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BLACK TO THE FUTURE:
THE BLACK EDITION PORSCHE 911 CARRERA BEDROCK OF A RACING LEGEND
Fuel consumption 911 Carrera Black Edition: Urban in l/100 km (mpg) 12.4 (22.8)-11.3 (25.0); Extra urban in l/100 km (mpg) 7.0 (40.4)-6.6 (42.8); Combined in l/100 km (mpg) 9.0 (31.4)-8.2 (34.4); CO2 emissions in g/km 211-191 www.porsche.com/uk/
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The Hannah Peschar
Sculpture Garden Open May to end of October 2015 Friday and Saturday 11am until 6pm Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday 2pm until 5pm By appointment only for groups of four or more on Tuesday to Thursday
General Admission £10 Adult £8 Concession £7 Child Admission by appointment £12
www.hannahpescharsculpture.com The Hannah Peschar Sculpture Garden, Black and White Cottage, Standon Lane, Ockley, Dorking, Surrey RH5 5QR
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June 2015
CREATIVITY It never ceases to amaze how creative the human spirit is: the vision some people have, coupled with the determination to realise an idea. Hannah Peschar and husband Anthony Paul have created a very special garden where nature truly meets art. Their fitting finale in their Sculpture Garden is a culmination of 40 years of endeavour and showcases over 140 works of art. This month travel writer Hanna Lindon goes for a ride on the beach on some marvellous heavy horses in Cumbria and India’s smallest and wealthiest state of Goa provides a glimpse of an exotic getaway, courtesy of Rebecca Underwood. Jaguar Land Rover has updated the Evoque Range Rover to stay ahead of the pack: the changes are small from the outside, but large on the inside. In addition, Anita Feron Clark offers some style advice for that allimportant hat for the summer season’s events and we have some sizzling fashion swimwear from New Zealand. The usual selection of the best in food, travel and events provides plenty to engage us all during the long summer days to come. The essence team
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Art
Broadleaved plants and mature trees support and frame a changing collection of contemporary sculpture in a stunning garden created by Hannah Peschar and her award-winning landscape designer husband Anthony Paul. A magical world awaits in Ockley.
Photography courtesy of Annie Rose
Motoring
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Euan Johns examines the ‘nip and tuck’ that the latest Jaguar Range Rover Evoque reincarnation has undergone in a bid to keep the baby marque ahead of the pack.
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Travel
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Hanna Lindon travels to Cumbria to the UK’s only specialist horse riding centre, and finds nothing compares to riding a heavy horse at speed along a beach. Giant-sized shire or Clydesdale horse hooves beating along the sand with black manes flying in the wind combine to make this an experience not to be missed.
Food
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Crates Local Produce chooses current seasonal offerings, including broad beans, herring, gooseberries and some hangover-free summer drinking in the form of Brighton Gin, with recipes to try and enjoy.
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Contents June 2015
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Style
Personal stylist Anita Feron Clark offers her guide to finding that all important accessory for the summer event season: the perfect hat.
26Fashion
Summer arrives courtesy of New Zealand’s premier swimwear brand Moontide and its new stylish and comfortable collection.
34Artisan food
Shirlee Posner sources local niche producers and introduces readers to model Surrey business, Village Greens, where the majority of products originate from within thirty miles of the shop.
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Legal
Eleanora Newbery, associate solicitor at Mundays, looks at the problems of a ‘do it yourself’ divorce and the pitfalls of using commonly available ‘off the shelf’ forms.
42Finance
Simon Lewis looks at the slowing Chinese economy and what this means to both China and the Rest of the World.
44Education
Michael Connolly, headmaster at Cranmore School, West Horsley, considers to what extent we should encourage children to take risks.
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Long haul
Rebecca Underwood travels to Goa, India’s smallest and wealthiest state, that attracts more than two million tourists each year to its beautiful beaches, sedate pace of life and World Heritage architecture.
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Photography
American photographer Tyler Shields’ new exhibition ‘Historical Fiction’ was shot in locations across the United States over a period of twelve months through to early 2015. The collection comprises large-scale, colour-saturated and black and white photographs of powerful interpretations of iconic moments in 1960s’ American political and pop culture history.
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Events
Linda Seward’s detailed diary of the best of what’s on in theatre, music, exhibitions, arts, sports and countryside over the coming weeks.
Property
With over a century of experience and more than fifteen years of construction in the UK, a new HUF HAUS show house at Brooklands marks a new era for the company as it aims to become the most engineered house in Britain.
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Antiques
Stephen Giles of auctioneers Fryer & Brown offers advice on pertinent questions to ask before purchasing jewellery.
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Restaurant review Andrew Peters takes a journey of discovery at Drake’s of Ripley where Steve and Serina Drake have continued to surprise with innovative menus for close on thirteen years, allowing us the chance to fall in love again with that seemingly neglected luxury, the long lunch.
essence team Acting Editor: Andrew Guilor Contributing Editor: Louise Alexander-O’Loughlin Publishing Manager: Rebecca Peters Production Manager: Linda Seward Designer: Sharon Smith Senior Designer: Jason Mayes, telephone: 01932 988677, email: editor@essence-magazine.co.uk Advertising Manager: Andrew Peters, telephone: 07980 956488, email: marketing@essence-magazine.co.uk Advertising Sales: telephone: 01932 988677 email: marketing@essence-magazine.co.uk Advertising Sales Executive: Nadine Schioldan, email: nadine@essence-magazine.co.uk Contributors: Hanna Lindon, Michael Connolly, Rebecca Underwood, Anita Feron Clark, Eleanora Newbury, Simon Lewis, PJ Aldred, Shirlee Posner, Jennifer Sutton, Naomi Diamond, Euan Johns, Andrew Peters, Stephen Giles
essence magazine Maple Publishing Limited, the publishers, authors and printers cannot accept liability for errors or omissions. Any artwork will be at owner’s risk. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the copyright holder and publisher, application for which should be made in writing to the publisher. The opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. essence is posted by Royal Mail to key addresses in Cobham, Oxshott, Esher, Weybridge, Guildford and outlying areas. Properties in all the major private estates, including St George’s Hill, the Crown Estate and Wentworth Estate, receive the magazine 10 times per year. essence is also distributed to selected estate agents and is available at city businesses, London hotels and Heathrow airport lounges. Design and production www.domino4.co.uk © Maple Publishing 2015
JUNE COVER ‘Totem Deities’ by Patricia Volk. Courtesy of The Hannah Peschar Sculpture Garden
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essence art
Art and nature
IN PERFECT HARMONY
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Broadleaved plants and mature trees support and frame a changing collection of contemporary sculpture in a stunning garden created by Hannah Peschar and her awardwinning landscape designer husband Anthony Paul. Here Hannah, in conversation with essence, explains the history and reasons behind the creation of a magical world at the start of her summer exhibition in Ockley. >
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“Rick Kirby’s ‘Broadside’, a stunning two metre long mild steel face that rests in the Woodland Garden, has been here for almost 20 years and is a firm favourite with visitors and staff.” 'Broadside' by Rick Kirby at The Hannah Peschar Sculpture Garden
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essence art
'Sound Architecture 5' by Ronald van der Meijs
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annah and Anthony’s garden came to light as an idea in the seventies and today the lush natural looking valley in Standon Lane, Ockley is filled with architectural plants (there are no flowering plants) such as hellebores and euphorbias providing every possible shade of green. A canopy of mature trees shades the garden creating varied light levels, with large ponds and streams offering movement, sound and light. The overall effect is to create something akin to a real life Pre-Raphaelite painting.
How did you come up with the idea for the project? I had grown up with a love for nature and was inspired whilst attending a sculpture exhibition held by a friend in my homeland of Holland. There were so many pieces on display that several sculptures were placed outside. I was immediately struck with the contrast between the art and surrounding foliage, and knew instinctively what we should do with the gardens surrounding our sixteenth century cottage. Initially I started the Sculpture Garden with less than 30 pieces confined to the main lawn; the rest of the garden was still in too much of a state to be shown to the public. It has now grown to exhibit over 140 pieces by 40 plus artists from all over Europe.
What was first, the idea or the garden? Anthony and I discovered our gem in the Surrey countryside back in the 1970s; we immediately saw the potential to create something magnificent. The gardens had been originally landscaped in the 1920s, but had fallen into disrepair with fallen trees, waist-high nettles and a stream that burst its banks every winter. We began the enormous task of taming the garden and stream,
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'Remember the Tenderness of Earth' by Walter Bailey
building dykes as in my homeland of Holland, rebuilding the weir to control the waters and forming large ponds surrounded by mature trees and broadleaf plants. The water adds movement, texture and light: fastflowing watercourses, a cascade and quiet expanses that reflect trees and other plants. Anthony’s birthplace of New Zealand has inspired him to use magnificent architectural plants such as Gunnera Manicata and Giant Hogweeds. Unlike traditional British gardens,
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'Totem Deities' by Patricia Volk
there are no flowering plants (apart from the rich carpet of wildflowers in spring), no borders or beds – nothing is contrived. Shades of green are infinite throughout the gardens: from luminescent tones of moss after the rain to the almost black of large fir trees near the cottage. Contrast also comes through incredible textures and fascinating fungi. There is a sense of natural order throughout; the bamboo garden is the only area noticeably manicured. The marriage between nature and the sculpture doesn’t stop with the foliage; the garden is home to a huge variety of birds, mammals and British snakes. Ducks, moorhens and the odd heron live happily on the numerous ponds throughout the garden. Rare native birds such as wrens and kingfishers are regularly seen, as well as a whole host of other small and large birds. The garden has even become home to a pair of buzzards in recent years – they can be heard calling and seen circling just above the treetops. The sculpture, flora and fauna all work seamlessly together to create a harmonious and tranquil atmosphere. Weather and changing seasons create dramatic light patterns, which can be just as striking across a Gunnera leaf as a stunning marble Paul Vanstone sculpture. The everchanging light means that every day in the Sculpture Garden is unique, and even a second glance at a sculpture might show the viewer something unseen before.
'The Branch' by Sam Shendi
'Vases Communicants I & II' by Thiébaut Chagué
How much were you involved in the redesign of the garden by your husband? I was hugely involved – to help clear up the mess! There were a great number of very high stinging nettles, so I had to cover myself completely even in the hottest of summer weather to avoid getting stung. A priority was clearing mossy areas to help it grow and spread during a time when, as a whole, moss was seen by the average English garden-lover as a very unwanted weed! Nowadays the moss has a great deal of admiration, it doesn’t need to be mown, but is hard work to look after, especially in autumn and winter when we constantly have to blow the leaves and debris off to stop it from suffocating due to lack of oxidants and light.
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'Mother and Child' by Johannes von Stumm
Do you have favourites you do not want to sell? Yes many, but I have no choice but to try and sell them as I need the income to pay for people who help: gardeners, curating assistance, paying bills… and to keep the sculptors happy selling their work! I keep a few sculptures with glee as they have been given to me by the artists. There are certain pieces which are as much a part of the Sculpture Garden as the magnificent oaks or ponds. Rick Kirby’s ‘Broadside’, a stunning two metre long mild steel face that rests in the Woodland Garden, has been here for almost 20 years and is a firm favourite with visitors and staff. ‘Sienna Torso’ by Emily Young is now so firmly bedded in the Wild Garden that tree roots have grown under the moss around it. With the exception of a few pieces, everything is for sale or is an example of a commissionbased piece. >
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'Blue Flowers' by Sophie Marsham
How often do you replace sculptures in the garden? As The Hannah Peschar Sculpture Garden is a working art gallery, we aim to constantly rotate the work on show. Pieces are (for the most part) here for a maximum of two years, after which artists collect their work and often bring something new to replace it. If a piece has not sold within two years, it’s clear that the Sculpture Garden is not quite the right place to be showing it. We also want to keep the Sculpture Garden exciting for our numerous return visitors and for everyone working here.
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essence art
'Memory' (detail) by Caroline Moiret
Do you choose the artist or do they find your place? For the most part I approach the sculptors, spending winter months visiting art exhibitions and shows to see who interests me. There are quite a few sculptors who approach me or the gallery, and we have exhibited a number of them. The key problem we have with a large number of those who approach the gallery is they have not done their research; they do not realise it is an outdoor gallery and therefore their work must be suitable to be shown outside. We are currently exhibiting a series of carved and turned Redwood pieces by Irish woodturner Liam O’Neill. He phoned the gallery out of the blue last year, and after a visit to Ireland to see his work we were thrilled to be able to show it here.
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Do you place any kind of art in the Sculpture Garden? Yes and no. There is a huge range of work on show, from figurative to wildly abstract and everything in between. Traditional materials such as carved stone, wood and bronze, contemporary processes such as high-fired ceramics and lacquered resin, and even glass can all be found in the Sculpture Garden. I have the final say on all pieces that come into the garden; if the quality is not high enough, or the style won’t work within the setting, then it’s a definite no. I will see a photo of a piece and instinctively know if it will work in the garden. The work also has to be strong enough to withstand the British weather (wind, rain and frosts), and must be heavy enough to not be easily moved by an accident-prone visitor or someone who wants to ‘pinch it’.
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'Standing Mare' by Stuart Anderson
How many of your visitors come with the intention to buy and how many just to enjoy the place? In the beginning, the garden was one of a kind. It was the first commercial sculpture garden in the UK, so it was extremely popular with buyers wanting something unique to place in their gardens. Over the years, more outdoor galleries have opened around the UK, but visitor numbers continue to increase every year. We now cater for schools and large groups: everyone from art societies, to garden lovers and even flower-arrangers. Most visitors are coming for a lovely afternoon out, and we are honoured to have so many that return again and again.
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What kind of people visit The Hannah Peschar Sculpture Garden? Everyone. Young children to pensioners and everyone in between. Art lovers and collectors, garden enthusiasts, and those just looking for a nice afternoon out. It’s very difficult to sum up as we are blessed with such a broad audience.
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The Sculpture Garden’s summer exhibition runs from 1 May until 31 October 2015.
essence info The Hannah Peschar Sculpture Garden Black and White Cottage, Standon Lane, Ockley, Surrey RH5 5QR Telephone: 01306 627269 Website: www.hannahpescharsculpture.com
TR 10 EA % O TM F EN F T*
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essence travel
Gentle
giants
Cumbrian Heavy Horses offers riding holidays like no others. Hanna Lindon makes for the Lake District to tick a fabulous experience off her bucket list.
I
t’s a perfect afternoon on the Duddon Estuary and Cumbria’s most beautiful sandy beach is basking in golden sunshine. Peeling wooden fishing boats bob just off the coast, straining at their anchors, and behind us the rolling foothills of the southern Lake District rise up towards distant mountain peaks. There aren’t many views like this in Britain – but there’s no time to laze around enjoying it. “Ready for a canter?” says Annie Rose, turning round in the saddle and grinning happily at us. A moment later she’s gone, her horse’s hooves sending geysers of sand cascading up behind her and leaving the beach echoing to a thunderous beat. My husband Guy and I follow, adrenaline sending our stomachs spinning and the glorious views blurring around us. Both of us have been in the saddle before – I’ve even got my own little pony back home – but nothing compares to riding a heavy horse at speed along a beach. The bass drum beat of its hooves along the sand, those giant muscles bunching up beneath you and the black mane flying in the wind all combine to make this an experience never to be forgotten. Cumbrian Heavy Horses is the UK’s only specialist horse riding centre, and one of the few places in the country where a giant-sized shire or Clydesdale horse can be taken
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galloping along a beach. The operation is masterminded by Annie Rose, whose boundless energy and fabulous eccentricity adds an extra helping of fun to the experience. The weekend of our visit catches the yard in the midst of an upheaval. Having led her horses on a 450-mile, threeweek migration down from Skye in 2006, Annie has recently moved again – just a few miles down the road this time – to her own smallholding in the Whicham Valley. There’s activity all over the place, with tumbledown agricultural buildings in the middle of being converted to tack rooms, and a rather spectacular ‘glampsite’ emerging from the mud close to the stables. Sheep with newborn lambs are corralled into a corner of one of the yard’s big barns and friendly dogs frisk us as we amble around. It’s one of those wonderful, time-unchanged places that makes you want to jack in the urban life and migrate to the country. “Which horse do you want to ride?” Annie asks, as she leads us towards three gentle giants snoozing in a shady barn. Two are black geldings with wide white noses, one slightly stockier than the other, and the third is a big brown mare. The mare’s name is Miracle, and apparently she’s a bit of a whizz at dressage. That sounds a tad intimidating, so Guy and I opt for the geldings – Jacob and Solas – while Annie rides Miracle. >
www.essence-magazine.co.uk 15 Image courtesy of Annie Rose, Cumbrian Heavy Horses
“The day has been glorious, as every day spent exploring the fells of the Lake District always is.”
The yard itself is a few miles distant from the beach and the horses have to be boxed down there. That means the beach rides are usually at least a half-day endeavour for relatively experienced riders only, but there are plenty of ways for beginners to enjoy the heavy horse riding experience. The scenery around the Whicham Valley is almost as knockout as the Duddon Estuary. Rides around the valley can be anything from one and a half hours to half a day, and there are fell rides up into the high hills of the Lake District too for those who prefer summits to seashores. The day after our thrilling experience on the beach, Guy and I follow Annie on a gentle amble around the valley. Our route takes us uphill into the Lake District’s southwestern foothills, with tantalising views of higher peaks peeping over the slope ahead. Solas might be happy to hare along in a canter, but in walk he’s an armchair ride: I don’t think I’ve ever been on a more comfortable horse. If there’s a more perfect way to enjoy the landscapes of this glorious National Park then I certainly haven’t found it yet. It’s
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with a feeling of blissed-out contentment that we finally turn the horses round and head back to the farm, our shadows lengthening behind and a tie-died sunset bleaching the sky above. The luxurious yurt on Cumbrian Heavy Horses’ own campsite isn’t open yet, so instead we pitch our tent in Windermere, a short drive north into the National Park. For those who prefer a more comfortable overnight experience this is a centre for the Lake District’s most opulent hotels as well: big names such as The Samling, Hollbeck Ghyll and Linthwaite House Hotel are all grouped around Windermere. For us, though, the draw of this scenically sublime area is the walking. Whether you fancy a bimble around the lake in the footsteps of Wordsworth or a bracing hike up one of the country’s highest mountains, there’s a route around here to suit everyone. After plenty of wrangling over where to go, we opt for a walk up to the summit of Coniston Old Man. It might be one of the most iconic hills in the Lakes, but you can avoid the crowds if you park at the
end of a narrow road that wiggles west out of Coniston village and tackle the fell from its southern side. The tramp to the top is steep, but nothing that the average relatively fit family couldn’t manage. As a reward, there’s a sheltered spot beneath the summit cairn to relax with a picnic and breathe in the mind-blowing views out towards Coniston Water. The day is gloriously sunny, so instead of heading straight back down we follow the ridge northwards for a couple of kilometres before descending to the shores of Levers Water – a wonderfully secluded lake hidden in the heart of the Coniston fells. It’s a windy and undulating walk back to the car park from here and only the prospect of a post-walk pint at The Sun Inn keeps the spring in our step during that final slog. The day has been glorious, as every day spent exploring the fells of the Lake District always is. But I can’t help thinking that those views would have looked even more superb from the back of a heavy horse. l
Image: Guy Prince
Image courtesy of Annie Rose, Cumbrian Heavy Horses
Hanna Lindon
essence travel
Go explore... Getting there: Cumbrian Heavy Horses is a scenic thirty minute drive on good roads from Junction 36 of the M6, just past Broughton-in-Furness. It’s well signposted, so visitors shouldn’t get lost. Getting around: A limited network of buses and trains serve the Lake District National Park (see www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/visiting/planyourvisit/ travelandtransport for more details on public transport), but the easiest way to get around is by car. Several taxi companies are based in the Millom area, including Pete’s Taxis (www.petestaxis.com). When to go: In winter riding opportunities are limited by the weather, so it’s best to book a trip during the summer months. June, July and August are warmest but tend to be busier and more expensive. May and September frequently benefit from equally good weather but without the large crowds. Where to stay: Cumbrian Heavy Horses has its own rather luxurious campsite in the pipeline. If you’re not a roll mat and sleeping bag kind of person though then there are endless luxury hotels in the Windermere area, including Linthwaite House Hotel (www.linthwaite.com) and The Cranleigh (www.thecranleigh.com).
Hanna Lindon
Rides and prices: The most basic experience with Cumbrian Heavy Horses is a one and a half hour farm ride which comes in at £65 per person. Fell rides for more experienced riders cost £110 for half a day or £170 for a full day. Beach rides are the classic heavy horse experience and are priced at £135 for half a day or £180 for a full day. Images: Guy Prince
“If there’s a more perfect way to enjoy the landscapes of this glorious National Park then I certainly haven’t found it yet. It’s with a feeling of blissed-out contentment that we finally turn the horses round and head back to the farm, our shadows lengthening behind and a tie-died sunset bleaching the sky above.”
Where to eat: Some of the Lake District’s luxury hotels have Michelin-starred eateries including Holbeck Ghyll (www.holbeckghyll.com) and The Samling (www.thesamlinghotel.co.uk). For something cheaper, but extremely scrumptious, head to vegetarian Italian restaurant Zeffirellis in Ambleside (www.zeffirellis.com). The Apple Pie (www.roomsattheapplepie.co.uk) is a good place to enjoy breakfast.
Find out more: See the Cumbrian Heavy Horses website (www.cumbrianheavyhorses.com). The Lake District National Park website (www.lakedistrict.gov.uk) is also a useful source of information.
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essence motoring
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T H E
P E R F E C T
WEDGIE The wedge shaped Range Rover Evoque has been with us now for four years. It still looks fresh, but the competition has caught up in other areas. So a variety of mid-life changes now appear in the form of subtle visual tweaks, new engines and a safety kit. Euan Johns looks at the latest Evoque reincarnation that bids to keep the car ahead of the pack.
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rom the outside the changes are slight, but do reflect just how radical the baby Range Rover was and let’s face it still is. The Evoque becomes the first Jaguar Land Rover model to get full-LED adaptive headlamps. Standard on the topspec Autobiography models, they offer increased range over versions fitted with projector lamps and also adjust with any steering wheel movement. As part of the Evoque’s cosmetic ‘nip and tuck’, the car has even more distinctive LED daytime running lights including LED indicators, a more macho front bumper with larger air intakes and two new mesh grille designs. Slimmer fog lamps have a noticeably wider tow-eye cover and enhance the new bumper design. To the rear, there’s a new spoiler with an integrated third brake light, new tail lamps with LED daytime running lights and a ‘hands-free’ electric tailgate.
To enhance safety and create a striking visual effect, the indicator function is integrated into the Evoque’s distinctive LED daytime-running lights (DRLs) that sweep across the full width of the light clusters. The energy-efficient LED technology reduces demands placed on electrical systems. There’s a greater range of paint finishes to choose from, including Waitomo Grey Premium Metallic and Baltoro Ice Metallic that now bring colour choices to a round baker’s dozen. Interior changes include new seats and door casings that use contemporary softtouch materials; a new infotainment system (accessed via an eight-inch touchscreen) and customer configured lighting for any desired ambience. The introduction of new internal colours include Lunar Ice, Vintage Tan and Dark Cherry (Autobiography only) complementing the Evoque’s bold form. Under the bonnet a new aluminium Ingenium diesel engine delivers best-in-class CO2 emissions from 109g/km and fuel
consumption of 68mpg (4.2 l/100km). Land Rover engineers have paid particular attention to reducing weight while maintaining excellent strength. Replacing the predecessor’s iron block, the aluminium engine has twin balancer shafts to reduce vibration to a minimum. Customers can specify the existing Si4 2.0-litre petrol engine, available as standard with four-wheel drive and an advanced ZF nine-speed automatic transmission. >
“The Range Rover Evoque first established and then dominated the luxury compact SUV sector generating worldwide acclaim and sales success. Our challenge has been to evolve the Evoque design without diluting its distinctive character.” GERRY MCGOVERN, LAND ROVER DESIGN DIRECTOR AND CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER
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The all-aluminium four-cylinder engine features an advanced low-inertia turbocharger, high-pressure direct fuel injection and twin independent variable-valve timing. Enhancing the car’s green credentials, engines have variable valve timing and a series of low friction technologies. Selective catalytic reduction and a new low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation system significantly reduce NOx emissions. It’s not just the engines which bring the Evoque bang up to date – the car’s technology has been overhauled as well. As with the new Jaguar XE, the Evoque now gets JLR’s InControl eight-screen touchscreen infotainment system, which offers a slicker interface than before and a whole raft of useful apps. InControl Touch Plus also debuts on topdrawer HSE Dynamic Lux and Autobiography models, and adds sat-nav, an 11-speaker Meridian sound system, rear-seat entertainment, digital wireless headphones and dual-view screen functionality. A range of innovative new features enhance the Evoque’s comprehensive array
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of safety features. Lane-Keeping Assist uses the stereo digital camera to prevent unintended lane changes by monitoring road markings. If the vehicle begins to drift into an adjacent lane without the driver signalling beforehand, Lane-Keeping Assist applies a gentle steering correction to maintain lane position. Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) prevents or greatly reduces the severity of accidents in the event of the driver failing to take preventative action. Using an advanced forward-facing
stereo digital camera, the system can identify potential hazards ahead. If a collision risk is detected, the driver is alerted by visual and audible prompts and, if the driver fails to take evasive action, the system helps to avoid collisions below 32mph and reduces the severity of an impact at speeds below 50mph. Attention Assist Estimation completes the trio of new systems fitted. This monitors steering inputs to detect when a driver is at risk of falling asleep at the wheel. Audible alarms and visual warnings signal when drowsiness is detected. Trim levels have been realigned to match those of the Range Rover Sport and customers have the choice of SE, HSE Dynamic and Autobiography trims. Prices range from £30-35K, depending on model and specification, with deliveries starting in August.
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essence info Website: www.landrover.co.uk
Questa_4pp_Layout 1 03/10/2014 12:32 Page 5
at
49 High Street • Cobham • Surrey • KT11 3DP t.01932 866636
f.01932 860635
e.info@questaonline.com
w.www.questaonline.com
product focus Two for tea The East India Company has launched one of London’s most stylish tea bars this month at its Mayfair flagship store on Conduit Street, W1. The company’s tea master, Lalith Lenadora, created the collection of teas by pairing contrasting blends to delight the senses and prick the imagination. Flavours available originate from a diverse selection of black, white, green, oolong teas and herbal infusions including Staunton Earl Grey, Silver Tips White Tea with jasmine and the Blend 68 – Tropical Punch, which can also be enjoyed as an iced tea. Prices range from £2.50–£ 3.00. www.eicfinefoods.com
JADU TEA (jah-doo) is an independent Global Luxury Tea Brand based in the UK. JADU’s selection of blends range from the traditional English Breakfast to the elegant Mademoiselle Grey and the healthy China Green. Priced at £16 for 12 tea envelopes, or £19 for 100grm whole leaf tea, each tea, flavour or fruit is handled with care to retain its individual character and fragrance and handpacked into its own luxury suede box. Now available for purchase online, delivering worldwide, JADU TEA will launch in selected department stores in London by Christmas 2015. www.jadutea.co.uk
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essence style
Hats to turn heads Main image: Sainte Courtisane at etsy.com. Red cloche hat: Rock My Vintage
W
hether the sun has its hat on or not, the summer season brings with it plenty of hat-wearing opportunities. Thanks to personalities such as The Duchess of Cambridge, Zara Phillips Tindall, Katherine Jenkins, Dita von Teese and even Lady Gaga, headpieces are definitely the in thing. From Ascot to Henley, Epsom to Goodwood, weddings to garden parties, to turn heads for the right reason, just follow my four point guide to avoid a millinery meltdown!
Colour It is absolutely crucial to choose a flattering colour because the hat will be worn so close to the face. Pick an accent colour from the chosen outfit or select a contrasting colour and carry it through with accessories. Top tip: black or dark colours on a hat will cast shadows on the face which will show up in photographs.
Shape It is also important for the hat to work with face shape and hairstyle. For those with short hair, it can appear as if the hat covers it all. In this case, choose a headpiece or
fascinator instead of a traditional hat with crown and brim so there is plenty of hair on show. It doesn’t have to be small though. Discs are ideal as they have size and impact without hiding the hair.
Size Consider personal build and stature when selecting the right headgear. The general rule is that the taller you are, the bigger the hat that can be carried off.
The Head Bloomer
Emma Barrow
Personal stylist Anita Feron Clark offers her guide to finding that all important accessory for the summer event season: the perfect hat.
Style The chosen hat really needs to reflect individual style and personality, and above all it should feel comfortable. Trust me, when ‘the one’ is found, it will be apparent. It will make the hat wearer stand taller and unable to stop smiling at their reflection! For those who wear glasses, ensure they complement the hat and don’t get in the way of the style chosen. Berets and perchers are more tailored and formal than fascinators, but easy to wear. They are worn with elastic that can be hidden in hair. Top tip: This can be a great way to keep hair in place! l
essence info Anita Feron Clark With almost 20 years in the fashion industry: 12 years as a senior clothing buyer for Marks and Spencer and Austin Reed, four years as a lecturer in fashion buying and merchandising at The London College of Fashion and over seven years running a business, Feron Clark Style, Anita is able to impart practical advice in a fun and engaging way. For more information contact 07799 856544 or email anita@feronclarkstyle.com Website: www.feronclarkstyle.com
www.essence-magazine.co.uk 25
essence fashion
Summer style courtesy of Kiwi swimwear Moontide, a premium swimwear label from New Zealand, has been providing stylish and comfortable swimwear for over 35 years. essence takes at look at the new summer collection. >
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Moontide ‘Mod’ collection
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essence fashion
Moontide ‘Dreamy’ collection
S
ince its inception in Auckland, New Zealand, Moontide has focused on consistently producing quality swimwear that is on-trend with an impeccable fit, enabling women to feel confident while on the beach or at the pool. Now well established as a key name in the industry, the Moontide brand was named number one bestselling swimwear by retailers in The Swimwear Yearbook 2012. The collection currently retails in over 1,000 stores worldwide. This summer’s collection is true to form: stylish and flattering, featuring bold colours and unique prints in a range of different styles to suit all. l
Moontide ‘Hey Ho’ collection
Moontide ‘Funky Pop’ collection
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Moontide ‘China’ collection
Moontide ‘Funky Spot’ collection
essence info Moontide Website: www.moontide.com
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essence food
At their best...
RIGHT NOW
Seasonal and local food offers taste, health and even economic benefits. Crates Local Produce highlights the amazing seasonal produce available from our region.
rates Local Produce is located centrally within the historic market town of Horsham and bursts with fresh, seasonal food sourced directly from local producers. For more details see www.crateslocal.co.uk. Follow on Twitter @crateslocal or Facebook page Crates Local.
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Broad Beans There is a very short season for these sweet and creamy beans, which is why they are often dried, frozen or canned. Choose fresh pods from the greengrocer that are pale green and soft so the beans within are still young. As the beans grow larger, the skin will be tougher, but can be easily removed by par boiling. This versatile vegetable works well in stews, soups, salads or just as they are after a short boil or steam. The broad bean originates from North Africa and parts of Asia, but is now grown throughout the world. It is referred to as the fava bean in Italy and US, but also known as the faba, field, bell or tic bean. In Latin countries, the beans are used in various stew dishes, very popular with tacos, but also widely available as a dried snack. The Chinese refer to them as Sichuan beans and use as a base for spicy pastes. Throughout history, the bean has been considered as good luck and the ancient Greeks and Romans even used them to cast their votes. Image © Vivilweb | Dreamstime.com
Herring Many consider these silver fish only in their preserved state such as rollmops. However, as part of the Clupeidae family of oily fish that also includes sardines, herrings are delicious freshly caught and simply cooked. In the seafood chain, herring is pretty low down and there is a growing movement that considers them to be amongst the most sustainable to eat rather than larger fish such as cod which feed on herrings. In addition, most farmed fish are fed on dried and ground smaller fish such as herring. Eating the smaller wild caught fish in the first place is equivalent to ‘cutting out the middle man’. Herring caught in our own waters by mid-water trawling are amongst the most sustainable. These very same waters though still cause disputes within the EU as to who should fish there, but these disputes have been going on since Medieval times. It was from this age that herring really came into its own as an important winter food, dried or pickled. When buying from the fresh ice counter, choose those with clear eyes, red gills and scales intact. Remember, the best fresh fish smells of the sea and not fishy. Herrings can be baked or poached, but are even better grilled, fried or griddled to allow for a crispy skin. Image © Draftmode | Dreamstime.com
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Gooseberries These tart little hairy berries have been long revered in cooler climates as they were one of the very first fruits of the season before fresh food was heavily imported. At the start of the season, when still firm and slightly under ripe, they are delicious poached and used in pies and crumbles, or then puréed for fools, ice cream or as a sharp sauce for rich roasts such as pork, duck or goose. Later in the season they can be sweet enough to eat on their own, especially the red varieties. Gooseberry bushes have been cultivated for hundreds of years, but wild gooseberries can still be found, although berries are a lot smaller. The name is thought to derive from European terms such as the Dutch ‘kruisbes’, German ‘Krausbeere’ or French ‘groseille’ which translates as mackerel berry. Some believe, however, it comes from the bushes being grown on land where geese were kept. What we do know is that saying ‘born under a gooseberry bush’ originates from the nineteenth century slang ‘gooseberry bush’ used to refer to certain bodily hair! Image © Linda Macpherson | Dreamstime.com
Summer drinking As the weather turns, we switch to more ‘summery’ foods, but we also crave refreshing drinks to accompany seasonal dishes or to simply enjoy on their own in the warmer evenings. The South Downs are now growing fine grapes and, of course, English sparkling is very well respected. However, winemakers such as Sam Linter from the Bolney Wine Estate are even getting on top of the reds too and Bolney Cuvée Noir is one of the most special summer sparkling wines, guaranteed to cause a stir at any gathering. For a truly refreshing beer, Rudgwick brewery, Firebird, is making some stunning world ales including Bohemia – a Czech style lager – and Fireweisse – a delightful cloudy wheat beer that works well chilled and served with a slice of fruit. Hepworth’s Blonde is a splendid lager that would be an ideal partner to any picnic. However, the real summer treat is a cool gin and tonic with a locally distilled spirit. There are a number of old and new distilleries reviving this traditional British tipple. Silent Pool are Surrey’s botanical magicians with Brighton Gin further down on the coast and their alleged ‘hangover-free’ gin harnessing milk thistle.
>
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essence food
Bean, pea and asparagus risotto www.crateslocal.co.uk Serves four Ingredients: 350g risotto rice 100g broad beans One bunch asparagus 50g fresh or frozen peas 80g butter Four large shallots One stick celery Large glass white wine Zest of one lemon One and a half litres of vegetable stock 100g hard cheese such as Parmesan or Sussex Twineham Grange Method: • Finely chop the shallots and celery and add to half of the butter once melted in a wide pan. Cook through until soft. Prepare the stock in another pan and allow to simmer. • Blanche the broad beans (and remove bean coatings if required). Remove woody ends from the asparagus and chop into short lengths. • Stir the rice in to the butter, onion and celery over a medium heat, ensuring it is all well coated and continue to cook for a few minutes until the grains look clear. • Turn up the heat and add the wine allowing it to bubble until all the wine is absorbed into the rice. Add the asparagus and peas with a small amount of the stock. Let this absorb and keep adding small amounts of stock at a time allowing it to absorb each time. • Once the mixture has become creamy, but with a bite to it, stop adding stock, but keep cooking for a further fifteen minutes or so whilst stirring and then add the broad beans. Add hot water if necessary during this process. • Remove from heat and stir in the cheese, remaining butter and zest. Season if required and serve.
Grilled Dijon herring www.crateslocal.co.uk Serves four Ingredients: Four whole herrings Two tablespoons Dijon mustard Two teaspoons fresh lemon juice Two tablespoons oil: olive or rapeseed Seasoning: salt and pepper to taste Method: • Gut and scale the fish or, better still ask a fishmonger to do this, but keep the fishes whole. Slash each fish side with five deep cuts and spread in the mustard. Season and brush the fish with the lemon juice and oil. • Place under a medium to high grill for around five to six minutes each side ensuring the skin crisps. You can also use a griddle, but timing will be less as the fish will cook quicker. • Serve simply with thick cut, crusty buttered bread.
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Gooseberry fool www.crateslocal.co.uk Serves four Ingredients: 450g gooseberries, green or red Four tablespoons of granulated sugar, reduce to two for sweeter red gooseberries 300ml double cream Cocoa powder to garnish Method: • Prepare gooseberries by just slicing off the very tops and bottoms of each berry. • Heat in a pan with the sugar and around two tablespoons of water, bring to the boil and simmer until the fruits burst. • Cool mixture and chill down further in the fridge for at least half an hour, remove then fork through. • Slowly whip the double cream until just thick and in soft folds. Chill this also for around ten minutes. • Fold the fruit mixture in to the cream and serve immediately with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or refrigerate until ready.
Gin and tonic float www.crateslocal.co.uk Serves one Ingredients: Double measure of gin One scoop of lemon sorbet Small bottle of tonic water Method: • Pour a generous measure of a favourite gin. • Drop in a scoop of sorbet and add enough tonic to cover the sorbet at which point it will start to froth. • Stir and add in remaining tonic to the top of the glass.
essence info Crates Local Produce 24a Carfax, Horsham, West Sussex RH12 1EB Telephone: 01403 256435 Website: www.crateslocal.co.uk Follow on Twitter @crateslocal or Facebook page Crates Local
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Artisan_2pp_Layout 1 29/05/2015 17:06 Page 2
GREEN
essence artisan food
CREDENTIALS
Shirlee Posner of Eat Surrey seeks and finds the best small food producers, restaurants, cafés, pubs and shops, publishing a weekly review on her website. This month, she introduces essence readers to a local, natural and ethical supplier: Village Greens, a model Surrey food business.
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ith two farm shops, a young family and a determination to stick to a strict self-imposed set of criteria, the owner of this established, award-winning business is one of a kind. I first met Catherine Dampier in 2006 just before she and her husband James started their first farm shop in Ockley. It was hard not to be full of admiration from the start as Catherine spoke about an ethos that ticked so many boxes. The couple set out to support local suppliers from the outset: buying meat from high welfare farms, growing their own produce to sell in Village Greens and employing local people. They were also determined to only choose and produce food that delivered on taste too. Eight years on and James and Catherine have worked incredibly hard to make their dream a reality. It’s fantastic to see that they have stuck to their original ethos throughout, even though it has been a huge challenge at times. They opened their first shop in Ockley, near Dorking, in 2007 much to the delight of locals. On discovering that this wasn’t just another village shop, customers were and still are continuously delighted by new, never seen before products. An example of this is
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Dineke van den Bogerd of Crumbs of Capel, an artisan baker of sourdough bread. Dineke got her first break with Village Greens and now supplies two other farm shops in Surrey. Two years ago James and Catherine opened their second shop at Denbies Vineyard selling plants and food. The owners also let them have use of their walled vegetable garden. A large greenhouse provides space for starting off seedlings for the sister site in Ockley. For those concerned about how far food travels, there is no need to worry at Village Greens. James and Catherine have joined a growing band of smallholders who produce stock for their own retail outlets. Using traditional farming methods, they get as close as possible to organic. Salad leaves, green beans, courgettes, kale, kohl rabi and even fresh cut flowers are grown just across the road from the shop. Buy a bag of their salad leaves and there’ll be edible flowers, herbs and amaranth thrown in too. Village Greens also run a vegetable bag scheme for pick up or delivery as long as purchasers are local. To supplement their own produce, they buy from other local producers such as Secretts in Milford and Nutbourne tomatoes in Sussex. It doesn't stop with vegetables and fruit. Before buying meat or poultry, the couple meet suppliers and check production methods are in keeping with their ethos that all should be raised and slaughtered humanely. For example, poultry is from Etherley Farm, down the road from the shop, where birds are raised in a free-range environment. Drive into the farm and see hens and ducks roaming freely.
James and Catherine are proud to tell customers that the majority of products come from within thirty miles of the shop and eighteen are based within ten miles. With the exception of coffee and tea, this is an extraordinary achievement. Within that ten miles they source a wide range of diverse products including beef, lamb, chicken, sausages, wine, bread, milk and chocolates. But the culinary journey doesn’t stop here. There are local cheeses on offer at Village Greens, of which the closest producer to the shop is Norbury Park Farm who produce Norbury Blue and Dirty Vicar from their own milk. From further afield comes Sussex Charmer and a selection from High Weald Organic Dairy in West Sussex, plus charcuterie produced at the Weald Smokery in East Sussex. Coffee, of course, we expect to be imported, but by using Coffee Real (an ethical coffee business) means this box is also ticked. Unlike other farm shops, there aren’t any big brands; instead there is a changing display of wonderful products that deliver on all counts. Expect tasters too. On my last visit I tried Silent Pool gin which was full flavoured, aromatic and strong. This helped to wash down the Chalk Hills Bakery lemon drizzle cake, so lemony, moist and dense, it was delightful. Catherine and James are wonderful hosts and happy to share their vast product knowledge with visitors. For those travelling a distance and wanting to make a day of it, why not check the Village Greens website for dates of their food fairs? Both shops host them and it’s a great opportunity to sample lots of wonderful local products, meet the suppliers and support a growing community of talented artisan food producers.
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essence info Village Greens Farm Shops Coles Lane, Ockley, Dorking RH5 5LS Telephone: 01306 713474 and Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking RH5 6AA Telephone: 01306 880720 Websites: www.vgfarmshop.com www.eatsurrey.co
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PROVIDER OF
Early summer asparagus soup with herb oil A
warming favourite with wonderful seasonal vegetables from Village Greens in Ockley.
Serves four Ingredients One 15ml spoon olive oil A handful of green garlic shoots or two salad onions, finely chopped One red onion, finely chopped One clove smoked garlic, crushed 150g to 200g fresh asparagus spears, halved lengthways for bigger spears 150g fresh broad beans, podded weight 200g courgettes, cut into julienne strips or spiralised One litre of fresh chicken stock Two 15ml spoons of crème fraîche Salt and freshly ground black pepper
CREATIVE PR SERVICES, COPY WRITING & FOOD PHOTOGRAPHY TO ARTISAN FOOD PRODUCERS
Shirlee’s food reviews of independently owned cafes, restaurants, artisan food producers and farm shops in Surrey. A supporter of the local food movement with an aim to promote, support and champion their work. I always tell a personal story by taking the time to meet the people behind the products or the brand. Read my reviews here www.eatsurrey.co Twitter: @eatsurrey Instagram: @eatsurrey Telephone: 07917 891881 Email: eatsurrey@gmail.com
For the basil oil A handful of fresh basil leaves A handful of fresh mint leaves A handful of fresh marjoram leaves Four 15ml spoons extra virgin olive oil Method 1. Heat the olive oil in a heavy based pan and add the green garlic, salad and red onion. Sweat with the lid on the pan for four to five minutes and then add the smoked garlic. 2. Pour in the stock and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and add the asparagus, broad beans and courgettes. Simmer for seven to eight minutes or until the vegetables are tender. 3. While the soup is cooking, put the ingredients for the basil oil into a blender and blitz. 4. Stir the crème fraîche into the soup with two to three spoons of basil oil. 5. Season the soup and serve with an extra spoon of cream, a drizzle of oil and a sprig of fresh herbs. Serve with some warm crusty sour dough bread. Shirlee Posner
Member of the Guild of Food Writers
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essence restaurant review
Discovery
at Drake’s
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Steve and Serina Drake have continued to surprise with innovative menus at their restaurant in Ripley for close on 13 years now. Steve, the imaginative chef/ proprietor, has perhaps single handedly allowed us the chance to fall in love again with that seemingly neglected luxury, the long lunch. Andrew Peters takes a journey of discovery.
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rake’s of Ripley has again proudly retained its Michelin star this year, an accolade it has been awarded since it first opened. Last year the restaurant was voted number 31 out of the Sunday Times’ Top 100 UK Restaurants list 2014/2015. Added to that, it was named ‘Best Restaurant in Surrey’ at the inaugural 2015 Bookatable Restaurant Awards. It’s no surprise that Drake’s remains on the gastronomic map as one of the most exciting establishments to visit in Surrey. As we stepped through the door, the maître d’ greeted us, checked our reservation and swiftly ushered us to our table. Michael Fiducia is the sommelier and has produced a notable wine list. Without further ado, we were offered a wonderful English sparking cuvée from Nyetimber, West Sussex. L accepted, but I declined in favour of a non-alcoholic mango and lemonade cocktail which was an explosion of taste, perfect on a warm day. Just as we were enjoying first sips, the man himself appeared. Steve studiously explained the journey we were about to embark upon. When visiting Drake’s for lunch, allow plenty of time as there are nine courses to negotiate on the Discovery menu. For those not wishing to partake of the full nine, the Discovery forms the basis of the a la carte menu, so any dish particularly liked can be chosen. This provides wonderful flexibility, meaning individual diners can opt to have two, or perhaps four or more dishes to suit, thereby accommodating any possible time constraints. >
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essence restaurant review
“Ingredients and flavour lead our creativity.”
Steve Drake, chef/proprietor Simple to say, but Drake’s remains Drake’s – it has its own distinctive style of food; Steve is marvellously creative and inspired by everything around him. The passion and creativity was evident as he explained his use of healthy ingredients, always with an eye on the amount of butter and cream used. The food is prepared in small amounts with consummate precision and skill. The presentation leaves diners unwilling to destroy these little works of art. Indeed, as the courses arrived, I found myself slowing down a little to appreciate the vista in front of me. The aptly named Discovery lunch is nine courses filled with the most exquisite inventions: there is also a six course Journey menu and both menus have vegetarian
options available. All were beautifully cooked and served with perfect timing. Once we’d finished a course, plates and cutlery were whisked away and the next seamlessly came into view. Nine courses would suggest some sort of Victorian blow out, but the portions are perfectly balanced in every respect to allow the diner to saunter through and in total provide the perfect lunch. It’s nigh on impossible to choose a highlight amongst it all, but the slow cooked rabbit (presented in a Swiss roll style), mushroom casserole and the cherry and almond mousse topped the bill for me. Suitably satisfied, we declined the coffee (or tea) and took the doggy bag option for the petit fours, as we really did not have any room left! Drake’s is centrally situated in Ripley and in foodie terms it remains at the epicentre of creativity in Surrey. The atmosphere was quiet (probably due to the fact there was an imminent Bank Holiday) but Steve assured us it got livelier at the weekends if that’s a preference. Well worth a visit for a very different taste discovery. l
Discovery menu l Maple smoked tomato Virgin Mary,
watercress l Flame grilled Loch Duart salmon,
rhubarb emulsion, radish l Grilled leek, onion, mushroom
casserole l Slow cooked rabbit, squid, peas,
chorizo l Monkfish, carrot flavours, tarragon
and mussel l Sucking pig, parsnip, Piquillo pepper,
sage butter l Cheese on toast l Rhubarb and custard l Cherry and almond mousse,
cherry parfait, almond milk sorbet Available for the whole table at £90.00 per person plus 12.5% service (discretionary).
Slow Food Month The first week of June is Slow Food Week across the UK, but Drake’s is planning to celebrate for the whole month. Steve Drake is a Chef Alliance member of Slow Food UK and will be supporting the fundraising initiative by adding a special dessert – whey butter ice cream with French toast, English strawberries and lemon verbena – on the set lunch menu. For each one sold, Steve and Serina Drake will donate £1 to Slow Food UK. “Whey butter is one of the Ark of Taste ‘Forgotten Foods’ which we are keen to revive. Producers are rare due to time consuming, labour intensive production methods that require specific skills known to a few dairymen. It makes the most delicious ice cream and with English strawberries being at their seasonal peak in June, this is a delicious, and simple combination that makes the perfect end to a summer meal,” enthuses Steve. The June lunch is available from Wednesday 3 until Saturday 27 June at £30 for three courses, plus coffee and petit fours.
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essence info Drake’s Restaurant The Clock House, High Street, Ripley GU23 6AQ Open Wednesday to Saturday for lunch from 12 (noon) and Tuesday to Saturday for dinner from 7pm. Telephone 01483 224777 Website www.drakesrestaurant.co.uk
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essence baking
ESPRESSO COFFEE CAKE WITH ESPRESSO COFFEE FROSTING By Jen’s Cupcakery
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here are so many coffee cake recipes out there, but having tried quite a few, I have to say this is one of the best; espresso coffee fuelled but moistened with a (not so secret now) ingredient and filled and topped with a deliciously creamy espresso frosting. Easy and so quick to make, it goes perfectly with a freshly made cappuccino for an extra coffee kick!
Method:
• Set the oven to 190°C/375°F and •
Serves 10-12
Ingredients: 250g unsalted butter (or Flora Buttery, our new go-to favourite) 200g caster sugar 250g self-raising flour Four large eggs One teaspoon baking powder 60g golden syrup Two heaped tablespoons strong espresso coffee powder dissolved in three tablespoons of water
Coffee frosting: 300g unsalted butter Two tablespoons semi-skimmed milk Four teaspoons espresso powder dissolved in the milk (warm milk slightly in microwave first) 700g sifted icing sugar
• • • •
grease and line two 20cm (eight inch) cake tins. Place the butter, sugar, syrup and eggs in a large mixing bowl. Sift in the flour and baking powder, and add the coffee. Whisk together for one to two minutes until the mixture is smooth, light and fluffy. Divide the mixture between the two tins and spread evenly. Bake in the centre of the oven for 25-30 minutes until well-risen and firm to the touch. Turn the cakes out on to a wire rack to cool. Whilst the cake is baking, make the frosting. Beat the butter, icing sugar and coffee together until smooth, light and fluffy. When the cakes are cool, sandwich them together with the creamy coffee frosting. Then smooth the remainder of the icing on top of the cake or finish with piped swirls to add a more decorative touch, perhaps with some chocolate-coated coffee beans.
TIP: Golden syrup can be difficult to work with. Try placing the jar in a bowl of hot water for a few minutes prior to using as this will make the syrup leave the spoon a little easier.
essence info Website: www.jenscupcakery.com Telephone: 07751 553106 Facebook: www.facebook.com/jenscupcakery Twitter: @jenscupcakery Blog: ilovejenscupcakery.wordpress.com
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essence legal
The difficult problem of ‘knowing what you don’t know’
I
Eleanora Newbery, associate solicitor at Mundays, looks at the problems of a ‘do it yourself’ divorce and the pitfalls of using commonly available ‘off the shelf’ forms.
came across a quote the other day by Confucius which said: “True wisdom is knowing what you don’t know” and I enjoyed its double meaning. If I actually knew the things I don’t know then I would be very wise indeed. However, the point is obviously to know your own limits and I thought how important this is in family law.
Making family law more accessible Government policy in family law at the moment is very much geared towards trying to make divorce much more accessible to ordinary people, which can only be a good thing. The reasons for this were probably mostly financially motivated: if people do not need solicitors then the government does not need to fund legal aid to pay solicitors. However, it is clearly in everyone’s interests to improve an overcomplicated system. To this end there is now a lot of information online about family law and there is a lot more encouragement for people to undertake the divorce themselves, rather than seek advice from solicitors. The quality of advice online varies enormously and it is easy to ‘get the wrong end of the stick’ when carrying out a Google search. A colleague of mine tells a tale of a client who came to see him with a copy of the Matrimonial Causes Act of Barbados which he had printed from the internet. The major difficulty with the current system, however, is that the reforms have not gone far enough. While documents have been simplified in some ways, in fact there are still lots of areas where there are traps for the unwary.
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In a sense it is the worst of both worlds because the system is not yet simple enough for people not to have any advice, and yet it is simple enough that people do not think they need to instruct solicitors because they can rely on online information. Many of the divorce forms have been amended to make them more ‘user friendly’. As an example, the divorce petition has been modified and there is now a comprehensive instruction sheet. Where once you had to set out the grounds on which you said the court had jurisdiction to hear the case, now you often tick a box in most cases to say that the parties are habitually resident in England and Wales. For the majority of people this will be right and so generally the form is simpler. However, couples with an overseas connection may well still need advice about the jurisdictional basis of their petition. The difficulty with a seemingly simpler divorce petition, however, is that there are still some parts of the form you need to be careful about. For example, there is an application for financial claims on the divorce petition. Often people think they do not want to make financial claims against their spouse, or that they only want to make certain claims. However, if you do not make those claims in the divorce petition then technically you cannot then make those financial claims against your spouse, even though your spouse could make those claims against you. This can be a risk for people acting without legal advice. It can be daunting to receive forms you are unfamiliar with and it is good to have advice from someone who can reassure you that
certain ways to do things are perfectly normal. People are often surprised to hear that in this country you can only divorce on the fact of your spouse’s unreasonable behaviour or adultery, unless you have been separated for a period of at least two years. A solicitor can explain to you the ‘usual’ process and that actually your spouse has probably had to rely on these facts because there was no other way to proceed. Most of the time you do not have to get too involved in the particulars of unreasonable behaviour because you can often just say you do not accept those particulars. Very often having solicitors who are experienced in family law can smooth the path towards a more amicable divorce. I often encourage clients to complete the forms themselves and then show them to me so that I can check relatively quickly that they have been completed correctly. This way we try to keep costs down as far as possible. Generally speaking, the divorce will just be a means to an end so funds can be better spent on reaching a financial settlement. Good legal advice can help you to use your funds on the parts that really matter. I saw a woman a few years ago who came in to swear a document in a divorce case. She told me that she and her husband had been online and downloaded a ‘clean break’ consent order so that neither would make financial claims against each other. When she told me about her situation, she described how she was unable to work because she was caring for their son who was two years old and quite severely disabled. Her husband had a good job in the city. I explained to her that a Court was very unlikely to order a clean break in this case. The lady had a very low income and no way that she could increase it. It would have been completely unfair if there was no ongoing maintenance at all for her. Although it is good to have a quick, amicable and straightforward divorce, this should not be
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at the expense of fairness to the parties. This lady would have been left struggling in the future to make ends meet had she not seen me and taken some legal advice. Another example of this that we see reasonably often is that very often when couples divorce, they do not sort out their finances with a Court Order. This is the issue where people really need good legal advice tailored to their circumstances to ensure a fair outcome that meets their needs. If you get divorced, but do not obtain a Court Order to deal with your financial claims arising from the marriage, then there can be very real problems further down the line. You may well have read in the papers the recently reported case of Vince v Wyatt. This is quite an interesting example of how financial claims were not dealt with properly at the time of the divorce and now, some 23 years later, those claims have to be dealt with.
Background of the case Ms Wyatt (who was the wife) and Mr Vince (the husband) were married on 18 December 1981 when they were 21 and 19 respectively. The couple largely lived on state benefits. The wife had a daughter from a previous marriage and the couple then had a son together on 2 May 1983. The couple separated in 1984 and the husband began to live as a new age traveller, which he did for about eight years. The wife brought up the two children in very difficult financial circumstances in which the husband did not provide substantially for them. The couple divorced on 26 October 1992. From the late 1990s the husband’s green energy business took off and he became a multi-millionaire. The wife’s financial
circumstances continue to be very modest. She had two other children and eventually purchased the council house she had lived in since 1995 where she had lived largely hand to mouth.
The case The wife is now making financial claims against her former husband, some 23 years after the parties divorced. The wife is able to do so because her financial claims from the marriage seem never to have been dealt with. The husband says that there was a Financial Order but it has been lost; the wife says that there was no Financial Order. However, it appears that the wife’s financial claims remain open and this means that even though the husband’s fortune was all made after the marriage, she still has a potential right to claim part of that fortune. The key message from the case has to be that you need to seek legal advice to deal with your financial claims on divorce. In the case of Vince v Wyatt, it might well be that ultimately the wife does not achieve as much as she hopes to achieve from the settlement. However, the fact that the wife’s claims remained open mean that both parties have now spent considerable sums on litigation and have had the stress of Court hearings which could have been avoided had the parties taken legal advice on their divorce.
Property ownership Another common area where people do not realise the need for legal advice is when buying property with other people. When partners or family members buy property together it is vital to see a solicitor so that they can talk to you about what you want
to achieve and to protect any investment you make into a property. Frequently we see people after their relationship has broken down and there is dispute over what happens to the couple’s home. Often one or more parents will have given funds to help the couple onto the property ladder to then find that it is hard or impossible to recover those funds. Similarly, often people do not realise that if you invite your partner to live with you and they contribute to the mortgage, they may then at a later date make a claim on your property. On the other side, couples who live together as married couples for many years may not realise that they will not be entitled to make the same financial claims against their partner if the relationship breaks down. It is much easier to draft a document at the outset so that if the couple separates in future, all the parties, including parents, know exactly what will happen to the property. This can save a lot of expense and acrimony later. It is often very hard to know ‘what you don’t know’ and when you should see a solicitor. A good solicitor will tell you what you need to do and what you can sensibly do yourself to keep costs down. In my experience it is worth having an initial meeting at least so that you can at least find out ‘what you don’t know’ and what your options are.
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essence info Eleanora Newbery can be contacted on 01932 590500 or at Eleanora.Newbery@mundays.co.uk. For more information on divorce and family matters or to discover more about the personally tailored service Mundays can offer or Mundays’ mediation service please contact a member of the Mundays Family department. Mundays LLP Cedar House, 78 Portsmouth Road, Cobham KT11 1AN Telephone: 01932 590500 More information about a range of Property services can be found at www.mundays.co.uk www.resolution.org.uk www.thefma.co.uk www.collabfamilylawsurrey.co.uk www.ifla.org.uk
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Is China a safe bet? essence finance
The rate of growth in the Chinese economy has slowed significantly in recent years. Simon Lewis considers what this might mean for China and the rest of the world.
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hina’s economic rise has been meteoric. Since 2000, the economy has grown 840% (as measured in US Dollars) and has moved up from the sixth largest economy to the second largest. In fact, it is now comfortably the world’s largest trading nation, as determined by the sum of exports and imports. This is one of the reasons why China has been an important driver of global economic growth since the financial crisis that began in 2008, and has certainly helped to prevent a more painful global recession by providing a buoyant market for many western companies. Furthermore, the positive global effect of China’s massive fiscal and monetary policy stimulus should not be underestimated. Nevertheless, the rate of growth is slowing and many commentators have expressed concern about the consequences for the rest of the world. I would certainly agree that, in the short term at least, higher growth in China might be helpful for the
rest of us but the fact remains that China’s growth was on an unsustainable path and needed to be moderated in order to rebalance the economy and avoid a painful future correction. As the ‘Annual GDP Growth’ chart demonstrates, growth is on a downward trend but it is important to bear in mind the impact of compounding. To illustrate this point, the ‘Incremental GDP’ chart shows that a modest (in historical terms) rate of 7% growth would deliver an increase in the size of the Chinese economy equivalent to $800 billion compared to an increase of $100 billion in 2000. To put it another way, China was generating annual economic growth equivalent to the entire annual economic output of Colombia, the fortieth largest economy at the time. It is now producing annual economic growth equivalent to the entire annual economic output of Switzerland, the tenth largest economy. The rebalancing of the Chinese economy is a very clear objective of the government.
China - Annual GDP Growth in Local Currency
Having established itself as an effective high volume, low cost manufacturer serving affluent western companies and consumers, the next phase of China’s economic strategy is to focus on high technology manufacturing and to increase the affluence and purchasing power of its own consumers. This is now well underway, with rising wage levels (manufacturing wages have roughly doubled over the last 5 years) driving the outsourcing of low skilled manufacturing activity not only to neighbouring countries such as Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar but also further afield, to Africa. Crucially, Chinese companies retain control. The current 10-year strategy, known as ‘Made in China 2025’ includes plans to improve innovation, integrate technology and industry, strengthen the industrial base, foster Chinese brands and enforce green manufacturing. The government aims to achieve these goals through high levels of research and development and by forging
China - Incremental GDP Growth
15.0% 14.0% 13.0% 12.0% 11.0% 10.0% 9.0% 8.0% 7.0% 6.0% 5.0% 4.0% 3.0% 2.0% 1.0% 0.0%
$1,000,000,000,000 $800,000,000,000 $600,000,000,000 $400,000,000,000 $200,000,000,000 $2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
Source: World Bank
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2000
2015 2015 growth forecast at 7%
It is now producing annual economic growth equivalent to the entire annual economic output of Switzerland, the tenth largest economy. economic alliances with countries that already have established high technology industries, notably Germany. Although China has its problems, it would seem unwise to bet against its continuing success. However, such confidence in its economic future does not necessarily mean that now is a good time for investors to buy into the Chinese stock market. The increased affluence of Chinese consumers brings with it increased affordability
for investing and it is no secret that the Chinese love to gamble; buying shares has a particular appeal such that over 8 million new accounts were opened with stock brokers in China during the first quarter of 2015. Technology companies in particular are trading on sky high valuations of up to 140 times last year’s earnings and the Shenzhen Composite Index, which is heavily weighted to technology companies, has almost tripled over the last 12 months. It would seem that there is a bubble waiting to burst‌ For the time being, as an investor, it would appear that the safest way to derive benefit from China’s economic success is to target companies that are listed on established stock exchanges but have a strong trading presence in China. Please contact us if you would like to benefit from our insight in this area. l
essence info Simon Lewis is writing on behalf of Partridge Muir & Warren Ltd (PMW), Chartered Financial Planners, based in Esher. The Company has specialised in providing wealth management solutions to private clients for 46 years. Simon is an independent financial adviser, chartered financial planner and chartered fellow of the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment. The opinions outlined in this article are those of the writer and should not be construed as individual advice. To find out more about financial advice and investment options please contact Simon at Partridge Muir & Warren Ltd. Partridge Muir & Warren Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Telephone: 01372 471 550 Email: simon.lewis@pmw.co.uk Website: www.pmw.co.uk
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Creating a balanced childhood:
challenge vs risk Michael Connolly, headmaster of Cranmore School, considers to what extent we should encourage children to take risks.
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he last decade has produced numerous newspaper articles on how far parents and teachers should allow young children to take risks. Unfortunately some high profile incidents do make the national press from time to time and this re-opens the debate about equipping children to handle everyday risks from crossing a busy road to riding a bike. Roger Geffen, campaigns director for the national cycling charity CTC, said: “Although cycle use has increased, serious injuries and deaths to cyclists are increasing faster. The Government needs to respond to the Get Britain Cycling report, which called for substantial investment in cycling facilities, lower speeds and better traffic law enforcement to improve cycle safety as we encourage more people to cycle.”
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Legislation Some might argue that we are now smothered by so much health and safety regulation that the traditional freedoms and creativity of children are under threat. Clearly a sensible parent or teacher does not wish any child to come to harm. However, this must be balanced against the need for children to have first-hand experiences of challenging situations which will not only develop their skills but increase their confidence and selfesteem too. It is no surprise that ‘adventure holidays’ remain popular and one of the market leaders used by an enormous number of schools – PGL – has been going from strength to strength since 1957. Of course, in the current climate, it is taken for granted that all staff must be fully trained and qualified to lead children in the various activities from canoeing to high ropes. Everyone would agree that this is how it should be as I can well
remember back in the eighties that teachers were often expected to supervise activities, usually sport, which had inherent risks without having the necessary expertise.
Outdoor education The concept of outdoor education has evolved from the traditional school trip with a few nights away in a rural setting to a regular, managed, programme which can operate all year round. This is particularly true of schools such as Cranmore which have embraced the concept of operating a Forest School for the youngest pupils from the nursery to age seven. Educationalists recognise the dangers of children spending too much time sitting in front of a screen, either a tv or pc, and therefore there is a need to inculcate a love of the outdoors at the earliest opportunity. With a Forest School programme children have a regular visit to a
essence education
dedicated woodland where they can engage in all manner of activities including science, art and even imaginative play. Often there is a proper camp fire with children sitting around it too, what an adventure!
The way ahead There has been much talk of an Olympic legacy, but what does this mean in practice? At the very least it must surely include a clear commitment for young children to develop a passion for sport and understand its lifelong benefits from both a health and social perspective. Of course, if we wish to compete on the international stage in sport we must get children interested at an earlier age before they become addicted to mobile devices. We must embrace the notion that it is perfectly normal for them to engage in a wide variety of sports, some more dangerous than others. One might
immediately think of rugby, rowing or skiing as posing the greatest risk, but generations of pupils at schools such as Cranmore have gained much from being involved in these pursuits. Ironically, one of the worst injuries I recall from my early career was a boy playing badminton who slipped and sustained a nasty gash to his head! This long journey of assessing and managing risks begins in early childhood and by the teenage years many will have achieved the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award whilst others will go on to volunteer with Raleigh International to work on key projects in the Third World. In conclusion, it is vital that both parents and teachers allow young children to have exciting, challenging experiences so that they will develop their psychomotor and cognitive skills and grow into confident young adults who are neither reckless nor timid in ‘having a go’. l
essence info Cranmore School Cranmore School educates girls from two and a half to seven years and boys from two and a half to thirteen years. It is committed to providing a balanced curriculum which can develop each child’s potential. This includes a Forest School so that the youngest pupils from the nursery onwards can experience real ‘outdoors education’. Telephone: 01483 280340 Website: www.cranmoreprep.co.uk
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essence long haul
Go Goa Goa is India’s smallest and wealthiest state, attracting more than two million tourists annually drawn to its beautiful beaches thronged with swaying palm trees, the sedate pace of life and World Heritage architecture. Goa, ruled by the Portuguese for nearly 500 years, offers visitors a fascinating insight into a rich and vibrant culture and a colourful history, says Rebecca Underwood.
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o discover Goa’s historical Portuguese influence visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage site and an outstanding example of baroque architecture. Located in Old Goa, the basilica is the final resting place of St. Francis Xavier, a Basque Roman Catholic missionary who co-founded the Society of Jesus. Known as the Apostle of the Indies, he is considered one of the most notable missionaries and pilgrims from all over the world visit this site to view his elaborately decorated silver casket. The Basilica, consecrated in 1605, is recognised as a landmark of Christianity. The Sé Cathedral, the largest church in India, is also located in Old Goa. The cathedral, completed in 1619, was built to celebrate the victory of the Portuguese over a Muslim army, which resulted in the capture of Goa. This spectacular building
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reflects Portuguese-Manueline architecture and features an impressive Tuscan exterior and magnificent Corinthian interior, where several elaborate paintings are displayed and the baptismal font, dating back to 1532, was used by St. Francis Xavier. Panaji, the capital of Goa, lies on the banks of the Madovi River and on the main square is another striking example of baroque architecture. Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, surrounded by tall palm trees, features an ornate white façade with a large church bell installed in 1871. This beautiful church was once a chapel, built by the Portuguese in 1541. Panaji, at the time, was the first port of call for Portuguese vessels sailing from Lisbon and ships’ crews would frequent the chapel. The church was rebuilt in 1691 and is one of Goa’s main attractions. >
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: top tip
ion format more in partment d n a s For rate eia de Goa a s.co.uk/ g Ald aylettin on the w.holid 50031 w w it vis /16 /panjim rentals
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For nature lovers, an early morning visit to the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary offers the ideal opportunity to admire the feathered residents and to hear spellbinding birdsong. The sanctuary is located on the western tip of Charao Island and can be reached easily by taking the ferry from Ribandar Wharf, a fifteen minute taxi ride from Panaji. This lush mangrove swamp covers 1.8 square kilometres and a wide variety of migratory and local birds, including western reef heron and striated heron, little bittern, black bittern, red knot and jack snipe are attracted to this area. Flying foxes, jackals and crocodiles have been spotted and the recently erected watchtower is the perfect spot to survey the beautiful surroundings. To view another example of Mother Nature’s beauty, and to experience an unforgettable adventure, visit Dudhsagar Falls, located on the Mandovi River, 60 kilometres from Panaji. Although the site is not easy to access and involves some arduous trekking for the inexperienced, visitors will be richly rewarded with a wonderful view of four tiers of cascading water tumbling down from over 300 metres. Take a dip in the cool waters, but beware of inquisitive local monkeys keen to examine the contents of unattended bags! Goa offers an extensive selection of exotic beaches including Baga Beach, known for its crowded parties, enthusiastic nightlife and an abundance of beach shacks serving fresh seafood dishes. The popular water sports and dolphin cruises attract hordes and national wind surfing competitions take place every year from September to November. For those seeking an uninterrupted afternoon snooze, Miramar Beach in Panjim is the ideal spot as there
are no beach shacks and a more laid back vibe. For a good massage, head for the Goa Marriott Resort and Spa, only a short walk from Miramar beach. The Quan Spa offers a first class choice of treatments, facials and massages including the outstanding Goan Magic: 90 minutes of therapy massage which rejuvenates the body and mind and the soothing application of Tridosha oil is just the ticket for weary travellers. To partake in a pre-dining cocktail or two, stop by the Waterfront Terrace and Bar and relax in style. For a first class ‘al fresco’ dining experience, consider the hotel’s impressive Simply Grills restaurant; select a table overlooking the sparkling waters of the Arabian Sea and sample the Tiger prawns marinated in spicy Goan curry. Delicious! Accommodation options in Goa include the usual luxury hotel chains, but for those who prefer more privacy and space, consider a high end 2,000 square feet, three bedroom ground floor apartment within Aldeia de Goa, a gated community in Bambolim, just seven kilometres from Miramar Beach. This fully air conditioned apartment features a spacious open plan lounge and dining area with contemporary furnishings. The fully fitted kitchen has every appliance to ensure guests feel at home and there are three enormous double en suite bedrooms with comfortable beds and luxurious bedding. The patio features a seating area and offers direct access to a gymnasium and an open air heated swimming pool surrounded by beautiful,
well-maintained gardens scented with frangipani and partially shaded by a tall banyan tree. Other facilities include secure onsite parking, or take advantage of the services of a local driver which can be arranged by the property owner. For those wishing to dine out, the Grand Hyatt Hotel is within the Aldeia de Goa complex and offers a wide range of impressive restaurants, including Chulha which features an open kitchen where guests are welcome to observe and interact with chefs preparing a wide range of delicious authentic Indian and local dishes. For those who wish to experience first class seafood dining, the Verandah restaurant, under the expert eye of Chef Narasinh Kamath, who once worked for Raymond Blanc, presents an outstanding array of succulent dishes. For a more casual affair, visit the Dining Room where a sumptuous buffet extravaganza includes Asian, Indian, Italian and Middle Eastern options. Afternoon tea is served daily in the beautiful Bay View Lounge: a selection of dainty sandwiches with an assortment of delicious pastries and piping hot tea are served with aplomb. Why not work off those calories with a brisk walk back to the apartment or create a frenzy of activity in the gymnasium? Or perhaps just take a relaxing afternoon nap by the pool! Goa offers all this and more. l Goa images courtesy of the Goa Tourism Development Corporation. For more information visit www.goa-tourism.com
Paper tags © Andreykuzmin | Dreamstime.com
essence long haul
Stop by Mumbai For those considering a stopover in Mumbai, the luxurious ITC Maratha Hotel on Sahar Road is only two kilometres from the international airport and five kilometres from the domestic airport. This striking property reflects a fusion of Gothic revival and Indo Saracenic architecture and with the combination of long casement windows and pastel hued sandstone columns, the sweeping façade invokes a sense of contemporary elegance and old colonial charm. Rooms are beautifully furnished, spacious and comfortable and the service is first class. For guests staying in the Towers’ section of the property, privileges include the service of a butler, access to the Towers Club Lounge and a complimentary American breakfast. The hotel features a spacious swimming pool, impressive fitness centre, excellent spa and a beauty salon. ITC Hotels are renowned for their exceptional restaurants and Peshawri, which presents an extensive array of delicious dishes including the most succulent kebabs, is highly acclaimed. For a more casual ia affair, the popular Peshwar Pavilion is open twenty r Goa v part fo m London e d four hours and presents a buffet extravaganza and s y ro wa Jet Air twice daily f ss offers a wide range of Indian and international dishes to suit la ai C b r , m ie u M Prem onfiguration . every palate. w o r h c t d a n e Heat a s For those preferring to venture further to eat, access gbone herrin g easy aisle ment in visit the Glasshouse at the Hyatt Regency, which is in a provid bed. Entert choice t e a a short walk away. This spacious and contemporary fl iv s e a li d xten es an e nd Bollywoo u d restaurant presents an elaborate buffet with an open lu c a in d e o m o ht n yw kitchen where a frenzy of chefs create a wide variety of Holl nd the in flig of a n s of tasty dishes, including traditional Indian thalis. movie wide selectio panied m a o c s When you stopover in Mumbai and explore the es. s ac offer s dishe d Champagn u io c li n city’s heritage and culture in depth, benefit from a more de r a o s e win .com by fine w.jetairways profound and authentic experience with Break-Away w w . it 9 Vis 119 which creates customised tours to incorporate personal 08 101 call 08 interests. For more information, visit www. break-away.in.
: top tip
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essence photography
FROZEN IN TIME American photographer Tyler Shields’ new exhibition ‘Historical Fiction’ was shot in locations across the United States over a period of twelve months through to early 2015. essence takes a look at the controversial artist’s work.
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istorical Fiction comprises large-scale, colour-saturated and black and white photographs of Tyler’s powerful interpretations of iconic moments and individual reactions to 1960s American political and pop culture history. Subject matter includes the first men on the moon, the disbanding of The Beatles, the golden age of air travel, racial violence and the deaths of sixties’ icons James Dean, John F. Kennedy, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Marilyn Monroe. “No matter what age you are and no matter where you were, tragic moments in history such as 9/11, JFK and Martin Luther King, Jr.’s assassinations impact us. Other moments may influence us in a different way and can have a lasting effect: like first time travel in an airplane, being inspired by art, seeing a magic trick or falling in love,” says Tyler. He continues: “With Historical Fiction, I have tried to create a narrative of history frozen in time.”
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Websites: www.tylershields.com, www.andrewweiss.com Girl Running from Plane
American Flag
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JFK
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Background image: Martin Luther King - All images Š Tyler Shields.
Pan Am Lounge
Marilyn Monroe
The Death of James Dean
Artist profile Tyler Shields is known for his provocative and sometimes controversial work. Born in 1982 in Jacksonville, Florida, he began his photography career there in 2003 and published his first book just two years later. Tyler has had over twenty solo exhibitions worldwide including Imitate Modern, London; Miller Gallery, Cincinnati, Ohio; Samuel Lynne Gallery, Dallas, Texas; Guy Hepner Gallery, Los Angeles, California and Andrew Weiss Gallery, Santa Monica, California. The photographer has published three books and has a fourth on the way for 2016. He lives and works in Los Angeles, California.
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Helping you get the right independent financial advice Understanding how to fund your care is important and following changes to the Care Act 2014 the county council is now obliged by law to advise you, our local residents, on how to find independent financial advice to help you with your care arrangements. We’ve teamed up with the Society of Later Life Advisors (SOLLA) who can help you find a suitably qualified financial adviser near to where you live. They’ll be able to help you make the right choices when planning for later life or help with care costs. To find out how SOLLA can help you call them on 0845 303 2909 or visit societyoflaterlifeadvisers.co.uk and simply enter your postcode and select from a list of local advisers. Please note there may be charges for some services that the financial advisers provide.
Supporting a lo ve has dementia ca d one who n be extremely difficult, so wh en June’s health deteriorated he r they would nee family knew d to seek help. SOLLA’s advisors a specialist dem recommended e home close to ntia care the family and provided a dv best way to fun ice for the d without using a June’s care ll of her savings. When 84 year old widow Betty suffered a stroke, she was no longer able to cope alone, but was determined to stay in her own home. The SOLLA advisor recommended a livein care agency and drew up a finance plan, helping Betty s entitled to to get the financial support she wa ra care, even if and to budget for the cost of ext ure. Betty was her circumstances changed in fut loved and delighted to stay in the home she be had peace of mind that she would financially secure.
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essence health
Ready for radiant skin this summer? Summer is upon us and aesthetician Naomi Diamond of The Epsom Skin Clinic is on hand to recommend treatments to help optimise our appearance.
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M
y first recommendation to achieve the optimum summer glow, would be to book a consultation with a recognised skin therapist. At The Epsom Skin Clinic this consists of a 30 to 45 minute appointment where a therapist will determine the best skincare plan, tailor made for the client. During this consultation, the therapist will listen to client concerns and discuss a variety of options from laser hair and facial redness reduction to more general skin conditions. In our experience, it is preferable to book a consultation at least six to eight months in advance, particularly if wishing to discuss more specific concerns or problematic skin. However, there are a few treatments that will help in the short term making skin appear smoother, healthier and more flawless. Keep in mind that any plan will be matched with home care products to support any in-clinic treatments and to provide best results. We see a lot of press about Botox and dermal filler treatments, not all of it good! However, these treatments are nothing to be scared of. Botox is an injectable that minimises muscle movement and therefore prevents and softens wrinkles; it can obliterate that annoying frown line! After an initial treatment, there’s normally a follow-up appointment two weeks later just to tweak any results and effects can last anything from three to six months. Dermal fillers help to plump skin, giving it back a youthful appearance by using hyaluronic acid, a hydrating ingredient found naturally in the skin. The acid holds up to 1,000 times its own weight in water and can enhance natural beauty by subtly adding volume where, for example, age or weight loss has taken its toll. These treatments will I am sure spark major confidence boosting comments such as: “You’re looking well” or “Your skin’s looking great!”. For those not wanting injectables, but still interested in reducing fine lines and wrinkles or improving skin texture, there’s eDermastamp. This creates tiny channels in the skin that allow
peptide rich products or hyaluronic acid to penetrate deeper. The treatment also promotes collagen and elastin production and encourages cell turnover. Results are smoother, more radiant skin with fine lines and wrinkles appearing more subtle and reduced. eDermastamp can be made more intense for those with acne scarring. Combined with microdermabrasion, it can improve texture and tone whilst re-educating skin to make the appearance more even. The process involves one treatment every six weeks and needs around four treatments in total. Skin peels and microdermabrasion are a great way to finish off a series of treatments or, if time is short, working more superficially, these treatments can make dull, tired and uneven complexions appear brighter and feel silkier. Microdermabrasion uses small crystals and vacuum suction to deeply exfoliate and bring fresh nutrients to the skin to refresh and replenish. There are many different skin peels containing various chemical exfoliants (fruit acids etc). These penetrate to different levels of the skin evening out tone, helping with spots and imperfections, improving pore size and generally making the skin appear healthier and brighter. The two treatments can be combined for a more intense result and at the Clinic we can also pamper with a hydrating or vitamin C mask for a real boost. Finally, for those who may not have thought about it, microdermabrasion for the back can be essential for those revealing a little skin. My tip is to have a treatment at least ten days before a spray tan to help the tan spread more evenly for that beautiful, sun kissed look.
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essence info Epsom Skincare Clinics Website: www.epsomskinclinics.com Telephone: 01372 737280 (Epsom) or 020 8399 5996 (Surbiton)
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essence events
spotlight on... Hampton Court Palace Festival 2015 Hampton Court Thursday 11 to Tuesday 23 June Taking place in the stunning Tudor Courtyard of the Palace, this year sees some world class acts performing at the Festival: Thursday 11 and Friday 12 June: Jools Holland & his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra; Saturday 13 June: Fanfare & Fireworks; Sunday 14 June: John Wilson & The John Wilson Orchestra; Tuesday 16 and Thursday 18 June: Paloma Faith (pictured right); Wednesday 17 June: A double bill of comedy with Alan Davies and Paul Merton’s Impro Chums; Friday 19 June: Alfie Boe; Saturday 20 June: Peter Andre; Tuesday 23 June: Burt Bacharach. East Front Gardens will open at 5.30pm for drinks and eats or why not bring a picnic and relax in the gardens before the show?
Information and tickets: hamptoncourtpalacefestival.com
Richmond Theatre Richmond Tuesday 9 to Wednesday 10 June Northern Ballet: Madame Butterfly and Perpetuum Mobile Two ballets in one evening from this superb dance company. Wednesday 10 June Northern Ballet: Elves & the Shoemaker A fairy tale ballet for children. Tuesday 23 to Saturday 27 June Constellations A new play about free will and friendship starring Louise Brealey. Monday 29 June to Saturday 4 July Birdsong An adaptation of Sebastian Faulks’ famous novel. Tickets: 0844 871 7651 or ambassadortickets.com/richmond
New Victoria Theatre Woking Monday 8 to Saturday 20 June The Sound of Music A new production of one of the greatest musicals of all time chronicling the singing von Trapp family’s escape to freedom.
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Wednesday 24 to Thursday 25 June Octonauts and the Deep Sea Adventure A brand new live stage show. Friday 26 June The Three Degrees An evening of favourites from the American female vocal group. Sunday 28 June An intimate evening with Russell Watson A unique opportunity to hear ‘The Voice’. Monday 29 June to Saturday 4 July East is East A revival of Ayub Khan Din’s modern comedy classic. Tickets: 0844 871 7645 or ambassadortickets.com/woking
Rose Theatre Kingston-upon-Thames Thursday 11 to Sunday 14 June Stick Man Puppetry, songs and live music for children aged three and over. Sunday 21 to Monday 22 June Ockham’s Razor – Triple Bill Acclaimed triple bill of Arc, Memto Mori and Every Action... from this innovative performance company. Information: 020 8174 0090 or rosetheatrekingston.org
Paloma Faith/Hampton Court Palace Festival
theatre
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essence events Guildford Thursday 11 to Saturday 13 June Carousel Classic musical from Performance Preparation Academy. Friday 26 June Wilde without the Boy An hour with a chastened – but still amusing – Oscar Wilde in his cell.
Grahame’s much-loved classic opens GSC’s tenth open air season at the award-winning Watts Gallery. Information: 01483 304384 or guildford-shakespeare-company.co.uk
Woodhouse Copse Holmbury St Mary, Dorking
Farnham Maltings
Saturday 20 to Sunday 21 June Alice at Woodhouse Copse A performance of dance, music and words to mark the 150th year of The Adventures of Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll.
Farnham
Tickets: 01483 444789 or 01483
Friday 19 June A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Alice Holt Forest Chapterhouse Theatre Company perform Shakespeare’s best-loved romantic comedy in the beautiful Alice Holt Forest. Tuesday 23 June The Reduced Shakespeare Company A fast-paced romp through all 37 of the Bard’s plays.
444334 or guildford.gov.uk
Information: 01483 444789 or electrictheatre.co.uk
Information: 01252 745444 or farnhammaltings.com
Yvonne Arnaud Theatre Guildford Thursday 11 to Saturday 13 June It’s A Wonderful Life Frank Capra’s iconic film retold as a radio play. Monday 22 to Saturday 27 June The History Boys Alan Bennett’s funny and moving play about the true purpose of education.
Photo by Jason Tozer
The Electric Theatre
Ayana Kanda as Madame Butterfly, Richmond Theatre
Tickets: 01483 440000
G Live
or yvonne-arnaud.co.uk
Guildford
Tickets: 0844 7701797 or glive.co.uk
Guildford Fringe Festival The Star Inn, Quarry St, Guildford Wednesday 1 to Thursday 2 July Colder than Here Local group, Pranksters Theatre Company, open the Guildford Fringe Festival with a production of Laura Wade’s acclaimed comedy.
music The Boileroom Guildford Friday 12 to Saturday 13 June Guildford Beer Festival The GBF is again working with Andertons Music and The Boileroom to assemble some of the best local bands and artists to perform at the Festival. See website for more details. theboileroom.net
Cranleigh Arts Centre Cranleigh
guildfordfringefestival.com
Thursday 18 June, 8.30pm Eugene ‘Hideaway’ Bridges Born in New Orleans, Eugene is a towering man with a huge voice who plays an unsurpassed blend of soulful blues.
Watts Gallery, Compton Thursday 11 to Saturday 27 June The Wind in the Willows Brand-new adaptation of Kenneth
The Sound of Music, New Victoria Theatre, Woking
Information: 01483 440022 or
Information: 01483 361101 or
Guildford Shakespeare Company
Photo by Pamela Raith
Wednesday 10 to Thursday 11 June Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom A show full of games and songs. Monday 29 June to Thursday 2 July Lord of the Dance: Dangerous Games New staging of the traditional show.
Information: 01483 278000 or cranleighartscentre.org
56 www.essence-magazine.co.uk Eugene ‘Hideaway’ Bridges, Cranleigh Arts Centre
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spotlight on... RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show Hampton Court Gluttony designed by Katerina Rafaj 2014. © RHS/Sarah Cuttle
Tuesday 30 June to Sunday 5 July 2015 marks the 25th year of the RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show so there’ll be lots of themed events marking this silver anniversary, including floristry, historic gardens and scarecrows celebrating the past. Around 130,000 visitors are welcomed to the world’s largest flower show every year with three zones, Grow, Feast and Inspire, having their own distinctive themes and flavours. In Grow, don’t miss the 6,750 square metre Floral Marquee where more than 100 award-winning nurseries and growers will be on display with opportunities to buy from a huge array of plants. In Feast, visitors can sample a variety of fine foods and produce, with stunning show gardens on display. And finally, Inspire includes the Floristry Marquee, displaying the very best in creative floral art, along with conceptual gardens, trade stands, gardening advice and the Festival of Roses, an old favourite at the Show.
Tickets: 0844 338 0338 or rhs.org.uk
Dorking Halls Dorking Friday 12 June The Blues Band Celebrating a 35 year anniversary. Information: 01306 881717 or dorkinghalls.co.uk
Epsom Downs Racecourse Epsom Thursday 9 July An evening at the races with Madness The nutty boys perform hits from a career spanning five decades.
exhibitions The Art Agency Esher Tuesday 2 June to Monday 6 July Featured artist: Pam Carter Born in Tanganyika, east Africa, Pam came to Scotland at the age of thirteen. The artist’s main inspiration is in the Scottish land and seascape. Pam predominantly paints in oils and her work is in numerous private and public collections, including the Royal Bank of Scotland.
The Fircroft Summer Exhibition
Museum of Farnham
off New Road, Albury Heath
Information: 01483 202333 or
Until August 2015 Contemporary Fashion Exhibition A request from the Young Curators Collective at the Museum for outfits to be donated or lent from the local community. They are looking for fashion which tells a story to be included in an exhibition at the Museum in August. Can you help?
fircroft.info
Information: 07805 417957 or
Until Sunday 14 June Bringing together the work of more than fifty artists and makers from across the country, chosen by artist Frank Taylor and wife Christine. Entry is free with works showcased in the Victorian house and gardens.
farnhammaltings.com/museum
Guildford Cathedral Stag Hill, Guildford
Friday 26 June The Kast Off Kinks Former members of the legendary band perform the hits.
The David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation Gallery
Monday 8 June to Saturday 8 August Commemoration of Magna Carta A facsimile of the Magna Carta document will be on display at the Cathedral forming the centrepiece of a number of events.
Shalford, Guildford
Information: guildford-cathedral.org
Information: 01372 742555/742227 or
Sunday 5 July, 6.30pm Light and Shade: Music for summertime Including Purcell, Mancini and more.
Monday 1 to Tuesday 30 June ‘Wild Calling’ by Sue Payton Sue Payton finds herself drawn to paint endangered mammals, especially big cats, African hunting dogs and wolves. She works mostly in oils. All sales support endangered wildlife. Gallery open Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm.
Tickets: 01252 783977 or occamsingers.co.uk
Tickets: epsomdowns.co.uk
Information: 01372 466740 or
Epsom Playhouse
The Occam Singers St Mary’s Church, Guildford
The Lightbox Gallery and Museum Woking
Saturday 27 June to Sunday 6 September International Garden Photographer of the Year A collection of winning images from this prestigious competition.
Until Sunday 28 June ‘Below the Surface’ Work from ten members of the Chobham-based artists co-operative. Until Sunday 28 June The Ingram Collection: Planes, Trains and Automobiles A show exploring a rich source of inspiration for artists fascinated by the world surrounding them. Until Sunday 5 July Damien Hirst: New Religion A body of work from the artist illustrates Hirst’s belief that “science is the new religion for many people”.
Information: 01483 272323 or
Information: 01483 444751 or
Information: 01483 737800 or
davidshepherd.org
guildford.gov.uk/guildfordhouse
thelightbox.org.uk
theartagency.co.uk
Epsom
epsomplayhouse.co.uk
West Street, Farnham
Guildford House Gallery High Street, Guildford
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essence events
Cranleigh Arts Centre 01483 278000 or cranleighartscentre.org Farnham Maltings 01252 745444 or farnhammaltings.com Odeon Esher 0871 2244007 or odeon.co.uk/fanatic/film_times/s89/esher Odeon Epsom 0871 2244007 or odeon.co.uk/fanatic/film_times/s88/epsom Odeon Guildford 0871 2244007 or odeon.co.uk/fanatic/film_times/s92/guildford The Screen Walton 01932 252825 or screencinemas.co.uk The Ambassadors Cinema, Woking 0844 871 6743 or ambassadortickets.com/cinema
McAllister Thomas
Arts Partnership Surrey
Godalming
Various
To Tuesday 30 June Amelia Humber: A Scottish Tapestry Featuring oil paintings showcasing the atmosphere and emotion of the landscape north of the border.
Throughout June WW1: Surrey Remembers Four original screen prints, chosen from Surrey artist submissions, based on the legacy of WW1.
Information: 01483 860591 or
Information: surreyopenstudios.org.uk
Courtesy Libby January/Fircroft
cinemas
Koi Capers by Libby January, The Fircroft Summer Exhibition
New Ashgate Gallery
Surrey Sculpture Society Exhibition
Farnham
Loseley Park, Guildford
To Saturday 27 June Printmakers Council 50:50 An exhibition celebrating the Council’s 50th anniversary.
Tuesday 30 June to Monday 27 July Art in the Garden An inspiring sculpture trail. Information: surreysculpture.org.uk
Information: 01252 713208 or newashgate.org.uk
Watts Gallery Compton, Guildford
Royal Holloway Picture Gallery Egham To Friday 19 June Magna Carta and the Loss of Liberties in Victorian Art Twelve exceptional paintings from Royal Holloway’s world-class art collections celebrating 800 years of Magna Carta. Free entry. Information: 01784 434455 or royalholloway.ac.uk
Tuesday 16 June to Sunday 1 November The Art of Bedlam: Richard Dadd An exhibition exploring this troubled Victorian painter remembered for his depictions of mystical subjects.
Father’s Day at the National Trust
Information: 01483 813593 or wattsgallery.org.uk
festivals
The Hannah Peschar Sculpture Garden
Guildford Beer Festival
Ockley
Information: 01306 627269 or
Friday 12 and Saturday 13 June The sixth annual Guildford Beer Festival celebrates over 70 varied cask ales and ciders. Entertainment includes Surrey’s top local bands performing throughout the Festival.
hannahpescharsculpture.com
Tickets: guildfordbeerfestival.co.uk
Until Saturday 31 October Summer Exhibition 140 exhibition pieces set within a beautiful garden.
© NT Arnhel de Serra
mcallisterthomasfineart.co.uk
Guildford Cricket Club
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Guildford Summer Festival Guildford Friday 12 June to Saturday 8 August The Festival returns for its 32nd year with over 100 different events. including the Festival Craft Fair, Cricket Festival and Guildford Lions Raft Race. See website for details. Information: 01483 444333 or guildfordsummerfestival.co.uk
out & about Armed Forces Day Stoke Park, Guildford Saturday 27 June Hundreds of events will take place to celebrate the Day across the country. In Guildford, there’ll be a military parade with static displays in Stoke Park.
Runnymede Music Festival 2015
Information: armedforcesday.org.uk
Various venues
Birtley House
Dogfest
RHS Garden Wisley
Sunday 7 June to Saturday 4 July A celebration of local music supporting the anniversary of the sealing of Magna Carta.
Bramley
Loseley Park, Guildford
Woking
Sunday 14 June, 11am–4pm Rare Plant Fair Buy direct from growers.
Sunday 21 June Hosted by Supervet Noel Fitzpatrick.
Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 June Father’s Day Weekend Celebrate the weekend in style.
Information: runnymede.gov.uk
Tickets: 0845 468 1368 or rareplantfair.co.uk
national trust Claremont Landscape Garden Esher
Brooklands Museum Weybridge Saturday 13 to Sunday 14 June The Brooklands Double Twelve Motorsport Festival Celebrating Brookland’s rich motoring history.
Sunday 21 June, 11am–6pm Father’s Day Surrey Classic Vehicle Club display.
Information: 01932 857381 or
Information: 01372 467806
Claygate Country Five Mile Run
Polesden Lacey
Claygate Recreation Ground
Great Bookham, near Dorking
Sunday 5 July, 10.30am Join 500 runners in four age groups for this event around Claygate’s green countryside.
Saturday 13 and Saturday 20 June, from 2pm Pop-up Shakespeare Famous scenes from Bard plays set around the Polesden gardens. Information: 01372 452048
brooklandsmuseum.com
Information: claygatecountryfive.com
Claygate Flower & Village Show
Surrey Hills
Claygate Recreation Ground
near Dorking Friday 19 and Friday 26 June, 7.30–10.30pm Nighttime safari on Leith Hill A chance to see badgers and more.
Saturday 11 July, from 1.30pm Including a tug of war competition, ferret racing, juggling, unicycle feats, village games, children’s fancy dress parade and so much more.
Information: 01372 220644
Information: claygateflowershow.co.uk
Winkworth Arboretum
Cranleigh Show
Godalming
Cranleigh Showground
Sunday 21 June, 11am–4pm Father’s Day and have-a-go archery Experts are on hand to assist. Information: 01483 208477 or
Sunday 21 June, from 8am A traditional agricultural show, but this year including scurry racing and Dylan’s Stuntworld.
nationaltrust.org.uk
Information: cranleighshow.co.uk
Brooklands Double Twelve Motorsport Festival speed trials
Information: dog-fest.co.uk
Information: rhs.org.uk/wisley
Farnham Carnival Farnham
Surrey Wildlife Trust
Saturday 27 June Includes a fayre and procession.
Chertsey Meads
Information: farnhamcarnival.org.uk
Magna Carta River Pageant/Relay
Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 June BioBlitz 2015 Learn more about the wildlife at the Meads. See website for details. Information 01483 795471 or
Hurley Riverside to Runnymede Pleasure Ground
surreywildlifetrust.org
Saturday 13 to Sunday 14 June Charter bearers transport a facsimile of Magna Carta downstream.
sport
Information: thamesalive.org.uk
Epsom Racecourse Epsom
Painshill Park Sunday 21 June Free entry for dads on Father’s Day Spend a day with dad in the beautiful Painshill landscape.
Friday 5 and Saturday 6 June The Investec Derby Festival The greatest flat race in the world returns where spectators can enjoy spectacular horseracing, fashion and an unbeatable atmosphere.
Information: 01932 868113 or
Tickets: 0844 579 3004 or
painshill.co.uk
epsomdowns.co.uk
Cobham
farmers’ markets Camberley Saturday 20 June, 10am–3pm Cranleigh Saturday 20 June, 10am–2pm Epsom Sunday 7 June and 5 July, 9am–1.30pm Farnham Sunday 21 June, 10am–1.30pm Guildford Tuesday 2 June and 7 July, 10.30am–3.30pm Haslemere Sunday 7 June and 5 July, 10am–1pm Milford Sunday 21 June, 10am–1.30pm Ripley Saturday 13 June and 11 July, 9am–1pm Walton-on-Thames Saturday 6 June and 4 July, 9.30am–2pm Woking Thursday 18 June, 9am–2.30pm
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essence interiors
The home office A beautiful home office can increase productivity and be a really uplifting space. Jenny Allan from JCA Interiors looks into the best ways to create this.
H
ome offices have the potential to be fantastic rooms and they can be designed in certain ways to improve workflow and efficiency. Careful consideration and design are key to making the space a success. Obviously the real star of the show in an office is the desk and the bigger or more ornate it is the more impressive it will appear. Spend time considering the desk materials, as they should be included throughout the design within the shelving or other units to make the space cohesive. Make sure the desk is relative to the room size and is in the best position for lighting, ideally near a window. If possible, position the desk facing a view as this a real bonus and can bring a sense of calm to the working environment, encouraging positive workflow. Comfort should be a top priority in the selection of office furniture, with desk and chair heights needing to work perfectly together. Look for ergonomically designed chairs and perhaps invest in a bespoke desk made to the perfect height. As Coco Chanel said, “luxury must be comfortable otherwise it is not luxury�. For further comfort, if space allows, include a more relaxed, informal living area with sofas and cushions, perhaps even adding a fireplace. This space is then ideal for encouraging creative thinking or watching TV to chill out while having a break. Fabrics play a large part in comfort and design while creating a sense of luxury. Leathers and velvets work well and have a timeless, elegant appeal, which will always be inviting. Consider the colour scheme carefully as different colours create different effects. Neutral colours are usually best as they
provide a calming backdrop, which is easy to work in. Navies and darker shades create a more dramatic appearance while lighter colours of creams, sands and greys can make the space seem bigger and more airy. It all depends on the size, location and natural lighting in the room. The real secret to a beautiful home office is storage. Everyone accumulates more items each day and having a place to store all paperwork, stationary, electronic equipment and files is key. We usually recommend having cupboards with beautiful doors built into the office as this will hide unsightly but necessary items, while having open shelving to display treasured possessions such as family photos, ornaments or awards. For these
items, which are on display, attention to detail is important when bringing the space together and finalising the room. Specifically selected and correctly positioned decorative items can give a stylish, polished look while being personal and homely. When a home office is well designed it will be comfortable, functional and luxurious, three elements conducive to getting work done. l
essence info Jenny Allan is founder of interior design company JCA interiors. Telephone: 020 3714 9325 Email: info@jcainteriors.co.uk Website: www.jcainteriors.co.uk
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essence property
Ice COOL W
ith over a century of experience and more than fifteen years of construction in the UK, this HUF HAUS show house at Brooklands marks a new era for the firm as it aims to become the most engineered house in Britain. Building on a history of sustainable construction and the company’s pedigree for delivering carbon neutral homes, each component of the new house has been designed and created in the HUF factory in Germany, ensuring the elimination of waste material during the construction entirely. The property utilises the latest technologies formulated by HUF HAUS to achieve the most efficient home possible. Sumptuous interiors and high-end features will demonstrate the concept of eco-luxury, proving that a luxury home doesn’t have to sacrifice its environmental consciousness. Glass synonymous with HUF HAUS architecture, unparalleled insulation, airtightness and fabric efficiency ensure the
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HUF HAUS, the company which pioneered luxury prefabricated timber and glass homes, has begun construction on a new show house at Brooklands. essence finds out more. floor to ceiling windows provide interiors with ample natural light. Photovoltaic panels on the south facing roof are calculated to generate more electricity than required, so the surplus can be used to power an electric car at the electrical 'fuelling' station in front of the house. Arguably the pièce de résistance is the heating system: the most efficient and technically advanced heating and cooling system of its kind. Using ice to heat the house, the system, which revolves around an underground ice storage tank, will initiate a new phase of heating residential properties in the UK. By harvesting the energy generated when ice turns to water, the house can be heated and cooled on demand. The property’s position next to a river highlights the adaptability of the design on land with a high water table. As such the show house has foregone the traditional basement and incorporates stilts to mitigate flood risk and protect structural integrity.
Chief executive officer of HUF HAUS, Georg Huf, confirms: “Our new UK show house demonstrates the architectural and technological advances achieved by the HUF HAUS engineers. Functions such as the heating with ice system that were beyond our comprehension when we built our original HUF house in the UK a decade ago, now come as standard as we strive to pioneer zero carbon efficiency.”
•
essence info HUF HAUS The new HUF show house will launch in July. For sales enquiries, please contact HUF HAUS on 01932 586550 or visit the website: www.huf-haus.com/en/home.html
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CGI Image
OXSHOTT
PRICE GUIDE AVAILABLE ON REQUEST
Nearing completion, Belvedere is a unique, distinctive family home (c. 8,000 sq. ft.). Set behind private gates and built in the ‘Arts & Crafts’ style it features exceptional living space. 5 family bedrooms, 7 reception areas, 3-car garage, 2 room guest suite and an amazing bonus room on the top floor. The master suite features a large south-west facing balcony with an outstanding distant view. The site area is about 0.8 acres. EPC – B. SOLE AGENTS
01372 843833
essence antiques
Jewellery
insider knowledge Thinking of purchasing jewellery this summer? Stephen Giles of Fryer & Brown Auctioneers in Cobham offers some advice on what to ask before you buy.
M
ost coloured stones set within modern jewellery on the market today are rubies, sapphires and numerous other less valuable stones. When buying a piece for investment always ask if the main gems are ‘heat treated’ as today above 95% of stones on offer in jewellers are treated stones, whereas most antique or vintage coloured stone jewels are of natural colour. Buyers may be told that the stones are natural rubies or sapphires, however, the crucial aspect is whether the colour is natural as this makes the pieces, and the intrinsic value of the stones, considerably more valuable. The sapphire and diamond engagement ring, estimate £800–£1,200, and diamond ring with emerald cut central stone, estimated at £700–£900, illustrated above left, are great examples. Another stone common today is Chinese Jade, i.e. Jadite, and again most of this is treated for colour enhancement and is worth very little. The Art Deco 1920s’
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platinum diamond and jade ring illustrated above right is a perfect example of a wonderful natural apple/emerald even green colour and the setting is further enhanced with six Swiss cut diamonds to the stepped shoulders. The estimate for this piece is £6,000–£8,000. Vintage jewels are ever popular and particularly Art Deco 1920-30s’ examples. The diamond, emerald and onyx pendant above centre is a beautiful example of an original piece that is much copied today in the Far East, Israel and Argentina, so always make sure when you buy an Art Deco jewel that it is indeed of the period and not just ‘style’; the fine stones and exquisite workmanship make this a particularly easy to wear jewel which would enhance any collection. The estimate for this pendant is £6,500–£7,500. The items illustrated in this article will be offered for sale at Fryer & Brown Auctioneers on Wednesday 24 June 2015. We hope to see you there! l
essence info Fryer & Brown Auctioneers Limited The Old Mill, Cobham Park Road, Downside, Cobham KT11 3PF Telephone: 01932 865026 Website: www.fryerandbrown.com Enquiries: stephengiles@fryerandbrown.com
Painting a colourful future...
Open Evening and GCSE / A Level Art Exhibition 4.30pm – 6.30pm June 11th 2015 Notre Dame School, Cobham 01932 869990
ASPIRE INVESTMENTS AND PROPERTY DEVELOPMENTS
Design Develop Desire
Would you like to relax in an award winning garden.* CALL ASPIRE TO FIND OUT HOW TO BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME
www.aspirellp.com | info@aspirellp.com | +44 (0)1372 365754 *Association of Professional Landscapers Awards 2014
Aspire-275x210-Advert-Essence GARDEN.indd 1
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