Darling Magazine Kingston, Surbiton & Teddington Winter 2016 | 2017

WINTER 2016 | 2017  FREE

inspiring women Dr Mariette Jansen stress coach extraordinaire!

Festive season's

Find your CURVES in a women's gym

RESTAURANT GUIDE Shop local for

GREAT CHRISTMAS GIFTS A handy pull-out diary for the festive season 30 years of

Should you know a criminal defence solicitor?

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

T

S O M E H T S ’ T I

e m i T l u f Wonder OF THE YEAR FESTIVE CELEBRATIONS IN KINGSTON UPON THAMES

CHOOSE FROM ANY OF OUR TERRIFIC PARTY NIGHTS AND LUNCHES! EARLY BIRD BOOKING OFFER: BOOK YOUR PARTY NIGHT BEFORE THE 30TH NOVEMBER AND 1 IN 10 GUESTS GO FREE

THE SOPWITH CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHTS Arrival drink, 3 course festive meal & after dinner entertainment November: 25th and 26th £49.95 per person December: 8th and 15th £49.95 per person December: 2nd, 3rd, 9th, 10th, 16th & 17th £55.00 per person

NEW YEAR’S EVE See in the New Year in style in our fabulous Sopwith Suite £99.00 per person- includes Champagne on arrival, 4-course meal

HAWKERS CHRISTMAS AFTERNOON TEA Available throughout December between 2pm – 5pm every day £24.95pp or £29.95pp with glass of fizz

HAWKERS CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH 25th December: Two sittings are available at 12:30 and 15:30 £80 per adult £40 per child under 12yrs Children under 3 years eat free!

HAWKERS CHRISTMAS SUNDAY LUNCHES 3-course lunch December: 4th, 11th, 18th £32.00 per adult £16.95 per child under 12yrs Children under 3 years eat free

HAWKERS BAR AND BRASSERIE NEW YEAR’S EVE Enjoy a 5 course meal and a Festive glass of fizz to bring in 2017 in our amazing Hawkers Bar £99.00 per person Terms and conditions apply please speak to the hotel team for full details.

T: 0203 096 0099

E: Christmas@hiltondoubletreekingston.com

W: londonkingstonuponthames.doubletreebyhilton.com | hawkerskingston.com

Dear Darling reader,

Cover: Dr Mariette Jansen Photography by Cythare Cooper www.cythare.com Makeup by Rachel Barclay

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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, Valerie McBride-Munro Photography Cythare Cooper www.cythare.com

editor’s letter ................

November has crept on me almost unnoticed with the lovely autumn weather we’ve had - I haven’t even got my wellies muddy yet! This is a good time to start looking forward to the festive season, so why not start now and give yourself plenty of time to do your Christmas shopping with leisurely pace and plan your festive celebrations without the last minute rush? We’ve given you a great selection of gift ideas from local businesses and put together a guide to fantastic restaurants to get you started. But in case you are like me, leaving it until the last minute, and are already stressing about it, don’t panic, as our Inspiring Woman, Dr Mariette Jansen, aka Dr De-stress, shares her wisdom in managing stress and staying positive.

Staying on the ‘take control of your life and feel so much better and healthier for it’ theme, see if a women-only gym, Curves, can inspire you. I did a ten-day whole body cleanse to help me on the way and our Point of View columnist, Lyndsay Russell, went to see naturopath Kayte Ashton, in order to kick her sugar addiction.

Absolute Abode takes inspiration from the Scandinavians’ way of making your home cosy this winter and Valerie McBride-Munro brings it even closer to home, to the delights of your winter garden. But we are not wrapping up the year just yet; it’s business as usual from Hart Brown, who advise on finding new premises for your business.

Stay well this winter and have a jolly festive season!

Design Anu West info@apila.co.uk

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

Printer Aquatint scott@aquatint.co.uk

CONTENTS

Distribution Three Colours Ltd info@3colours.co.uk Darling Wimbledon Karine Torr: 07930 396356 Darling North Surrey Philippa Hennessy: 07772 633339 Darling Ascot and Sunningdale Martine Curzon: 07788 444184

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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.

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5 6 6 13 15 16 19 21 23 24 26 29 30 31 37 39 42 43 45 46

Editor's letter Don't stress, there is a doctor in the house Where to feast this festive season Fundraising for Lymphoma Research at Kingston Riverside Club Savvy women get Curves The joy of giving is the spirit of Christmas Do you need to know a criminal defence solicitor?

Time to flush out those toxins!

Schools in the news What's on – pull-out diary Room to grow Ask Grania – agony aunt column Editor's picks for great reads Transforming autism Dreamflight – 30 years of changing lives Get cosy this winter Cook's Corner – festive treats Christmas Crackers by Valerie McBride-Munro Paul Mendelson's bridge column Lyndsay Russell's Point of View

.............................................................. darlingmagazine.co.uk WINTER 2016 | 2017

5

inspiring woman

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

Don’t stress there's a doctor in the house

Darling editor chats to Dr De-stress Mariette Jansen about living stress-free

M

ariette greeted me in her Kingston offices on Eden Street.

There is something uplifting and reassuring about her manner - maybe it’s her friendly Dutch accent that she hasn’t let go despite a long professional career here, ranging from teaching and management consultancy to becoming a psychotherapist, writer and a life coach. I feel immediately in safe hands, maybe it’s the Dr in her title – she has a PhD in Philosophy – or the fact that she is referred to as the best stress coach around by her clients.

Your professional name, Dr De-stress, speaks volumes.

How did you decide to choose stress management as your speciality area in coaching?

“Stress is a word that represents unhappiness and feeling out of control. I help people to get control of their lives and experience greater happiness.

Stress in simple terms means a position of friction and a tension between where you are and where you want to be. It has a very strong emotional component, which isn’t often 6

recognised or realised. Until we talk. One of my main slogans is ‘there’s more to this than meets the eye’. And time and again, the cause of unhappiness is the distance between head and heart, which when not aligned, gives us different messages making us feel stressed, unhappy and out of control.”

Life coaching is becoming mainstream. Can we all benefit from seeing a coach?

WINTER 2016 | 2017 darlingmagazine.co.uk

“We are not born with a manual on how to live. We are also not trained on how to live a happy life. The focus of education is academic, our upbringing is often concerned with behaviour and morals, and what is missing is how to discover and honour who you really are, what makes your heart sing and how to live a life of fulfilment.

It’s difficult to be objective about ourselves and our lives; a coach can help us to step away from

inspiring woman ..................... what is familiar and find new angles and perspectives. It is important though to find the right coach! One of the easiest ways to move away from our habitual approach to life is to ask questions, endless questions. This helps to identify the underlying areas. I drive my clients bananas with always finding the next question. But I believe that is where I add value. One of the other tools I use is meditation.

This is one of the most important life skills we should learn when growing up.”

You also have a very inspiring and life-changing story to tell with your impressive weight loss some years ago, and you have managed to keep the weight off. What advice would you give to those battling with their weight?

“I suffered for 22 years from bulimia nervosa, the eating disorder where fasting, binging, discarding of food through being sick or using laxatives is the sequence of actions. I was totally preoccupied with calorie planning and I was continuously anxious because I knew I was going to lose control at some stage. I also suffered from low self-esteem and deep unhappiness.

My head and heart were talking a different language and I was totally disconnected from my body. Luckily I have left my eating disorder and my extra weight behind. And my clients now benefit from my experience.

I am working with nutrition coach Leonie Wright on this

area. My website has our reports and details about my books on this.”

What are your interests and passions in life?

“I grew up in a very suffocating and dysfunctional family, being scared to do something wrong and looking to please others, especially my mother. In my midthirties I started to discover who I was, learned to appreciate myself and make choices that made me happy. It’s now my passion to share my knowledge and experiences with others, helping them create their happiness. I am also passionate about learning – life is so interesting and there is so much to discover.

I love writing as that’s sharing and teaching. I am currently writing the second edition of my book on meditation, which will be published in December and also a new book on stress. And I send out a weekly email with tips and food for thought. I also love being in the outdoors, getting my body in a sweat through exercise, cooking and eating, meditating and just embracing each day as it comes.”

Photography by Cythare Cooper

You live in Weybridge but your office is in Kingston.

Is Kingston a particularly good location for a life coach?

“I love my office here and it is good to be away from home.

Anywhere where people live is a good location. But Kingston is a hub for SW London and parts of Surrey, so the catchment area is fairly sizeable.”

More info at: drdestress.co.uk Makeup by Rachel Barclay

darlingmagazine.co.uk WINTER 2016 | 2017

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Where to feast this Festive Season... ...we've got a favourite for everyone!

Al Forno

Authentic Italian Pizzeria and Restaurant Al Forno is an Italian owned, authentic Italian restaurant, serving genuine fresh Italian cuisine and pizza on the river. We have a lovely conservatory and an outside heated area and were voted 'Best Pizza in Kingston’ by Wine and Dine 2016. We are now taking bookings for Christmas parties, both lunch and dinner, and our New Year’s Eve Party with Fireworks over the river is not to be missed!

1-2-3a High St, Kingston upon Thames KT1 1LY Christmas party - 2 courses £22.95 or 3 courses £24.95 Christmas Day lunch - £45 per person New Year’s Party - £55 per person

t: 020 8439 7555 w: alfornokingston.co.uk

Live music and DJs, catering for private custom parties.

Hawkers Bar and Brasserie

A sophisticated city style bar and brasserie on your doorstep Serving fresh, quality dishes in a contemporary setting, Hawkers in DoubleTree by Hilton is the perfect place to unwind after work.

Our highly trained cocktail makers are on hand to mix all your favourites, and help create the right atmosphere for your night.

Combining the spirit of your favourite city bars with the convenience of our location, you’ve just found your new place.

Christmas at Hawkers Bar and Brasserie is going to be a truly special affair. We have all sorts of ways to make the most of Christmas and New Year, from festive dinners and afternoon teas to lunches and bottomless brunches. t: 0203 096 0099 w: hawkerskingston.com

Book your Hawkers Festive Package before 30th November & 1 in 10 guests GO FREE (Ts & Cs apply)

Jack's Kitchen

Truly fine dining in stylish surroundings Jack’s Kitchen at the Holiday Inn London - Kingston South provides a great atmosphere, delicious festive food, speciality drinks and party novelties in a stylish setting to get you into the Christmas spirit!

Serving Christmas lunches and dinners from 1st to 24th December, at £28.00 per person.

If you’re looking for a bit of decadence, sample the delights of our Festive Afternoon Tea with a glass of bubbly or mulled wine.

Served daily from 1pm to 5pm between 25th November to 1st January (except 25th and 31st Dec), at £20.00 per person. t: 020 8786 6505 w: hikingston.co.uk

Jin Jin

At Jin Jin we serve a large selection of specialities from Canton as well as more spicy Si-chuan dishes. Our ground floor is perfect for a quick lunch or a 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 this winter, and we have seasonal dishes for you to enjoy at Christmas time.

Chinese Restaurant and Bar

With pre-booking in December, customers will receive a free side dish and a free dessert.

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

La Familia

Spanish Flavours in Hampton Hill Since opening its doors in 2009, La Familia Hampton has established itself as one of Hampton’s most popular restaurants with visitors & locals alike; being within easy reach of the famous Hampton Court Palace & Twickenham Stadium. La Familia is a Spanish restaurant that specialises in tapas, a wide selection of fish and steaks, and has much more to offer.

Christmas with a Spanish flavour is a truly special time at La Familia who can cater for all your needs, from a small family gathering or a large work party. Christmas Party Menu: 3 course lunch £18.95 and dinner £21.95 Sunday to Thursday.

Stuck on what to get loved ones for Christmas, why not treat them to a dinner? Gift vouchers available to suit any budget. Darling readers receive 20% off their à la carte bill during January and February (booking required). Please mention Darling.

La Fiamma

99 High St, Hampton Hill, Middlesex TW12 1NH t: 0208 941 7309 w: lafamiliarestaurant.co.uk

Great Italian food prepared with pride We believe that home-made is best. We make all our own pizza dough and fresh pasta here in our own kitchen. This is the heart of real Italian cooking; only the finest ingredients, freshly prepared and cooked with a real love of food and respect for our diners. We are truly blessed with one of the finest restaurant locations in London and the South-East. Our back windows face directly onto the historic royal deer park once owned by Henry VIII – Bushy Park. Watch wild deer roam freely among the magnificent trees while you dine.

t: 020 8943 2050 w: lafiamma.co.uk

Our Christmas Lunch and Evening menus will run from 1 December until 24 December: Christmas Eve 3 courses £24.95, Christmas Day lunch 3 courses £39.95, New Year’s Eve dinner 3 courses £42 Old Park House, Hampton Court Road, East Molesey KT8 9BY

Riverside, Kingston

Great restaurants, great location The six restaurants on the Riverside, overlooking the River Thames and Kingston Bridge, offer diverse cuisine to suit every palate. Choose from the best of British, French brasserie, a taste of Thai, lovely Lebanese, a flavour of Argentina and homecooked American style food – there’s something for everyone.

If you are looking to book your Christmas celebrations with family, friends or office colleagues, shopping in Kingston or visiting the theatre, just visit www.riversidekingston.co.uk and see all the options available and book a table.

Riverside Restaurants: Bill’s, Busaba Eathai, CAU, Comptoir Libanais, Côte Brasserie and Jackson & Rye. Riverside Walk, Kingston, KT1 1QN

Fratelli’s – For the Authentic Italian Taste

Fratelli’s – For the Authentic Italian Taste

57 Park Road, Kingston upon Thames, KT2 6DB www.fratellidelicatessen.com 020 8549 8021

57 Park Road, Kingston upon Thames, KT2 6DB www.fratellidelicatessen.com 020 8549 8021

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

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

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.

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.

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

We offer the best selection of finest Italian wines in Kingston!

Special offer until end of January - 10% off for a case of six bottles of wine (includes mixed cases).

Our delicious panettones in for Christmas.

Our delicious PANETTONES are in for Christmas! Perfect gifts for friends & family or for youare to indulge over breakfast.

Our delicious panettones are in for Christmas.

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

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

Roz Ana

Fine Regional Indian Cuisine

t: 0208 546 6388 w: roz-ana.com

Roz Ana on Kingston Hill is like having the West End at your doorstep. Delicately spiced dishes presented beautifully in smart, casual but buzzy environment. Some of the best cocktails in the area and fine wines compliment the food, with service that will leave you coming back again and again. A well earned reputation as a place to celebrate, Roz Ana is the perfect spot for your party. Tailored menus with flexible, segregated areas for dining and dancing make it a must-try spot.

4-8 Kingston Hill, Kingston, KT2 7NH

Saffron Summer

Fine dining experience with Haute Indian Cuisine now available in your neighbourhood Our chef, formerly at the famous Cinnamon Club, is set to surprise you with exotic game dishes like the Wild Boar Vindaloo, Pheasant and Venison alongside street food and authentic traditional fare.

Presently sitting at number 1 in Chessington and among the top 3 Indian restaurants in Surrey on Tripadvisor with its 5 star rating.

Bookings for Christmas parties, Christmas Day lunch and New Year’s Eve dinner are now open. Please visit our website for different menus and details. Ample parking nearby.

4 Ace Parade, Hook Road, Chessington, KT9 1DR

t: 0208 391 4477 w: saffronsummer.co.uk

Stein's

Bavarian Christmas 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

t: 020 8546 2411 w: stein-s.com/kingston

The Willow

Health Restaurant and Bar The Willow's ethos is simple – the dinner plate is the foundation to better health.

Our effortlessly healthy menu caters for healthy living – including free-from, Paleo and Vegan dishes – never compromising on taste.

Let us tempt you with our amazing range of natural wines, juices & smoothies or infused spirits. Or if you just fancy a cup of the best direct trade coffee or tea in the neighbourhood, pop in!

You don't need to compromise on health to celebrate in style so book your Christmas meal or party now! 2-course £25, 3-course £29. See yourwillow.co.uk for our full festive menu.

16 The Triangle, Kingston, KT1 3RT

t: 020 3034 2424 w: yourwillow.co.uk e: info@yourwillow.co.uk

“ The Friendly Tennis Club” We have gained a reputation as the friendly club in the area. Join us and you’ll find out why!

145-147 Richmond Road, Kingston-upon-Thames, Surrey KT2 5BZ

O

pened in 2003, Deea has become a Kingston landmark, based on the consistently high quality cuisine and the tuning of traditional Bangladeshi fare to discerning, modern tastes.

Deea is renowned for its first class customer service, making every visit feel like a special occasion.

We also offer a fast, efficient take-away service, and cater for private occasions, large or small.

Professional coaching • Social tennis • All ages and levels • Social events info@kingstonriversideclub.org • Covered, floodlit courts for all-weather, all-day play • Private car park for members • Modern clubhouse with changing facilities • Licensed bar for www.kingstonriversideclub.org members and guests • Venue hire • Kids’ holiday camps • Beautiful riverside location in central Kingston • Natural clay courts • Macadam hard courts Lower Ham Road, Kingston, Surrey, info@kingstonriversideclub.org • www.kingstonriversideclub.org KT2 5AJ, tel: 020Surrey, 8546 5935 Lower Ham Road, Kingston, KT2 5AJ • 020 8546 5935 KRC-Ad-Feb2016.indd 1

t:0208 974 5388 | e:info@deea.co.uk | w:deea.co.uk 10/02/2016 08:40

Outstanding Patient Care Time and again our patients rate us as one of the best private hospitals* • Exceptional nursing care • 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 *Over 99% of patients rated our overall quality of care as Excellent or Very Good.

Patient Satisfaction Survey Jan-Jul 2016

Allison Hill

Retired Primary School Teacher

New Victoria Hospital 184 Coombe Lane West Kingston upon Thames Surrey KT2 7EG T. +44 (0) 20 8949 9000 E. enquiries@newvictoria.co.uk W. www.newvictoria.co.uk

charity

.........

Fundraising for

Lymphoma Research

at Kingston Riverside Club

by Suzanne Wilkinson

disease. The owners of the club embraced the idea, making the courts and clubhouse available and donating the fees to take part in the tournaments to the charity. Tennis coaches, including the club’s Director of Coaching, gave their time to organise and run the matches. Ladies doubles were played on Thursday 6 October and Participants in the ladies' doubles tournament mixed doubles the Sunday following, when other members of ingston Riverside Club the club, friends and families came hosted two end of sumalong to cheer on the players and mer tennis tournaments contribute to raising well in excess of in October in aid of Lymphoma Research Trust, to help find a cure £2,000 across the two days. Lynne's JustGiving page is at justgiving. for the fifth most common cancer com/fundraising/Lynnediagnosed in the UK (the third Ahearne3 – she would appreciate most common in children). any contribution to her fundraising.

Lynne Ahearne, one of the club’s Kingston-based company, Octagon longest serving members, has Limited, was a generous supporter recently undergone treatment for Lymphoma. It was her suggestion to on Sunday, contributing to the catering cost to ensure all funds raised raise money for the cause with the events, as she believes more research at the events went to the charity.

A mouthwatering buffet lunch for is desperately needed to beat the

K

Favourite local restaurant, Deea, provided a veritable feast

50 people was provided by Deea, a renowned Kingston Bangladeshi restaurant, at which a variety of delicious dishes to suit all tastes were devoured by hungry players and supporters.

Kingston Riverside Club CIC, which is a privately owned tennis club, is located beside the Thames in Canbury Gardens.

The club operates an inclusive policy – its vision is to make tennis affordable and accessible to all.

Lymphoma occurs when white blood cells that help to fight infection become out of control. Lymphoma Research Trust funds research into the treatment of Lymphoma. It makes grants to researchers at the Lymohoma Trials Office based at University College London and to doctors at other universities and hospitals in the UK. To help Lymphoma Research, visit: lymphoma-research-trust. org.uk For more information on Lymphoma, go to Lymphoma Association's website: lymphomas.org.uk

Tennis club members Kai Pflughaupt and Lynne Ahearne with the club's owners, Susan Bailey and Ghadeer Taktak

darlingmagazine.co.uk WINTER 2016 | 2017

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Upcoming public information events at Spire St Anthony’s Hospital Tuesday 8 November, 7pm Cosmetic Open Evening Miss Sonja Cerovac, Consultant Plastic Surgeon “Rejuvenation of breasts and tummy – perception vs reality”

Tuesday 22 November, 7pm Varicose Vein Open Evening Professor Ian Loftus, Consultant Vascular Surgeon “Veins – the good the bad and the ugly”

Wednesday 23 November, 7pm IBS Public Information Evening Dr Neil Galletly, Consultant Gastroenterologist “It’s just IBS – or is it?

To book your place, or to hear more about our events please call us on 0208 335 4646 or email us at: stanthonysevents@spirehealthcare.com

fitness promotion .......................

Savvy women get

CURVES

We're here to help you create a firmer, slimmer body

Y

ou enter the building and, within a matter of seconds, you’re greeted by a certified Curves Coach with an interest in helping you create a firmer, slimmer body and taking years off your appearance…. all within a 30-minute timeframe and all before the Christmas holidays. A pipe dream? Believe it or not, this type of service does exist and is readily available at Curves Hampton/ Teddington.

"I had never been to a gym or a formal exercise class before,” says retired 66-year old June from Hampton. “I was told by my doctor to improve my diet and exercise to lower my blood pressure.

I now have a personal coach that takes interest in me, my workout is easy and in half-an-hour, I’m out and on to my other activities.”

Linda from Kingston is a young Mum in her 30s. “I work part-time and have a lot of responsibilities.

Now that the children have started school, I finally have a little free time for myself - just enough to dash in and do my 30-minute circuit after the school run. I love the boxing class. The simple workout has given me renewed energy and I feel years younger and my husband has noticed too.”

“49 years old and feeling totally out of shape. The last thing I wanted was to buy a dress for my 50th birthday” exclaims Mary from Teddington. “Now that I’ve been working with the friendly coaching team at Curves, I may just go out and buy a whole new wardrobe!”

Justine, the club’s owner, admits, “Women have chaotic schedules. We try to balance work and family

Justine Hales

without time to schedule a typical workout. My team and I help others make the most of their bodies, staying supple and healthy. It’s great to see more women taking an active role in their overall fitness.”

Curves provide fun 30-minute workouts with fitness and nutrition options for modern women.

An exclusive package promotion, for a limited time, offers Darling readers 5 personal coaching sessions with demonstrations and exercises as you go through the programme together.

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

Curves 77-81 Station Road, Hampton, TW12 2BJ 0203 068 0077 curveshamptonteddington.co.uk

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A little inspiration to help you...

Original, handmade gifts and cards We design and make personalised paper cut wall art and now also design and make gold foil prints, all from our studio in S.W. London.

Garden in a mess?

Plants looking sad?

Run out of inspiration?

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Garden MoT Call

me!

An Auntie Planty gift voucher for a Garden MoT is a unique andPlan Your own Action perfect gift for a friend or loved you solve these onewill who help loves her garden.

problems effortlessly auntieplanty.co.uk

to make your garden flourish!

antdesigngifts.co.uk

Limited edition clutch bags handmade in Isleworth using leather and vintage silk kimonos.

Prices from £69 07947 046057 daraford.com

Auntie Planty expert garden advice Gift vouchers available www.auntieplanty.co.uk 020 8892 9243 • 07887 716 777 Happy New Nails

This festive season, avoid the stress with Happy New Nails & Arbonne organic beauty and nail products. Let nature help you to be your most beautiful!

Happy New Nails - the original stronger and longer lasting manicure for healthy nails.

Beauty that comes to your home. Gift vouchers available Happy New Nails | Letizia - 07765 28120 happynewnails@gmail.com

Natural Facelift Massage Uplifts and refreshes your face to look years younger!

A truly unique & perfect gift for any woman.

For treatments and gift vouchers: Mary Dalgleish 0208 874 9047 head2toemassage.co.uk

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WINTER 2016 | 2017 darlingmagazine.co.uk

... choose the perfect Christmas gift Christmas cards, wrapping paper and gifts Order from Momentum and help the Kingstonbased children's charity to spread some festive magic to local children who have cancer or lifelimiting conditions.

Visit the Christmas shop: moment-um.org

6 sessions for ÂŁ75 Give a feel-good gift this Christmas. fit8 goes beyond traditional physiotherapy, gym and personal training FUNCTIONAL, INTELLIGENT THERAPY Wimbledon Village, Coombe, Fulham 0333 800 8008 opt 1 fit8.co.uk

Rocking horses Blowouts, Nails & Prosecco Bar Treat someone special to a luxury nail treatment or a fabulous blowout over a glass of Prosecco in a cosy, lounge bar atmosphere.

GIFT CARDS from HOUSE CATS LONDON 32 High Street, Teddington, TW11 8EW, 020 8973 3707 info@housecats.co.uk housecats.co.uk

Handmade in solid wood, carved and detailed to your design from traditional to contemporary.

Your unique horse will be created in a workshop on the Isle of Wight.

Call Alan on: 07516 117790 wightrockinghorses.co.uk

Exclusive Spa Treat Give an exclusive treat at The Lensbury Spa to your loved one for Christmas!

Call or email to buy Spa Treatment Vouchers: 0208 614 6411 spa.reception@lensbury.com, lensbury.com

darlingmagazine.co.uk WINTER 2016 | 2017

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MOVING HOUSE?

Making a house your home ...and for whatever life brings The Riverside Centre, 40 High Street, Kingston upon Thames KT1 1HL Tel: 020 8974 7490 www.roselegal.co.uk

legal matters

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

Do you need to know a

CRIMINAL DEFENCE solicitor?

by Ann Gibbon

is now “out and about with persons unknown.”

Then you get the call. Your child has come to the attention of the police. They might not have done anything wrong. They might be with others who might not have done anything wrong.

They might have done something wrong or other people in the group might have done something wrong which your child might or might not know about.

W

hen might you need a Criminal Defence Solicitor? The simple answer is that you never know!

If you rent out a property or run a business, there are a seemingly ever-increasing number of legal regulations that now carry criminal sanctions.

code for emergency sat nav pick up. They “dunno” who else is going, what time they are coming home or whether there will be any adults there! You either establish sufficient information to allow them to go or you refuse to let them go at all and domestic stress levels rise to … nuclear….

And if you have teenagers, you might unexpectedly have to face the law.

However, life will intervene and your carefully laid boundaries for an 11pm pick up from the party collapse when your child declares the party boring, or that all participants are thrown out by the supervising parent, or the invitation you were assured that they had, was declined at the door. Unbeknownst to you, your child

All of a sudden year 10 arrives and your precious lovely child announces that he or she is leaving their bedroom and going to a party. You struggle to find out: who is having the party, the full address and post-

Nevertheless, the Police will want to speak to them. You cannot have an informal chat with the Police, so it will be an interview.

What your child does or does not say in interview will determine the outcome. You and your child have the right to have a free independent solicitor who can give you advice there and then.

The sooner a criminal defence solicitor is involved, the sooner your matter is likely to be resolved.

It might not be a good thing to have your solicitor's number on speed dial but it won’t hurt to know that you have a number should you need to call.

Ann Gibbon & Co 0794 029 2624

darlingmagazine.co.uk WINTER 2016 | 2017

19

Would you like a part time job?

Has the early morning school run stopped since your ‘little one’ has headed off to University?

Is the house feeling like an empty nest?

Would you like to be busy again?

Would you like to go back into the work place?

Would you like a a job that will really make a difference to someone’s life?

If you like the idea of having a good natter, sharing memories, making a cuppa and doing all you can to help someone who has reached that stage in their life when an extra pair of hands are needed, then please get in touch.

We believe that being a Caregiver is a really special job.

Call now on 020 8942 4137 or email mike.jefferies@homeinstead.co.uk www.homeinstead.co.uk/wimbledonandkingston

Home Instead Senior Care has been rated Outstanding by the Care Quality Commission

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?

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

Patient Care Meetings are once a month between 12pm and 2pm. Come and visit one of our groups: Time and again our patients rate us as one of the–best private hospitals* KINGSTON Brook Kingston Lodge Hotel,

Hampton Road, East Molesey, KT8 9BY 3rd Tuesday each month Kingston Hill, Kingston, • 94Exceptional nursing careKT2 7NP Tuesday eachConsultants month Allison Hill • 1st Highly skilled TEDDINGTON – The Clockhouse, Retired Primary School Teacher • New state of the art operating theatres 69 High Street, Teddington, TW11 8HA RICHMOND – Richmond Gate Hotel, • Richmond New cardiac facilityTW10 6RP 3rd Wednesday each month Hill, diagnostic Richmond, Surrey, • 2nd Recognised byeach all major Wednesday monthinsurers KEW – The Greyhound, 82 Kew Green, Kew,TW9 3AP • Fixed price surgery and finance 3rd Thursday each month packages available ISLEWORTH – The Royal Oak, 128 Worton Rd, New Victoria Hospital Isleworth, TW7 6EP 184 Coombe Lane West – The French Table, SURBITON Thursday month A2nd private, charityeach owned hospital providing Kingston upon Thames 85 compassionate healthcare for almost 60 years Surrey KT2 7EGMaple Road, Surbiton, KT6 4AW 4th Tuesday each month HAMPTON COURT – La Fiamma, Old Park House, *Over 99% of patients rated our overall quality of care as Excellent or Very Good.

Patient Satisfaction Survey Jan-Jul 2016

T. +44 (0) 20 8949 9000 E. enquiries@newvictoria.co.uk W. www.newvictoria.co.uk contact Charmaine on 07507 151

For more information 058 or email charmaine.mace@theathenanetwork.com

wellness review ....................

Time to FLUSH OUT THOSE TOXINS! Darling editor embarked on a full-body cleanse to find out what the detoxing fuss is all about

I

recently heard Tracey Mason talk about the benefits of regular cleansing and how toxic build-up in our internal organs is one of the causes for us storing fat around the waist. That was just the trigger I needed to embark on a ten-day cleanse.

I love a strong coffee in the morning and was dreading giving that up for ten days. I expected withdrawal symptoms such as a headache as I hadn’t been reducing my caffeine intake gradually before the start. Luckily, no headache, but I was feeling a bit sluggish for the first three days.

Swapping coffee for warm water with lemon juice first thing in the morning wasn’t too bad, in fact drinking plenty of water is the key to cleansing as it flushes toxins out and aids fibre to work effectively.

This cleanse is really simple to follow if you can live without caffeine, alcohol, red meat, processed meats, wheat, refined sugar and dairy for a while. I didn’t find this too difficult as everything else

is allowed in moderation: fresh and dried fruit, veg, fish, chicken, rye bread, oats and even eggs and there are so many delicious dairy alternatives, such as coconut oil for cooking and almond, coconut and oat milk to have with your muesli in the morning. Soya products are not recommended.

I received a Nature’s Sunshine Healthy Starter Pack in the post a few days after ordering it.

The pack included a supply of five natural herbal combination capsules each to be taken three times a day before meals. These capsules aid the whole body’s cleansing; liver function, urinary tract, colon and intestinal system, blood circulation and digestive health. There was also a bottle of liquid chlorophyll, a natural spearmint flavour supplement to add to water, and a high potency probiotic which is recommended during and after the cleanse to aid gut function.

My verdict; coffee craving gone in the mornings and I realised it’s not needed for my stomach to kick into action. The initial bloating also disappeared after a few days. My slight eyelid puffiness is nearly gone too.

I’m also feeling a lot more focused and alert even after a couple of very short nights.

Find out more about Health Practitioner Tracey Mason and cleansing at: knew-you.com

darlingmagazine.co.uk WINTER 2016 | 2017

21

Independent day school for boys aged 4-13

Smart, Skilful and Kind

Headmaster’s Coffee Mornings These include a tour of the school by one of our senior boys, a presentation from the Headmaster and the opportunity to ask questions.

24 November 2016 • 9.00 - 10.45am • 7+ 12 January 2017 • 9.00 - 10.45am • 4+ Please email admissions@rokeby.org.uk to book a place.

The ballot for entry in 2018 to Reception takes place in early March 2017.

Registrations must be received by February 2017.

Assessment morning for entry in 2017 to Year 3 and 4: Saturday 7 January 2017.

www.rokebyschool.co.uk

•

020 8942 2247

Rokeby School, George Road, Kingston upon Thames, Surrey, KT2 7PB

schools in the news .........................

Inside a BOYS' PREP SCHOOL Darling editor visits Rokeby School to talk to Lucia Sanderson, Head of Lower School

M

rs Sanderson joined Rokeby 12 years ago, working first as a Year 2 teacher and the past six years as Head of the Lower School which includes boys from Reception up to Year 3.

“Being a local girl I was always aware of the reputation of Rokeby School. It is an academic school but with a focus on an all-round education. I grew up in that environment and believe a family and friendly ethos is the best way to learn.”

The early years are so very important for a child's future development; both academic and generally in life. What would you say are the most important things a school can do in order to give a child the best possible start for their long journey in education?

“I believe firmly that a child has to enjoy and love his learning environment. Nurturing the boys, encouraging kindness, focusing on the positive and celebrating every type of success, big or small, and offering a creative and exciting curriculum are key areas to target at a young age.

We strive to ensure that each and every boy achieves his potential and discovers his own unique talents and interests.” My boys are proud to be ‘Smart, Skilful and Kind’.

Why do you feel it's important to offer single sex education to the early years and up to senior school level?

Both genders have the same abilities to learn but boys learn differently to girls and their interests are different. At Rokeby we can ensure our curriculum is tailored to suit the needs of boys; they may show an interest in Sport, Music, Drama, DT, Art or IT. It is important they feel comfortable in their environment, this can then build their emotional intelligence and can result in higher academic success.”

How is the move by many independent boys' senior schools towards 11+ intake changing the future for prep schools?

“Boys develop at different stages and we have found that the additional two years in a prep school environment better prepares them for the next step. Our top years give the boys additional responsibilities, the opportunity to travel the world whilst still focusing on their studies. Upon leaving, Year 8 Rokeby boys are confident, independent learners.” www.rokebyschool.co.uk darlingmagazine.co.uk WINTER 2016 | 2017

23

What’s On Kingston Camera Club’s Annual Photographic Exhibition 4-19 Nov, Tues, Fri, Sat: 10 am-5 pm; Thu: 10am-7pm The Gallery, Kingston Museum, Wheatfield Way KT1 2PS A selection of the best digital images taken by the club members. kingstoncameraclub.co.uk

30 Coombe Road, Norbiton, KT2 7AG t:020 85496622 w:wineduphere.co.uk

Jackson Longe Solicitors WILLS, TRUSTS & PROBATE | CONVEYANCING LITIGATION | BUSINESS LAW

St David’s House, 15 Worple Way Richmond Upon Thames, TW10 6DG Tel: 0208 332 2069 www.jacksonlonge.com

Do you have a great business idea

but need help setting up/managing your

website • advertising • social media • business cards • logo • publicity ?

We can help!

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logos • stationery • publications • ads • websites www.apila.co.uk • info@apila.co.uk • 07754 524 367

The Really Helpful Club Arthur Miller's All My Sons Thurs, 10 Nov Best seats in the house Pre-show and interval private reception with canapés and drinks and a talk from Executive Producer, Jerry Gunn. At Rose Theatre Kingston Tickets: caroline@reallyhelpfulclub.com CHRISTMAS LIGHTS switch-on with entertainment, celebrity guests and Father Christmas 17 Nov - Kingston, 6pm 24 Nov - Surbiton Station 24 Nov - Teddington Carols at 6pm, switch-on at 6:30 Kingston Christmas Market Sat 19 Nov – Sat 31 Dec High Street, Kingston Hot street food and mulled wine in two outdoor bars and gifts from over 100 stalls in wooden chalets selling festive arts, crafts and decorations. visitkingston.co.uk/events Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink Nov 25 to Jan 8, 11am-9pm Located in front of the stunning historic Hampton Court Palace £13.50 Adult, £9.50 child hamptoncourtpalaceicerink.co.uk Christmas Craft Fair Sun 29 Nov, 11.00 am-3.00 pm Tiffin Girls’ School, Richmond Road,

Kingston 50 stalls with crafts and gifts; bottles, chocolate and make-up tombolas + traditional games, music and singing throughout the day. Free entry Coombe Hill Junior School Christmas Fair Fri 2 Dec, 2.30pm-4.30pm Coombe Lane West, Kingston 30 stalls with gifts, presents and treats Free entry A Double Measure of Christmas Spirit concert Sat 10 Dec, 7:30 pm Open rehearsal 2.30 pm All Saints’ Parish Church, Market Place, Kingston Get into the spirit of Christmas with choral music from Vaughan Williams, Sweelinck, Kelly, Gabrieli and excerpts from Handel’s Messiah Tickets from £5 to £20, concessions.

Box Office: 07522 524081 or thamesphilchoir.org.uk London Professional Artists Network : “Blue” group art exhibition of artwork inspired by the colour and mood blue 14 Dec-14 Jan The Art Space, Kingston Cass Art, 103 Clarence Street, KT1 1QY Free, no need to book, children welcome Evening View Drinks (free but RSVP) Wed 14 Dec, 6pm-9pm Surbiton Christmas Farmers' Market Sat 17 Dec, 10am-Noon Maple Road, Surbiton Win a Christmas Hamper; pick up an entry at the market or online and bring it along on 17 Nov. surbitonfarmersmarket.co.uk/mapleroad/press.html

a pull-out diary for the festive season Candlelit Christmas Carol Service Sun 18 Dec, 6 pm St Mark’s Church, St Mark’s Hill, Surbiton A Service of Nine Lessons and Carols as made famous by King’s College Chapel.

“In the beginning was the music…”

Free, all welcome Community Carol Service Sun 18 Dec, 4:30-6:30 pm All Saints’ Church, Kingston Festive community carol service.

Mulled wine and mince pies follow the service.

Free, all welcome allsaintskingston.co.uk/event/community-carol-service NORMANSFIELD THEATRE, Teddington Full listing and tickets at: langdondowncentre.org.uk The Magic Flute 18-20 Nov, 7:30pm Richmond Opera’s performance of Mozart’s Magic Flute. Tickets £15 Otakar Kraus Music Trust’s Christmas Concert 10 Dec, 7:30pm-9:30pm Normansfield Christmas Craft Fair 26 Nov, 11:00 am - 4:30 pm LANDMARK ARTS CENTRE, Teddington Full listing and tickets at landmarkartscentre.org Paul Jones and Dave Kelly The Blues Band Thu 5 Jan 2017, 8pm Doors & bar open: 7:15pm Tickets £18 Reserved, £20 on door

Tenebrae Consort: Sun, Moon and Stars Thu 29 Jan, 7:30pm English folk song, new versions of French, Finnish and Japanese traditional melodies alongside classics from the Great American Songbook.

Tickets £20 Concessions £15/18

Tickets include a three-course traditional Burns Night supper (with a tot of whiskey to toast the haggis!), ceilidh dancing and disco to follow.

Glenmore House in Surbiton.

For tickets (£50 each) call Momentum on 020 8974 5931.

ROSE THEATRE, Kingston Full listing and tickets at rosetheatrekingston.org The Wind in the Willows Tue 6 Dec - Tue 3 Jan Rose Christmas Concert Mon 12 Dec, 7:30 pm Jungle Book Fri 06 Jan - Wed 11 Jan Rose Youth Theatre’s exciting new adaptation Rose Fashion Show Thu 26 Jan, 6:30 pm Boutique Village opens, 7:30 pm first fashion show ORANGE TREE THEATRE, Richmond Full listing and tickets: orangetreetheatre.co.uk Sheppey

By Somerset Maugham 24 NoV - 7 Jan RICHMOND THEATRE Full listings and tickets at atgtickets. com/venues/richmond-theatre Sleeping Beauty 2 Dec - 8 Jan Maureen Lipman makes a welcome return to Richmond’s spectacular Panto as the Wicked Fairy Momentum children’s charity Burn’s Night Supper & Ceilidh Fri 27 Jan, 6:30pm to midnight

Want to be seen?

legal promotion

legal promo .....................

Room to grow With Tamzin Mandelli

B

usiness has been going well and it’s time to expand. Your spare room has served its purpose and you now want to find the perfect premises for your business.

There are many things to consider before you take the plunge: • What sort of property do you need?

• What impression will the property give to your potential customers and staff?

• Do you need any particular facilities?

• How much space do you need now and how much space will you need in the future?

• Should you buy or rent?

32 26

There are benefits to both buying and renting. Renting allows you to move into business premises without a huge outlay of funds and to test the market as to whether a particular area works as well as you hoped for your business. There are of course drawbacks to renting – you have little choice as to the timing of repair and renovation work or cost and your rent will be “dead” money. You may also face difficulties when the lease comes to an end.

Buying property requires a much greater outlay of funds and leaves you with less flexibility if your business outgrows the space or the area fundamentally changes.

There are ways of structuring a purchase

sept-oct WINTER2016 2016||darlingmagazine.co.uk 2017 darlingmagazine.co.uk

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

to make it tax efficient – for example, buying through a self-invested pension and renting to your business.

Having made the decision to buy or rent and having decided on what you are looking for and your budget, it’s time to find the perfect property. At this stage, it can be helpful to engage a commercial property agent. Similar to an estate agent, but working on your behalf, an agent can help negotiate terms as well as find a suitable property. The help in negotiating terms can be particularly useful if you have decided to rent.

The property that you buy or rent will need to be suitable for your business and what may appear ideal on a viewing may not have such perfect paperwork.

You will need to consider both the oneoff costs of the purchase or lease and the ongoing expenses associated with the property. These may include: • Professional fees: surveyors, solicitors, architects, planning consultants etc • Planning Authority fees • Renovation and/or alteration costs • Stamp Duty Land Tax • Deposit – often 20-30% of the value of the property • Rent Deposit – usually equivalent to 6 month’s rent • VAT • Rent or mortgage payments • Insurance

The use of property is regulated by planning. This specifies the use to which a property can be put. Certain uses can be changed to another specific use without consent, whilst others will need planning permission. The cost of any planning permission for use and any consents (planning and/or building regulation) for work you propose to do to the building will need to be budgeted for. You should also remember that, if you are renting, you may also need Landlord’s consent for alterations and change of use. Again there is a cost implication to this.

If you choose to rent, it is important to show yourself in the best light possible to a future Landlord. This will include having a detailed Business Plan.

• Maintenance and general repairs • Running costs and service charges Start-ups have been known to fail because they forgot to include an expense (for example, business rates) in their calculations.

Moving into new business premises is an exciting time for any business. It is important to ensure that you have done the necessary preparation. This article is intended for general guidance only and specific advice should be sought for an individual property.

Tamzin Mandelli tpm@hartbrown.co.uk 0208 212 7274

darlingmagazine.co.uk WINTER 2016 | 2017

27

agony aunt

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

Ask Grania

email: kingston@darlingmagazine.co.uk

In my column, I am addressing questions and worries sent in by you, Darling readers. An independent person can sometimes offer different suggestions and solutions to problems, as they can look at things objectively, from a fresh point of view. Please send me your questions and I will do my best to help. Your identity will be held strictly confidential.

"I dread Christmas! It makes me feel stressed!"

We are bombarded with messages of ‘perfect’ Christmas and an expectation you should have a partner, be popular and sociable.

This leaves many people feeling disappointed and isolated.

Think about what you enjoy in the festive season and do just that, or ignore it if it doesn’t mean much to you. Very challenging I admit if you have a family and partner to keep happy, but explain to them that you are doing your best and enjoying it your way even if you are not beaming the whole time singing carols.

If you’re experiencing problems in your relationship, being together over the holidays can reach crisis point. Discussing things that can trigger arguments (like feeling overworked, unappreciated or

judged) is worth trying, as you may be able to agree on a plan to stop disagreements escalating.

"I’m a man and my friend bullies me! I’m trying to joke about it but it’s really hurtful."

The truth is people can’t manipulate you unless you let them.

People can’t push you around, put you under pressure, unless you fall in with the game.

Want it to stop? So stop pulling when he pushes, pushing when he pulls. If he has a go, ask him if he’s having a bad day, and back off. Tell him you’ll come back to chat when he’s feeling better, or ask him if he needs to talk about anything. It’s more than possible he does what he does without realising how unpleasant it is.

Maybe he needs to learn from experience, when he acts in that way he won’t get what he wants.

Grania Young

At present, you ‘reinforce’ his behaviour – by that I mean you show him it always works. Stop letting it work and he’ll soon learn not to do it.

People who can take power from us are the ones we give power to.

He doesn’t make your life so hard – you do, by taking what he says so seriously, by taking it personally and by reacting when he behaves this way. Take a deep breath.

React positively to his nice behaviour rather than falling into line with his bad stuff.

Seasonal tip: Focus on solutions, not problems.

Negative circumstances don't sit idly by – they scream for our attention. When we face difficult circumstances, we tend to dwell on them and give them way too much attention.

Instead of talking about problems, talk solutions. Instead of spending your time thinking about how bad things are, think about how good they will be!

Don't let yourself or other friends complain; encourage them to solve, with an emphasis on the positive results that will come from doing so. Then take some time to put these solutions down on paper so you can monitor your progress.

darlingmagazine.co.uk WINTER 2016 | 2017

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books

........

Editor’s picks for great reads these make wonderful gifts too!

Smart - A Mysterious Crime, a Different Detective by Kim Slater Kieran watches the world carefully. He’s good at noticing things that others don’t which makes him an excellent detective. Born with learning difficulties and living with a violent stepfather, Kieran has a lot to contend with but his inner resilience gives him great strength as he sets out to solve some of the many mysteries that are intertwined around his life.

An evocative and compelling debut for fans of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time Shortlisted for Children’s Book Award 2016, Books for Older Readers category - Shortlisted for the Waterstone's Best Fiction for Teens Award 2015 - June 2014 Debut of the Month.

Apple and Rain by Sarah Crossan Apple is sure that one day her mother will return. And when that happens she is sure that everything in her life will be good again. But when Mum does return, Apple finds that what you wish for may not always be what you really want. With the arrival of mum, Apple’s life is turned upside down. Home, school and most of all, what she really thinks about all those around her, are all thrown into confusion. Can Apple find happiness in a new way of life? Apple’s poems help her to tell this touching story of an unhappy and complicated family life.

Winner of the Children’s Book Award 2016, Books for Older Readers category Longlisted for the 2015 Guardian Children's Book prize - Shortlisted for the 2015 CILIP Carnegie Medal

London Uncovered by Mark Daly and Peter Dazeley London Uncovered is a sequel to Peter Dazeley’s hugely successful Unseen London.

The new book features accessible locations allowing readers to do more than just look at beautiful images; they can visit the locations themselves.

There are over 60 London locations featured and the stunning images are beautifully presented with historical detail by Mark Daly. Dazeley’s photographs bring the locations to life from the Charterhouse, an oasis of tranquility on the edge of the City of London, to Wilton’s Music Hall, the oldest surviving music hall in the world.

The variety of locations will keep the reader’s interest from beginning to end; with visitor information included, the desire to make a personal trip is compelling.

Shopped by Emily Stott 'I headed alone for Knightsbridge - a strange choice for a skint teenager - and it was there that I fell in love for the first time. The dress was little, black and slightly frou-frou, and I knew on sight that it was the one.'

Emily Stott reveals the tricks and secrets of the fashion retail trade with the backdrop of her own experiences working in the industry from the shop floor as a teenager to mystery shopping and personal styling as an adult.

Emily is a personal stylist and writer living in Kingston, where she was also raised.

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WINTER 2016 | 2017 darlingmagazine.co.uk

health

........

Can AUTISM be transformed?

Helping autistic children fulfil their potential

W

hen our son Daniel began to withdraw and stop communicating with us at age one and started having intense and prolonged meltdowns at the slightest setbacks, my wife and I became very concerned. By the time he was 18 months, we had lost practically all of our relationship with him, as he simply lay on the floor all day rolling a toy car backwards and forwards, resenting any attempt to make contact.

The doctors told us not to worry, but we could clearly see that something was very wrong. We did our research and discovered that his behaviour was consistent with autism. After a fight to get to see an NHS paediatrician and get Daniel assessed and diagnosed, the specialists still had nothing to offer us to help us with what we

by Guy Shahar

were going through at that time.

We decided to take matters into our own hands and explore what help was available. We found methods with real evidence behind them. We even took Daniel to a specialist clinic for autistic toddlers in Israel for three weeks of exclusive treatment. All they did was play with him intensively in a room all day. However it was done in such a way as to make him feel safe and bring out his natural inclination to participate in the world and derive satisfaction from interacting with others.

It was the best decision we could have made. With continued work at home (which we had been trained on during our stay), Daniel’s speech quickly started to return, the meltdowns receded, his various sensitivities subsided and he became an open, happy and communicative boy again. He is now seven, living a fulfilled life and thriving in a mainstream school, things that would have been unthinkable earlier. We feel truly lucky!

My book, Transforming Autism (available from Amazon) shares what we went through and what we learnt.

I am currently launching a charity, The Transforming Autism Project to provide parents and carers with real hope and practical support to help their autistic children live full lives and realise their true potential. In November, I will be giving a TED talk entitled The Beautiful Reality of Autism to expand awareness of this.

Please visit us to see what help we may be able to offer you, or to join us in our goals: transformingautism.co.uk, or contact me directly at: guy@ transformingautism.co.uk

darlingmagazine.co.uk WINTER 2016 | 2017

31

On the scene

With editor Marja-Leena Toseland

Good Canary press night at Rose Theatre - the stars came out in Kingston

Richard E Grant

Sara Stewart

John Altman

Fraya Mavor, in the lead role as Annie Brent Davies and Andy Currums and Cllr Rowena Bass

Timothy West and Prunella Scales

Darling editor with John Malkovich, director of Good Canary

Robin Hutchinson MBE, Lucy Symons and Billy Lee Willmot

Cythare Cooper and Abraham Lewis

Kingston Carnival took over the town

Florian and Silvia Bollen with Bele and Reinhard Weiss, owners of Stein's Restaurants

Antje Moor and Alexandra Silva Nascimento

Dancing Fun Machine zumba group

Aerolatino dancers with agony aunt Sky Grania Young and Jeff Davila , founder of Aerolatino Fitness

John Azah, Kingston Racial Equality Council and Roy Arora, former Mayor Bollywood dancing

Philippa Hennessy (Darling North Surrey) wins Best Franchisee Award, Best Business Women Awards 2016

CBD Charitable Trust's Garden Party & fundraiser by founder Reverend Ingrid Scott

Patricia Campbell-Parker, Muriel Mueller, Bele Weiss, Monica Hanson and Maryana Savchuk

Annie Brooks and Annie Armitage

Singer Melissa James

Malekia Tyrell-Robinson, William Bainborough, Elaine Robinson, Stephen Felgate, Ingrid Scott and Caroline Felgate

Lucy Razveeva, Susi Senny, Seena Parsaei, Ingrid Scott and Afsaneh Mohammati

Darling designer Anu & husband Steve's birthday party in nostalgic 80s style

Paul and Katharine Stoddart with Leanne and Michael Gardener

Anu West, Jeff Davila, Marja-Leena Toseland and Helena Whitaker

Annie Simpson, Guy Whittle, Emma Chambers, Simon Amott and Nikki Squire

Frank Kelly, Geraldine Murphy, Julia Kelly and Mike Larby

Best of the Borough exhibition by Kingston Independent Network of Creatives (KINC) KINC

Paul Mowatt, Jo Campbell, Michael White and Clara Rueprich

Robin Rutherford with Ewa Morawski

Melissa-Jo Heathcote

Shahinoor Hasham, Lyndsay Russell and Bee Smith John Cowell and Janie Harland

Robin Rutherford, Marja-Leena Toseland and Paul Fearn

Paul Mowatt and Nataliya Zozulya

New Victoria Hospital - official opening of their new wing

Consultant Podiatrist Nick Masucci and Jane Masucci

David Duncan, Club Captain; Gary Robinson, Club President; John Driscoll, Chair of Charity Commission and Kate Barnett, Lady Captain - Malden Golf Club

Graham Ball, Chief Executive of the hospital with HRH Princess Alexandra

Catherine Mackay, Sally Dobinson and Giles Davies

Dr Catherine Aboud Breege Doyle and Mayor Geoff Austin, Lorna Votier from the Shobha Sait Victoria Foundation and Mayoress Sheila Austin and Dr Jiloufer Byramji

The Really Helpful Club's Health and Wellbeing Workshop with nutritionist and naturopath Kayte Ashton KINC

Andrew Morris, Bronwen Gray and Linda Segerstam

Kayte Ashton, Vanessa Alexander and Jemma Foster

Caroline Edwards, Kayte Ashton and Sarah Austin, The Really Helpful Club

Kingston Mortgage Services opened their new offices at Ashley House

,

Mayoress Sheila Austin, Chris Poore, Kingston Mortgage Services with Mayor Geoff Austin

Charmaine Mace, Property Cycle, Ashley House, Sarah Poore and Jackie Mitchell

Martina Kovacova, Frederik Faure and Jacqui Trigg

Edward Creasey, David Grady and Ian Lowe

Re-inventing the Selfie exhibition by KAOS artists

Kashmira Jhaveri, Liz Harrington and Jo Ellis KAOS committee members; Buffy Kimm, Hanna Koolman, Richard Tomlin and Peg Morris

Kingston Chamber of Commerce Women in Business lunch at Jack's Kitchen Kingston Arts meetup in Surbiton

Cath Howe, Della Renald, Aine Lark - Chair of Kingston Arts and Shamim Sharif , author/film Catherine Cattani, Diana Csok and Sheilaz director and Hannan Kattan, Hollie Redman - Quality Solicitors Griffin author/producer Rose & Rose

Lorna Giffin and Amanda McLoughlin

Surbiton Festival fun at Surbofest KINC

Kingston Beekeepers; Keith McMahon, Nicky Hogg, Andy Walters, Anne Jones and Derek Jones

RNLI; Paul Hill, Geoff Turner, Chris Dainty as Stormy Stan and Peter Watson

Pottery artists; Charlotte Stockley and Cressida Borrett

The Really Helpful Club helped celebrate fit8's new gym opening

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WI (Maple Village); Shirin Georgiani, Elena Alison Derrick, founder Kristina Rizova and Roman Maxim Blunsum, Leigh Hernderson and Dominie of BeeInspired from Jack's Kitchen Seymour Sarah Austin, Rebecca Charlton - TV presenter,

Holy Cross Prep School's MacMillan Coffee Morning

Jemma Oliver and Louise Whelan, co-founder of fit8

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Dreamflight 30 years of changing lives parents. Many have returned with boosted self esteem, a sense of independence and the knowledge that they are not alone. Although the holiday only lasts ten days, the benefits for these most deserving children are often life-long.

E

ach year Dreamflight takes 192 children on a specially chartered British Airways aircraft for a 10-day ‘trip of a lifetime’ to the theme parks of Orlando, Florida. These children, who all have a serious illness or disability, are looked after by a large team of volunteer escorts during the trip, including doctors, nurses and physiotherapists.

Dreamflight gives children an opportunity to do something that medicine can’t: discover independence, confidence, and a new outlook on life. For many children this is the first time they have been away from their

“My daughter still hasn't come down to earth, she can’t stop talking about what a fantastic time she had. She has found her confidence again and it is so lovely to see… She had non-stop fun and said everyone made her feel very special. I am truly grateful to you all; you have given my daughter the strength and confidence to be herself.’”

The mother of a Dreamflight child

The charity was co-founded by a former British Airways cabin crew member, Patricia Pearce MBE, in 1987. The trip was started as a one-off, with Princess Diana waving the first flight off from London’s Heathrow - but it has since operated every year for 30 years.

Jenny Adaway and BA colleagues on this year's Dreamflight

Over 5,000 children have so far taken part and many children have gone on to amazing achievements. In 2008, eight of the returning Paralympians from Beijing, many of them medal-winning, had

by Sally Wrampling Director, Dreamflight

CBBC's Dick and Dom at the Dreamflight Gala Night

been Dreamflight children citing the trip as a turning point for them, including swimmer Liz Johnson a Team GB gold medallist, Natasha Baker MBE (equestrian), Amy Conroy (basketball) and David Smith (boccia).

Kingston residents, Jenny Adaway and Katja Ward, were helpers on this year's trip. It was BA air hostess Jenny's twelfth Dreamflight, but this year was Katja's first: “I've never seen happiness like it - this has changed my life as well as the children's!”

Dreamflight needs to raise in excess of £750,000 each year to help each new wave of children. dreamflight.org facebook.com/Dreamflightpage twitter.com/Dreamflight

“Dreamflight has taught me a lot of things. One is to never let your illness put you down, always look on the bright side of life, and remember there is always someone out there who is worse off than you.”

A Dreamflight Child

darlingmagazine.co.uk WINTER 2016 | 2017

37

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Christmas Crackers W

hile we cram our house with all kinds of evergreens, tinsel and sparkle to create Christmas cheer, don’t write off what is happening in the garden. There are some real Christmas crackers outside in the wind and the rain, all ready to burst into colour and scent.

upright deciduous shrub. The flowers begin to bud up in late autumn, and you’ll probably not see them while the leaves remain on the plant. But, when they open in their full glory, you won’t miss them. In the words of that inimitable Strictly Come Dancing judge – they’ll smell Fab-U-Lus.

It’s true to generalise that most winter garden flowers are pale in colour, if not white. And, it’s almost true to say that most of these will have a scent. Think about it.. the weather is dark and gloomy and there may well be a fog or a mist about. The only way the flower can hope to attract its pollinator is to shine like a beacon (pale colours show up better in the dark) and to push out a strong scent.

The second is Lonicera fragrantissima or its near relative L. X purpusii ’Winter Beauty’ – I mean, the names really do say it all! Both of these plants will push out their fragrant white flowers in pairs along naked stems. Unlike other honeysuckles, neither of these is a climber and should be treated as rounded shrubs.

I have three stalwarts in my winter flowering repertoire: The first is Viburnum X botnantense 'Dawn', an

Viburnum X botnantense 'Dawn'

My third best, Hamamelis X intermedia ‘Pallida’ (witchhazel) produces clusters of large, frost resistant, fragrant, spider-shaped sulphur yellow flowers, again on bare leafless stems. The added bonus for this

Lonicera fragrantissima

little beauty is its fiery autumn leaf colour. What more could you ask?

These will all fare well in any sized garden, but placing them needs a little thought. There is no point tucking them at the back of a border. They are all best put close to a path or other place that you might linger: beside the patio or close to the washing line; perhaps even beside the front door to amuse your visitors.

Wherever you put them, your nostrils will truly think it’s Christmas every one of those dark winter days. © 2016 Valerie McBride-Munro Valerie McBride-Munro is a chartered horticulturist. As Auntie Planty, she helps to solve your plant and gardening problems. Her advice is only a mouse click away: www.auntieplanty.co.uk

Hamamelis X intermedia ‘Pallida’

darlingmagazine.co.uk WINTER 2016 | 2017

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cookery ..........

Cook's corner

Easy treats to warm you up this winter Mulled White Wine Ingredients • 750 ml (1 bottle) white wine • juice of 1 orange • 1 orange, sliced (leave slices for garnish) • 8 tablespoons white granulated sugar (to taste) • 1 tablespoon honey • 5-6 cloves • 4-5 star anise • 4 cinnamon sticks

Finnish Joulutorttu Christmas Stars There's no added sugar in these Finnish Joulutorttu pastries, windmill-shaped tarts with a prune jam filling. I make the pastry myself using butter and ricotta or quark (the latter is my favourite but tangier). You can also use ready-made puff pastry which makes fluffier tarts, however the ricotta pastry is nicer in taste, they just melt in your mouth!

These are quite fiddly to make but worth it. You can also freeze them for a later date.

Method 1. In a pot, over medium-high heat, combine all the ingredients and bring to a simmer.

2. Lower the heat, let wine slightly simmer for about 20 minutes, then remove from heat.

Oranges aren't a must. You can use lemons, mandarins, or even chopped apples.

Pastry: • 500g unsalted butter cubed, at room temperature • 500g light ricotta or quark • 500g plain flour Mix butter and flour together with fingers to form a crumby consistency. Add ricotta and mix until it all comes together to form dough. Roll into a ball then flatten into a disc shape and wrap in clingfilm, place in the fridge for 30 minutes.

Jam Filling: • 300g pitted prunes • Water – just enough to cover the prunes in a medium sized saucepan

Soak prunes for 2 hours, rinse, then place into a saucepan with water. Bring to the boil then reduce heat and simmer until the prunes have completely softened (about 15-20 minutes). Stir every so often to ensure they do not stick to the pan. Once the prunes are soft, and most of the water has been absorbed, remove from the heat. Either puree the jam or mash with a fork.

Divide the dough in three and roll each out into 1cm thick sheet, cut into squares of 8x8 cm and cut in from the corners leaving an uncut area in the middle. Fill each square with a teaspoon of jam, fold and push the corners in forming a windmill-shaped star and brush with egg yolk. Bake for about 10 minutes at 200C. Optional: Sprinkle with icing sugar before serving.

44

WINTER 2016 | 2017 darlingmagazine.co.uk

Stayman’s party trick with Paul Mendelson

A tree is for life, not just for Christmas

London Christmas trees saving lives in Africa

bridge

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Creating Connections Whilst a tree is something we buy and throw away a few Inspiring weeks later, it Success means life or death around the world. WorkOver many decades, the Stayman convention has ing with TreeAid, let’s plant the seed of an idea to spread become a much misused gadget but, with correct the WIMBLEDON, joy of Christmas far andBALHAM wide. AND STREATHAM PUTNEY, application and good judgement, it can prove very Wimbledon, Athena qp new Putney, Balham, Kingston, PAUL BRIDGE beneficial to your bidding.

TheEMAIL ChristmasStreatham Forest is London’s favourite treetailer Surbiton, and Hampton Court with each pop up venue creating the magic of going to a counCOLLECT COPIESNorth AT OUR “HOTSPOTS” julie.eltham@theathenanetwork.com try www.theathenanetwork.com farm. With the widest selection of trees for Londoners S AK1062 to choose EMAILfrom, it’s a great chance to rummage through * Nicholas & Steele H 78 KJ42Durham Rd nature in the city. julie@theathenanetwork.com Tel: 07947 011879 D 9 HELPFUL WIMBLEDON WEBSITES West East C 532 Love Wimbledon Don’t choose until you have touched, smelt, shaken, taken S J85 * Maison St. Cassien, Wimbledon Village S Q74 www.lovewimbledon.org a step back to look and spun itWEBSITES around (more than) a few HELPFUL WIMBLEDON H 1053Tel: 020 8944 1200 H 96 London Borough of Merton times withWimbledon carols and friendly Foresters to greet you and Love D KQ2 D A87653 * Southfields Gallery 223 Wimbledon Park helpwww.merton.gov.uk you find your favourite. www.lovewimbledon.org South C A1074 C J9Rd Tel: 07947 675 059 S 93 Citizen’s Advice Bureau London Borough of Merton When you support TreeAid you are also gifting www.merton.gov.uk www.nacab.org.uk H AQ87 a tree as a tree is planted in Africa for each one * Truckles Deli on Coombe Citizen’s Advice Bureau D J104 Lane SW20 Merton Chamber of Commerce sold – we aim to hit our 200,000th tree this year.

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point of view

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

Hey sugar, sugar..

I

double-checked what I’d eaten over the last three days and scrubbed out Starbucks Egg-nog coffee with whipped cream. After all, naturopath Kayte Ashton had asked me to bring a list of what I ate, not drank.

I’d heard that naturopaths sort you out from head to toe - it seemed we were going to start with my mouth, and what crap I stuffed into it.

Kayte, bless her, hid her shock like a real pro. My ‘normal eating days’ went something like: Sugary cereal for breakfast, doughnut for brunch, lashings of toast and plum jam for tea, and for supper a bit of poached salmon (my token healthy mouthful) and a chocolate bar. I bleated to her that my recent gym membership had failed to remove the baby weight around my tummy.

“And how old is the baby now?” she asked.

“19 years,” I mumbled.

She instantly diagnosed a serious sugar addiction.

T’was true. A dangerous long-term habit that causes diabetes, never mind my mid-life-midriff. Kayte clearly explained how my endless sugar ‘hits’ created spikes that simply fed off on each other - how starting off with a sugar-loaded breakfast only set me up to fail all day.

“If a meal has too many sugars such as white bread and jam, your pancreas goes into panic trying to cope, and creates too much insulin - a hormone that triggers the cells to open up and absorb the sugar out of the bloodstream into your tissues (and into fat).

results in a bad rebound - a low blood sugar level in the depleted bloodstream. You feel tired, grumpy and craving only something sweet again.”

For me, she clearly explained how my (chocolate) buttons were being pressed: so, just a few hours after giving into a walnut cake, my confused system screams for the Oreo cookies to correct the deficit. My overworked pancreas was struggling to stabilise.

Kayte then tested my irises, reflexes, blood pressure, nails and tongue. Following eight years of studying, Ashton mixes a background of biology and natural medicine with the demeanour of a ‘wise woman of the woods’. On the first visit, l left with a fantastic recipe for a healthy, non-sugary breakfast (which actually works - stopped my cravings immediately), and a goodybag of herbal teas, chromium pills to manage my urges, an alternative healthy chocolate, and botanical flower drops to lift my mood swings.

Overall, a really sweet experience - only this one is actually brilliant for your wellbeing.

This overabsorption 46

WINTER 2016 | 2017 darlingmagazine.co.uk

You can find Kayte on: she-healthandhealing.co.uk

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