Cotswold Style March 2014

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March 2014

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

Win

3 pairs of tickets for

LADIES DAY

TO DINE FOR...

Luxurious interiors for the hub of your home

Ready for the races?

Country chic & effortlessly elegant festival fashion

PAGES 19OURCELEBRATING FABULOUS FARMERS

Interview

Rachel Wyse “Being Ambassador is something, really rather special”

£2.50

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H A RD W O O D

20 O % FF

SH U TT ER S

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Interior Window Shutters • 20% off hardwood shutters • Bespoke made-to-measure service • Free consultation & survey Call Matt Blewett from shuttercraft Gloucestershire on 01242 649592 to arrange your free consultation and survey.

You will need to quote ‘SC14’ to receive 20% off.

www.shuttercraft-gloucestershire.co.uk

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contents

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CONTENTS

MARCH

10 Out and About

89 Grace & Glamour

149 It’s Only Rain

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

Grace gets Spring Fever and shows us how to revamp our wardrobe

Shane Duff doesn’t let the rain dampen his spirts

91 Laura Leigh

151 Benefits of a Vegan Diet

16 Real Life Festival ambassador and Sky Sports presenter, speaks to Natalie ahead of the races

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

47 To Dine For Sumptuous surroundings for the hub of your home

49 The Kitchen Luxe List Inspirational ideas to refresh and update your kitchen

Laura Leigh shows us how to be fit for the festival with her signature blow-dry’s

93 Brides With Cotswold Style We reveal more details about our boutique wedding fair taking place on 23rd March

101 Farming For The Future Our exclusive 19 page supplement discussing the future of farming

131 Stuffed Leg of Lamb Food writer, Shelle Duffin, gives us the perfect recipe to cook for Mothering Sunday

139 Bordeaux Undiscovered 74 Ravishing Races Seriously glamorous gold cup fashion inspiration

Nick Stephens of Bordeaux Wines reveals some interesting facts about Clairet wines

143 The Sense of Self Defence 85 Race Perfect Make-up artist, Samantha Davis, gives us her top tips for the races

MARCH 2014

Laura Milne reveals the challenges of a 21-day vegan diet

Paul Sutherland of Trojan Free Fighters offers invaluable selfdefence advice

153 Get The Body You Want Jodie Molyneux gives us three fat burning workouts to help us shift the pounds

162 Ready To Party Kate Justice discusses the good, bad and the ugly of the races

EVENTS 59 Ellenborough Park 102 Knight Frank 123 Blushes

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welcome Senior Partner Paul Bates 01242 220239 paul@stylemagazines.co.uk Partner Mark Cuzner 07917 821577 mark@stylemagazines.co.uk Business Development Manager Ian McRorie 07917 175919 ian@stylemagazines.co.uk Sales Executive Melanie Hall 07875 340840 melanie@stylemagazines.co.uk

Office Manager Carley O’Dea 01242 220239 office@stylemagazines.co.uk Production Consultant Hilary Collier 01242 220239 hilary@stylemagazines.co.uk

COMPETITION

Editorial Designer Nick Clark nclark@stylemagazines.co.uk

editor’s foreword

Welcome to our March issue!

Since March is one of the most exciting and stylish months in the racing calendar, we have put together a bigger issue for you and it is bursting with features. From fashion to farming and kitchens to self-defence – we have it all covered.

This month I caught up with the ambassador of the festival, Rachel Wyse (page 16), who is not only super stylish but is THE lady to talk to when it comes to sport. Rachel even gave you, our lovely readers, a few hints on who she will be possibly be betting on!

Gracing our Home Style this month, are a range of kitchens to dine for (page 47) - I couldn’t resist that play on words! Kitchens are often described as the hub of the home and with such exquisite design and particular attention to detail, we can certainly see why.

With the disastrous effects of the recent flooding, it has been reinforced to us all how important our landscapes are to our country. We have all felt an overwhelming concern for our landscape and have all witnessed the devastating effects this has had on many farms and communities. Rather timely, we have produced an exclusive supplement, Farming for the Future (page 101), sponsored by Agrii where we celebrate the custodians of our land. Cotswold Style proudly supports local farming and we are keen for the future of farming to be openly discussed and debated, so that we collectively work towards a brighter future for generations to come.

Of course, we can’t forget about our wonderful mums on March 31st.

Enter our competition with Hotel Chocolat (page 140) and be in with a chance of winning a ‘Chocolate Tasting Adventure’ for you and your mum – sure to earn you chocolate brownie points!

I hope you enjoy this issue and that you all have a marvellous March.

See you in April!

Natalie Letch, Editor, editor@stylemagazines.co.uk

WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS FOR LADIES DAY We have three pairs of tickets for this years Ladies Day at The Cheltenham Festival to giveaway courtesy of Cheltenham Racecourse To enter, email editor@stylemagazines.co.uk before the closing date of 31st March 2014. Our winners will be chosen at random and notified.

Good luck!

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

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

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

MARCH 2014

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t u o ab ENTERTAINMENT CHEF’S COOKS CLUB: ‘SOMETHING FISHY’ Wednesday 5th March

Having developed a fabulous following, The Montpellier Chapter Chef ’s Cooks Club returns. The hotel will be hosting another lunch sharing knowledge of cooking with guests followed by a delicious lunch. Starting at 11.30am, the event will offer an hours demonstration before a two-course lunch featuring a dish that has been demonstrated that day. The theme for March’s event is ‘Something Fishy’ and will explore all types of seafood for the spring season.

Tickets are priced at £15 per person and includes an hours demonstration followed by a two course lunch. Booking is essential as places are limited. To book call 01242 527788 www.themontpellierchapterhotel.com LUCY PORTER – NORTHERN SOUL Thursday 6th March 8pm Cheltenham Town Hall Tickets: £14 Concession: £12 www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk

THE BELL INN AT LANGFORD – SPANISH GOURMET LUNCHEON Friday 7th March The long awaited Bell Inn’s first gourmet luncheon will take place at 12 noon and to discuss the forthcoming Cheltenham Racing Festival, leading trainer Kim Bailey, the only trainer who has won the illustrious ‘Triple’ will give guests an insight into the form for each day’s racing. The event is to be hosted by Phillip Dougherty a well-known and respected chef who has won the National Sommelier of the Year Award and the prestigious Champagne Academy. A selection of mouth

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watering tapas accompanied by scintillating Cava and an incredible diversity of new sherry delights will start the proceedings, followed by an additional 3 courses and 5 wines. Cost just £69.95 per head. Please phone The Bell at Langford to book your place on: 01367 860249. www.thebellinnlangford.co.uk

CHELTENHAM CONCERT SERIES - THE HALLÉ Friday 7th March Sponsored by Butcombe Brewery The Hallé have delighted audiences for over 150 years and we are thrilled to welcome them back for what will be a truly memorable evening, led by inspirational conductor Andrew Manze.

7.30pm, Cheltenham Town Hall.

Tickets from £10. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk A FESTIVAL INSPIRED EXHIBITION Saturday 8th - Sunday 16th March During the week of the races, a very special exhibition is coming to the Brewery courtesy of Lisa von Hallwyl.

As well as a party atmosphere and live entertainment you can get some inspiration for the races as well!

Whether it’s the races or a wedding you’ll be sure to look stunning with Lisa’s creations. For more information visit: www.lvhdesigns.co.uk

WEDDING OPEN EVENINGS TO CHERISH THE DRESS WITH COCOA COUTURE Thursday 20th March & 24th April For newly engaged, those planning parties, Gala Awards or family celebrations you can meet international dress designer Cocoa to be inspired by her breath taking gowns - all designed and made for your individual style. 6pm8pm. RSVP for an informal evening in conversation with Cocoa. www.hotelduvin.com ROBERT NEWMAN’S NEW THEORY OF EVOLUTION Thursday 27th March Rob describes the controversy in evolutionary theory, explores how science demonstrates that DNA is not destiny and argues that co-operation

‘eat well, enjoy wine, love life’

www.montpellierwinebar.com drives evolution more than competition.

8pm Cheltenham Town Hall Tickets: £13. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk CHELTENHAM CONCERT SERIES – ORCHESTRA OF THE SWAN Friday 28th March The sensational Orchestra of the Swan are joined by skilled violinist, Tamsin Waley-Cohen, in a concert celebrating English music. 7.30pm Cheltenham Town Hall. Tickets from £10. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk

MOTHER SUNDAY LUNCH Sunday 30th March For an understated yet stylish Mothering Sunday treat, bring Mum to The Montpellier Chapter. The hotel will be serving a delicious locally sourced and seasonal 3-course Sunday Lunch followed by petit fours and coffee at only £23.50 per person. The lunch menu will feature traditional classics loved by all the family including Roast sirloin of beef, Roast loin of pork and for pudding a choice of desserts including bread & butter pudding with vanilla custard and white chocolate creme brûlée. An ideal opportunity for Mum’s to enjoy some essential bonding time with the family.

To book call 01242 527788. www.themontpellierchapterhotel.com CHEF’S COOKS CLUB: THE ART OF SWEET & SAVOURY BAKING Wednesday 2nd April Another wonderful lunch in which, The Montpellier Chapter chefs will share their tips and ticks of baking both sweet and savoury delights. Following which, guests will enjoy a sumptuous lunch featuring a dish that has been demonstrated that day. Tickets are priced at £15 per person and includes an hour’s demonstration followed by a two course lunch. Booking is essential as places are limited. To book call 01242 527788. www.themontpellierchapterhotel.com THE COTSWOLDS ART AND ANTIQUES DEALERS ASSOCIATION FAIR Thursday 3rd - Sunday 6th April The Cotswolds Art & Antiques Dealers’ Association Fair returns to the elegant

SPONSORED BY MONTPELLIER WINE BAR MARCH 2014

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‘eat well, enjoy wine, love life’

www.montpellierwinebar.com setting of Blenheim Palace. Now in its third year the fair has cultivated an ardent following of collectors, art consultants, museum experts, interior designers and the public alike making the fair a ‘must-visit’ destination. www.thecada.org

WEDDING OPEN EVENING WITH RUTH HUNTER Wednesday 9th April & 24th May Meet award winning Wedding & Event Planner, owner of Finesse Planning.

With years of experience and friendly guidance Ruth takes couples through their preparations allowing them to enjoy the journey towards their unique special day that friends and family will remember for years to come. Hear hints and tips from the planning expert – RSVP for pre booked tickets. 6pm -8pm. www.hotelduvin.com

FAMILY LET THE FLOWERS GROW’ – AN EXHIBITION OF PAINTINGS AND PHOTOGRAPHS AT THE GARDENS GALLERY, CHELTENHAM Wednesday 12th Tuesday 18th March The Spring brings an exhibition of photographs and paintings by Artist, Sian Hemmings, called ‘Let the Flowers Grow’. The exhibition will be held at the Gardens Gallery in Montpellier Gardens, Cheltenham during the Cheltenham Festival week. The exhibition aims to raise funds, through donations, for MacMillan Cancer Support and Kate’s Home Nursing. ‘Both of the Charities’, says Sian, ‘are close to my heart. ‘Let the Flowers Grow’ is a story of re-birth and the emerging new growth of Spring. It embodies the natural cycle of life’. The gallery will be open from 10.0 - 5.00 daily (Free entry). For more information contact info@gardensgallery.co.uk and sianhemmings@hotmail.com MEET BRITISH SCULPTOR NIC JOLY AT CASTLE FINE ART, CHELTENHAM Friday 14th March With a wicked sense of humour, British sculptor Nic Joly brings to life

paradoxical characters and scenes: small in scale but larger than life, they are simultaneously satirical and truthful in nature. Tackling the enormity of life’s trials and tribulations on a miniature scale, he applies an intimacy to his art that one might feel peering through the window of a stranger’s life. Whilst encouraging us to reawaken our sense of fun, Joly is quick to assert that his pieces are also a humorous deflection of “the madness that is all around us”. 6-9pm www.castlegalleries.com

PARAGON GALLERY “OPEN EVENING” Thursday 20th March The Paragon Gallery will be holding an open evening to introduce the large scale impressionist landscapes and cityscapes of Peter Hill. Pink fizz and nibbles from 6.00pm. Paragon Gallery, 4 Rotunda Terrace, Montpellier Street, Cheltenham www.paragongallery.co.uk BREADWORKS @ FOODWORKS! Friday 21st March

Come and join us on a fun bread making day. Learn the art of making your own delicious easy loaf to impress all your family and friends. Iryada Ashmore our Baker chef will also show you how to make the perfect plaited loaf and the most delicious Chelsea Bun you will ever have tasted! Course includes a delicious lunch with a glass of wine or two! 9.30 – 3.00pm. 01242 870538 or www.foodworkscookeryschool.co.uk

CHARITY CRAFT AND PAMPER EVENING FOR CHELTENHAM MAGGIE’S Thursday 6th March Maggie’s Cheltenham will open its doors

MARCH 2014 SPONSORED BY MONTPELLIER WINE BAR

to an evening of indulgence and relaxation. There will be various beauty, pamper, craft and cake providers offering delicious treats to enjoy. And it’s free entry! Maggie’s Cheltenham is a haven full of time, a lending ear and lots of laughter. They offer emotional and practical support, and escape for people living with cancer, their friends, family and carers. The stunning design of the building with natural wood, private pods and beautiful garden makes it an ideal place to benefit from the different support programmes and activities on offer. The heart of the centre is its kitchen table around which many cups of tea and tears of laughter and consolation have been shared. It’s a beautiful place. Everyone is welcome to the craft and pamper evening which starts at 7.30pm. There will be mini taster treatments, shopping and a chance to have a go at some crafts. Massage, nail art, cakes, scarves, jewellery and much more. The evening will be relaxing, fun and just what you need after a days work. So treat yourself! The evening is free entry (donations welcome).For more information about Cheltenham Maggie’s including its location, please visit www.maggiescentres.org/ourcentres/maggies-cheltenham/

THE MOST AMOUNT OF FUN YOU, AND THE FAMILY, CAN HAVE IN A ONESIE… Sunday 9th March The Onesie craze has hit Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice. At 10am in Pittville Park the Sue Ryder will be holding a Runsie to raise funds for the hospice. A 1 km and 5km fun run for the whole family... in your onesie!

Whether you are new to running or training for something larger the ‘Runsie’ will be a great morning for the whole family with children’s entertainment, the music man and the most outrageous onesie competition. Sue Ryder touches so many peoples hearts all over the country especially those in Cheltenham.

They work tirelessly to help so many patients and families. Help support them. To register for the event please go to www.sueryder.org/runsiefun or call Zoe on 01242 246285 for information.

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t u o ab CHURCHDOWN MALE VOICE CHOIR FEATURING KATE BENNETT, SOPRANO Friday 11th April In support of ‘Make a Difference Campaign’ at PITTVILLE PUMP ROOM. Unreserved seating £10 each, available from the LINC office.

7.30pmCall 0300 422 4422 or visit: www.lincfund.org RAISE A WEDGE FOR WINSTON’S WISH Thursday 8th May

The Winston’s Wish annual golf day will

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be taking place at Brickhampton Court Golf Complex, Gloucester. A team of 4 is just £200 and includes a challenging round of golf with prizes, a superb rolling carvery buffet, lots of competitions and an exciting raffle and auction. To sign up please visit: www.winstonswish.org.uk/event/rais e-a-wedge-for-winstons-wish/ Email: community@winstonswish.org.uk or Tel: 01242 515157 2014 3 COUNTIES CYCLE RIDE – LINC’ING TOGETHER TO BEAT CANCER Sunday 15th June Starting and finishing at Tewkesbury Rugby Club. A choice of 64km or 32km route. Entry fee: In advance £15 per adult £10 under 16. On the day £20 per adult £15 under 16. Registration and sponsor forms can be downloaded from the website or are available from the LINC Office. www.lincfund.org

IT’S TIME TO TAKE ON CANCER AS RACE FOR LIFE 2014 LAUNCHES IN GLOUCESTERSHIRE Women are being urged to join forces and show cancer whose boss by signing up to Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life 2014 which is now open for entries.

GLOUCESTER • Gloucester Park on Sunday June 22 at 10am. This year we have a new 10k event for ladies who want to double the challenge.

CHELTENHAM • Cheltenham Racecourse on Sunday June 29 at 11am.

CIRENCESTER • Cirencester Park on Sunday July 20 at 11am. This year we have a new 10k event for ladies who want to double the challenge.

‘eat well, enjoy wine, love life’

www.montpellierwinebar.com

SPORTING EVENTS WOMEN BIG IN BUSINESS LADIES LUNCH Wednesday 5th March An inspirational lunchtime event for women in business to meet and network.

Guest speaker interviewed by Jill Douglas. Tickets £30 +VAT. 12pm – 2.30pm www.gloucesterrugby.co.uk to book your tickets.

GLOUCESTER RUGBY DARTS EVENING Saturday 15th March Doors open at 7pm. Join Eric Bristow and Keith Dellar, along with the Gloucester Rugby players at Kingsholm Stadium for a darts evening hosted by Russ Bray. Not one to be missed tickets are priced at just £25 and includes sausage & mash and a pint.

Visit: www.gloucesterrugby.co.uk to buy yours.

And that’s why Cancer Research UK is calling on women of all ages, shapes and sizes, to defy this dreadful disease by entering the Race for Life 5 & 10k events. Event organisers are issuing the rallying cry ‘cancer, we’re coming to get you’ and urging women to sign up as soon as possible.

Money raised through Race for Life allows Cancer Research UK’s doctors, nurses and scientists to advance research which is helping to save the lives of men, women and children across the South West.

Cancer Research UK receives no Government funding for its ground-breaking work but with help from the people of Gloucestershire, the charity intends to bring forward the day when all cancers are cured.

Kelly continued: “Race for Life is an amazing way to celebrate life but also remember those who have been lost to the disease. There are over 200 cancers and we won’t give up until we find cures for them all.”

To enter Race for Life today go to www.raceforlife.org or call 0845 600 6050.

Every hour, more than three people are diagnosed with cancer in the South West*. Everyone is special, everyone is somebody’s mum, dad, brother, sister, friend or colleague.

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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’

www.montpellierwinebar.com GLOUCESTER RUGBY V NEWCASTLE FALCONS Saturday 22nd March

MARCH EVENTS AT THE MONTPELLIER BRASSERIE

For March, the regular Jazz Brunches which take place on the first Sunday of each month heralds the welcome return of one of the South West’s most entertaining female saxophonists and singers, Kim Cypher with her own unique ‘funky’ style of playing! Brunch with cool jazz on Sunday 2nd March.

To celebrate Cheltenham Race Week the Montpellier Brasserie are transforming their first floor gallery into a Champagne & Oyster Bar from 10th - 14th March, with a birds eye view of Montpellier too! Cornish oyster washed down with Bollinger, what better to relax and have fun after a day at the races.

Ticket prices start from just £15 for adults and £5. Don’t miss out. 3pm www.gloucesterrugby.co.uk or call 0871 871 8781 option 2 to get your tickets.

Sunday 30th March is that one day of the year you can really spoil your Mum! The Montpellier Brasserie have designed a special Mothers Day menu with mouth watering dishes including Smoked Salmon mousse with split green bean salad, olive tapenade & crisp breads, followed by traditional Roast Pork with crackling, served with duck fat roasted potatoes, pork mustard & herb stuffing, & seasonal vegetables and to finish Sticky Toffee pudding With vanilla ice cream & salt caramel. You can choose from a Starter & Main at £19.50 or with dessert £24.50 per person.

To book your family a table, please call on (01242) 228 666 or view the full menu online at www.themontpellier.co.uk

SUSTAINABLE MOTORING AND STUNNINGLY ATTRACTIVE There are times when it is possible for your head and your heart to agree – times when the right thing to do also feels really great – times when the righteous do inherit the earth. Commercial has made one of those times happen in the Cotswolds.

seconds. When it comes to interior space, the cabin can fit five comfortably, plus two additional children’s seats in the boot, and, as well as a cavernous boot, the Model S has a second boot under the bonnet

Commercial, whose reputation for finding new environmentally responsible solutions to business problems is second to none in its industry, has proved once again that to be responsible not only makes business sense but is also great fun.

The business services firm has huge credibility in the world of low carbon vehicles, based on its pioneering work such as its current programme rolling out the world’s first delivery fleet using biodiesel and hydrogen powered vans, and has utilised this to bring to the region the latest innovation in zero carbon transport from Silicon Valley, the Tesla Model S.

Tesla, the brainchild of PayPal co-founder Elon Musk, is arguably the most disruptive influence in the car industry in a generation. The company launched the Model S into Europe last year, having won a string of awards in the US, and has quickly become a best seller. The secret of its success is the way that it has made sustainable motoring stunningly attractive.

In terms of performance, it out accelerates a Dodge Viper and Aston Martin Rapide, reaching 60 mph in under four and a half

sizeable enough for holdalls or sports bags.

The instrumentation betrays its Silicon Valley heritage, with the dashboard dominated by a vast 17 inch touchscreen with an interface which responds like an iPhone and includes always online integration with Google maps. This truly is a car for the generation for whom the mobile phone is a necessity. Being fully electric, the car responds quietly and instantly, which combined with the capacious rear space and smooth ride, makes the car feel almost limousine like.

MARCH 2014 SPONSORED BY MONTPELLIER WINE BAR

The Tesla Model S is the latest in a line of sustainable innovations that Commercial has been involved in. The business services company, which has grown by over 50% since it launched its sustainability journey in 2006, Commercial offers a CarbonNeutral service for Office Supplies, IT Services, Interiors and Print across the Cotswolds and nationwide, delivering cost and environmental savings that support the growth of its clients. Commercial trialled the Tesla Model S as part of its own fleet, and also showed it to a number of other businesses across the region. The business case for the Tesla Model S, like many of the sustainable innovations that Commercial has introduced into its own business and its clients, is compelling. Not only is the car a great vehicle to drive, it can offer significant financial savings over its competitors.

Using solar powered charging points, like Commercial installed at its head office in 2013, can mean that the running costs for an electric car can be tiny.

Commercial will be holding a day as part of the Cheltenham Science Festival which will explore how to use sustainable innovation to drive business success, using case studies from leading companies, and to see how you can benefit from this too.

Complimentary tickets are available to Cotswold Style readers. To register your interest, email csrday@commercial.co.uk

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

Fresh flowers delivered to your door.

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

Please call us on 01242 517777 for orders and enquiries

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

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PAUSE

Don’t put your life on pause waiting for treatment.

Get affordable pay-as-you-go healthcare when you need it.

At Nuffield Health Cheltenham Hospital you don’t need health insurance to get the treatment you need.

Pay-as-you-go makes private healthcare far more accessible.

You may also be eligible for interest-free credit†, so you can spread the cost without paying more.

Our prices are totally transparent, inclusive of all costs and guaranteed.

That means no hidden surprises.

We promise to meet any comparable price.* Our relationship with you doesn’t end when you walk out of our hospitals – there are no time limits on your aftercare.**

Get in touch. And get on with your life.

01242 802 984 nuffieldhealth.com/cheltenhampay5 Download our free guide online †Subject to status. Terms and conditions available on request. *Not including private patient units at NHS hospitals. Local area defined as within 15 miles of the Nuffield Health hospital. We will match against written quotes only. **Where possible, we promise to assist you to receive any follow up advice, treatment or care that is clinically required from your Consultant for as long as you may require it. If a prosthesis is used as part of your treatment this is guaranteed for the manufacturer’s official lifetime of that prosthesis. ”Clinically required” indicates where further intervention and/or monitoring of a patient’s condition is deemed necessary as a direct result of surgical intervention.

NH_CH_CotswoldStyle

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“Being Ambassador, is something, really rather special” Natalie Letch catches up with super stylish, Rachel Wyse, ahead of the Cheltenham Festival PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID RIERA Ok, I admit, my knowledge of sport is not that great. I enjoy sport, however, I could not even begin to tell you what the ‘offside rule’ is (if that’s even what it’s called...!) and I certainly wouldn’t choose the ‘sport’ category in a game of Trivial Pursuit. Yet, I know a certain lady who would indeed do all of the above, and more. That lady is, of course, Sky Sports presenter Rachel Wyse.

Having grown up around horses and at one point being an equestrian show jumper for Ireland, being given the title of ‘Ambassador of the Cheltenham Festival’, was a wise move. I also adore horses, so I was very keen to find out where Rachel’s love of horses and in particular, equine knowledge derived from; “Horses were literally my life. Each day after school,weekends and summers were spent with them. I got up to a reasonable level and eventually got to the stage where my dad said that I either needed to go to college and further my education or fund myself; so, off I went to college and here I am at Sky Sports.

So, you could say it changed a little bit along the way”. Rachel added, “It was always competing and show jumping for me; Mum was the link between me and the horses - she drove me everywhere. I even had Robbie Power’s dad, the jockey, train me. All I wanted to do was work with horses and look how it’s all changed.

But it’s so lovely now with Cheltenham, and being involved by being Ambassador.

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“...every time he gets to this racecourse and gets onto the track, he starts shaking and just wants to be let go and race off. They really are fascinating creatures”

I try to keep in touch with all things like that, as much as work allows me”.

Rachel and the racecourse are the perfect pairing. Having once been a European show jumper for Ireland, Rachel’s equine knowledge is vast. As a result, her experience on Sky Sports and her model looks, made Rachel the ideal choice to become Ambassador. The fashion line, Cheltenham Tweed, has even featured Rachel as part of their advertising campaign and will also judge ladies’ fashion during ‘Ladies’ Day’.

The races are synonymous with style, which results in many women planning their race outfits long in advance. I’m sure you will agree, Cheltenham stands out from the racing crowd, channelling a country chic look opposed to the traditional Ascot style. In preparing her outfit Rachel says, “I’m definitely a lastminute girl. I know I will wear the Cheltenham Tweed coat, which is absolutely stunning. It’s in true traditional Cheltenham racing style, country and sophisticated. Oh, and warm, I must be warm. I always dress for the weather”.

So, how did Rachel become affiliated with Cheltenham Racecourse? Well, you may recall the charity race that took place in 2010. Alongside eleven other riders, Rachel took to the racecourse on Silent MARCH 2014

Joe as an amateur jockey, where she raised over £60,000 for Cancer Research UK. Rachel recalled being put forward for the event; “You know a lot about horses and that you have jumped for Ireland, so we want you to ride for a charity race at the festival – I’d never been to Cheltenham before, although my dad has been every year for at least the last decade. My family were there to support me, yet I didn’t do that well... in fact I came last! Thank goodness for the horse, Silent Joe, who got me there safely – we silently went through the finish line together!”

Rachel then told me an amusing story about meeting the majestic horse, Imperial Commander, (left and above) when she was appointed ambassador.

Revealing the trials and tribulations of wearing high heeled boots and a Cheltenham Tweed coat; she said, “Imperial Commander came down to the racecourse, which was amazing. I remember the guy who walked the horse around in the pre-parade ring.

We ventured onto the racecourse for a photograph, and as soon as the horse got onto the racecourse he just started shaking; I turned to the guy and said, “Is he alright” – I was a bit concerned that what I was wearing wasn’t ideal to be holding a racehorse wearing but he said

“No, no – he will be fine he just knows exactly where he is; he knows that this is Cheltenham. As every time he gets to this racecourse and gets onto the track, he starts shaking and just wants to be let go and race off. They really are fascinating creatures.”.

Our time running out, I couldn’t let Rachel leave without getting some tips on who to bet on; “This is shameful, but we do a ‘10 to follow’ in the office at the start of the year, but I’m third from the bottom on the list. But, I’m going to let the cat out of the bag here; the trainer, Richard Fahey, is actually below me, so it’s not that bad”, she laughs. Luckily, I did get a couple of tips on how to pick a good horse; “A horse that I have been watching is, ‘My Tent Or Yours’, and someone like A.P McCoy is an inspiration. I tend to look at the jockeys and see what horses they are picking.” - I Well, I know who I’ll be betting on now!

Rachel’s excitement over the upcoming festival was evident; “Being Ambassador is really something quite special.

Cheltenham has lots of good memories for me, and hopefully a lot more to come.

Overall it’s the best racing in the world”.

We couldn’t agree more Rachel. CS

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SPRING OPEN MORNINGS Juniors (Ages 3-11) Friday 7th March

Seniors (Ages 11-18) Saturday 8th March All welcome

Admissions@rendcomb.gloucs.sch.uk

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education Aithrie Airthrie is a long-established, co-educational independent day school for pupils aged 3 – 11 years. Within a nurturing and supportive environment it provides all the necessary care and facilities for pupils to become well-rounded, confident individuals. A very high teacher/pupil ratio means that children are individually encouraged to maximise their potential and participate in all aspects of a broad curriculum; thus every child feels valued for their unique talents.

The driving force of Airthrie is the Principal, Beth Sullivan, whose many years of dedicated leadership supported by experienced, highly committed staff ensures that the school’s philosophy of ‘Stability, Happiness and Motivation’ enables children to grow in confidence and experience. Pupils are clearly at ease, yet work with focus and diligence enjoying a daily variety of academic and extra-curricular activities. Performing Arts feature highly as well as daily sport activities which benefit from using the adjacent, extensive Cheltenham Ladies’ College sports facilities.

Airthrie’s all-round success is proven by the excellent results achieved at age 11 in entrance examinations to a variety of both independent and grammar schools.

The Principal warmly invites interested parents to contact Airthrie to arrange a personal visit and tour of the school.

Our new website is www.airthrie-school.co.uk 01242 512837 GL50 2NY

Beaudesert Film club, castle-making and vegetable art bring learning to life at Beaudesert Castles are like catnip to many children, and at Beaudesert Park School in Minchinhampton, History teachers are making the most of the natural attraction by staging castle-making workshops for pupils.

The workshops are just one of many initiatives at the school constantly being devised by teachers to help fire the children’s imaginations and give them opportunities to see their subjects from different angles. The school has 400 pupils aged 313, and the castle-making workshops give older children a hands-on chance to travel back in time and explore how castles were designed, used and built in the UK and beyond. Screenings of films such as Zulu and The Dam Busters at the school’s History Film Club also help pupils see the wealth of intrigue and interest which History can hold.

Younger children in Year 1 (aged 5-6) recently enjoyed practicing numeracy, literacy and research skills in innovative ways as part of their “Growing” topic. As well as learning about the concept of growth in people, animals and insects, they studied how to grow healthy, nutritious vegetables. During one of the sessions they made their own edible art! (See photo).

Beaudesert’s next Open Morning is between

MARCH 2014

School Report...

Celebrating your schools’ successes across Gloucestershire

9.30am and noon on Friday 21st March. All very welcome at this and other times. www.beaudesert.gloucs.sch.uk

Cheltenham College As part of the Sixth Form Curriculum, Cheltenham College students take part in an Independent Project allowing students an opportunity for truly independent academic work, requiring their own decision-making, evaluation and justification.

College places great value on promoting preparation for life beyond the Sixth Form.

The Independent Project enables students to develop the vital attributes of self-motivation and proactivity along with developing the thinking skills required for success at university; thinking logically about arguments and showing sensitivity for counter-arguments, presenting information in a balanced and persuasive fashion and adopting a critical stance towards sources. Essential practical skills practised include researching and referencing, essay planning and handling language and data in a precise way.

The areas researched by College students highlight not only their independent study, but also their creativity, breadth of thought and pursuit of excellence, with topics as diverse as sustainable architecture, French literature, clothes design, HIV, Perestroika and endurance cycling.

Cheltenham College Preparatory School Children and staff at Cheltenham College Preparatory School have produced a book of mouth-watering recipes to raise funds for WellChild's work with seriously ill children and their families across the UK. Favourites such as Spaghetti Carbonara, Cannelloni and Margherita pizza are included in the book along with ‘Yummy Biscuits’, Lemon Drizzle Cake, Fruit Smoothies and many more.

Among the recipes are some from WellChild Award winner Johnathan He, aged 6, from Milton Keynes who has a passion for cooking.

Johnathan, has a rare genetically inherited immunological condition which meant he could not eat for a long time and spent a lengthy period in hospital.

The children at Cheltenham Prep have more plans to raise money for WellChild this year, including a school-wide Bake Off taking place after Half Term.

Kings School For parents seeking to nurture their child’s talent, a visit to The King’s School, Gloucester, is a must.

With around 530 girls and boys aged three to eighteen it is the leading Independent Day School in the area. Set within the Cathedral grounds it offers an inspiring setting and provides

a special sense of identity and powerful community unlike any other.

Increasingly families from across the county are sending their children to King’s where academic excellence, small class sizes, outstanding pastoral care and a unique ‘Keystones’ approach, seeking to identify and develop individual talents and personal qualities, is offered.

Monday to Friday a varied academic and extra-curricular programme including music, drama and art is presented, with a vibrant culture of endeavour and scholarship, which has flourished since the foundation of the school in 1541. While the school’s twelve dedicated bus services enable access countywide.

Come and discover what is waiting for your child on our next Open Morning, Saturday 22nd March, 10am – 12pm. Further information is available from the Registrar on 01452 337337, registrar@thekingsschool.co.uk, www.thekingsschool.co.uk

Rendcomb College An alternative to racing?

Those that are looking for a midweek break from the racing will want to stop off at Holy Apostles’ Church, Charlton Kings on Wednesday 12 March 7:30pm for an evening of French choral and orchestral music.

For the main event a musical collaboration of the Rendcomb College Choir, The Capella Singers and Gloucestershire Symphony Orchestra will perform Faure’s Requiem. Additionally the musicians will perform Faure Pavane, Messiaen, Debussy, and Derufle.

The Cheltenham String Quartet perform a composition Siegried’s Lament written by Rendcomb College’s Head Boy, Howard Auster.

He hopes to take a degree in Composition at Leeds University to become a composer / songwriter.

Head of Music at Rendcomb College, Dom Franks, commented ‘This kind of collaborative performance is so valuable for young musicians.

It allows them to gain valuable opportunity to perform in public and alongside professionals, in a very public setting. Everyone has been working incredibly hard in preparation for this great night.’

Tickets are £8/£6 concs in advance (£10/£8 on the door) Boxoffice@rendcomb.gloucs.sch.uk Rendcomb College, Cirencester is an HMC/ SoH co- educational independent day and boarding school for pupils aged 3- 18. Generous Scholarships and Bursaries available. Please visit www.rendcombcollege.org.uk for more information. CS

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3 – 13

Open Morning

Open Morning

Saturday 15 March at 9.30am

Saturday 8 March at 9.30am

Please contact the Admissions Office on 01242 706810 or visit www.cheltenhamcollege.org to register

Please contact the Admissions Office on 01242 552697 or visit www.cheltenhamcollege.org to register

Since

OPEN

1541

Open Day Saturday 22nd March 10.00am-12.00pm

Come and see how we nurture talent. For further details please contact the Registrar Sharon Bird: registrar@thekingsschool.co.uk

www.thekingsschool.co.uk

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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

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Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

The Park, Cheltenham A superb detached villa successfully blending Georgian elegance with contemporary styling and situated in this highly desirable area of Cheltenham. The property has been subject to recent upgrades and new decoration throughout. EPC: C

Guide Price: £765,000

5 bedrooms 3 bath/shower rooms 3 reception rooms Kitchen/breakfast room Double garage and parking Garden

Hamptons Cheltenham Sales 01242 639414 | Lettings. 01242 639416

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Century Court, Cheltenham This beautifully presented apartment is situated on the third floor of this well managed and secure development, which offers convenience and security together with contemporary style living. EPC: E

Guide Price: £599,995

MARCH 2014

3 bedrooms 3 bath/shower rooms Drawing/dining room 2 balconies Lift and video entry phone Under ground parking

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Minsterworth A substantial, characterful family home set in landscaped gardens Built circa 1600, a well-appointed five bedroom detached house set in mature gardens measuring 0.75 acres. The property has been extended and much improved over the years by the current owners and offers kitchen/breakfast room, first floor sitting room, attic study, attic bathroom and garages. EPC: F

ÂŁ475,000 Naylor Powell Gloucester www.naylorpowell.com docks@naylorpowell.com 01452 398010

Churcham Delightful four bedroom detached Cottage originally dating back to 1631.

Set in a lovely rural location with large mature grounds in excess of 1 acre, this property enjoys far reaching rural views and is privately positioned. The cottage has a wealth of character features, including exposed brick wall, ceiling beams and wood burning stove. EPC:G

ÂŁ399,950 Naylor Powell Newent www.naylorpowell.com newent@naylorpowell.com 01531 828970

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Westbury on Severn A modern country house with magnificent views set in 3 acres.

Designed by a local architect, this extremely well presented property built in 2002 provides well planned accommodation extending to over 4500 sq. ft. EPC: D

O.I.R.O ÂŁ1,000,000

5 Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms Detached 5 car Garage Block with Gym and steam room Self-contained 2 bed apartment

Naylor Powell Gloucester www.naylorpowell.com docks@naylorpowell.com 01452 398010

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hot property

Montpellier Grove Cheltenham Setting the scene: An elegant recently renovated family town house in the heart of the Suffolks, close to shops, boutiques, cafes and restaurants. The house is beautifully presented and well-proportioned and is arranged over four floors with parking and a west facing lawned garden.

Why we love it: Set back from the road behind wrought iron railings and a landscaped front garden, this attractive town house is presented in excellent decorative order having recently been the subject of a sympathetic renovation. Whilst not listed, great care has been taken to retain and enhance period features, the sash windows, fireplaces and cornices being of particular note. On the lower ground floor, the kitchen has been opened up to create a superb and very practical family/living area. There is a separate utility room and access to both the garden and the drive at the side of the house. Upstairs, each of the bedrooms are comfortable doubles, with one en suite and a generous family bathroom. The west facing enclosed garden to the rear is walled and secure. There is off road parking for two cars and additional permit parking is also available on Montpellier Grove. EPC Rating D. Guide Price: ÂŁ1,200,000 Details: Knight Frank, Cheltenham. 01242 246959. tom.banwell@knightfrank.com www.knightfrank.co.uk/che100054

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hot property We have experienced a very active year within the apartment market in 2013/14, with buyers travelling from all over the world to be a part of the ‘Cheltenham’ lifestyle. This influx of buyers come not only for the variety of renowned Cheltenham festivals, diverse shopping and café culture, but for our classic and quite stunning architecture.

Currently we have over 100 cash buyers registered on our database looking for a bolt-hole in Cheltenham. Whether it’s a ‘lock up and leave’, a desire for a simpler lifestyle or Londoners requiring a part-time home whilst their children are schooled here, the demand for apartments has never been stronger.

The number of national house builders choosing Cheltenham as a location to invest in new developments of luxury apartments, is perhaps proof, that demand is expected to continue rising.

We have been privileged to sell a diverse range of apartments over this last year; A fabulous two bedroom apartment within Victoria Mansions, forming part of a landmark building on Malvern Road, received a huge amount of interest and sold within 97% of the guide price. Another example was a unique first floor apartment on Suffolk Place which had a balcony overlooking the heart of Montpellier, and sold quickly within 94% of the guide price.

The quality apartment market in Cheltenham is in such high demand that we have assigned Hayley Wilks, who joined Knight Frank, Cheltenham in 2009, to specialise in this coveted area of the market. If you are considering selling your apartment and require property related advice, or would like a free, confidential market appraisal, please contact Hayley.

With a comprehensive knowledge of our applicant database, whether they are local, national or international, she will find the right buyer for your property. hayley.wilks@knightfrank.com.

01242 246959. www.knightfrank.co.uk/cheltenham

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4 Royal Parade, Bayshill Road Cheltenham Setting the scene: 4 Royal Parade is a charming and beautifully presented, Grade II Listed, town house, which is believed to have originally been The Bayshill School. The property has been lovingly maintained and retains many original features including cornicing, ceiling roses, working shutters and marble fireplaces with gas fires.

Why we love it: The accommodation, which is arranged over four floors comprising of: Entrance hall, drawing room, dining room, kitchen, cloakroom. Three bedrooms, two bathrooms.

Lower ground floor comprising: Sitting room, study, kitchen, boiler/utility room, bedroom and bathroom. Double garage and offers the potential for a self contained apartment to be created on the lower ground floor if desired (subject to the necessary planning consents being obtained). Outside there is a decked and paved garden to the rear which has a pedestrian access to parking for two cars to the rear and one car to the front and double garage. All in all, 4 Royal Parade is a delightful Cheltenham gem.

Guide Price: ÂŁ1.295 million Details: Savills, Cheltenham Tel: 01242 548 000 www.savills.co.uk

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Churcham Setting the scene: Ideal equestrian property set in grounds extending to approx. 9 acres, with excellent range of outbuildings and a four bedroom detached bungalow.

Why we love it: Woodend is a well presented property comprises; Porch, hall, sitting room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, utility, shower room, 4 bedrooms, bathroom, large attic storage. There is a quadruple detached garage block, large enclosed barn, 2 loose boxes and tack room. The formal gardens surround the property with adjoining paddock. Churcham is a small village in the Forest of Dean district just south of the A40 Gloucester to Ross-on-Wye road. The main attraction of the village is the Church of St Andrew, which is one of the most distinctive Churches in the area. The village also offers Churcham Primary School which is a group one community school. The property provides an ideal opportunity for further updating and development subject to obtaining consent. EPC: D O.I.R.O ÂŁ700,000 Naylor Powell Gloucester www.naylorpowell.com docks@naylorpowell.com 01452 398010 36 COTSWOLD STYLE

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The Chalet , Down Hatherley Setting the scene: A substantial three bedroom detached bungalow occupying a two acre plot in a semi rural location with planning permission granted to provide two additional bedrooms.

Why we love it: The Chalet is located in a semi rural position backing onto farmland and located only a fifth of a mile from the Tewkesbury Road just north of Longford. The bungalow already benefits from three well proportioned bedrooms with planning permission granted to provide a further two. There are two very useful outbuildings in the grounds and we have no doubt that the bungalow will be of interest to someone looking for a most comfortable modern property with land located just a couple of miles north of Gloucester. Guide Price: ÂŁ575,000; Naylor Powell Gloucester; www.naylorpowell.com; docks@naylorpowell.com; 01452 398010

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Christchurch, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire Setting the scene: A recently converted and spacious 2 double bedroom apartment on the first floor of this handsome detached villa close to Christchurch on the south west side of Cheltenham. EPC: C Why we love it: Fulshaw Lodge has been sympathetically and beautifully converted with modern advantages including two en-suites, separate storage room, electric gated entrances and a lift. This first floor flat is bathed in natural light from the large sash windows and enjoys views towards Montpellier. The reception room offers open plan living/entertaining; the fitted kitchen has integrated appliances and quality fixtures and fittings.

Guide Price: ÂŁ410,000 Freehold; Details: Hamptons, Cheltenham.

Tel: 01242 639414 cheltenham@hamptons-int.com MARCH 2014

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The Kitchen Factor The kitchen has become the hub of most homes; it’s not only a place to store and prepare food but is now very much a space for family congregation and entertaining, so it needs to be a place we can relax and feel comfortable, says Rachel Vincent

The Comfort Factor…

There are some key factors that you need to consider when updating your kitchen and dining area. I would say that warmth is one of the first and most important factors, as no matter how attractively decorated or brimming with the latest gadgets a kitchen is, it will never be a place you want to spend time in it it’s cold. Make sure you have adequate heating whether that be utilising a real fire or wood burner (if you’re lucky enough to have either in your kitchen) install underfloor heating or simply make

sure the space is well insulated. Natural weave rugs are great in kitchen and dining spaces as they add texture and warmth and soften hard surfaces.

Kitchen and casual dining chairs are probably one of the hardest things to get right; there are hundreds on the market and most of them extremely uncomfortable, so try and look at designs that have a shaped lumbar support. Some of the most comfortable kitchen and casual dining chairs I’ve found are based on the designs of Charles Rae Eames, which are incredibly comfortable to sit on and yet contemporary in design.

The addition of a sofa or comfy chair, room permitting, can create a more relaxed atmosphere. You can visit made.com for contemporary and reasonably priced furniture. If space is an issue, using textured fabric at the windows or upholstered kitchen chairs can work equally well in creating warmth in an otherwise utilitarian space.

“One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well” Virginia Woolf

Far left: Eames chair £272 from The Conran Shop Left: Manhatten industrial chair £179.95, www.notonthehighstreet.com Below: Windsor Button Back Chair, £399, www.notonthehighstreet.com

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interiors

Right: London Ornamental clock £85, www.notonthehighstreet.com Far right: Bird Cage Lamp £395, by Graham & Green

The Colour Factor…

The colour you paint your kitchen and dining space should depend on the amount of natural light the room gets.

As a rule, if the room has a lot of natural light work with light, neutral colours that will emphasize the space. Try “Joa’s white” or “Archive” by Farrow and Ball.

If the room has limited natural light, go darker and create depth and warmth where you don’t have the benefit of light.

Try darker colours with warm undertones such as “Blazer” or “smoked trout” also

by Farrow and Ball. Warm things up further with some interesting lighting; Graham and Green have a fabulous collection of eclectic table lamps that will add interest and create a warm glow.

For an immediate and money saving update to your kitchen try painting your units in a contrasting tone to the walls, light tones working well against darker walls and vice versa, make sure you prep well and then use a decent water based eggshell for a soft and light reflective finish.

Above: Bed Springs memo board £75; Below left: Personalised coffee print £10; Below right: Solid oak personalised wine rack £155 all from www.notonthehighstreet.com

The Cool factor…

You can create a far more casual and relaxed environment by adding some fun accessories into the mix; walls can become galleries when you frame family pictures or artwork. Companies such as “NotontheHighstreet.com” sell a diverse range of eclectic interior accessories to brighten up your space or better still scout your local antiques fairs for something truly original.

A home is for living and a kitchen should be a place to enjoy sharing food and conversation in a warm, comfortable and vibrant space! CS

MARCH 2014

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

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interiors

From the ‘Vintage’ collection at L’una Design

TO DINE FOR Sumptuous surroundings for the heart of your home

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home style Right Serving and salad bowls, www.kozihaus.co.uk

Quooker Boiling Water taps; From £650, Pitville Bathrooms

Above: Rainbow 24-piece cutlery set, £180, House of Fraser

Above: Richlite Paper Worktop, £POA, Pitville Bathrooms Left: Kitchen range, www.obsedian.ws

The Kitchen LUXE LIST

Above: Ca’Pietra Flooring, £POA Montpellier Marble Below: Tube squeezers, £10.50, Kozihaus

Play with colour, design and twists on everyday items to refresh your kitchen and dining area

Left: Fabia Luxia, £3,099.99, Pitville Bathrooms Right: Glass cabinet, £POA, from a selection at www.parlourfarm.com Left: Kitchen, £POA, from a range at www.parlourfarm.com Below: Nisah dinnerware,£12, House of Fraser

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For further information about our products and services or to arrange a free, no-obligation ‘in-home’ consultation.

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Masterpiece Interiors are a leading specialist in kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms in Gloucestershire. Whether you require design and installation or supply only, we offer the same expert service throughout

As a family run business we thrive on providing a service to all our customers no matter how big or small the project.

We offer all the trades under one roof from fitting kitchens, to electricians, plumbers, decorators, fitting boilers and building projects.

Kitchens: The decision to plan a new kitchen is the beginning of an exciting process but can often be accompanied by uncertainty. This is all made easy with our professional service and extensive range of quality products from leading manufacturers. Specialists in SieMatic, Schmidt, Gaggenau & Neff and worksurfaces by Corian, Silestone and natural Granite are just part of our spectacular kitchens portfolio.

Bathrooms: Modern developments in sanitary ceramics, bathroom furniture, baths and showers have made the bathroom a place of escape and a haven for relaxation. Market leaders in our field sets our designs apart from the rest offering a fantastic range of branded products. Bathrooms by Duravit, taps by Axor, Hansgrohe and MARCH 2014

a selection of tiles and accessories are a small part of the choices on offer.

Bedrooms: We offer the latest system bedroom furniture and continental beds

by German manufacturer Geha who have been manufacturing innovative quality and affordable bedroom furniture for over 80 years. From an arrangement of fitted wardrobes tailored to suit your individual needs to an accompanying range of free-standing furniture and bed collections we offer affordable bedrooms for the UK market at extremely competitive prices.

Planning & Design: Our design and consultation service is completely free and we offer expert craftsmen and project management throughout each tailored project. As our clients projects are very diverse, our ranges and experience cater for all types of renovations anything from a contemporary new build through to a country renovation.

When planning for a new kitchen, bathroom or bedroom many customers do not know where to start. We offer our clients a bespoke package designed to suit

individual needs. Using our highly sophisticated computer aided design programme ‘20-20 Fusion’ will give a realistic visual of their newly designed kitchen, this helps customers selecting colour schemes and layout options.

Installation: Whether customers require a complete installation service by our inhouse team of tradesmen or supply only, our specialist designers can arrange to carry out a free of charge no obligation site survey and consultation to discuss projects. We are happy to work with customers requirements whatever the case and will provide a full specification with installation advice for their own installers or contractors from start to finish, should they choose not to use our complete package. CS Contact Us: We supply across Gloucestershire and beyond, with clients in London and nationwide.

If you would like to get in touch to discuss any future projects then please feel free to visit our Gloucester showroom, take a look at our website or give us a call on 01452 310451.

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Kitchens designed around your lifestyle

Cheltenham Showroom: Unit 800 Ashville Business Park (Behind Mercedes Benz) Commerce Road Cheltenham Road East Staverton, Glos GL2 9QJ Tel: 01452 554 455

Cirencester Showroom: 14 Global Business Park Wilkinson Road Cirencester, Glos GL7 1YZ Tel: 01285 643 071

Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 9 am – 5 pm Saturday 10 am -2 pm

www.benchwoodkitchens.co.uk

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interiors

BENCHWOOD KITCHENS We take a closer look at one of Gloucestershire’s top kitchen suppliers...

Benchwood Kitchens are renowned for their high levels of craftsmanship and have been continuously impressing local customers with their high levels of workmanship and service ever since.

Their flagship store is in Cirencester, however, they now have a second showroom between Cheltenham and Gloucester, located at Ashville Business Park, which is situated behind Mercedes Benz.

Rob Woodward, owner of Benchwood Kitchens, has been in the industry for over a decade and in that time has gained a wealth of experience making and fitting a broad range of kitchens and cabinetry. Essential additions to the team are father and son cabinet makers, Graham and Michael Redfern, have over 50 years experience between them in bespoke joinery and kitchen manufacture.

The business has grown to keep up with demand; last year the workshop space doubled and a specialist paintspray booth was created on site. A third cabinet maker joined the team last summer and a fourth is due to

MARCH 2014

start in the Spring. Even last year, Benchwood became a part of the Guild of Master Craftsmen; further assuring customers of Benchwood's quality products and services.

So, how exactly does Benchwood Kitchens set themselves apart?

Owner, Rob, explains why...

QUALITY Our kitchens are defined by their quality.

We use traditional joinery and cabinetry techniques with premium materials and components. Each item is handmade in our modern workshop by skilled craftsmen.

CHOICE Forward thinking and dynamic, we also work with modern materials such as high gloss solid acrylic and exotic timber veneers. Applying the same exacting standards, these kitchens are crafted alongside our traditional range.

SERVICE As well as designing your perfect kitchen, we take pride in fitting it,

ensuring all aspects of the design are realised. We have an established team of reliable tradesmen for all plumbing, electrical and building works. Projects run smoothly because we are in control of the trades and schedule jobs carefully.

VALUE We are more affordable that you might think. Our workshop and showroom are modest and practical. We focus on what we believe to be important craftsmanship and service; and avoid unnecessary frills.”

Don’t believe him? Here are a selection of testimonials that will prove it!

“Fabulous kitchen put in last year by Rob and the team. Completely love it.

Makes me smile every time I go into it!

Thanks guys” Mrs Young, Bicester

“Absolutely gorgeous. My new Benchwood kitchen has changed my life.”

Mrs James, Coates

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The Class Behind Glass When Gary Jones started Glevum in 1984 in a unit in the old Morelands Factory on the Bristol Road, Gloucester, he could have had no idea what the business would grow into. Glevum are celebrating 30 years of improving peoples’ homes this year and we took this opportunity to look back at some of the highlights and speak to Gary Jones, the founder and Managing Director Firstly Gary, tell us about what it was like getting the business off the ground?

Difficult! Of course starting out, nobody had heard of us and we had to quickly build a reputation for quality so that people would trust us with their home improvements.

When you’re starting out you are also everything from marketing, sales, surveying, installation and customer service – all rolled into one.

What made you start the business in the first place?

UPVC windows were starting to become popular and the concept of replacing your old wooden windows was just starting to emerge. I could see the potential of the market and thought there was a gap for a firm that placed a strong emphasis on quality in everything it does.

How would you describe your business philosophy?

That is a tough one. I think never resting on your laurels and always looking to improve and looking for

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Gary Jones

new opportunities. My approach to customers though is something that I stress to every new employee that joins Glevum – we’ve got to where we are by ensuring that we do each and every job as we would want it done on our own home.

When you mention the word Glevum, people often sing the 0800 33 22 55 number, how did it get to this point?

Persistence, consistency and a likeable, memorable style. I think we were one

of the first advertisers on what was then Severn Sound, now Heart. I’m a firm believer in the need to remind people that you are there, so that when they are ready to replace their windows and doors or want a conservatory then our name is the first they think of. Our customers today have grown up with us and the young and not so young all have their favourites and sing along to them.

Believe it or not, we have had people call up and ask for copies of their favourite ads on CD. Which is why when we were developing our new website, we decided to include the ability to listen to and download some of the classic adverts.

You see the familiar Glevum vans everywhere, how big is the firm now?

We reckon that over the last 30 years we have improved over 40,000 peoples’ homes. Gloucestershire is still our home, but we do a lot of work in the neighbouring counties and have customers as far afield as Cornwall.

A lesser known fact about us is that we do a lot of work now for major house builders such as Taylor Wimpey, David MARCH 2014

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interiors

Wilson, Persimmon Homes, Charles Church and Croudace. We believe we are now one of the country’s leading new build installers of conservatories.

Glevum do a lot more than windows and doors now, don’t they?

Absolutely. We’ve always partnered with carefully chosen firms for products like blinds, conservatory furniture and hot tubs, but more recently we have diversified into other areas with new firms in the Glevum Group. A few years ago we noticed that the prime driver for people choosing to replace their windows and doors was to cut their energy bills. It was this that prompted us to establish Glevum Energy who began by installing solar PV and solar thermal and also now do air source and ground source heat pumps as well as energy efficiency consultancy for householders and businesses.

Around about the same time we helped set up Proton which specialises in gates and access control systems for private houses and commercial premises.

Whichever part of the Glevum Group people come to they will experience the same ethos of a quality product, expertly installed and good customer service.

One of Glevum’s more unusual claims to fame is of helping to launch Melinda Messenger’s career, tell us about that...

You’re right. She featured in our ever so slightly controversial advertising campaign “The Class Behind the Glass”.

MARCH 2014

The posters were so popular with some people that they stole them from bus shelters, which attracted the attention of national newspapers and well and truly put Melinda in the media spotlight.

Over the 30 years that Glevum has been trading what would you say are the highlights?

I guess overall the fact that we have grown to the size we are and that so many people have chosen us for their windows, doors and conservatories.

By way of individual highlights though I think being chosen as the Conservatory Company of the year and being the first window and door installer to achieve a new standard for window and door installation in new build developments rank amongst my top moments. As was becoming the first window and door installer to become Green Deal accredited by the industry body FENSA. What are your hopes for the future?

I’m very excited about the potential for the future. Over the next few years, thousands of people who had early double glazed windows and doors will be looking to replace these. The introduction of triple glazing is making the case for replacing old double

glazing very compelling.

We’re investing in the future with better technology to make our customer service even better. For example, our website allows people to request instant quotes, callbacks or appointments. It’s packed with information and works just as well on tablets and mobile phones.

We’ve just scratched the service when it comes to the complete offering we can provide of making peoples’ homes more energy efficient.

We’re passionate about our home county of Gloucestershire; the more people we do work for, the more jobs we can create and the more work we can in the community as well. CS Contact Glevum on 0800 33 22 55 or visit their website www.glevum.co.uk

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

style event 3

2

4

7

6 5

8 9

Ellenborough Park hosts Business Club Breakfast

s s

Ellenborough Park hosted the newly formed Cheltenham and Cotswold Business Club founded by Geoffrey Clifton Brown MP for the Cotswolds and Alex Chalk prospective Conservative MP for Cheltenham. Guest speaker was Sir Christopher Gent Chairman of GlaxoSmithKline plc who talked about his career and aspirations for the Conservatives in the next election. The breakfast was well attended by 94 delegates.

Photography by Angus Bethune 10

11

12

13

15

14 16

1 Amanda Toner and Mark Shorten. 2 Charlie Palmer and Richard Wilkey. 3 Simon Thomas and Dave Lewin. 4 Andrew Burgess and Mark Nicholls. 5 Alex Chalk, Sir Christopher Gent and Geoffrey Clifton-Brown MP. 6 Angela Edwards and Suzanne Hall-Gibbins. 7 Richard Knight and Tom Warwick. 8 Bev Hawes, and Jennifer Barnard. 9 Beverley Hodson and Philip Dancey. 10 Angela Brown and Sue Blanchfield. 11 Helen Higgs and Simon Thomas. 12 Alex Chalk talks to guests. 13 Sir Robert Wright and Jules Venus. 14 Ian Thomas, Adam Khodabaccus and Hendrix Green. 15 Alex Chalk. 16 James Grant and Paul Crooke.

MARCH 2014

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art

NO ORDINARY ART

No fashionable shopping district would be complete without an art gallery and Montpellier has no less than five. The most recent addition is The Paragon Gallery in Montpellier Street, described by one art lover as “a breath of fresh air”.

Paragon Gallery offers a huge diversity of contemporary art from over forty local, UK and international artists.

Painters range from pure abstract to classical still life with expressionist nudes, impressionist landscapes, cubism and street art all represented. There is sculpture in bronze, resin, wood, steel and glass.

Owner Eleanor Wardle is clear about her vision. “We are a gallery that people can take time to browse and enjoy, have a coffee or a glass of wine, return to again and again, and always see something fresh and new. We look for extraordinary art and often find artists with a fascinating story to tell. The space is easily organized into a number of zones where the avant-garde can hang comfortably near the classical and where every corner turned reveals a new surprise.”

Trying to pick out three artists for special Above: “Blue Cup” oil on canvas. Iryna Yermolova mention is challenging Right: “Lover, Leader, Mother” bronze. Nick Rainey but we would name Paul Oz, Iryna Yermolova and Nick Rainey Iryna Yermolova as well worth a visit. might have been Paul is Cheltenham-based but very described last year much an artist of the world. He paints or the year before portraits and other subjects in his own as “emerging” but she inimitable style, piling on the paint to has now very much create rich, deep texture and huge visual emerged. Her work is impact. He has painted commissions widely exhibited in the for Sir Alex Ferguson, Theo Paphitis and UK and abroad, and Sir Bradley Wiggins, and is the licensed was recently selected artist for Formula 1, Star Trek, Mr Men

by The Royal Institute and Thunderbirds. of Oil Painters to hang Paul’s painting “Legmo” (above), was in The Mall Galleries inspired by Olympian Mo Farah and the in London. artist’s childhood love of Lego. He aims Brought up in Ukraine, Iryna now to create a sense of explosive energy, lives in rural England where she paints movement, expression and 3D effect landscapes, seascapes, nudes and still life. …big, bold, powerful paintings that stop Her work is full of colour, light and you in your tracks. Paul’s paintings are in energy and shows a love of the palette private collections across five continents. knife over the brush.

MARCH 2014

Above: “Legmo” oil on canvas.

Paul Oz

Nick Rainey has a Masters degree in Product Design from the Royal College of Art and a number of prestige design awards to his credit. Only recently did his creative interests turn to sculpture, with his first work immediately selected by the Royal Academy for their South West Autumn Exhibition.

Nick works mainly in bronze and bronze resign but has also experimented with other media including cement. His subjects tend to be figurative, often contemplative and always inspiring. CS

Paragon Gallery is at the South end of Montpellier Street and is open Tuesday to Sunday. Within a few hundred yards are The Montpellier Gallery, Brian Crosby Fine Art, the Loquens Gallery, the Gardens Gallery and Parabola Arts Centre.

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MARCH 2014

Gardening Camilla Bassett March 14:Layout 1

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gardening

A Spring Rainbow Iris was the goddess of the rainbow in Greek mythology, she was also my wonderful grandmother and is my beautiful god-daughter who celebrates her first birthday this month.

She is also a whole host of flowering plants from the blousy summer perennials standing to attention with style and charisma, to the dainty reticulata that enter our lives in spring. Like pixie umbrellas these little bulbs sprout their blade like foliage and blooms when their more familiar summer relatives are still wrapped up in the warmth of their rhizomes!

These valuable spring bulbs add a splash of electric colour to a border, pot or rock garden. Although they can flower year after year, they are a little tricky and need to be planted deeply in order to have a chance.

Better sometimes to treat as annuals and replenish on a yearly basis. They also need good drainage; so adding grit to the soil is wise.

The species Iris reticulata has deep rich purple/blue flowers with a characteristic Iris yellow strip, however, there are other interesting options available by looking at reticulata cultivars and hybrids: Iris reticulata ‘Katharine Hodgkin’ was born in Gloucestershire, bred by Mr Anderson of Lower Slaughter. She entered this world just ahead of the fashionable 1960s, and her dress illustrated an eyecatching new colour scheme much in line with the large fashion houses of the time. Unusual dark blue veining on creamy light blue petals and yellow markings ensured that this young lady was awarded an ‘AGM’ (Award of Garden Merit) by the RHS years later.

Mr Anderson named her after the wife of his horticultural friend and rare bulb enthusiast, Eliot Hodgkin, MARCH 2014

Cheltenham based media horticulturalist, Camilla Bassett-Smith, is looking forward to welcoming her latest project ‘The Patch: The Big Allotment Challenge’ to our BBC screens soon. This month she takes a bow to a heraldic springtime hero...

The Iris

“It is believed in folklore that the three standards represent faith, hope and valour – all of which in my case are needed for bulb survival when my squirrels come digging!” and thanks to Mr Anderson sharing bulbs with other gardeners, today this dwarf bulb is easy to find. I came across a very good supply at Hoo House Nursery near Tewkesbury recently and Ashwood Nurseries in Kingswinford are also worth a visit.

‘Harmony’ is a traditional choice; with bright blue (almost gentian like) blooms with a golden yellow and white streak, a good multiplier and easy to grow. For an ice blue white addition, go for reticulata

‘Natascha’ – dainty and subtle against the bright eye-catching blues, or for a new introduction: reticulata ‘Blue Note’ has proved popular with the horticultural elite. Dark violet-blue with white feathered markings that jump out at you, this in one for ‘keeping up with the Joneses’! (Or should that be Titchmarshes)?!

The name ‘reticulata’ refers to the netted pattern that appears on the bulbs with the three inner petals often referred to as ‘standards’ and the outer petal-like sepals being known as ‘falls’.

It is believed in folklore that the three standards represent faith, hope and valour – all of which in my case are needed for bulb survival when my squirrels come digging!

Ancient Egyptians considered the Iris to be a symbol of power, an acknowledgement still bestowed upon it today by the French whose national flower it is. In fact, the famous fleur-de-lis emblem is said to be based on the Iris or Lily, and it’s not hard to see the Iris resemblance.

The flowers also inspired William Morris and Vincent Van Gogh to put paint to paper. If you’re not quite up to their artistic level, why not let nature be your canvas and pop in some Iris reticulata this March? CS

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Stoves & Fireplaces Cheltenham

Gas & Electric Fires | Fireplaces, Hearths & Mantels Multi-fuel & Woodburning Stoves | Accessories | Installations

Showroom

78-80 Winchcombe Street | Cheltenham GL52 2NW

01242 241164 | www.cheltenhamstoves.com

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MONTPELLIER We take a closer look at the businesses that grace Montpellier in Cheltenham...

BAKERS FINE JEWELLERY Family Business Established 1741

Please come and have a look at our amazing range of Antique, Vintage, Bespoke and contemporary designer jewellery. Find out what else is happening in Montpellier that's worth a visit we spend most of our time here and we love it!

We are ready to welcome visitors for one of Cheltenham's most important weeks of the year and we have plenty of gold for the Gold Cup Festival. Don't overlook Montpellier and, we believe the best jewellery in the Cotswold's when it comes to choice and value for money Bakers Fine Jewellery should be made compulsory.

During Festival week we are offering a complimentary ultrasonic jewellery clean.To view just a small collection of what we have to offer look at the Race Ready feature on pages 82 and 83 of the magazine. www.bakersfinejewellery.co.uk BLUE

At Blue we always try to offer something different for our customers. Our brands include Rundholz, Lilith, Annette Gortz and many others, all offering a unique and chic fashion statement.

We manage to source a wonderful selection of designs to suit all ages, shapes and personalities that simply cannot be found in the High Street shops. Why not come and browse through our lovely clothes and accessories and let us help you find something really special?

Blue has a very welcoming atmosphere and our friendly staff love helping customers to experiment with the amazing styles we have in stock.

Our opening hours are 10am -5.30pm

every day Monday to Saturday and we very much look forward to seeing you. www.bluewomensclothing.co.uk BRASSERIE BLANC

5 O'Clocktails - A different cocktail each week at only five pounds from 5pm 7pm Fish Fridays - Fresh fish specials every Friday lunch and dinner Ladies Supper Club first Thursday of every month at 6pm, £14.50 per person for a glass of wine, a main course and dessert* (from LSC menu) with a guest speaker or demonstration Gentleman' Supper Club - last Thursday of every month at 6pm, £14.50 per person for a glass of wine, a main course and dessert* (from LSCmenu) with a guest speaker or demonstration Monday Mingler nights coming soon - Glass of wine and nibbles £7.50 per ticket A La Carte menu Starters from £4.90 Mains from £9.90 and desserts from £4.95 Raymond Blanc Set Menu lunch and 5.30-7pm £11.50 2 courses £13.95 3 courses.

After 7pm £14 for 2 courses £16.45 3 courses Sunday Roasts : Beef Sirloin, Rack of Pork, Haddock & Chips £13.80 (add starter or dessert for £2.45 from RB set menu) Add a 175ml glass of House Red or White Wine for only £2.50 www.brasserieblanc.com COLOGNE AND COTTON

Cologne and Cotton is situated at No.8 Montpellier Arcade, with a wide variety of beautiful linen, the softest pure cotton quilts you will find we work with the most talented designers and craftsmen throughout England and as far as India to bring you the best and most exquisite fabrics prints and designs.

They also have a Nursery and Children’s range

with gorgeous soft toys, nightwear and linen.

Perfume, candle and scents for the home is an ever more popular range, and also have now launched a Children’s perfume to accompany the children’s toiletries which is a huge success. French Country Chic meets innovative home furnishings with splashes of color. ‘Bengal Quilts’ – This is Indian craftsmanship at its very best, all hand blocked and sewn onto the softest 100% cotton, these lovely blue and white quilts will look stunning in any bedroom.

‘Beautiful Blue Crane Wash bags made in England by brilliant textile designer Emily Burringham.’ www.cologneandcotton.com BRIAN CROSBY FINE ART & FINE FRAMES

Brian is a real creative. Professional experience and qualifications in Photography/Graphic Design/Watercolours and Oils/Art Publisher/ Photo Restoration/and Classical singing! Plus a PGCE Art and Design teacher. He was formally in Cheltenham as Westend Framing, but moved to Montpellier to sell his own art and other selected artists who include Toby Moate, Anna Martin, Ursula Sutton and Roger Davies.

Brian also produces commissions, as he is an Architectural artist of some note (Blenheim Palace, Hampton Court Palace).

This stands him in good stead to produce unique paintings of properties. Another area Brian particularly enjoys is rejuvenating faded or damaged photographs. Photo-Restoration.

Limited Edition Prints called "The Cheltenham Collection", some of which can be seen here, are available." www.facebook.com/BrianCrosbyArtand Frame

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advertisement feature Photography by www.georgiephairphotography.co.uk

the heartbeat of Cheltenham NATURALLY NORDIC BEAUTY

Take an opportunity to escape, relax and unwind in our tranquil salon.We use the highest quality skin care treatments from the best and most established names in the industry. We will personalise treatments to suit your individual needs. Our leading brands are Dermaquest, Environ, Youngblood, OPI and Nouveau Lashes.

If you have any questions or you want to book a *free skin care consultation or treatment please contact us or pop in to our salon!

Complimentary consultations up to ½hr Late night openings Wednesdays till 8:30pm Complimentary drinks: coffee, tea, detox tea, wine, cold drinks etc.

Student discount 10% (including Saturdays) www.naturallynordic.co TIFFINS OF CHELTENHAM ‘Proudly serving Montpellier’

Tiffins is a friendly cafe in the heart of Montpellier serving breakfasts and lunches to eat in or take away. We also have fantastic fresh coffee and teas that can be enjoyed with a selection of delicious cakes and pastries.

Tiffins also provides support to local businesses with corporate buffets either delivered or collected depending on requirements and hosts business breakfasts and lunches in our cafe.

Out of hours we also provide a location for meetings, birthday parties etc.

Testimonials: “Gem of a tea room in the centre of Cheltenham” “5 of 5 stars. This cheerful tea room/ coffee shop is the perfect place to watch the world go by –- and the coffees and tiffin cakes are gorgeous. Perfectly placed in Montpellier with gorgeous views over the park, this is a great place to meet

friends for coffee and a snack. Highly recommended” tiffinsofcheltenham@gmail.com

TOKYOTATTOO®

TOKYOTATTOO® is a tattoo lifestyle culture with an avant-garde studio, the first of its kind in the UK. TOKYOTATTOO® Now offers exclusive clothing from Bolongaro Trevor; Male/Female SS/14 collection. www.bolongarotrevor.com The shop is located in the heart of Montpellier; the most attractive and fashionable area of Cheltenham. The studio is like no other providing an ultra modern, hygienically clean, bright & luxury environment.

The aim is to create a brand of tattoo shop that will change the perception of tattooing for both artists and clients in the UK. We provide bespoke and unique art for our clients by expertly skilled tattoo artists, specialising in a range of styles covering all tattooing techniques; Black/Grey, Colour, Sailor Jerry/Traditional, Realistism/Portraits, Asian/Japanese, Māori/Tribal & Script.

Our team will change from time to time as we have amazing guest artists from around the world, keeping waiting lists down and variety for the customer.

Parking is available right next to The Courtyard on Montpellier Street. Permanent Make-Up/Cosmetic tattooing is available at the shop by Daphne J Smith, from Cosmetic Contour www.cosmetic-contour.com TOKYOTATTOO® have exclusively partnered with Look Amazing Skin & Laser Clinic, for all your tattoo removal needs. www.lookamazing.com YO!SUSHI bento boxes available to our customers in the shop. www.yosushi.com www.tokyotattoo.co.uk CS

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WRINKLES? SUN DAMAGE? BLEMISHES? PIGMENTATION? OPEN PORES? DULL COMPLEXION?

Pop in for a FREE SKIN CARE consultation!

We can make such a difference with our latest skin care technology brands DERMAQUEST, ENVIRON and ADVANCED NUTRITION PROGRAMME and YOUNGBLOOD!

2 Queens Circus, Montpellier, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL50 1RX

OFFERS: *3 X SKIN PEELS £100 (Feb-March normally £151) *ALL LASER HAIR REMOVAL COURSES (Buy 1 get 2nd half price) *WALK IN SPRAY TANS FRIDAYS £18 (Normally £25)

Open Monday - Saturday

18 Montpellier Courtyard |Cheltenham GL50 1SR

Tel. 01242 517575 www.naturallynordic.co.uk

10% OFF any Hobbs Hou se Bread purcha se

(to 30th March

2014)

FREE

Cup of coffee with any single purchase over £4

(to 30th March

Lilith

On presentation

2014)

of these vouche rs

Tiffins is a friendly café and sandwich bar based in the heart of Montpelier providing locally produced freshly made breakfasts, snacks and lunches to takeaway or to enoy in our newly renovated 1st floor café. Our recent change to Hobbs House Bakery with bread on sale from Saturday 15th February is a fabulous addition to Montpellier.

Lunn

Runholz

01242 571 901 www.bluewomensclothing.co.uk 68

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Tiffins of Cheltenham Ltd | Tel (01242) 222492 General enquiries hello@tiffinsofcheltenham.co.uk Pre-orders / bookings orders@tiffinsofcheltenham.co.uk

www.tiffinsofcheltenham.co.uk

tiffinsofcheltenham

@tiffinsofchelte MARCH 2014

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東京刺青 TOKYOTATTOO® You Bring The Canvas, We Provide The Art™ No.13 The Courtyard, Montpellier, Cheltenham GL50 1SR Please contact 01242 300165, hello@tokyotattoo.co.uk www.tokyotattoo.co.uk www.facebook.com/tokyotattoo www.twitter.com/Tokyo_Tattoo www.instagram.com/tokyotattoo

MARCH 2014

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Art gallery with original paintings, limited edition prints and excellent art driven framing. Restoration of antique frames, oil painting cleaning.

Photo restoration of damaged or faded photographs another specialty.

We can deliver locally and are happy to offer free consultation visits in connection with art or framing for your business or home.

14 Montpellier Arcade, Montpellier Street, Cheltenham GL50 1SU

T: 01242 262444 | Mob: 07930 212282 info@westendcustompictureframes.co.uk

www.facebook.com/BrianCrosbyArtandFrame

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Our expert in house jewellers will carefully assess your items and offer premium prices for all your gold and silver jewellery. We are particularly keen to purchase antique, art deco and vintage gem set pieces. If you have any items that you wish to sell, please contact us with the details or simply bring them into the shop where we will make you an offer to purchase or exchange without obligation.

Jewellery Repairs

We offer a comprehensive range of jewellery repairs from a simple ring resizing to a complete restoration. We have a extensive stock of replacement gemstones which helps us to keep our prices competitive and we are happy to give a detailed quote for any repair, large or small.

We also offer a full and professional, in house jewellery maintenance service including ultrasonic cleaning, hand buffing, polishing and rhodium plating.

Bespoke Design Jewellery

Why not remodel an item you no longer desire to create something unique and personal. We offer a complimentary consultation, so whether you prefer state of the art digital design or traditional interaction with our goldsmith and gemologist. You may have your own ideas or drawings, together we can create the perfect piece for you.

Valuations for Insurance and Probate

We tailor our insurance valuations to your requirements. Whether its a detailed photographic record or a simple written document, we can provide the service you require at a cost that suits.

MARCH 2014

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Our range of jewellery and antiques is larger than you would imagine and if you are looking to source quality diamonds, precious stones, gold, silver or time pieces then look no further. We also have a large range of one off pieces and individually styled antique and vintage jewellery items. www.carolynkingart.com A3498

A3491

18ct Yellow and White Gold Old-cut Diamond Three Stone ring. Approximately 1.50ct of Diamond | £2,750.00

18ct White Gold Emerald-cut Aquamarine Art Deco style ring with Princess and Baguette-cut Diamonds | £3,500

A3220

AX073

A1537

A2285

18ct White Gold Brilliant-cut Diamond 18ct Yellow and White Gold Emerald and Diamond Single Stone ring with Princess-cut Diamond Cluster ring. Oval-cut Emerald with Diamond shoulders. Diamond weight 1.01ct , SI1 weight approximately 1.10ct | £3,950.00 Clarity and I Colour. | £4,950.00.

A2415

A3495

18ct White Gold Brilliant-cut Diamond 9ct Yellow and White Gold Step-cut Emerald. 18ct White Gold Emerald-cut Diamond ring. Platinum Sapphire and Old-cut Diamond Three Single Stone ring. Total Diamond weight Emerald weight 1.83ct. | £995.00 Diamond weight 1.21ct , VVS1 Clarity Stone ring. Sapphire 2.19ct with a Diamond 0.84ct, SI2 Clarity and H Colour. | £3,750.00 and K Colour. | £4,950.00 weight of 1.01ct | £7,950.00 A2387

A3306

18ct White Gold Emerald-cut Diamond with Round Brilliant-cut shoulders. Diamond weight 1.17ct, VS2 Clarity and L Colour. | £4,950.00

14ct White Gold Opal and Diamond Cross Over ring. Oval Opal with approximately 0.75ct of Diamonds | £1,950.00 A1662

A3301

A4750

18ct Yellow and White Gold Sapphire and 18ct Yellow and White Gold Cushion Shaped Diamond Cluster ring. Oval-cut Sapphire with Ruby and Diamond Cluster ring. Ruby Round Brilliant-cut surround. | £3,500.00 estimated as 1.97ct with approximately 0.33ct of Diamonds | £3,500.00 A0695 A1001

18ct White Gold Diamond Fancy Single Platinum and Old-cut Diamond Single Stone 14k White Gold Princess-cut Diamond Eternity Stone ring. Diamond weight 1.08ct with Leaf ring. Approximately 1.50ct of Diamond, SI1 ring. Approximately 1ct of Diamond. | Design Diamond-set shoulders | £5,950.00 £2,500.00 Clarity and G Colour. | £1,950.00 I3411

G3826

18ct White Gold Brilliantcut Diamond pendant. Seven Diamonds with a total weight of 2ct, VS Clarity and G Colour. | £5,950.00

A3297

9k Rose Gold and Silver Pearl and Rose-cut Diamond Flower ring. | £475.00 G2908

18ct White Gold Opal and Diamond Cluster pendant. Oval Opal surrounded by Brilliant-cut Diamonds. | £7,950.00.

18ct Yellow and White Gold Emerald and Diamond Cluster earrings. Emerald 1.54ct with a total Diamond weight of 0.90ct. | £2,500.00

We specialise in secondhand and antique watches clocks & pocket watch time pieces including a range of premier brands such as

Rolex, Cartier, Omega, Breitling, Longines and many more...

WE BUY WE SELL WE PART EXCHANGE

18 The Promenade, Cheltenham GL50 1LR | Tel: 01242 524519 | info@promenadeantiques.co.uk

www.promenadeantiques.co.uk

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30 YEARS OF FABULOUS HAIR

Cheltenham 01242 226644

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GOLD CUP

Glamourous Glamour, Excitement, Anticipation, Horses, Finest Fashion, Media...

It’s March in Cheltenham!

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fashion

New to 2014, Ladies Day at Cheltenham Racecourse has a “Fashion Zone”, created within the ‘Tenters Village’. Here is where fashion exhibits will be displayed and modeled and Ladies will be invited to enter a “Most Stylish Lady” competition where the 1st prize will include £5000 worth of Joules vouchers!

March at the Cheltenham Racecourse is the time when hours of horse breeding, breaking and hard training all come to an adrenaline filled head. Four days of jump racing gathers crowds of people together in Cheltenham from all around the nation bringing with them an electric atmosphere buzzing with excitement and anticipation.

Known as “The Festival” this is the largest of many festivals held in Cheltenham and is truly a beautiful sporting occasion that you do not want to miss!

For every woman attending The Festival, wearing the finest fashionable clothes, most unique hat and having MARCH 2014

their hair and makeup beautifully styled is a must. Ladies Day at The Festival has a well-known reputation for its vast crowds creating an ocean of interesting millinery and dresses often surrounded by the clicks and flashes of photographers.

To book your tickets today go onto: www.cheltenham.co.uk

Rachel Anthony (Top) is wearing Flutter Mono disc hat with lace and Swarovski butterflies (£180.00). Hair styling was to a smooth chic side bun that complimented Rachel’s 1950s inspired make-up.

The jewellery and clothing used for Rachel matched with the whole look: Nour Earrings £35.00, Ruksana Bracelet £28.00, Ruksana Necklace NF215 £49.00. Rachel’s dress was ‘Catwalk Collection Black Dress’ (£550.00) and the shoes were ‘High Head Zip Detail Platform Ankle Boots’ (£229.95).

Leah Axl (top left) was wearing the ‘Black Beauty’ hat, which was hand created using felt (£240.00). Leah’s hair

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fashion was also styled around the hat as to compliment its uniqueness. The beautiful ‘half up half down’ style, brought to one side, with curls brushed into waves coming down model’s shoulder speaks for itself. The Make-up applied to Leah balanced with the balck and white beauty of the hat by adding a little bit of colour but keeping the overall look slightly dramatic with smokey eyes. Leah’s jewellery and clothing worn was: ‘Ruksana Necklace’ NX901 (£18.00) ‘Bracelet Grey stones’ (£28.00). The dress was: Bernshaw “Opal“ dress (£375.00) finished with ‘Aftershock Faux Fur Tie Brown Cape’ (£65.00). The shoes were ‘High Fitted Knee Boots’ (£249.95). CS Hair & Make-up: Monika Vrublova - Bridal Dream 07513 552108 www.wedding-bridaldream.com wedding.bridaldream@gmail.com

Photography: David Savill Photography 07719 746223 www.davidsavillphotography.co.uk david@davidsavillphotography.co.uk Millinary: Lisa von Hallwyl Millinery www.lvhdesigns.co.uk lisavonhallwylmillinery@gmail.com Hats also available at: www.cotswoldbride.co.uk Clothing and Jewelery: Feva Cheltenham www.fevadesigns.com Shoes: Keith Scarrott Shoes www.keithscarrott.co.uk

Models: Leah Axl www.leahaxlmodel.co.uk leah_patricia@hotmail.com Rachel Anthony clarkrachel21@yahoo.co.uk

Venue: Ellenborough Park Hotel www.ellenboroughpark.com info@ellenboroughpark.com

This article was organised and designed

by Monika Vrublova and David Savill Red Carpet UK info@redcarpetuk.com

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fashion

Milling it over with GEORGIE PHAIR PHOTOGRAPHY

LVH

Lisa von Hallwyl talks “looking hot to trot” for the races that perfect look, whether dramatic or a classic sheek look, such as Feva and Keith Scarrot.

Remember, that I can create your own bespoke hat that will be sure to compliment whatever outfit you choose. Pictured, (left and above) are two of my new designs, taken at Cheltenham Racecourse. CS

With the Cheltenham Festival just around the corner, ladies and gents are getting ready for that all important week of fashion, betting, plus a fair few beverages! So, I thought it a good idea to consider what the best things to wear so that you cast the attention of passersby in the crowds and what to look forward to during the most exciting week in Cheltenham’s calendar. I’ll also offer a few tips for events to look out for, making the week even more special for you.

Photography by Nikki Kirk Photography, Hair and makeup by Bella Bridal Hair by Sandie,Victoria Jones MUA. Models Charlotte Hamilton and Iris Fitzgerald, Jewellery supplied by Beards.

FASHION

The Cheltenham Festival gives us the chance to embrace the fashion surrounding the Cotswolds – with the whole world watching! Picking that key outfit for the races, and most importantly, Ladies Day can be a bit of a task; especially if you’re looking for that statement hat to ‘wow’ the crowds!

Charlotte Hamilton (pictured above), who won last years Ladies Day, kept a classical look with a fur collar stole, trimmed coat, stylish fashion tights, shoe boots and a cloche hat.

I caught up with Charlotte to find out what her thoughts are for this coming festival - with the intention of finding out her secrets behind her winning look!

“To start with I had two outfit choices; one was monochrome with white coat, and the other was the outift I wore on MARCH 2014 M

EVENTS TO WATCH OUT FOR the day. You need comfort and warmth as it can often be rather cold and yet I wanted to dress elegantly with a classic twist. I decided not to wear tweed even though I adore it. But I could still spice up my outfit and put a tweed spin on it.

To be honest, the chosen outfit I wore was completely last minute.

This year I love bold, vibrant colours like pink and deep fuschias - they go with so much in my wardrobe. I love the pink Trilby that I got from you! I’m even considering going out of the winter into the spring with a splash of colour.”

There are a few shops in the Cotswolds you are definitely guaranteed to find

During the Festival Week there will be racing themed activities. Visit the Brewery for drinks and live entertainment and why not take a look at a fantastic new exhibition embracing fashion and heritage at the races as you enter the complex created by myself and Georgina Rose.

March 12th is Ladies Day, so why not indulge with a glass of champagne at Beards, whilst donning your hat and having a few pictures taken ready for the races, courtesy of the Cotswold Style.

Plus don’t forget I’ll be showing off some amazing headwear to compliment Beards incredible jewellery pieces during race week.

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Get prepped for race week, Available from Cheltenham, Worcester, Bristol

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Gorgeous You! Tuesday 28th March | 6pm to 8pm

An evening of indulgence for the fashion conscious: Gorgeous Hair would love to give you an opportunity to learn the tricks of the trade. Learn how to create your salon look at home with ps from our experienced stylists, including using the correct products for your hair and style Gorgeous refreshments Rae

www.gorgeous-hairdressing.co.uk www.gorgeous2you.com 9 Suolk Parade, Cheltenham GL50 2AB

01242 250303

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TWEED - HERITAGE - COUTURE - STYLE

" ! $ "!" with a modern twist

! " ! ! # ! 07852 175 006

### ! " % ! " $ ! !

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fashion Chamomile White Ladies Shirt, Dubarry, £59; Ladies Long Tweed Jacket Blackthorn Connacht Accorn, Dubarry, £399; Ladies Tweed Skirt Fern, Connacht Acorn, Dubarry, £149; Womens Boots Longford Black, Dubarry, £335 Jewellery: Sterling silver gold plated hinged bangle and ring set with semi-precious gemstones prices vary from £130 to £180 for rings and £720 to £820 for bangles

Race

Ready CREDITS Styled by Georgie Phair; Photography and Video www.georgiephairphotography.co.uk; Location The Country Estate of Rosemary King; Production Assistant Annabel Box; Hair Stylist Jo Herve of Vallenders; Hair Assistant Jerome Herve of Vallenders; Make Up Georgia Whitely; Video Camera Operator and Technical Assistant Henry Buxton; Horse ‘Early Agreement’; Groom Rachael Kearney; Models Missy Malone and Ilir Halilaj; Clothing designed and supplied by Liberty Freedom and Dubarry, boots by Dubarry. Ralph Lauren, Hugo Boss and Superdry supplied by Cavendish House; Boots by Dubarry; Jewellery supplied by Bakers Fine Jewellers of Montpellier Cheltenham.

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Left: Blue Jacket Hugo Boss £350; Black Shirt Hugo Boss £89; Worn with Jeans by Superdry £64.99 and Mens Boots Kerry Mahogany £249

Jewellery left and below: Vintage Gentleman’s 18ct yellow gold Longines dress watch; Vintage Omega Seamaster watch Stainless steel and 18ct rose gold £3,950

Gentleman’s 18ct heavy pre-owned opal dress ring £1,450

Jewellery above: Yaron Morhaim, crystal dropper pendant with matching earrings, gold plated on sterling silver, detailed with peridot, rose quartz, white topaz and sapphires £270 and £190; Gold, equestrian brooch £620.

Right: Libertine Jacket Red Wool Liberty Freedom £245; Sequin Top Malone’s Vintage £50; Black Capri Pants Glamour Bunny £38; Womens Boots Longford Black, Dubarry, £335

Right: Panel Strap Bondage Shirt, Tourquoise, Liberty Freedom £90; Framed DM Waistcoat Ancoats, Liberty Freedom £115; Worn with Tab Wide Leg Trousers ‘Clayton’ Liberty Freedom £125; Womens Boots Longford Black, Dubarry, £335

Above and right: He wears Mens Tweed Jacket Gorse, Connacht Accorn, Dubarry, £399, White Shirt Ralph Lauren £85; Navy Blue Chino Hugo Boss £119, Mens Boots Kerry Chestnut, Dubarry, £249. She wears Long Panel SB Coat ‘Fairfield’ Liberty Freedom £260, Panel strap bondage shirt White, Liberty Freedom £75, worn with Box Pleat Loden Mini Skirt ‘Fairfield’, Liberty Freedom £95, Womens Boots Longford Black, Dubarry, £335.

MARCH 2014

Hand carved in 18ct gold, French ladies half hunter pocket watch £1,500

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LIBERTYFREEDOM DUCHESS

PUNK

A seditous and unique range designed and hand made in Lancashire, England.

LOOK WARM, STAY COOL, WEAR TWEED.

UNION MILL, VERNON STREET, BOLTON BL1 2PT ENGLAND t: + 44 (0)1204 386824 | f:+ 44 (0)1204 365522 e: upender@libertyfreedom.co.uk w: www.libertyfreedom.co.uk

84

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beauty

Race Perfect Professional Makeup Artist Samantha Davis shares her top tips for race perfect makeup that is sure to last the distance You’ve chosen that fabulous outfit, purchased a new hat and the champagne’s on ice.

There’s no better reason to get glamorous than for a day at the races. But you’re going to need long-lasting, flawless makeup that won’t let you down.

To begin, a good primer is key to ensure longevity from your foundation. It will even out your pores and allow for smooth makeup application.

A favourite of mine is Laura Mercier’s Foundation Primer (£28); it even comes in different formulas to choose from depending on your skin type. For foundation, you want to choose something that’s light-weight on the skin. Chanel’s Vitalumiere Aqua (£32) gives a beautiful radiance, whilst letting your natural beauty shine through and is gorgeous for those photo opportunities.

Plus it has the added benefit of SPF15 for extra skin protection.

For any blemishes try MAC’s Prolongwear Concealer (£15.50), which provides smudge MARCH 2014

proof coverage lasting up to 15 hours.

For extra staying power, I always recommend setting your makeup. Laura Mercier’s Translucent Setting Powder (£29) is fantastic; with a silky texture it’s extremely natural looking and will control any excess oil that might build up throughout the day.

If you’re planning on going for a bold lip opt for a soft eye look. A great versatile palette is Urban Decay’s Basics eye shadow (£20). It’s full of neutral shades to suit any skin tone. To intensify the look, add some gel liner, and with a little practice create a gorgeous feline flick by extending the liner

outwards. For mascara you can’t go wrong with Benefit’s They’re Real (£19.50). It’ll give you lashes that you never even knew you had!

For lips you certainly don’t want to spend half of your time topping it up or checking if it’s smudged.

Line and define your lips with a lip liner – Bobbi Brown (£16) have a great colour range – then apply your lipstick of choice. I love a classic red lip to make a statement. Bobbi Brown’s Rich Lip Colour in Old Hollywood (£19) is sure to get you noticed.

My top tip is to use a sheet of tissue to lightly blot the lippy once you’ve applied it, creating more of a lip stain. Long-lasting lipstick is all about layering, so add on another coat and you’re ready to go!

If you were to bet on anything, it’s that your makeup is going to look as fresh as the moment you first applied it. From day into night. CS For more top tips visit www.samanthadavismakeup.co.uk

COTSWOLD STYLE 85

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racing style

Hire a hat this Ladies Day and find out the perfect way to wear it If you are looking to add the finishing touch to your outfit at The Festival this year, why not try a hat? Whether you’re in a box, or on the course, how you look on Ladies’ Day and to make you feel just right for the occasion, requires planning. Once you’ve chosen what you’re going to wear, it’s time to add the finishing touch to your outfit with a hat, head-piece or fascinator.

The Festival (Tuesday 11th to Friday 14th March 2014), is one of the most exciting and inclusive weeks of sport anywhere, and is the highlight of the jump racing season. There is no dress code at Cheltenham, but many people do dress up for The Festival.

Wearing a hat or fascinator adds a little sparkle to your overall look, and makes any race-goer feel that little bit special, without necessarily saying ‘look at me’.

Of course, should you want a showstopping hat, go for it! It’s not often we get the opportunity to add the ‘wow-factor’ to what we wear, so why not try something a little different this Ladies’ Day? Hat lover Sarah Speakman (right), from The Cheltenham Hat Company says: “I believe everyone suits a hat; it’s just a matter of finding the right hat for you. Not every hat suits every lady, however! The best way to find the perfect hat for Ladies’ Day is take your time. Once you’ve made an appointment at The Cheltenham Hat Company, come along and take as much time as you like – but most importantly - enjoy it! We offer a personal, one-to-one service to all our customers, and we will be happy to assist you in making the right choice, or offer advice on the current season's styles and colours, should you wish.

“You’ll soon get to know which hats MARCH 2014

you prefer, and the only real golden rule in choosing a hat is when you feel comfortable and confident, it’s the right one for you!”

The Cheltenham Hat Company can also add feathers, flowers and fabric to the hat you hire, to complement your outfit, and fascinators can be designed and made to order, to match any colour, to hire or buy.

It is important the hat you choose plays a part in the overall look and there is a connection between the clothes and accessories you are wearing. Choose your jewellery carefully – necklace and earrings should never compete with your hat, but complement the whole ensemble.

Sarah suggests racegoers also consider the weather at the racecourse in March when choosing their hat: “If it’s wet and windy, choose felt or faux fur to provide protection against the elements, not just to stand out from the crowd! It’s quite likely you’ll be spending much of the time outside, so if you choose to wear a fascinator, make sure it is easily secured, and you don’t feel you need to hold on to it all day – you’ll have enough to hold on to with Champagne flutes, race cards, and hopefully winnings, without worrying about what’s on your head!”

The Cheltenham Hat Company aims to

provide a relaxed dressing room feel, and the showroom has a large changing room, as well as plenty of space to walk around in the hats you try.

Sarah continues: “We recommend customers bring their outfit with them so we can find the perfect for every race-goer’s wardrobe.”

Sarah believes there is no feature more important than your hair when it comes to wearing a hat or fascinator.

How you wear your hair will alter the appearance of the head-piece you choose. Whatever you wear on your head should complement, not compete, with your hair.

“At the Cheltenham Hat Company we will experiment with different colours and styles, angles and positions to make sure we find the perfect hat that’s just right for you,” concludes Sarah.

More and more, ladies are looking to hire rather than buy, for the simple reason; you can hire a hat for just a fraction of the cost of buying one, and never have to worry about wearing it just once. CS The Cheltenham Hat Company is located between Cheltenham and Gloucester at Woodhouse Farm on the Brockworth Road, just outside Churchdown.

Please call 07966 768461, or visit www.cheltenhamhatcompany.co.uk to make an appointment.

For further information and images please telephone Sarah Speakman on 07966 768461 or email

sarah@speakman.orangehome.co.uk or visit www.cheltenhamhatcompany.co.uk

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fashion

Grace&Glamour

SPRING FEVER Spring is finally in the air and spilling into your shopping bag. As the winter wardrobe gets packed up, what should you stock up on for summer?

All the old classics’ of course, but maybe with a little something extra…

Words by Grace Parry, fashion and lifestyle writer Year in, year out, we see the same old trends rotating round. Through winter to spring we say goodbye to camel, leather and knee high boots and make way for a whole load of cotton, pastels and summertime dresses.

When this happens, we can do one of two things; roll our eyes and feel uninspired by the lack of originality or look deeper and notice that it’s never quite the same stuff, just renewed yet recycled classics (that we all know and love) given a new lease of life. After all, if the shops lacked florals and linen, how would we know what season it was?

As much as I’ll always insist that I’m an autumn/winter fashion fan at heart, there is something about the seasonal change in a shop’s layout that puts a smile of my face. Maybe it’s the promise of sun, or just the brighter colours perking my mood; either way, I like its effect.

One of the biggest colours to take over the fashion scene in spring is white; although with it being the hit of last season’s colour pallet, it will be

MARCH 2014

more like staying around than springing up. Yet, not white in the sense of a classic broderie dress or statement trouser. Oh no, this year white comes cropped and textured (a la M&S) or maybe even sleeveless and cutout, courtesy of Hobbs. A classic, I think we can all agree that, we’re glad stuck around.

But what about that cringe-evoking tropical print often spotted on Brits’ abroad? Can we really say we’re excited when we spot another loud and lavish floral or parrot print? We sure can when it comes in a greeny-grey and plastered in palm leaves. H&M knew exactly what we’d want for spring using a flattering fit trouser to rejig an old favourite.

With colour on the mind, it’s a wonder whether to dread or dream about the concept of pastels. Knowing that they don’t always work, but are oh so covetable can lead a girl to feel torn; or would have, if Warehouse hadn’t graced us with such a beautiful two

piece. And if you’d started to doubt the worth of lace in life, this slightly striped, more woven look will surely change your mind.

Who’d of thought, the ability to wear pastels and lace and not look like your Grandmother’s table cloth is possible!

And finally, this leads me on to the bright.

The bright that guarantees’ fear in the pale skinned but looks great on a tan (okay, even that is questionable); yes it too has had a facelift.

No more are the nearlyneon putrid colours; this year’s bright is ombre’d, calm and classy. If Karen Millen can do it, you know it’s true.

With all that in mind, choose your spring staples wisely or at least with the knowledge that you’re adding to the rotation. We all know it’s easy to love an old classic, but it’s much more fun to spice it up.

Happy spring shopping!

Grace @graceoliviap www.dorothyandolive.com

COTSWOLD STYLE 89

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hair

Fit for a Festival...

with

Laura Leigh

Ladies Day is an important part of Festival week. Dress to impress, visit the shopping village, and enjoy a fantastic day at Cheltenham races This year, the emphasis is going to be on fashion more than ever.

Get your friends together, put on your best racing outfits and visit the Laura Leigh blowdry bar to make sure you are stylishly groomed and ready for one of the great social events of the sporting calendar.

Look your best and take advantage of the services on offer at Laura Leigh hairdressing; treat yourself to a fabulous blow-dry or up-do to compliment your outfit. Ask for a style that leaves you looking groomed, sleek and polished.

The blow-dry bar will be open from 8:45am on Cheltenham Ladies Day; the stylists will be offering a walk in service guaranteed to have you out with fabulous hair within half an hour for just £20. It is advisable to book to avoid disappointment.

This is racing’s special day for the Ladies, where all eyes will be on the most fashionably dressed, make sure that your hair doesn't let you down!

Take part in the Fashion Awards during the day and you could be one of three lucky female racegoers, who impress the panel of judges with their stylish attire, to share in a package of luxury prizes, presented by Adam Henson.

Prizes will be presented to: • The Best dressed Lady • The Lady with the best hat • The Lady with the best accessories

Photography by Rob Wheatman; Model: Susie Hanks; Hair by Laura Hat by Denise Innes British School of Millinery

Leigh Hairdressing;

How to enter the Fashion Awards: • Go to the Fashion Zone above the parade ring, before the first race, to fill out an entry form and have your photograph taken.

• Entrants must be aged 18 years or over.

• Finalists will be selected by a special panel of style Judges. Live judging of the finalists will take place during the afternoon followed by the presentation made to the winners. CS

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

MARCH 2014

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weddings

You are cordially invited to a seriously stylish wedding fair, which will not only provide a delightful day out but will also showcase an amazing array of suppliers all under one roof.

Brides With Cotswold Style, will be held in the beautiful Cheltenham Town Hall, on Sunday 23rd March, from 11am until 4pm.

Organising a wedding doesn’t need to be stressful; it can be one of the most exciting events you will ever plan, which is why are proud to host a spectacular day that will make wedding planning feel like a breeze. Whether you want to see what some of the best suppliers in the business have to offer, looking for ideas and inspiration, or if you’re simply looking from a little bit of pampering to keep your wedding worries at bay, come and indulge in our Brides With Cotswold Style boutique wedding fair.

Upon arrival brides-to-be will be treated to a glass of bubbly, as you begin to leisurely browse a whole host of quality suppliers, from venues to music, and bridal boutiques to beauty salons.

Be sure to make your way to the front row of our fashion show, where the latest

Are you engaged and planning your dream day but unsure of where to start; or perhaps you’re craving some glamorous inspiration? If so, it’s time you experience THE ultimate wedding fair of the year on Sunday 23rd March at Cheltenham Town Hall...

Sponsored by bridal collections from an array of top bridal boutiques, together with Mother of The Bride outfits and accessories will be showcased.

Professional make-up artist, BooLou, will be on hand taking you step-by-step through the basics of bridal beauty; you may even get a chance to have a makeover! Our sponsors, Blushes, will also be on hand to talk you through different hairstyles and hair care tips on the lead up to the big day.

Pampering - an essential aspect of being a bride-to-be, will adore the champagne manicures from Earls & Co. And there’s no reason for the groomsmen to feel left out either, as the traditional barbers are also providing shaves and whiskey cocktails. You can, therefore, assure your intended that this event is not just for brides!

Staff from a variety of top venues will be on hand to talk through your needs with their bespoke planning services. Each will show you how their venues can be transformed into magical spaces for your wedding ceremony.

Meanwhile, Linda of Table To Dine For, will inspire you with her stunning venue styling services - we’re talking some seriously glamorous table settings here A definate ‘WOW’ factor.

Live entertainment will be provided throughout the day by Ted Squared Music Agency, alongside other acts.

We will even have a guest clairvoyant that you can visit!

Are you after some advice on the lead up to your wedding; never fear, Sophie Smith, wedding planner extraordinaire will be on hand with ‘The Bridal Clinic’, offering exclusive one-to-one advice for couples and giving you her top tips to ensure your wedding is as perfect as it can possibly be. Appointments are strictly limited, so please email sophie@weddingsby sophie.com, to avoid disappointment.

Are you after a handmade wedding?

If so, our fun, interactive workshops including: fascinator making, creating boutonnières, and cupcake decorating will be perfect for you. Our creative aspects to our day will be hosted by the very best in the Cotswolds, so don’t miss out. CS BE SURE TO BRING ALONG YOUR FLYER FOR FREE ENTRY!

Sunday 23rd March, 11-4pm, Cheltenham Town Hall MARCH 2014

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Cotswold Face Aesthetic Clinic

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Yvonne also offers Botulinum Toxin A injec)ons, Dermal Fillers, Facial Peels and Dermaroller.

For more details call 07584 305512 or email yvonnecosme)c@hotmail.co.uk www.cotswoldfaceaesthe)csclinic.co.uk

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We provide non-surgical enhanced aesthetic solutions for natural beauty and anti-ageing. Our treatments also include dermal fillers, muscle relaxing injections, micro-needing, skin boosters, bio-revitalisation and lipolisis.

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MEET THE JETSONS… Eric Barton takes his seat with executive jet company Returnjet jet can be re-listed with spare capacity for possible sharing). It’s a brilliant but simple concept and could save you a small fortune and remove the misery of joining the ‘herd’.

Mark Blanchfield, founder and CEO landed on the idea when he tried to book his family flights to Ibiza. Ryanair at the time had raised prices to nearly £500 per person and Mark wondered if he might be better off booking a private jet.

After trawling the internet he became confused between who was an operator and who was a broker and realised there was no single hub to determine what jets were flying when and to where. The idea was born.

Mark Blanchfield comments,’ it’s taken twenty months of hard development to get the software ready. On a global basis the aviation industry estimates that around 40% of private jets fly empty after dropping off or going to collect passengers. Our system can identify these empty aircraft and can very often come up with a heavily discounted price’. The software model has been developed in close consultation with the actual operators including; Hangar8 (the largest aircraft operator in the UK and one of the top five in Europe) and London Executive Aviation (Operator of the Year 2013).

www.shoottheday.co.uk

The check –in nonsense and security delays we have to endure at airports are the biggest bore on the planet. Herded like automatons, we’re treated to the most abysmal treatment at the hands of the ground operators. It’s one of the tortures that most people want to avoid…well now they can.

Cheltenham based company Returnjet have come up with a very neat bag of software tricks to alleviate this pain. It’s a simple concept that allows them to match potential passengers with available spare capacity on executive jets. It’s like a dating site minus the awkward first meeting and silence.

The unique selling point is its ability to interrogate operators’ live data feeds in real time which delivers future jet positions and their availability. This enables the software to 'hail a jet' to suit the customer's travel requirements via one easy to use search engine. It’s like knowing where all the taxis in the UK are at any one time. It then simply pushes the customer enquiry to the operator of the appropriate jet to book it directly. Easy. The crucial point here is that the contract will be between the passenger and the operator with no middle-man to ‘muddy the sky’. To date there is no such facility of its kind. There are three main criteria where you can grab a bargain; Empty Legs (where an aircraft is relocating or returning empty), Flexi Legs (the opportunity to incorporate empty flights wherever possible to meet passenger requirements) and Shared Legs (where a

Executive Aviation Services who are based at Gloucestershire Airport were pivotal in the development of the concept, their Chairman Peter Turner commented, ‘Returnjet are putting customer service into the hands of the people best placed to do it - the operator of the aircraft’.

Following the UK launch, Returnjet has begun to introduce European operators and plans a worldwide roll-out during the course of 2014.

Mark Finally comments,’ this is about volume and growing the business right alongside and in partnership with the operators, it’s what sets us apart from the brokers’.

Being an automaton is easy, but thinking outside the box just might pay off and let’s be honest... it’s a very stylish thing to do. CS For more info and to book www.returnjet.com

MARCH 2014

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business style In this monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business style we talk to...

Brunsdons, Circle 2 Success, Investec and Harrison Clark.

We also feature our special supplement, Farming For The Future

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Your family questions answered by Mathew Waddington at Jordans Solicitors

Q

I divorced two years ago, and have two children. I wish to move out of the area, and wish to change the children's school. My husband is threatening to stop me.

What can I do?

A

I assume that you are the resident parent for your two children. If you are, i.e. the children live with you the majority of the time, then you are fully entitled, without the need for an Order of the Court, to move anywhere within England and Wales. You are also entitled to move the children to different schools.

The Courts take the approach that you should fully consult the children's father, and therefore you should tell him where you intend to move to and which school you intend the children to go to. If there is still no agreement, then either of you can make an Application to the Court.

You could make an Application for a Specific Issue Order, which would enable the Court to order that your children go to the prospective new school(s). Alternatively, your husband could make an Application for what is called a Prohibited Steps Order to attempt to stop you from moving your children from their school or from moving out the area.

The Court will generally look at the principle of who is the main carer and whether there is any risk of harm done to the children from any proposed move. If there is no harm to the children, and the Court believes it is in their best

interests, then the Court will usually follow the plans, so long as they are well thought out, of the resident parent.

It is notoriously difficult to attempt to stop someone from moving within England and Wales, and therefore you should consult with your husband fully. If there is still no agreement you should consider making an Application for a Specific Issue Order.

The Court will consider the wishes and feelings of the children, the completeness of your plans in terms of education, accommodation and financial arrangements, what the children are used to, and whether they would lose any contact with their father, as well as the affect on you and them, if the Court allows you to move or stops you from moving.

It is rare that the Court would stop you, and therefore please make an appointment to come and see me for a free hour so that I can let you know the process that you may need to go through.

For more information please contact Mat Waddington on 01242 851619 or email. mwaddington@jordanssolicitors.com

If any reader would like to send in a question to Jordans Solicitors to be answered either privately or on this page, please email your question to questions@jordans-solicitors.com

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

MARCH 2014

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C2S Business Update Meetings held at Laithwaites Wine; Britannia Construction; with Commercial Group showcasing the Tesla Electric car Words by Suzanne Hall-Gibbins, Director of Circle2Success It has been a busy month for members of the C2S Forums. Starting with a visit to family owned Laithwaites Wines based at Barnwood in Gloucester. The business started in 1969 and has grown substantially over this time with a bulk of the business now concentrated in Gloucester delivering wine to over 400,000 customers. An amazing set up with award winning customer service teams. After a business overview and questions and answer session from Andy Hawker, Head of Customer Fulfilment, the group had a tour of the warehouse and were then treated to a wine tasting in the newly opened onsite retail shop.

Over 20 members of the Executive Forum met at Britannia Construction for a highly interactive session delivered by business coaches Jane Muller and Sara Reader on Coaching and Mentoring tools & techniques with some hands on practice and role play. As part of the session Kieran O’Donoghue. HR Champions; Jennifer Haligan, Green Gourmet; and Damian Poulter, Britannia Construction

(pictured left) practiced their elevators pitches.

Also making an appearance at the meeting at Britannia courtesy of Commercial Group was the new Tesla S Class electric car.

Members of the forum experienced driving in this very impressive car first hand. The car valued at £85,000 is thought to be one of only six in the UK at the moment. The Tesla also sets the bar for electric driving range – with an incredible range of 300 miles. Arthur Hindmarch, MD, Commercial Group updated the Forum on Commercial’s commitment to the sustainability agenda and why they were looking at a range of vehicles to replace their 100 fleet cars. He said ‘It is tomorrow’s car and absolutely fantastic’. As if a theme was running on sustainability at the second meeting of the year of the Business Club held at the Daffodil new member Steve Wood who runs a chauffeuring company, Chauffeur Logical using a hybrid car said ‘Having something different to offer people has been an excellent differentiator for me’. www.chauffeurlogical.co.uk The next Leaders Forum is at Britannia Construction 27th February; the next Executive Forum will be held at Randall & Payne 19th March. CS

Circle2Success (C2S) is a network of MD’s; Partners and Directors of successful companies who support each other by sharing ideas and insights; short circuiting problems and developing alliances that add real value to Gloucestershire businesses. Sustaining business growth is only possible if you have a great team and critical to this is the next generation of managers and directors. Circle2Success provides opportunities to develop those rising stars, from learning key skills to being inspired by leading business owners.

www.circle2success.co.uk

For more information please call Suzanne on 07971 148 787 email: suzanne.hall-gibbins@circle2success.co.uk

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LEAD SPONSOR

SPONSORS

MARCH 2014

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See more socials at www.stylemagazines.co.uk

style event

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Knight Frank celebrates opening of new Stow-on-the-Wold Office

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On 13th February 250 guests joined the partners of Knight Frank to celebrate the opening of their new office in Stow-on-the-Wold.

Rupert Wakley (Office Head) welcomed the guests and Atty Beor-Roberts (Regional Chairman) says ‘There was such a good atmosphere, everyone seemed to be enjoying the evening, it was just like a private party’.

The party was held at Daylesford Organic Farm Shop who served delicious canapés and their own organic wines.

Knight Frank have a particularly strong presence in the Cotswolds with existing offices in Cirencester, Cheltenham, Oxford and Stratford, all with direct links to their 22 offices in London.

Photography by: Simon Foster 10

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1 Nick Chivers. 2 Gerard Knock. 3 Peter Dawson and Atty Beor-Roberts. 4 Claire Taylor and Liza Randall. 5 Leigh Glazebrook, Atty Beor-Roberts, Rupert Wakley and Claire Taylor – the Stow on the Wold Team. 6 Huw Davies. 7 Martyn Austin and Esther Austin. 8 Edward Hicks, Sarah Morton and Adam Smith. 9 Janet Piper, Merille Phillips and Colin Piper. 10 Rupert Wakley. 11 Harry Gladwin. 12 Atty Beor-Roberts. 13 Mr and Mrs Peter Strickland.

14 /15 Daylesford Hospitality. 16 Catherine Law, Nigel Butler and Lindsey Vaughan. 17 Leigh Glazebrook and Catherine Maher.

18 James Evetts and Peter Slatter

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000 Farming for the Future Foreword March 14:Layout 1

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© 2013 Will Harris - info@snapanimage.co.uk

Welcome With a word from Countess Bathurst We live on an Island nation, so it doesn’t take a genius to realise the importance of farming the land with due care and attention is just as vital as the prevention of over-fishing certain species in our home waters.

We are truly blessed in Gloucestershire with extraordinarily diverse agricultural ground. The sheer quality is unrivalled and as a result, it proudly grows some of the very best produce in the UK. Farmers have an inbuilt and deep respect for the countryside and, as a community, play a huge role in its protection. In this county of Gloucestershire I truly believe you will find some of the most sensitive agronomy in the UK. Not only in the good times, but also the bad, our farmers will always place the integrity of their land first and foremost. Our home, The Bathurst Estate, totals some 16,000 acres of which 5,000 acres is farmed in hand by Cirencester Park Farms. In addition, we acquired Kemble Park Farms last year, adding another 2,500 acres and a 900 head strong dairy herd to the family fold – so farming is, quite simply, in our blood and our passion. Our main objective is to produce quality commodity arable crops, and milk,

as efficiently as possible, using economies of scale, a motivated workforce and modern, well maintained equipment. But whilst production is important, we also take our environmental responsibilities very seriously indeed, as we all should.

We remain ever conscious of the need to ensure that future generations are left with an agricultural legacy that is both tenable and sustainable. It is a tough industry, make no mistake. With ever fluctuating markets, cheap imports and powerful supermarkets, British Farming fights to remain competitive. Not only that, but the effects of our clearly changing climate also play a part in the battle – the disastrous effects of the recent flooding in the South illustrate only too well how vulnerable we all are to Mother Nature. But with all this in mind, we must never forget that the future of farming in the United Kingdom is a collective responsibility and we need to work together as an industry, and as one, to not only maintain the sensitive management of the countryside, but to carry it safely forward for our children.

Plus a word from our Sponsor...

Researched and compiled by Rosie Webber & Eric Barton

MARCH 2014

Agrii is fortunate to work with many of the UK’s leading farmers who strive to produce quality food for an ever growing population. But for many of our customers, their passion for the agricultural industry and for the countryside in which they live and work, runs far deeper than just a job. They invest time, energy and money to enhance the environment, support their local schools and communities and look after those who have served farming and now find themselves in need. As a

business that works in the countryside and serves the farming industry, we wanted to do something to champion the work our customers do that goes beyond ‘the day job’.

Hence we are proud to support this Cotswold Style Magazine feature profiling local farming families/ businesses who combine professional food production with a strong social responsibility and raise awareness of a side to our great British farming industry that is often not given the recognition it deserves.

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Looking for something new this October?

Foundation and Undergraduate Degree Courses We offer a range of career-focused foundation and undergraduate degrees. Our specialist courses combine academic excellence with practical application to ensure graduates have the skills needed for the employment market. Our students benefit form a worldwide alumni network and excellent career prospects, with our graduate employability presently topping 94%.

Subject areas include: Archaeology Agri-business Equine Wildlife Conservation Business Management Rural Land Management Real Estate Food Supply Chains

Postgraduate Degree Courses The RAU offers postgraduate courses in diverse disciplines from food and agri-business to international real estate, equine science to sustainable agriculture. Providing students unique links with industry, established course programmes and outstanding academic reputation.

Places still available for 2014 entry

Open days held throughout 2014 Booking essential through our website

Please contact us: admissions@rau.ac.uk Tel: 01285 652531, Cirencester, GL7 6JS

www.rau.ac.uk

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Passion for the Countryside

PHOTO COMPETITION Supports Rural Charities Agrii launched a photography competition to the farming community at LAMMA on 22nd January 2014.

The competition is open to all and will support three rural charities through donations from Agrii.

Entrants can submit as many photographs as they like, which they feel best reflect the theme of the competition: ‘A Passion for the Countryside’. For each person that enters, Agrii will make a donation to a central pot, which will be divided between three rural charities; the Addington Fund, The Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution and the Royal Highland Education Trust. Each charity is supported by an Agrii customer, who is directly involved with the organisation.

“We are fortunate to work with many of the UK’s leading farmers who strive to produce quality food for an ever growing population. For many of our customers, their passion for the agricultural industry and the countryside in which they work runs far deeper than just a job. They invest time, energy and money to enhance the environment, support their local schools and communities and look after those members of the farming industry who need assistance.” says Mark Thomas, Head of Marketing at Agrii.

“As a business that works in the countryside and serves the farming industry, we wanted to champion the work our customers’ do that goes beyond the ‘day job’. We felt a photography competition was a good way to raise awareness of these great causes and the value of our great British farming industry.”

The competition has three categories; adult, under 16s and Agrii staff. The adult and under 16s categories will be

MARCH 2014

judged by a panel of independent industry and charity representatives, who will select six finalists. The images from the six finalists will be displayed on the Agrii stand at Cereals 2014, where visitors can vote for the overall winner. The staff category will be judged separately.

The overall winner of the competition will win a prize of £500 in electronics vouchers. The remaining five finalists will each receive £100 in electronics vouchers. All six finalists plus the winner of the staff category will have their image included in the Agrii 2015 calendar.

Entries to the competition are via the Agrii website, www.agrii.co.uk, where entrants can also find full terms and conditions. Entries close on Monday 12th May at 5pm.

Andrew Brealy, who farms 1,100 acres in Kent, is passionate about giving something back to the farming community by helping farmers and farm workers in great need, hardship or distress, through his involvement with The Royal Agricultural Benevolent

Institution (RABI). He says: “The worst can happen to anyone; but help is at hand from RABI.” “We turn our farm into an outdoor classroom to teach local children about food, farming and the countryside”, say Ian and Carole Brunton, from Fife, Scotland, who support The Royal Highland Educational Trust (RHET).

The charity provides opportunities for school children in Scotland to visit the outdoors and learn about food, farming and the countryside.

As a trustee of the Addington Fund, Al Brookes, farm manager at Waddesdon Estates in Buckinghamshire, is dedicated to increasing awareness of the plight of those in the farming community who need help, but who often don’t ask until it is too late. “The Addington Fund helps the older generation retire from farming without hardship and provides financial support for working farmers who need assistance in unexpected circumstances”, says Al. CS

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What is the value of your land?

No matter how large or small, we can help you maximise the value of your farm. Let us show you the potential.

Contact James Prewett for a free appraisal on 0844 225 9495.

KnightFrank.co.uk/farms

Buckinghamshire 128 acres

Guide price £1,050,000

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Worcestershire 147 acres

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000 Farming for the Future James Maccurach Farmer March 14:Layout 1

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Bourton on the Water Farm A family affair Like many farms, business at Tagmoor is very much a family affair. Having been passed down through three generations, the Bourton on the Water farm is now run by Martin and James MacCurrach. Bought by James’ grandfather Major Peter MacCurrach in 1946, the business originally covered 88 acres and farmed sheep and cereals, before later introducing a dairy herd.

James’ father Martin took to the helm in the 1970’s and farmed dairy cows until 1984. The dairy herd was later sold so the farm could concentrate on cereals, and a suckler herd of Charolais was introduced to graze the permanent pasture.

After completing his degree at the Royal Agricultural College, James returned to Tagmoor to help run the

MARCH 2014

farm. In 2007 James used stone from the farm to build his own house, Elm Cottage, where he lives with his wife, Anna, and three children. For James it is important that the Cotswold’s unique features are maintained. “In essence we are always trying to improve all aspects of the countryside around us to ensure it is kept for generations to come.

Today Tagmoor is a mixed farm of cereals, wheat, barley, beans and oilseed rape with a thriving suckler herd of 50 cows and two bulls. James raises the cattle over two years on a grass-based diet to produce the finest quality, freerange beef that he sells through his acclaimed enterprise Love My Cow. Technology very much has a place in the inner workings of Tagmoor farm.

At the moment the farm grows spring

“In essence we are always trying to improve all aspects of the countryside around us to ensure it is kept for generations to come.” barley and uses a computer programme to apply the right amount of fertiliser for the crop. James also uses a spray programme that will keep the crop healthy, allowing it to reach the malting specification required. According to James, technology will play a huge role in future farming and will aid a quicker response to the requirements that future markets will bring. CS www.lovemycow.com

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Chavenage

Not just a farm

www.justineclaireweddingphotography.com

The world of farming has evolved so much over the last 100 years that any retrospective glance back will leave you in awe of what’s been happening.

And that doesn’t include the recent application of strong science in today’s’ farming communities. You can trace some of the biggest changes through the advent of power, other than man and horse. Steam, then combustion put paid to many of the old ways of working. You might be forgiven for

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“You might be forgiven for thinking that farming as an occupation is ‘an old thing’ which is still ‘stuck in mud and using clapped-out old tractors’.

You’d be dead wrong.”

thinking that farming as an occupation is ‘an old thing’ which is still ‘stuck in mud and using clapped-out old tractors’.

You’d be dead wrong. Farming has come a long way and the change in science has made a huge impression.

Over the last fifteen years, milk yields have increased by 33%, yields of wheat have increased by 1% and oilseed rape yields have increased by 12%.

Chavenage Farm near Tetbury in Gloucestershire is set in 1700 acres of arable land and previously had a large dairy herd, which due to numerous TB outbreaks was broken up and the land given over to crops. Caroline Lowsley-Williams comments, ‘the farm has been in our family since 1891 and it is nothing short of an honour to be the custodians of this land and its properties’. Gone are the days of holding up a wet finger to test the wind direction as the satellite systems on farm machinery now do

that…and even plot the furrows to plough. Caroline goes onto further comment, ’many large farms these days employ contractors to do the majority of their work. We use contractors as they are up to date with all the latest science on crop husbandry, possible disease and yield. If we are to make the land work, then we must understand the science that needs applying. Long gone are the days of the trusty old family farm labourers and retainers’. This is in a sense is the influence that science has made to the huge differences in rural life and the farms that work the land today.

To supplement the day to day activity of the farm at Chavenage they also open up their Manor House for weddings, corporate days and filming, which adds another income sphere to the activity on their land. CS www.chavenage.com

JANUARY MARCH 2014

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Overbury Farm

A farming jewel in the North Cotswolds…

Overbury Farms is a sheep and arable farm set on the historic Cotswold slopes of Bredon Hill on the Worcestershire Gloucestershire boarders.

It’s been in the same family for over 250 years. Covering 1,538 hectares, it surrounds the picturesque villages of Overbury and Conderton.

Penelope Bossom, owner of Overbury Farms, has a team led by Farm Manager, Jake Freestone. Jake manages five staff, one of whom is the full time shepherd.

The farm team once had about thirty staff, now their numbers are down to four highly-skilled men. The larger machinery and new technology enables these men (who live on the estate) to carry out all the farming activities throughout the year. Again, this is the appliance of science making a difference. All five men have seen dramatic changes on the farm during their lifetimes, not least in the size and complexity of machinery. As machinery grew in power, the number of men required to do the work dropped.

Simple. At Overbury Farms they grow wheat, barley, feed beans, oil seed rape and grass. The farm also allows other farming businesses to use some of their land and irrigation to grow spring

MARCH 2014

“All five men have seen dramatic changes on the farm during their lifetimes, not least in the size and complexity of machinery.” onions, peas and potatoes. The soils range from thin Cotswold brash towards the summit of Bredon Hill, through to very light sand over-laying gravel below Overbury and Conderton, and heavy Lias clay soils south of the Carrant Brook. It’s this mix of differing soils that delivers the choices. The farm runs to almost 1000ft on the summit of Bredon Hill and has about 650mm of rain each year. Well, perhaps a bit more this year. Their 1100 strong sheep flock is made of up of North Country Mules and some homebred North Country Mules crossed with a Texel ram. They lamb in January and April as they want to provide lamb for their customers all year round. The ewes

have access to a range of different grazing depending on the time of year.

Stubble turnips are used to fatten lambs during the winter months and to keep the ewes outside when there is little other feed available. The sheep also play an important role in the arable rotation…as mobile fertiliser spreaders.

And at Overbury Jake even has a blog.

Farming’s come a long way! CS www.overburyfarms.co.uk

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Swell Buildings Farm Hamish and Robert Campbell have been farming in the Cotswolds since 1998. Over the years, the family-run Swell Buildings Farm has evolved in many ways, including new business ventures and partnerships. Having formed a machinery joint venture, the Cotswold Farming Partnership, with neighbours including Countryfile’s Adam Henson, the business has managed to cut its power usage and machinery costs.

The biggest area of development for Hamish and Robert has been their rapeseed oil business, R-oil. In 2005, the pair diversified into the production of cold-pressed rapeseed oil in order to maximise returns from growing rapeseed when commodity prices were beginning to make the growing of the crop unviable. As one of the first producers of rapeseed oil, R-oil is now distributing around 43,000 litres a month from its 1,500-acre farm.

With a real emphasis on sustainability, the production of R-Oil is completely

“With a real emphasis on sustainability, the production of R-Oil is completely environmentally friendly”

MARCH 2014

Growing year on year

environmentally friendly. All by-product is used as animal feed, so none of the original crop is wasted, and waste oil is collected from the catering trade and used as biodiesel to run their vehicles.

In the future, Hamish and Robert would like to pass down the business to the next generation. “We would very much like for it to continue to be run as a family business, but one cannot control the future, so it will depend on the next generation.” Hamish believes that future farmers will have to work

closer with the end user in order to make sure their business is viable. Seeing a growing public demand for transparency in the food market, Hamish foresees that adapting to change will play a vital part in farming of the future.

CS

Swell Building Farm, Lower Swell, Stow On The Wold, Gloucestershire, GL54 1HG Tel: 01451 830254

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Meet the agricultural lawyer in a Gloucestershire law firm

As the fourth generation to take on Priory Farm, there is a lot riding on Max and Henry Pullin. Having been brought up on the farm, currently run by their father, David, the brothers are no strangers to the hard work and effort that goes into maintaining a 240 strong dairy herd. Originally bought by the brothers’ great grandfather in 1936, the closed herd farm has been passed down through the decades and now Max and Henry, aged 20 and 24 respectively, are heavily involved with the day-to-day running of the business.

With its Saxon chapel and 15th century tithe barn, the land is shrouded in history.

The unique setting attracts history enthusiasts hoping to get a glimpse inside the church, which is now over 1000 years old. To maximise the full potential of what the historic site has to offer, David moved his dairy herd into an enormous milking parlour in 2002, which allowed for the former barns to be converted into holiday

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landowners to multi-million pound estate owners.

Frank is well known to many in the farming community and is a nationallyrecognised expert in agricultural law, equine and rural matters. UK legal

directories call him a “deal maker” and clients say he is a “trusted advisor”.

He works closely with Willans’ private client and commercial teams to provide tax and estate planning advice to estates and landowners, advice on family and matrimonial transactions affecting farming families and those needing corporate or employment law assistance in a rural context.

Frank says: “We are delighted to help promote the farming industry and the future of farming. Young farmers are an important part of the rural economy and are the next generation that will help to shape that future.”

Frank Smith went on location with the Cotswold Style team to meet two of his favourite farmers...

Max and Henry Pullin PHOTO: WWW.PHOTOGRAPHYBYSTEFANIE.CO.UK

Frank Smith is no ordinary lawyer. A typical day for him can include anything from taking clients’ instructions to sell, purchase or let agricultural land, drafting leases of shooting rights, or workers’ tenancy agreements and farm visits, to writing articles to keep the industry updated on changes in legislation and planning. His spare time is often spent in the country; he attends point-to-points, county shows, races and local hunts.

Frank is a partner and heads the agriculture and estates department at Cheltenham-based law firm Willans LLP. He provides authoritative legal advice to farmers, farming partnerships, landowners, equestrian businesses and those buying and/or letting agricultural property. His clients range from small

cottages. Now the cottages are let for 80 per cent of the year, and even attract visitors from the other side of the world.

City-dwellers, families and even hen

parties can all get a taste of country living at the farm in the beautifully renovated cottages with the opportunity to feed the cows themselves, and take picturesque strolls in the fresh country air.

Max and Henry believe that this kind of diversification is becoming more popular and is, in some cases, becoming essential for farmers to stabilise their businesses. Like many farmers in the area, the brothers believe the Cotswolds’ scenic views and quaint villages are major attractions to visitors unaccustomed to countryside living. “People like coming to the Cotswolds to see the

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JessVaughan

Jess Vaughan’s grandfather originally moved to Hardwicke Farm in 1955, having served as a tank commander in the Second World War. Jess’ father, Mike, took over the business in 1986 to carry on the traditional low-input farming method, which led the business to gain full organic status in 2000. Now, the farm allows Jess to sell the milk under the aptly named, Jess’ Ladies Organic Farm Milk label.

Jess’ passion for dairy farming was ignited as a toddler sitting in the milking parlour watching her parents milk the cows. Jess spent much of her childhood with her sister feeding the calves, exploring the farm and adopting lots of pets over the years.

After completing her university degree she joined her father to work on the farm in 2002. Together they milk the cows personally every day,

and bottle the milk themselves at their own dairy on the farm, before delivering to various farm shops, independent delis, restaurants and health shops. Jess believes that by avoiding intensive farming methods, the organic, non-homogenised milk from the farm is tastier and offers more health benefits.

Jess considers the traditional Vaughan way of maintaining a high standard of welfare and respect for

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the cattle to be the best method to ensure the tastiest end product. Having a small herd of 80 allows Jess and her father to continue to tend to the cows’ well being in many ways, including their diet.

The ‘ladies’ graze on lush organic pasture in the summer months and high-quality organic clover silage harvested on the farm, in the winter.

Jess’ careful consideration of the interaction between farming practices and countryside food chains makes for a harmonious co-existence between the ‘ladies’, the natural wildlife and farming. This attention to detail is what Jess sees as the most important way of ensuring happy cows and a delicious end product.

old Cotswold stone walls, all the old buildings and the villages.”

As milk suppliers for Sainsbury’s, David, Max and Henry are required to ensure that the welfare of their cows is paramount, which acres of pastureland enable them to do. With Sainsbury’s wanting to reduce the carbon footprint of the milk they sell, the farm has become more environmentally friendly. Heat recovery units and ‘intelligent’ milking systems that only use the minimum amount of energy required have been set up to help to achieve a greener, more sustainable future; something Max and Henry believe is becoming increasingly important for farmers. “A lot of people are going into greener energy, so you’ll see a lot more solar panels, wind turbines, biomass boilers and things like that installed.”

Having to learn the ropes of the milk business and the holiday cottages provide Max and Henry with a challenging yet rewarding future. Having a strong emotional connection to the site and their heritage, the boys will be sure to do their best to keep the businesses as successful as they are today.

And although day after day of wind and rain can be trying, the pair “wouldn’t want to do anything else.”

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Farming for the future – an accountant’s viewpoint

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Tim Watkins is a Partner at Randall and Payne and has a passion for agriculture and Farming Left & Right: Nikki Cairns and Tim Watkins

WWW.GEORGIEPHAIRPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK

Farming, like most other industries, has gone through huge change over recent years. What does the future hold going forward? From an accountant’s point of view I see a number of challenges for farming for the future.

Succession will always be a challenge.

As the elder generation move towards retirement then there needs to be a handing over of the reins to the next generation, or, perhaps a sale.

Retirement or sale can have huge tax consequences and care needs to be taken in dealing with assets as well as the business to make sure valuable tax reliefs are not lost along the way.

Planning is therefore essential and needs reviewing regularly. But in the whirlwind of dealing with everything happening on the farm on a daily basis perhaps this does not get the priority it deserves. Our challenge will be to keep this on the agenda.

Increasingly there is a need for more detailed information on trading performance, broken down to cover separate enterprises within the business.

There are a number of software packages available which can provide this information. The reports produced depend very much on the detail the farmer wants and the detail put in. The future does need good information on which to base decisions and an understanding of what the software can do and how it can help with decision making is going to be essential.

Decisions on capital expenditure and it’s timing have become important over recent years with surprisingly frequent changes in the financial limits for claiming tax relief. An allowance of £100,000 became £25,000, then became £250,000 and will become £25,000 at the end of the year if no changes are announced shortly. Will these limits change as frequently going forward? We don’t know but information is needed on profits to make sure capital expenditure

“Farming for the future will for many mean a harvest of a different kind, producing power for the farm and perhaps to feed in to the grid” is incurred in the period when tax relief is maximised.

Why else might good financial information be needed? There have been a number of “once in a lifetime” events over recent years and we are being told to expect more of these going forward, whether in this country or overseas. The market place is global now. This year, again, many are dealing with floods. Tax is paid on past profits before the actual results for a year become known. Having early information on profits or otherwise for the financial year affected by such events can mean early action to prevent tax being paid when not necessary, in turn reducing the cash flow burden when times are not so good. Sometimes the effect of such events, if overseas for example, can be positive here and knowing the possible effect can aid the decision making process, for example whether or not to buy equipment.

Diversification has been taking place and will no doubt continue. Renewables have been the most recent addition to the scene. Farming for the future will for many mean a harvest of a different kind, producing power for the farm and perhaps to feed in to the grid. Where planning approval is needed perhaps this will be more forthcoming given weather events but tax planning is also needed again to make sure reliefs are not lost or impaired.

Renewables are the not the only means of diversification available, there are plenty of other routes that farmers have gone down in the past and there will be others in the future. Often these have other consequences to just producing another income stream, sometimes adverse consequences, which can be dealt with by perhaps a new business structure.

So from an accountants point of view farming for the future will mean continuous planning, regular contact with professionals before changes to make sure pitfalls are avoided and good information on which to base actions and decisions. Perhaps these have always been a requirement but the tools have not been as available. There is a saying in France that might sum this up, but I am not going there!

Randall & Payne Accountants www.randall-payne.co.uk

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PHOTOS: WWW.GEORGIEPHAIRPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK

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Beautifully tough vehicles Mitsubishi Motors in the UK has announced some great offers on its most popular and iconic vehicles, available at Cheltenham and Gloucester Mitsubishi. The special deals are being offered on the rugged and reliable L200 pick-up, innovative Outlander SUV and the legendary 4x4 Shogun.

You could be behind the wheel of a brand new Outlander for £249 a month – and benefitting from three years’ free servicing.

Intelligent, economical and luxurious, the latest-generation Outlander is packed with clever technological features. It has achieved a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating; boasts best-in-class fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions; and is lighter, quieter and more refined than ever.

What’s more, it offers impeccable ride comfort and handling.

Another famous member of the Mitsubishi line-up, the legendary Shogun, is now a more attractive buy than ever.

The seven-seater long wheelbase version of the car starts at just £28,599 with 0% APR. The Shogun has built up a reputation for being tough, reliable, perfect for towing with a go-anywhere

MARCH 2014

off-road capability; and has won countless awards too.

Appealing to drivers who demand a vehicle that can tackle the toughest and most inhospitable of terrains yet also deliver a thoroughly composed on-road drive, Shogun buyers can be sure that on top of being great off-road, the vehicle can meet the needs of families and business buyers.

Another special deal means that the rugged and reliable L200 Warrior (manual) is available to business users for just £189 a month, plus VAT, until March 31st, 2014.

For customers looking for the ultimate pick-up, there’s only one choice – Mitsubishi’s L200. It deserves that description for one very simple reason; it’s a vehicle that’s not only up to the job but goes beyond expectations.

The go-anywhere pick-up is tough enough to tackle any terrain and comes with a five-year/125,000 mile warranty.

And right now, customers at Cheltenham and Gloucester Mitsubishi can get behind the wheel at a special, reduced priced, starting at £14,999 plus VAT with 0% APR. Dale Bedwell, Brand Manager at

Cheltenham and Gloucester Mitsubishi, said: “We are delighted to let everyone know about the special offers that have just been introduced on L200, Outlander and Shogun.

“These are incredibly impressive vehicles and form a strong line-up of great deals here at Cheltenham and Gloucester Mitsubishi.

“We look forward to welcoming customers old and new and we will be happy to explain more about these exceptional vehicles.” CS For more information, call Cheltenham and Gloucester Mitsubishi on 01452 715870 or visit the showroom at 1 Vernon Court, Meteor Business Park, Cheltenham Rd E, Staverton, Gloucester GL2 9QG.

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The Diary of a farmer’s wife (or in my case, the wife of a farmer) Whatever you think a farmer’s wife should look like, think again!

Farmers’ wives come in many different guises:

By Sarah Speakman

THE DOES-IT-ALL FARMER’S WIFE

She is married to the farm first and the farmer second. She will effortlessly manage the day-to-day running of the farm alongside the farmer; from meeting the bank manager to lambing ewes, or bedding down cattle sheds to tractor driving for any given task.

She will have already planned tonight’s supper, as well as making lunch for all, looking after the multitude of muddy laundry as well.

The housework may suffer and straw and hay may well be omnipresent in the home, but neither she nor the farmer mind very much, as every other need has been catered for by this very capable and hardworking superwoman who always wears trousers, except for weddings and funerals.

THE FARMHOUSE HOME-MAKER

She lives for her AGA, making and baking for her farmer-husband, her family and any visitors who may drop by. Her role is to look after them all as well as their home, and making sure their every need is met. Her harvest tea-in-the-field is the best by far (all the farm-workers agree) and her cakes and tray-bakes are second-to-none. She takes great pride in her garden too, which is as immaculate and well looked after as her home. She is well turned out, but rarely dressy, which is just how she likes it. She is kind and understanding and will never complain; she enjoys her life for she’s at the top of her game, leaving no family or farmhouse stone unturned. This means when the work is done, she has the time and freedom to pop into town, have lunch with a friend or play the occasional game of tennis.

MARCH 2014

THE WIFE OF A FARMER

She is different from the traditional farmer’s wife, predominantly because she doesn’t make jam, she wears pretty shoes and owns more than one handbag.

She has had a successful career and now puts her economics degree to good use managing the farm accounts. She is a great cook and loves to entertain around the farmhouse table. She will always present many courses, showcasing her own culinary prowess as well as their farm’s own produce, while drinking home-grown sloe gin in ample quantity.

She loves her family and she loves to make the most of everything her farm life has to offer. But the wife of a farmer likes the best of both worlds; she likes to have her home-made cake and eat it.

Meaning she likes the finer things in life but loves equally the rough-and-ready farm lifestyle her world provides.

Regardless of where you sit in the farm-wifery stereotypes, one thing is certain. You will, from time-to-time, need to get your hands dirty, whether that’s bottle feeding lambs, delivering late-night sustenance to hard-working farmers, shifting bales or simply whipping up a batch of Mary Berry’s flapjacks. It’s more than just being a wife; it’s a lifestyle choice, and one that should not be taken lightly. Farming, in particular livestock farming, is a 365 days-a-year challenge.

TOP 10 TIPS for a Farmer’s Wife 1. Be capable and practical; you never know when you may be called upon to help out. Being able to drive a tractor is desirable, but not essential!

2. Always keep the kettle warm and a cake in the tin; after a morning toughing it out in the wind and rain, every farmer needs a cup of coffee and a piece of cake when he comes in to dry off.

3. Own a proper pair of wellies. You will need them.

4. Understand the farm will always come first!

5. Expect to spend the summer by yourself, just you and the children; harvest can take many months and farmers will work through the night, day-in-day-out, when they can, to get it done.

6. Be frugal! Conspicuous spending is ill-advised and frowned upon by many farmers who have their eye on the latest Massey Ferguson!

7. Be ready to help move livestock at any time. It is said that many a farm marriage is made or broken moving sheep or cattle!

8. Be prepared for your slow-cooking beef to be usurped by a newborn lamb in need of TLC and gentle incubation in the bottom oven of the AGA. 9. All meals must be able to be delayed or brought forward at a moment’s notice!

10. Be prepared for your entrepreneurial farm diversification ideas to be dismissed utterly, but reappear, completely endorsed, as someone else’s idea at a later date!

And day or night there will always be work that needs to be done. This means weekends are out and holidays limited.

But it is far from doom and gloom; yes, it’s tough for both farmer and wife, but what a playground for you and your children. Fields, ponds, woodlands and wildlife, all just there, all part of your back garden, calling you to stray from the footpaths that others cannot; and explore, build dens, light fires, toast marshmallows, catch tadpoles and follow animal tracks in the snow. What a wonderful life and I wouldn’t swap it for the world. CS

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we take a wry look at the people, p laces and ‘‘doings’ doings people, places of your your to wn and produce produce town fantastic t l imited edi tion fantastic limited edition p rints s that that reveal reveal it’s it’s prints quirky nature. nature. Available Available quirky at the e Moss Gallery Gallery in at Suffolks u area of The Suffolks area Cheltenham, t dr op in!

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m moss gallery g allery 7S Suffolk u uffolk Parade P arade Chel Cheltenham t tenham GL50 2AB tel l 01242 241646 www.curiouscityps.com www.cu uriouscityps.com

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dining in style Discover delicious recipes from our regular food writers, plus reviews of The Cotswoldsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; finest restaurants...

Sponsored by

Savills Cheltenham The Quadrangle | Cheltenham | GL50 1PZ

01242 548000 cheltenham@savills.com

savills.co.uk

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in Regent Street Cheltenham

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review

Restaurant Review

THE SPICE LODGE, Cheltenham Arriving by car to find ample, easy well- lit parking, ones first impressions of this restaurant are not what you may associate with an Indian. In fact far from the stereotype, the building is a Regency, detached property standing in its own grounds. It has an elegance that is enhanced by subtle lighting after dark.

Upon entering, we were welcomed with a smile to a smart reception area where the owner, Mohammed, greeted us and directed us towards the bar where we were seated and given menus. The bar is extensively stocked and well presented; our drinks order was taken and delivered while we perused the creative and innovative menu offering a selection of Pan Asian cuisine. Shortly after giving our order, we were shown to our table in the main restaurant, which was beautifully presented and had a basket of poppadums with a selection of accompaniments waiting to greet us.

The restaurant has an unassuming, elegant feel with great detail given to the stylish decor.

Our starter, a Thai medley consisting of; satay chicken, tiger prawns, onion rings, fish cakes, spring rolls with satay and sweet chilly dips and a delightful salad decoration garnish.

Our main course was a traditional deli style curry, cooked with roasted onion, garlic and cashew nut gravy and pilau rice. Alongside this we had a Thai Penang curry, cooked with bamboo shoots, lime leaves and coconut milk with plain rice. We chose lamb for the deli and chicken for the Penang; other options were beef and vegetable and several choices of rice; our meal was accompanied with a garlic naan bread.

We finished with a liqueur coffee although there was an extensive choice of desserts.

During our dinner we had a chilled, crisp glass of Chardonnay, which complimented the food perfectly.

The food was beautifully presented and full of flavour; the texture and MARCH 2014

PHOTO: ROB WHEATMAN

Mark Hopkins visited The Spice Lodge and told us all about his culinary delight...

“The food was beautifully presented and full of flavour; the texture and aroma sat on your senses with delicate ease...” aroma sat on your senses with delicate ease I was particularly impressed with the sliced succulent chicken as opposed to the chunks of meat normally associated with Indian cuisine. The rice was fluffy and the naan bread was thin and light and accompanied the dishes rather than overpowered them. The Spice Lodge chefs are from Nepal, Bangladesh and India and have worked all over the world in places like Dubai and Singapore, and they are happy to cook off menu, should you require that service.

The Spice Lodge makes great use of the space provided by the building.

On the ground floor there are two large eating areas and a separate bar area; the first floor offers two more eating areas that can be utilised as multi table or banquet venues, plus a big room with conference facilities.

The elegant and spacious restrooms are also on this level, whilst the third floor offers accommodation that can

uniquely make use of the restaurant by having your orders delivered to your suite. The building has been beautifully restored and decorated to balance both British and Asian traditions with a real flavour of Cheltenham; I particularly enjoyed the room names such as the Tivoli, the Montpelier and the Pump Room.

I highly recommended The Spice Lodge to readers; whether it be for catering for a romantic dinner for two or even a 200 person celebration such as wedding, a corporate function, a party and everything in between – it even has suites for you to stay in. CS

The Spice Lodge Montpellier Drive, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 1TY 01242 226300 www.spicelodge.co.uk

Meet our

Reviewers Mark and Rachel Hopkins passion is travelling and dining; they have eaten in some of the world’s most top restaurants when Mark was a professional American Footballer for Great Britain. They like nothing better than to find a gem of a restaurant off the beaten track.

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my diary

The

IMAGES BY CRAIG DERRICK PHOTOGRAPHY

Good Life

With lambing season upon us, Mandy Hall tells us all about the new additions to Cotswold Farm Park…

It’s been 12 months since I began writing my column for the wonderful Cotswold Style magazine. It’s been an absolute pleasure to share my monthly adventures with you and hopefully you’ve enjoyed reading my articles as much as I have loved writing them.

As you know, farming follows the seasons. Currently on the calendar is what I consider to be the most wonderful, magical time of the year for myself and all of my colleagues at the Farm Park... it’s lambing season!

The butterflies of excitement begin

at the start of February, whilst the rest of the Display Team and I prepare our very versatile Demonstration Barn, transforming it into a very organised space, which will be run with the precision of a maternity ward for the next 8 weeks.

If you have never witnessed this amazing act of nature, then you are seriously missing out. This is a must for your bucket list! Where else can you sit in the dry, on bales of straw and watch beautiful lambs being born, taking their first breath and steps in front of your

“Where else can you sit in the dry, on bales of straw and watch beautiful lambs being born, taking their first breath and steps in front of your very own eyes.”

very own eyes. We talk you through the process and cycle of lambing from start to finish, then afterwards we invite all our visitors to feed some of our slightly older lambs in our Touch Barn. Bottle feeding then continues for the rest of the year, taking place twice daily until the Farm Park season ends in December.

This afternoon when I arrived at the farm, I had the most wonderful surprise.

I was presented with the wonderful news that our Boer Nanny goat has just given birth to quadruplets. Our very skilled and knowledgeable Livestock Manager, Mike Caunter informs me that it’s a first for us at the Farm Park, so I wanted to take this opportunity to show them off to you all.

There is something very special about the lambing season. It reminds us that there are exciting things to come in the year ahead and brings the sense of hope for our loved ones to have a happy and healthy year.

Hopefully it won’t be long before the sun is shining on us…although I won’t hold my breath! CS The Cotswold Farm Park is open every day from 10.30am. Lambing will be taking place live in the Demonstration Barn until April 6th.

For more information visit www.cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk To be up with all the latest Farm Park gossip, follow Mandy on Twitter @mandyfarmpark

MARCH 2014

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reader competition

WIN two free tickets to the

Gatcombe Spring Horse Trials (and a visit to a Land Rover Experience Off Road Centre of your choice)

THE PRIZE

The lucky winner will receive:

THE LAND ROVER GATCOMBE SPRING HORSE TRIALS will take place over the weekend of 23RD/24TH MARCH 2014 The popular Land Rover sponsored event, held annually at the home of HRH The Princess Royal, Gatcombe Park, takes place on Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd March. The event features an entry of 250 on each day which includes a number of leading international riders. Starting at 9am on both days, the event will feature the dressage, show jumping and crosscountry phases running throughout the event. The event attracts many interesting shops to the trade stand area, which will include the Gatcombe Collection. At various times during both days, HRH The Princess Royal will present prizes to winners in each of the various sections. Amongst the leading international status riders competing at the event will be the UK’s leading rider, William Fox-Pitt along

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with, potentially, riders from 12 other countries. Thus, giving a truly international flavour to this popular local event.

This year the event celebrates its 22nd reader competition anniversary.

The event takes place on a course designed by HRH The Princess Royal and her event organiser Pattie Biden.

This course utilises a different area of the Gatcombe Park Estate to that used by the Festival of British Eventing which takes place in early August.

Gatcombe Park is situated at Hampton Fields, mid-way between Minchinhampton and Avening; the event will be signposted from both directions. Spectator admission is £6 for a car and all occupants. CS For information about the event visit www.gatcombehorsetrials.co.uk

• Two free admission tickets for Saturday 22nd March • A car pass for the VIP car park • A welcome info pack • Hosted lunch for two in the VIP hospitality unit • Personal hosting through the day • An exclusive chauffeured tour of the course in a Land Rover • Meet some of the leading riders and officials • Half day for two at a Land Rover Off Road Driving Centre of your choice

To win just answer this question Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal’s daughter, Zara, has recently given birth to a baby girl called Mia. What is her middle name?

1. Georgie 2. Grace 3. Gwyneth

Please email your answer to editor@stylemagazines.co.uk before 14th March 2014.

(Please state on your entry if you do not wish for your details to be passed on to a third party)

MARCH 2014

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animals

Pussies Galore!

Alison Jones of Vets on the Park offers all cat lovers invaluable advice about kittens Unless you’re planning to breed we highly recommend that you should have your pet cat neutered. Traditionally both male and female cats have been neutered at around 6 months of age, however, new research and advice from ‘The Cat Group’ argues that neutering at around 4 months should now be recommended.

The Cat Group is a collection of professional organisations dedicated to feline welfare through the development and promotion of policies and recommendations on the care of all cats.

Neutering is a surgical procedure performed under a general anaesthetic.

As far as surgical procedures go, it is routine and at Vets on the Park we carry out many hundreds of them every year. Your cat will only be in the practice for the day although we do like to see your cat again the next day to make sure they have fully recovered from the anaesthetic and dispense further pain control if needed.

Ideally females should be neutered (called spaying) at around this time of

year before they start ‘calling’. Entire female cats in a suburban environment can cause a lot of nuisance as their high pitched wailing calls will attract male tom cats and this may lead to spraying, fighting and unwanted kittens. Spaying means that female cats won’t come into season and start ‘calling’ and so cannot get pregnant. We remove both the ovaries and the womb. This also protects the cat against ovarian cancer and womb infections later in life.

If neutered (castrated), male cats are less likely to stray, fight and spray urine to mark their territory. This makes them

better house companions and keeps them healthier. Cat fights can be very serious and this is a major way that diseases such as FIV and FeLV are spread to other cats, so neutering really does have health benefits for the boys as well as the girls!

At Vets on the Park, we recommend that all kittens are neutered at around 16 weeks old. This means most kittens should be scheduled for surgery around 2-3 weeks after their vaccination course is complete. Modern anaesthetics and improved nursing care means this is a safe, pain free procedure. All cats are given pain relief before their operation and most wake up and eat within a few minutes. To encourage responsible pet ownership, at Vets on the Park, we currently have a very special Spring offer price of just £30 for boys and £50 for the girls which is more than 30% discount on our usual prices.

If you would like regular free pet healthcare information from Alison and her team then please visit our website and sign up for our free monthly newsletter. CS

% 30 FF O

t ca ur h yo rc g a in M er ng ut uri ne d

MARCH 2014

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The Boathouse Tewkesbury

Rocking the Boat! - Even more reasons to visit us this winter...

Tel - 01684 275714 Web - www.theboathousepub.co.uk

Happy Hour

Mother’s Day

Traditional Sunday Lunches” EVERY SUNDAY FROM NOON

MARCH

Let our bartenders cheer you up with one their wonderful creations. 241 on all our cocktails Monday to Friday 4-7pm

MARCH 30TH

Enjoy Rib of beef, pork loin or Give her what she wants this free-range chicken provided by local Mothering Sunday by taking her to butcher David Dudley. All served the Boathouse.

Almost certainly with duck fat roast potatoes, seasonal mummy's favourite restaurant. vegetables and red wine gravy.

The ‘Missus’ will love this one...

Wine and champagne tasting competition runs the last Thursday of every month An evening of Cheese boards, Antipasti and lots of wine!

Call us to join in the fun The Boathouse Mythe Road, Tewkesbury, Gloucester GL20 6EB www.facebook.com/theboathousepub

@boathousepub

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recipes

Dear Mum

with Food Writer Shelle Duffin

Having recently spotted the first daffodils of the season, it’s a reminder to many that a particular occasion is approaching – Mother’s Day One of the only days in which our beloved mothers relax whilst we, the children, take over their daily chores and pamper them with delicious meals, starting with breakfast in bed served with a freshly picked bunch of daffodils.

As a child, it was an opportunity to show off a ‘creative side’ with homemade cards

and edible gifts. I would like to thank my Mother here, for keeping up the pretence that my artistic skills were so good; I could have potentially become the next Van Gogh. Having recently discovered some of these cards, I’ve realised to my dismay, that you aren’t just an excellent Mother, but a talented actress also.

This is a straightforward dish to put together, placing emphasis on creativity to produce showstopper results that will make any mother proud.

Serves 4 INGREDIENTS 1.5kg leg of lamb, deboned 1 bulb of garlic 1 large onion, peeled and chopped into quarters Olive oil 3 bay leaves 5 sprigs of rosemary Cook’s Note ~ ask your butcher for a piece of string for tying and to demonstrate how to tie the meat up once it’s been stuffed For the stuffing (makes enough for additional stuffing balls) 150g dried apricots, finely chopped 150g dried prunes, finely chopped 4 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed Bunch of fresh parsley, roughly chopped 200g breadcrumbs 2 oranges, zest and juice 1tbsp olive oil 1 egg, beaten

Salt & pepper 200g pork sausage meat (to make extra stuffing balls) For delicious gravy 1tbsp plain flour 1pint lamb stock 200ml red wine 2tbsp redcurrant jelly Salt & Pepper METHOD • Preheat the oven to 200ºC • To make the stuffing, mix together the apricots, prunes, garlic, parsley, breadcrumbs, olive oil and the orange juice and zest in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Add the beaten egg and combine all the ingredients together.

• Lay the lamb out onto a board, skin side facing down. Rub the meat with olive oil and season.

• Place half of the stuffing in the middle of the lamb, and then roll it up and tie using the string the butcher provided.

• To prepare the lamb for roasting, rub the meat with olive oil. Slice 2 garlic cloves lengthways and chop 2 sprigs of rosemary into inch-sized

pieces. Using a sharp knife, carefully make several incisions in the skin of the meat. Insert either a piece of garlic or rosemary into each incision.

Season with salt and pepper.

• Place the remaining garlic and rosemary into a roasting tin with the bay leaves and onion and position the lamb on top.

Roast in the oven an 1½ hour for medium; slightly less if you prefer your lamb pink. Rest the meat for 10 minutes before carving.

• Add the sausage meat to the remainder of the stuffing and roll into small balls. Bake on a greased baking tray for 30 minutes until crisp and golden.

• To make the gravy, add the flour to the roasting tray, stirring to let it absorb all the juices to form a paste.

Turn the heat up to medium and gradually add the stock and wine, making sure you whisk constantly – you don’t want to serve your mother lumpy gravy!

• Bring to the boil and then reduce to a medium heat, simmering for 10 minutes until it thickens.

• Add the redcurrant jelly and season to taste.

• Strain through a sieve and drizzle over the lamb. Serve with roast potatoes and seasonal vegetables. CS

For more recipe ideas and articles, follow me on Twitter – @Shelle_Duffin or Facebook – Shelle Duffin – Food Writer/Cook, plus check out my blog – myboiledeggsandsoldiers@blogspot.com MARCH 2014

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Recipe file

Stuffed Leg of Lamb

Mother’s Day for me, has become more of a test on whether I‘ve accomplished the art of domestic competence, if my Mother has succeeded in teaching me the skills of cleaning, cooking and ironing.

Unfortunately in this case, cooking has been the only triumph and the one I am going to place emphasis on here.

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Fantastic panoramic views over Painswick Valley

Freshly cooked food and local real ales make a visit to The Edgemoor Inn a real treat...

The Edgemoor offers an impressive selection of home-cooked dishes, including many vegetarian and fresh fish options, along with homemade favourites and grills.

The lounge bar, has a light and modern feel which extends to the whole property.

Outside on the patio area is a perfect place for a snack or quiet drink whilst admiring the panoramic views over Painswick and its glorious countryside.

The Edgemoor Inn offers the very best in traditional Cotswold pub and restaurant dining, warm welcome in delightful surroundings with well-presented homecooked food. This is a combination that’s hard to beat.

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

Call us today

01452 813 576

www.edgemoor-inn.com

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####

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

Your perfect Cotswold retreat

A luxurious Cotswold manor with award -winning dining, a health club, log fires and 600 years of history N Enjoy old world charm combined with every modern comfort N Roaring log fires, massive oak beams and a wealth of orignal features N 26 bedrooms each with its own unique decor and furniture N Award-winning dining in the AA rosetted John Greville Restaurant N Traditional Sunday Lunch served every weekend N Beautiful gardens with panoramic views over five counties N A fabulous heath club with pool, gym, sauna and steam room plus tennis and croquet lawn No offer can be combined with any other offer and all offers are subject to availability

You’ll find more offers at www.classiclodges.co.uk/charingworthmanor including details of our sensational wedding offers

Special Spring Offers for 2011 Weekday Bed and Breakfast A Classic Room and hearty breakfast from £99 per couple per night. Offer available until 31.3.2014.

Bubbly March Warmer Treat yourself to 2 nights dinner, bed and breakfast with a bottle pf Prosecco in your room. From £149 per person.

Sleepy March Sunday Stayover Extend the weekend and stay in a Classic room on Sunday for £50 when two people take Sunday dinner in our rosetted restaurant.

Gourmet Dinner: Mar 7, April 4, May 2 Held on the first Friday of every month.

Five courses: £55 per person including Champagne on arrival.

Room from £85 including breakfast.

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MARCH 2014

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Mother’s Day Lunch March 30th

To book your table for Mother’s Day, please contact www.thedaffodil.com or call 01242 700 055 or email eat@thedaffodil.com

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Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re having a

GRAND MARCH Throughout March we are offering huge reductions on our large selection of top name grand pianos.

Select from models by Yamaha, Bentley,

Bluthner, Steinway etc.

Prices for a NEW Baby Grand start from only ÂŁ4,995.00 including delivery to your Cotswold home (conditions apply).

We'll even take your old piano in part exchange.

So don't delay! Drive, walk, run or even march to our showrooms in Winchcombe Street.

We are located 5 minutes from Marks and Spencer where we are open Mondays to Saturdays from 9.00am-5.00pm

Musical Instruments (Cheltenham) Ltd Est 1965 incorporating Cheltenham Piano Centre

52 Winchcombe Street | Cheltenham | Glos | GL52 2ND | Tel. 01242 517635 | email: mic@globalnet.co.uk

www.cheltenhampianocentre.co.uk

Tel: 01452 840116 www.bordeaux-undiscovered.co.uk

Owne d Borde by Nick Ste aux-U ndisco phens Glouc vere es wine s tershire base d is a upplie d on-lin r selecti on of offering a fa e high q ntastic from s uali ma winem ll, skilled B ty wines ordea akers to ux Chate Grand aux.

Cru Nick h a experi s over 35 ye en a wine e ce and is a rs of xp re reputa ert with an spected tio in conno n as a critic ternational isseur , and ch wine passio ef. n good for the value He has a food a nd win of pairing e.

Hillfield House | Eldersfield | Gloucestershire | GL19 4NN

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food and drink

Clairet - A Rosé with History and Pedigree Bordeaux is renowned for producing high quality Rosé and Clairet wines that are delicious to drink and are also great with food. Top flight, Grand Cru Classé Chateaux, make Rosé alongside their prestigious red wines. These wines obviously come at a price and some are quite difficult to get hold of; with some chateaux only making them in certain vintages and when conditions are right.

Good examples are Rosé des Tourelles de Longueville from Chateau Pichon Baron (Pauillac) and Rosé de Haut Bailly from Chateau Haut Bailly (Pessac Leognan).

However there are excellent Rosés and Clairets to be found amongst the Petits Chateaux across the board in Bordeaux that don't break the bank, such as Chateau Ballan Larquette Bordeaux Clairet, Chateau Lamothe Vincent Rosé and Chateau Roques du Mauriac Rosé.

Bordeaux Rosés are made using the Saignée method which uses red grapes but only allows the juice to remain in contact with them for a short time. This way, the wine maker creates a pale red wine full of the aromas and flavours of the red grapes but with a totally different character. They are versatile wines that have a good market in Asia, notably Japan, due to the fact that they can accompany a broad spectrum of flavours.

These crisp and elegant wines have the fruit and body to support meat dishes and the acidity to match seafood. They lack the tannins of red wine and can be served chilled at the same temperatures for white wines. Bordeaux Rosés are characteristically well balanced wines: smooth, rounded and freshly aromatic.

Thanks to their adaptability these wines can handle hot and spicy foods as well as cream and cheese based dishes.

Clairet is a speciality of Bordeaux and wine makers there have been making this wine for centuries. It is set apart quite distinctly from Rosé by its vibrant, deep colour, bouquet, body and flavour. If we step back in time red wine enthusiasts might be surprised to learn that Britain was drinking Clairet from the Middle ages right up to the 18th century as it was the ‘Red’ wine of the day. The word Clairet is MARCH 2014

This month, Nick Stephens of Bordeaux Wines reveals some interesting facts about Clairet wines... the French for ‘clear ‘and this is where our word Claret comes from.

Bordeaux Clairets are also made using the Saignée method but the wine sits on the crushed grapes for longer. This allows the Clairet to reach the depth of colour and fruit that it is so well known for. With very little tannins, they offer a rich and stimulating bouquet and have a moderate tannic structure. In the mouth they are voluptuous, velvety and rich. Bordeaux Clairets can accompany a wide range of dishes particularly ham, pork, chicken, fish, seafood and an array of cold meats.

They also pair very well with feathered game and rabbit.

Country Rabbit Stew

Serves 5-6 Ingredients 3 tbsp plain Flour 2 tbsp chopped fresh Thyme Salt and freshly ground black Pepper 15g Butter 2 tbsp sunflower Oil 2 young wild rabbits jointed into 10 pieces – Fore Legs, Rear Legs and Saddle 125g Lardons 2 Onions, chopped 500ml dry Cider 300ml chicken or vegetable Stock 2 Bay leaves 350g carrots cut into julienne strips 150g frozen Peas

Method • Preheat the oven to 170ºC. Gas Mark 3.

Place the flour, thyme, a good pinch of salt and plenty of pepper into a large freezer bag and add the rabbit shaking well to coat all the meat. Heat the butter with 1 tbsp of the oil in a large frying pan and add the joints, frying until browned on all sides. Place the leg and thigh

portions into a large ovenproof casserole but leave the saddle portions , loosely covered, to one side to be added later in the cooking time.

• Add a little more oil to the pan and fry the lardons until browned and crispy then add to the casserole. Add the remaining oil to the pan and fry the onions. Add them to the casserole and sprinkle over any remaining flour from the bag.

• Pour half of the cider into the frying pan and stir well to remove all the sediment and then pour into the casserole with the remaining cider, stock and Bay leaves; stir well. Cover and cook in the oven for 30 minutes.

• Remove the casserole from the oven and add the saddle pieces, making sure that they are well covered with the stock.

Return to the oven and cook for a further 2 hours. Add the carrots and cook for a further 30 minutes.

• Check that the meat is tender (falling off the bones) and transfer the casserole to the hob. Add the peas and bring to a fast simmer to reduce and thicken the liquid to the consistency of gravy.

• Check the seasoning and serve with crusty bread. CS Please contact me at nick.stephens@bordeauxundiscovered.co.uk Telephone: 0800 8766958 www.bordeaux-undiscovered.co.uk

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FREE rooms offer when you dine

Forget taking a taxi home when you dine at the Dial House in Bourton on the Water.

On Wednesday and Thursday throughout March and April we are offering free classic rooms when you dine with us (subject to availability).

Available when you book our signature tasting menu with a champagne aperitif and a flight of classy wines to match each course at £99 per person.

What the critics are saying...

‘The dishes at the Dial House are exquisite, modelling inventive combinations to bring you remarkables plates of food.’

‘Hiding within the village's oldest building is one of the region's best restaurants... The Dial House is a real find, classy, clever and creative.’

Call us on 01451 822 244 to reserve your table now.

www.dialhousehotel.com

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review

Countryside Chic & Absolute Glamour

The Elan Spa at The Greenway Hotel Located on the outskirts of the Regency town of Cheltenham, The Greenway is a 16th Century luxury Elizabethan manor house hotel and spa. The hotel, with its warm Cotswold stone exterior draped in ivy, is the picture of English country charm and lies in eight acres of stunning grounds with views over the rolling Cotswold Hills. The grandfather clock ticks as you enter through stone archways into a beautiful entrance hall with wooden floors, an open fire and a décor of soft golds and honeys.

Creating a complete spa experience, the Elan Spa at The Greenway Hotel & Spa is an oasis of tranquility and relaxation. The decor takes inspiration from the Cotswold location and is the perfect combination of countryside chic and absolute glamour with its exposed brickwork, old beams, vibrant colours and decadent products.

Offering outstanding service and indulgent pampering in a truly opulent setting, the Elan Spa provides their guests with luxury treatments and facilities whilst also offering local residents the opportunity to become an exclusive member. Memberships range from peak, offpeak, joint and MARCH 2014

“The grandfather clock ticks as you enter through stone archways into a beautiful entrance hall with wooden floors, an open fire and a décor of soft golds and honeys.” drive time, offering something for everyone.

Facilities include stylish treatment rooms, a stunning hydrotherapy pool, a state-of-the-art fitness suite, a studio for classes, sauna, steam room and sanarium, experience showers and an al fresco hot-tub, the Champagne Nail Bar and a retail boutique.

The Champagne Nail Bar is, quite simply, the perfect place to treat your hands and feet to a pamper session with our beauty therapists and what better way to enjoy a first class beauty treatment than with a glass of Champagne in hand! CS

The Greenway Hotel Cheltenham, GL51 4UE 01242 862352 www.thegreenwayhotelandspa.com

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competition

WIN a Hotel Chocolat Chocolate Tasting Adventure for two Show your mother how much you love her by entering our competition Yes, you read that correctly. Hotel Chocolat is offering two tickets to attend one of their Chocolate Tasting Adventures For You & Mum. Five runner ups will win a box of chocolates worth £20 (pictured above). How delicious does that sound?.

Here is a little bit more about this amazing adventure...

Hotel Chocolat’s ‘Chocolate Tasting Adventures’ have been created especially for chocolate lovers who would like to take the next step in their appreciation of chocolate – gaining delicious insider knowledge and tasting tips.

Over two wonderful hours, you will

To enter, simply answer the following question:

Who wrote ‘Charlie & The Chocolate Factory’? discover the best ways to get to know chocolate, how to taste it, when to taste it and what to look out for. As you progress through the experience you will also discover how to pick out the nuances of flavour and texture influenced by such things as the type of cocoa, terroir and conching time.

Please email your answer along with your to editor@stylemagazines.co.uk

Winners will be chosen at random and will be notified by email on Friday 21st March 2014. All prizes will need to be collected from Hotel Chocolat, 56 Promenade, Cheltenham, GL50 1LY

THE FALCON PAINSWICK

Dating back to 1554, The Falcon is a small select hotel and restaurant situated in the beautiful Cotswolds town of Painswick.

The Shires Suite with it’s own courtyard is ideal for small weddings, christenings, celebratory parties and business conferences.

Whether you are looking for stylish accommodation in Painswick for a well deserved break in the Cotswolds or somewhere to pop in for morning coffee, afternoon tea, a delicious freshly prepared meal in our restaurant, or a function venue for a special occasion or a business meeting – you are assured of a warm and welcoming atmosphere at The Falcon.

New Street, Painswick, Gloucester GL6 6UN Telephone: 01452 814222 Fax: 01452 813377 Email: info@falconpainswick.co.uk

www.falconpainswick.co.uk

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000 Paul Sutherland March 14:Layout 1

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fitness

The Sense of

Self-Defence What can someone expect to learn from one of your classes?

Simple and effective techniques which will help in self defense situations, they will teach you how to be smart and safe.

I utilize techniques from various martial arts in which I have trained nearly 30 years. A true mix of only the effective things that work from Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Kickboxing, Boxing & Muay Thai.

What is the best way to identify an attacker’s weak point?

The best way to identify weak points is by utilizing things like joint locks and manipulations which work by technique and leverage and not strength and most females will not be as physically strong as a potential attacker. To use joint locks and manipulations takes time to master so continual training on these specifics is greatly needed.

What should I look for when choosing a self-defense class?

The first thing is to find an experienced instructor; ask about their martial arts background etc before enrolling in classes. Short courses are not the answer as they can give people a false sense of security that they can defend themselves but it takes continual training and skills work to even stand a chance I would rather train with just women, is that possible?

Most definitely. Not every woman wants to train in mixed classes, so at Trojan Free Fighters we have specific ladies only classes, a self defense class will be starting soon. The daytime sessions are taught by myself and we already have ladies only kickboxing and fitness classes taught by Sahra Ewin Monday’s and Thursday’s between 6-7pm.

What would be your top tips to women who are ever out by themselves?

The most important thing is common sense. Always let someone know where you are. If out on your own and using taxi services etc always use a reputable company. When out socializing and MARCH 2014

Photography by Rob Wheatman

Paul Sutherland

Paul Sutherland of Trojan Free Fighters, offers some invaluable self defence advice and tells us why we should get involved in one of their classes

drinking make sure you keep your drinks with you. When walking, use well lit streets where possible at night, and busy main roads during daytimes. CS Paul Sutherland at Trojan Free Fighters Unit 23 Lansdown Ind Est, Gloucester Road, Cheltenham, GL51 8PL www.trojanfreefighters.com

If you would like to put your name down for the upcoming classes, find out about info and schedule please contact paul on 07976001161 or email

paul.sutherland@trojanfreefighters.com

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The biggest dream you can have in National Hunt Racing is to have a horse good enough to run at the Cheltenham Festival. For the big battalions of the game, it’s a dream that’s realised season in and season out.

For a small training yard that houses just 17 horses, it’s a fairytale to have just one horse heading to Cheltenham, let alone two. The dream is well and truly alive for the Worcestershire yard of James Evans and the Cheltenham based owners of Trackmate who lines up in the Pertemps Final on March 13th. James also has the progressive Softsong going to the Festival for the Coral Cup. Both horses hold excellent chances at what are the Olympics of the Jumping game.

I last interviewed the connections of Trackmate shortly after his impressive win at Aintree in May. What lay ahead was a victory on a famous stage in the Pertemps Qualifier at the Cheltenham Showcase Meeting in October.

“Barry/ James/ Martin – When we last spoke to you all in the summer after Trackmate’s Aintree win, would you have dreamed that you would be heading to the greatest show on turf with a live chance?

Barry: We knew that Toby (as he’s known at the yard) was starting to show more promise after each run. He loves his work at home and we had to give him a try at Cheltenham after the Aintree win. Deep down we were all hoping he could show the form he did when winning at Aintree, but you really have to try and manage your expectations. The little fella just blew us all away that day. We are all absolutely delighted to have qualified for a race at the Festival in March. We have a chance, all being well we will get there

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PHOTO: MICHAEL HARRIS 07966 963935

“Trackmate has the want, the appetite, the trainer, the jockey and the heart to bless us with another dream.”

Trackmate (Middle) en route to winning The Pertemps Qualifier

with the little horse with a big heart.

James: His win at Aintree told us we had a serious horse so the summer campaign was shelved and all our discussions were based on working to The Cheltenham Festival.

We thought he’d like Cheltenham but he loved Aintree so the Stayers Hurdle there was probably our main target. The little chap broke the track record in the Pertemps Qualifier at Cheltenham in October, which in itself was a dream. To go to the Final now with a live chance is the best feeling in the world.

Martin: We have been in syndicates with other horses and the dream is now being fulfilled. His first win was enough to tick a box that needed to be ticked for us, after many years of

other horses not quite getting there.

Trackmate has given us the occasional low but he has now showing us what a true Racehorse he is, he loves to be out there on the gallops and definitely loves being at the track, he’s aptly named I guess. After Aintree I don’t think we gave him the credit he deserved as he won so well, but I guess that kept our expectation in-tact for his Cheltenham bow. He now deserves his crack at the festival and he could just do it!

Tell us about his win in the qualifier?

It was a very brave performance; talk us through the race and what it was like to walk into the hallowed Winners’ Enclosure” Barry: I think we (Owners: Barry, MARCH 2014

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racing style with cathryn fry

PHOTO: MICHAEL HARRIS 07966 963935

Below: Connections of Trackmate

“After Aintree I don't think we gave him the credit he deserved as he won so well, but I guess that kept our expectation in-tact for his Cheltenham bow. He now deserves his crack at the festival and he could just do it!”

Martin, John and Tina Porter, Deni Harper Adams, Tony Preece) were torn whether he would like the undulating ground and hill of Cheltenham or not.

However, we felt we had to give it a go.

It was a tough race and he had weave his way around a few and even go through the middle of a stack of horses as he was coming from the rear and was blocked out a few times. He wrote his own script after he turned the corner and was looking up the hill of the finishing straight. He ran the race that was nearly an exact repeat of how he won at Aintree. It was a very brave performance by horse and jockey.

Struggling to describe the feeling of winning at Cheltenham as it was shock to me! But both horse and jockey received a very warm welcome MARCH 2014

when they walked into the winning enclosure. Also it was great for James and Jane as it was their first win on the hallowed turf.

James: Jane (James’ Wife) and I were confident he was in good order but this was a big test and he hadn’t run for 154 days. Liam (Treadwell – Jockey) knows Trackmate so well and got him settled in the midfield where he jumped beautifully. Although the pace was strong there were plenty of horses in with a chance over on the far side; but Trackmate seemed to be getting bullied out of things by some of the bigger horses. At the hurdle at the top of the hill, Trackmate was squeezed up going into it and things weren’t looking too good. Horse and jockey then decided to get the gloves off – enough was enough. Liam drove him into the hurdle – Trackmate barged two other horses out of the way and came down the hill back on the bridle.

They were still a long way behind though and still seemed to have too much to do.

Trackmate pinged the next two hurdles and turning into the straight off he went.

He would not be denied and battled to the front in the last fifty yards to break the track record.

Walking back to the Winners’ Enclosure was a great feeling – I was blowing much harder than Trackmate having followed him up that famous hill like Usain Bolt!

Martin: Jane (Evans) sat us down after Aintree and said he will fly up the hill, he did, very powerfully and in the great hands of Liam (Treadwell). Trackmate is brave in running and Liam can control his enthusiasm, he knows him well and steered him home, the fit healthy engine below him just took off. What Winners’ Enclosure? Too many tears in my eyes to see what was going on! Fantastic feeling!

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racing style with cathryn fry

Trackmate in the Winners Enclosure

“Barry / Martin: You’re from Cheltenham (and so are your co owners). What does it mean to have won at Cheltenham and to be heading to the Festival? Isn’t that every owners dream?”

Barry: It is every owners dream. Maybe I’m biased as I’m from Cheltenham but I honestly believe every owner of a racehorse that loves national Hunt racing would love to be able to get their horse to the festival. We also bought the horse (very cheaply!) from the sales at Cheltenham racecourse, so it really is a story of local owners, local horse, possibly going to run at the greatest show on turf at the local track.

Hopefully all the local people will get behind the wee fella and cheer him on!

However, saying all this there is still 6 weeks to go, so it is nervous times. He still has to get into the race without being balloted out. Plus, he must avoid an interrupted training schedule to get there as fit as he can be. Whilst these wonderful animals are very intelligent they also can be pretty clumsy at times, so we hope he doesn’t injure himself before March. We all have our fingers crossed.

Martin: Agree with every word above.

We are very proud to be from Cheltenham and now we can say a Cheltenham winner no matter what, but to say a Cheltenham Festival winner,

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well that’s just crazy talk isn’t it!

Trackmate has the want, the appetite, the trainer, the jockey and the heart to bless us with another dream.

“James – Trackmate seems to be strengthening up every time I see him, which must bode well. Plus having been to Cheltenham and done it must give you confidence on the run up to the Festival?”

Trackmate has continued to improve throughout his career and is now the finished article.

He has relished the hurly burly of the two big field handicaps we have run him in, but is still fresh, progressive and unexposed. The Festival comes at exactly the right time for him. He picked up an injury when winning at Cheltenham in October. So he now goes to The Pertemps Final without a prep run. He goes well fresh, however and we are confident that we can get him there with a great chance.

“James – You’re also heading to the Festival with Softsong who was an impressive ten length winner on his debut for you, how is he and what is his aim?”

Softsong is a classy horse and after a good break in the Autumn, won easily on his first run for us at Doncaster.

With the ground so bad at the moment

we have decided to give him a run on the Flat at Kempton, before going for The Coral Cup at The Festival.

“James – how many times did you ride at the Festival as a jockey and how many runners have you had at Cheltenham?”

I had about a dozen rides at The Festival but only managed one place on Gambling Prince – finishing 3rd in The Triumph Hurdle. I did ride a few winners there at the other meetings.

We’ve had 7 runners at Cheltenham.

1 win, a 2nd and a 3rd. We’ve never had a Festival entry before. CS

James Evans will be appearing on the panel of the JPFestival Cheltenham Preview Night at Copa in Regent Street on March 6th. The event is sponsored by Starsports.

Alongside James will be: Rory Delargy (Timeform Radio), Nick Watts (Racing Post) Luke Tarr (Starsports) and Myself. Event is chaired by JP. The Wine Tipster will also be appearing in the interval.

Cash bar, free drink on arrival and a prize draw. Tickets are £14. Available on the night or please see: www.jpfestival.com Cathryn Fry Twitter @cathrynfry

MARCH 2014

TO BUY OR TO LEASE

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by Kai Keeling of ACS Leasing

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sporting style

It’s Only Rain

PHOTO: Thousand Word Media

Shane Duff reveals how a spot of rain doesn’t dampen anyone’s spirits on the football pitch...

“The lads in a relationship who do what they want and play in any game available to them will probably just end up single!”

All this rain is killing people’s chances to participate in sport at weekends as fixtures are being continuously cancelled due to waterlogged pitches. The weather has got so bad recently that many transport links have even been affected Being a coach I meet lots or parents and they often tell me how much hassle it causes at home when their child has their training or match cancelled; from tears to tantrums. Parents have to find an alternative way for their child to burn off their unspent energy that they have built up in anticipation.

The back log of fixtures and overuse of pitches in the coming months will not be much fun for all involved.

Adult sport fixtures that normally fill a Saturday afternoon are now taking place midweek, so that games are not entirely missed, which will no doubt cause a number of issues at home. All the fellas out there that have managed to incorporate Saturday afternoon football as part of their weekly ritual will now have a dilemma on their hands.

Disappearing off on a week night to play a game that should have been on a weekend, will be the start of a few interesting conversations, I fear. Women who wear the trousers in a relationship

will dictate whether their partner is ‘allowed’ out to play, causing the lad to cop a whole load of abuse off his team mates for being ‘bullied’. All good dressing room banter. The lads in a relationship who do what they want and play in any game available to them will probably just end up single! The coming months will be a test in the art of negotiation for some folk. Good luck to you all who this applies to.

A good friend of mine, ‘down under’, in Australia is having the opposite weather. I received a text saying, ‘We are all good here, hoping for a bit of rain tonight, first drop for two months really! It is so dry and it has been too hot but hopefully on a downward spiral now’. Amazing the two extremes we can get and the grass always seems to be greener on the other side. But just being able to see the grass would be a good thing for us right now. CS @duffo16

SOCCER

SCHOOL

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

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BENEFITS OF PLANT BASED FOODS You may have seen and read about Beyonce and Jay-Z’s 21 day vegan diet, which helped get themselves into shape. Tempted to try it? Laura Milne, reveals what such a challenge involves...

Now a vegan diet isn’t for everyone, including me. There is nothing I like more than a roast leg of lamb or homemade burger on the BBQ but I do appreciate and believe there are some great benefits from living by some of the vegan rules.

A pure vegan consumes only plant based foods – no meat, poultry or fish plus no animal by products such as milk, eggs, honey, butter etc. They consume great amounts of vegetables, leafy greens, nuts, seeds, fruit, grains and legumes. Many people would find this incredibly hard and boring but I can tell you there is so much you can do with vegetables to make it incredibly tasty and satisfying.

Personally, I would not recommend a totally vegan diet as there is great risk from becoming deficient in certain nutrients such as protein, omega 3, vit b12, iron, calcium, amino acids and Vit D. This can lead to health issues including: depression, anaemia, tiredness and some cancers. Many vegans are absolutely fine as they research well, enjoy cooking and choose a varied diet and use supplements.

Often, many vegetarians and vegans rely on soya and vegetarian alternatives such as quorn; these foods are genetically modified and can often have many additives and toxins added to them.

Soya is a high estrogenic food and can cause fat storage around the hips and thighs in women and in men on the moobs, too much can also lead to estrogen related disorders.

Meat and diary are great sources of

good fats, protein, Vit B12, iron and calcium plus they are very easy to get into your diet. Perhaps try having at least one full day with no meat; I try to have at least 3-4 non-meat and dairy dishes.

Here is why...

• You will consume more vegetables – in turn you will increase your health, immune system, reduce your risk of cancer and heart disease and ultimately, you will feel fantastic!

• Vegetables, legumes and nuts are high in fibre so will help aid and improve your digestive system • You will consume higher levels of most vitamins and minerals than you would on your normal daily diet.

• You could save money; vegetables tend to be much cheaper than meat and diary • Meat and dairy can be more difficult for the body to breakdown and digest.

Therefore a day without them will give your digestive system a rest.

I never recommend fad diets; it is a quick fix that shocks your body, it’s not something you can or will want to maintain forever and 99% of the time the products contains additives, sugar and toxins.. I’m about health and getting your body and mindset healthy. Doing a 21 day vegan plan is dramatic, and unless you are doing it for moral reasons and with the aim to be vegan 100% forever I wouldn’t recommend it. By understanding the great benefits of the vegan diet and bringing it into your weekly lifestyle, you will be building a great basis of health, nourishment and something that will last - not just a quick fix!

Recipe Even avid meat lovers will love this and not miss the meat

Serves 4 2 carrots peeled and sliced, 50g red lentils (raw), 1 jar of pasata, 1 onion chopped, 1lb of pumpkin or butternut squash chopped into cubes, 1 garlic clove, 1 teaspoon of each cumin, coriander & turmeric, 1 teaspoon of chilli, 12floz veg stock (organic, clean, wheat & gluten free) Instructions 1. Heat coconut oil in pan.

2. Add onions, garlic, carrots & spices and cook for around 5minutes 3. Stir in lentils, pasata and stock 4. Bring to the boil and cover and simmer for 20mins.

5. Add in the chilli and the pumpkin and cook for around 15-20mins until it is soft 6. Serve on a bed of spinach

VEGAN DAY MENU EXAMPLE

Breakfast – Homemade granola – made with seeds, nuts, coconut and dried fruit.

Serve with coconut or almond milk or a baked avocado salad.

Lunch – Sweet potato & Red Pepper soup. With a big salad of spinach, avocado, pinenuts, tomatoes and olives.

Dinner – Lentil & Butternut Squash Moroccan Stew (see recipe above) CS

If you want to know more about my story then you can read it at www.laura-milne.co.uk/mystory Contact Laura on E: laura@finalfitnessformula.com T: 07737209523

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fitness

HOW TO GET THE BODY YOU WANT

with Jodie Molyneux

Do you want to tone your arms, trim down your tummy or blitz your love handles? Then try these three intense fat burning workout...

Have a read through these high impact exercises, which will burn fat and help you get fitter and more toned.

WEIGHT TRAINING: Weight training – YES weight training – WILL burn fat! Although cardio will burn more calories, resistance exercises that involve major muscle groups like lunges, squats, press-ups, planks, dead lifts, jumping jacks, burpees and tricep dips, are all brilliant for building muscle and tone.

Plus you will also burn fat during the workout, meaning that you will continue to burn fat for several hours afterwards because of the effect the exercises have on your metabolism. How great is that?

CIRCUIT TRAINING: Circuit training combines high intensity cardio training and resistance exercises.

The circuits are designed to focus on different muscle groups which you will blitz for set intervals with

“

“The circuits are designed to focus on different muscle groups which you will blitz for set intervals with a short rest after each exercise” a short rest after each exercise. The type of exercises you should expect to do in a circuit class include a variety of aerobic intervals like skipping, sprints or burpees combined with resistance exercises like squats, press-ups and lunges. By doing circuits you will keep your heart rate up and burn fat.

RUNNING: Pounding the pavements is another great way of burning fat.

It’s a high impact cardio exercise, which focuses on your legs, core and bum, which also happen to be the biggest calorie and fat burning areas of your body. If you really want to push yourself then hit the hills. Hill running is perfect for fat burning because it’s hard work which involves your whole body (arm pumping becomes essential here). Plus it’s another form of interval training (you run up the hill then jog back down and start all over again)

So go on give it a go, these fat burning exercises will sculpt your body and shake up your exercise routine making your workouts more fun and varied! CS If you have any questions or would like some personal training advice please feel free to call or email me at: Jodie@hartfitness.co.uk or 07787 561 303.

MARCH 2014

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Weddings & Events We look forward to seeing you at

The Bridal Show on Sunday 23rd March 2014 11-4pm at Cheltenham Town Hall

The team at the Creative Flower Studio offer a bespoke design service to ensure the highest standards of design and creativity to make your wedding or event extra special.

Whatever your preferred style and budget â&#x20AC;&#x201C; we can create it for you.

Visit us at The Bridal Show on

Sunday 23rd March at the Town Hall, Cheltenham 11-4pm.

07979 812262 Email: creativeflowerstudio@gmail.com

www. thecreativeflowerstudio.co.uk

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’’

www.shoottheday.co.uk

a woman’s work

urtees

peaks

They tell you to study the form; is the going good to firm or soft? What’s their history? A good performer? healthy?

And don’t forget the silks – do you favour pattern or plain; monochrome or a clashing palette? Of course I’m not talking about the horses and jockeys, I’m talking about the gangs of men who attend the Races and how to identify them.

For all you Festival Virgins out there, take it from someone who’s a pro at spotting the form; go on Racing Safari and use my “cut out and keep guide” to spot the Big Five The Silks of the Racing Fraternity:

CRAIG DERRICK PHOTOGRAPHY

The Irish – Paddy Boy Bearing a worrying similarity to the potatoes they love, these guys stick together in packs. Wearing padded jackets and thick soled practical shoes, they merge into a wall of green, and that’s even before Saint Patrick’s Day. In it for the duration, they’ve saved all year for this week in Cheltenham and they’re not going to get distracted from the job in hand: ie. betting and drinking in the sweet smelling area they call the Guinness village (or as I prefer to call it, the Guinness Ghetto).

Camouflage, plumage and peacocking – and that’s just the men….

The Old Poshies – Jasper Lad Tally ho! Watch out, or you might just get a pork pie dropped on your head from a braying toff from his box. Easy to spot in mustard or pink slacks (jumbo cords are de rigueur), they lurk in their private sanctuaries, quaffing G&T’s and pouring tea for mummy, only venturing into the hoi polloi to study a slim fetlock in the paddock or to meet up with other “jolly good sorts”.

The Touts – Honest John “Buying or selling lurve” they call out.

It’s like a scene from Oliver, except these guys don’t have the artful dodger’s panache. Dressed in a thin black jacket (why? It’s always freezing in Race Week), shoulders hunched, obligatory fag wedged in their chapped lips, these guys are permanently looking over their shoulder, waiting to be moved on by the “Filth”. Wheeling and dealing, they’re like hyenas, waiting to prey on the blue eyed innocents, hoping for a deal. Surtees Alert: There’s never a deal.

The First Timers – Nigel the Nag It’s a first time office outing, so all wear their usual (shiny) work suits with brown crepe soled shoes and sensible, nylon

overcoats – a sea of beige in the stands.

Huddled in the corner, they’re not used to the noise or bawdiness, and vow to stick together and keep bets to a £3 maximum. They’ve also promised their wives they’ll be home for 6pm and not drink too much. Unfortunately, the atmosphere gets too much for Nigel No.4 and he is found by a Security Guard at 8pm - passed out under a wheelie binglasses askew and pockets empty. This will be his racing legend, told to every one at the water cooler for years to come.

Essex Boy – Mickey the Musketeer Just like Loadsa Money from the 80’s “alwight daarlin – fancy a bit ave the uvver?” these boys like to flash their cash. Typically builders or city boys, their uniform is jeans, orange pointy shoes (with worn down heels) and a suit jacket & shirt. No sensible coats for them. Knowing nothing about racing, they imagine Cheltenham to be like Ascot, so on arrival they baulk at the temperature and venture straight to comfort – ie The Champagne Bar.

So listen to Yoda Surtees: Follow my tips and you’re sure to spot the Big 5 this March. Happy Hunting... CS

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

MARCH 2014

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motoring

Head turner…

Eric Barton climbs behind the wheel of the Jaguar XF 2.2 Diesel

If you want your executive saloon to turn heads then take a look at the Jaguar XF. This sleek saloon mixes stylish looks with a club class interior and composed driving dynamics. Better still, the entrylevel 2.2-litre diesel has just benefited from a cut in CO2 emissions, making it even more desirable as a company car.

The new 2.2 diesel is the pick of the line-up, while the 3.0-litre supercharged V6 petrol is tempting if you have pockets deep enough to run it. There's lots of standard equipment and luxury throughout the range, even if rear space is a tad tight. Addressing the mileage you wring out of every vehicle you own can be paramount to your business, as can the value you get by way of purchase price and any finance packages you opt for. Add to this the benefits of reduced emissions and road tax and you may have stumbled onto the deal of the year.

You don’t often hear the words executive, luxury, style, elegance and value in the same sentence. The new four-pot 2.2 diesel power plant lurking in this new XF is the main protagonist in Jaguar’s 2013 model year upgrades.

It’s a major step forward in stretching the mileage and performance. This latest engine gets a stop-start function (a first for Jaguar) and is married up to a new MARCH 2014

eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox which is mounted longitudinally for the first time in any Jaguar model. It doesn’t stop there. They’ve also had a slight nibble at the existing design aesthetics. New re – designed side vents lead your eye towards the headlights which are the first and most obvious elements of the design makeover. This to my mind it’s the sharp end that is really doing the XF justice. It’s sleeker and more in keeping with the graceful lines that make the overall look of the XF something to stare at. The front grille is larger and more upright, which gives it a far more pronounced look. The rear end and interior have been tweaked, too. The XF now has LED rear lights that extend further into the boot lid beneath the chrome strip. This seems to nicely balance the styling, creating a much neater flow. The XF now boasts a single exhaust pipe that doesn’t look overwhelming, or as if it’s capitalising the whole look of the back end. The usual high standard of finish in the interior perfectly compliments the changes that have been happening on the outside. As I’ve said before, you’ll be hard - pressed to find a better interior finish on any other car in this class. It’s where Jaguar has always excelled.

The ride and handling was spot on too, with the steering precise and light with the brakes perfectly modulated in terms of bite and effectiveness.

The new 2.2 diesel engine produces163 bhp with a top speed of 140 mph. The 0 – 62 mph is quickly reached in 8.5 seconds and the miles per gallon you’ll get is quite frankly staggering. It’s an unbelievable 52.3 mpg combined. The tank (if you don’t hammer it) will get you almost 816 miles on one journey without the need to fill up. That’s like going to Edinburgh and back. And in doing all this re-mapping and re-designing, they’ve also managed to get the CO2 emissions down to 129g/km. The 2.2 also offers a variant which produces 200bhp with just 139g/km. That’s remarkably low for such a lot of grunt.

It’s delivered at an attainable price at just under £30,000 for either business or private users and the mpg is through the roof for a car of this quality and power.

So you see this really is a head – turning wonder of the four cylinder variety. CS For more information and to take a test drive Tel 0845 322 9165 www.hafox.cheltemham.jaguar.co.uk

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000 Kate Justice March 14:Layout 1

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with Kate Justice

READY TO PARTY Previously, I’ve written about Ladies Day... the practicality of trying to look good in a gale at 5 degrees... I’ve also written about the queues of traffic... or how to arrive in a helicopter without flashing your knickers on disembarking. And I’m well known for being a huge disciple of the equine heroes that a quarter of a million people come to Cheltenham to cheer for and bet on.

But this year, I’m going to relay the story of my ‘party’ at the Festival. Before you get too excited, I was driving, so had a rare outing in sobriety where you know exactly how much the champagne is per bottle... and very definitely how much to bet on the 50-1 chestnut mare whose colours are pink and purple.

Boozing loosens one’s grip on the ability to determine these amounts.

Among other things.

The first alarm bell sounded when one of our party – Ellen, announced she was going to meet a mate, who was over from Ireland.... “for a Guinness and some tips on the 4:20”. It was about 3 o’clock and she’d already had a few of those. 4pm came and went and still she was AWOL. This began to unsettle the rest of the group. If you’ve ever been to the Gold Cup, you’ll know that there are roughly 10 people for every person sized space, so moving around is slow and mobile phone networks inevitably fail.

This makes the atmosphere both exhilarating and addictive as well as completely impractical for finding friends gone off with Irishmen.

Amazingly Ellen eventually found us – she’d seen me queuing for the loo and kept me in sight til she’d scrambled through the crowd. Sadly, Ellen had left her handbag behind in her mate’s box as guarantee she would return before the last race. This in itself was manageable – until we established she had NO IDEA AT ALL where the box was. There was considerable slurring and swaying and insisting the bag would ‘turn up’ that was then followed by an almost hour long tour of the racecourse’s permanent buildings before the bag was located. In the process we lost Rachel – who

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March is the month of the Gold Cup. Do you think of gambling? Tourism? Traffic jams? Royalty – or even horses?? Well.

Whatever you think of, there are a rather large number of people who think ‘PARTY’ – and we’ll get on to that in a moment.

showed up several hours later, back in town, giving cash to a homeless person outside Barclays.

Rachel had snogged her (male) flatmate outside the Golden Miller and was trying to buy a space in the bank’s front entrance, to avoid going home.

Leaving Prestbury Park also proved enormously hazardous. In an effort not to get stuck in the mud, I sort of sped off from the parking space. Beth was so well oiled, she’d not shut the passenger door entirely properly and slid right out onto the grass as I merrily drove off peering through the rather steamy windscreen.

To top the day off I finally relented and bought a bottle of champagne at Montpellier Winebar – I was the only one with any cash left. I walked outside carrying my booty and balanced it momentarily on the top of an advertising board so I could hand out glasses. This was the exact moment Dave and Dave had a minor fisticuffs over who’d nicked who’s winning betting slip and rolled and scuffed their way

right through our gathering, red faced and gripping each other’s collars like their lives depended on it, smack into said board, dropping the bottle and smashing it to smithereens.

Despite all this – and us being a collective £480 down on bets, we had one of the best days we’ve had in years.

Stories of getting lost and financial woe do nothing to show the complete thrill of being there.... in person and dressed to kill (but barefoot by 6pm – do NOT wear heels). So, whether its horses or gambling, fashion or Royalty spotting, I’ll make a bet you will definitely have a great party. CS

The National Hunt Festival is at Cheltenham Racecousre from March 11th – 14th. For more information and tickets, go to www.cheltenham.co.uk If you would like to share your stories about your pets with Kate Justice, please email the Editor at editor@stylemagazines.co.uk

MARCH 2014

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