Darling Magazine Kingston & Surbiton Nov-Jan 2016

darling Nov 2015 – Jan 2016 free

ÁINE LARK DRAMA PRO at the helm of Kingston Arts

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11+ EXAMS

GIFT GUIDE

are nearing but there's still time to consider your choices

get inspired to start your CHRISTMAS SHOPPING

USE IT OR LOSE IT

SPOILT FOR CHOICE

hearing loss and dementia are linked

TOP local restaurants for your FESTIVE CELEBRATIONS

HOW I ESCAPED NORTH KOREA

EASY STEPS

Gang Ji-yeong's MOVING STORY

to taking

BETTER PICTURES of your children

inspiring women in kingston and surbiton | www.darlingmagazine.co.uk

Hands on care 98% of patients rated the quality of our care as excellent or very good* That’s because all of our staff believe every aspect of a patient’s treatment should be handled with care, compassion and to the highest standards.

To find out more call 020 8949 9000 | Visit www.newvictoria.co.uk

*NVH independent patient satisfaction survey 2015

Find us just off the A3... 184 Coombe Lane West, Kingston upon Thames, KT2 7EG

editor’s letter

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Dear Darling reader,

Cover: ÁINE LARK Photography by Cythare Cooper www.cythare.com Photographed at Court Farm Café, Court Farm Garden Centre in Tolworth Jewellery by Stella & Dot

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Publisher Darling Magazine UK Karine Torr Editor Marja-Leena Toseland All Enquiries 07802 949836 Email kingston@ darlingmagazine.co.uk Contributors Lyndsay Russell, Paul Mendelson Photography Cythare Cooper www.cythare.com

Welcome to this winter issue. Thankfully, we celebrate Christmas right in the middle of our darkest and coldest time of the year. As historians tell us, it could have been a spring celebration just as easily. And it’s not just Christmas that brings us lights, presents and parties; Diwali kick-starts the festive season, falling on November 11th this year and we don’t stop celebrating until past the New Year. So get ready! We have chosen topics to help you make the most of the season in and around Kingston. A guide for great gifts for all the family, top restaurants in which to eat, drink and party, beauty and hair treatments to get you looking your best and a professional photographer’s tips for taking better snaps of your children.

Our regular advertisers and contributors continue to bring us a wealth of topics from hearing loss and dementia links by Paul McKay at Richmond Hearing; Hart Brown Solicitors tell us what to consider when writing wills; how to prepare for an injury-free ski season at New Victoria Hospital; our garden guru, Valerie Munro, makes beautiful presents using ingredients from her garden, so you can too; and don't miss Lyndsay Russell’s take on the Christmas tree, the mother of all decorations. Let's not forget the arts; Festival of the Voice is in full swing until 5th December; go and enjoy the amazingly varied performances! Rose Theatre’s Christmas production, A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, is a must-see for families – it opens on 1st December.

I wish you a wonderful season of festivities and a very happy 2016!

Design Anu West info@apila.co.uk

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

Printer Aquatint/bsc jane@aquatintbsc.co.uk

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Distribution Three Colours Ltd info@3colours.co.uk Darling Wimbledon Karine Torr: 07930 396356 Darling Cobham, Esher & Weybridge Philippa Hennessy: 07772 633339 Darling Sevenoakes & Tunbridge Wells Tam Jackson: 01892 506894

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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.

CONTENTS Editor's letter A little inspiration to help you choose the perfect Christmas gift Áine Lark – not an inch of drama queen in this queen of drama Festive season local restaurant guide Cook's corner Hard work never killed anyone Take better photos of your children Definitive link proven between hearing loss and dementia U.R Beautiful Day Spa – an oasis in the middle of Kingston Amazing Gaia healing workshops at your doorstep in Kingston Slave to the shave?

Why do people want to care?

Will Power with Chris Thurlow at Hart Brown Solicitors One woman’s journey from North Korea to New Malden Make your ski trip a safe one People out and about in and around Kingston It's time to feast at absolute abode Make your home a haven Beanstalk – helping fulfil children's potential Gardening column – gorgeous gifts from your garden What's on?

World class winners – Paul Mendelson's bridge column Lyndsay Russell's point of view

darlingmagazine.co.uk | nov 2015 – jan 2016

3

A little inspiration to help you...

For the men in your life….........................

Mr Mullan’s high quality beard grooming products are all handcrafted in England. All beard oils and waxes are made from natural ingredients and Mr Mullan will continue to develop a wider range of products for all your grooming needs. His luxury beard brushes, moustache combs and grooming tools are all made out of Ox horn with our logo engraved.

Stuck for a Christmas present for your partner, colleagues or son? Men love Stein's big beers, sausages and relaxed atmosphere! Treat them to a meal and drink at Stein's - or invite them for a Christmas duck feast! Choose what you want to include from the menu or a value for the voucher.

To buy vouchers email kingston@stein-s.com

Available at Stone Hair Salon 41 Old London Road, Kingston | www.stone-hair.com For other stockists visit www.mrmullans.bigcartel.com/ stockists

She will love these...................................

Natural Facelift Massage: a truly unique treatment and perfect gift for any woman. Mary’s facial massage treatments are SW18’s best kept secret and are quite simply, addictive! Following her signature facial massage treatment, your face is so uplifted and refreshed that you walk away looking years younger! (WJ)

For treatments & gift vouchers: Mary Dalgleish (Therapist & Trainer) www.head2toemassage.co.uk 02088749047 or 07932735742

Shoes at last is celebrating Christmas in style, with lovely warm sheepskin gloves, cosy sheepskin slippers and faux fur collars, key-rings and hats.

For the cold, crisp, weather, grey lace up, rubber ankle and neoprene boots in black or brown are lovely and warm.

Ideal for walking off the Christmas lunch.

20% off for Darling readers, offer ends 31st December 2015.

Shoes at last, 81 Maple Road, Surbiton, 0208 390 5673 www.shoesatlast.com

For those who enjoy the finer things.................

Wined Up Here is the ideal destination for interesting gifts…from superb wine, local beers and specialist spirits to artisan cheese & bread.

Accompaniments from Vallebona & Peters Yard…

30 Coombe Road Kingston upon Thames, KT2 7AG Tel: 0208 549 6622

James Bond Limited Edition Vintage Bollinger £125 per bottle Becketts Kingston Gin £39.99 Park Brewery Beers £20 for 6 in a Hessian Bag Coombeside Honey £9.99 Shorrocks Lancashire Cheese Bombs £9.99

...CHOOSE THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS GIFT You won’t get it wrong for your teens with this............................

The Spaced360 Bluetooth-enabled portable speaker claims to deliver a "spinetingling" sound – whether at a house party, a summer barbecue or a bedroom disco.

The Spaced360 has three neo speakers and three bass radiators that are all equally spaced, providing 360-degree sound.

Users can stream music to the speaker directly from their smartphone or laptop, either by choosing it from a list of available Bluetooth devices, or by touching an NFCenabled device on top of the unit. Retails at £250.

Widely available online and from good electrical retailers.

Delight the little ones.......................................................... absolute abode prides itself on the best in craftsmanship, whether it is our artisan coffee, the beautiful interiors we design or the gifts we sell in our emporium. This gorgeous Circus Elephant Push Along is no different. Handpainted in circus colours, it's not just a gorgeous gift for your little darlings to find under the tree, it'll also help them find their feet! www.absoluteabode.com | phone 0208 090 3212

For everyone else….......................................

For new parents…..............

Watch me grow!

Give a ‘Baby’s 1st Year’ package to new parents, they’ll get three shoots – newborn, 6 months and one year and they will receive a beautiful folio with an image from each shoot (£75 for Darling readers). ‘Bump to Baby’ also available. www.kjphotographic.com Call 07771648111 for more information.

Bikram Yoga Surbiton is owned by two of the UK’s most experienced yoga teachers and offers a variety of classes, both cool and heated. Treat a friend this Christmas - a gift that is sure to be appreciated after the festive indulgences. £20 offer for two weeks that gives you unlimited access to try as many classes as you like!

Bikram Yoga Surbiton, 60-63 Victoria Rd, Surbiton KT6 4NQ. Tel: 020 8399 0220 info@bikramyogasurbiton.com www.bikramyogasurbiton.com

For the grown-ups amongst you, absolute abode has just what you need to enjoy the company of friends and family, or relax and pamper yourself. Why not pick from a range of retro-styled gifts that don't require batteries or a plug; the sort that your parents and grandparents enjoyed as children, but are still fun for the whole family today? Find out who’s the film buff of the family; enjoy a game of backgammon or poker or, if you want to take time out from it all, enjoy a sensory experience in the privacy of your own bath that only the finest sea salts can provide.

Treat someone special to a fabulous Warren House Champagne Afternoon Tea for Two. Lucky recipients will enjoy; a delicious array of finger sandwiches, a selection of sweet pastries and desserts (including our house speciality – chocolate dipped strawberries), freshly baked scones with cream and preserves, a choice of fine teas plus, of course, a glass of perfectly chilled Champagne.

Vouchers are available at Warren House or can be purchased online at Warren House, Warren Road, Kingston upon Thames, Surrey KT2 7HT www.warrenhouse.com/gift_vouchers.php

inspiring woman

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Not an inch of drama queen in this queen of drama

Kingston’s arts scene has Áine Lark to thank for its vibrancy, especially in performing arts. Darling finds out what the front woman of Kingston Arts has up her sleeve.

By Marja-Leena Toseland

Á

ine Lark juggles her time between working full-time as a drama teacher at a secondary school and as the Chair of both National Drama and Kingston Arts. Currently, she is putting the final touches on the Kingston Arts’ flagship event, Festival of the Voice, running from November 1st - December 5th. This hugely popular and diverse Festival, encouraging people to ‘Sing, Speak, Listen and Celebrate’, wouldn’t be the same without Áine’s tireless energy and expertise in putting it all together.

Your CV lists an impressive array of drama qualifications and experience. What has been your route to where you are today – leading a fantastic arts organisation?

“I have come from a predominantly drama and theatre background and in fact met my husband, Alistair, while we were both members

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nov 2015 – jan 2016 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

of the Questors Theatre, Ealing.

I was acting and directing while he was writing music and creating sound effects. Sharing our passion for all things artistic, we have worked together in a creative capacity for 13 years. These days, Al is a tremendous support to Kingston Arts, in his role as vice-chair and technical expert.

My love and appreciation of the arts has led me into various roles and along many paths. I have had opportunities to work across a wide range of school settings, promoting learning through creativity. My work has extended to the wider community through posts such as Head of Kingston Music and Arts Service. In this role, I created arts packages and festivals, developed significant working partnerships with other artists and organisations, supported the Rose Theatre as its education consultant and sat on the steering committee for the International Youth Arts Festival during its early stages. Increasingly, I have found myself leading on multiarts projects and was invited to join the executive panel of Kingston Arts Council, being appointed as Chair of the organisation four years ago.”

inspiring woman

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Can you tell us a bit about Kingston Arts and its plans for arts in Kingston? Are there new events and initiatives in the pipeline?

“Kingston Arts supports a broad membership of creative people and those who enjoy and wish to nurture the arts. It was established almost 50 years ago and continues to evolve and grow. The upcoming Festival of the Voice showcases many new initiatives including ‘Early Nights Club’ at the Lovekyn Chapel - Medieval, Tudor and Restoration music, led by Princes in the Tower. Audiences will enjoy songs, stories and dance tunes with guest performers, early music recordings and an open mic session for aspiring performers of historical treasures. ‘Speak up Sundays’ introduces a new series of workshops designed to promote public speaking, confidence building and acting skills. One of our most ambitious projects for

2016 will be laying the foundations of a Kingston Arts Fringe Festival.”

How does Kingston Arts support local artists and work together with other local arts groups?

“Kingston Arts has an executive committee which meets regularly to discuss the direction of the arts in Kingston and responds to the needs of its members. We host networking events, plan and deliver festivals, provide rehearsal space, curate and manage an art gallery and maintain a lively website for promotion of local arts groups. We also provide support in more practical areas such as policy writing, grant applications, audio visual and technical support and more general advice.”

Do you see yourself more a teacher or a driving force in Kingston's arts life?

“I feel a strong commitment and sense of responsibility to both. In the current climate of ‘commissioning’, my energies are heavily directed towards refining and defining the shape and future of the arts in Kingston. At the same time, I am campaigning on a national level with my colleagues at National Drama to maintain drama as a respected and valued subject within schools.”

You are originally from Northern Ireland. What brought you to Kingston and made you set up home here?

“My appointment as Head of Drama at Tolworth Girls’ School was my first introduction to Kingston and primarily the reason I moved here. I have stayed because I enjoy Kingston’s history and culture, its vibrant river scene and all it has to offer as a borough!”

darlingmagazine.co.uk | nov 2015 – jan 2016

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SPOILT FOR CHOICE – top local resta Côte – Christmas with French flavours Located on Kingston Riverside, Côte Brasserie is the perfect venue for an elegant Christmas party. Our delicious Christmas menus are inspired by our much-loved French brasserie classics, but with special seasonal touches to help you celebrate your Christmas party in style.

Our Christmas menu (£29,95) is available for all party bookings, alternatively our Christmas lunch menu (£19,95), which offers something just a little lighter, is available between 12-5pm. Both menus will be served from 16th November right up until 24th December.

To see the full menus, and for details of our Christmas champagne offer please contact the restaurant directly on: 020 8546 9422 | www.cote-restaurants.co.uk

Jin Jin Chinese Restaurant and Bar At Jin Jin we serve a large selection of specialities from Canton as well as more spicy Sichuan dishes.

Our ground floor is perfect for a quick lunch or to stop for a drink and delicious snacks. Our first floor is a fantastic venue for private parties, small and large. We are looking forward to welcoming you at Christmas time to enjoy our seasonal dishes. With pre-booking in December, customers will receive a free side dish and a free dessert.

Located in the centre of Kingston, near the river. www.jinjinkingston.com | 020 8549 6638

Live music at PizzaExpress The Wednesday Live Playlist brings you a collection of vibrant, energetic music played by top class musicians singing songs by world famous artists from Stevie Wonder and Daft Punk to Prince.

Borne from the world famous sister club, PizzaExpress Jazz Club in Soho, which is celebrating its 50th year in music, Kingston promises to be every little bit as fun in its own unpretentious way of listening to amazing music, up close and personal with great food.

Kingston Music, free entry and every Wednesday, giving you a weekly selection of toe-tapping, upbeat tracks while you enjoy great pizza and a fun night out with friends. Music starts at 8pm.

PizzaExpress Kingston, 41 High Street | 020 7439 4962 www.pizzaexpresslive.com

aurants for your FESTIVE CELEBRATIONS Enjoy a cosy Christmas at Riverside Edge Come and indulge in the festive cheer at la luna di luca or Bagley and Shakespeare at riverside-edge next to Kingston bridge. La luna di luca is a wonderfully relaxed Sardinian restaurant with the most gorgeous riverside views. La luna di luca prides itself on its authenticity, serving delicious pastas and pizzas and some wonderful fish.

The Bagley & Shakespeare seafood and champagne bar started out at Maltby Street Market in Bermondsey and have built a reputation of providing some of the best quality seafood in London. Oysters, lobster and crab are beautifully prepared and presented. Best washed down with a delicious rhubarb Bellini.

La luna di luca 07747 104 827 | Bagley & Shakespeare 07860 288 839 Facebook Kingston Riverside Edge | Twitter RIVERSIDEEDGEKT1 | Instagram kingstonriversideedge

Christmas at Stein’s Kingston Don’t miss the opportunity to delight your staff and friends with a unique Bavarian atmosphere this Christmas! We are serving a festive roast duck menu or you can order from our full à la carte menu. Beer, wine and cocktail lovers will be well catered for too. Decorated with beautiful wreaths, Stein’s is a magical place at Christmas. It’s like stepping into a cosy chalet, every single item from the timber cladding to the benches and antlers have been carefully selected and imported from Germany and Austria. The result is a truly unique and authentic atmosphere.

56 High Street KT1 1HN www.stein-s.com/kingston | 020 8546 2411

Celebrate Christmas in style at Warren House The festive season is meant to be a time of celebration and relaxation with family and friends. At Warren House our excellent team takes care of everything, so all you have to do is sit back, relax and enjoy a stress-free Christmas.

Our seasonal offerings include; Christmas Lunch, Boxing Day Lunch and our hugely popular Festive Afternoon Teas. Warren House is also an ideal venue for private dining and group celebrations from small, family parties to large, corporate events.

For information call 020 8547 1777 or see www.warrenhouse.com Warren House, Warren Rd, Kingston upon Thames, Surrey KT2 7HY

cookery

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Cook's corner Raw Christmas Cake

There is nothing like cake at Christmas time and, for people that have dairy and gluten intolerances or seek a healthier option, I’ve come up with a solution that all the family will love!

Ingredients for a large cake /12 slices.

1 cup = 8 fl oz/250 ml Ingredients for base • 1 cup almonds, soaked for at least 1 hour and water discarded • 1 cup mixed seeds (I like using pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds and hemp seeds) • ½ cup of walnuts • 8 ¼ cup raisins or incan berries • ¼ cup of goji berries • ¼ cup of dried cranberries (without sulphur dioxide) • 1 cup pitted dates • 1 tbsp maple syrup • ½ tsp ground cinnamon • ½ tsp mixed spice • 1 tbsp grated orange zest

Ingredients for topping • 3 tbsp coconut butter melted • 1 cup cashews, soaked for at least 30 mins • ½ tin coconut milk • 1 tsp grated orange zest • 1 tsp ground cinnamon • 3 tbsp maple syrup or agave nectar • ½ tsp vanilla extract or vanilla pod extract Method for base Blend the seeds and nuts in a food processor until a biscuit-like consistency. Add the remaining ingredients and blend until all the fruit is broken down and you have a dough-like consistency.

Pour into silicon mould and press firmly down with your hand, making a firm base. Place in the freezer while you make the topping.

Method for topping Blend the cashew nuts, coconut butter,

Fratelli’s – For the Authentic Italian Taste 57 Park Road, Kingston upon Thames, KT2 6DB www.fratellidelicatessen.com 020 8549 8021

maple syrup and coconut milk in a food processor until creamy. Mix in the vanilla, cinnamon and orange zest.

Pour this over the base and spread out evenly. Place the cake back in the freezer to set for 30mins.

You can keep this cake covered in the freezer until the day you want to eat it. Take it out 1 hour prior to eating and leave to defrost. Serve chilled with some grated orange zest.

Recipe by Juliette Bryant www.julietteskitchen.tv

Akbar tandoori restaurant

authentic bangladeshi and indian cuisine

Fratelli Delicatessen is a restaurant, take-away café and deli all in one.

SPICE UP YOUR LIFE!

Alongside the variety of food available from our Deli counter we also offer a broad range of wines including some of the finest vintage Italian wine.

Exclusive to Darling readers: Takeaway & deliveries 10% off * (£15.00 minimum spend) All dine-in meals (mention Darling) 10% off * Every Wednesday 3-course dine-in meal * Limited period only at the Akbar £10.95

020 8546 6835 | 020 8546 9211 54 Richmond Road, Kingston, KT2 5EH web: www.akbarindianrestaurant.co.uk email: theakbar546@gmail.com

Our delicious panettones are in for Christmas.

Perfect for an indulgent breakfast or to give to favourite friends.

education

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HARD WORK never killed anyone For parents with children embarking on the 11 plus route, it’s decision time, but Sandra Nardi reminds you that whatever your child's academic levels are, there’s a school out there destined to make them flourish

T

he Michaelmas term brings an air of nervous expectancy to the school gates where the topic du jour is the imminent admissions deadline to sit the January 10 or 11 plus entrance exams at independent schools, for September 2016 entry. Panic not, the doors are still open to schools such as Hampton Court House, The Lady Eleanor Holles School, St George's Weybridge, Kingston Grammar School and King's College School, giving you time to post your child’s application.

All schools set a maths and english paper and some, a verbal and non-verbal reasoning exam, to identify a pupil’s natural aptitude that can't be taught or tutored. If your child passes, an interview will follow. The second stage of the selection process takes the child's report into consideration and often an interview with the child and sometimes the parents. Every independent school has its own ethos for testing children’s academic abilities so early on but believe it’s necessary to ensure they’re able to cope with the academic rigour.

With the welcomed Flexible Schools Admission campaign, coupled with the continual quandary of girls out-performing boys and state vs private schools' success rates, it’s interesting to dig a little deeper into how these schools ensure a fair admissions demographic. Kingston Grammar’s latest statistics show that 66% of 2015 admissions are from state schools and that the verbal reasoning exam was graded by the child's birth month. Hampton Court House has noticed a 50% split between state and private and offers a repeat year for August birthdays if

requested. Meanwhile, St George’s Weybridge declares that birth dates (to the nearest month) are calculated for each applicant and tests are age adjusted accordingly.

With 383 girls and 526 boys on its current school roll, the number of girls is now at its highest since the college moved away from single sex to coeducational almost 20 years ago. Headmaster Joe Peak, who meets hundreds of prospective families every year wrestling between single sex and coeducational, has noticed that: ‘The trend to attract more and more girls to balance the number of boys has been increasing over recent years...

darlingmagazine.co.uk | nov 2015 – jan 2016

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education

............. ...and looks set to continue.

There are merits in both types of upbringing, yet the message we are getting is the more relaxed environment is the preferred one - where girls and boys can grow naturally together into balanced young people and still perform academically well.’

Elsewhere, at King's College School, the number of 11 plus places is dramatically on the rise to support a cross section of children and the discovery that St John’s will be following suit in 2016, is further affirmation of an emerging pattern.

For more information, contact Sandra at the Parent Education Consultancy.

Fast Stitch QP Mar 12 RICH 17/02/2012 12:24 Page 1

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At Fast Stitch we pride ourselves in providing a personal bespoke service; which includes: • Professional alteration tailoring • Making all types of clothes fit • Free fitting by experts Fast Stitch incorporating

The Clean Machine Bespoke personal Dry Cleaning • Established 1993 service, including: • Exclusive Hand Finish Dry Cleaning • Hand finish pressing • Stain removal • Specialists in wedding dresses & designer labels KINGSTON 020 8546 8405 44 Old London Road Kingston KT2 6QF

KINGSTON 020 8549 7612 Unit 3 Kingston Station KT1 1UJ

RICHMOND 020 8940 4789 18 Eton Street Richmond TW9 1EE

www.tailors-kingston.co.uk

OFFER 10% discount with this voucher

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living life

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Take better photos of your children We asked Kels from KJ Photographic how to improve our snapping skills – here are a few of her tips...

Get to know your equipment

Firstly, learn how to use your camera. If you don’t feel comfortable getting off your automatic setting just yet, see what presets your camera has and learn how to turn on and off your flash (this Christmas photo of my children would have been ruined with an automatic flash).

De-clutter

Everyone has seen wedding table photos where faces are obscured by wine bottles or table numbers, take a minute to move things out of the way or move yourself if you can’t.

Time of day

If your children are about to have a nap or due a feed, you are not going to get the best from them. The time of day you choose will also affect your lighting, avoid midday - morning and late afternoon light is much more flattering.

Prepare your models!

If you’re taking photos for something in particular, such as a birth announcement card, make sure you’ve cleaned baby’s face and put them in clothes you like. Avoid big logos and slogans and check colours don’t clash.

Props

Use toys to entertain children or for them to be photographed with. For young babies you will need something to support them if you don’t want to photograph them on their backs. A pillow or your partner’s shoulder will do.

Position

Sometimes a shot from above can look good but most of the time it’s better to get down to their level - I’m normally lying on the floor in my shoots.

Shoot LOTS

Gone are the days you had 36 shots and you had to pay to develop your films, so take advantage and take lots of photographs. You can then edit your shots and learn what works best.

Have fun

Most of all, have fun, get the kids to play games in the garden or a park and photograph them while they’re relaxed. Tickle them, say silly things and sing songs to get them to smile - make the experience enjoyable.

Happy snapping! www.kjphotographic.com

darlingmagazine.co.uk | nov 2015 – jan 2016

13

B eautiful

U.R Book your Christmas Beauty update with one of our two special offers

BEAUTY, MEDISPA & HAIRSALON

Package 2 Manicure Pedicure Spray Tan Eye Brow Shape

£90

£130

Package 1 Manicure Pedicure Environ Facial Combination Tint Eye Brow Shape

BY URBAN RETREAT

Upgrade to Shellac for an extra £20!

www.serenity-salon.co.uk | 020 8546 6966 SerenityKingston

SerenityKT2

Surbiton Veterinary Hospital 30 Claremont Road, Surbiton KT6 4RF 020 8399 6666

Exciting News!

We are being transformed into a state of the art hospital. Our ma jor refurbishment and extension project is close to completion and will be ready by early 2016.

24 HOU

SERV R OPEN ICE USUAAS L

VISIT US 1ST FLOOR BOOTS

Our family run practice provides a high quality caring service for all pets. To celebrate our new 24 hour Veterinary Hospital, which will provide a unique blend of primary and specialist care, we are pleased to offer the following discounts to the whole community!

020 8247 0386

Fantastic Special Offers valid until June 2016 35% off all vaccinations 25% off all flea and worming treatments • 20% off all neutering • £12 microchipping • FREE 2nd Opinion Consultations (see if our specialists can help you) • FREE new puppy and kitten health checks •

•

To take advantage of the above offers please register with us on 0208 399 6666 and bring this leaflet with you to the appointment.

Tel: 020 8399 6666 Email: hksurbiton@gmail.com Surbiton Veterinary Hospital

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First Floor, Boots 42 Union Street Kingston upon Thames Surrey, KT1 1RP www.ur-beautiful.com

health and wellbeing promotion

........................................

RICHMOND HEARING LOCAL INDEPENDENT HEARING AID SPECIALISTS

Definitive link proven between

report Nov 2014 states:

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

hearing loss and dementia Have you ever heard the term ‘Use it or lose it’? Well a recent study by the world renowned John Hopkins hospital in the USA has proven just that! The study observed 1,984 adults with a mean age of 77.4 years over six years, tracking the progression of their hearing loss in relation to their cognitive function. Although further research is needed to identify how and why the mechanics of hearing loss contribute to such mental decline, the link is definitive.

The only treatment for age or noise related permanent hearing loss is to use the latest high technology “invisible” hearing aids which automatically adjust to help you hear better in every situation including restaurants and background noise. We even let you take any hearing aid system home before deciding whether to keep or return it” says Paul Mckay RHAD MSHAA who has 20 years experience.

Mr Paul McKay RHAD MSHAA

At Richmond hearing we have all the latest diagnostic equipment including REMS, speech mapping and wax micro suction removal. We are also independent, and are not tied to or owned by any specific hearing aid manufacturer, as most of the high street stores are.

NEW STATE OF THE ART HEARING CENTRE OPENING SOON IN RICHMOND. Internet prices now available until 2016 CLINICS: Eyecare Opticians (Kingston), The Groves Medical Centre (New Malden), The Vineyard Surgery (Richmond).

To book an appointment, please call 0208 004 7991 www.richmondhearing.co.uk

U.R Beautiful Day Spa - an oasis in the middle of Kingston Meet our expert team: U.R Beautiful Beauty Claire Symes and her team of therapists are highly trained in many indulgent and pampering treatments and home care regimes, including facials by Decleor, Guinot, Dr. Murad, Mama Mio and ZO. Expert manicurists and nail technicians are on hand to treat your hands and feet in luxurious surroundings.

U.R Beautiful Medi-Spa Led by Emma Warner, an expert in medical grade and professional skin care solutions. Emma can advise on a vast array of specialised skin care treatments and home care. The treatments offered include laser hair removal, skin rejuvenation, semi-permanent makeup, electrolysis, Circadia & ZO skin peels, dermaroller, microdermabrasion, acne scarring, stretch mark and rosacea solutions.

U.R Beautiful Hair Designer Team Offer you in-depth consultations to determine your needs and to ensure that you receive the perfect hairstyle and colour to suit you.

Style Director, Sam Simpson, recently joined U.R Beautiful bringing a wealth of specialised, cutting and colour expertise.

Jane, our colour specialist, offers expert colour techniques and Wioleta, a Sassoon trained creative stylist, complete the highly

skilled team who offer individual advice and bespoke hair design.

U.R Beautiful is an exclusive L'Oréal Salon and the design team is trained regularly in the very latest colour and cutting techniques.

A warm welcome awaits you and, on your next visit to U.R Beautiful, please bring this article and you will receive : *£10 off any hairdressing service over a minimum spend of £30.

Call 020 8247 0386 to book your next appointment. www.ur-beautiful.com (*Conditions apply, not in conjunction with any other discount, excludes Saturdays and applies to services only.)

Located on the first floor of Boots Kingston 42A Union St, Kingston upon Thames, KT1 1RP

darlingmagazine.co.uk | nov 2015 – jan 2016

15

RICHMOND HEARING LOCAL INDEPENDENT HEARING AID SPECIALISTS

Available to test your hearing at The Vineyard Surgery.

Are you or a loved one missing things in conversation?

Don’t suffer in silence!

Call now to arrange an appointment with our hearing aid expert, Paul McKay, RHAD MSHAA

tel: 020 8004 7991 • • • •

micro suction wax removal available latest technology invisible aids hearing aids available to take away on the day

The Vineyard Surgery, 35 The Vineyard, Richmond TW10 6P​P

60-day trial and money back guarantee!

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nov 2015 – jan 2016 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

£100 off all

hearing aids with this voucher

wellbeing promotion

..........................

No need to travel to India You can now attend amazing healing workshops on your doorstep in Kingston!

by Nicola Swan

I

never set out to become a healer. Yet in 1995, after meeting Shimara, founder of Gaia Healing, and experiencing the benefits myself, I was hooked. I knew that every time I did any of this ‘energy work’ I just felt so much better for it. Twice a year for the next 20 years I attended virtually all of Shimara’s workshops.

Then early last year, out of the blue, Shimara rang me and invited me to train to become one of her teachers.

Thus began my perfect calling to practise and teach a therapy which has become my passion.

Gaia Level 1 is an introduction to healing, offering an energy attunement which enables participants to channel healing energy through their hands. This begins a ‘cleansing cycle’ in which the energy continues to work, clearing your chakras for 21 days. Level 1 is primarily about jump-starting your own healing process – which

“I can hardly describe what an amazing transformation I have had since I met you a few months ago. Since the workshop I just can’t believe how things have changed for me – I am almost in shock!

Twice in the last 2 weeks friends have commented on the positive changes in me – I can’t wait to do Gaia Level 2!” Jane

it does, often with profound results (see comments below).

We have a private Facebook group for ongoing support and our 2-weekly sharing circle means that everyone gets to practise and receive a regular healing session.

Bookings have started for the next Gaia Level 1 workshop, on Fri 27th-Sat 28th Nov in Kingston.

Visit ‘Gaia Healing with Nicola Swan’ Facebook page or Call 07753 562043. £30 deposit guarantees your place. Twoday workshop, including lunch £140.

Mention 'Darling' for 20% discount

“Thanks Nicola for a day of sharing love, light and healing... Not only did I feel myself raised during the day of the workshop but also in the days before and after.

In fact, a friend commented that I looked "glowing". I was hugely touched, because I truly felt that my heart was glowing. Thank you for the follow-up information on the chakras too ….I am really looking forward to continuing on my spiritual journey xxx” Claire

“Thank you Nicola for the amazing experience…. what a wonderful surprise and empowering feeling you have given me back since the workshop began!.. I feel privileged to be part of the Gaia circle group, I couldn't have made a better choice the day I decided to be part of it.” Marta

darlingmagazine.co.uk | nov 2015 – jan 2016

17

HRH

FOREVER HRH Forever Living Products from Carolyn Henderson

Are you looking for a more flexible way of working, that can give you the lifestyle you have always dreamed of?

40 minutes of your time is all that is needed to change your life!

Contact me to find out more.

E: foreverhrh@flp.com

LanRetro Vintage Inspired Clothes and Accessoiries

LanRetro provides a selection 1940s/50s style womens' and childrenswear Wedding/prom collection available as well as party and day wear lanretrovintage@gmail.com 07968 844556 www.cloudtown.co.uk/shoplocal/lanretro

W: www.foreverhrh.flp.com TWITTER: @ForeverHRH FACEBOOK: facebook.com/foreverhrh

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beauty promotion

SLAVE to the shave?

.......................

Get rid of unwanted hair forever with the latest pain-free laser hair removal. Tired of the daily slog of shaving your legs and body? Premier Laser and Skin Clinic uses the latest generation of FDA approved medical grade lasers, which makes shaving a thing of the past.

P

remier Laser and Skin Clinic’s innovative treatment combines two lasers to target even the finest hairs when removing unwanted body hair. The strength of the dual lasers gently yet effectively removes all hair types including hair from the face, back, chest, underarms and bikini, whereas older models would struggle to achieve this in certain areas.

The light from the laser targets the pigment in the hair while the heat destroys the hair follicle at the root. This causes the hair to permanently stop growing back. The laser not only removes unwanted follicles but also has the added bonus of tightening and rejuvenating the skin, further improving the sight of wrinkles and lesions. The innovative laser boosts the collagen in your skin to give you a tighter, smoother and youthful appearance.

The procedure is pain free thanks to the cryogenic super cooling spray, which also reduces the risk of hyper pigmentation. The treatment can be used on absolutely any skin type, including darker and tanned skin, making it available to anyone.

Convenient and safe to use with complete FDA approval, you are in good hands with the professionals at our Kingston Premier Laser and Skin Clinic. With our world-class and scientifically advanced technology, our lasers prove 90% more effective than other models.

The Kingston Premier Laser and Skin Clinic offers this treatment from as little as £39 for one session. Prices vary depending on the area being treated.

To book in, please contact Kingston Premier Laser and Skin Clinic on 0203 6006 888 or visit the salon at 4 Eden Street, KT1 1BB. www.londonpremierlaser.co.uk

darlingmagazine.co.uk | nov 2015 – jan 2016

19

Digital Dog Show 2015 WINNER!!!

Poppy Robertson

A gorgeous, cheeky 17 month old Tibetan Terrier who loves chicken and rolling around in the mud!

Watch out for our ChristmaSelfie competition!

Launches November 26th 2015 Open to all your beloved pets!

Visit us on social media for more information.

Surbiton Veterinary Hospital SurbitonVeterinaryHospital @SurbitonvetsHK

living lifecaring-promo promotion

..........................

WHY DO PEOPLE WANT TO CARE? Clare Jefferies understands why

W

hy would anyone want to care for someone who is not a member of the family?

What is it that draws people to step up and sign up to be a companion or a support to a frail or lonely person who needs help at home?

After five years of recruiting the highest level of Caregivers, New Malden based Home Instead has recently been described as ‘Ladies and Gentlemen caring for Ladies and Gentlemen’.

Owner and Managing Director, Clare Jefferies spends a huge amount of time and resource ensuring that they recruit the right people.

‘Home is a special place, where familiarity, comfort and safety are sacred and cherished.

Accepting that you have got to a stage in your life when you need help is a tough realisation to come to terms with. The thought of allowing a ‘stranger’ into that inner sanctum puts many off getting help before a crisis hits.

Home Instead recruits kind, gentle, intelligent, thoughtful, empathetic and sympathetic people who understand that it’s the little things that make a difference to someone’s life.

We recruit people from all walks of life, with different backgrounds and personalities, but what they have in common is the size of their heart. With over 100 to choose from, each and every one speaks perfect English, lives locally and many drive and are insured to take their clients out and about.

Our caring starts with a detailed understanding of who we are caring for and their needs, taking into account the rest of the family involved, and then we carefully match our Caregivers to each client.

Without training and support, Home Instead recognises that a Caregiver is as vulnerable as the cared for so we ensure that we look after our team as well as we do our clients.

Introductions ensure that there is never a stranger at the door. A trusting relationship develops much quicker if the right people are matched at the beginning and continuity is continued from there.

Our special place called home, is a warm and loving place, made all the more safe and comforting if the right person is helping from the word go.

www.homeinstead.co.uk/ wimbledonandkingston 020 8942 4137 wimbledon@homeinstead.co.uk

darlingmagazine.co.uk | nov-jan 2016 darlingmagazine.co.uk | nov 2015 – jan 2016

41 21

legal promotion

.....................

Will Power

With Chris Thurlow at Hart Brown Solicitors

A will can be more powerful than you may first imagine. With the correct planning, a will can be used as a mechanism to ensure your affairs are in order and your wishes are put into practice. Below are Hart Brown’s top 10 reasons for making a will.

1.Retaining control and flexibility Just as one size does not fit all, neither does a will. Your will is an expression of your own personal wishes tailored to suit your personal circumstances. A will gives you the power and flexibility to decide who inherits from your estate and gives you peace of mind that 22

your beneficiaries will inherit in the most effective way possible. You can also use trusts to make your wills very flexible so that any later changes in circumstances can be taken into account.

2.Who are your closest relatives?

If you do not have a will, the rules of intestacy can be undesirable. An unknown cousin could inherit rather than a friend or a favourite charity. With a will, the power is in your hands to ensure that the right beneficiaries of your choosing inherit from your estate.

nov 2015 – jan 2016 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (490290) Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

Chris Thurlow

3.Young children If you have children under the age of 18 and die without a will appointing guardians, the state will decide who should look after them.

This alone is one of the most important reasons for making a will.

4.Second marriages If you have children from an earlier marriage or relationship, you may wish to provide for your children and your new partner. By making a will you can ensure that all of your loved ones are properly provided for.

5.Unmarried couples The myth of the ‘Common Law Marriage’ is widespread and so it may come as a surprise to learn that upon your death, your surviving partner will not have the automatic right to inherit from your estate. This is one of the reasons why a will is so very important for unmarried couples.

6.Vulnerable beneficiaries

If funds are left to a vulnerable beneficiary, they may not be able to manage those funds or may be taken advantage of. They may also lose means-tested state benefits. A properly drafted trust within a will can be used to provide protection for that beneficiary.

7.Business owners

Not only can a bespoke will govern the practicalities of who inherits your business, it can also be used as a tax saving vehicle to maximise inheritance tax savings. It is also important to ensure that the governing documents in relation to your business allow it to be inherited in accordance with your wishes.

8.Saving inheritance tax for the next generation Are your next of kin or your children already financially secure? If so, you may wish to consider using a will as part of your inheritance tax planning to safeguard your estate for younger generations.

9.Charitable giving Did you know that gifts to registered charities are entirely exempt from inheritance tax? So giving money to charity could not only help to unlock a cure for a particular illness or help to improve the lives of many but also comes with the added advantage of reducing your inheritance tax liability.

10.Care fees planning Finally, a will can be a useful tool for planning if the issue of funding for care is important to you. The use of a trust within your will can have many advantages in respect of ring fencing your estate for your loved ones.

Before taking any steps mentioned in this article, you should take professional legal advice. This article is based on current regulations which may be subject to change.

If you would like further information please feel free to contact our Trusts and Estates Department on 020 8947 8171 or by email and we would be more than happy to assist you. wills@hartbrown.co.uk

darlingmagazine.co.uk | nov 2015 – jan 2016

23

personal journey

.....................

One woman's journey

FROM NORTH KOREA TO NEW MALDEN This interview was set up by EAHRNK, European Alliance for Human Rights in North Korea.

by Matilda Toseland

I

am meeting Gang Ji-yeong in New Malden where she now lives with her granddaughter.

Ji-yeong’s humble and amiable nature comes across immediately and, although we have to communicate through a translator, she seems willing to educate me on her life back in North Korea.

She describes her traumatic escape attempts from North Korea:

“I tried to leave five times, first with my daughter and then I went back to try and get my son out.

I finally left in 2000, into China.

The first time my daughter and I tried to cross the border into China, we were caught by security, dragged to a post, full body searched, interviewed and even subjected to physical violence.”

What sparked your decision to leave?

“I worked in a state owned tailor shop but became unemployed during the famine of the 90s, known as the “Arduous March”.

To support myself and my children I had to illegally catch and sell fish; conditions were very hard. After the famine a lot of people managed to escape to China - there were lots of rumours life was better on the outside. Life in North Korea is

24

Large scale statues of leaders decorate capital city Pyongyang

worse than it seems to the outside world. We had no freedom, we couldn't even travel without a government permit; the housing was the worst thing, the housing seen in the capital Pyonyang is not a true representation of what the people live in, as this housing is for party members. Average citizens live in 3m x 7m houses, with four generations often living together.

The houses share public toilets, 30 people sharing one toilet, in some places people are even living in old Soviet-built warehouses.”

Are you in contact with your family back in North Korea?

“My daughter, after escaping to China, tried to move to

nov 2015 – jan 2016 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

South Korea but was caught by the authorities and my son has been conscripted for ten years' military service, so I am not able to contact either of them. I had contact with my family while I was in China, but since I moved to the UK, I have not been able to contact them.”

What was your understanding of the outside world when living in North Korea?

“In school we were never taught about the outside, only basic geography; South Korea, Japan and the USA were referred to as the tristate of evil. This was my only understanding of the outside world - we were told we were living

personal journey

..................... in the best conditions and that South Korea was in complete poverty. In the late 80s I saw a huge student movement on TV, this was when I first realised what I had been told was not entirely true. In school we were told that we as a nation had nuclear weapons by the 90s, I know now this isn't true and realise much of what the citizens are told is propaganda to frighten people and keep them in place. I don’t think North Korea is anywhere as strong as it wishes its citizens to believe.

The current tensions between North and South Korea are part of this propaganda.”

What is education like in North Korea?

“Public eduction is available for ages 6-18, at the end there is a final exam, but this exam is nothing like Alevels or university entrance exams, your results in this do not determine whether you can go to university, your family ranking in the government does. Since the 90s when people escaped during the famines I don’t think the brainwashing education in school has been as effective, as people have been exposed to too much. I have been saying North Korea will collapse within the next 5 years for the last 17 years, since I left. It hasn't happened yet, but I am confident it will. Since Kim Jong-un’s reign of terror began, I think chances of revolution are decreasing though, people are scared.”

What is it like living in North Korea as a Woman?

“Women’s rights, both at home and in the workplace - domestic violence is common and will be ignored by the police if reported, it’s very hard for women to get good jobs, especially government jobs, women only get government jobs for propaganda purposes.

Women do mainly labour work, they make up 70% of the GDP, they play a heavy, tough role, working a lot with few rights. There are no women’s movements as it would be far too risky, even basic human rights don’t exist, so fighting for equality of the sexes is far off reality.”

Matilda Toseland, Gang Ji-yeong, Min Cheol Seo, translator and Michael Glendinning, director at European Alliance for Human Rights in North Korea

darlingmagazine.co.uk | nov 2015 – jan 2016

25

Gorgeous Original Gift Put the dress away but not the memories...

Artist and illustrator Lyndsay Russell will create a beautiful Paris-style fashion sketch of your wedding dress, shoes, bouquet and headdress – adding personal touches such as fabric swatches, the wedding date and the bride’s name.

If you're looking for a unique and thoughtful wedding gift these artworks are ideal.

They're also perfect for Christmas, Birthdays and of course Special Anniversaries.

From as little as £125.

Contact 0787 949 0487 | lyndsayrussell@blueyonder.co.uk www.weddingfashionsketches.com

.

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health promotion

......................

Make your ski trip

A SAFE ONE

W

ith the ski season quickly approaching, The New Victoria Physiotherapy Clinic would like to address the topic of pre-season conditioning to help prevent injuries.

Skiers in particular are prone to knee ligament injuries, making lower limb strengthening exercises even more important. Snowboarders are susceptible to wrist injuries and may want to consider a good quality wrist guard.

We recommend a conditioning programme starting at least 6 weeks prior to the ski trip.

Muscular endurance We have selected 4 ski specific examples of good muscular endurance exercises: 1. Lean against a wall with your knees bent 7080 degrees. Hold for 15 seconds, gradually increase to a few minutes 2. Run up and down 1 or 2 steps, gradually increasing speed and repetitions from 1 to 5 minutes 3. Bend knees to 30 degrees. Jump side to side about 1 foot. Start with 10 reps and increase to a few minutes 4. Use a resistance band attached to a door handle. Stand with your legs astride, holding either end of the band. Perform a poling action back and forth with alternate arms. Begin with 10 reps increasing to a few minutes These exercises should be added to a general conditioning programme.

Aerobic exercise, warm up & stretches Jogging, swimming, cycling or any other activity that raises the heart rate are all

Tom Stukins, physiotherapist at the New Victoria Hospital shares his expert tips

ideal to increase the efficiency of the heart to deliver oxygen throughout the body. Aerobic fitness must be increased gradually both in intensity and length of time spent exercising. It can also be improved in small adjustments to your lifestyle, like getting off the bus a stop early and walking the last 15 minutes, taking the stairs instead of the lift or walking to the shops.

Once at your ski resort, ensure that you warm up and stretch before and after skiing. It is even more important to warm up on a cold day to allow your muscles to work efficiently.

Treat existing injuries Finally, make sure you get any injuries treated before you go. For example, a niggling low back that’s not rotating correctly can lead to increased rotational forces through the knees, putting the knee at risk and vice versa.

We wish you an enjoyable ski season!

Physio appointments: Tel: 020 8949 9040 Email: physiotherapy@newvictoria.co.uk New Victoria Physiotherapy, 184 Coombe Lane West Kingston upon Thames, Surrey, KT2 7EG darlingmagazine.co.uk | nov 2015 – jan 2016

27

ON THE SCENE people out and about in and around Kingston On the scene ....................................

Fashion Show and shopping evening at Rose Theatre

L-R: Bee Smith, Bee Smith Millinery and Marie Christie, Head at Park Hill School & Nursery

L-R: Maureen Hassell, Linda Prendergast, Karen Peffer and Valerie Woolley

L-R: Sarah Austin, Anita Feron-Clark and Louise Wood from John Lewis

L-R: Zara Gallagher, founder of Otterley & Hester; Mary Hanover, founder of Azzy London tattoo with daughter Arabella showing off their designs

Bagley and Shakespere seafood & champagne restaurant opening at Riverside Edge

L-R: Catherine Miholich, John Gower and Rupert Shakespere

L-R: Kamilla Askot, Jackie Younis, Alison Bartram, Jenny Tylor and Joanna Hobson

Surbiton Festival fun

L-R: Claire Swan, Keith Bagley and Greg Miles, Riverside Edge

Shakespere at Rose Theatre; Richard III - part of The Wars of the Roses

Dustin Lance Black and Tom Daley

Cara Hudnott and Lydia Style from Cook Surbiton

L-R: The team at Bikram Yoga Surbiton; Kete Glyn, Tim Leng, Amanda Free, Serge Tampakakis and Helena Cunee

L-R: Perdo Barros, Gary Gautier, Stephanie Clark, Shannon Delwiche and Melanie Desbruslais from the Surbiton Wildlife Group

L-R: Andrew and Carina Manning from Cyclelink

The Really Helpful Club helped school reps and businesses to connect at the Lighthouse in Wimbledon

L-R: Noriko Rudd, Deborah Mearns, Hannah Pettit and Gaz Catton

L-R: Sarah Betteley, Fruits of the Fridge; Annabel Lawrence, Green Fig and Debbie Blott, Decor Cafe

L-R: Clare Collins, Elaine Halligan and Caroline Edwards, RHC Events Director

Holy Cross Preparatory School's big Macmillan Coffee Morning

L-R: Andrew Morris, Bronwen Gray, Sandra Nardi and Deborah Gregor L-R: Benny Harvey, Sabena Viles, Isabelle Le Mettre, Saira Johnston, Nicky Mapp, Kels Noudes, Lucy Hannigan, Ursula Le Huray and Judith Benedict

Business Biscotti Macmillan Coffee Morning

L-R: Hugo Bell, Sam Devereaux, Charlie Wilkinson from 2020 Sales hosted at The Digital Workhub and Michaela Sayer

L-R: Jane Thomas, Debbie Caravello, Maureen Shilston and Wendy McEvoy

Stella & Dot trunk show in New Malden

Want to be seen?

L-R: Sky Grania Young and Anu West, Darling's graphic designer

L-R: Sarah Austin, founder of the Really Helpful Club, Sandy Reid and Tessa Wilson, Stella & Dot Stylist

Live music at PizzaExpress as Kingston launched their Wednesday Playlist

L-R: Marco Bellisai, Sepideh Cole and Francesco Tarantino, the PizzaExpress team

L-R: Sarah Shade, Cathy Hubbard, Janette Bradnack, Rosalind Netherwood, Gill Grandson and Rosalyn Ellis

L-R: Emma Brogi and Laura Hayworth

The Shiraz Mirza Trust Annual Dinner at the Shiraz Mirza Community Hall

L-R: Linda Shack and Nicola Henderson from Chessington World of Adventures

L-R: Amanda Champion, Sheryl Stephens and Helen Bradley

L-R: Hilary Champion with Rosemary and John Perry

L-R: Humaira Rehan, Cllr Roy Arora, Mayor of Kingston; Shiraz Mirza and Manisha Arora, Mayoress of Kingston

L-R: Elaine Miller, London Community Foundation; James Berry MP, Kingston and Surbiton; Sorrel Arsons, Love Kingston and Sahid Mirza

Jamie's Italian in Kingston - getting ready for Christmas

Octoberfest at Surbiton Farmers Market

L-R: Alison Ewbank, Aviva Stein and Jo Harrington; market organisers

30

nov 2015 – jan 2016 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

L-R: Joe WalkerScriver, Sarah Rust, James Delpot and Sheona Crooke

Surbiton's Annual Ski Sunday

L-R: Richard Stickney and Alex Moss took part in the bathtub luge

Tennis player Penny Henkes turned 70

L-R: Arja Rekiaro, Rachel Nicol, Penny Henkes and Isabella Murray

L-R: Ann Hutchinson, Griff Williams, Robin Hutchinson, the entertaining commentator; Jack Dimes and Kirsten Andersen, Crystal Holidays who donated a ski holiday as the first prize

Helen Nicholas and Janie Harland from the Sugar Cube Supper Club getting a push-off

As the winter nights close in and festivities begin, Love Kingston would like to wish you all a very

Happy Christmas and prosperous New Year!

L-R: Griff Williams, winning the individual ski race

Christmas is a very special time of year.

Christmas is a time of giving.

Across the borough, many inspiring organisations run by dedicated individuals achieve extraordinary things with very limited resources. Their future depends on small but vital amounts of funding to reach individuals and communities in need. Love Kingston responds over time to the changing needs of local people – and we need your help. If you’d like to make a donation and hear more about our campaign please visit www. love-kingston.org.uk or contact Sorrel Parsons Sorrel@londoncf.org.uk

RELAX‌ In a bathroom designed, supplied and installed by the experts.

Design, Supply & Installation

by The Bathroom Specialists. The bathroom specialists.

0208 335 6821

49 Fleece Road, Long Ditton, KT6 5JR

www.bathroomeleven.co.uk

interiors promotion

interiors-promo .........................

It’s time to feast at the award-winning Absolute Abode in Raynes Park

W

hat a year it’s been for Absolute Abode! It’s been named by the London Evening Standard as one of the ‘Top 10 Design Cafés in London’; ‘Best Coffee and Tea House’ for 2015 at the Time & Leisure Food and Drink Awards; and the most beautiful café in the UK, taking out the 2015 Café Life Award for Café Design of the Year.

It should therefore come as no surprise that Absolute Abode is in the mood to celebrate and our Michelin-starred chef, Marc Kerrigan, is laying on a veritable feast for the Festive Season.

Bookings for Christmas parties are now being taken, with three different menu options available; a Set Christmas menu, a ‘Full Christmas Feast Buffet’ and the ‘Christmas in a nutshell - Light Buffet’.

As a taste of what one can except, the Set Christmas menu will include lovely dishes such as: Beetroot carpaccio with creamed goats’ cheese; caramelised walnuts and baby watercress; a beautiful Turkey Ballotine stuffed with chestnuts and cranberry with sautéed potatoes; Chantenay carrots, brussel sprouts, cranberry sauce with pigs in blankets and an apple and cranberry crumble with ice cream, just to mention a few of the mouth-watering seasonal offerings. One can choose 2 courses at £25 or 3 courses at £30.

The ‘Full Christmas Feast Buffet’ at £22.50 pp is suitable for larger groups and the menu will include mini burgers, salt and pepper squid in lime aioli, a beetroot cured salmon platter, a seasonal cold platter and mince pies to name but a few.

The lighter ‘Christmas in a nutshell Light Buffet’ is available at £17.50 pp.

Please call 020 8090 3211 for a full menu and to book!

And don’t forget, Absolute Abode is not just a fine dining venue, but also an architectural interior design practice and lifestyle emporium, with an incredible range of gift ideas, just perfect for a spot of Christmas shopping.

Absolute Abode | Design | Café | Emporium 76-78 Coombe Lane SW20 0AX 020 8090 3212 absoluteabode.com

Serious About Sofas?

We Make It Personal.

Meet Andrew Jones. Along with his wife Ruth, he runs Seriously Sofas of Kingston – home to some of the most beautifully designed bespoke and customised sofas, sofa-beds, corner units, chairs and accessories in the UK. In our showroom you’ll find quality products at affordable prices. And even better they can be customised to meet the exact requirements of your home or new extension. So why not pop in and discover a sofa or sofa bed to suit your personality as well as your space... a real focus on choice, quality and flexibility… and some of the most knowledgeable advice this side of the River Thames. We look forward to meeting you.

Please visit us online at

www.seriouslysofas.co.uk Crown Arcade, Union St, Kingston upon Thames, KT1 1RP Tel: 020 8549 1233 Email: info@seriouslysofas.co.uk

Images supplied by Crucial Trading

building promotion

building-promo .........................

MAKE YOUR HOME Make Your Home a Haven A HAVEN

building – promo

Paul Bryan, Darling’s new builder

W

ith interest rates still at a record ith interest rates still at a record low, and with signs of a real low, and with signs of a real recovery there recoveryon onthe thehorizon, horizon, there couldn’t be a better time to to add couldn’t be a better time value to your home.

It could be that loft or basement add value to your home. It could be that loft conversion you’ve always dreamed of, an open plan or basement conversion you’ve always dreamed of, an space, open or plan living space, or simply living simply using skylights to let using the skylights to let thein.summer sunshine in. summer sunshine

reliability and the timely completion of my projects.

The best approach with any new build is to work Take a look at the examples on my website, or give together very closely at the planning stage so we me a call to discuss your dream haven. have a shared vision of what you are looking for.

It’s this foundation at the very beginning that Haven Construction and Building Services Ltd: creates the kind of working relationship you need havenconstruction.net for the best results. havenconstruction.sw@gmail.com 177-187 Arthur Road Whatever youSW10 have in mind, my team and I can Wimbledon 8AE turn your home into a haven. With an excellent T: 78805 460639 reputation in South West London, I have a passion for meticulous planning and great craftsmanship. hadtradesmen initially seen Haven Construction All“We of my havethe a minimum of 15 years’ signs in our area and consequently requested experience, and I’m particularly proud of the a quote on our planned house extension. feedback I get from clients about the quality, the On the basis of their competitive price and reliability andtestimonials the timely completion of my projects. favourable we appointed them Take a look at the examples on my website, or give for the project. They did an excellent job and mecompleted a call to discuss your story dreamside extension, the double and rear raised patio on time and exactly to haven.

The besthad approach build is to work “We initiallywith seenany thenew Haven Construction signs in ourclosely area and consequently requested together very at the planning stage so we a quote on vision our planned extension. have a shared of whathouse you are looking for. basis of their pricethat andcreates It’sOn thisthe foundation at thecompetitive very beginning testimonials we appointed thefavourable kind of working relationship you need them for the forresults. the project. They did an excellent job and best completed the double story side extension, and rearyou raised on time and exactly to Whatever havepatio in mind, my team and I can budget. We found the team to be very efficient, turn your home into a haven. With an excellent competent, tidy and polite. From the design reputation in South West London, I have a passion budget. We found the team to be very efficient, phase through to completion – they delivered for meticulous planning and great craftsmanship. havenconstruction.org.uk competent, tidy and polite. From the design on all fronts.” AJ Frank, SW19 All of my tradesmen have a minimum of 15 years’ 07880 063 to completion – they delivered phase546 through on all fronts.” AJ Frank, SW19 experience, and I’m particularly proud of the darlingmagazine.co.uk | nov-jan 2016 37 feedback I get from clients about the quality, the darlingmagazine.co.uk | nov 2015 – jan 2016 35

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Beanstalk – helping fulfil children's potential FoV Advert-A5-Darling-160x112.5.indd 1

B

eanstalk reading sessions are not just helping children with their reading - they are fun and the volunteers enjoy them too.

Susan Watts tells us how she got involved with Beanstalk: “I first noticed mention of Beanstalk in the Evening Standard in 2013 as the charity at the centre of the ‘Get London Reading Campaign’. Earlier this year I saw a call in Darling magazine for Beanstalk volunteers in Kingston which finally prompted me to contact them. I decided to volunteer because it alarms and saddens me that so many children are reaching secondary school without the necessary literacy skills to fulfil their potential at school or in their later lives.

Having retired, I felt able to commit to becoming a volunteer with Beanstalk for the recommended two half-days

21/10/2015 10:26

a week during term time for a year. I completed an application form and, after an interview, I attended a day’s training in London before joining a local primary school as a Beanstalk volunteer in June. I currently work with four children aged 6 individually on two afternoons a week to help build their confidence and to develop their reading skills.

Working one-to-one means that each session can be geared towards the needs and interests of the individual child. Importantly each child chooses a book to read from the Beanstalk Box and, as each session lasts half an hour, we also have time to chat and play simple games such as snap. Story cubes are very popular too! I have provided each child with a book in which we record what we have done in each session – including drawings – and they can then see the progress they have made. The children are really

excited to come to their Beanstalk sessions and it is remarkable how quickly they gain confidence and catch up with their reading. The progress they make makes this a very rewarding and worthwhile thing to do. It is great fun as well!”

Beanstalk needs more volunteers in Kingston. If you are interested in applying please visit www.beanstalkcharity.org.uk or call us on 0207 730 8259 or email: sally.webb@beanstalkcharity.org.uk

WIN 2 tickets to see Garden in a mess?

A Christmas Carol Plants looking sad? of inspiration? at Run theoutRose Theatre.

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Momentum is a local charity supporting children with cancer, and their families, in SW London and Surrey. Help us to bring some festive magic to families who will be caring for their seriously ill child this Christmas. Buy our Mo the Christmas Owl! Just £8 from

shop.moment-um.org moment-um.org | Registered charity number 1106677

gardening column

.....................

Gorgeous gifts from your garden

W

Bring a large saucepan of water to the boil. The pan should be deep enough for your candle to be submerged in it. Use your tongs to dip the candle into the boiling water. Hold there for about one to two minutes and remove.

ith the deadline to Christmas 2015 looming, I’m now turning my attention to some gifts that I can make, taking the basic ingredients from my own garden.

Here are a few ideas that I have come up with.

Herb vinegars Thyme or lemon thyme, tarragon and chives work well in cider vinegar. Simply place the herbs in a screw-top bottle, top up with vinegar and let everything steep for a fortnight. Robust herbs such as thyme can be left in, but eventually they dissolve and will make the vinegar go cloudy, so strain them out.

Alternatively, you could try a hot and spicy vinegar. Wash and dry whole chillies and place them in a sterilised jar without squashing

them. Heat a pint of cider vinegar or white wine vinegar with a quarter-teaspoon of sea salt, and allow to cool slightly before pouring into the jar. Leave to steep for at least two weeks before using; the flavours will intensify over time.

Garden candles Candles make any day a special occasion, but making your own from scratch is a messy and timeconsuming endeavour. My advice is to save yourself this undoubted hassle and use shop bought candles; you can then add your own personal touch.

Place the warm candle on parchment paper. Work quickly and press your flowers and leaves onto the softened wax on the sides of the candle. When you have the design you want, re-dip the candle in the water to coat and seal the herbs on the candle. This should only take about one minute more.

Replace the candle on the parchment paper to cool. Don’t worry if the sides are a bit uneven. You want your candle to look homemade. Once it's dry, it's ready to gift wrap.

Here’s a very easy way to imprint your candles with pressed flowers and leaves from your own garden.

You’ll need some unscented candles, some pressed or fresh flowers and leaves, a large saucepan, tongs and some parchment or greaseproof paper.

Start with a large and fat candle.

You’ll want enough surface area to allow you to decorate and a fat enough candle so the wick burns down the centre and not down the sides where your leaves and flowers will be.

Valerie McBride Munro is a chartered horticulturist. She helps you develop your own garden Action Plan to ensure the best possible results for your plants. © 2015 Valerie McBride-Munro

darlingmagazine.co.uk | nov 2015 – jan 2016

39

diary

.......

What's on?

Festival of the Voice Sun 1st Nov - Sat 5th Dec Sing, speak, listen and celebrate at numerous events around Kingston For a full programme of events visit www.kingstonarts.co.uk Talk - Winter Wonderland Wed 11th Nov, 7:00pm United Reformed Church, Malden Road, New Malden John Negus, gardening journalist and Wisley trained, will be giving a talk on plants which provide a good display in winter.

Cost: Members Free - Non Members £1 For more details, call Andrew Brodie on 07973 629869. Email: abrodie@mchs.org.uk Visit www.mchs.org.uk Royal Kingston Christmas Fair Thu 12th Nov - Thu 24th Dec Looking for unique Christmas gifts this year?

Then you simply must pay a visit to The Eden Craft and Gift Fair this festive season on Kingston’s All Saints Parish Church Green (opposite John Lewis) from the 13th November.

Grounds All Saints Parish Church, Clarence St, Kingston Upon Thames, Surrey KT1 1JS

Our Annual Christmas Charity Singalong.

Christmas carols, festive rhymes, vintage tunes and the odd Christmas pop classic! Bring a jingle bell or tambourine to make some noise when we sing “Jingle Bells”. Fancy dress or Christmas jumper optional. Raising money for MeToo&Co – a local charity supporting children with additional needs and their families.

Under 6s: Little Red Riding Hood Sun 29th Nov, 10am, 11:30am and 1pm So join Little Red, Granny and Wolfie as they star in this brand new interactive show which weaves puppetry and music together to tell this classic tale.

A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Tue 1st Dec - Sun 03 Jan Promising another heart-warming family production, Ciaran McConville directs a company of actors joined by members of the Rose Youth Theatre in his own brand new adaptation of Dickens’ enchanting story.

Early booking recommended. Last year’s Rose Christmas production sold out.

Rose Theatre Annual Christmas Concert Mon 14th Dec, 7:30pm Local choirs join together to present classic Christmas music and well-known carols, featuring: Singing It Back, Euphonix, Kingston University’s Twist Choir, The Tiffinians and Tiffin Children’s Chorus.

Mr Popper's Penguins For ages 3+ Traditional Fayre Thu 14th Jan - Sun 17 Jan Sat 14th Nov, 2-4pm With songs, puppets and a family of performTolworth Girls School, Fullers Way North, ing penguins, this is a delightful musical Surbiton adaptation of Richard and Florence Atwater’s Traditional table top Fayre games like roll a popular book. penny, treasure island and guess the name of a Bear. Tea room, cakes and prize raffle.

Rose Fashion Show Chocolate, bottle, gift tombola stalls and Thu 28th Jan, 6:30-10pm Father Christmas. Cost: 25p entry Catwalk show of men's and womenswear colIn aid of 1st Tolworth Scout Group lections from top high street retailers including www.1sttolworthscouts.org.uk Accessorize, East, Hobbs, Jigsaw, John Lewis, LK Bennett, Monsoon, Oasis and Reiss.

Hoot & Howl comedy fundraising event Also a boutique village selling stunning acfor Surbiton Wildlife Group cessories from talented local designers and Sun 15th Nov, 7pm product sampling from top hair and beauty Starring: Jon Richardson, Lucy Beaumont, brands, including Aveda and Clarins.

Matt Forde and Danny Buckler Tickets from £20 including a goody bag.

Glenmore House, 6 The Crescent, Surbiton KT6 4BN Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Tickets: From sponsors Vet 4 Life at their new Sat 30th Jan, 7:30pm Brighton Rd clinic (please note: tickets are not Conductor Simon Wright, Violin Tamsin available at the venue), £10 each Age 16+ Waley-Cohen www.surbitonwildlife.co.uk The world-famous Royal Philharmonic Orchestra returns to the Rose Theatre for a Rose Theatre Kingston festive season delectable programme of classical masterpiecevents; For tickets and further information es from Mozart, Mendelssohn and Beethoven. visit www.rosetheatrekingston.org Shooting Star Chase Comedy Night Much Ado About Love: an exhibition of Wed 18th Nov, 7-10:30pm John Link’s paintings on Shakespeare’s charAt Imber Court, Ember Lane, East Molesey acters. Until Sat 21 Nov An evening of live stand-up comedy – raising money and raising smiles!

Singing Hands Christmas Charity SinSpecial guest (to be announced), Barry galong Sun 15 Nov, 11:30am-12:20pm Castanogla & Maff Brown.

Cost: £12 per ticket (over 18s only).

Email: katy.jones@shootingstarchase.org.uk Visit www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/shooting-starchase-comedy-night-tickets-1809886118 Surbiton Speakers Club: Public Speaking 1st & 3rd Thursday in the month, 7:30-9:30pm At YMCA, 49 Victoria Road, Surbiton Practice speaking in front of an audience in a safe, nurturing environment.

Receive feedback from both novice and advanced speakers.

Become a competent communicator. Practice impromptu speaking. Cost: Free Email: cw@charliewarshawski.com Visit www.meetup.com/Surbiton-Toastmasters-Meetup/events/ Community Senior Lunch Every Last Friday of the month, 12-3pm At YMCA, 49 Victoria Rd, Surbiton Includes 2 course meal, unlimited tea and coffee and entertainment. Bring friends and make friends. Cost: £8 For more details, call Anna L. Harris on 0208 339 7311 Email: AnnaLHarris@ymcalsw.org Visit www.ymcalsw.org Traditional Christmas Fair Sat 28th Nov, 2-4pm At Holy Cross Church Hall, Douglas Av. Motspur Park, New Malden Santa's Grotto, mulled wine and mince pies, craft stalls, children's games, tombolas and raffle. A family friendly afternoon for all.

Cost: 50p entrance fee In aid of Holy Cross Church Fund Rev Rachel Taylor on 02089423117, email: rachel@taylortalk.fsnet.co.uk The Victoria Foundation Winter Ball Fri 4th Dec, 7:00pm At the President’s Suite, Spirit of Rugby, Twickenham Stadium Tickets: £110, proceeds will help transform lives through providing medical equipment and support those in need. email: l.votier@thevictoriafoundation.org.uk www.thevictoriafoundation.org.uk Thames Concerts Series 2015/16 Concert III - Juice Vocal Ensemble. Sat 5th Dec, 7:30pm (pre-concert talk 6:45pm) St Andrew's Church, Maple Road, Surbiton Juice Vocal Ensemble; Award-winning experimental vocal trio with their unique takes on the festive season.

Cost: £15 on the door (10% if booked in advance via www.ticketweb.co.uk). Under16s and full-time students get in for free.

Visit www.thamesconcerts.com Talk - A Head Gardener's Year Wed 9th Dec, 7:00pm At United Reformed Church, Malden Road, New Malden Mark Saunders is a professional gardener

with over 30 years' experience.

Currently Head Gardener at Fittleworth House in West Sussex and presenter of Gardener's Question Time.

Cost: Members Free - Non Members £1 Email: abrodie@mchs.org.uk, www.mchs.org.uk Visit Santa and raise money for local children’s charity Momentum. Sun 6th Dec, 2-6pm Following the success of last year’s Santa’s Grotto Momentum children’s charity will once again turn The Pottery restaurant in 20 Park Road, KT2 6BE, into a beautiful winter wonderland this December.

Entry £8.50 per child includes a wrapped gift and a Christmas cupcake. www.moment-um.org , 020 8974 5931.

London’s biggest Santa Fun Run raising money for Momentum Children’s Charity. Sun 6th Dec, 11am Victoria Park, London. Registration fee £22, all Santas receive a free Santa costume.

Runs are 5k or 10k and there is also a free children’s mini Santa run. www.moment-um.org

WORLD CLASS WINNERS Bridge with Paul Mendelson

Congratulations to both the England Open and Ladies’ teams which reached the semi-finals of the World Championships this autumn. The Open team lost their semi-final to the eventual winners by almost the smallest margin possible.

North S K732 H 864 D AKJ6 C 85

♠ West S 10984 H J5 D 84 C KJ963

12th - 15th November Unique linen home décor soft furnishings from Europe!

www.truelinen.co.uk

Missing Your darling Magazine?

COLLECT COPIES AT OUR 'HOTSPOTS' Please call first to check stocks The Swallow Bakery, Rose Theatre, 24-26 High Street, Kingston, Tel: 020 8546 6983 Fratelli Delicatessen, 55-57 Park Road, Kingston, Tel: 020 8549 8021 U.R.Beautiful, 1st Floor, Boots, 42 Union Street, Kingston, Tel: 020 8247 0386 Roz ana, 4-8 Kingston Hill, Kingston, Tel: 020 8546 6388 The French Tarte, 83 Maple Road, Surbiton, Tel: 020 8399 1123 Pickled Pantry, St.Marks Hill, Surbiton, Tel: 020 8399 4694 The Glasshouse, 14 Coombe Road, New Malden, Tel: 020 8942 4650 Warren House, Warren Road, Coombe, Tel: 020 8547 1777 The Place, 58 High Street, New Malden, Tel: 0208 241 6591

Dealer South N E NB 1S NB 3H NB

♥

South S A H AKQ3 D 10972 C Q1074

♦ Grounds All Saints Parish Church, Clarence Street, Kingston Upon Thames, Surrey, KT1 1JS

bridge

........

Love All S 1H 1NT 3NT

East S QJ65 H 10972 D Q53 C A2

♣

W NB NB

In defence, it is the little cards which mean so much. Here, West led 6♣ against South’s 3NT contract, East won with A♣ and returned 2♣.

South put in 10♣, West winning with her J♣.

Should she now cash K♣, or switch to another suit?

East’s 2♣ is the revealing card. If East had started with three clubs, she would win with A♣ and then lead back her higher of two remaining clubs. The fact that she returned 2♣ meant that this was her last, and that marks South with four clubs. If West plays K♣, she sets up Q♣ for South – and that is the declarer’s ninth trick. If West switches to something safe like 10♠, providing that East hangs on to all four of her hearts (South did bid them), then declarer has no way to make a ninth trick and she fails.

Success and failure in defence relied on West watching East’s 2♣ very carefully indeed and not breaking a cardinal rule: never play a high card if you set up the next one for your opponent. aceoftrumps.com ‘Night of the Star’ Auction with Paul Mendelson Sunday, 29th November 2015, Richmond Bridge Club.

Door open 12:45, Play starts 1:30 Tickets £15 Call Terry for details: 07973 212 315

darlingmagazine.co.uk | nov 2015 – jan 2016

41

point of view

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Pine for a

F

stylish tree?

ive hours of attic searching, box heaving, tree humping, bauble draping and deep cursing later, the fairy lights are finally switched on.

“It looks a bit …gaudy” comments my 18 year old daughter. “Is that just because the lights are coloured, or because they twinkle?” I ask. “Both” she replies, with the world weary sophistication of a student back from her first term at Uni. It has to be said, the ‘Variety of Seasonal Berries with Plastic Holly Leaves’ looked a lot better online and unlit.

And do berries actually twinkle? What was I thinking when I pressed ‘Please Confirm’?…My insanity?

I step back to consider, and squeal in horror. My bare foot has stepped on the body of a soggy, disemboweled white mouse. I spot our cat - fake cotton wool snow dangling from his smirking mouth, and survey the results of his frenzied massacre throughout the house. As a kitten he hid up the chimney and we nicknamed him ‘Mistletoe’.

Right now, I want to string him up.

Meanwhile, all tinselled and tacky, our tree sparkles like the precocious love child of Dolly Parton and Elvis.

It looks nothing like the stylish confections you see in the windows of Harvey Nicks, Harrods or, indeed, the

majority of houses in Kingston. Problem is, I can’t bear to throw anything Christmassy away, or leave a single decoration in the box. It seems so heartless. All year waiting for their chance to shine…

So as a result, the branches also have seriously weird things hanging off them that my kid made when she was a toddler - creations once considered adorable. A pink sock with two felt eyes (and only one felt eyebrow… ), a squashed paper mache snowman (minus his nose and a twig arm). I think you get the (snow) drift.

And then there’s the tree itself. I don’t like the dissonance of celebrating around a dying tree, the poor thing shedding its pines like tears. So the same ol’ fake fir from B&Q is dredged out of the attic every year. Listen, it was romantic a zillion years ago as the first joint purchase with my husband. So, again… how can one possibly throw it out?

According to John Lewis, the amount spent on decorations has been steadily growing. This year the trends for Christmas include ‘Golden trees, bronze frosted icicles, and pine cone animals.’

I’m just sitting tight, waiting for the year it’s “Clashing balls, surreal thingies, and ‘seventies plastic tat”.

Take your pick!

42

nov 2015 – jan 2016 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

AT WA R R E N H O U S E Book your Christmas Celebration at Warren House and ensure that all things will be merry and bright

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