Darling Magazine Richmond - Autumn 2017

darling AUTUMN 2017  free

inspiring women

BACK TO WORK Let's talk about equality Dress to IMPRESS work fashion edit

BACK TO SCHOOL Pick of the area's best independent schools Teddington celebrates 800 years

JAN MEEK is preparing for her

NEXT ADVENTURE The Really Helpful Club today's Mary Poppins bag

living living&&lifestyle lifestyle in in richmond, kingston,twickenham surbiton & teddington & st margarets | |darlingmagazine.co.uk darlingmagazine.co.uk

Newland House School Independent Preparatory Day & Nursery School for Girls and Boys from 3 to 13 years

New Nursery Opens September 2017 • New term-time nursery for girls and boys aged 3 to 4 • Year 3 2018 entry via 7+ Assessment • Register for Reception entry up to 2022 eouse.n

et www.newlandhouse.net

Park, Twickenham • TW1 Waldegrave Welcome MorningsNe• 22 September • 3 November 1 4TQ December

Call to book your place or to make an individual appointment to see the school t: 020 8865 1305 e: admissions@newlandhouse.net www.newlandhouse.net 28 - 36 WALDEGRAVE PARK TWICKENHAM TW1 4TQ

What’s this autumn got in store for you?

editor’s letter

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

Cover: Jan Meek Photo by Kiera Fyles, Palmer Photography palmerphotography.co.uk.

Makeup by Kristina Gasperas kristinagasperas.com

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

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

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

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

Marja-Leena Toseland Editor| richmond@darlingmagazine.co.uk CONTENTS 4 7 10 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 27 28 30 31 32 37 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46

Jan Meek - being an adventurer is in her genes Crown Road - St Margaret's village high street Schools in focus - our independent schools guide Schools in the news Stressing about the new school year?

Education News How can you support your children with their educational needs?

Challenging stereotypes through theatre The kids are alright - are we?

21st century politics The Really Helpful Club - your Mary Poppins bag of everything you need Sex in the City Embracing change HIIT it! The Really Healthy Girl workout to burning fat Osteopathy - how can it help you?

Let's talk about cystitis On the couch with Dr De-Stress Are you loving the fabric?

Back to work fashion edit Mrs Bennett's Ballroom Teddington turns 800 On the scene with the Darling editor Lunch date in prison anyone?

Keep on dreaming with Trendy Spaces Accessing solutions An update on my challenge Eye-watering sum raised at the Eye Ball Box therapy by Valerie McBride-Munro What's On Paul Mendelson's bridge column Lyndsay Russell's Point of View

inspiring woman

Being an

ADVENTURER is in the genes for JAN MEEK

F

rom a career in film production working with the likes of Roger Moore, Sammy Davis Jr and Jerry Lewis, through restaurant owner - including the prestigious De Courceys in South Wales - to first female Chair of the Chamber of Commerce in Chipping Norton and then Town Mayor and Atlantic Rower and holder of three Guiness World Records, Jan Meek has packed a lot into her life so far. I caught up with her in her home town of Richmond where she still spends time visiting friends and supporting The Victoria Foundation medical charity as an Ambassador.

regaled me with stories of China, Vikings in small boats and myths of the frozen north. Little did I know he was sowing the seeds of my future. He also passed down the family motto: If you want an interesting life, don’t ask why? Ask Why Not? This is my philosophy.”

What has been your most rewarding adventure to date?

“Rowing across the Atlantic with my son. I was widowed at 47, I truly believed all that was sweet and exciting in my life was in the past. Then I received a call from my son: “Mum, how would

Your life reads like an exciting novel of a heroine’s adventures around the world. Have you always been this adventurous?

“It’s in the genes. My grandfather worked as a journalist for the League of Nations, travelling three times round the world. He settled in Sweden and as a child I spent my summer holidays with him sailing round the Baltic. He

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you like to spend Christmas in Barbados?” Before I could reply he continued: “Just one snag, we have to row there!” - his way of asking me to be his partner in this incredible adventure. We rowed 101 days in a 23 ft. rowing boat.

We saw beautiful dawns, sunsets, three moons from new to full, encountered dolphins, whales, experienced diverse weather conditions; seas so smooth we called them Lake Atlantic days, enormous Atlantic rollers, force nine gales with gigantic waves tossing our small boat around like a cork. We rowed two hour shifts for 24 hours; one rowed the other crashed out in the cabin. Rowing

inspiring woman during the night, under skies so full of stars, I swear there was no room for even one more; I re-lived the dreadful months of my husband’s cancer and came to terms with my widowhood.

Once home I felt ready to face the world again with renewed energy and purpose. I also found a new career; being asked to share this adventure and future ones led to me becoming a professional speaker.”

I’ve heard you are planning another challenging trip again? Can you tell us about that?

“After that momentous adventure, ten years later my son joined me for ‘The Hardest Race in the World’ – trekking 400 miles from Resolute Bay to the Magnetic North Pole, temperatures as low as -67° the worst weather conditions for 40 years, I was invited to return to the ice the following year to join Sir David Hempleman-Adams on an expedition to the Geographic North Pole.

Whenever I relate my arctic adventures I am asked: Which is the most beautiful, which is the most hazardous, North or South Pole?

I wanted to know how the two Poles compare.

Reading everything I could get my hands on about Scott and Shackleton. I discovered a wonderful man called Tom Crean, who went on two expeditions with Scott and one with Shackleton, an unsung hero. When told by Scott he was not part of the final South Pole team, he wept.

Our plan is to take five women to the South Pole to complete the 170 miles denied to Tom Crean.

The team will be made up of women of different ages and nationalities; we hope to make it more relevant by undertaking medical tests during the journey. All the work on measuring physical and mental stress under extreme conditions so far has been done on men, so part of what we want to do is measure how our team of women recover both physically and mentally from the daily hardships.”

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CROWN ROAD HIGH STREET Sunninghill’s Best Kept Secrets

~ St Margarets’ own village high street

W

alking down Crown Road is like visiting a pretty village but with a busy buzz about it. You will still find your butcher and a baker here, as well as other traditional businesses, happily coexisting with trendy cafés and boutiques.

Holly Tucker MBE, founder of Holly & Co, co-founder of notonthehighstreet.com and Chair of the St Margarets Traders Association speaks for the business owners: "We're incredibly proud of the fact that St Margarets is made up of primarily independent businesses, it gives St Margarets its unique village feel. Our annual Summer Street Party (complete with a road covered in grass!) and magical Christmas Fair, which takes place on Sunday 10 December, really brings our close-knit community together.”

Zoran's Delicatessen A great place for breakfast and lunch with the best coffee in St Margarets, as rated by the regulars. Zoran's serves the sort of remarkable food you'd expect to see in London's finest restaurants but at neighbourhood prices – eat in or takeaway. Open 7 days a week. Zoran himself will happily offer advice and assistance if you are planning a dinner party.

External events are catered for. And don’t forget the extremely well stocked deli.

10 Crown Road | 020 8892 0001 facebook.com/zoransdelicatessen

Vintage & Velvet A hunter-gatherer of quirky all-sorts, owner Amanda aims to provide an inspirational, eclectic selection of vintage furniture, homewares, decorative items, toys and unforgettable mid-century fabrics. Christmas time is especially magical as the shop fills with gorgeous vintage mercury glass decorations, glistening lustres, colourful wooden nutcrackers, wrapping paper and some great gifts too. Closed to hunt for stock Mondays and Tuesdays. Open Wednesday 1 – 6, Thursday to Saturday 10 – 5 and selected Sundays 12 – 4 (please call ahead to check).

8 Crown Road | 0208 892 3795 or 07766 496691 | vintageandvelvet.co.uk

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CROWN ROAD HIGH STREET Sunninghill’s Best Kept Secrets Antony Roberts Highly successful, independent estate agency established in 1996 with a fine reputation for results and service. Our respective St Margarets Sales & Lettings Managers, Mike Taylor and Stephanie Vassar, together with their welcoming teams, look forward to assisting current and prospective residents with their property searches and plans for an onward move.

44 Crown Road | 020 8891 3209 stmargarets@antonyroberts.co.uk

St Margarets Wines Enthusiastic, expert advice and information is offered as soon as you step into this lovely wine shop which stocks an extensive selection of handpicked wines from co-operatives as well as single estates from both the old and new regions. Whether you are after an easy drinking red or white or a deeper, full bodied boulder flavour, or are looking for a perfect bubbly of Cava, Champagne or Prosecco, our selection will provide you with choices to suit your palate. They also stock a great selection of local gins and spirits from far corners of the world and a great selection of fine snacks and foods to accompany your tipple.

40 Crown Road | 0208 892 2505 / 07803 147927 stmw.co.uk

Wines come from New Zealand, France, South Africa, Spain, Chile, Italy, Argentina, Romania and Australia. Orders accepted by phone or email.

Grounded Offering the "finest cup in the Borough" since 2011, Grounded is an independent, community-focussed cafe, set in the heart of St Margarets. Offering only the finest artisanal pastries, and baristamade Monmouth coffees, it was voted one of the top five spots for a delicious flat white or a luxurious espresso by discerning locals.

Why not come and enjoy a hand-crafted coffee or a delicious weekend brunch the next time you're passing through?

39 Crown Road | 020 70182126 / 0775 8397027 Facebook: groundedcoffee

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Skinglow Beauty Clinic The clinic specialises in advanced facials and Tetyana has helped women fall in love with their skin for over 20 years.

Her treatments begin with an in-depth consultation. Working with the latest pharma-cosmeceutical skin care products, Tetyana will advise on facial treatments and a home care system that is unique to you. Her knowledge with skin nutrition will give you the best possible results when treating conditions from ageing, hyperpigmentation, rosacea and acne.

16 Bridle Lane, just off Crown Road | skinglowbeauty.co.uk | 07787 312 731

The Secret Wardrobe This lovely boutique is a treasure trove of pre-loved designer clothing, shoes and accessories. Having evolved from a pop-up shop to an established boutique, the staff are helpful, friendly and always on hand for any fashion dilemmas!

The stock changes regularly and is chosen carefully for its style and quality. Labels include Joseph, Malene Birger, DVF, Max Mara and Jimmy Choo. There is a range of new jewellery and scarves available, perfect for a little gift!

22 Crown Road, St Margarets 020 8892 9492 secretwardrobeclothing.co.uk

The Bead and Jewellery Shop The shop has been serving customers in St Margarets and beyond since 1988.

There is a pretty range of scarves and jewellery for sale and a large selection of beads, tools and findings.

Alice also makes fused glass jewellery which sells in the shop and at selected craft events.

A popular repair and restringing service is available and free estimates given.

95 Crown Road | 020 8891 4920 thebeadandjewelleryshop.com

Lamb Personnel Lamb Personnel Ltd was founded in early 2007 & started off in Richmond High Street predominantly placing Secretaries & PAs into permanent roles within the local area. Over the last 10 years the business has evolved and moved to larger premises in Crown Road, St Margarets, grown the team to 6 staff and now place temporary, contract & permanent staff across a range of office support roles as well as more senior and specialist roles, within the Surrey, Middlesex and West London areas.

Lamb Personnel Ltd prides itself on providing a consultative, honest & ethical approach when dealing with all clients and candidates and our team are close knit, professional and incredibly friendly to deal with!

80 Crown Road | 020 8894 1723 / 07803327807 | lambpersonnel.co.uk

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SCHOOLS in focus KING'S HOUSE SCHOOL Boys' prep school ages 4-13 (girls in Nursery) The academic side underpins the education here, with the emphasis on the core areas in the early years spreading to an increasing range of subjects by the top end of the School. Most of their boys move on to top academic schools afterwards. King’s House is a lively, busy, happy place where their pupils thrive. They aim to offer a broad education to all pupils, enabling them to develop their academic, social, sporting and artistic attributes. This breadth and balance on offer is one of the strengths of the School. kingshouseschool.org

Visitor Mornings Please contact the Registrar, Mrs S Bass for details of forthcoming mornings bass@kingshouseschool.org or 020 8940 1878

"Throughout the School, pupils are extremely well educated and highly successful in their learning across all subjects and activities. The School successfully fulfils its aims to enable all pupils to develop their academic, social, sporting and artistic attributes." ISI Report 2016

NEWLAND HOUSE SCHOOL Co-educational school from 3 to 13 years Building on the success of the new Pre-Prep which opened last September, Newland House in Twickenham, is opening a nursery school this year to provide pupils with a natural and seamless introduction to starting school.

The School is co-educational from 3 to 13 years and is very experienced in providing a broad curriculum that helps pupils reach their full potential and encourages learning at a comfortable and appropriate pace. Entry to Reception is non-selective. Pupils have excellent academic outcomes, gaining scholarships and awards at top Senior Schools. Traditional standards are important and the school’s excellent pastoral provision nurtures individual development and a strong sense of community. newlandhouse.net

Welcome Mornings:

Friday 22 September, Friday 3 November and Friday 1 December Call to book your place or to make an individual appointment to see the school 020 8865 1305/admissions@newlandhouse.net

OLD VICARAGE SCHOOL Richmond’s only independent preparatory school for girls, 4 - 11 years With non-selective entry in Reception, superbly resourced classrooms, excellent teaching and small class sizes the school has created an environment in which girls of all abilities can thrive. It’s a happy place where their pupils love attending school.

Their experienced and inspirational staff encourage selfesteem and give them a strong educational foundation. The Old Vicarage reports outstanding academic achievements and are equally proud of the all round education the girls receive in music, drama, arts and sport. The extracurricular subjects are key in developing confidence, self-discipline and respect for others.

Open Morning: Friday 6th October, tours at 9am and 10am.

Please contact the school to book a tour: oldvicarageschool.com/admissions

Find the best fit for YOUR child ST CATHERINE'S SCHOOL Twickenham - girls 3 -18 A Catholic school warmly welcoming girls of all faiths.

St Catherine’s commitment to an all-round education demands a proper balance of work and play. Extra-curricular activities, therefore, play a significant role in the life of the school and the school advocates team play as it strengthens pupils’ sense of self and responsibility and helps equip them for life beyond school and education.

While academic success is a high priority, nurturing a culture of creativity, which helps to develop self-expression as well as providing pleasure and enjoyment, is very important too. stcatherineschool.co.uk

Open events:

Sixth Form - Wednesday 13th September, 6:15pm Senior open evening - Tuesday 26th September, 10am Year 2 activities morning and Prep open morning - Saturday 30th September, 10am

THE MALL SCHOOL The Mall is an independent day school in Twickenham for boys age 4+.

We are non-selective at entry into Reception and hold an assessment for entry into other year groups, including our intake into Year 3 (7+) where we expand to three forms per year. Our boys go on to a range of senior schools including St Paul’s, KCS and Hampton and after 2019 all boys will leave at the end of Year 6.

Open Days:

Wednesday 20 September, 9.00am Saturday 7 October, 9.30am - 12.00pm Tuesday 31 October - 7+ entry only, 9.30am Wednesday 8 November - 4+ entry only, 9.00am Please email admissions@themallschool.org.uk to book your place. themallschool.org.uk

TWICKENHAM PREPARATORY SCHOOL boys aged 4-13 and girls aged 4-11 Each pupil is given the opportunity to fully develop his or her talents in a supportive environment with an inclusive approach to both work and play where everyone has the chance to perform in music, drama or sport for one of the school teams. Offering a broad curriculum, excellent pupil/teacher ratio, good facilities, their pupils achieve excellent academic results. The school strongly believes in praise and the celebration of success.

Pre-Prep Open Mornings

Thur 12th October 2017 & Thur 8th February 2018 9.30 – 10.45am (A whole school Open Day will be held in May).

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schools in the news

NEW NURSERY at Newland House

N

ewland House School is building on the success of the recent completion of the dynamic new Pre-Prep school with the announcement of the opening of a new nursery school this September.

The nursery will provide a seamless, natural entry point for children prior to starting at the Pre-Prep and Prep School. Based within the former Pre-Prep premises on Waldegrave Park, the nursery is conveniently located to benefit from the existing, extensive educational facilities and offers an enviable outdoor learning environment. The building was subject to complete refurbishment only a few years ago and is now being appropriately modified to provide two spacious and stimulating classrooms offering direct outdoor access.

The nursery is term-time only and will be open five days per week to complement the Pre-Prep and Prep school day for children aged 3 to 4 years.

Children join the nursery in the September following their third birthday which is the year prior to joining Reception. The nursery is underpinned by the school’s distinctive and unique brand, offering a gentle, stimulating and balanced introduction to starting school.

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Within our nursery, children benefit from our proven expertise and passionate, supportive and individual teaching approach. Our nursery provides them with time to explore, discover and grow whilst becoming accustomed to everyday routines within a safe and nurturing environment. Our philosophy and aims are centred on the following values; Discover: we believe that creativity is fundamental to children’s discovery of the world around them.

Nurture: we provide sensitive, high quality care to ensure that our children feel nurtured and free to learn in a compassionate and secure environment.

Enchant: we fully embrace the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum to ensure that children learn creatively, physically and socially, and enjoy exploring and learning about their world.

Amaze: we promote curiosity and a sense of wonder throughout the curriculum by providing children with time to explore, delve and investigate how things work.

Find out more from admissions@newlandhouse.net newlandhouse.net | 020 8865 1305

wellbeing promotion

STRESSING about the new SCHOOL YEAR?

Lou Tassell

to your children that it is 3 Explain normal to feel anxious or nervous, you sometimes feel like this too but you can show them how to feel better

3

T

ake a deep breath and learn a few simple things that will help the whole family to a more stress-free start to a new school year.

This can be a stressful time for the whole family. There will be school matters that are new and challenging to you and will fuel your stress and anxiety. Stress is contagious which makes things even more challenging for parents.

Children pick up on your feelings and you pick up on theirs!

You know what to put in their lunchbox and what uniform to buy, but how can you cope with stress and help your child

deal with their anxieties about going back to school for a new year?

Having a few key emotional freedom techniques on hand can be a huge help. You and your child have Superpowers in your fingers - literally!

Using Emotional Freedom Techniques, also called Tapping Therapy can help shift and reduce unhelpful emotions until you or your child feel calmer. If you’re watching sport on the television, you’ll often notice many athletes ‘tapping’ to control emotions, now you can too, wherever you are.

Ask your children to tell you the biggest emotion they are feeling about going back to school e.g. fear or worry and get them to describe where they feel this most in their body

to your children how they 3 Talk want to feel about going back to school e.g. calm or confident doing breathing exercises 3 Start together - breathe in deeply and have one hand with the palm upwards. With the other hand use three fingers to tap gently on the middle area of your wrist about two fingertips width down from the bottom of your hand. in positive feelings like 3 Breathe calmness and breathe out negative emotions like stress. headache too? A quick 3 Stress way to help a headache (and stress) is to rub the pad of the thumb with your other hand.

To help support your family’s wellness, contact Lou Tassell at Optimal Vitality.

Appointments available in Richmond, New Malden and Surbiton.

Mention Darling Magazine to receive a special offer individual 1-hour wellness review for £65 or a 1.5 hour family review for £85. optimalvitality.co.uk | 07966 502611

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schools in the news tennisonproperty.com

Schools in the news is sponsored by

darling

new schoolNEW CHALLENGES 26/01/2017 11:47

NEW YEAR

S

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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legal promotion

How can you support your child with their

Educational Needs?

A n Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP) is a legally binding document produced, maintained and funded by your Local Authority.

It is used to support children and young people with Special Educational Needs (SEN) from the age of 0 – 25.

If your child or young person has difficulty accessing the curriculum at his/her school, and requires provision above that usually provided, they may require an EHCP. The process starts with an EHC needs assessment, which can be requested by the school or parents. The Local Authority then decides whether or not to carry out an assessment. If they agree, your child or young person will be seen by professionals and specialists to assess their needs and ascertain what provision they require to support their access to education.

Some children will already be in possession of a Statement of SEN. This will now need to be converted to an EHCP and the process should mirror that of an assessment.

Once an assessment has taken place, the Local Authority makes

a decision as to whether or not to issue an EHCP. If your child needs specialist support, therapy, or 1:1 support, it is likely that an EHCP is required.

An EHCP should be specific and quantified, so ambiguous phrases should not be included, for example “up to…” or “access to…” are not specific enough, nor quantifiable. You should be fully involved in the process, including the drafting stage of the EHCP. When an EHCP is finalised, the Local Authority must name a school placement or type. This, again, requires your involvement and you should work together to identify the school that meets your child’s needs.

Ultimately, the Local Authority is responsible for funding the entirety of the EHCP, including school placement.

All Local Authority decisions (whether to carry out an assessment, whether to issue an EHCP, the contents of the EHCP, and the school named) can be appealed to the SEN Tribunal if you disagree and don’t believe they are providing the support your child needs in order to access the curriculum.

It is important to have a full understanding of the legal principles and seek specialist legal advice in respect of any appeal to the SEN Tribunal in order to ensure that the judge is provided with the relevant evidence and the legal issues arising are fully considered.

Erin Smart, Solicitor, Moore Blatch LLP | 023 8071 8101 erin.smart@mooreblatch.com mooreblatch.com/education

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arts

Challenging stereotypes through

THEATRE

“I

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Photography by Asma Salman Saleem

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

health

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

C

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

politics

21st century politics

Why women's equality is good for MEN too

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

T

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

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

AUTUMN 2017 darlingmagazine.co.uk

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

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

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

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

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

networking promotion

The Really Helpful Club Your Mary Poppins bag of EVERYTHING YOU NEED Sarah Austin and Caroline Edwards

T

he Really Helpful Club is a free, online community that brings together positive, like-minded people, to help and connect one another in our personal and business lives.

With thousands of members the network is buzzing.

“The RHC site is my ‘go to place’ whenever I want a reliable recommendation.

I found a great cycle store through the site. I love the events and have met some really interesting people.”

Dominique H, RHC member You can find or give recommendations on anything: from help with childcare or an elderly

parent, to sourcing a reliable plumber, caterer, interior designer and much more. You can share ideas on where to go on holiday or what to do next in your career. We all value advice from our friends and this is what RHC is all about. The RHC Directory contains only recommended businesses, the gems of this trusted community.

In addition, the RHC runs events on valuable topics for its members, from cooking demonstrations and workshops on internet safety to seminars that help people return to work or start a business.

“The RHC can help individu-

als explore new ideas and possibly introduce them to a new path in their lives.”

Jen C, RHC member Responding to demand, the RHC is excited to announce its women’s health programme, starting with The Hot Flush! a workshop to help women prepare for and manage the menopause.

Also in the diary are a series of half-term courses to prepare children for their 11+ exams.

The RHC Back-to-Work programme recognises that there is a growing pool of talented, well educated women who leave the workplace to raise a family and then lack the opportunity that utilises their skills and fulfils their ambitions.

“Taking those first steps can be daunting and our events help our members to find the new role that suits them and to access a wealth of knowledge, experience and support”, explain RHC Founder Sarah Austin and Caroline Edwards, who runs the RHC events “It is hugely rewarding to see the difference that we are making” Join RHC for free to be part of this exciting community: reallyhelpfulclub.com

darlingmagazine.co.uk AUTUMN 2017 19

women womenat atwork work

SexCity in the

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

T

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

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

Being a woman in finance is certainly challenging. From

20 20

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

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

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

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

shop local

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

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

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

Embracing

A

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

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

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

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

At a client meeting, when he inadvertently and very

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

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

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

CHANGE – Shifting careers for a happier future

by Marja-Leena Toseland

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

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

SexCity in the

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

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

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

Sex City

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

in the

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

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hether you’re a gym bunny or starting from scratch use the most natural exercise machine… your own bodyweight!

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Lunges x 20 – Standing step forward with one leg until back knee touches floor. Stand up pushing weight through heel of front foot. Alternate legs.

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hips behind as if sitting in a chair. Keep knees over feet and back straight. Stand up with weight through heels.

Pushups x 20 – Lie on floor with hands shoulder width apart and level with shoulders. Rest on toes keeping body and back straight. Bend elbows to lower chest to floor. Breathe out and push up to straighten arms. If necessary, start with knees on floor and progress to feet. Repeat circuit for 10 – 15 minutes. info@thehealthygirl.co.uk hehealthygirl.co.uk/shop

health & wellbeing promotion

OSTEOPATHY How can it help you?

Find out what it really entails

Claire Slater and Nicolette Richardson

addition we offer other services including physiotherapy, traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture and pediatric osteopathy. Not only do we treat injuries, but we also offer personal training sessions, whether for rehab or recovery, or to improve your overall health and wellbeing.

How could a treatment help you?

A treatment with us will leave you feeling more supple, reducing both your pain and stress levels. A large portion of a treatment includes massage leaving you feeling invigorated.

W

e get asked on a regular basis what Osteopathy is, the word itself is fairly misleading as it refers to bones. Most people would understandably presume that an osteopath mostly treats injuries of the bones. However, this is far from the truth as Osteopaths treat the body as a unit and we are well regarded for treating muscles, joints, ligaments and connective tissue injuries.

What do we do?

Osteopaths focus on improving the health and wellbeing of an individual by assessing, diagnosing and treating injuries through a wide variety of techniques by moving, massaging, stretching and manipulating restricted joints.

What do we treat?

Whilst we are well known for treating back pain and postural problems, we also see a lot of sporting injuries, from runners and cyclists to rugby players and rowers. In addition, we can also help mums and babies with digestive and sleeping difficulties.

Why choose Richmond Osteopaths?

All of our practitioners are qualified osteopaths. In

Richmond Osteopaths is open 7 days a week, 12 hours a day to ensure we cater for your lifestyle and work schedules. We treat all types of injuries and provide maintenance and preventative treatment to keep your body in tip top condition.

Claire and Nicolette have been running Richmond Osteopaths for over 7 years and during this time have seen the practise grow from strength to strength.

5a-7a Golden Court Richmond TW9 1EU 020 8948 7171 richmondosteopaths.co.uk

health

Let's talk about

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

I

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

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

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

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

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AUTUMN 2017 darlingmagazine.co.uk

Nadine Coull Consultant Urologist

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

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

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

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

mental health

couch with Dr De-Stress On the

Dr Mariette Jansen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Not sleeping well? No control? Powerless?

Too much work and not enough fun?

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

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

Visit drdestress.co.uk or call 07967

717131 today! darlingmagazine.co.uk AUTUMN 2017 25

Private Personal Assistant

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

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

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

fashion promotion

Are YOU loving the fabric?

Gay Appleby’s unique fabric boutique Gay Appleby

T

housands of people in Britain are taking a new or renewed interest in making their own clothes. This could be due to the sustainability and up-cycling movements, or simply the satisfaction provided by receiving a compliment on a beautiful self-made garment.

Whatever the reason, the mission of Gay Appleby’s boutique, loving the fabric, is to help people interested in this movement to “sew beautiful things”.

Located “on the hill” in Richmond and opening just late last year, the boutique occupies a space that was originally a chemists, with a charming round

window and original detailed tile work on the exterior. When you walk in the door, it’s as if you have entered a fashion designer, or textile artist’s studio.

Gay is constantly on the lookout for beautiful fabric and she has filled her shop with a unique collection of her finds from all over the world. Primarily stocked with beautiful prints on fabric woven from natural fibres silk, cotton, linen, wool - across a rainbow of colours. But there are also beautiful ribbons and trims, a wide assortment of unusual buttons and other items to inspire your creativity.

of a piece of fabric are as important as they way it looks. As a result, she does not currently offer her fabric for sale online. That’s a good thing, because Gay’s artistic and fashion perspective is clearly present in loving the fabric, and this alone makes a great reason to visit to the shop. loving the fabric also supports sewing and fashion enthusiasts by offering a variety of sewing lessons during the day and special evening events on a monthly basis through the academic year.

The shop is at 64 Hill Rise in Richmond lovingthefabric.com

Sewing, textiles and fashion have been Gay’s life long passion.

After studying Art History at university, traveling extensively in France, Britain and Italy in the process, she eventually settled in Britain, and while raising three children developed a “make do and mend” resourcefulness, indulging in her passion for vintage textiles and fashion. Gay later trained as a Design & Technology teacher, which led to positions teaching Art History and Textiles/Fashion and has given her a unique and eclectic vision.

Gay believes the feel and drape

darlingmagazine.co.uk AUTUMN 2017 27

fashion

Back to WORK

Justine Elton

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

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

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

Karen Millen Super Frill Cotton Shirt, Navy £115

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

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

Oasis Skinny Metallic Snake Belt, Gold £14

Samsoe & Samsoe Marnis blouse £59.95

Sartorial 8-row silver colour necklace £12.50

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

Dune Bayly Stiletto Heeled Court Shoes, Blue £85

AUTUMN 2017 darlingmagazine.co.uk

Hush Savannah black lace top £65

Sartorial cuff bracelet £11.50

Amishi Statement necklace available at Sartorial £110

Whistles Plain Woven Scarf, Yellow £45

Statement earrings £9.50 & necklace £16.50 available at Sartorial

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

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

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

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

Toast Herringbone Khadi top, off white £165

Oasis Faux Leather Chevron Mini Skirt Black £36

Modern Rarity Paper Bag Trousers, Navy , £120

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

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

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

dance

Mrs Bennet's

Ballroom

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

By Rosy Jones

I

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

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

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

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

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

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

30

AUTUMN 2017 darlingmagazine.co.uk

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

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

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

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

I

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

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

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

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

by Anne O’Neil McTear

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

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

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

Tickets from teddington800.org.uk.

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

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

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

If you’re not completely exhausted

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

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

On the scene On the scene

With editor Marja-Leena Toseland With editor Marja-Leena Toseland

THE VICTORIA FOUNDATION SUMMER PARTY

THE GRAND EXHIBITION OF VIEWS AT THE STAR AND GARTER, RICHMOND HILL

Jay Dhanecha and Anne Newton, CEO Richmond Chamber of Commerce Caroline Edwards, Lynne Harrison, Mary Sini and Sarah Austin

Sarah Varsha Astoan Bhatia, andartist Jadeby Parker, her painting Richmond and Dorothy RUNFEST Cassidy Tasmeen Mulhall, Linda Duberley, Jan Meek and Christian Howgill Irene and Ian Gaunt, Richard and Vicky Peirson, Anette Cruiziat and Marie F Turner

THE RETREAT KITCHEN (HILL RISE) LAUNCH PARTY NOT JUST POLITICS...IN TWICKENHAM

Janson Johnson and Helen Brabbs, Tasleem Mulhall Adam Lawrence, (CEO of London Square), Graham Ball (Chair of The Sarah Malcolm, Maggie Nuttall Lynne Harrison, Victoria Foundation) and Linda Duberley (Ambassador(co-owner), for the foundation) Jenna Hope and Yasmin Muswell

Marja-Leena Toseland, Nathiell Ikeazor Michelle Johnson (HELLO!Magazine), Nick (Conservative Party, Ward) and Knowles (co-owner) andHampton Belinda Robey Jayne Robinson Stuart Luck and our editor (HELLO! Magazine)

POSH MUM CLUB LUNCH AT THE IVY CAFE BODY FIRST IN HAMPTON HILL OPENED ITS DOORS IN STYLE

Sahar Arfeen (Chair of Posh Mum) and Abigail VanderplankLesley Markhama dn Jones Nicola Miles, Kate McGill and Justine Hales (Curves Claiire Langdon (coMike Markham, Ollie Sharepe, Maggie Nuttall and Hampton and Teddington) Body First founder, Liz Tough with clinic staff and Richmond FC team members Mary Sini and Isabel Neuwirth owner) Hannah Rogers

Marja-Leena Toseland and Holly Tucker (Holly& Co., key speaker) Jo Shaw and Rae Cameron

Sarah Atherfold, Charlotte Dawson and Zukeat Nazar Crystel Silver and Jenny Freeman

Steph Douglas (Don't Buy Her Flowers, key speaker), Sahar Arfeen, Svetlana Tretilova and Sara Siddiqui Cllr Mark Boyle, Liz Tough and Cllr Kate Howard, Deputy Mayor

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

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

WHAT'S HOT

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

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

Nicky Williams , Jumblebee and Lorna Votier, The Victoria Foundation

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Lucy Razveeva, Susi Senny, Seena Parsaei, Ingrid Louise Claremont, Julia Jones (Iceland ScottTorr and (our Afsaneh Mohammati Anu WestHelen (our designer) Teresa Nina Haydon, Olivia Sandra FlatteryNardi and (Lady W Victoria Bell,Sanders, Karine publisher), Traveller), Mcguire (RunningFit) and and Cythare Mariette Jansen aka and Dr De-Stress Kingston), Peter Gilbert Bogdan Moran Yvonne Peach Cooper (our photographer)

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MAX MARA

Pamela Gregory (Hannibal Brown), Joshfrom ReadPearson and Claire Darby and Emma Rothstein (both Judy King Hards Solicitors) and Carmen Osman (Active8 Managed Technologies)

Marja-Leena Toseland and Paula Trovalusci Zara Elliott and Malory Torr

BHUTI IN RICHMOND HILL - FIRST BIRTHDAY SPA-TO-GO GIRLS' NIGHTPARTY IN WITH TEMPLE SPA'S CATHERINE SHYJKA

Our tipple of choice. Rock & Rose Martini.

ROCK & ROSE RESTAURANT Cashmere Gauzy Knit Poncho, £72.

FIG CASHMERE

Chic riverside hotel.

THE BINGHAM HOTEL Emily Brett with Dame Vivienne Westwood Samantha Trinder (founder of bhuti) with Dame Photos

by Barney James, SilverHeartPictures Vivienne Westwood Leoni Wright and Mariette Neta Tully, Jackie Wallace, Ruth Baker, Anu West (Darling designer), Jansen Catherine Shyjka, Liisa Stuart, Linda Sawyer and Coral Hill

ladywimbledon.com

TEDDINGTON FAIR AND PRAM RACE

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

Lensbury stand: Ray and Georgina Harlow with Neil Hall

Teddington Theatre Club: Gemy McGarthy and Lottie Walker

Teddington Dance Studio Katie Lewis and Natalie Bolinfbroke

Jay Bell and Anne O'Neil McTear

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

Richmond Practice: Silvia Leiros and Rosa Avino

Landmark Arts Centre: Sian Morgan and Lesley Bossiane

THE EYE BALL AT RICHMOND HILL HOTEL

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

Want to be seen?

Martin Ward, Paul Adaway and Natasha Mohabir

Charles and Sue Conder

The histo

PHOTOGRAPHER ANNIE ARMITAGE CELEBRATED 10 YEARS IN BUSINESS

Marja-Leena Toseland and Miss Balloonverse

Sian Bradshaw, Kish Modasia, Rachel Barclay, Lucinda Payton-Jones, Annie Armitage and Maureen Osbourne

BRIAN FERRY AT HAMPTON COURT FESTIVAL

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

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

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

Chris Jones, Director and Don McVey, Director of Photography

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

Vanessa Bailey with our editor

AT ROCK & ROSE COCKTAILS AND FOOD TASTING

Emma Welsh, KKCommunications and Marie Sheffield, Ms Food Blogger

Alex Maaroufi, Marja-Leena, Lucy (London Top Eats), Emma Welsh, Andy and Marion Barnham(Riddle Magazine)

Marja-Leena and Lorraine Angliss, founder of Rock & Rose

CROWN ROAD SUMMER FAIR, ST MARGARETS

INTERNATIONAL YOUTH ARTS FESTIVAL, IYAF - PROGRAMME LAUNCH PARTY ATand ROSE THEATRE Marja- Leena Toseland Kate

Poxton, Cutters

Amanda Wilkinson, Vintage & Velvet

Andy Currums, Festival Director,

Robin Hutchinson MBE and Geoffrey Godbold OBE TD DL

Lyes Ghezzou, Djamel Achiou and Soprinye Fasakin

Angellica Bell, Sir Jeremy James Taylor and Michael Underwood

James Morton, singer

COOMBE RESIDENTAL'S OPEN EVENING, BY RICHMOND PARK

Lotta from Stockholm : Lotta and Emma Sky Grania Young (Darling Ascot Aniela Zaba , Creative Sรถderholm with designer)Josie and MikeHarness Seigal Youth ,with her brother

Ellen Wainer, Delyth Wainer and Jules Morgan, St Stephen's Church Peter and Diana Butler

Mel Coleman, Lynda Leith and Hani Madanat, founder of Coombe Residential

Armstrong's Butchers: Ashley Barnham and Darron Armstrong

THE DECORCAFร FESTIVAL, STRAWBERRY HILL HOUSE TWICKENHAM

TWICKENHAM CHURCH STREET WENT GREEN

Guy Bristow and Andrew Hall (MD) from Woodstock Furniture

Debbie Blott, Neomi Cullan and Sally Bucquet

Jo Senior, owner and Grace Marshall; Mojo Kate Brookes (Momentum Children's Charity) and Nikki Howard

Vicky Horder, Undercover Badger

Diana Tsung, Veronica and Tony Kerslake with Jacci Watson

Kate Winskill, 1of1 Design and Raph Thomas, artist Emma Mitchell and Debbie Blott,

Joyce Craveiro and Kirsty McMorron from Absolute Abode with Marie F Turner, artist

Julie Sherldrock, Allison's Attick

founders of DecorCafe

Bo Lennartsson and Ben Tribe; Tribe Design

Twickenham Beekeepers: Juli Hill, Claude Guillaume

Sophie King, The Bloomery

charity

Lunch date in PRISON anyone?

W

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

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

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

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

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

by Marja-Leena Toseland

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

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

Justice Lab report shows “statisti-

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

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

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

darlingmagazine.co.uk AUTUMN 2017 37

Based in South West London, David Hur Design offers a complete interior design service from contemporary through to classic. Handmade furniture, upholstery, kitchens, curtains, carpeting and decorating. We understand our clients’ needs to create tranquil yet practical solutions for everyday living.

DAVID HUR DESIGN 020 8870 2041 www.davidhur.com 129 Granville Road London SW18 5SF

building promotion

DREAMING...

Keep on

L

ondon property has always been a sound investment and smart owners know that maximising their assets by expanding and updating their accommodation is still a smart choice even in these uncertain times.

Trendy Spaces is a South West London, family owned building and property renovation company with two decades of experience and an exceptional eye for detail.

Our team includes architects, project managers, builders and selected tradesmen who we know will deliver to the highest standards expected by us. This means all your project needs are seamlessly handled by us as we plan and organise everything, keeping you fully informed throughout.

Our finished projects are testament to our attention to detail and show our bespoke designs.

If you have already appointed an architect and are looking for a build team to deliver your project, we can help you there too.

It’s worth talking to us when you want to add style, value and extra space to your home.

“Barry's team did a great job in building a ground floor extension in our house. The team was very skilled, hard working and polite and we felt quite comfortable in engaging with them on all the aspects of the project. Although such projects can be stressful for homeowners, we were quite confident in their team's ability to build the extension to the spec we requested. The end result exceeded our expectations. We are happy to recommend the team to anyone undertaking a similar project.”

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We specialise in: Loft conversions

Whether for an extra bedroom, playroom, office or studio, loft space can be converted into something extraordinarily useful.

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From kitchens and bathrooms right through to full scale property renovations, our eye for detail can truly transform your space.

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darlingmagazine.co.uk AUTUMN 2017 39

furniture promotion

Accessing SOLUTIONS!

W

e are often asked about “difficult deliveries”, “tricky access” and “funny shaped spaces”.

Many customers believe their entrance restricts their furniture options, regardless of how large the actual room is.

Customised modular or sectional seating These are good options for most, as modules may be purchased in a variety of styles, shapes, sizes and heights, and ordered in any fabric or leather. Many easily convert into occasional sofa beds, making them extra flexible. Modules are compact enough to go through the tightest of access points.

A tip - if access is really challenging to work with, buy several smaller modules to bracket together instead of larger sections. This may be a bit more expensive but at least you know you’ll get the furniture in (and out again).

Bespoke options Most of our modules may be made to measure, assuming you know exactly what you want – in terms of seat comfort as well as style and size. Additionally, our British handcrafted models may be tailor-made and may be more keenly priced than you’d initially expect.

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If you’re looking for affordable quality upholstery, with plenty of choice, Seriously Sofas will be delighted to offer you interested, expert, advice and assistance. Please visit our website seriouslysofas.com, call us on 020 8549 1233 or pop in when you’re next in central Kingston.

Examples of previous customer commissions are published on our various Pinterest galleries: pinterest.com/seriouslysofas

Formerly Isleworth Baroque Presents Handel’s drama.c tragedy

Hercules

Fully staged with orchestra

On Friday 17th, Sat 18th And Sun 19th November at 7.30 pm

The Normansfield Theatre, Langdon Down Centre, TW11 9PS

Tickets £17 from 0333 1212 300 or online at www.langdondowncentre.org.uk

charity

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

N

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

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

I’m pleased to say that middle age doesn’t stop you from improving your performance. I’ve trained with a very motivating and knowledgeable running coach, Helen Maguire from RunningFit, who’s put me through my paces in our

by Marja-Leena Toseland

weekly sessions and has given me a training plan which I’ve tried to stick to as far as the runs at least, less so with the strength exercises although these are very important too.

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

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

For details of volunteering on 16th September contact The Victoria Foundation NOW – email enquiries@thevictoriafoundation.org.uk

To help The Victoria Foundation reach their fundraising target, you can sponsor me at richmondrunningfestivalhalfmarathon2017. everydayhero.com/uk/marja-leena

darlingmagazine.co.uk AUTUMN 2017 41

charity

Eye-watering sum raised at

O

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

Fight For Sight funds pioneering eye research at the UK’s hospitals and universities, allowing the brightest minds to further research into Stargardt’s and other eye disease, whether it is genetic or age related. Organised by four friends Anneke Heaton, Kriss Guest, Anya Milligan and Kirsty Perkins, the Eye Ball benefited enormously from the generosity and extraordinary kindness of a wide range of individual supporters as well as local restaurants and other businesses that provided a fabulous array of raffle and auction prizes ranging from restaurant and hotel experiences, fantastic holiday accommodation , a beekeeping experience, fine wine, concert and sporting tickets to name but a few.

Anneke and Graham Heaton with Kirsty Perkins

Guests enjoyed a drinks reception and three course dinner with wine. The host for the hugely successful evening was auctioneer and compere, Hugh Edmeades. Entertainment was provided by Magic Marco, with some great soul live music played by The Band. The evening ended with DJ Vernon Ray who kept the dancefloor packed all night. Many guests commented on the fantastic atmosphere. There was a lovely mix of the young and the slightly older. Dressed in Eye Ball branded T-shirts, approximately 20 local teenagers formed a fantastic team of volunteer helpers for the Eye Ball. They were delightful and effective in equal measure and a credit to their families and schools.

The Eye Ball raised a fabulous £36,400.40 for Fight For Sight and this will fund more than 6 months of reasearch, split equally into Stargardts and general eye disease research projects.

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

For more information on Fight For Sight visit fightforsight.org.uk

gardening column

BOX

therapy Garden in a mess?

I

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

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

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

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

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

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

 Call me!

© 2017 Valerie McBride-Munro

Your own Action Plan

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

make your garden flourish!

AUNTIE PLANTY Auntie Planty

expert garden advice Garden Advice Gift vouchers available

www.auntieplanty.co.uk Your plants in safe horticultural hands 020 8892 9243 • 07887 716 777

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

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

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

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

Treat your plants to a garden MOT! An eye-opening journey around your garden – you will be truly inspired!

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

What's ON? Ham Polo Club: Hunt Kendall Bowl Sun 10 Sept, 1-5pm An action-packed day of polo and games. £5, under 13s free.

Petersham Road, TW10 7AH hampoloclub.com Richmond Adult Community College Open evening Thu 14 Sept, 4-7pm Over 2000 courses to choose from Parkshot, Richmond, TW9 2RE racc.ac.uk River Invertebrates & Citizen Crane on the River Crane Sat 16 Sept, 10:30am–2:30pm Led by experts from the Zoological Society of London and FORC. Free force.org.uk/calendar/view Richmond Run Fest Sat 16 (10k) & Sun 17 (half and full marathons) Sept richmondrunningfestival.com Kew Gardens To run for the Victoria Foundation, a medical charity, go to thevictoriafoundation.org.uk Wine Lunch - A journey through the Gabiano Estate Wines, Piedmont, Italy Sat 30 Sept, 3-5pm. £80 Petersham Cellar, Petersham Nurseries Church Lane, off Petersham Road, TW10 7AB petershamnurseries.com/events Momentum children’s charity Cabaret & Cocktails Sat 7 Oct. Momentum Cabaret Lounge aka All Saints church in Kingston. Cocktails and a sumptuous buffet supper. Cabaret performance from Liza Pulman and her band The Stardust Ensemble.

7pm till midnight. £75 each or a table for £750.

Natalie at Momentum on 020 8974 5931 or natalie@moment-um.org The BIG Charity Comedy Show (in aid of Momentum children’s charity), Sun 8 Oct Alistair McGowan, Andy Hamilton, Robin Ince and Sara Pascoe from TV and the UK comedy circuit .

Rose Theatre, Kingston.

All Seats £18.00, Pit Cushions £8.00 rosetheatrekingston.org

Richmond Walking Tours Sat 7 Oct, 11am-1pm A grand tour of Richmond with a history lesson. Around £10 discoveryrichmond.com/tours/ walking-tours/richmond-walking-tour Fungi Walk along the River Crane Wed 18 Oct, 10–11:30am Learn about fungi from expert Andy Overall. Free. Shot Tower beside Crane Park, 3 minutes’ walk from Ellerman Avenue, TW2 6AA force.org.uk/calendar/view Shooting Star Chase: an evening of live stand-up comedy on behalf of the Children’s Hospice Wed 18 Oct, 8-11pm Sara Pascoe, Dominic Holland, Jamai Maddix, Luke Toulson £20. The Turk’s Head, Twickenham TW1 1LF October Half Term 2017 Living in Victorian Richmond Tue 24 to Friday 27 Oct, 10am-12pm Workshops at the Museum of Richmond for children aged 5-11 years old. £4 per child, booking essential, Whittaker Avenue, Richmond museumofrichmond.com THE 60s ALL STARS Featuring Kinks legend Mick Avory Sun 5 Nov, 8-10:30 pm One Kew Road , Richmond, TW9 2NQ Remembrance Day Sun 12 Nov Richmond War Memorial, Whittaker Avenue, Richmond, 10.40am.

Parade from the Old Deer Park at 10.15am + proceeds to Whittaker Avenue. Twickenham; march past of local organisations at the Service in Radnor Gardens. Service at the war memorial at 10.50am + refreshments at the Legion headquarters in Popes Grove.

Hampton; Service at the Methodist Church, Percy Road 10.30am, and parade at 12:15 to the Hampton war memorial cottages in Oldfield Road for wreath laying at 12:30.

National Archives, Kew Cromwell and Communications Tue 22 Nov, 2-4pm. National Archive experts explore key documents on communications in the reformation from medieval culture. Free.

National Archives, Kew, TW9 4DU nationalarchives.gov.uk/about/visitus/whats-on/events Richmond Theatre The Wipers Times 26 - 30 Sept Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat 10 - 14 Oct Gok Wan, Naked and Baring All Mon 13 Nov For full listing visit atgtickets.com/venues/richmondtheatre The Orange Tree Theatre Every Brilliant Thing 9 - 28 Oct Poison 2 Nov - 2 Dec For full listings visit orangetreetheatre.co.uk Teddington Theatre Club Tedd ington Theatre Club Under Milk Wood by Dylan Thomas Sun 17 Sep - Sat 23 Sep The Turn of the Screw by Henry James Sun 1 Oct - Sat 7 Oct Still Life & Red Peppers by Noel Coward Sun 19 Nov - Sat 25 Nov For full listings visit Hampton Hill Theatre teddingtontheatreclub.org.uk Sculpture Showcase and Arts Event Fri 3 - Sun 5 Nov, 10am - 5pm The Landmark Arts Centre Visitors are also able to see sculptures being created. surreysculpture.org.uk Evening Events at loving the fabric Noel Chapman, Designer Thursday September 21, 2017 Thomas von Nordheim Thursday, October 19, 2017 Sarah Campbell Designs Thursday, November 23, 2017 6:30pm reception + refreshments, talk 7:15-8:30pm loving the fabric 64 Hill Rise, Richmond TW10 6UB. lovingthefabric.com Ham Art Group autumn exhibition Sat 4 - Sun 5 Nov, 10am-4pm St Thomas Aquinas Church Hall Ham Street, Ham, TW10 7HT 020 8940 5725

bridge

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

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

EMAIL ‘My vision is to encourage more women to julie@theathenanetwork.com network and in turn realise their full potential The Great and Richmond Ham by helping inspiringRoad them Factory, and providing

75 Years building cars, lorries valuable connections’ , says Julieand aircraft HELPFUL WIMBLEDON WEBSITES Love Wimbledon WIMBLEDON, PUTNEY, BALHAM AND STREATHAM Historic photographs, slideshows & models, with guided tours of the original factory site www.lovewimbledon.org plus outside exhibits including a Hawker Hunter aircraft cockpit, a 1920s Trojan car and possibly a 1930s Leyland bus London Borough of Merton Julie Eltham www.merton.gov.uk YMCA Hawker Centre Regional Director, The Athena Network Lower Ham Road Kingston KT2 5BH Citizen’s Advice Bureau t: @athenaSWlondon Saturday 9 September 2pm to 8pm www.nacab.org.uk & f: TheAthenaNetworkSurrey&SWLondon Merton Chamber Commerce Sunday 10 of September 10am to 4pm 07890 523030 www.mertonchamber.co.uk Close to 65 and 371 bus routes between Kingston & Richmond Free parking e: julie.eltham@theathenanetwork.com Direct access from theCentre Thames Path and National Cycle Path Wimbledon Town www.wimbledontowncentre.co.uk w: theathenanetwork.co.uk/julieeltham The Hawker Association extends a special welcome to all ex-employees Meet up with old colleagues and bring your photographs for us to scan Wimbledon Civic Forum For news of the event visit www.kingstonaviation.org or www.hawkerassociation.org.uk www.wimbledoncivicforum.org.uk Wimbledon Society www.wimbledonmuseum.org.uk

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

www.volunteercentremerton.org.uk Learning & Skills Council www.lsc.gov.uk COLLECT COPIES AT OUR 'HOTSPOTS' Charity Commission Please call first to check stocks www.charitycommission.gov.uk Wimbledon Music Diary Coffeeology, 4 The Square, Richmond TW9 1DZ www.wimbledonmusicdiary.com Bridge exercises the mind and is a great 07741 311990 Wimbledon Choral Society way to meet new friends. www.wimbledon-choral.org.uk bhuti, 50 Hill Rise, Richmond TW10 6UB Come and see what the game involves Local Watch 0330 400Police/Neighbourhood 3108 at a free taster session. www.met.police.uk/saferneighbourhoods The Wimbledon Guild Esquires Coffee Beginner courses: small class sizes of up www.wimbledonguild.co.uk 37-39 King Street Parade, Twickenham, TW1 3SG Care Connect 020 8744 0353 to 8 students.

www.merton.gov.uk/living/care/careconnect Harris + Hoole www.centrecourtshopping.co.uk Improver classes also available.

24 King St, Twickenham TW1 3SN

020 8891 3212 IMPORTANT NUMBERS For details please contact Hilary on

Wimbledon Police St George’s Hospital Harris + Hoole 020 8947 1212 or (999) 020 8672 1255 135 St. Margarets Rd, St Margarets, TW1 1RG Merton Council Kingston Hospital candh12@aol.com 020 8891 6541 020 8274 4901 020 8546 7711 facebook: @hilarystewartbridgelessons NHS DIRECT National Rail Mr Mullan's General Store 22 Lindisfarne Road, SW20 0NW

0845 4647 484950 4 Friars Stile Road, Richmond 08457 Hill, TW10 6NE mrmullans.com

44 feb-march 2012 | darlingmagazine.co.uk

100 years after it was built and 25 years since it closed down you and your family are invited to the Richmond Road factory site in Kingston for a special free exhibition

th

th

Missing Your darling Magazine?

BRIDGE FOR

BEGINNERS

07816 982 030

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

COLLECT COPIES AT OUR “HOTSPOTS”

♠

♥

♦

♣

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

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

Please call first to check stocks

Dealer South N E 2H

NB

E/W Game S 1C 3NT

W 1S

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

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

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

darlingmagazine.co.uk AUTUMN 2017 45

point of view

Hate the rat race?

Then

WALK...

A

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

46

AUTUMN 2017 darlingmagazine.co.uk

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

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

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

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