essence issue 102

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ISSUE 102 | JUNE 2019

More than luck Anna Wilson-Jones interview

Also inside this issue: HAUGHTY HYBRID New BMW 7 Series POOCH HEAVEN Dog-friendly breaks GIN RENAISSANCE A very English thing THE BEANO IS BACK! V Café in Guildford

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essence | NEWS ROUND-UP

Rock art

Rock ‘n’ roll’s beating heart, The Karma Sanctum Hotel in Soho, is the location for a three-day live art exhibition in June. Artist, fashion designer and musician Chloe Trujillo will team up with the central London hotel to showcase her art. The Karma Sanctum Hotel has a history of hosting rock royalty and previous guests include legends Alice Cooper, Blondie and Iron Maiden.

Website: www.chloetrujillo.com Instagram: chloetrujillo Facebook: Chloe Trujillo

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It’s a dog’s life

The UK’s largest dog welfare charity, Dogs Trust, is calling on all new puppy owners to sign up to its landmark Generation Pup study to track puppies through to adulthood. Participants will be able to keep a record of their dog’s journey which aims to shed light on why dogs react differently to the same situations. To sign up to Generation Pup, visit www.generationpup.ac.uk

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Situated in the heart of Mayfair, AllBright’s newest club has been designed by women, for women. A home-from-home for members, the club includes a European brasserie-style restaurant and bar, wellness floor, co-working space with in-house career coach and two large terraces with views over the rooftops.

Named after former USA Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, who famously said: “There’s a special place in hell for women who don’t help other women”, AllBright was founded by serial entrepreneur Debbie Wosskow OBE and former CEO of Hearst UK, Anna Jones, to help women build skills, confidence and connections.

contents Issue 102 | JUNE 2019

8 | Interview | ANNA WILSON-JONES

Actor Anna Wilson-Jones, best known as Emma Portman in the long-running ITV drama Victoria, talks to Andrew Peters about her varied career.

14 | Garden design | ALLADIO SIMS

A successful garden scheme must understand how to ‘light up’ plants and use them to their best effect.

Bella Alladio of Alladio Sims Garden Landscape Design Limited explains.

18 | Pastimes | DOG WALKING

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A country outing is all the more satisfying with a beloved four-legged friend. However, nothing is more frustrating than finding pooch is unwelcome.

Claire Zambuni sources dog-friendly establishments.

22 | Motoring | BMW

Euan Johns looks at the new BMW 7 Series, still a beacon for luxury and technological advance and one that embodies BMW chairman Harald Krüger’s wish for the marque’s most expensive cars to be ever-more luxurious.

26 | Drinks | GIN

With World Gin Day rapidly approaching, Kevin Pilley examines some local and national offerings in what continues to be a gin renaissance.

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29 | Tax | EVERFAIR TAX

Gillian Everall of Everfair Tax offers guidance to essence readers on the tax implications of being an ‘Accidental American’.

30 | Legal | MUNDAYS

Hannah Green and Julie Man of Mundays LLP look at how readers can benefit from seeking support in administering an estate following the death of someone close.

34 | Education | CRANMORE

From the Roman Empire to the Cold War, studying history helps pupils make sense of the present.

Michael Connolly, Headmaster of Cranmore School, examines the importance of history to a child’s education.

36 | Health | AUTISM

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Louise Alexander talks to Dr Lorene Amet D.Phil.

M.Ed., widely respected and known worldwide for her knowledge of autism in the academic, public and third sectors.

42 | Food review | STEPHANIE BROOKES

Stephanie Brookes, BBC Radio London food expert, offers her pick of an eating establishment for this month, Santo Remedio in Waterloo.

44 | Artisan food | EAT SURREY

Shirlee Posner welcomes back the V Café to The Guildford Institute: Guildford’s only totally vegetarian restaurant.

46 | Events | SURREY

Linda Seward’s diary of the best of what’s on in theatre, music, exhibitions, arts and the countryside.

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52 | Interior design | SABLE INTERIORS

Fiona Applegarth demonstrates the value of art in interior design.

54 | essence | PROPERTY

A selection of some of the area’s finest houses from Surrey’s best estate agents and developers.

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PHOTO COPYRIGHT: SANTO REMEDIO | NICK HOPPER

PHOTO COPYRIGHT: CRANMORE SCHOOL

34 essence 102 COVER: ANNA WILSON-JONES PHOTO COPYRIGHT: KIRK NEWMANN

essence team

Editor: Andrew Guilor Contributing editor: Louise Alexander Contributing editor: Claire Zambuni Publishing manager: Rebecca Peters Production manager: Linda Seward Designer: Sharon Smith Digital design: Jason Mayes telephone: 01932 988677 email: editor@essence-magazine.co.uk Commercial director: Jane Barnfield-Jukes telephone: 07795 206030 email: jane@essence-magazine.co.uk Advertising sales enquiries telephone: 07980 956488 email: marketing@essence-magazine.co.uk Contributors: Kevin Pilley, Andrew Peters, Euan Johns, Stephanie Brookes, Hannah Green, Julie Man, Linda Seward, Shirlee Posner, Gillian Everall, Claire Zambuni, Fiona Applegarth, Michael Connolly, Bella Alladio.

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 reaches 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 and all local town high streets.

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Precarious profession These days it could be argued most professions are precarious, after all, who knows in which direction AI will lead? How many current jobs will become obsolete? It’s a far cry from ‘the good old days’, if they ever were that good.

A friend’s son was, and I use the past tense, the stand-in for comedian and actor Jack Whitehall. I use the past tense as things didn’t go the way he expected, and he is now a showroom salesman for a well-known house builder.

An actor’s profession has always been unreliable, and you could argue requires a fair degree of luck. However, that’s not all. Hard work and talent go a long way towards making a success of acting, as this month’s interviewee Anna Wilson-Jones has proved. A huge talent lies behind a truly engaging personality and Anna’s extensive CV bears testament to this. Also in this month’s essence, Euan Johns discovers BMW has always used the 7 Series as a statement of its technological prowess, and its new addition continues this tradition.

Ever been frustrated at the end of a long walk to find the hostelry you’ve arrived at won’t allow dogs? Rest assured Claire Zambuni has unearthed some dog-friendly gems in Surrey and further afield. In addition, Bella Alladio of Alladio Sims Garden Design Limited looks at making the most of light in the garden and Kevin Pilley explores the continuing resurgence of that traditional English spirit, gin.

Stephanie Brookes enjoys Santo Remedio in Waterloo and Shirlee Posner rejoices in the return of the vegetarian V Café to Guildford. Louise Alexander interviews internationally-respected Dr Lorene Amet about her field of expertise, autism.

As always, this issue of essence has a mix of tax, legal, education and foodie advice, alongside not to be missed competitions. The diary of events offers places to visit and there’s a pick of some of the region’s finest properties.

The essence team

© Maple Publishing 2019 Maple Publishing Limited, Regus, Wellington Way, Brooklands Business Park, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 0TT

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Interview | ANNA WI SON- ONES

MORE THAN

JUST LUCK

Anna Wilson-Jones has been acting for over 20 years, with a resumé boasting credits in cult shows Black Mirror, Spaced and Waterloo Road. She is perhaps best known as Emma Portman in the long running ITV drama Victoria.

Normally seen in front of the camera, Anna recently swapped roles for short film The Visitor taking on the role of creator and producer. Anna talks to Andrew Peters about life, loves and her future.

Q Anna, you were born in Woking, attending Sir William Perkins School in Chertsey – do you have fond recollections of the town and return there at all?

A Yes! My parents still live near so I’m often visiting. I had such great times with the Woking Youth Theatre. I started acting there when I was 13 and played Juliet in Romeo and Juliet at the Centre Halls which was where the Peacock Centre is now. I also had many a Saturday job in Woking. I worked in Benetton endlessly folding clothes, ushering in the cinema, bar tending in various pubs. There used to be lots of discos at the Centre Halls and the Old School House. I’d go in homemade outfits and dance for hours in the ’80s!

Q Was becoming an actor something you always wanted to do?

A No, I had always wanted to be a doctor and started medicine at university, but sadly found I was extremely squeamish when it came to dissection and so changed to law.

I finished my degree, but I had been taking part in plays in the summer holidays with the National Youth Theatre and decided to become an actor. From a secure profession to a very precarious one.

Q Was there anyone in particular who inspired you to start your acting career?

A Actually, probably Rob Leech and David Hawkworth who ran the Woking Youth Theatre. I was quite shy as a child and drama helped so much. I loved pretending to be someone else. When I joined the National Youth Theatre, I met people working in the industry and I realised acting could be a profession. >>>

PHOTOS COPYRIGHT: KIRK NEWMANN

JUNE 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 9

Profile: Anna Wilson-Jones Actor and producer Anna Wilson-Jones, best known for her roles in Monarch of the Glen, Spaced, Black Mirror and Hotel Babylon, recently returned to screens as series regular Lady Emma Portman in the third series of ITV’s Victoria. Anna will also join the cast of the third series of Hulu/Amazon Prime’s eighteenth century drama series Harlots, alongside Samantha Morton, Jessica Brown Findlay, Lesley Manville and Liv Tyler.

Later this year brings A Confession .

J Martin Freeman and Imelda Staunton, based on Stephen Fulcher’s book A Confession) a six-part drama about a very recent true story that calls into question how the public want the police to behave when someone goes missing.

As a producer, Anna has recently created the story for and produced the short film Mr Shepherd Ploughs the Sea – from production company Seaplough Pictures which Anna runs with her husband, Steve John Shepherd, known for EastEnders and This Life, who has written the script and stars in the film.

Anna created and produced The Visitor (also written by and starring Steve) – which centres around a homeless man who breaks into a woman’s house which leads to a friendship forming between them. The short film premiered at the Manchester Film Festival and will travel around other festivals this year.

Anna has also produced and also appears in another short film called Ghosted, starring Alison Steadman. The comedy film is about a woman who becomes a psychic medium after she loses her husband. The film is currently in development for a TV series.

Anna is also a Prince’s Trust Ambassador and works very regularly with the charity on various projects with young people across the country.

Q You’ve a very impressive and varied acting resumé which includes cult shows such as Spaced, Black Mirror, Monarch of the Glen and Waterloo Road.

I presume it was fun to work with Simon Pegg and Edgar Wright (Spaced) and Charlie Brooker (Black Mirror)?

A Well that’s very kind! It’s very much a matter of luck. You never know if a series is going to be popular or not. It’s often to do with timing, the zeitgeist. Yes, I had much fun on Spaced. Jessica Hynes who co-wrote and starred in it was a friend from the NYT, and Black Mirror was a privilege to be in as I think Charlie Brooker is a genius. Otto Bathurst directed National Anthem and brought out the darkness of the piece.

Q Favourite actor – who would you pay to watch?

A I pay to watch all actors, especially in the theatre. The prices are ridiculous! Apart from my husband, Steve John Shepherd, of course, Christopher Walken. I’ve just watched Seven Psychopaths and so it’s him this week.

Q Who would you walk across hot coals to work with?

A Guillermo Del Toro or Peter Jackson. I love surreal and fantasy films.

Q Do you pay any attention to social media or a production’s ratings?

A No.

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PHOTO COPYRIGHT: KIRK NEWMANN

Q You’re now a regular in ITV’s drama Victoria (as the allknowing Emma Portman) which has recently resumed in a third series. What do you enjoy best about the part?

A It’s lovely to be someone else entirely and behave in a such a different way to modern day characters. The sets are breathtaking.

And genuinely it’s such a lovely group of people, we have a lot of fun.

Q Do you ever now fear being typecast?

A No, I am very lucky to be working. Of course I do love to play different people and since filming the last series I’ve had the chance to play some varied roles, but I am always happy to be in a period drama!

Q Your recent short film The Visitor was shown at the Manchester Film Festival. Can you tell us a little about it and how it has been received?

A Yes, it was my first venture into being on the other side of the camera. It’s about a homeless man who breaks into a woman’s house only to strike up an unusual relationship with her. There’s a twist at the end. We’ve had lovely responses so far. There are beautiful, moving performances from Steve John Shepherd and Jane Asher. >>>

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Q Did venturing into writing and producing come naturally and was it a planned move?

A My husband wrote the film, but my brother and I came up with the story. It wasn’t planned at all. I told my director friend Duncan Roe the story and he said let’s make it into a film! So we did.

Q Does the theory that actors want to be behind the camera hold for you?

A It has been lovely with The Visitor and Ghosted to be involved from the beginning to the end and to feel you have a bit of creative control; often as an actor you feel like a prop who can talk. Acting is my first love though. In Ghosted with Alison Steadman, I was in front of and behind the camera so that was perfect!

Q Will your experience with The Visitor change your understanding of acting?

A Yes, absolutely. The tiny changes that you make in the edit can change the entire feel of a performance without the actor doing anything at all.

Q Any highs and lows of your career you’d care to mention?

A It’s literally a career full of highs and lows and everything in between.

Lows can be those periods when you’re not working and you think you’ll never work again, it’s very insecure. Highs are when you get the call with an offer.

Q With three children and a busy working life is there is such a thing as a typical day for you?

A No, every day is different. Some days I’m doing the school run, other days I’m in a corset dancing in a ballgown, in a studio doing a voiceover or desperately trying to complete a self-tape without laughing!

Q Do you find more light-hearted and easy-going roles easier to play than serious ones?

A It depends on the character or project. But I think most actors agree, serious heart-wrenching stuff is often easier, it can also be cathartic. It’s much harder to say mundane lines and make them seem real.

Q Have you noticed a change in attitude towards women from when you began your career?

A Not really. I’m happy to say I’ve mostly felt respected and treated equally to men on set. We should aim for equality and respect in all areas of life, regardless of ethnicity or gender, but certainly not by vilifying men. There are, however, undoubtedly less parts for women

UI K I E Dog or cat? Dog! Favourite food? Homemade curry Guilty pleasure? Crisp sandwiches/ sherbet fruits/TV in bed Main inspiration? My husband and children Glass half full or half empty? Always half full

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PHOTO COPYRIGHT: KIRK NEWMANN

and less lines said by women on screen even now and I’m not sure there’s much evidence of change, bar headline-catching roles. But the huge discrepancy in our industry is between the stars and the ‘normal’ working actors. But I’m certainly not going to complain as I have water, food and a roof over my head.

Q Can you tell us a little about your charity work for The Prince’s Trust and how you got involved with this?

A My husband is an ambassador and I met Annie Lycett who heads the ambassador section and I was so happy to be asked to be one too. I try and do whatever is asked of me: whether it’s attend functions or help with a cookery course, or donate an experience for a Trust auction. I would love to do more. The Prince’s Trust is an extraordinary charity which helps young people who have become lost. It has turned thousands of lives around and is literally a lifeline for so many young people.

Q What’s the question you never get asked but would like to be?

A Oh gosh, I don’t know. I suppose every actor would like to be asked: “What did it feel like to win that Oscar?”! Maybe a question about my other interests? But I’ve probably been rambling far too much by now.

Q What are you currently working on and what’s next on your busy schedule?

A I’ve just finished A Confession, a drama based on true events, Breeders, a comedy and I’m finishing Harlots, a Georgian period drama. I’m about to film Adult Material for Channel 4 and Agatha Raisin for Sky. I’m also working with my husband on a comedy series called Mr Shepherd Ploughs the Sea... and of course working hardest being a mum. v Watch Anna as Lady Leadsom in the third series of Harlots, 10 July on Hulu and Amazon Prime.

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light Catching the

If plants’ response to light is key to the design of a garden, then a successful scheme must understand how to respond by ‘lighting up’ plants and using them to their best effect. Bella Alladio of Alladio Sims Garden Landscape Design Limited explains how to do just that.

In the low rays of a shady corner, the foamy white flowers of Tiarella and Astilbe positively glow

Blue flowers work well in lower light conditions because they are able to absorb more light and appear more vibrant and alive IMAGE COURTESY OF ALLADIO SIMS GARDEN AND LANDSCAPE DESIGN LTD

I

t’s hard to resist colour, mainly because our brains respond so strongly to it. We are wired to receive colour and in our gardens this is more noticeable than elsewhere: flowers catch our attention first and stop our gaze more than anything else. Yet colour is not as solid as we might think, instead it’s ever changing and infinitely complex because it’s made out of light, and its variety of hues and tones change in relation to the quality of the sunlight.

Growing up in Italy, I was blessed by month after month of relentless powerful sunlight and bottomless blue skies and I soon learnt to appreciate the colour-enhancing properties of the sun, especially on warmer hues and vibrant combinations. Yet in the harsh light of a hot summer afternoon these tones would sometimes become overbearing.

This extreme light context contrasts with the soft colour combinations of a classic English border illuminated by the gentle diffused light of a misty or cloudy sky; here the subtlety of each hue is allowed to show itself – soft pinks and pastel tones glow, coppery hues are warm under grey skies while whites gather what light there is and sparkle against green foliage foil.

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This dynamic reaction to light shows just how the process of designing a successful garden must start by observing local colours and the way in which they behave in local natural light conditions, in an attempt to recreate some of this magic within the garden. Colours look different in different climates and not all climates support the same tones, so better to be restrained in choosing and using them, like in so many classic Italian gardens or in the famous English ‘White Garden’ of Sissinghurst, where a limited mix of grey, green and white interacts creating sheer light magic based on the principle set out by its designer, Vita Sackville-West: “Any colour, as long as it’s white.”

Attempting to design a garden closely obeying the criteria set out by a colour wheel has often proved disappointing. Of course, adding colourful accents can be fun and can help to introduce brief moments of delight, but when this is not connected to the bigger picture, or it’s

Garden design | ALLADIO SIMS The yellow flowers of euphorbias radiate light, bouncing it back and illuminating this shady spot IMAGE COURTESY OF ALLADIO SIMS GARDEN AND LANDSCAPE DESIGN LTD

Profile: Alladio Sims

Alladio Sims Garden Landscape Design Ltd was established in 2015 after Jon Sims and Bella Alladio collaborated on a Silver Gilt winning show garden at RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show. The two directors continue their collaborative approach throughout their practice with Jon’s background in interior architecture giving distinctive spaces and Bella’s passion for plants and photographic eye adding great texture and contrast.

In the low light conditions of a wood, the relatively small amount of early morning light that filters through is absorbed by bluebells producing a magical effect IMAGE COURTESY OF ALLADIO SIMS GARDEN AND LANDSCAPE DESIGN LTD

not bold enough to make a statement, it can appear too harsh and fail to work overall. A good approach would be to observe how colours behave locally and how they help to form specific moods or create drama, and to try and replicate some of those aspects within the garden.

Indeed understanding the continuously evolving light properties of a specific garden will allow a designer to play with light and dark, and the full spectrum of hues available within different times of the day, different seasons and throughout the evolution of a plant life cycle. The vivid light shining through a daffodil in the pale rosy morning glow takes on red tones in the evening, while the golden rich tones of the autumn sun make purple asters and the yellow of maturing grasses glow. With the passing of time light changes, and these changes allow plants to illuminate dark corners, bounce light from under tree canopies, shimmer against the evening sunset and look vibrant and alive when backlit.

A silver leaf plant like Salvia argentea, whose woolly leaves shine even on the dullest of days, is capable of radiating light as soon as the sun hits it and therefore is best placed where the sun shines directly on it. The variegation and white flowers on shrubs like Pittosporum tenuifolium variegatum, Choisya or Osmanthus burkwodii will light up even the darkest of corners, bouncing the diffuse light back into the landscape. A dark leaf such as that of an Asarum will absorb light to make the best of its shady growing condition, but in early morning light its glossy surface will be reflective.

A golden or yellow leaved plant will work in much the same way as a white flower would, radiating light back from its leaves, but adding a golden glow. Hackonechloa macra aureola is one such plant, forming

a divine mass of luminous golden blades in the under storey of trees or other dry and inhospitable shady spots which appears magical when early morning or evening light goes through it. Ferns behave in a similar way too. When such simple and beautiful golden luminescence is available the plant palette can be kept simple.

A good example of trees that display similar translucent properties when light touches them, glowing through their leaves, are Japanese maples or heart shaped Cercidiphyllum japonicum. Observed in direct sunlight, a purple leaved maple will absorb the light and be a dark hole in the landscape, but carefully positioned with the sun behind it, its leaves will appear vibrant and alive with multiple tones as light passes through the layers of leaves.

Plants with fine textures such as feathery Stipa tenuissima or fennel are also particularly stunning when backlit, as their fronds trap the light creating a wonderfully luminous radiance. They require careful placing in a location where the early morning sun or mellow evening light backlights them as we stand against them. Mixed with strong architectural shapes and bold silhouettes such as the elongated swords of a phormium or the vertical blades of an iris with their dramatic shadows and sculptural presence, the result can produce a striking mix of exuberant and rigid forms softened by flexible and radiant plumes.

Difficult as it may be, designing a garden with these fleeting but wonderful light effects in mind is to try and recreate beauty, and whilst it’s true that plant behaviour will somehow always be partially beyond our control, there is a sense of real accomplishment and satisfaction when such moments of joy are achieved. essence INFO

Alladio Sims Garden Landscape Design Limited Regional office: Lower Bourne (Farnham) Surrey GU10 3RE Website: www.alladiosims.co.uk Email: Hello@alladiosims.co.uk

JUNE 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 15

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Dog-friendly travel Dogs are a fully-fledged member of the family and nothing makes a country walk more satisfying than having a beloved four-legged friend as a companion. Claire Zambuni has sourced some of the best pubs and hotels, some a short drive away and others specialising in dog-friendly stays, from a mini retreat in Suffolk to a ‘Fido Gastro Retreat’ on the south coast of Devon.

Close to home...

The Duke of Cumberland, Surrey

The Duke of Cumberland, Surrey

A beautiful sixteenth century pub perched on the side of a hill with breathtaking views. From the gardens, on a fine summer’s day, it’s just possible to see Leith Hill. During the summer months there’s always a seasonal dish on the menu with produce from the vegetable garden. Today’s Duke retains much of its original charm: inside are flagstones, brick floors, wooden scrubbed tables and local ales. The Duke is renowned for its spectacular Sunday roast with a self-carving tradition.

Simon Goodman, chef patron, says: “Dogs are at the heart of the rural community and are thoroughly welcome. We host many seasonal shooting parties and gun dogs are always welcome.”

The Welldiggers Arms, West Sussex

Over the border...

The Welldiggers Arms, West Sussex

An original country pub with a spacious dining area featuring large windows overlooking the South Downs, this 300-year old, dog-friendly inn boasts bespoke oak furniture, reclaimed art and a welcoming log fire. Much of the produce is sourced locally: from the fresh seasonal game, particularly the South Downs’ venison, to the fresh vegetables and herbs from local producers. The pub has an extensive bar with anything from West Sussex Real Ales and fine wines to a refreshing Sussex Chilgrove Gin. The inn features 14 en-suite bedrooms, six of which are located within the pub and eight in a separate annexe. For an extra £15, bring the pooch and a fresh dog bed and bowl will be provided in the room.

Worth travelling to...

The Jack Russell, Faccombe

This newly refurbished inn, located in Hampshire, offers unpretentious luxury in a tranquil countryside setting. Its 11 contemporary bedrooms, named after different breeds of dog in keeping with The Jack Russell include The Great Dane, The Bulldog and Spaniel. There are three rooms in the pub and eight in a bespoke courtyard lodge, perfectly designed retreats for rest and relaxation. >>>

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PHOTO COPYRIGHT: PÉTER GÖBLYÖS | PIXABAY

Pastimes | DOG WALKING

Essential dog travel accessories

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Orvis Field Collection Folding Travel Dog Crate Designed to keep a dog comfortable and safe on the way to and from the field. The lightweight crate collapses easily for storage and travel. Sizes small to large from £99 to £139.

JUNE 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 19

Cary Arms and Spa, Devon

The Jack Russell, Faccombe

Further afield...

Cary Arms and Spa, Devon

Sitting in the sunny, sheltered haven of Babbacombe Beach on the south Devon coast, the Cary Arms exudes all the charm and fun of a good old English pub with the style and comfort of a luxury boutique hotel. Gastro pub food, real ales, exceptionally dogfriendly facilities and roaring log fires. Plus, eight deluxe beach huts and suites with amazing views. There is a dog-friendly beach open all year round on the doorstep!

Dine with your dog: The Cary Arms pub offers real ales, quality food using locally sourced Devon produce, with daily specials reflecting Devon coast and Devon country in equal measure. Doggie dinners are also on offer with lots of treats for four-legged guests. Book through Pets Pyjamas for the Fido Gastro Retreat.

Newton Hall, Suffolk

Enjoy a dog-friendly mini retreat with a difference and escape the hustle and bustle of daily life by combining a passion for horses with satisfying fitness schedules at Newton Hall.

Spend time in stunning scenery at Newton Hall Equitation Facility, Suffolk’s pre-eminent riding school, specialising in riding lessons for all ages and abilities and individuals.

Qualified personal trainers are on hand to devise a personal fitness programme and alongside this there are local walks for visitors and their dogs to enjoy nature.

Newton Hall House, which is onsite, is a romantic fifteenth century cottage offering an authentic, rural experience. With plenty of space, it makes for an ideal stay for couples, families, small groups and, of course, dogs.

Visitors have the option of adding activities such as pampering from beauty therapists, clay shooting or golf at one of Newton Hall’s three partner courses. v

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Newton Hall, Suffolk

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Baking | JEN’S CUPCAKERY

Lemon and lime cupcakes These fluffy lemon and lime cupcakes have a surprise ingredient and a zingy lemon and lime frosting creates a perfect contrast to the sweet cake. Top off with candied lemon slices or a cute mini lemon meringue!

TOP TIP: When piping icing that includes zest, use a wide tip, such as an open star, or the zest may get caught in the nozzle.

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Ingredients: 113g unsalted butter 150g caster sugar Two large eggs 195g plain flour One and a half teaspoons baking powder One tablespoon lemon zest One teaspoon lime zest Quarter teaspoon salt One teaspoon vanilla extract 120ml of 7 Up/Sprite For the frosting 500g icing sugar, 110g unsalted butter, two tablespoons 7 Up/Sprite, one tablespoon lemon zest and one teaspoon lime zest.

Method Preheat the oven to 350°F/175°C and line a 12 cup muffin pan with cupcake liners.

Beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Beat in the lemon and lime zests and vanilla.

Combine the flour, baking powder and salt in a medium bowl and add

to the batter, alternating with the 7 Up/Sprite.

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake centre comes out with only a few dry crumbs. Remove cupcakes from the pan and cool on a wire rack.

For the frosting, beat the butter until light and creamy, add the icing sugar, lemon and lime zest and 7 Up/Sprite a tablespoon at a time until a smooth, fluffy consistency is achieved (add slowly otherwise the icing may become runny).

When the cupcakes are cool, pipe or spoon the icing on and finish with either crystallised lemon pieces or a mini meringue as we have here – both can be bought in supermarkets to save time!

essence INFO

Website: www.jenscupcakery.co.uk Telephone: 07751 553106 Email: mail@jenscupcakery.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ jenscupcakery Twitter: @jenscupcakery

JUNE 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 21

HAUGHTY HYBRID

LUXURY

The new BMW 7 Series sets out its stall as the ultimate vehicle for luxurious driving pleasure, embodying BMW chairman Harald Krüger’s wish for the marque’s most expensive cars to be ever more luxurious. Euan Johns looks into the latest advances.

22 essence-magazine.co.uk | JUNE 2019

Motoring | BMW

BMW

’s 7 Series has always been a bit of a showcase for technological luxury. The latest version has yet more advancements on show to deliver even more comfort, greater fuel efficiency, innovative driver assistance and connectivity. In other words, the new BMW 7 series sticks to the letter of the chairman’s brief. With massaging seats, wooden seat-belt covers and interiors that display acres of parquet leather, these new variants are the definition of luxury.

In addition to striking exterior and interior design changes, BMW has updated the 7 Series’ engines to include a new eight-cylinder version and an in-line six-cylinder unit with plug-in hybrid system offering an extended all-electric range of 36 miles.

Perhaps the most striking element is the car’s eye-catching exterior due, in no small part, to the enlarged, kidney-shaped radiator grill. This gives the car an appearance of subdued aggression and machismo. The whole exterior design has a none too subtle ‘get out of my way’ feel to it, which is not to say that it looks clumsy or ugly in any way.

No, it’s a true gent and the improved electric motor in the hybrid version offers a silent presence to what is a mighty example of refined engineering. >>>

JUNE 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 23

BMW has improved the air suspension, and although the hybrid version has to cope with some additional weight, the ride quality is exceptional, rivalling some notable peers such as the Mercedes S-Class. Steering is somewhat sedate, but that is to be expected from such a gargantuan car.

The lithium-ion battery is stored under the rear seat and offers the ability to set off silently and then engage the engine with minimal fuss enroute to the motorway. Here the car’s true power comes into its own. This beauty weighs in at a tad below two tons, which is why it needs every one of the straight six it possesses. The power on offer enables the car to sail into three figures without really batting an eyelid.

It’s the little things and attention to detail that one has to marvel at with this BMW, such as the air breathers to optimise the flow of air through the wheel arches and reduce turbulence. The front grille incorporates an active air flap control with adjustable veins that only open when the need for cooling air is increased. It’s all clever stuff.

There’s lots more to admire, my favourite being the increased manoeuvrability for tight city streets. This is achieved by the front and rear wheels turning in opposite directions to increase the car’s turning circle. Additionally, in the UK, the car comes with Parking Assistance Plus. This incorporates the rather handy feature of being able to reverse the car over the exact line taken when driving forward into that position.

Ok, it only works for 50 metres, but that should be more than enough to get even the most inexperienced driver out of any hole they may have driven themselves into.

The 7 Series has always and probably always will be a mighty animal, but it really is the stuff of dreams for those career executives finding themselves at the top of the tree. It oozes self-belief and power and where there is male machismo to be found it will see the 7 Series as it’s true home.

The price for all this car? Well, depending on the model, anything from just under £70k to £84k, that is, of course, unless you want to go the whole hog and opt for the M760Li xDrive variant which somehow manages to add nigh on £25k for not a huge amount more. That executive decision is yours to make. v

24 essence-magazine.co.uk | JUNE 2019

essence INFO www.bmw.co.uk

Dua Lipa Global Brand Amabassador Spring/Summer 2019 collection photographed by David Sims #DuaforPepe #MyPepeJeans @pepejeans www.pepejeans.com

Juniper

heaven With World Gin Day rapidly approaching, Kevin Pilley takes a look at some local and national offerings.

I

n Surrey, you can’t beat the smell of Polish angelica, Macedonian junipers and dried pears in the early evening. And native conifers preprandially. Our county is the place to practice for World Gin Day in June. Or a sundowner every day. Be it with sloes, aged mulberry, ginger ale, elderflower cordial, a dash of bitters, an infusion of Seville orange or Sicilian lemon, vermouth, in Negroni, mulled or Martini form, with a slice of mild green chilli, a twist of grapefruit, wedge of lime, sprig of basil or rosemary, two quartered strawberries or cucumber ice cubes.

Or just a slimline ‘Indian’.

Based in Kingston, Beckett’s London Dry Gin uses juniper handpicked on Box Hill. Most juniper comes from Italy or the Balkans.

Becketts’ founder, Neil Beckett, launched a conservation project with the National Trust after discovering juniper – the plant that gives gin its name – was in national decline due to an airborne fungus. Beckett’s also uses Surrey water mint.

James Shelbourne’s Silent Pool on the Albury Estate near Guildford uses spring water from a stream-fed lake in the North Downs to fire up ‘The Major’. As well as the new Albury Limited Release Premium Gin, Silent Pool has been working on an organic eau-de-vie de vin, Attila’s Bite, and an apple brandy.

Kate Gregory and Helen Muncie’s Gin Kitchen in an old barn at Goldenlands Farm, Dorking makes Gutsy Monkey and Dancing Dragontail, thanks to their stills Dinky and Daisy. Neil Redit and Paul Shubrook’s Elstead Village Distillers makes Thundry Hill. Everywhere now has a gin concern.

26 essence-magazine.co.uk | JUNE 2019

The 1793 Friars Distillery in Plymouth may be the country’s oldest gin distillery – allegedly the last port of call for the Pilgrim Fathers before they set sail for the New World – but Plymouth Gin, with other household names like Gordon’s (1769), Devon pharmacist James Burrough’s 1863 Beefeater’s, Nicholson’s (1730), Essex’s 1830 Tanqueray (The Pride of Basildon), Hayman’s (1863) and even early boutique gin pioneer Sipsmith in Chiswick are facing stiff competition from micro-distilleries around the country producing hand-crafted, often hand-foraged, eclectically-flavoured tipples.

In a decade, British gin exports to the US alone have grown 500 per cent. Tastes and drinking habits are changing. The success of ‘niche quality’ Home County producers like Beckett’s and Silent Pool reflect a trend in hyperlocal business and small-batch (less than 1,000 litres) philosophy. Searching for authenticity and difference, fashionable young consumers don’t mind paying for the personal touch, the perfect serve and genuine provenance. They are willing to pay to effuse about the layered complexity of their gin. Gins with attitude are in.

Experts predict gin will outsell whisky by 2020. Gin is fizzing.

Drams are down. Vodka is on the rocks. Gin has been re-invented,

Drinks | GIN

re-imagined and re-badged. Artisanal gins are big business. Demand for premium handpressed, hand-labelled organic gin is high.

Every county has its gin. Based in Yorkshire, Whittaker’s is making clear sloe gin at its Harrogate Distillery; Masons Yorkshire Gin recommends Franklin and Sons’ tonic with lime peel for its tea gin made from Harrogate Yorkshire Tea and Fentiman’s herbal tonic with its lavender gin.

Northumberland has Hepple and Steampunk Pirate Rascal Strength with its skull bottle, as well as Fentimans. Leicestershire has Burleigh, Lancashire Thomas Dakin, Staffordshire Nelson Gin and Lincolnshire Pin Gin. There is Durham Gin, Cambridge Gin, Cotswolds, Norfolk and Brighton Gin (handmade by the seaside). Cambridge also has raspberry Pinkster Gin. And gin jam! Co-founder of Pinkster, Will Holt, explains: “We’d been scratching our heads for a while wondering what to do with all the leftover inebriated raspberries. There are worse ways to start the day!”

Birmingham has Whitley Neill (making nettle gin) and Bristol Aurora Borealis and fennel finish Psychopomp Woden. Tyne and Wear boasts the Poetic License distillery in Sunderland. Herefordshire the William Chase Distillery where Sophie Piper recommends a slice of ginger with its award-winning London Dry Gin. Gloucestershire has Bramley & Gage’s 6 O’Clock.

Not be outdone, Paul Bowler of Winchester Distillery in Hampshire, home of Bombay Sapphire at Laverstoke Mill, makes Gunpowder Tea Gin (with south coast buckthorn) and Watercress Gin. Thanks to Paul, Hampshire is also the safest place to ask for a Twisted Nose.

English Saffron Gin is made in Essex by Peggy Attwood and her brother David Smale using east Anglian sugar beet, macadamia nuts and citrus zest. And homegrown saffron. Essex also boasts Slamsey’s Marmalade Gin. While Kent, as well as hosting the annual sloe gin championships, claims Anno Gin and the Copper Rivet Distillery producing Dockyard Gin in Chatham. Devon has Wicked Wolf (The Spirit of Exmoor) and Dartmoor’s Black Dog. London boasts boutique gin makers like Portobello Road, Jensen’s, Half Hitch of Camden Lock and the Sacred Spirits company which makes Christmas pudding gin. And gin with frankincense.

Mark D. Hill’s Boxer Gin uses Italian bergamot and Himalayan black junipers. Sacred Gin is made from frankincense, in Highgate.

On the Isles of Scilly, the Hicks family on Westward Farm, St Agnes makes rose geranium-infused gin.

Northern Ireland has Shortcross, Eight Leaf, Gerry White’s Jackbox Classic and Boatyard. Ireland has Dingle Gin. Scotland boasts the UK’s most northerly mainland distillery, Rock Rose at Dunnet Bay, Caithness. >>>

JUNE 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 27

St. Andrews has Eden Mill. Its Love Gin was created when founder Paul Miller’s wife Caroline suggested that after twenty years of brewing beer maybe he should make something special for her: a blush pink gin distilled with red rose petals, marshmallow root, goji berries and whole hibiscus flowers. It claims to be: “More romantic than any Barry White song.” Sea lettuce is used in Jura’s Lussa and Lynne and Steve Duthie make their Esker Gin with birch tree sap.

Wales has the Savage-Onstwedder family’s Dà Mhìle which makes seaweed gin at the Glynhynod Farm, Ceredigion. It was the UK’s first organic farmhouse distillery. Brecon Gin is made at the Penderyn whisky distillery. Conker Gin is produced by former chartered surveyor Rupert Holloway in an old laundry in Dorset.

Cornwall has Tarquin’s made at the South Western Distillery in Wadebridge. Ingredients include Guatemalan cardamom, Bulgarian coriander seeds, Kosovo juniper and hand-picked local violets. The distillery also makes Cornish Pastis. The Isle of Wight Distillery makes Mermaid Gin. Gin can be made from any spirit. It’s the flavouring which matters. The botanicals. Fine gin can have as many as six. Some of the nouveau gins have many more. The Inner Hebridean Argyll gin, The Botanist, has thirty-one, twenty-two of them from the Isle of Islay. I’m told the aromas explode like an olfactory Aurora Borealis.

The new generation has shaken up the heritage brands.

Even stills are becoming celebrities. Copper alembics have growing fan bases. An immersive gin experience is all about the pot.

Hendrick’s has ‘Bennet’ and ‘Carver-Head’. The Botanist has ‘Ugly Betty’. Lussa has ‘Hamish’ from Portugal. Warner Edwards Distillery makes its rhubarb and honey bee gins with the help of ‘Curiosity’. Masons has ‘Steve’, ‘Leftie’ and German ‘Katie’.

Turning out lavender, tea and peppered pear gins, Warner Edwards is proud of ‘Curiosity’ and ‘Satisfaction’.

They help produce rhubarb gin which initially came from

28 essence-magazine.co.uk | JUNE 2019

a strain of rhubarb originating from Queen Victoria’s kitchen garden at Buckingham Palace. On Curiosity’s arrival at Falls Farm, a curious cat left its paw prints in the wet cement of the distillery floor which led to the name.

‘Tamara’, ‘Senara’ and ‘Ferrara’ are busy in Cornwall. Thames Distillers Timbermill Distillery in Clapham employs ‘Tom Thumb’.

At Bramley & Gage, ‘Kathleen’ (named after the founder’s mother) does all the work. Burleigh has ‘Messy Bessy’ – master distiller Jamie is a big Louis Jordan fan. ‘Merlin’ gives birth to English Saffron Gin. ‘Oisin’ is the mother of Dingle. Durham Distillery has ‘Lily’, named after the owner’s daughter. And Snowdonia Distillery’s ‘Eiranwen’ produces Forager’s Gin. ‘Annie’ makes Makar Gin. Devon’s John Lawton’s Black Dog Gin’s pot still is named ‘Ethyl Ethel’. Britain’s first single estate, field-to-bottle Chase Distillery christened its still ‘Ginny’.

Surrey’s Silent Pool has ‘Juliet’, named after the director’s late mother, Juliet Shelbourne. Says her son and Surrey gin-meister James: “She was an incredibly vibrant and energetic lady. In her later years she suffered from cancer and one of the last trips she made before becoming bedbound was to the distillery. She loved it, and so when she passed it seemed like a natural fit.”

The still at Beckett’s is the still with no name. Says Keith Beckett: “As a chartered engineer, giving names to items of capital equipment is far too sentimental for me!”

In Dorking, Kate Gregory and fellow gin lover Helen Muncie of The Gin Kitchen create their Gutsy Monkey in a still called ‘Dinky Dragondale’. “We perform a juniper maceration dance around it!” says Helen, a psychologist. Surrey’s gin ladies recommend Peter Spanton lemongrass tonic with The Gin Kitchen’s Dancing Dragontail summer gin.

Like the whole country, Surrey has become soft on the nose and gentle but lively on the tongue.

And it is always coming up to gin o’clock. All year round.v

Tax | EVERFAIR PHOTO COPYRIGHT: ISTOCK

Could you be an ‘Accidental American’?

Gillian Everall of Everfair Tax offers guidance on the tax implications for American citizens.

T

he Duke and Duchess of Sussex have proudly announced the birth of Baby Sussex, and the Royal Tax Accountants are preparing for an increased workload. With the Duchess’ American citizenship, Baby Sussex will be deemed to be a US citizen and as such liable to pay US Federal Income Tax. It’s a timely reminder that as an ‘Accidental American’ which Baby Sussex will become, many individuals residing in foreign countries that may hold American citizenship because they were born there, or have automatically received the citizenship status from their parents, could have a requirement to file an annual Federal Tax Return to report on their worldwide income, and this may apply regardless of whether they have even lived there.

So, if you are a US national living abroad, or fall into the ‘Accidental American’ category, what do you need to consider? The answer is unfortunately quite a lot, however, through diligent reporting and planning, it is possible to avoid many unnecessary additional liabilities and reporting exposures enabling you to effectively manage two separate tax systems.

The key areas to consider annually are: Do I actually need to file?

Are my returns up to date and if not can I take

advantage of the Foreign Offshore Streamlined Procedures to get up to date?

Have I reported everything on my Federal Tax Return correctly?

Have I declared my non-US bank accounts and investment accounts – The FBAR declaration?

What about my private and state pensions – how are they taxed?

Do I need to declare any gifts and inheritances I have received and are there implications for me, even if they came from a non-US national?

While tax liabilities can be mitigated, failure to report your tax affairs annually and correctly with the IRS can prove to be extremely costly in some circumstances.

Substantial penalties exist for any failure to declare your income, investments and assets correctly, and by avoiding doing so, you can find yourself with significant issues to deal with beyond simple additional tax, interest and penalties.

Our experienced team at Everfair Tax is well equipped to help the up to date taxpayer, as well as those individuals who want to address their US tax filing responsibilities. If you would like some assistance, please call our friendly team on 01932 320800, email info@everfairtax.co.uk or visit our website www.everfairtax.co.uk.

essence INFO

Gillian Everall is Managing Director and Head of Private Client Tax Services for Everfair Tax based in Weybridge. Everfair Tax specialises in UK, US and Expatriate Tax and provides a unique tax advisory and compliance service to help manage personal or international complexities and the changing of family or business circumstances.

JUNE 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 29

Estate administration – do you need help?

Hannah Green and Julie Man of Mundays LLP look at how you can benefit from seeking support in administering an Estate following the death of someone close to you.

Julie Man is head of Mundays’ Private Wealth team with a breadth of private client expertise including complex Wills, lifetime capital tax-planning, Business Property Relief and ancillary advice on succession planning for business owners, domicile and crossborder issues for international clients, private and charitable trusts together with the administration of estates.

Contact Julie Man of Mundays LLP on 01932 590643 or by email at julie.man@mundays.co.uk

The process Following a death it is the responsibility of the Executors under the deceased’s Will (or an Administrator if someone dies without leaving a Will) to administer the estate of the person who has passed away. For the sake of this article, we will refer to Executors.

In broad terms this includes: Finding out the value of the assets and liabilities as at the date of death, this extends to lifetime gifts, trusts, business and foreign assets; Completing the relevant inheritance tax account and paying inheritance tax (where appropriate); Obtaining a Grant of Probate (or Letters of Administration if there is no Will); Collecting in the assets and settling any liabilities; Finalising the deceased’s tax affairs by reporting to HMRC concerning Income and Capital Gains Tax; and Distributing the estate following the wishes set out in the Will.

This can be a complex, time consuming minefield and a worrying prospect for a family often struggling with the loss of someone in their family.

Inheritance tax account The date of death values of the assets and liabilities of the deceased must be entered into the relevant inheritance tax account.

Depending on the complexity and value of the estate, the short account maybe appropriate or the more cumbersome detailed long account, where the estate meets certain criteria or there is inheritance tax payable.

30 essence-magazine.co.uk | JUNE 2019

The inheritance account is one part of the application. This together with the original Will and statement of truth forms the full application. The Grant of Probate is the legal document issued by an arm of the Court confirming that the Executors have the legal authority to deal with the deceased’s estate.

The inheritance account is submitted to HMRC for its thorough review. Sometimes HMRC may take a closer look at some parts of the estate such as referring to specialist departments like the District Valuer’s office.

The District Valuer’s office is often involved when considering property valuations. This can result in negotiations if they believe the property has been undervalued.

Penalties The more detailed account in most cases ranges from being 30 to 50 pages long.

It is imperative that the Executors make full enquiries into the deceased’s finances so that they can be satisfied the information provided to HMRC is accurate.

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Legal | MUNDAYS PHOTO COPYRIGHT: ALEXANDER RATHS | 123RF.COM

Penalties may be applied by HMRC if the account is submitted late, these can be up to £3,200 and significantly higher if HMRC feels any information provided is deliberately inaccurate.

Why seek professional support for Estate Administration?

It can be invaluable instructing a lawyer to assist with alleviating this administrative burden at what is a difficult time for the following reasons: They specialise in this complex area of law and deal with these accounts day to day; Their familiarity with HMRC’s best practice concerning the completion of the inheritance tax accounts; Guidance concerning inheritance tax payment; Advice about inheritance tax reliefs and exemptions, e.g. Business Property Relief, Lifetime Gifts; The benefits of varying a person’s Will through Deeds of Variation; and

They can use their knowledge and experience of dealing with HMRC to negotiate on your behalf with HMRC and the District Valuer to minimise inheritance tax in the estate so that as much of the estate passes to the family as possible.

This is not an exhaustive list, but gives you an idea of the expertise and guidance Mundays can offer in navigating this tricky area.

essence INFO

Mundays LLP 400 Dashwood Lang Road, Weybridge, Surrey KT15 2HJ Telephone: 01932 590500 Website: www.mundays.co.uk The contents of this article are intended as guidance for readers. It can be no substitute for responsibility for this information, errors or

Hannah Green is an Associate Probate & Trusts Manager in Mundays’ Private Wealth team with over 13 years experience in a breadth of Private Wealth matters.

She particularly specialises in Trust and Estate Administration.

Clients frequently compliment her on her compassionate and professional approach when supporting families through the estate administration process.

Contact Hannah Green of Mundays LLP on 01932 590653 or by email at hannah.green@mundays.co.uk

law, or the content of any website referred to in this update. © Mundays LLP 2019.

JUNE 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 31

WEALTH MANAGEMENT EXECUTED BEAUTIFULLY

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THE HISTORY boys and girls From the Roman Empire to the Cold War, studying history helps pupils make sense of the present. Michael Connolly, Headmaster of Cranmore School, examines the importance of history to a child’s education.

H

One of the latest acronyms to gain traction is STEAM. If you enry Ford is often quoted for his remark that: “Any customer have not heard of it, don’t worry, because another version will be can have a car painted any colour that he wants so long as it’s along shortly. It actually stands for science, technology, engineering, black.” This, of course, was in reference to his seminal engineering art, and mathematics. At first glance, this appears to be a curious list achievement, the Model T, which had an enormous impact on the with art thrown in to give an illusion of balance. car industry. However, he is perhaps less wellknown for another blunt comment which was History has many incredible We know that politicians are forever stressing the importance of science and engineering for not entirely tongue-in-cheek: “History is more stories to capture a child’s the economy. Moreover, we are all familiar or less bunk. It’s tradition. We don’t want imagination, that can with public figures such as James Dyson who tradition. We want to live in the present…” is most certainly one of the most innovative One can understand the sentiment behind enthuse, inform and take inventors Britain has produced in recent this view, especially from someone who was them on magical journeys. decades. Nevertheless, the value from the study so committed to the advance of engineering and technology in the early part of the twentieth century. Even of humanities, and history in particular, should never be overlooked. today, some educationalists are pushing a narrow vision of what One only has to witness the current political upheaval across Europe, subjects are important and, therefore, what children ought to learn including the UK, to ponder the famous aphorism from Santayana that: “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” in school.

34 essence-magazine.co.uk | JUNE 2019

Education | CRANMORE SCHOOL

In my view, it is vital that history forms an integral part of every child’s education. In this way, children learn to make sense of the world and interpret what is happening now in the context of what has gone before. One cannot hope to engage the interest of young children by poring over dusty textbooks. Rather, good schools have inspiring teachers who make excellent use of audio-visual resources to make history come alive. At Cranmore School, the latest gadget in the teachers’ toolkit is VR headsets. Children are absolutely enthralled by the chance to have a virtual experience of walking inside a pyramid or the Forum in ancient Rome.

This is, of course, not to suggest that this equipment can fully replace first-hand experiences though. The use of a field trip or visit to a place of interest, as well as museums, will always have a part to play. The pupils at Cranmore have derived great benefits from their visits to local historical sites such as Fishbourne Palace and Battle Abbey. In addition, we also host many workshops throughout

the year which are led by professional actors in full costume with props. The opportunity to be a Viking for a day is something that children never forget. If we inspire children in their formative years, then there is every chance that they will study history in secondary school and beyond.

Cranmore School essence INFO

Cranmore School Epsom Road, West Horsley KT24 6AT Telephone: 01483 280340 Email: admissions@cranmoreprep.co.uk Website: www.cranmoreprep.co.uk PHOTO COPYRIGHT: CRANMORE SCHOOL

JUNE 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 35

AUTISM:

CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS Louise Alexander talks to Dr Lorene Amet D.Phil. M.Ed. who is widely respected and known nationally and internationally for her knowledge of autism in the academic, public and third sectors. Dr Amet’s company, Autism Treatment Plus, specialises in diagnosis, interventions, training, research and evaluation. She also shares why autism is close to her heart and what led her to this field of interest.

D

r Amet argues that medication is not the way to go when tackling autism and that to understand the root causes of a person’s difficulties is key to reducing the challenges associated with the condition. She explains how parental dedication, access to early diagnosis and intervention, specifically putting in place a dietary and nutritional approach, can help. She further focuses on a supplement called NADplus by Eudeamon that can be particularly beneficial to reduce hyperactivity and improve the cognitive skills of autistic children and adults.

Q Dr Amet, could you tell me about Autism Treatment Plus and your career in autism?

A In 2005 I was appointed Principal scientist of an organisation set up by parents and relatives with autism who were largely disappointed by the lack of ‘voice’ autism had. Together, our aim was to create awareness of autism to healthcare professionals, highlighting the needs for supporting the health of children with autism. In 2006, a clinic was established in Edinburgh which provided diagnostic services and access to biomedical, nutritional and behavioural interventions in order to tackle the various medical and behavioural issues affecting children with autism.

We have come a long way, and today I am proud to say, with the help of a dedicated team of scientists, medical doctors, behaviourists and many volunteers, we at Autism Treatment Plus provide access to diagnostic services, dietary and nutritional interventions and behavioural advice to support over 1,000 families in the UK and from overseas.

Q Where are you based?

A I have clinics in Edinburgh and London and provide remote support via video calls for families from across the UK and abroad.

Q What is your medical background?

A I have a PhD in biological sciences from Oxford University, eight years of post-doctoral research work at Princeton University in the US and Edinburgh University and Master in Special Education Autism from Birmingham University. I have also received the Autism Trainer Award accredited by Scottish Autism.

Q What exactly is autism?

A Autism is a lifelong, developmental disability that affects how a person

36 essence-magazine.co.uk | JUNE 2019

communicates and relates to other people, and how they experience the world around them. In addition, many individuals with autism suffer from a number of health issues that have a direct impact on their development and behaviour. Our role is to properly diagnose these health issues. In other words, our focus is to understand what is behind the label of autism.

Q How would someone with autism view the world?

A There are many testimonies and reports from people with high functioning autism that help us understand how individuals at the high end of the spectrum see the world. They often report that the world appears confusing and overwhelming. In addition to not fully understanding social contexts and relationships, individuals often feel overwhelmed by their senses, the noise level, lighting, perfumes and flavours. This can lead to behavioural meltdowns or withdrawing. Connecting events, adapting to changes and living independently can be very difficult. It is harder to fully know how someone at the lower end of the spectrum understands the world, because for many communicating is very hard. Connecting events and understanding self can also be difficult.

Q How is autism diagnosed?

A The diagnosis of autism is based on three main developmental difficulties, affecting the person’s social, communication skills as well as their behaviour. Issues of behaviour include repetitive behaviours and narrow range of interests, as well as sensory problems such as hypersensitivities to tastes, textures of food, sounds and lighting or hyposensitivities to pain and movement. There are no biological markers for autism. Autism is a huge spectrum, but all individuals share some degrees of social communication and behavioural difficulties.

Q Please could you explain the spectrum and do conditions like Asperger Syndrome, ADHD, dyspraxia and the like fit into this spectrum?

A At one end of the spectrum, the so-called low functioning end, many individuals are non-verbal or have very limited verbal communication skills. At the other end of the spectrum, individuals are verbal and have normal or better than average use of vocabulary and grammar, yet they remain affected in the fullest understanding of communication, especially in relation to the social context. Today’s diagnostic criteria set by the American Psychiatric Association, the

Health | AUTISM

DMS-5, no longer separates Asperger Syndrome from the rest of the spectrum. People with autism often have some degree of dyspraxia – motor planning difficulties – and it is also common for them to have some attention and hyperactivity difficulties such as seen in ADHD. The DSM-5 diagnostic criteria have changed and become stricter.

Some children who were once diagnosed with autism under the DSM-IV no longer have a diagnosis of ASD under the current diagnostic criteria.

Q Can you describe a typical patient?

A I see parents who self-refer to my services. Their child either has already received a diagnosis of autism or they are waiting for the assessments provided by the NHS to be completed. In either case, they want to know why their child’s development is affected and what we can do to improve their child’s life outcomes. They are not content with the expressed judgements that nothing other than special education, respite, speech and language therapy or occupational therapy can help.

They want more and they want this as soon as possible in the child’s life. We advocate early intervention: I see children as young as age two.

Q Do you believe parental intuition is key to identifying autism?

A Yes, a parent’s intuition is key. Often parents do report their concerns to the child’s health visitor or GP, but very often these are dismissed as: “every child develops at a different speed” or “boys are always slower to develop”. Parents are smarter than this, they know something is not right.

Q Do you believe parents playing a key role after their child’s diagnosis is vital?

A Yes, absolutely. The hard work and dedication by parents to help improve the quality of their children’s life is paramount. Parents need to be fully dedicated to an intervention plan: there is no magic pill as autism is a complex disorder. Parents are the leading players in the partnership we develop. I see their engagement as being the most important factor in predicting the prognosis of the child’s progression.

Some early intervention plans do lead to a loss of diagnosis, something that is referred to in the literature as the optimal outcome rather than cure.

Q How do your form a diagnosis?

A We use the gold standard diagnostic tools called the ADOS-2 (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule-2) and ADI-R (Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised) in addition to a range of psychometric assessments which include the Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ), Gillian Autism Rating Scale (GARS), the Vineland Scale and the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS-2). These psychometric tools are very informative in reaching an opinion on a possible Autistic Spectrum diagnosis and often are sufficient to share the findings with the child’s paediatrician seeking the NHS to provide a diagnostic assessment as rapidly as possible.

Q Do you have personal experience of autism?

A Yes, my son, who is now 23 has autism. I faced the same challenges as many do, although his story, particularly the circumstances of his regression into autism, are very unique. He became very unwell at six years old, and prior to that he was a verbal (bilingual) child who was

full of energy. Suddenly he lost everything in the space of two weeks and became completely nonverbal for a year and a half. You can imagine how terrifying it was and there wasn’t really anyone to turn to. Professionals told me: “we somehow missed it and it’s autism”. I had to understand why it was happening to him and what I could do.

I already had a PhD in biological sciences so was able to undertake a critical review and analysis of scientific and medical literature, and I had the opportunity to meet practitioners in France, the US and the UK who also contributed to understanding what happened to my son.

I took my son out of school and home educated him as the school could not meet his needs. So, for four years, I studied, researched, educated and supported my son in his learning and development. It is testament to him that I am where I am today.

I remember those days like yesterday and I am mindful of how hard it is for parents and the children. All sorts of emotions fly around at the time of diagnosis; some parents are in denial, whilst others have already passed the grieving process that starts with the diagnosis and embrace the new paths that lie ahead, even though they are unknown and atypical. It is an extremely sensitive time for children and parents.

Q Do you have any adults that come to you for a diagnosis?

A I have a number of ‘adult patients’, especially high functioning people who have never been diagnosed. They undertake their own research and come to the conclusion they may have autism and would like to know if this is indeed the case as a way to understand themselves better. Many have health issues, for example Lyme Disease, and many come who can barely manage to live independently, their lifestyle and diet particularly can be very poor. Many suffer from mental health issues.

Q How can you help these children and adults?

A A number of physiological abnormalities can be identified in children with autism: increased inflammation and oxidative stress, abnormal mitochondrial function, abnormal levels of neurotransmitters, impairment in sulfuration and methylation pathways, chronic infection issues, as well as toxic overload. Whilst some gene mutations and variants are found in a small (5%) proportion of cases, there is no lead candidate gene or genes that explain the condition as a whole and its features.

Individuals with autism benefit from a range of dietary nutritional interventions which target the identified metabolic and physiological abnormalities. The interventions are multi-factorial and are targeting the identified clinical issues through dietary and nutritional changes.

NADPlus addresses several of the pathways that can be affected, energy metabolism and mitochondrial function, the production of neurotransmitters and even the epigenetic modulation of gene expression.

These approaches are often used in combination with behavioural modification strategies such as Applied Behaviour Analysis and sensory integration therapy. The potential benefits of these interventions are huge for the individuals and their families.

All these changes are put in place one step at a time, following a detailed diagnosis of the physiological deregulations at play.

We do not advocate the use of medications such as Ritalin, or an antidepressant. It’s not about just drugging someone, it’s about understanding the individual. It’s a lifestyle change. >>>

JUNE 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 37

Signs of autism in children Q Are we as a nation getting better at screening for autism?

A Schools are getting better at identifying the condition. In Scotland, which is also where I have a practice, schools carry out a yearly census that accounts for the number of children with a diagnosis of autism, as well as children with a learning disability, social emotional difficulties and communication difficulties. The current rates of ASD diagnosis in school is of one child in 40, which is 2.5% of the school population.

This amounts to one boy in 29 as there are more boys than girls who are affected. In England and in many EU countries, the education system is not forthcoming with such yearly census of children diagnosed with ASD. Q What about outside of the UK? A I just returned from China where health professionals screen children every six months for a period of six years, and that starts at birth. They argue that the age at which children are diagnosed is two, which is much sooner than it is in the UK. I have not seen any official statistics, but diagnosticians believe the rate in China is of 1% and estimate that 10 million children have autism.

Q Which sex is more likely to have autism? Boys or girls?

A It is thought, depending on the studies, that there is between one girl diagnosed with the condition for every three to four boys, but it is understood that more girls, undiagnosed, have the condition.

Girls are generally less aggressive and better at copying social affect, so they appear social to some extent, smiling and showing a wider range of facial expressions, but deep down they struggle to understand their social world. There are studies that show that a quarter of young women suffering from anorexia have a diagnosis of high functioning autism: they obsessabout calorie count and physical exercise and have body dysmorphia.

Q What is your opinion on the results of dietary changes with patients on the autism spectrum?

A There have been a number of clinical evaluations made regarding the benefit of medication in individuals with autism. The UK national guidelines are clear: antipsychotics and antidepressants should not be used to manage the core symptoms of ASD in children and young people.

Whilst the use of Methylphenidate (e.g. Ritalin) may be considered for management of attention difficulties/hyperactivity in children or young people with ASD, the side effects should be carefully monitored.

The Autism Research Institute in the US has gathered thousands of responses from parents on the outcomes of medication compared to that of dietary nutritional approaches.,The outcomes from dietary changes such as removing gluten, milk and sugar were reported by 3,593 parents. (69%) reported their child benefited from the dietary changes, 28% reported no effect and 3% reported some side effects.

The ratio between better than better to worse was 28-1.

The same survey reported on the outcome of Ritalin – 4,256 families reported using this drug. Of those, 29% said their child improved as a result, 26% reported no effect and 45% reported some effects. The ratio between better and worse in that case was only 0.621.

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Early signs or ‘red flags’ that may indicate an ASC diagnosis.

0–12 months Avoidance of/ limited eye-contact Limited smiles or other warm, joyful expressions Limited back-and-forth sharing of sounds, smiles or other facial expressions Any loss of speech, babbling or social skills Flat or inappropriate facial expressions Limited babbling

12–24 months Unresponsive to their name being called No single words No two-word spontaneous phrases No meaningful two-word phrases (not including imitating or repeating) Any loss of speech, babbling or social skills Flat or inappropriate facial expressions

24 months and over Repetitive stimulatory behaviours such as hand flapping, jumping, running back and forth, or repetitive play with toys such as lining up of objects Limited response to requests for attention Limited social engagement Any loss of speech, babbling or social skills Flat or inappropriate facial expressions Difficulty understanding or talking about feelings Limited interest in unusual objects and toys Limited engagement with others during play Reduced gestures such as pointing, showing, reaching or waving

Q What is your opinion on using medication with patients on the autism spectrum?

A The problem with medication, such as Ritalin or antidepressants, is there are side effects. These include sleep difficulties, loss of appetite or the reverse, weight gain with little benefit to the behaviour and mood, or even what is targeted with such medication, attention or mood in the case of an antidepressant. What is more effective is to provide a targeted individualised approach that is based on the deeper understanding of the individual’s physiological imbalances. We look at individuals as a whole, including their lifestyle and eating patterns.

Q Do you believe medication should be stopped?

A The national guidelines state some medication may be considered for managing some symptoms associated with autism such as attention/ hyperactivity, but do not address the core feature of autism. The other problem with these types of medication is that generally speaking, addressing symptoms and not the root causes of a problem is not an effective medical approach. On the contrary, until we have addressed effectively the root causes of a problem we need to be fully aware of the symptoms, so suppressing them does not help. I must stress that it is not advisable to stop a medication without involving the prescribing doctor.

Q So, do you believe in nutritional supplements?

A Yes, I do, but initially there is no point in giving a supplement without having full evidence of its need and without addressing the dietary needs of a person first.

Following a detailed physiological diagnosis, I have found that there are many health issues affecting a child and commonly it is diet >>>

With help from our range of nutraceutical health food supplements that promote psychological and emotional well-being.

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Health | AUTISM

and immune issues (chronic infection, inflammation and allergies and auto-immune disorders) and digestive health. The immune system is often central to autism and is in fact central to many disorders such as chronic fatigue, Lyme Disease or cancer. Nutritional deficiencies, poor gut health, infections and the wrong foods will all contribute to a deregulation of the immune system. It is amazing how many children have such a terrible diet. I offer a treatment plan that is implemented step by step, starting with the diet.

Q Why would you use a supplement if a diet is rectified?

A The supplements are incredibly important to target the identified phsyioglogical deregulations, nutritional needs and rebalance digestive and the immune system.

Q Which supplement do you give to your patients?

A I am particularly interested in NAD+ (NADPlus is a trade name for Eudamon’s supplement) and it is not easy to come by. The one I use comes in pill format. I recommend and use the Eudeamon range of nutraceuticals, specifically NADplus. I am very impressed with the results of this supplement. The effects are mostly seen in attention, energy level and even cognition.

Q What exactly is NAD? A Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is a coenzyme essential to health which when deficient may contribute to the development of mitochondrial disorders and ageing. NAD+ regulates key cellular metabolic function, including energy metabolism and neurotransmitter production, serves as an extracellular signaling factor and is implicated in the regulation of gene expression through epigenetic modulation. It has a number of therapeutic applications, including addiction, ADHD, Parkinson’s Disease, obesity and ageing.

Q Who are Eudeamon?

A Eudeamon is the brainchild of Jane Barnfield-Jukes. Over her many years of counselling people, Jane, an experienced integrative psychotherapist, recognised that, often, her clients needed additional nutritional support during their journey towards a more balanced way of being. She was unable to recommend a suitable supplement so created Eudeamon to meet their needs.

CARE AT HOME Our mission is to support and give you the control you need to retain your independence and have a better quality of life in the comfort of your own home.

We offer a broad range of services to ensure we have every base covered. It’s all part of our tailored approach to care; everyone’s situation is different so our care options reflect that WE OFFER: Personal care and support Domestic services

Q Lastly, what is your wish for autism?

A I hope that professionals would have a fuller understanding of what autism is to enable the fullest identification of childrens’ needs from a very young age and address them through early intervention. Medical professionals should be better trained in diagnosing the health issues, the so-called comorbidity health issues, that are underlying autism and provide access to intervention as early as possible. essence INFO For more information on Dr Amet’s practice, Autism Treatment Plus, please contact http://autismtreatment.org.uk.

Thinking Autism: a charity dedicated to raising awareness on the comorbidity health issues associated with autism, https://www.thinkingautism.org.uk/ To find out more information or to purchase NADplus or another Eudeamon supplement, please contact: https://www.eudeamon.com.

40 essence-magazine.co.uk | JUNE 2019

Live-in care / Night care Specialist care Respite Companionship If you are considering what sort of care you or your loved one might need, why not get in touch?

Tel: 020.7916.7270 Email: info@hartwigcare.co.uk www.hartwigcare.co.uk

Psychology, psychotherapy, psychiatry and counselling For adults, young adults, children and couples We can all have difficulties in everyday life and encounter problems that we simply find hard to cope with alone. You may feel worried, anxious, low, confused, isolated or may be experiencing difficulties in relationships.

These feelings and thoughts may persist and become overwhelming.

In these circumstances it is difficult to know which way to turn.

At times like these it can be helpful to talk things over in confidence with an experienced counsellor, psychotherapist or psychologist who will enable you to explore your concerns in a safe, contained environment, to help you develop appropriate strategies and techniques to cope with your life difficulties in a more effective way.

We offer clinics in Weybridge and East Molesey.

Take a step forward and contact the practice for a free telephone consultation:

Telephone: 0333 0096 321 www.thepractice.co.uk

MY MONTH IN FOOD PHOTO COPYRIGHT: DAVID P MACDONALD

Stephanie Brookes, BBC Radio London food expert, offers her pick of an eating establishment for this month, Santo Remedio in Waterloo.

I

n the predominantly sedentary role as a food writer, it’s more often than not that I’m typing than actually moving around. However, a recent invitation to Santo Remedio made me move quicker than I have in months. I say this as my ultimate food and drink combination is the promise of tacos and margaritas. As a lover of Mexican food, there was a time when it was hard to find anything that truly resembled ‘authentic’ cuisine. I remember as a teenager the closest thing I had in reach was the occasional trip to Chiquito for the sizzling chicken fajitas (still a rather happy food memory for me). Luckily, London’s food scene can now boast an impressive selection of exceptional Mexican restaurants – El Pastor and Corazón are two notable additions. Santo Remedio is part of this new movement offering genuine, undiluted cuisine which reflects the roots of Mexican cooking.

Santo Remedio first came on to the scene in 2013 after starting life in food pop-ups and supper clubs, with its success and popularity eventually leading to the more recent opening in Tooley Street.

The restaurant takes pride in importing specialty ingredients direct from Mexico, including pasilla

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and serrano chilli. Many ingredients are also sourced from local London suppliers who produce delectable artisan cheeses.

As soon as you enter the restaurant, you can almost feel your serotonin levels rise thanks to a vibrant, colourful space, as well as the immediately warm and hospitable welcome – you know it’s definitely time to switch off and relax. Now, if you’re happily of drinking age (I certainly pass this requirement), an immediate order of the house margarita is a definite must. My brilliant dining companion had assured me the margarita was one of the best in town, and I’m certainly not one to pass up such a recommendation.

The potent concoction is made with Tequila el Jimador Blanco, a wonderfully smooth tequila and a perfect choice for mixing, along with a restrained dash of sugar syrup, plenty of fresh lemon and lime juice and a touch of tajin for that final, spicy kick. It’s a strong yet deeply refreshing

Food review | STEPHANIE BROOKES

drink that seemed to replace water throughout the meal, as I vaguely recall.

To match the margaritas, we began with an order of appetite-whetting guacamole and tortilla chips. This seemingly simple fare was instantly elevated with just-out-of-the-fryer tortilla chips: satisfyingly crisp and evenly golden brown, along with a generous scoop of buttery guacamole.

rarely see crab tacos feature on any taqueria menu, so order without hesitation.

I was immediately greedy for more and we thankfully had the foresight to order the pork belly tacos with tomatillo salsa. As you will know if you have slow-cooked pork belly, it renders the meat to a sticky, meltingly soft texture, yet you also enjoy a satisfying contrast via the crunchy crackling.

Tuna tostadas followed thereafter, made with sashimi grade tuna no less. Only a few simple ingredients go into making this dish, yet each one entirely complements the other: the fiery kick of arbol chilli comes through while never disguising the mildly sweet, fresh tuna, with the toasty, nutty addition of sesame seeds giving great flavour while also adding subtle texture. I am happy to report the dreamy guacamole is also to be found in the mix, along with a dash of Tamari which gave a moreish, Unami flavour.

As quickly as the tostadas disappeared, an impressive looking plate of soft shell crab tacos made for a delightful new offering. Again, I’m just awed with how so few ingredients can create such complex and exciting flavours: two freshly made soft tacos were the bed for a crunchy mix of cabbage, serrano mayonnaise and lightly battered soft crab. The sweet, flaky crab mingles effortlessly with the squeakily crisp cabbage. You

The coriander-rich tomatillo salsa added a fresh, aromatic note and gave added piquancy. I’m slightly sheepish to divulge that I can’t remember much after this dish – perhaps it was the blissful state of being food drunk (it’s a thing, I promise).

I wholly recommend clearing your diary if you do happen to make a lunchtime reservation as you will quickly discover that Santo Remedio has a particular way of making the hours fly by; maybe it’s the food, perhaps it’s the tequila? Happily, I think it’s a bit of both. essence INFO

Santo Remedio 152 Tooley Street, London SE1 2TU Telephone: 020 7403 3021 Websites: www.santoremedio.co.uk/reservations; www.stephaniebrookes.com PHOTOS COPYRIGHT: SANTO REMEDIO | NICK HOPPER

JUNE 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 43

The Beano is back!

Shirlee Posner welcomes back the V Café to The Guildford Institute with its refurbished kitchen, new counter and management team: Guildford’s only totally vegetarian restaurant.

O

Nick (left) and Ian with a fresh frittata

n moving to Guildford in 2005, it wasn’t long before I encountered the Beano vegetarian café at The Guildford Institute, just off North Street. This eaterie had a loyal following which loved home-cooked, comforting, vegetarian food. Started in 1982, the Beano was just open on Fridays, but soon extended to full weekdays.

Different cooks prepared food at home as the café kitchen was too small in which to cook. Eventually, of the five original cooks, one remained – Leonie. She carried on cooking together with daughter Emma until she recently decided to retire. A temporary caterer was put in charge and on 14 May the café was relaunched with an extended kitchen and new team. Renamed the V Café, it has pleasingly stuck to its vegetarian principles.

New managers Nicholas Humble and Ian Loffel met at school and became good friends and chefs. After training together at Ealing College, they both had careers amassing 35 years of hardcore catering experience. Many have a romantic idea of what running a café is like: the reality is it’s hard work and many skills are required to be successful. Nick and Ian knew what they had let themselves in for and have short opening hours, virtually unheard of in this trade. The combination of Ian’s mostly kitchen experience with Nick’s management skills honed at Compass Catering means the team has an understanding of different markets from high-end eateries to staff canteens.

The Institute wanted to carry on serving vegetarian food and Nick and Ian have made sure the food is in keeping with what went before.

You may wonder why the café is vegetarian.

Before the historic Grade II listed building became The Guildford Institute, it was the Royal Arms

44 essence-magazine.co.uk | JUNE 2019

Temperance Hotel. The Temperance movement is all about voluntary self-restraint and focused mainly on abstinence from consuming alcohol.

When the hotel closed, the Mechanics Institute was formed in 1834 as a place of education for the local community for whom courses were available for a small fee. In 1892, Guildford Working Men’s Institute merged with the Mechanics Institute and The Guildford Institute was born. It has been offering short courses on art, culture, history and even blogging ever since.

When two former employees at The Institute came up with the idea of the café in 1982, vegetarianism was on the rise in the UK. Although the Vegetarian Society was formed back in 1847, World Vegetarian Day did not come about until the late seventies and the cookery school launched shortly after in 1982.

I was keen to see what the food would be like and it didn’t disappoint. The café runs a tight schedule starting with coffee and pastries served from 9am until noon. The coffee is fresh brew (not barista) and a dark roast Guatemalan blend from Guildford-based ethical roaster Redber. Also on offer is a range of green, black and herbal teas, mostly Twinings. There is a range of cakes and pastries, some bought in and some made on site. Proper Portuguese Pasteis de nata, Danish pastries, croissants and carrot cake sit next to vegan flapjacks and chocolate cake. The vegan flapjack was the perfect balance of squidgy, oaty and fruity and not at all

sickly. The chocolate vegan cake was, again, not too sweet and for a sponge made without eggs, very ‘cakey’. Cakes cost around £2.50 and coffee £2.25. No milky, tasteless calorific drinks here!

Lunch is served from noon until 2pm and is all homemade on site. Expect freshly-made soups (virtually all vegan) with the occasional cauliflower cheese soup thrown in for good measure.

I had sweet potato soup with a brown bread roll and butter (vegan spread also available), £4.95 for a large bowl. I was also tempted by the frittata, stacked with fresh vegetables and made with cheddar cheese and free-range eggs. My partner chose baked aubergine with peppers, olives and tomatoes for vegan main, £7.50, or with salad £9.50. Quiches, tarts and frittatas are on the counter every day, plus a range of four freshly-made salads. The red cabbage slaw with fresh mango was a refreshing take on a classic. The food is delightful and feels healthy and clean.

Baked aubergine with salad

The V Café is intended for those taking Institute courses, but it’s possible to book a table by ringing The Institute on 01483 562142.

The light, breezy and comfortable dining room is steeped in history with solid chairs and tables not too close together. Customers are politely asked to leave their dirty crockery at the hatch to the kitchen. Next to this is a table where visitors are encouraged to take home coffee grinds for use in the garden.

The stained glass is of special note and when I first saw glass etched with ‘Ladies’ Room’, I assumed it was for the powder room.

However, Nick told us historically it was a waiting area for women whose husbands were on courses. Today there is no segregation, just a lovely café serving real food in a congenial environment. essence INFO

V Café at The Guildford Institute Ward Street, Guildford GU1 4LH Telephone: 01483 562142 Website: www.guildford-institute.org.uk/v-cafe-at-the-institute Email: info@guildford-institute.org.uk Shirlee Posner is a food writer and blogger at www.eatsurrey.co.uk and provides social media management, web copywriting and food photography.

JUNE 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 45

The diary Linda Seward’s ’s diary of the best of what’s on in theatre, music, exhibitions, arts and the countryside.

Theatre Richmond Theatre Richmond

Tickets: atgtickets.com/richmond

Cranleigh Arts Centre Cranleigh

Tickets: cranleighartscentre.org

Wednesday 12 June Oysters

Musical adventure full of games and songs for the whole family.

A dark comedy about composer Johannes Brahms at the party celebrating the first performance of his Violin Concerto.

New Victoria Theatre

Farnham Maltings

Tickets: atgtickets.com/woking

Tickets: farnhammaltings.com

Monday 10 to Saturday 15 June Annie

Sunday 9 June, 11am and 2pm Be Happy, Harry Hippo

Starring Craig Revel Horwood as Miss Hannigan and full of unforgettable songs such as It’s The Hard-Knock Life, Easy Street and Tomorrow.

Big-hearted theatre for ages three and up.

Wednesday 5 to Thursday 6 June Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom

Woking

Tuesday 25 to Saturday 29 June Little Miss Sunshine

A new musical comedy based on the Oscar-winning comedy-drama road film.

New Wimbledon Theatre Wimbledon Wimbledon

Tickets: atgtickets.com/wimbledon

Friday 14 to Sunday 16 June The Tiger Who Came To Tea

Delightful family show based on the much-loved book by Judith Kerr and starring the tea-guzzling tiger.

Farnham Wimbledon

Thursday 13 June, 1.30 and 7.30pm The Tempest by The Handlebards

The world’s first cycling theatre company with a unique production.

G Live

Guildford Tickets: glive.co.uk

Tuesday 18 to Wednesday 19 June The Tiger Who Came To Tea

See listing opposite for New Wimbledon Theatre.

Guildford Shakespeare Company Guildford Castle Gardens Tickets: guildford-shakespeare-company.co.uk

Wednesday 26 to Saturday 29 June Horrible Histories: Awful Egyptians

Thursday 13 to Saturday 29 June Twelfth Night

and Terrible Tudors

The GSC’s 14th annual open-air season gets underway with Shakespeare’s sublime masterpiece.

Two great shows as historical figures and events come to life before your very eyes!

46 essence-magazine.co.uk | JUNE 2019

Red Arrows, Wings and Wheels, Dunsfold PHOTO COPYRIGHT: EUAN GUILOR

Craig Revel Horwood in Annie, New Victoria Theatre, Woking PHOTO COPYRIGHT: PAUL COLTAS

essence | EVENTS

Polesden Lacey Shakespeare Polesden Lacey Open Air Theatre, Great Bookham Tickets: dorkinghalls.co.uk

Saturday 29 June and 6 July and Sunday 30 June and 7 July, 2.30pm Love’s Labour’s Lost

Dancing in the Moonlight band perform in Cranleigh.

Epworth Choir

Trinity Methodist Church, Woking

Romance, fun, wit and humour.

Tickets: epworthchoir.org

Rose Theatre Kingston

Wednesday 26 June Music for a summer’s evening

Kingston-upon-Thames

Tickets: rosetheatrekingston.org

An informal evening of tea, cake and inspiring music.

Monday 10 June An evening with Helen Sharman:

Painshill Park

The First British Astronaut

Cobham

Including a Q&A session.

Tickets: painshill.co.uk

Sunday 16 June Adam Kay: This Is Going To Hurt

Thursday 20 and Friday 21 June Music in the Grotto

Comedian’s diaries as a junior doctor, alongside spoof songs.

Enjoy an evening of classical music

by The Yehudi Menuhin School in the beautiful setting of the Crystal Grotto, a magical, naturalistic cave.

Saturday 29 June Rich Hall’s Hoedown

Unique stand up and music.

Yvonne Arnaud Theatre

Richmond Theatre Richmond

Guildford

Tickets: atgtickets.com/richmond

Tickets: yvonne-arnaud.co.uk

Thursday 27 June Paul Young: 35 Years of No Parlez

Tuesday 4 to Saturday 8 June In the Willows

New musical based on classic tale.

Popular eighties’ singer back on celebration tour.

Monday 24 to Saturday 29 June Stones in His Pockets

The Electric Theatre

Thought-provoking, witty comedy.

Music

Guildford

Tickets: electric.theatre

Sunday 23 June Charlie Dore

Boileroom

Live with Julian Littman and Guildford Vox Choir.

Tickets: theboileroom.net

Wednesday 26 June Electrolyte

Guildford

Throughout the year

A community hub showcasing music, events and the arts.

See website for gig details.

Cranleigh Arts Centre

Gig theatre as live music is integrated with expert storytelling.

Woking Symphony Orchestra

Cranleigh

H.G. Wells Conference Centre, Woking

Tickets: cranleighartscentre.org

Tickets: wokingso.org.uk

Wednesday 5 June Leander Kippenberg and

Saturday 22 June Summer concert

Oliver Wass

Including works by Elgar, Stravinsky and Dvorak.

Music from cellist and harpist.

The Tiger Who Came To Tea, New Wimbledon Theatre and G Live

Friday 28 June Toploader

JUNE 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 47

WIN

a top hotel stay and tickets for André Rieu’s 2019 Maastricht cinema event!

I Can Feel It by Dawn Beckles, Diaspora, New Ashgate Gallery

essence is offering readers the chance to win an overnight stay in a premium hotel and a pair of tickets to watch André Rieu’s annual summer cinema show from Maastricht – without doubt the music concert cinema event of the summer!

For 2019 André is asking Shall We Dance? as he invites us to join him in the comfort of the local cinema, welcoming us into the beautiful and historic town that holds such special memories for both André and his fans throughout the world. Performing live from the stunning medieval town square, André is accompanied by his 60-piece Johann Strauss Orchestra, with whom he has travelled the world for over 30 years, as well as a cast of over 100 dancers. With special guests, surprises, as well as some renowned sopranos and tenors, André will this year celebrate the true music of a heart which beats in three quarter time – the Waltz!

A highlight of the year for so many, André’s cinema concerts are unique with the warmth and energy beamed direct to audiences.

Hosted by Good Morning Britain’s Charlotte Hawkins, the concert will also take audiences behind the scenes, as well as an exclusive stage-side interview with André!

RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show 2018 PHOTO COPYRIGHT: RHS/LUKE MACGREGOR

essence is offering readers the chance to win an overnight stay at the Guildford Harbour Hotel on 27 July, as well as tickets to watch André Rieu’s Shall We Dance? concert in cinemas on 28 July. For a chance to win, simply visit www.essence-magazine.co.uk and answer the following question: In which country is Maastricht? Is it: a) USA b) UK c) Netherlands Closing date Sunday 30 June 2019.

essence INFO

To find local screenings and book tickets, please visit: www.andreincinemas.com Terms and conditions: The winner is entitled to a complimentary pair of tickets and overnight stay for two. No cash alternative available. Hotel reservation includes one night in a standard double room in the specified hotel.

48 essence-magazine.co.uk | JUNE 2019

Artemis by Charlie Barton, Moonscapes, Watts Gallery

essence | EVENTS

Spotlight on...

Hampton Court Palace Festival Hampton Court, East Molesey

Thursday 6 to Saturday 22 June The Hampton Court Palace Festival marks its 27th anniversary in 2019 with a world-class line-up of musical talent appearing in Base Court. Acts this year are as follows: Festival favourite Jools Holland (6 June), international group The Jacksons (7 June), playing their greatest hits Busted (8 June), Dutch songstress Caro Emerald (12 June), the iconic Nile Rodgers & Chic (14 and 15 June), legends Tears for Fears (18 and 19 June) and princess of pop Kylie Minogue (20 and 21 June). Musical theatre stars Michael Ball and Alfie Boe will headline the final night of the Festival on 22 June, which concludes with a spectacular fireworks finale. Don’t miss the opportunity to have a pre-concert picnic in the gardens, or why not try the exclusive dining and entertainment packages on offer?

Tickets: hamptoncourtpalacefestival.com Caro Emerald, Hampton Court Palace Festival

Festivals Guildford Summer Festival Various locations Information: guildfordsummerfestival.co.uk

Saturday 8 June to Saturday 10 August

The Festival returns with events to enjoy including the Guildford Cricket Festival (3 to 13 June), the Guildford Beer Festival (7 to 8 June), Guildford Craft Festival (14 to 22 June), Guildford Fringe Festival (28 June to 28 July), Guildford Lions Charity Raft Race (6 July), theatre, music and so much more.

Hampton Court Palace Festival

Hampton Court, East Molesey Tickets: hamptoncourtpalacefestival.com

Thursday 6 to Saturday 22 June

See Spotlight listing above.

RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival 2019 Hampton Court, East Molesey

Tickets: rhs.org.uk/hamptoncourt

Monday 1 to Sunday 7 July

A plethora of beautiful gardens and plants on display.

The Haslemere Gin Festival

Surrey Artists’ Open Studios

Information: haslemeremuseum.co.uk

Information: surreyopenstudios.org.uk

and tickets: eventbrite.co.uk

Saturday 1 to Sunday 16 June

Haslemere Museum gardens

Various locations

National Trust

Saturday 22 June, 7–11pm

The Festival returns for its second year celebrating all things juniper.

An opportunity to visit artists’ studios in and around Surrey.

See website for details.

thread... a festival of textiles

Surrey Sculpture Society

National Trust properties offer perfect venues to explore any time of the year. We list a few, but visit nationaltrust.org.uk for more.

Tickets: farnhammaltings.com

Information: surreysculpture.org.uk

Polesden Lacey

Saturday 8 June

Saturday 1 June to Sunday 14 July

Farnham Maltings

Popular festival returns.

Exhibitions

Hatchlands Park, East Clandon

A sculpture trail, exhibition and more as part of the Society’s 25th anniversary celebrations.

Art & Soul 2019

The Lightbox Gallery and Museum

Information: theartfulgallery.co.uk

Information: thelightbox.org.uk

Saturday 1 to Sunday 16 June

Saturday 22 June to

Marley Common, Haslemere

Over 100 works of art from 23 award-winning artists on show at local artist David Paynter’s studio and home in Haslemere.

Woking

Sunday 25 August Parallel Lines: Drawing and Sculpture

How artists have used line in both drawing and sculpture.

New Ashgate Gallery

Watts Gallery

Information: newashgate.org.uk

Information: wattsgallery.org.uk

Saturday 15 June to Saturday 27 July Diaspora

To Sunday 23 June Moonscapes

Twenty artists and makers of African/Caribbean heritage showcase their diverse work for the first time in Farnham.

In the 50th anniversary of the first moon landing, an exhibition exploring the fascination with our cosmic neighbour.

Farnham

Compton, Guildford

near Dorking

Information: 01372 452048

Monday 10 June to Sunday 21 July Polesden Lacey Rose Festival

Celebrate this beautiful flower in the gardens, house, café and shop.

Saturday 16 and 23 June, from 2pm Pop-up Shakespeare

Enjoy scenes from popular Shakespeare plays enacted throughout the gardens.

Every Sunday in June, July and August, 2–4pm Lazy jazz Sundays

Jazz on the South Terrace.

Winkworth Arboretum Godalming

Information: 01483 208477

Sunday 16 June Father’s Day at Winkworth

Why not take a Father’s Day walk around the Arboretum? Free entry for dads with their children.

JUNE 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 49

WIN

tickets worth £24 a pair to

the Southern Homebuilding

& Renovating Show

29–30 June at Sandown Park The south has seen a growing demand for home entertainment spaces, smart technology and recreational experiences. For those who wish to delve into the domain of at-home recreation, the Southern Homebuilding & Renovating Show is returning to Surrey with practical advice, products and services to help homeowners get closer to achieving the fun follies they desire.

Providing a wealth of industry knowledge from more than 220 exhibitors and 20 plus free daily seminars and masterclasses, the Southern Homebuilding & Renovating Show is an informative showcase of innovative products and services by specialist companies from a range of industries.

An advice centre is open to those who wish to share their project ideas with industry-leading specialists such as property experts Michael Holmes and Jason Orme; self-build expert Allan Corfield; finance expert Tom McSherry; eco expert David Hilton; building expert Bob Branscombe and planning expert Sally Tagg.

For a chance to win a pair of tickets to the show, simply visit www.essence-magazine.co.uk and answer the following question:

Double Twelve Motorsport Festival, Brooklands Museum

Out and about

Slades Farm summer fair Thorncombe Street, Bramley Information: sladesfarm.co.uk

Friday 14 and Saturday 15 June

Tickets: brooklandsmuseum.com

Stalls with something for everyone, refreshments and lunch, with the gardens and woods open for peaceful walks.

Saturday 15 to Sunday 16 June Double Twelve Motorsport Festival

Surrey Wildlife Trust

Brooklands Museum Weybridge

A motorsport extravaganza with speed trials, driving tests, familyfriendly entertainment and more.

Gatton Park Reigate

Tickets: gattonpark.com

Sunday 7 July, 12 noon–5pm Gatton Country Fair

Animal displays, live music, children’s fairground and lots more.

Various locations

Information: surreywildlifetrust.org

Saturday 15 June, 11am–3.30pm Bay Pond, Godstone, Open Day

A wild family day out.

Thursday 20 June, 8–10.30pm Nightjars at Ockham

Enter the mysterious world of Nightjars at Wisley and Ockham Commons and Chatley Heath.

At which racecourse is the show held? Is it: a) Epsom b) Goodwood c) Sandown Park Closing date Wednesday 12 June 2019.

RHS Garden Wisley

Vineyards of the Surrey Hills

Tickets: rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley

Information:

essence INFO

Saturday 15 to Sunday 16 June Specialist plant show

surreyhillsvineyards.co.uk

Displays from 20 plant societies featuring favourites such as delphiniums and clematis, alongside fruit and vegetables.

The five Vineyards of the Surrey Hills – Greyfriars, Chilworth Manor, Albury, High Clandon and Denbies – celebrate the formation of a new English wine region. Take part in different activities at each vineyard, or visit them all.

One day tickets are £8 in advance or £12 on the door (children under 16 go free). Website: www.homebuildingshow.co.uk/surrey Telephone: ticket hotline on 0871 230 1086 (calls cost 13p per minute plus network extras). A £1.50 transaction fee applies.

To register for tickets please use this e-ticket link: homebuildingshow.co.uk/essence Terms and conditions: The winner is entitled to one pair of tickets to the Homebuilding & Renovating Show at Sandown Park. No cash alternative available. Accommodation and travel expenses is not included in the prize.

50 essence-magazine.co.uk | JUNE 2019

Woking

Friday 21 June, until 9pm Wisley Live Late

Experience Wisley after hours with a late evening opening and live music.

Various locations

Saturday 8 to Sunday 9 June

W a t

H e o c y

W b p c

Benenden School invites you to an evening discovering how to help teenage girls achieve their best

STRETCH WITHOUT STRESS ~ How a creative curriculum enables girls to thrive ~ How Modern Boarding supports academic success and wellbeing

We look forward to presenting two key messages about how modern boarding can help girls to achieve their very best: How to challenge girls so that they not only achieve excellent academic results but leave school with a love of learning and a set of skills that fit her to meet the challenges of her personal and professional life in the years ahead.

What boarding looks like in the 21st century, the benefits to pupils and to families and how boarding plays an integral part in a girl’s academic and cocurricular achievements as well as her health.

At Wotton House Hotel Guildford Road, Dorking RH5 6QQ Thursday 6 June 2019 at 6.30pm RSVP: www.benenden.school/wottonhouse or email Sarah Davies: registry@benenden.school Drinks and canapĂŠs

Accomplished art Many people say creativity is in the blood. That seems to be the case for many artists, and none more so than those featured at Sable Interiors’ recent Evening of Art Event as described here by Fiona Applegarth.

H

eld in May, the walls of Sable’s newly reopened Home Accessory Showroom in Portsmouth Road in Thames Ditton were beautifully adorned with an assortment of breathtaking pieces from a number of artists, all of whom have an inborn talent for creating outstanding work. Organised in collaboration with Da Vinci Fine Art, the evening was a great success.

Da Vinci Fine Art, which specialises in modern and contemporary art, was formed by the successful duo Hayley Courtney-Smith and Natasha Lands. As well as having a strong reputation in business development, their company promotes distinctive collections from emerging and well-established artists whom they carefully select not only for the excellent quality of their work, but also their tireless dedication to their art.

Combining artistic flair, originative vision, innovation and enthusiasm with excellent understanding of design and current trends, the Sable Interiors’ team has been creating and delivering spectacular lifestyle solutions for a wide variety of private residential and commercial properties for over 20 years.

Sharing the same vision, it was only natural that Sable Interiors and Da Vinci Fine Art team up, and together they work on projects both large and small. The artists Da Vinci Fine Art represent are all acclaimed in their fields and work in a range of mediums, including paint, photography and sculpture. So, on a warm sunny evening as guests arrived, there was a palpable air of excitement as they viewed the collections from so many accomplished masters.

Amongst the works presented were those from Hungarianborn artist artist Zita (ZEE) who grew up surrounded by art and creativity as both her parents were artists. Selling her artworks and products across Europe and around the world, she is inspired by things around her, including her family and friends and also her love of fashion and nature.

Zita’s quirky Pop Art style is unique. She blends her work with current trends and styles, orchestrating visual components using a variety of techniques. Scanning painted and drawn media into pixels, she manipulates and integrates the imagery with digital painting. The results are amazing!

52 essence-magazine.co.uk | JUNE 2019

Fiona with Craig Campbell’s portrait of HRH Prince Charles PHOTO COPYRIGHT: JJ ADETONA

During the event her works included those featuring the magnificent Freddie Mercury, David Bowie, Marilyn Monroe, Her Majesty the Queen, Madonna and Kate Moss.

For Alfie Bowen, his love of art through the medium of photography started the moment he picked up his mum’s compact Lumix some six years ago. Born in Suffolk, Alfie grew up with the challenges of Autism Spectrum Disorder and Generalised Anxiety Disorder. Education proved a tough time for Alfie as he was bullied almost constantly leading him to refusing to leave his bedroom at 16 years old. His life was transformed when he went on to join a private special educational needs school in 2014 where he made friends and his confidence grew.

Candy PHOTO COPYRIGHT: ALFIE BOWEN

Freddie Mercury, David Bowie and Madonna (top right) artworks by Zita (ZEE) PHOTOS COPYRIGHT: JJ ADETONA

Alfie has a life-long obsession with the natural world and gets all his inspiration from the wildlife around him. Drawing on past experiences, he injects his emotional energy into his work, and has worked incredibly hard to develop a unique style and carve out a career in the art world. It’s not surprising that Alfie is now an internationally-renowned fine-art photographer. Working largely in wildlife conservancies, Alfie invests hours into every image. The challenges associated with capturing each image are considerable and it can be lonely, cold, frustrating. As he explains: “I often fail, but that’s all part of the game and as I’ve learnt throughout life, nothing worth having comes easy.”

Renowned artist Craig Campbell’s work was also on display at the Sable event. Born in Ayrshire, Craig is one of Scotland’s leading portraiture and figurative artists. His inspiration comes from sports and personalities and his works feature the likes of musician Keith Richards, Marilyn Monroe, Jimi Hendrix, Frank Sinatra and Sir Alex Ferguson. His recent portrait of HRH Prince Charles was much admired by all during the evening. Da Vinci Fine Art also promote works from a wide range of other artists, including those by Finn Stone and Onyx.

Having inherited all the exuberant energy and strength of conviction of Irish parentage, Finn’s 22-year career has been driven by his zest for life, resulting in a relentlessly spontaneous creative drive. An indisputable master of mediums, much of Finn’s works include a selection of difficult or found objects within his series of popular art historical paintings. His inexhaustible source of gregarious inspiration is evident in his works featuring famous faces of Van Gogh in hand painted cut paintbrushes, Elizabeth

Taylor, David Bowie, the Girl with the Pearl Earring and his breathtaking Beethoven which is produced in real violins.

Born and raised in the East End of London, Onyx is a self-taught artist. After an accident a few years ago left him in a coma for several weeks and a year in recovery, he turned to art as a form of therapy. Onyx creates three dimensional sculptures out of found man-made artefacts, and produces limited edition 3D Lenticular prints. This amazing effect is created by using 3D images which are then interlaced at different increments providing viewers with a visual illusion.

Other works available during the evening included those from Leigh Banks, Richard Zarzi, and Garry Gilchrist, all of whom produce strikingly different creations. It’s evident that each artist has their own story – born out of their innate ability and greatly influenced by their heritage and life experiences.

essence INFO Fiona Applegarth is director of interior design company Sable.

Sable Interiors Ltd 124 Summer Road, Thames Ditton, Surrey KT7 0QR Websites: www.sableinteriors.com; www.davincifineart.co.uk Telephone: 020 8398 9777

JUNE 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 53

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Finding your next home...

BARNES P

O

.

www.barnes-london.com

Knight Frank www.knightfrank.co.uk

Trenchard-Arlidge www.trenchardarlidge.co.uk

John D Wood www.johndwood.co.uk

Curchods www.curchods.com

Broadway and Parsons Green takes Grosvenor Billinghurst 17 minutes to Oxford Circus and just www.grosvenorb.co.uk half an hour to Canary Wharf.

Heathrow Airport is 32 minutes away from nearby Hammersmith Underground.

Aspire Fulham has a vibrant mix of shops, www.aspireluxuryproperties.co.uk restaurants and bars, whilst Bishops Park and the river provide some peace and quiet. Nearby Ofsted ‘outstanding’ rated schools include Fulham Cross Girls School, London Oratory School as well as APW Lettings independent schools such as Fulham www.apwproperty.com Prep School.

For further information please contact Octagon on 020 8481 7500 or Strutt & Parker on 020 7731 7100.

Waterfords www.waterfords.co.uk

Octagon 020 8481 7500 | OCTAGON.CO.UK www.octagon.co.uk

17:22 54 essence-magazine.co.uk | JUNE16/02/2018 2019

Fox Wood £2,000,000 Walton-on-Thames

Fox Wood is a unique development of just 16 homes built in 2006 by Octagon, adjacent to Burhill Golf Club and surrounded by woodland. Fox Wood is accessed via electric gates and all of the properties have access to Burhill Golf Course. feel throughout. The tiled entrance hall gives access to all principal reception rooms. The stunning the front and a spacious study with built-in units. The open plan kitchen/breakfast room with island and wine fridge overlooks the large rear garden. There is a separate utility room plus a cloakroom to

own separate bathroom and eaves storage.

O

shrub borders. The development is set behind secure electric gates.

W S

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and there is a wide choice of recreational facilities including health clubs such as David Lloyd and S

essence

PROPERTY

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JUNE 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 55

8 High Street, Cobham, Surrey, KT11 3DY Telephone: 01932 588288

Sandroyd Lodge Offers in excess of ÂŁ1,000,000 Green Lane, Cobham

A pretty, three-bedroom, Victorian lodge house retaining many of its original features, located along the tree-lined Green Lane, just off Fairmile Lane and within a short stroll of Fairmile Common. Sandroyd Lodge also boasts a detached guest annex and sits within south facing gardens.

The ground floor accommodation comprises an orangery opening onto the garden, a dining room and separate living room both featuring open fireplaces. There is also a kitchen breakfast room with a stable door opening onto the garden.

Additionally, there is a downstairs cloakroom.

On the first floor there are three bedrooms and a lovely family bathroom. The master bedroom features a built-in wardrobe and is double aspect.

Within its grounds Sandroyd offers a detached two storey guest annex complete with a garage. This is fully heated and powered and features two reception rooms, a fully fitted shower room and a generous bedroom.

Outside, the property is accessed via a gated driveway.

The wrap-around garden is well landscaped and features mature planting.

The property is located in a no through road close to the popular ACS Cobham International School and set within the Fairmile area of Cobham. Access to Fairmile Common is within a few yards and Cobham High Street can be reached by foot via a series of footpaths.

The ultimate summer space at Titlarks House

As well as a formal dining room with space to seat si teen, there is a T den, luscious drawing room and at home study, behind which sits a library cigar room private bar with a humidity and climate controlled wine room, with storage for up to bottles providing the ideal space for a grown up one. ith summer ust around the corner,Kim the comments; benefits of having Broadway and Parsons Green takes “Thisan is my first The fourth floors are home to a family The first floor offers the grand master bedroom, with a bespoke e pansive, tran uil garden comes into its own in readiness for 17 minutes to Oxford Circus and just opportunity to work with Octagon bathroom and the additional double designed walk in shoe wardrobe, his n hers dressing rooms evenings filled with ros and recreation. half an hour to Canary Wharf. since founding my luxury interiors bedrooms, each featuring built in and en suite bathrooms, plus a sitting area and a balcony to Heathrow Airport is 32 away filled company, and to come on board at wardrobes and two also enjoying overlook the south facing garden forminutes those sunshine Titlarks ouse, a oint venture between Octagon and ebbell from nearby Hammersmith the concept stage is exciting, en-suites. omes on unningdale s premier residential al fresco breakfasts. There is a gym ad acent to the master suite road Titlarks ill, Underground. allowing tooutdoors. create a truly with a separate staircase linking the leisure comple below. offers incomparable opportunities for en oyingusthe Innovative outdoor includes ith a rear space south facing plotthe spanning . acres, and landscaped aspirational home to show their Fulham a vibrant mix are of shops, covered lower courtyard gardens, The additional four has double bedrooms fully e uipped with greenery wrapping around the , potential s ft super mansion, purchasers. restaurants bars, whilst landscaped spacehave to the front and dressing rooms, built inand wardrobes and enBishops suite bathrooms, residents a wealth of choice when it comes to outdoor while a lift Park provides betweensome the two floors. living. reatingbalconies a seamlessand transition“The between the house and its andeasy the access river provide Bishops Row townhouses are rear, as well as private a full of sliding stretch from theinside, leisureso we are peace and quiet. Nearby Ofsted surprisingly large terraces. gardens, The pièce de wall résistance in glass doors Aspirational interiors haverated beenschools created by im arvey, with suite to the impressive super room, incorporating kitchen, ‘outstanding’ include focusing on creating free flowing outdoor living comes in the form of bespoke artwork and murals adorning walls, and lust worthy dining and living space.

Fulham Cross Girls School, London spaces within the show home to the roof top terraces from Plots 8 and furnishings including an art deco style mirrored bar, complete School as well as demonstrate how flexible the with crystalOratory 9, which give residents unbeatable glassware perfectly complementing the high uality lass sky lights float above the indoor m m swimming pool independent schools such as Fulham different rooms and levels can be. views towards the River Thames.

Octagon fi tures and finishes throughout. and hot tub, whilst the steam room, sauna and treatment room Prep School.

Using sophisticated tones and Plot 9 willprovide also feature lift to all floors. amplearela ation space if the weather turns.

This modern mansion is located within easy walking distance textures, from greys, bronze finishes For further information pleasebouti ues, cafes, Launching the Showhome of unningdale town centre, with its shops, The grandeur of thewithin gardenPlot carries through the rest of Titlarks and woven leathers to herringbone contact Octagon on 020 1 in early February, Octagon brought restaurants and mainline train station 8481 where7500 trains go into ouse, with a uni ue triple height grand reception hall providing and geometric prints, the scheme is or Strutt & Parker on 020 7731 7100. ondon aterloo every minutes. eathrow Airport is ust Kim Harvey ofestic Kimentrance Harvey Interiors a ma space. irca , contemporary s ft and overandftelegant in with a miles and entral ondon is miles away. thean hall incorporates an overlooking galleried landing from onboard length, to create aspirational tailored finish, inspired by classical which athe delicate, bespoke chandelier hangs, helping to create the scheme within London British style and history.”

Guide price: £15m. Contact Octagon on 020 8481 7500, ultimate space for townhouse.

In addition to entertaining. the high or Knight Frank on 01344 624732.

Bishops Row offers exceptional quality finishes and specifications This e pansive home is set across two floors, with the ground level links inrooms. to theThese West End and synonymous with the Octagon name, reaching over , s ft and hostingtransport seven reception the City.

Nearby Putney Bridge station each room has been given a personal include the super room a kitchen breakfast family room featuring provides access to Sloane Square and feel, withmarble bespoke cabinetry and hand worktops hand finished units by harles orke, with a curved glass wall offering views to the indoor swimming pool. Fulham London Victoria, whilst sourced artwork throughout.

020 8481 7500 | OCTAGON.CO.UK

Esher Green, Esher KT10 • EPC: E • Guide price £2,295,000

In a prime location in the heart of Esher overlooking the green is this beautiful and unique period family home, parts of which are thought to have been built in the late 1700s. Exquisite and characterful accommodation approaching 4,000 sq ft. Includes four/five bedrooms, two bath/shower rooms, kitchen, breakfast room, cellar, garage and spectacular reception room leading to the patio and heated swimming pool.

The wonderful walled rear garden extends to approximately 130 ft, with further garaging and generous off-street parking to the north side.

Brisson Close, West End, Esher KT10 • EPC: D • £1,050,000

Situated in the heart of the beautiful West End area of Esher is this spacious family home which includes three/four bedrooms, (fourth bedroom currently used as a dressing room) two bath/shower rooms, two receptions, conservatory, kitchen/breakfast area, utility, cloakroom, attached garage, off street parking and charming south facing rear garden. The village green, duck pond and renowned Garsons Farm are within easy reach. Esher town centre and train station are within close proximity offering routes in to London Waterloo in under 30 minutes.

ESHER 01372 462211 • WWW.JOHNDWOOD.CO.UK

APW Lettings, Weybridge 134 Oatlands Drive • Oatlands Village • Weybridge • Surrey • KT13 9HJ t: 01932 857300 e: weybridge@apwproperty.com Office hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm. Saturday 9am to 5pm

www.apwproperty.com Broadwater Close, Burwood Park, Walton-on-Thames, KT12 £10,000 per calendar month Available: 25 July 2019 Number of bedrooms: Six Walking distance to Walton Station and Queens Road shops. Luxurious Octagon house in the exclusive Burwood Park Estate boasting six bedrooms and six bathrooms, of which master bedroom offers a dressing room and two ensuites. Open-plan reception rooms and open-plan kitchen/breakfast room.

Positioned on a large plot with enclosed garden, driveway, electric gates and integral double garage.

Bowater Ridge, St Georges Hill, Weybridge, KT12 £5,299 per calendar month Available: 29 June 2019 Number of bedrooms: Five Located within the prestigious and private St George’s Hill estate and just a short drive from Weybridge station. This spacious family home offers a modern eat-in kitchen, five good size reception rooms, five double bedrooms, four bathrooms and set within a large landscaped garden.

St George’s Hill Golf Club can be found within the estate as well as the St George’s Hill Lawn Tennis Club.

A wonderful and convenient country home.

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2 Ockham Lane, Ockham GU23 Dating from 1700, a beautifully presented Grade II listed country house in an outstanding rural setting offering excellent accommodation with a combination of beamed rooms as well as impressive rooms with high ceilings and large windows - offering the best of both worlds.

• • •

Village location Approximately 4,168 sq.ft Open views

Your Surrey expert, Tim Harriss, looks forward to helping you. tim.harriss@knightfrank.com 01483 665932

Guide price

£1,999,500 knightfrank.co.uk Connecting people & property, perfectly.

In an elevated position with remarkable views.

1

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2 Dorking, Surrey RH4 A stunning family home in an enviable and elevated position with remarkable views over Dorking and towards Denbies Vineyard, Ranmore Common and Leith Hill, close to the town centre.

• • • •

High ceilings Kitchen/dining room leading to terrace Exquisite fireplaces Terraces

Our Surrey Hills expert, James Grillo, looks forward to helping you. james.grillo@knightfrank.com 01483 665932

Guide price

£1,500,000 knightfrank.co.uk Connecting people & property, perfectly.

Highams Lane, Chobham GU24 8TD • £1,250,000 Situated within a semi-rural location, this gated four-bedroom detached residence occupies a plot of approximately 0.33 of an acre and overlooks farmland to the front aspect.

Lyne Lane, Ottershaw, Surrey KT16 0AL • £1,399,950 Set on a plot of approximately half an acre, in the heart of Lyne Village this substantial six-bedroom residence provides 4,252 sq ft of accommodation.

WATERFORDS CHOBHAM • 32 HIGH STREET, CHOBHAM, SURREY GU24 8AA • 01276 903300 • WATERFORDS.CO.UK

COBHAM

PRICE £1,195,000

A superbly presented, renovated and redesigned family home featuring a most complete and exacting standard of immaculate, aspirational accommodation. Just over 2,500 sq ft. Three reception rooms. Re-fitted kitchen/breakfast. Utility. Four double bedrooms. Re-fitted bathroom and en-suite shower room. South west backing landscaped garden. EPC: C.

SOLE AGENTS

OXSHOTT

01932 864242

PRICES £745,000 and £765,000

Two brand new semi-detached houses at the end of an established cul-de-sac. Walking distance of shops, pub, restaurants and station. Hall. Cloakroom. Family Room. Fabulous 25' x 17' kitchen/living/dining room. Three bedrooms. En-suite shower room and family bathroom. South west aspect rear gardens with extensive paved terraces. Parking for two cars. EPC: B.

SOLE AGENTS

01932 864242

Estate Agents in Cobham, Stoke D’Abernon and Oxshott for over 80 years

Homes as exceptional as you are When it comes to your home, you deserve the best. And that’s what we deliver. At Aspire Luxury Properties it’s our mission to create the finest residences in the country; spaces that inspire and delight those lucky enough to live in them.

We’re perfectionists, with a global reputation for craftsmanship and integrity. Each of our homes is unique, built to the highest quality and designed to stand the test of time.

This is a lifestyle that goes beyond luxury. Elegant, spacious and truly extraordinary, an Aspire home is an investment that will reward you for years to come.

For more information about our luxury design and build solutions, and to book a no obligation meeting with us to discuss your dream build, please call us on 01372 621 162 or email info@aspireluxuryproperties.com

Extraordinary homes for extraordinary people.

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20/05/2019 14:38

Abel

London’s Premier Mover Moving London’s Finest Homes

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14:38

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home@abels.co.uk | abels.co.uk

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SUPERIOR HOMES FOR A S P I R I N G L I F E S T LY E S Designed and built by premier luxury housebuilder Octagon, Broadoaks Park is soon to launch its magnificent mix of family homes set in approximately 25 acres of green space.

Connecting city and country lifestyles, this unique and exclusive development will offer a range of beautiful homes, from stylish apartments to spacious detached family houses. Centred around a Grade II Listed mansion alongside original lodges, a coach house and ornamental gardens, Broadoaks Park offers a blend of heritage and modernity to create a one-of-a-kind community.

R E G I S T E R YO U R I N T E R E S T T O DAY B R O A D O A K S PA R K . C O . U K

020 8481 7500 | OCTAGON.CO.UK

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15/05/2019 16:44