Darling Magazine Kingston Autumn 2017

darling AUTUMN 2017  free

inspiring women

Bianca Effemey has found her true calling

BACK TO WORK Let's talk about equality

BACK TO SCHOOL

DRESS TO IMPRESS work fashion edit

Pick of the area's best independent schools

TEDDINGTON

New school year New challenges

celebrates 800 years

200 years later Jane Austin is alive in Mrs Bennett's Ballroom

living living & & lifestyle lifestyle in in kingston, surbiton & teddington | darlingmagazine.co.uk darlingmagazine.co.uk

davidlloyd.co.uk/clubs/kingston davidlloyd.co.uk/clubs/kingston davidlloyd.co.uk/clubs/kingston davidlloyd.co.uk/clubs/kingston

Tennis by the Thames A private, friendly club for all ages in an idyllic location

At the Kingston Riverside Club we warmly welcome players of all standards and ages.

Our newly upgraded facilities include covered, floodlit courts enabling play throughout the year, a modern clubhouse with a bar, showers and changing rooms and a private car park for our members.

We offer two different types of court surfaces: Macadam hard courts for faster play and clay courts which are softer, limiting impact on ankle, knee and hip joints.

Why not pop in and see us – the entrance to the club is at the junction of Lower Ham Road and Lower Kings Road in Kingston.

Professional coaching for all levels of tennis players Children’s tennis camps during holidays Social tennis, events & tournaments Call 020 8546 5935

kingstonriversideclub.org info@kingstonriversideclub.org Lower Ham Road, Kingston, Surrey, KT2 5AJ

JinJin Chinese Restaurant & Bar • Contemporary Chinese Restaurant, by the River Thames in the centre of Kingston.

• An ideal venue for lunchtime meetings, socialising and fun-filled dinner parties. Take-away available.

• Specialising in authentic SiChuan and North China cuisine with a twist.

Unit 8, Charter Quay, 2 Wadbrook Street, Kingston KT1 1HR jinjinkingston.com | 020 8549 6638

editor’s letter What’s this autumn got in store for you?

It’s time for a new school year, and not just for those heading back to the institutions of learning, or parents waving bye to their offspring at the school gates. I still feel it, that excitement of new beginnings at this time of the year and the itch to get a new bag and an outfit.

Cover: Bianca Effemey Photo by Kiera Fyles, Palmer Photography palmerphotography.co.uk.

Makeup by Kristina Gasperas kristinagasperas.com

Publisher Darling Magazine UK Karine Torr Editor Marja-Leena Toseland All Enquiries 07802 949836 Email kingston@ darlingmagazine.co.uk

This autumn issue is dedicated to new beginnings. Returning to work after a career break requires almost always great planning and it can be a daunting thought for many, especially if it’s been a while since your last job. You will find useful information, advice and inspiration in this issue from The Really Helpful Club, Women’s Equality Party, Dr De-Stress and Elaine Miller. Office fashion has come a long way from the power suit and stilettos. To make you feel empowered and confident at work, our stylist, Justine Elton, has picked great pieces and outfits for you. But if you’d rather head off for another beach holiday, then don’t miss Lyndsay Russell’s write-up on how you can work from anywhere you find yourself.

This is also the time for many to look at the next school for their child. Most schools are welcoming visitors and hold open days. We’ve picked a great selection of local independent schools to get you started in your search and have also included experts’ advice on tackling school stress and supporting your child’s educational needs.

Contributors Lyndsay Russell, Paul Mendelson, Valerie McBride-Munro

Elsewhere in this issue, we update you on history; Teddington turns a whopping 800 and Jane Austin is very much alive at Mrs Bennett’s Ballroom, 200 years after her death. Our regular health and wellness pages are, as always, a brilliant read, as are our home, gardening and bridge columns.

Photography Kiera Fyles palmerphotography.co.uk

Marja-Leena Toseland Editor| kingston@darlingmagazine.co.uk

Design Anu West apila.co.uk

CONTENTS

Printer Aquatint scott@aquatint.co.uk Distribution Three Colours Ltd info@3colours.co.uk Darling Wimbledon Karine Torr: 07930 396356 Darling Richmond Marja-Leena Toseland 07802 949836 Darling North Surrey Philippa Hennessy: 07772 633339 Darling Ascot and Sunningdale Martine Curzon: 07788 444184 Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. Darling Magazine does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system, or transmitted in any form – electronic, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from the publisher.

6 8 11 12 13 14 15 17 18 19 20 21 22 24 27 29 30 31 32 37 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46

Bianca Effemey has found her true calling Schools in focus - our independent schools guide Schools in the News Challenging stereotypes through theatre The kids are alright - are we?

Sex in the City Embracing change On the couch with Dr De-Stress A colonic irrigation with Rian Torres 21st century politics Let's talk about cystitis The comfortable and holistic way to a perfect smile Back to work fashion edit Limitations of Liability by Hart Brown Mrs Bennett's Ballroom Teddington turns 800 An update on my challenge Dinner by the river at Bistro Vadouvan On the scene with Darling editor Wellbeing and bathroom trends From humble beginnings to Surrey's premium store Love local Lunch date in prison anyone?

Eye-watering sum raised at the Eye Ball Box therapy by Valerie McBride-Munro What's On Paul Mendelson's bridge column Lyndsay Russell's Point of View

inspiring woman

Stint as a hospital receptionist led Bianca Effemey to her

TRUE CALLING

by Marja-Leena Toseland

W

hen former nurse Bianca Effemey took a job at Kingston Hospital as a hospital receptionist at the paediatric ward she soon realised she wasn't cut out for the job. Computers really weren’t her thing and she found herself spending most of her time talking to the parents whose children had been diagnosed with cancer, and to the children themselves, than dealing with the admin side of the job.

You set up Momentum Children's Charity in 2004. Where did the drive to run a charity and help cancer sufferers and their families come from?

“This was never something I set out to do.

When I turned 40, I found myself looking back at my life, feeling unfulfilled and that I hadn’t achieved my full potential yet. I felt a need to do something more but I wasn’t even sure I wanted to have a career. I loved being a nurse and decided to take a job back at the hospital after a career break to raise my two sons. I started as a receptionist at the paediatric ward, really to fill in the wait in search of what I really wanted to do.

The whole Momentum journey has been driven by people who’ve inspired us to do what was needed in order to help the children and families affected by cancer. It all started at Kingston Hospital when a little girl patient said that she really wanted something cold to eat or drink at night during her stays for chemotherapy. It wasn’t possible to provide anything cold for the children so I decided to ask John Lewis in Kingston 6

Photography by Kiera Fyles, Palmer Photography

whether they could donate a fridge for the children’s ward.

They couldn’t do that unless I had a charity number to show them and suggested that I set up a charity. After I decided that a charity was the way forward, I went to talk to a wonderful consultant at the hospital, Dr Winrow, who suggested that if I had a business plan he would look at it.

Writing a business plan was a daunting thought as I had

AUTUMN 2017 darlingmagazine.co.uk

inspiring woman

never done anything like that before but with a help of a couple of mothers who had children with cancer we sat at my kitchen table and came up with a plan on how to develop a beginning for Momentum.”

Momentum Children's Charity works closely with the paediatric ward at Kingston Hospital.

In what way does the charity improve care to young cancer patients at the hospital?

“Kingston Hospital is used as a flagship to other hospitals where we now work as well.

We’ve improved the healing environment by refurbishing treatment rooms, providing a playground and better facilities for parents and also offer music, dance and drama therapy.

Our family support teams visit Epsom, St Peter’s and East Surrey hospitals and we’ve done rooms up at Croydon Hospital too. Families with children facing cancer or a life-limiting condition have to cope with gruelling treatment plans. Trips, treats and respite holidays are a great help in easing some of the stress this causes. We have just acquired a second holiday home in the New Forest and own a boat that’s used for trips on the river. Being by the water often brings calmness and relief, especially for bereaved families.”

You have a very famous patron, Dame Jacqueline Wilson. What does it mean to a charity have such a high profile person flying your flag?

“Jacqueline has been involved almost from the start. She is so willing to do anything and very engaged with the families and children who get very excited when they get a card from her. She’s been to Kingston

hospital many times and met with families. Having a patron who can really help is a huge advantage to a charity. She has taken time to learn about what we do and is very much part of our Momentum family.”

September is National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month It costs about £10,000 for our Family Support Team to support around 150 families every month so our Golden Goal is to raise this amount in September. People can run their own fundraising events in September and buy our gold ribbons - you can display a box of the gold ribbons in your office, shop or school and encourage donations. You can also Go For Gold at the Kingston Half Marathon, run as a team or individual and train and fundraise throughout September.

Please visit our website for further details:

moment-um.org/gogold

darlingmagazine.co.uk AUTUMN 2017 7

3

SCHOOLS in focus KINGSTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL Co-educational, 11-18 years With a history dating back to the 12th century, and founded in 1561 by Royal Charter, Kingston Grammar School is a school with one foot in the past, but both eyes firmly on the future. We are an academically selective day school with 800 pupils, and are fully co-educational. A recent ISI inspection rated us ‘excellent’ in both pupils’ achievement and their personal development.

You are warmly invited to any of our Open Events and Group Tours. All dates can be found on our website. Booking required.

kgs.org.uk.admissions/open-events

Open Events 28th September 2017 – 11+ Information Evening for 2018 entry, 7pm/8pm start 30th September 2017 – Open Day, 10am – 2.30pm 10th October 2017 – Sixth Form Open Evening, 5.30pm SHREWSBURY HOUSE SCHOOL An IAPS Preparatory School for boys aged 7-13 Shrewsbury House is one of England’s oldest preparatory schools.

We have an enviable track record of success with scholarships and awards to senior schools. Our boys also enjoy great success at regional and national level in sports and the performing arts. The caring and committed staff organise a huge variety of after school clubs and educational trips to offer the boys tremendous learning experiences beyond the classroom. We have also recently launched a £15 million development programme to ensure that Shrewsbury House boys continue to benefit from the best possible educational environment.

For more information please contact the Registrar on 020 8399 3066 or at registrar@shspost.co.uk

shrewsburyhouse.net

ROKEBY SCHOOL Boys’ Preparatory Education, 4 to 13 years Rokeby School aims to nurture the talents and energy of each pupil in a creative and vibrant way.

‘Your son comes first’ at Rokeby. The school puts the boys, as individuals, before anything else. Sound preparation for senior school is a given, as is a strive to give each boy the very best start in their young lives.

Above all else Rokeby aims to develop a love of learning in each boy and to encourage him to be kind in all that he does.

Parents are encouraged to visit the school, either on your own, at one of our regular coffee mornings, or on our Open Day in order to gain a ‘feel’ for what it has to offer; not only academically but also artistically, socially and culturally.

Open Morning:

Saturday, 30 Sep 09:00 - 12:30 rokebyschool.co.uk

8

AUTUMN 2017 darlingmagazine.co.uk

Find the best fit for YOUR child THE MALL SCHOOL Independent day school in Twickenham for boys age 4+ We are non-selective at entry into Reception and hold an assessment for entry into other year groups, including our intake into Year 3 (7+) where we expand to three forms per year. Our boys go on to a range of senior schools including St Paul’s, KCS and Hampton and after 2019 all boys will leave at the end of Year 6.

Open Days:

Wednesday 20 September, 9.00am Saturday 7 October, 9.30am - 12.00pm Tuesday 31 October - 7+ entry only, 9.30am Wednesday 8 November - 4+ entry only, 9.00am

themallschool.org.uk

Please email admissions@themallschool.org.uk to book your place.

WIMBLEDON HIGH SCHOOL An academic, independent girls' school Located in the heart of Wimbledon, Wimbledon High is a beacon school of the Girls’ Day School Trust. We are experts in educating girls, achieving consistently excellent public exam results, yet within a warm and caring community. Our girls are scholarly yet grounded, ambitious but don’t take themselves too seriously and although they achieve great things, they also have time for fun, friendships, service in the community and to throw themselves wholeheartedly into the rich co-curricular life of the school. They truly can be themselves, away from the social pressures of a media-driven world. wimbledonhigh.gdst.net

100% Bursaries available for Year 7 and Year 12 entry, so if you would like help with the fees, so enquire.

Senior School Open Day (bookings necessary via our website) Saturday 7 October, 09.30-12.30 Junior School Open Days (bookings necessary via our website) Thursday 5 & Tuesday 10 October.

Tours from 08.50: last tour departs 09.15. The Head’s Talk at 9.45am. Ends at 10.20am.

ST JOHN'S SCHOOL, Leatherhead Boys and girls aged 11-18 St John’s School is a leading independent school, renowned for its academic strength, pastoral care and for offering a first class, all-round education. Excellent academic results, strong university entry and curriculum reform tell only one part of the story at St John’s. The rich cultural life of the school is matched by outstanding success on the sports pitches and extraordinary endeavour in drama, music, community service and much more besides.

Open Evening 16+, Tues 26 Sep Open Event 11+ 13+ 16+, Fri 29 and Sat 30 Sep

For more information please contact 01372 373 000 admissions@stjohns.surrey.sch.uk or visit stjohnsleatherhead.co.uk

darlingmagazine.co.uk AUTUMN 2017 9

11+ Information Evening 28 September 2017

16+ Information Evening 10 October 2017

Open Day 30 September 2017 Booking required

Book all events online www.kgs.org.uk

BENE AGERE AC LAETARI

I

WORK WELL AND BE HAPPY

New season, new coat?

We are proud to announce our

NEW GROOMING SERVICE Opening Offer: 25%

off

for all new grooming customers Call: 020

8549 3469

Back to shool? Time to spoil the dog!

When Jane took over Woofs a Daisy three years ago she had one mission: to create a place where pet owners could buy the healthiest, most natural foods and treats.

Today we are proud to stock premium quality foods including Raw, Nutriment, Nature’s Pet Foods, Orijen, Acana, Lily’s Kitchen, Pure, Carnilove and much, much more.

We also offer: Cat sitting, holiday home care, dog walking and puppy daycare

36 Coombe Road, Kingston upon Thames, KT2 7AG e: info@woofsadaisy.co.uk | w: woofsadaisy.co.uk t: 020 8549 3469

schools in the news tennisonproperty.com

Schools in the news is sponsored by

darling

new schoolNEW CHALLENGES 26/01/2017 11:47

NEW YEAR

S

• Print off the school curriculum, taking note of the topics that will be covered.

andra Nardi of the Parent Education Consultancy says few things are more bewildering in a child’s life than adjusting to a new school. Here are her simple tips to help parents through “that mixture of dread and excitement of saying goodbye to familiar faces and being welcomed into the micro-community of a new school, of meeting friends they’re destined to flourish with and teachers destined to inspire them.”

• Bring to life what they are learning by scouring the Discovery channel and ploughing through old movies - sharing knowledge through different mediums can empower you and your child and integrate you into their work whilst watching their confidence grow.

• For the younger ones, leave an assortment of pens and paper out on the kitchen table or devise a fun yet educative game to motivate and engage them in the morning.

If they still gravitate towards the iPad or the TV, that’s ok - embrace what your ‘digital natives’ can teach you about the technological universe which they have been born into.

Preparing your child for a new school, or their first day back in a new year, can be a challenging time. Your anxiety has been busily suppressed by acquiring fresh uniforms and sharp pencils; whilst children entwine trepidation with excitement, wondering what adventures lie ahead.

There are many ways we can support our children when they return home each day.

Many have after school activities, which the younger children may find exhausting in the first term, and may be worth delaying until January. Weekends are often bursting at the seams with sport, music and parties – leaving very little time to involve ourselves or maximise the potential learning opportunities stimulated by their rich curriculum.

• An understanding of educational apps will be a welcome surprise for all your children. parenteducationconsultancy.com

A recent report claimed that busy parents spend an average of 40 minutes a day talking to their children.

Consider placing homework routines either at breakfast when your child isn’t tired from the demands during the day, or arrange an earlier bedtime - allowing them to choose to read instead of sleep.

shop local

darlingmagazine.co.uk | summer 2017

33

darlingmagazine.co.uk AUTUMN 2017 11

arts

Challenging stereotypes through

THEATRE

“I

t’s completely home grown,” comments Mariam Majid, referring to her theatre and film company, ‘Wagging Tongues Productions Ltd’ (WTP), created by the husband and wife duo, Mariam and Abid Majid. “We engage professional cast and crew and execute everything else ourselves.”

Mariam relives her passion as a trained sculptor through the props and sets she creates with a team of designers. Her home, in a quiet cul-de-sac of Kingston, transforms into a full fledged set and props workshop in the run up to a major production. She is also the writer and director of the Jungly Jadoogar series.

The great success of last year’s debut show ‘Jungly Jadoogar’, (Crazy Sorceress), paved the way to two sold out shows this year, ‘Jungly Jadoogar 2 - JJ Spoils the Party’ at Lon-don Olympia and ‘Jungly Jadoogar 3 - Story Time with Dadi’ at Southbank Centre.

Dedicated to create performing arts projects that promote their community as a progressive and a contributing factor of British society, WTP is the only production company showcasing children’s theatre plays amalgamating South Asian culture with British. In keeping with the ethos of the company to promote unity through diversity, WTP work in collaboration with other companies and individuals to put together an engaging and entertaining show. The dancing robots of Street Styles 4 Us and ‘Multani Mimes’ by Mime the Gap were a visual spectacle in JJ Spoils the Party. Story Time with Dadi at Southbank centre was an immersive theatre piece that used animation by Nicky Francis and origami inspired puppet design by Louie Whitemore to retell a famous South Asian folktale.

Through her writing Majid aims to challenge stereotypes and gender norms, in the Jungly Jadoogar series the swashbuckling Princess Gulfam always helps save the day with the kung fu trained granny ‘Dadi’.

“Stories all over the world have the same soul, it is the one place where we all meet. We are at crossroads where boundaries have blurred and while the world is growing smaller, distances are increasing. It has never been more paramount to celebrate diversity. Our times urge us to realise our larger reality as one human family.”

12

AUTUMN 2017 darlingmagazine.co.uk

Photography by Asma Salman Saleem

web: waggingtongues.co.uk twitter: @jungly_jadoogar facebook: @junglyjadoogar

health

THE KIDS are alright – are WE? "The Prime Minister thanks you for your letter but is too busy to make time for such matters." So replied David Cameron’s office when I suggested that the cabinet should meditate and practise yoga every morning.

C

ameron may not know, but children know we hold emotion in our body. I taught a class of nine year olds focusing on the postures that help with memory, concentration and the ability to listen. One child asked me “Do you have any postures for sadness?”

“Yes, there are postures for sadness,” says Martin Clark, editor of ‘OM’ magazine, the leading UK yoga title, “and loneliness, heartbreak, anger, greed, vanity, impatience, lack of focus and jealousy. All the seven sins and more. The main one is fear. Fear feeds off greed and need. Yoga helps you rise above the ego. You feel no fear and you want nothing. You need nothing.”

THAT is what yoga gives you – a state of mind which leads to gratitude and acceptance. And when you have that, you are content and less stressed.

And THIS is why yoga is so relevant for schools. As one headmaster comments, “Stress is the number one enemy of public education, especially in inner city schools. It creates tension and violence and compromises the cognitive and psychological capacity of students.”

Yoga is not about being a bendy angel. It is one of the most powerful weapons against stress and negative emo-

tions. Teach children yoga and you equip them with that weapon for life. It is massively empowering for them.

Schools to date have been resistant to introduce yoga into the curriculum because it has religious and cultlike connotations. But this is changing. Schools are now introducing meditation and yoga sessions into the curriculum, albeit sometime as clubs. There are also organisations: Club Morgan club-morgan.com and Yogabuds yogabuds.com, among many others trying to bring the benefits of yoga to our increasingly over-stressed kiddies.

Local yoga teacher and journalist/radio presenter Sarah Tucker was talking to Mary Moran, founder of local fitwear and yogawear brand ILU Fitwear about how yoga helps with emotional baggage for adults and children - on which she has written a book. She has also written easy to follow yoga guides for children (below).

women womenat atwork work

SexCity in the

What’s it like being a woman in the world capital of finance? Wimbledon’s Elaine Miller shares her story

T

he first time I stepped on to a trading floor back in the mid 80’s, I noticed immediately a complete lack of women!

Aside from myself, no females were to be seen - except on a Friday, when 10 tall stunning women in red mini-skirts and high heels used to come in and clean the screens and keyboards.

Being a woman in finance is certainly challenging. From

20 14

being asked to dress up as a schoolgirl and let a trader chase me around the trading floor - to being asked to call a spurned colleague ‘Sir’ - life in the city as a woman, took - and still takes - a certain type of strength. Dealing with male egos being at the forefront.

In mitigation, a woman who I once worked with barked an order at me to phone a certain billionaire’s hedge fund who we were offering

summer 2017 | darlingmagazine.co.uk AUTUMN 2017 darlingmagazine.co.uk

finance to. I had spoken to him the day before, and as he was in the process of destabilising sterling, he said under no circumstances to call. I explained to her that it would be a mistake whereupon she slapped me around the face. This woman would eventually depart the company after attacking three other women - put out to pasture somewhere where the threat of lawsuits faded appropriately.

shop local

What I have learned over these years in banking, is what Lord Acton was talking about when he said in the 1800s “Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely”. I am afraid I have seen that way too often with men in positions of power.

Fred Goodwin’s megalomaniacal drive to make RBS the biggest bank in the world, resulted in spending £200 million on celebrity endorsements, £350 million on a new headquarters, £10 billion buying part of ABN Amro (where I happened to be working at the time). Yet he ended up being at the helm of a £24.1 billion loss. Fred had no technical banking experience or any banking qualifications. How did that happen?

I met the guys from Long Term Capital Management. I have never been in a room with so

Embracing

A

many tailored and bejewelled individuals. So mighty was their ability to impress, their hedge fund had a debt to value ratio of 25 to 1 - in simple terms it had equity of $4.2 billion but was allowed to borrow $125 billion.

When it failed, it was bailed out by the Fed to the tune of $3.65 billion in order to stop the predicted collapse of the American financial markets.

On the plus side, I have flown across the Atlantic first class many times, staying in beautiful hotels in New York - wining and dining some of the richest men in the hedge fund world.

One boss - new to the firm decided to accompany us on a trip. I raised concerns that he would be a liability but alas - warnings went unheeded.

At a client meeting, when he inadvertently and very

embarrassingly started discussing the wrong hedge fund, I tried to interrupt him. He asked to speak to me outside and was incredibly rude. I asked him who we were here to see - he said the name of a hedge fund - I pointed to the 6ft high company name above the atrium. It dawned on him eventually.

I have watched with complete and utter dismay, how we lurch from one financial crisis to another, and I truly believe had there been more women at the helm of these vast old schoolboy networks, we would be in a much better place. I wonder what form the next financial crash will take?

Living in Wimbledon Village offers me the solace and peace I need to forget that from 5:30am when I get up - to whatever time I get home - there is sanity around me here…

CHANGE – Shifting careers for a happier future

by Marja-Leena Toseland

midlife career shift can be good for cognition, wellbeing, and even longevity according to recent surveys. One of the reasons claimed is that those who’ve changed careers later in life feel more engaged and stimulated by their new jobs, or businesses they’ve started, than those staying in the same job for decades.

filled with people with relevant experience which you won’t have when you are changing careers.

SexCity in the

Talk to others who want to make a change too and find mentors who’ve shifted careers successfully. It’s also work asking to shadow someone in a business and

job you are interested in to gain insight and valuable experience.

We learn best by doing and making mistakes. Don’t plan too much in detail as you’ll need to adjust to new challenges and it’s bound to be a steep learning curve.

Sex City

Whether you are looking to jump into a new career or to become an entrepreneur, it’s worth investing time to: Network and connect - identify the type of person that can advice you or is well connected in the area and type of business you want to work in. Jobs that are advertised are likely to be shop local

in the

darlingmagazine.co.uk | summer 2017 21 darlingmagazine.co.uk AUTUMN 2017 15

THE 30 MINUTE FULL BODY WORKOUT DESIGNED FOR WOMEN

Hampton/Teddington

Get fit, gain strength, lose weight

30-minute full body workout

Strength training and cardio

One-on-one coaching

0203 068 0077

77-81 Station Road, Hampton, TW12 2BJ /CurvesHamptonTeddington /CurvesHampTedd 30mins@curveshamptonteddington.co.uk curveshamptonteddington.co.uk

Designed for women

* T & C apply, valid at Curves Hampton/Teddington. New members only. This offer is valid at selected events.

curves.eu/uk

Outstanding Care Time and again our patients rate us as one of the best private hospitals with 99% rating our overall quality of care as Excellent or Very Good*

• • • • • •

Exceptional nursing Highly skilled Consultants New state of the art operating theatres New cardiac diagnostic facility Recognised by all major insurers Fixed price surgery and finance packages available

A private, charity owned hospital providing compassionate healthcare for almost 60 years *Patient Satisfaction Survey Jan-Dec 2016

Darling Half Page 160x112.5mm Jan17.indd 1

Call: Email: Visit: Find us:

+44 (0) 20 8949 9000 enquiries@newvictoria.co.uk www.newvictoria.co.uk Just off the A3 184 Coombe Lane West KT2 7EG

19/01/2017 16:21

mental health

couch with Dr De-Stress On the

Dr Mariette Jansen

Aligning the dialogue of head and heart Dr Mariette Jansen (Dr De-Stress) is a psychological coach who helps her clients to discover more about themselves and to take control of their lives and its challenges. If you are worrying about anything, share your questions with Mariette in confidence and receive a personal answer from her: mariette@drdestress.co.uk

Q: I wake up each weekday with a feeling of anxiety. I have an interesting and challenging job in the city, but feel that I am not really up to it. And even though I work extremely hard and am known for my thorough delivery, I fear that I am going to be found out. It is strange, I know I am good and just received a great bonus and positive reviews. I can’t get my head around it. Audrey (46)

A: Dear Audrey, a lot of women are very selfcritical and have a tendency to undervalue their achievements. You receive positive feedback at work, expressed in money and appraisals. You are recognised for the quality of your work. But you are not able to receive these messages, as you don’t believe in your own value. One of the reasons that you are working so hard and ensure that the quality of your work is outstanding, is because you doubt yourself. You are

motivated by an underlying lack of confidence. And no matter how fantastic your achievements, you won’t be able to see it that way.

When you say ‘I can’t get my head around it’, I would say, ‘You can’t get your heart around it’. Your head is saying: ‘You didn’t make any mistakes, delivered within the deadline, everybody loved what you proposed, that is really good’. Your heart is saying: ‘How is it that you, never the brightest, never as savvy, lacking lot of skills, got away with it? This time you’re lucky, but what about next time?’ Your challenge is to align the messages of heart and head through building confidence that will help you to believe in yourself and to embrace your great achievements. I suggest you find a life coach who will guide you through this process.

Or, just book a FREE clarity call with me to get a clear direction: drmariettejansen.youcanbook.me

Feeling stuck? Lacking confidence? Overwhelmed? Not good enough? Knots in your stomach? Constantly worrying?

Not sleeping well? No control? Powerless?

Too much work and not enough fun?

Want to change, but don't know where to start? Tried to change, but no success? Find out how you can take control of your life.

Dr Mariette Jansen offers a FREE clarity call (drmariettejansen. youcanbook.me), a stress check, private meditation sessions and a range of coaching options.

Visit drdestress.co.uk or call 07967

717131 today! darlingmagazine.co.uk AUTUMN 2017 17

Get the SMILE YOU DESERVE

a girls’ night in

15% off full price for your

first hygiene session

Fancy a night in with friends sampling the latest must-haves from award-winning, luxury skincare brand, Temple Spa? Give yourself a spa facial | Get a prescriptive skin analysis Wellbeing and skincare tips | Great rewards for the host!

To book, contact Catherine Shyjka on 07773 918898 catherineshyjka@gmail.com | templespa.com/catherineshyjka

DIRECT ACCESS: You do not require a referral or prescription from a dentist

GLOWING SMILES

GLOWING SMILES

Independent Dental Hygiene Clinic

1st Floor Dental Suite, 46 Sheen Lane, SW14 8LP email: smiles@glowingsmiles.co.uk web: glowingsmiles.co.uk

A colonic irrigation with Rian Torres Editor Karine Torr takes the plunge “More and more science now believes that your health begins in your colon, which then supports the health of your whole body.” says Rian Torres.

That’s just the kind of thing I like to hear as I sit on the bed, ready for my ‘close-up’. I had my last colonic irrigation about 30 years ago in South Africa and felt all the better for it. Rian’s setup is positively space-age now in 2017 compared to what I remember back then. She is also highly pro and gentle at the same time, explaining everything as she goes along. It’s a pretty pain free experience and weirdly fascinating if you like to know what’s floating past! In the days since my treatment I seem to sleep better, have lots of energy and feel motivated to try and keep ‘clean eating’. I hope that lasts…

I’ll definitely be back for more in 6 months!

Rian says that colon hydrotherapy aids to eliminate bloating, regulate sugar, reduce cravings, improve your energy and boost your immune system. It helps fight depression and anxiety while helping with IBS and PMT symptoms. As part of a wider programme, it will also help with weight loss.

T: 07963 692441 healthetcetera.com

Colonic Irrigation Only £60!!!

politics

21st century politics

Why women's equality is good for MEN too

By Rosy Jones In the same way, the party campaigns for equality in education, kicking against bias that begins in school, where girls learn, sometimes even from other girls, that it’s not cool to be bright or good at maths, or where it’s expected that if a girl gives up it’s because she’s a girl, but if a boy gives up it’s because it’s hard. Making sure that girls know that they can do everything their brothers do – and that boys are respected for their choices too – is a key part of WEP’s platform.

T

he Women’s Equality Party (WEP) is unapologetic about bringing up unsavoury facts about women in the workplace. With the pay gap between men and women in the UK still averaging 19%, limited rights for self-employed women including unequal maternity rights, cost of childcare and inequality in pension rights, most unpaid care provided by women, and women’s paid roles tending to be at the lower end of the wage scale, they are clear about what they stand for, and why.

But don’t be put off by the obvious female focus. WEP is explicit about the benefits that a fair and equal society has to develop; better politics, a more vibrant economy, a workforce that draws on the talents of the whole population and a society at ease with itself. It supports shared parenting leave, where both men and women are able to choose to care for their new borns. “Dads matter” it says, and campaigns against casual sexism that assumes mothers should be the ones that take care of children.

It’s interesting to see why a new party has been formed in the 21st century, and how they are working to change things. Party leader Sophie Walker says that when they started the party in 2015, one of the reasons was that ‘voters don’t want politics as usual’.

WEP knows that the progressive policies that will help women to succeed and give men more choices too, reach across party boundaries but are often lost in old-style political point-scoring.

So in order to address issues such as the lack of women on boards, or better support for female entrepreneurs, or giving families more choices, they created a place where such a voice, regardless of left or right, can be heard.

As supporters of women at work and at home, Darling couldn’t agree more.

The WEP Richmond branch meets monthly. For more information, see The Women’s Equality Party website womensequality.org.uk or find us on Facebook.

darlingmagazine.co.uk SUMMER 2017 19

health

Let's talk about

CYSTITIS There is no need to think that nothing can be done to stop urinary tract infections reoccurring. Real help is at hand and you probably need a specialist to get to the bottom of the problem.

I

’ve had cystitis once in my life and it was miserable.

The pain, the desperate need to pee even though I knew I was going to pass five drops of what felt like acid, not to mention the throbbing pain in my nether regions - it was hideous. So I am enormously sympathetic to those women unlucky enough to get it frequently.

Unfortunately it’s one of those conditions that is often dismissed as bad luck (I suspect by those who’ve never had it), although it really ought to be investigated, essentially to make sure there isn’t an underlying cause.

If you get attacks more than three times in a year it’s worth consulting a specialist. They will talk to you, and examine you, and should also run tests to see whether the infections are caused by, for example, a kidney stone, or an anatomical variant within the urinary tract. In my practice, I will usually ask women to have an ultrasound scan of their kidneys and bladder, and a cystoscopy (telescopic examination of the bladder). I think it’s really important to make sure we have the right diagnosis, particularly as there are other conditions that can mimic urinary tract infections. To be honest, most women don’t have a cause for their infections - but that needs to be proved, not assumed.

20

AUTUMN 2017 darlingmagazine.co.uk

Nadine Coull Consultant Urologist

So what helps? Lots of things that we have been told to do historically actually make no difference at all. Urinating before or after sex is a myth. So is ‘wiping backwards’.

Vitamin C doesn’t help either. Cranberry juice is debatable - the evidence is conflicting (the capsules are half the price of juice by the way). Probiotics may benefit some women.

But for those who don’t get relief with these measures it’s likely that they will need some form of specialist input. I like to work with women individually, to establish exactly how their attacks affect their lives, and that helps me make a tailored plan that fits in with their lifestyle and avoids antibiotics as much as possible. I also think it’s important to review my patients regularly to make sure what we are doing is helping, and not being afraid to change strategy if things aren’t working. Please don’t think nothing can be done - it can!

Nadine Coull is a Consultant Urologist at New Victoria Hospital, Kingston and chair of the South West London Regional Continence Network. For appointments contact New Victoria Hospital on: 020 8949 9020. newvictoriahospital.co.uk

dental promotion

The comfortable and holistic way to a

PERFECT SMILE Dr Samar Morgan

R

ichmond Road Dental Practice has been caring for generations of teeth over its 65 years of practice.

North Kingston is densely populated with many families with young children, many of whom visit the practice regularly for their dental care.

Following a good diet and oral hygiene advice to secure good foundation dentition from a young age, one of the most common concerns for parents is the alignment of their child’s teeth at the age of 7-10 years. This is too early for conventional fixed orthodontics as the adult teeth are not fully erupted. However this does not mean something cannot be done!

Samar Morgan joined the practice in 2016 and has a real passion for orthodontics; Fixed, Invisalign and Myofunctional. She has introduced" Dentosophie", a revolutionary natural approach, to the practice with fabulous results.

Dentosophie is based on the belief that malocclusions are often due to incorrect functional habits such as dysfunctional breathing, incorrect swallowing, thumb sucking or tongue thrusting, which limit correct facial development.

Research has now clearly shown that an imbalanced mouth may

cause headaches, postural issues, joint and back problems, lack of concentration, depression and hyperactivity, speech difficulties, allergies, sleeping disorders, obstructive sleep apnoea and asthma.

So how does Dentosophie work?

What's the difference to traditional fixed orthodontics?

Nothing fixed or invasive, but simply a soft bite appliance, very comfortable, engaging both arches, used at night time and a couple of hours during the day. It is a simple functional appliance called "Activator" which is ideal for a child with mixed dentition.

Changes on a psychological level are noticable and in several cases an improvement is reported in the way children write, an increase in concentration, a reduction of hyperactivity and better performances in school, work and sport activities.

Due to its natural therapeutic action on the jaws, musculature and teeth, without any strong forces, the results, achievable at any age, are very stable and permanent.

Samar provides free orthodontic consultations for adults and children seeking treatment.

If you would like to find out more information or book a complimentary appointment, please contact Helen at the practice on 020 8546 2201.

The RICHMOND ROAD Dental Practice

The aim of this therapy is to correct the position of the tongue, obtain a correct swallowing and nasal breathing pattern and to help the oral-facial musculature to function in the right way. Used correctly it may eliminate the need for fixed orthodontics at a later date or at least reduce the complexity and duration of later treatment.

darlingmagazine.co.uk AUTUMN 2017 21

fashion

Back to WORK

Justine Elton

Hi everyone, as your local image consultant I'd like to give you my "Back to work" style tips for autumn/winter.

I've chosen some classic core pieces you'll need for your winter wardrobe and added some on-trend items and accessories in this season's colour palette; perfect for mixing and matching.

If you'd like me to choose items specifically for YOUR colouring and body shape, please contact me to make an appointment or visit me at Sartorial. I cater to all styles and budgets. Remember I can save you money by choosing items which suit you, you'll actually wear and not leave hanging in the wardrobe. Your whole wardrobe should be filled with multiple outfit choices, but not be bulging at the seams...Sometimes less is more.

Karen Millen Super Frill Cotton Shirt, Navy £115

Mulberry Maple Small Classic Grain Leather Tote Bag, Violet £775

Winser London Merino Wool Reversible Poncho, Black/Midnight Navy £125

Oasis Skinny Metallic Snake Belt, Gold £14

Samsoe & Samsoe Marnis blouse £59.95

Sartorial 8-row silver colour necklace £12.50

22

Karen Millen Belted Stud Pencil Skirt, Teal £150 Closet gold pleated skirt £64

Dune Bayly Stiletto Heeled Court Shoes, Blue £85

AUTUMN 2017 darlingmagazine.co.uk

Hush Savannah black lace top £65

Sartorial cuff bracelet £11.50

Amishi Statement necklace available at Sartorial £110

Whistles Plain Woven Scarf, Yellow £45

Statement earrings £9.50 & necklace £16.50 available at Sartorial

Bruce by Bruce Oldfield Long Crepe Coat, Black, £159

Sartorial Blue topaz, clear & peach coloured crystal effect drop earrings £12.50 Mint Velvet Madison Cocoon T-Shirt £79

Statement earrings £9.50 available at Sartorial Jigsaw Oversize Typo Print Scarf Dusky Pink £50 Karen Millen Satin fluted blouse, ivory £115

Coach Market Leather Tote Bag, Cloud £295 - £395

Toast Herringbone Khadi top, off white £165

Oasis Faux Leather Chevron Mini Skirt Black £36

Modern Rarity Paper Bag Trousers, Navy , £120

Ted Baker Khera Wool Cashmere Blend Wrap Coat, Light Grey £329

Kin by John Lewis Ansa Cone Heeled Court Shoes, Grey £79

Justine Elton | Sartorial Boutique and Gifts, 50 Coombe Road, Kingston, KT2 7AF t: 020 3759 1445 | w: sartorial-jce.com | Instagram: Justine Sartorial_ImageConsultant

legal promotion

Liability

LIMITATIONS OF

Getting the paperwork right when winning new work is vital to commercial success

A

ll too often suppliers and customers are so caught up in the enthusiasm for a new project that one of the last things either party want to do is talk about contracts, especially if the parties have been working together for a long time. However, a case at the end of last year, shows the importance of taking the time to get the contract right, especially regarding your liability if something goes wrong.

What happened?

An architectural company had done design work on two large projects for a customer. The design work had been undertaken on an understanding that a wider agreement would be agreed and entered into.

Unfortunately the wider agreement was never prepared and despite not agreeing detailed terms of a contract, the customer still placed the order for the design work and the architects completed that design work.

However, issues arose in the design and the cost of rectifying these defects was valued around £40 million. The architects claimed their liability had been limited to £610,515, which was a figure proposed by the customer. The amount paid to the architects for the design work was £285,000, so that limit does seem reasonable. To be faced with a £40 million claim is very different.

24

AUTUMN 2017 darlingmagazine.co.uk

Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (50788)

There were two issues the court had to decide: 1. Was there a contract and, if so, what were its terms?

The judge decided that the parties had discussed three sets of terms, but had not in fact agreed on any of them as: • The first set was superseded by the second set of terms.

• The second set of terms was not identified (both parties had lost the correspondence) and a third set had been proposed.

• The third set of terms had never been agreed.

However, the court found there had been a contract for the simple reason that the court said that if one party is carrying out work and the other is paying for it, it will usually find there is a “simple contract”. However, it was decided that the other terms of business which had been put forward by both parties did not form part of the agreement.

2. If there was a contract, was the limit on liability included in it?

The parties had discussed at least three different limits on liability, and ultimately, none had been agreed.

The court said that there was no limit on liability despite it being the customer (not the architects) that had put forward the limit. As the limitation on liability when things go wrong is so important, there had to be a clear and express agreement to the change these limits. This had not happened and therefore the judge confirmed that there was no limit to the architect’s liability resulting in a liability of tens of millions of pounds.

Lessons learnt 1. Contract negotiations should be started and concluded quickly. The judge said the architects could be “properly criticised” for not responding promptly to the customer’s numerous proposals causing a muddled view of the contract from the architects.

2. Limiting a party’s liability should be by agreement, be clear and written down. The judge concluded that it was a classic case of it being better to have an agreement in order to obtain a limit on liability, even if some of the other terms were not so commercially friendly.

3. Delay work if necessary. This is always tricky, especially if a contracting party has fought tooth and nail to get the work. However if the architects had waited until the liability limitations had been agreed (perhaps to a professional indemnity insurance level), then the architects would be in a far less vicarious position than it now finds itself.

4. Clarity is king – in order to say an agreement exists, there needs to be a clear offer and very clear acceptance of that offer. This was not apparent here as the judge was not able to determine that the terms of business had been accepted when the architects accepted the instruction to do the design work. Therefore there was no limit on liability.

Danielle Collett-Bruce | Senior Solicitor, Commercial & Corporate dcb@hartbrown.co.uk | 01483 887653

darlingmagazine.co.uk AUTUMN 2017 25

IT'S NOT A GAME...

Clear, concise, professional and highly confidential help and advice Rose & Rose has a wealth of experience in dealing with difficult and complex family disputes and issues Our areas of family law expertise Divorce Cohabitation Financial issues Property disputes International issues Civil partnerships Children Pre & post nuptial agreements Pensions after divorce Appointments are at a time and place to suit you

Free initial consultation

The Riverside Centre, 40 High Street, Kingston-upon-Thames, KT1 1HL

Tel: 020 8974 7490

Email: info@roselegal.co.uk

www.roselegal.co.uk

The Premier Networking Organisation for Women In Business ATTENTION, LADIES! Do you run your own business?

Looking to be introduced to like-minded business women? Do you need support?

Winner of the 2017 Aesthetic Dentistry Award Our principal dentist, Dr Aneta Grzesinska, provides all general dentistry treatments and has undertaken extensive training to enhance her special interests in cosmetic, restorative and Invisalign orthodontic procedures.

RICHMOND DENTAL CENTRE address: 1st Floor Dental Suite, 46 Sheen Lane, SW14 8LP | email: info@richmonddentalcentre.co.uk web: richmonddentalcentre.co.uk | tel: 020 3441 8182

CALL US TODAY on

020 3441 8182

We have three main aims at Athena: 1) Strategic Connections 2) Training, 3) Support

Meetings are once a month between 12pm and 2pm COME AND VISIT one of our groups:

KINGSTON – Brook Kingston Lodge Hotel, 1st Tuesday each month

TEDDINGTON – The Clockhouse, 3rd Wednesday each month

RICHMOND – Richmond Gate Hotel, 2nd Wednesday each month

KEW – The Greyhound, 3rd Thursday each month

HAMPTON COURT – The Stables, 3rd Tuesday each month

SURBITON – The French Table, 85 Maple Road, Surbiton, KT6 4AW 4th Tuesday each month

For more information contact Charmaine on 07507 151 058 or email charmaine.mace@theathenanetwork.com

Mrs Bennet's

Ballroom

dance

“It may be possible to do without dancing entirely” wrote Jane Austen, in Emma.

I

nstances have been known of young people passing many, many months successively, without being at any ball of any description, and no material injury accrue either to body or mind; – but when a beginning is made – it must be a very heavy set that does not ask for more”.

While Libby Curzon doesn’t actually say that Emma was her inspiration for starting her Regency ballroom dance classes, you can tell that she wholeheartedly shares the sentiment.

“It’s wonderful how this historic style of dance inspires people with its gentle and social manners,” she says, when asked about why she started Mrs Bennet’s Ballroom five years ago. “I love this style of dance, and wanted the opportunity to dance in wonderful venues in England and Europe”

It’s certainly something that has caught on. Started in St Mark’s Church Hall in Surbiton, where they dance on Wednesdays and with a new venue in Fulham for Tuesday nights, regular attendances of 30 dancers meet to learn the Quadrille, the Assemblé and the Boulanger, the only dance that Austen mentioned by name in her novels.

Wanting to encourage the social aspect of the group, Libby holds tea dances in January and June/July when the dancers dress up in costume and their wonderful local musicians Green Ginger play for them. In 2016, they held their first winter ball at the Normansfield Theatre in Teddington, and their second Mistletoe Masked Regency Ball will be held this year on 2nd December.

Libby is very encouraging to those who might be wary of stepping

(lightly) into the 19th Century. “You don’t need to have danced before, no partners are needed, and anyone over 18 who has an interest in dance can come along. And it’s not a course, so you can join at any time”.

In this bicentennial year of Austen’s death – but also the publication of perhaps her most acutely observed novel, Emma, it’s worth remembering that she also wrote that “Fine dancing, I believe like virtue, must be its own reward. Those who are standing by are usually thinking of something very different”. Libby Curzon would encourage us not to stand by, but to enjoy the reward of the dance.

Mrs Bennet’s Ballroom: Classes Tuesday (Fulham) and Wednesday (Surbiton) mrsbennet.co.uk

darlingmagazine.co.uk AUTUMN 2017 27

The Great Richmond Road Factory, Ham 75 Years building cars, lorries and aircraft 100 years after it was built and 25 years since it closed down you and your family are invited to the Richmond Road factory site in Kingston for a special free exhibition Historic photographs, slideshows & models, with guided tours of the original factory site plus outside exhibits including a Hawker Hunter aircraft cockpit, a 1920s Trojan car and possibly a 1930s Leyland bus

YMCA Hawker Centre Lower Ham Road Kingston KT2 5BH

Saturday 9th September 2pm to 8pm & Sunday 10th September 10am to 4pm Close to 65 and 371 bus routes between Kingston & Richmond Free parking Direct access from the Thames Path and National Cycle Path The Hawker Association extends a special welcome to all ex-employees Meet up with old colleagues and bring your photographs for us to scan For news of the event visit www.kingstonaviation.org or www.hawkerassociation.org.uk

TEDDINGTON turns 800 With an impressive calendar of celebrations still to come

I

n 1217, for the first time the Abbot of Westminster was asked to present to the Bishop of London ‘a suitable chaplain, with maintenance, for Tudinton’. This was the point at which Teddington became a parish with an identity of its own.

So 2017 is the 800th anniversary of the town, and in June we began a six month festival with a programme of community events to help everyone enjoy our heritage as well as get together to have a great time.

We can’t believe that we’re half way through already and we’ve had such summer fun with a flower festival, sports day, cricket match and pram race. There is so much more to come in the autumn however, and September is the busiest time by far.

If you’ve ever wondered about the history of Teddington, come and see our exhibit. You can catch it either at the NPL Bushy House Open Day on the 17th or at our big Landmark Arts

by Anne O’Neil McTear

Centre display ‘Visions of Teddington’ from Sept 23rd. where in addition to history, artists will exhibit alongside local groups and schools, sharing their creativity, memories and social history, plus we’ll have a 'spoken history' film of older inhabitants of the town.

Also on the 23rd the Rotary club will hold a Town Treasure hunt, with clues in many of the shops and a prize to be won.

Then there is the fancy ‘Teddington 800 Ball’ on Saturday 30th, a chance to really get dressed up.

Tickets from teddington800.org.uk.

On the evening before, Friday 22nd Newland House School are hosting a charity town quiz, so if you’re feeling competitive and clever come along – again, tickets are on our website. On the evening after, a ‘800 Song of Praise’ service takes place at St Mary’s church – don’t worry, we won’t sing 800 of them but the top 10 as voted for by the community.

But long before that on the 10th we’re having a river celebration and blessing in September, recognising the important of the river to the existence of the town.

Fiverfest is even going 800 this September too – so look out for wonderful offers.

If you’re not completely exhausted

by September, then have a look at October and November too.

Teddington 800 is all about community and togetherness and making a difference locally. If you would like to know more or to take part, please contact me on 800@stmarywithstalban.org

charity

An update on my CHALLENGE And discovering that age is no reason to stop improving your performance

N

ot long now until it’s time to test whether I’ve done enough training to be able to complete my challenge the way I wanted to. The Richmond RUNFEST is on September 16-17th and I’ve signed up for the half marathon as part of The Victoria Foundation team.

I’m not talking about an extreme adventure like Jan’s expedition to the South Pole, or rowing the Atlantic. But this is still a challenge for me, especially as I’m trying to overcome piriformis syndrome and the pain it causes when I’m running. By doing the run, I wanted to see whether I, as an active woman over 50 and a pretty fit runner, could improve my strength, overall fitness and speed in order to run comfortably – and with an OK pace too (I’m definitely aiming for under 2 ½ hours whatever the weather). And all with a training plan of just three months.

I’m pleased to say that middle age doesn’t stop you from improving your performance. I’ve trained with a very motivating and knowledgeable running coach, Helen Maguire from Run-

by Marja-Leena Toseland

ningFit, who’s put me through my paces in our weekly sessions and has given me a training plan which I’ve tried to stick to as far as the runs at least, less so with the strength exercises although these are very important too.

Don’t want to run? Then volunteer for The Victoria Foundation in the Kew Botanical Gardens 10k race on 16th September and spend the day free of charge in the gardens!

Can you spare three hours volunteering for The Victoria Foundation on Saturday 16th September to help cheer on, meet and greet those running in aid of the charity? You will need to arrive at Kew Botanical Gardens by 8am, volunteer until 11am then you can spend the day free of charge visiting the iconic glasshouses, historic buildings, formal gardens, water features, tree top walk and much more. Your support will help us to transform more lives.

For details of volunteering on 16th September contact The Victoria Foundation NOW – email enquiries@thevictoriafoundation.org.uk To help The Victoria Foundation reach their fundraising target, you can sponsor me at richmondrunningfestivalhalfmarathon2017.everydayhero.com/uk/marja-leena

restaurant review

Dinner by the river at

Bistro Vadouvan

by Marja-Leena Toseland

We started off with sharing a Goat’s Curd Labneh with pistachio and olive tapenade with flat bread - a winning combination! For starters my friend had the Bouillabaisse Provencal spiced with chorizo and harissa rosso, a fantastic way to add a little kick to this classic dish.

I chose Seabream Ceviche with avocado and chilli - refreshing and light, yet full of flavour.

I

was really looking forward to finding out whether the much talked about classic French dishes, with Middle Eastern and Asian twist, would live up to the reputation of Bistro Vadouvan's Michelin-starred chef. So I invited a friend for a mid-week dinner by the river. We immediately took to the place, thanks to the warm welcome we received from the staff. A couple at the next table noticed me pulling my camera and notebook out and told me that if I was writing a review they hoped it would be a rave one. They live in the neighbourhood and dine at the restaurant couple of times a week as they love the food so much.

‘off-dry’, and Lolo’s Albarino, Spain, good choices to match the strong flavours. A glass of classic Argentinian Malbec with my the oxtail, a perfect combination.

For the main course, I had the special of the day: slow-cooked oxtail on a bed of spiced lentils with yoghurt and mint dressing.

This was simply a mouthwatering dish with hint of cardamom, chilli and coriander amongst other subtle flavours. Henry loves fish and chose seabass with celeriac, cauliflower and Raz el Hanout, which was served on a bed of hummus and parsley and lemon confit, a great way for hummus lovers to include it in their mains. He was a little sceptical at first but agreed that the combination worked well and gave it a thumbs up too.

After this feast we definitely didn’t need puddings but decided to share a passionfruit and mango cheesecake, just for your benefit, my reader. It was the most fluffy and light cheesecake I’ve ever had and absolutely delicious with a light, yet crispy base, the way we like it. A perfect way to round off our wonderful, and well priced, meal.

To accompany our starters we drank Fritz’s Riesling, Germany, slightly sweeter and heavier,

30 Brewhouse Lane, Putney Wharf, Putney, London SW15 2JX 020 3475 3776 | bistrovadouvan.co.uk

darlingmagazine.co.uk AUTUMN 2017 31

On the scene

With editor Marja-Leena Toseland

KINGSTON ARTISTS' OPEN STUDIOS WEEKENDS - WITH KAOS AND FUSIONARTS

Bee Smith - milliner

Janie Harland, founder of FusionARTS and Carol Edmonds

Stewart Ganley, Cressida Borratt, Caroline Calascione, Peg Morris (Chair of KAOS), Hanna Ten Doorkaat and Buffy Kim

IYAF, INTERNATIONAL YOUTH ARTS FESTIVAL ROYAL GALA

Omri Kedom, Lisa Samlogeou, Huy Standeren, Patrick Walker, Theo Plytas and David Dawson

Emma Facey, winner of Sea Stories design competition with HRH Earl of Wessex

Andy Currums, Festival Director with HRH Earl of Wessex

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EXPO, KINGSTON UNIVERSITY BUSINESS SCHOOL

Ruth Blackford, Richard Eastwood and Rachel Pearcey

Natalie Crew, Sarah Cornes and Cllr.Julie Pickering Mayor of Kingston

Ed Davey, MP, Toni Flatt and Rochelle Tomlin (both from Worldpay)

POSH MUM CLUB LUNCH AT THE IVY CAFE, RICHMOND

Marja-Leena Toseland and Holly Tucker (Holly & Co., key speaker)

Sarah Atherfold, Charlotte Dawson and Zukreat Nazar

Steph Douglas (Don't Buy Her Flowers, key speaker), Sahar Arfeen (Chair of Posh Mum) Svetlana Tretilova and Sara Siddiqui

DARLINGS GOT TOGETHER FOR FESTIVE CELEBRATIONS THE ATHENA NETWORK RICHMOND AND KINGSTON BOROUGH GROUPS' SUMMER PARTY AT STEIN'S IN KINGSTON

David Curzon (husband to our Ascot editori), Karine Torr, Marja-Leena Toseland and Philippa Hennessy

WHAT'S HOT

Patricia Campbell-Barker, our editor, Mariette Jansen and Charmaine Mace

Patricia Campbell-Parker (Kingston chair), Charmaine Mace (Regional Direcor), Nina Haydon (Richmond chair) and Gwen Claassen

Nicky Williams , Jumblebee and Lorna Votier, The Victoria Foundation

Your eyes deserve to be framed, £189.

FENDI

Lucy Razveeva, Susi Senny, Seena Parsaei, Ingrid ScottTorr and (our Afsaneh Mohammati Anu West (our designer) Victoria Bell, Karine publisher), Sandra Nardi (Lady W Louise Claremont, Julia Jones (Iceland Statement peep and Cythare Cooper (our(RunningFit) and TeresaPeter Sanders, Nina Haydon, Kingston), Gilbert and BogdanOlivia MoranFlattery and Traveller), Helen Mcguire toes, £175. REISS photographer) Mariette Jansen aka Dr De-Stress Yvonne Peach

Pamela Gregory (Hannibal Brown), Josh Read and Elliottand andPaula Malory Torr Marja-LeenaZara Toseland Judy King Claire Darby and Emma Rothstein (both from Pearson Trovalusci Hards Solicitors) and Carmen Osman (Active8 Managed BHUTI IN RICHMOND HILL - FIRST BIRTHDAY PARTY Technologies)

On trend alternative to the handbag, £280.

WHISTLES VERITY BACKPACK

SPA-TO-GO GIRLS' NIGHT IN WITH TEMPLE SPA'S CATHERINE SHYJKA

���

Bum-sculpting superhero leggings, £85.

SWEATY BETTY

Emily Brett with Dame Vivienne Westwood Samantha Trinder (founder of bhuti) with Dame Photos by Barney James, SilverHeartPictures Vivienne Westwood Leoni Wright and Mariette Neta Tully, Jackie Wallace, Ruth Baker, Anu West (Darling designer), Jansen Catherine Shyjka, Liisa Stuart, Linda Sawyer and Coral Hill

Sassy and sexy, £89.99. ZARA

Hawkers Bar and Brasserie Afternoon Tea for two

ladywimbledon.com

TEDDINGTON FAIR AND PRAM RACE TEDDINGTON FAIR AND PRAM RACE

Will Powell, Mike Greenwood, Joe Muffett and Vicar Jean Blanc - St Mary's Church Will Powell, Mike Greenwood, Joe Muffett and Vicar Jean Blanc - St Mary's Church

Lensbury stand: Ray and Georgina Harlow with Neil Hall Lensbury stand: Ray and Georgina Harlow with Neil Hall

Richmond Practice: Silvia Leiros and Richmond Practice: RosaLeiros Avinoand Silvia Rosa Avino

Teddington Theatre Club: Gemy McGarthy and Lottie Theatre Walker Club: Gemy McGarthy Teddington and Lottie Walker

Teddington Dance Studio Katie Lewis and Natalie Teddington Dance Studio Bolinfbroke Katie Lewis and Natalie Bolinfbroke

Landmark Arts Centre: Sian Morgan and Lesley Bossiane Landmark Arts Centre: Sian Morgan and Lesley Bossiane

THE EYE BALL AT RICHMOND HILL HOTEL THE EYE BALL AT RICHMOND HILL HOTEL

Martin Ward, Paul Adaway and Natasha Mohabir Martin Ward, Paul Adaway and Natasha Mohabir

Jay Bell and Anne O'Neil McTear Jay Bell and Anne O'Neil McTear

League of Friends Hospital: Shirley Oakes, Adele Cowell TonyHospital: Oakes Shirley Oakes, Adele League of and Friends Cowell and Tony Oakes

Andrea Vida, Karen Powell and Gemma Stone Alpha Vets: Gary Campbell, Kiri Polisziwski andStone Alice Andrea Vida, Karen Powell and Gemma McCartney + Henry (theraphy Alpha Vets: Gary Campbell, Kiri dog) Polisziwski and Alice McCartney + Henry (theraphy dog)

GREAT BANDS AT THE OAK PUB, KINGSTON GREAT BANDS AT THE OAK PUB, KINGSTON

Charles and Sue Conder Charles and Sue Conder

Jon Bird Band: Tom Greenhalf, Jonathan Bird, Dae Lee and Bob McKay Jon Bird Band: Tom Greenhalf, Jonathan Bird, Dae Lee and Bob McKay

WOOFS A DAISY' S SECRET DOGGY CINEMA AT THE ALBERT WOOFS A DAISY' S SECRET DOGGY CINEMA AT THE ALBERT

Vera Taylor with Maggie and Oscar the lion Vera Taylor with Maggie and Oscar the lion PATARA LAUNCH IN WIMBLEDON

PATARA LAUNCH IN WIMBLEDON

Jane Higgin, owner of Woofs A Daisy and Mish Thompson with Rolo the Spagetti Jane Higgin, owner of Woofs A Daisy and Cowboy Mish Thompson with Rolo the Spagetti Cowboy

Marja-Leena Toseland and Sandra Nardi , 'Lady Wimbledon' Marja-Leena Toseland and Sandra Nardi , 'Lady Wimbledon'

Susan Gough and Zoe Susan Gough and Zoe

SHREWSBURY HOUSE SCHOOL FOOTBALL AND FAMILY EVENT SHREWSBURY HOUSE SCHOOL FOOTBALL AND FAMILY EVENT

Deborah Gregor, Sally Derrick and Pamela Potter Deborah Gregor, Sally Derrick and Pamela Potter

Santi, Louis, Ben, Rupert and Joseph - 'The Chicken Dippers' team Santi, Louis, Ben, Rupert and Joseph - 'The Chicken Dippers' team

Marja-Leena Toseland, Bojana Woods, Bhartie Dodhia and Joyce Stanislas Marja-Leena Toseland, Bojana Woods, Bhartie Dodhia and Joyce Stanislas

PHOTOGRAPHER ANNIE ARMITAGE CELEBRATED 10 YEARS IN BUSINESS

Marja-Leena Toseland and 'Miss Ballooniverse' Sian Bradshaw, Kish Modasia, Rachel Barclay, Lucinda Payton-Jones, Annie Armitage and Maureen Osbourne

ROBERT HOLMES & CO. OPEN HOUSE AT COOMBE ESTATE

Lucy Symons, Sarah Austin (The Really Helpful Club), Debby Blott (DecorCafe) and Sarah Roussinov

Paul de Havilland, Liz Berman and Guy Leaning

RED CARPET GLAMOUR - SEEING HIM PREMIER AT LONDON SHORT FILM FESTIVAL

Chris Jones, Director and Don McVey, Director of Photography

Catherine Rowney, actress, Duncan Duff, actor and Vanessa Bailey, actress, playright and producer

NONO CREATIVES MEET AT CANBURY ARMS

Danny Cheema, Tony Harris, Sky Grania Young, Andy Fairgrieve, Lyndsay Russell (Darling columnist) Cythare Cooper and Martin Booth

Vanessa Bailey with our editor

BRIAN FERRY AT HAMPTON COURT FESTIVAL

Marja-Leena, Esther Jolker, Sue Baker and Philippa Hennessy (editor of Darling North Surrey)

interiors promotion

Wellbeing and bathroom trends

With Absolute Abode designer Kirsty McMorron

H

ome as sanctuary is a very popular topic at the moment - I’m sure you’ll agree that we are living in challenging times, and sometimes when we close the door to the world, we just want to escape into our sanctuary of home.

A core part of this sanctuary for many of us is our bathroom, where we create our personal bathing rituals. A beautiful, luxurious feeling bathroom is a place to unwind, relax and de-stress from the day, as well as the first place that many of us go as soon as we wake up.

Ideally, our bathrooms are adaptable spaces where we can tailor the atmosphere to our mood. Lighting is extremely important in a bathroom - at Absolute Abode we like to layer lighting, especially in bathrooms, so you can change the mood and atmosphere. Not too bright but bright enough to be practical in the morning; low lighting in the middle of the night; gentle, calm and warm as we wind down in preparation for bed. This can be achieved with various types and levels of lighting, such as ceiling down lights, wall lights, floor lights and hidden LEDs. Creating a relaxing, welcoming, atmospheric space is something that we find ourselves doing a lot for our clients.

Thinking about how you and your family like to use your space is the stepping off point - what bathing rituals do you have and when, how often do you like to relax in the bathroom, who uses the space? These factors all affect how a bathroom is designed.

‘Nothing exists if not through the hands’, as famous Italian architect Gio Ponti once noted - our sense of touch is how we experience our environment, and our experience of home should be one of sanctuary and warmth. Ensuring our bathing spaces, where we are often at our most vulnerable, enhance these feelings and can greatly improve our sense of wellbeing and relaxation.

With consideration and attention to detail, coupled with a thorough understanding of how and by whom your bathroom is used, Absolute Abode can help to transform your functional bathroom into a welcoming, peaceful daily sanctuary.

Please feel free to get in touch with us for a complimentary consultation, to discuss your ideas further. absoluteabodedesign.com | 020 8090 3210 Absolute Abode Design 76-78 Coombe Lane SW20 0AX shop local

Design, Supply & Installation

The Complete Bathroom Specialists 020 8335 6821 | 49-51 Fleece Road, Long Ditton, KT6 5JR | www.bathroomeleven.co.uk

local history

From humble beginnings to

SURREY'S PREMIER STORE

K

ingston’s much loved department store Bentalls celebrates 150 years in business this year.

On Saturday 20 July 1867, Frank Bentall opened a small drapery store on Clarence Street, Kingston upon Thames. During the following years Frank bought the surrounding shops and businesses. In 1904, work was done to blend all of the premises together to create one big store – creating the famous rounded ‘corner’. Iron work, brass plates and plate glass windows completed the exterior of the store while hand lifts, speaking tubes and an internal phone system revolutionised the interior.

The principal buildings of Bentalls were completed in 1935 and designed by architect Maurice Webb, son of Sir Aston Webb, and inspired by Christopher Wren's design for Hampton Court Palace. In 1987, the building of a 200,000sq ft. ‘new’ Bentalls began which is the current store location. Since the Fenwick family acquired Bentalls in 2001, the store continues to offer the very best of premium and high-quality brands across womenswear, menswear, accessories and homewares. fenwick.co.uk/stores/kingston

darlingmagazine.co.uk AUTUMN 2017 39

lovelocal If you want to advertise in Darling Magazine call: 07802 949 836 or email: kingston@darlingmagazine.co.uk

S

?

V

&

SALT & VINEGAR? Traditional fish and chips

Share the love of fashion with Captain Tortue Bring an exclusive boutique feel to your own home with Letizia, your personal consultant with Elégance & Beauty 07765 281020

letizia.captaintortue@gmail.com

M & D Autos

Auto specialists who care

11.30am - 10pm, Monday to Saturday, closed on Sunday We have a license to serve alcoholic drinks

MOT, mechanical & electrical repairs, bodywork and recovery

171 High Street, New Malden, KT3 4BH | 020 8942 6611

26 Elm Rd, New Malden KT3 3HB | Tel: 020 8942 1911 Mob: 07961 859 128

PERSONAL TRAINING •

Strength and Core Exercise

•

Fat Loss Coaching

•

Pregnancy, Post-natal and 3rd Age Woman’s Fitness

SAF CLEANING Professional Cleaning Services

ents

vironm

aner,

ng cle

i Provid

er en happi

CALL RACHEL ON 07946 256 982

rachel@121-fitnessandhealth.co.uk 121-fitnessandhealth.co.uk

Bio Sculpture Gel - the original gel brand 25 years of beautiful, long-lasting, strong and healthy nails The only vegan and 5* safety rated gel Home visits by Letitzia 07765 281020 happynewnails@gmail.com

Happy New Nails

Say hello 020 8393 0395

Browse our services www.safcleaningsurrey.co.uk

charity

Lunch date in PRISON anyone?

W

hen I entered the The Clink Restaurant in HMP High Down in Sutton, I was blown away.

Not just by the sleek and stylish interior, but by the welcoming and very professional staff that greeted us upon arrival. The chefs delivered equally impressive results. We enjoyed a mouthwatering, beautifully presented and a modern British lunch which was served by very pleasant and knowledgable waiters. The whole experience was wonderful and exceeded all my expectations.

To get into The Clink Restaurant was an interesting experience itself for us first time visitors to a prison.

We had to go through security clearance and be escorted through several locked doors and gates.

The first Clink Restaurant opened at HMP High Down in Surrey, when Alberto Crisci

by Marja-Leena Toseland

MBE, then catering manager, identified the need for formal training, qualifications and support for prisoners in finding a job after release. He realised the real potential in prisoners working in the kitchens and introduced City & Guilds NVQ training.

Since the first Clink Restaurant opened in 2009 they have received much recognition and respect from the hospitality industry and received more than 50 awards including the Observer Food Monthly Award for ‘Best Ethical Restaurant’ and being named Caterer.com’s ‘Ambassador to the industry’ at the 2016 People Awards.

Justice Lab report shows “statisti-

cally significant result” in reducing prisoner reoffending. This indicates that The Clink scheme has resulted in a 41% reduction in the likelihood of reoffending for those participating in the programme.

More than 800 prisoners, both men and women, have graduated from the training projects to date in their four training restaurants, two horticultural schemes and one event caterers scheme. Each prisoner receives 40 hours of training per week. With the opening of their latest restaurant at HMP Styal, The Clink can train up to 160 prisoners a day aiming to release 500 qualified Clink graduates each year by the end of 2017.

The Clink Charity is seeking support in funding (donations of any size are much appreciated), training, equipment, produce and employment opportunities. You can text to donate CLNK33£ + the amount to 70070. If you feel that you can support in any way please email: enquiries@theclinkrestaurant. com web: theclinkcharity.org

darlingmagazine.co.uk AUTUMN 2017 41

Pole Structural Engineers

Designing structures for alterations, extensions and new houses Local, friendly and professional

Admel House, 24 High Street, Wimbledon Village, SW19 5DX T: 020 8944 9955 E: mail@pole.co.uk

charity

Darling-Wim sep-oct 2013.1.indd 36

Eye-watering sum raised at

O

pole.co.uk 25/08/2013 19:54

More info on Fight for Sight: fightforsight.org.uk

n a balmy June evening at The Richmond Hill Hotel, The Eye Ball welcomed 200 guests from the local community for a fun evening: a black tie dinner in aid of Fight For Sight, The Eye Research Charity. The association with Fight For Sight is due to local Kingston teenager Maddie Perkins suffering from Stargardt’s Disease, an inherited genetic condition, which causes the loss of central vision. Despite developing the condition at aged just 13, Maddie copes extraordinarily well; she has gained a place at Leeds University and having had a year out travelling, starts her studies in October.

Fight For Sight funds pioneering eye research at the UK’s hospitals and universities, allowing the brightest minds to further research into Stargardt’s and other eye disease, whether it is genetic or age related. Organised by four friends Anneke Heaton, Kriss Guest, Anya Milligan and Kirsty Perkins, the Eye Ball benefited enormously from the generosity and extraordinary kindness of a wide range of individual supporters as well as local businesses that provided a fabulous array of raffle and auction prizes. The Eye Ball raised an amazing £36,400.40 for Fight For Sight funding more

Anneke and Graham Heaton with Kirsty Perkins

than 6 months of reasearch, split equally into Stargardts and general eye disease research projects.

Hannah Cosh, Head of Fundraising for Fight For Sight said: We are absolutely thrilled that The Eye Ball was such a success and raised such an impressive total. This will make a very significant contribution to the charity’s fundraising for 2017.

gardening column

BOX

therapy

I

Garden in a mess? f you have box topiary in your garden, then there are a couple of rather devastating issues that could compromise their health.

The first is the airborne fungal infection known as box blight. It’s a disease that was relatively unknown in the UK before the mid 1990s, and no one is quite sure where it came from. Hitherto, I have felt rather inadequate in offering up a cast-iron solution to combat this airborne fungus infection ...That is until now.

There is a product that’s fairly new to the market that is described as a ‘health-mix’ that is having some great results in combatting this awful disease in box. Often box blight is not identified until the disease has got a grip.

This ‘health-mix’ works on the theory that it prevents the fungal spores penetrating in the first place, and it’s recommended that the spray is used five times a year.

It’s a relatively new insect to Britain.

Plants looking sad?Whilst the adult moth was first reported in the UK in 2008, caterpillars of inspiration? were notRun foundout in private gardens until 2011. It has since become widespread in London and surrounding areas.

 Call me!

© 2017 Valerie McBride-Munro

Your own Action Plan Valerie will McBride Munro is a chartered help you solve horticulturist. these As Auntie Planty, she helps you develop your own garden Action Plan, to effortlessly to ensure theproblems best possible results for your plants. make your garden flourish!

AUNTIE PLANTY Auntie Planty

expert garden advice Garden Advice Gift vouchers available

www.auntieplanty.co.uk Your plants in safe horticultural hands

However, you will need to remove the worst affected parts of the plant before spraying. Follow the label instructions carefully.

020 8892 9243 • 07887 716 777

The reviews from professional head gardeners up and down the land are extremely encouraging. For more information visit www.topbuxus.co.uk The second issue is the box moth caterpillar, and the damage caused here is often mistaken for box blight.

Examine your plant/s very carefully. If you find any cob webs, or any other caterpillars show, then you must act quickly.

First of all get your hands on a product such as Bug Clear Ultra or Westland Resolva Bug Killer and spray thoroughly and forcefully every 14 days or so (not just on the outside of the plant, but part the branches and reach inside).

Treat your plants to a garden MOT!

Left to its own devices, the box moth caterpillar will completely defoliate your plant. You should then remove the damaged foliage, keep the plants well fed and watered and keep your fingers crossed.

An eye-opening journey around your garden – you will be truly inspired!

07887 716 777 | www.auntieplanty.co.uk darlingmagazine.co.uk AUTUMN 2017 43

What's ON? Hawkers Association centenary commemorative event Kingston Aviation - celebrating 100 years of aircraft designed and built in Kingston Sat 9 Sept, 2-8pm and Sun 10 Sept, 10am-4pm Great Richmond Road Factory exhibition, YMCA Hawker Centre kingstonaviation.org TryCyclingathon - Heritage and Classic Cycle Ride Sun 10 Sept, 11:45am-1:15pm For everyone who rides or wants to get back on a bicycle.

Family Ride: 11:30 to 1pm. seethingwells.org Korean Autumn Full Moon Festival (Chuseok) Sat 16 Sept, 12-4pm Parade, music and dance, folk games, taekwando, mouth-watering food and the authentic culture of Korea. One of the most important Korean holidays.

At the invitation of Kingston’s Korean community visitkingston.co.uk/events/koreanautumn-full-moon Richmond Run Fest Sat 16 (10k) and Sun 17 (half and full marathons) Sept Kew Gardens To run for The Victoria Foundation, a medical charity, go to thevictoriafoundation.org.uk Surbiton Festival 2017 Sat 23 - Sat 30 Sept Try out sailing or paddle-boarding, comedy events all week, exhibitions and painting. surbitonfestival.co.uk Kingston Half Marathon Sun 1 Oct, 8:30am Super-fast, flat course with PB potential. start and finish in Kingston Market square. kingstonhalfmarathon.com TEDx Kingston Upon Thames Salon Mon 2 Oct, 7-10pm Kingston Quaker Centre.

Mon 20 Nov 7-10pm The Cornerhouse, Tolworth Interesting speakers, specially selected TED videos and discussion, Free tedxkingstonuponthames.com

Momentum children’s charity Cabaret & Cocktails Sat 7 Oct, 7pm - midnight The Momentum Cabaret Lounge (aka a specially styled All Saints Church, Kingston). Guest star Liza Pulman and her band The Stardust Ensemble.

Cocktails, surprises and a sumptuous buffet supper. £75 each or a table for £750.

Contact Natalie at Momentum on 020 8974 5931/natalie@moment-um.org Surbiton Ski Sunday and the King’s Soup Sun 15 Oct, 11am-1pm, Free seethingwells.org National Physical Laboratory FRM4STS International Workshop Mon 16 October 2017 - Wed, 18 October 2017 Sponsored by European Space Agency Free, but registration essential frm4sts.org Remembrance Day Sun 12 November New Malden war memorial, 9:30am Kingston war memorial, 10:35, procession from Guildhall; 10:45am, short service and the laying of the wreaths.

11:15am, service at All Saints Parish Church.

Surbiton war memorial, Ewell Road,10:45am - 11:30am Teddington War Memorial, Hampton Road, 10:50am Black Comedy – a farce

by Peter Chaffer Thu 16 - Sat 18 Nov CornerHOUSE arts centre, Douglas Road, Surbiton www.thech.org Michael Frayn Theatre at Kingston Grammar School John le Carré: An Evening With George Smiley, broadcast live from Royal Festival Hall Thu 7 Sep, 7:45pm. Rated 12A CinemaLive: Carmen on the Lake, Lake Constance, from the Bregenz Festival in Austria Thu 14 Sep, 7pm. Rated 12A King Lear: CinemaLive, broadcast live from Shakespeare’s Globe Thu 21 Sept, 7:30. Rates 12A Hamlet: National Theatre Live Thu 5 Oct, 7pm Follies: National Theatre Live Thu 30 Nov, 7pm Young Marx: Nat. Theatre Live

Fri 7 Dec, 7pm For full listings and tickets visit michaelfrayntheatre.com The Rose Theatre Strictly Murder 26-30 Sept The BIG Charity Comedy Show (in aid of Momentum children’s charity) Sun 8 Nov Alistair McGowan, Andy Hamilton, Robin Ince and Sara Pascoe.

All Seats £18, Pit Cushions £8 Under 6s Series: Una Guitar Girl!

Spooky Autumn Singalong Sat 14 Oct, 10:30am For Love Or Money Tue 31 Oct - Sat 04 Nov Rules for Living Tue 07 Nov - Sat 18 Nov Shakespeare Schools Festival 2017 Mon 20 Nov - Tue 21 Nov UK’s largest youth drama festival. Over 1,000 primary, secondary and special schools stage abridged Shakespeare productions. £9 For full listings and tickets visit rosetheatrekingston.org Normansfield Theatre at Langdon Down Centre The Magnificent Music Hall 30 Sept, 7:30 -9:30pm Don Giovanni Fri 13 Oct Christmas Fair 25 Nov, 11:00am-4:30 pm Christmas Concert Dec 9, 7:30-9:30pm For full listings and tickets visit langdondowncentre.org.uk Teddington Theatre Club Under Milk Wood by Dylan Thomas Sun 17 Sep - Sat 23 Sep The Turn of the Screw by Henry James Sun 1 Oct - Sat 7 Oct Still Life & Red Peppers by Noel Coward Sun 19 Nov - Sat 25 Nov For full listings and tickets visit Hampton Hill Theatre teddingtontheatreclub.org.uk Sculpture Showcase and Arts Event Fri 3 - Sun 5 Nov, 10am - 5pm The Landmark Arts Centre at Teddington, Visitors are also able to see sculptures being created. surreysculpture.org.uk

bridge

AUTUMN BRIDGE With Darling’s Paul Mendelson Creating Connections Inspiring Success

THE LEADING INTERNATIONAL NETWORKING, TRAINING ANDKingston, Wimbledon, Putney, Balham, DEVELOPMENT BUSINESS CLUB FORCourt FEMALE Surbiton, Streatham and Hampton EXECUTIVES AND ENTREPRENEURS. VISITORS AND NEW MEMBERS WELCOME.

EMAIL ‘My vision is to encourage more women to julie@theathenanetwork.com network and in turn realise their full potential by helping and inspiring them and providing valuable connections’, says Julie HELPFUL WIMBLEDON WEBSITES Love Wimbledon WIMBLEDON, PUTNEY, BALHAM AND STREATHAM www.lovewimbledon.org London Borough of Merton Julie Eltham www.merton.gov.uk Regional Director, The Athena Network Citizen’s Advice Bureau t: @athenaSWlondon www.nacab.org.uk f: TheAthenaNetworkSurrey&SWLondon Merton Chamber of Commerce 07890 523030 www.mertonchamber.co.uk e: julie.eltham@theathenanetwork.com Wimbledon Town Centre www.wimbledontowncentre.co.uk w: theathenanetwork.co.uk/julieeltham Wimbledon Civic Forum www.wimbledoncivicforum.org.uk Wimbledon Society www.wimbledonmuseum.org.uk

Wimbledon Community Centre www.wimbledoncommunity.org.uk Volunteer Centre Merton

www.volunteercentremerton.org.uk COLLECT COPIES AT OUR 'HOTSPOTS' Learning & Skills Council Please call first to check stocks www.lsc.gov.uk Charity Commission Rose Theatre, www.charitycommission.gov.uk 24-26 High Street, Kingston, Tel: 020 8546 6983 Wimbledon Music Diary Fratelli Delicatessen, 55-57 Park Road, Kingston, www.wimbledonmusicdiary.com Bridge exercises the mind and is a great Tel: 020 8549 8021 Wimbledon Choral Society way to meet new friends.

U.R.Beautiful, 1st Floor, Boots, 42 Union Street, www.wimbledon-choral.org.uk Kingston, Tel: 020 8247 0386 Come and see what the game involves Local Police/Neighbourhood Watch Rozwww.met.police.uk/saferneighbourhoods ana, 4-8 Kingston Hill, Kingston, at a free taster session.

Tel:The 020 Wimbledon 8546 6388 Guild Beginner courses: small class sizes of up www.wimbledonguild.co.uk The French Tarte, 45 High St, Teddington, Tel:Care 020 8977 6063 to 8 students.

Connect

www.merton.gov.uk/living/care/careconnect Normansfield Theatre - Langdon Down Centre, 2A LangImprover classes also available. donwww.centrecourtshopping.co.uk Park, Teddington, TW11 9PS

Missing Your

darling Magazine?

BRIDGE FOR BEGINNERS

TheIMPORTANT French Tarte, 83 Maple Road, Surbiton, NUMBERS For details please contact Hilary on Tel: 020 8399 1123

Wimbledon Police

St George’s Hospital

07816 982 030

Pickled Pantry,1212 St Mark's Hill, Surbiton, 020 8947 or (999) 020 8672 1255 Tel:Merton 020 8399Council 4694 Kingston Hospital candh12@aol.com 8274 4901 020 8546 7711 The020 Glasshouse, 14 Coombe Road, facebook: @hilarystewartbridgelessons New Malden, Tel: 020 8942 4650 National Rail NHS DIRECT 22 Lindisfarne Road, SW20 0NW 08457 484950 The0845 Place,4647 58 High Street, New Malden, Tel: 0208 241 6591

44

feb-march 2012 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

To attempt the impossible may be considered by some to be heroic but, at the bridge table, it is nothing but stupidity. Yet, we all seem to do it…

COLLECT COPIES AT OUR “HOTSPOTS”

♠

♥

♦

♣

* Nicholas & SteeleNorth 78 Durham Rd Tel: 07947 011879S K4

H J9876 D Wimbledon K1093 * Maison St. Cassien, Village WestTel: 020 8944 1200C Q10 East S J87652 S 1093 H K* Southfields Gallery 223 Wimbledon Park H Rd A542 D AQ2 D 865 Tel: 07947 675 059 C 865 C 972 South * Truckles Deli on Coombe Lane SW20 S AQ Tel: 020 8605 2175 H Q103 D J74 * Aromatica Italian Deli on Leopold Rd C AKJ43 Tel: 020 8944 0309

Please call first to check stocks

Dealer South N E 2H

NB

E/W Game S 1C 3NT

W 1S

West led 6♠. Declarer counted two spades and five club tricks, so he decided to attack his longest suit, hearts, for the extra tricks. But, the lead has knocked out one spade stopper and, when he lost the first heart, a second spade dislodged his final spade stopper. When he lost a second heart, his opponents took four spade tricks and A♦, to defeat him by three tricks. Declarer played for the impossible and, unsurprisingly, found it didn’t work!

With seven easy tricks, South requires only two more. If he attacks the diamond suit, he needs only for West to hold Q♦ to lose only one trick and set up two more for certain. At trick 2, South leads J♦ and West probably wins with A♦ and leads another spade. Declarer wins and leads a low diamond.

When West plays low, declarer puts on 9♦ from dummy and holds his breath. When this holds, his contract is secure. A risky line, yes, but it is both the best one available and, crucially, one which is not impossible. aceoftrumps.com

darlingmagazine.co.uk AUTUMN 2017 45

point of view

Hate the rat race?

Then

WALK...

A

re you stuck in the concrete jungle thinking “I’m a human, get me out of here?”

Commuter trains, treadmill routine and corporate back stabbing makes one yearn for sunnier climes. “One day…” I hear you sigh.

Well, Darling readers, that day of reckoning has now come! Let me lead you into the wilderness, not out of it. Become a Digital Nomad - a person who runs their business online, from anywhere on the planet.

Speak to Debra Sofia Magdalene, who on turning fifty, shed her possessions and gave her kids six months notice to leave home. She now goes where the wind blows, whilst earning money holding retreats to show the rest of us how to follow suit. Ironic genius! Her next one is in Glastonbury 22nd September.

So, what can Debra teach us? To start, Google house and pet-sitting agencies. Yes, dear hearts - free world accommodation (all house bills paid) in glorious spots from the mountains to the beaches.

Debra tells me about an artist in France who only returns when she runs out of money to find work via an agency as a live-in carer on a short contract.

Start with what you find fascinating. For example, if you’re a dab hand with the mystical, think about being an online astrologer or tarot reader. Debra has

46

AUTUMN 2017 darlingmagazine.co.uk

helped one lady who supplements this skill with tours to sacred sites.

If you want to think bigger, check out Laura’s achievements and her House of Coco online and print magazine - run by travel and fashion digital nomads from a virtual office. Or maybe create a personal training course empire, like Sara Lou Ann’s Centre of Excellence - so far, over 400,000 have obtained online diplomas.

As for myself, my wedding sketches can be done on a beach in India via emailed photos, and the artwork delivered to brides on return. Same with my mobile phone Game Of Stones treasure hunt. The game is already set up after hard work, but is now just controlled online. So I only need to distribute leaflets round Kingston, and stock up the prizes …before taking off again.

It’s all about the future. I’m planning to be free enough to meet another digital nomad who travels Peru with her 9 year old, making raw chocolate, and doing outdoor chocolate massages with the coconut based goo. Hey, don’t judge us… join us. x You’ll find Lyndsay’s businesses on gamesofstones.events and weddingfashionsketches.com

A5Flyer.qxp_Layout 1 11/09/2015 13:06 Page 1

Is someone in your family missing what you say?

Select Hearing Care now at Hatch End Eye Care Opticians

Hearing Aids & Hearing Assessment

in Richmond, London and the South East At Richmond Hearing Care we provide sound hearing solutions and professional care from a completely independent company at a fair price

£100

OFF

Our friendly and highly experienced experts are available to help with any hearing loss. Unlike some high street hearing aid companies, we do not use repackaged, old technology and are not owned by, or tied to any hearing aid manufacturer. We dispense only the latest technology at price and Aids give * alla fair Hearing a price match guarantee.

• Absolutely independent Call us now to book an appointment to • Free hearing assessments see our hearing aid expert 020 8428 0025 • 30-50% less than high street prices Paul McKay RHAD MSHAA • Up to 60 day trial periods Hear home well invisit noise again • • Free service Invisible hearing aids • • Free aftercare Free Hearing & lifetime aftercare Local independents • • New range of tests invisible hearing aids come out on top • 60 day trial period • All the latest hearing aids available in Which survey • Friendly and 20 years of experience • Hear well in noise and social situations • Micro Wax Suction available 394 Uxbridge Road, Hatch End, HA5 4HP.

report Nov 2014 states: “You’re best off with an independent (hearing aid) retailer rather than a national chain.”

Appointments available 8am-8pm

info@hatchendeyecare.com www.hatchendeyecare.com

269 Upper Richmond Road West, East Sheen, London, *terms andSW14 conditions8QS apply. t: 0208 004 7991 e: info@richmondhearing.co.uk w: richmondhearing.co.uk