essence issue 60 by essence magazine

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TOURBILLONS

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Cowdray Park Polo Club

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England v 'the Americas' Saturday 16 May £15 per adult entry, under 12s free Pre-booked picnic spaces at pitchside available www.cowdraypolo.co.uk For full details of all Cowdray Park’s ﬁxtures including the Jaeger-LeCoultre Gold Cup for the British Open Polo Championship 23 June – 19 July visit www.cowdraypolo.co.uk or ring 01730 813257

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April 2015

All change Times change quickly and sometimes imperceptibly, so it’s always interesting being pulled up by evidence showing just how much change does take place. Myanmar, formerly Burma, has emerged from international isolation and provides a snapshot of what Asia was like before economic development. Hotelier and entrepreneur Misuu has seen monumental changes to her native and beautiful Inle Lake region within her lifetime. Managing progress is a challenge, in which Misuu has become an international voice championing sustainable development that helps local indigenous communities. Also in this issue, Tenerife’s southwest coast reveals itself to Hanna Lindon: an unexpected world of one-car villages and scattered seaside towns amongst spectacular volcanic scenery. Exciting as the Six Nations rugby tournament was, a Grand Slam wasn’t achieved, but Vauxhall has produced one of its own to add some machismo to their ADAM range of superminis. The hot topic of pensions is in the news and Simon Lewis offers some invaluable advice on recent changes in pension legislation. With stylist Anita Feron Clark’s ideas for school fundraising and the usual essence selection of the best in food, travel and events, there is plenty to keep readers occupied now longer evenings are with us. The essence team

Image used with permission: Thahara. COPYRIGHT: JONATHAN PERUGIA PHOTOGRAPHY.

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Travel

Hanna Lindon discovers the southwest coast of Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, and finds it’s a forgotten world of one-car villages, genteel seaside towns and striking volcanic scenery.

Turismo de Canaries

Photo © Robert Day

Motoring

Euan Johns looks at Vauxhall’s new Grand Slam supermini which has filled a gap in its ADAM range, introducing more machismo into this stylish and decidedly nippy little car.

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Interview

Award-winning Scottish actor Tom Conti is currently starring in Bill Kenwright’s production of Reginald Rose’s classic drama, Twelve Angry Men. essence caught up with Tom during his busy touring schedule.

Food

Crates Local Produce chooses current seasonal offerings including watercress, spring onions, young cheese and crab with recipes for each to try and enjoy.

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Contents April 2015

25Style

Personal stylist Anita Feron Clark offers inspiration to raise much needed school funds.

26Fashion

With the horseracing season almost upon us, Gina Bacconi demonstrates cool and stylish trends that won’t break any dress codes.

Artisan food

Shirlee Posner sources local niche producers and introduces readers to Butter and Cream Cakes and Secretts Farm shop, including the revamped Eliza’s Tea-Room.

36Food review

The historic Cock Inn at Headley reopens its doors following an extensive refurbishment. Head chef Mark Evans and his team serve up local food with a variety of craft ales and beers.

42Legal

Jennifer Dodds examines two important areas of property ownership: property management and boundary disputes.

Finance

Image used with permission: Thahara. COPYRIGHT: JONATHAN PERUGIA PHOTOGRAPHY.

Conservation Myanmar, formerly Burma, has recently emerged from international isolation and hotelier and entrepreneur Misuu has seen monumental changes to her native and beautiful Inle Lake region. Misuu has become an international voice championing sustainable development that helps local indigenous communities. essence found out what drives her.

essence team

Simon Lewis looks at the effects of changes to recent pension legislation, and offers advice on how to manage them.

46Education

Michael Connolly, headmaster at Cranmore School, West Horsley, discusses the importance of science in the school curriculum.

48Leisure breaks

Rebecca Underwood experiences a relaxing weekend break on the shores of Lake Geneva in Switzerland’s largest city, Zürich.

Events

Linda Seward’s detailed look at the best of what’s on in theatre, music, exhibitions, arts, sports and countryside over the coming weeks.

61Art

Acting Editor: Andrew Guilor Contributing Editor: Louise Alexander-O’Loughlin Publishing Manager: Rebecca Peters Production Manager: Linda Seward Designer: Sharon Smith Senior Designer: Jason Mayes, telephone: 01932 988677, email: editor@essence-magazine.co.uk Advertising Manager: Andrew Peters, telephone: 07980 956488, email: marketing@essence-magazine.co.uk Advertising Sales: telephone: 01932 988677 email: marketing@essence-magazine.co.uk Advertising Sales Executive: Nadine Schioldan, email: nadine@essence-magazine.co.uk Contributors: Hanna Lindon, Michael Connolly, Rebecca Underwood, Anita Feron Clark, Jennifer Dodds, Simon Lewis, PJ Aldred, Shirlee Posner, Jennifer Sutton, Naomi Diamond, Euan Johns

essence magazine

Watts Gallery and Artists’ Village is just thirty minutes from Waterloo. Dedicated to the art of Victorian artists G.F. and Mary Watts, it’s a unique establishment of national significance.

64Charity

Over 300 musicians will come together to raise money for local children’s charity Rainbow Trust, all inspired by a very special little girl, Rowan Todd.

Maple Publishing Limited, the publishers, authors and printers cannot accept liability for errors or omissions. Any artwork will be at owner’s risk. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the copyright holder and publisher, application for which should be made in writing to the publisher. The opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. essence is posted by Royal Mail to key addresses in Cobham, Oxshott, Esher, Weybridge, Guildford and outlying areas. Properties in all the major private estates, including St George’s Hill, the Crown Estate and Wentworth Estate, receive the magazine 10 times per year. essence is also distributed to selected estate agents and is available at city businesses, London hotels and Heathrow airport lounges. Design and production www.domino4.co.uk

APRIL COVER www.essence-magazine.co.uk

Traditional Fisherman on Inle Lake, Myanmar Used with permission: Thahara, Copyright: Jonathan Perugia Photography

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essence travel

Red

planet Away from the tourist resorts of the southwest coast, Tenerife is a forgotten world of one-car villages, genteel seaside towns and volcanic scenery. Hanna Lindon rediscovers the largest of the Canary Islands.

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Turismo de Canaries

f it weren’t for the sun blazing overhead like a newly minted coin, we could be walking on the surface of Mars. Our boots leave deep prints on the dusty earth as we skirt a forest of red rocky pinnacles and pick our way over ancient lava flows. The cone of a vast volcano rears overhead, its summit hidden by a spaceship-shaped lenticular cloud, and the desert landscape that rolls off towards the horizon is stained in fifty shades of ochre. Travel doesn’t get much more exotic than this – so it might surprise you to learn that we’re in one of western Europe’s most popular package destinations, just a four hour flight away from London. Tenerife has suffered from a bad rep in recent years. British tourists have been flocking to the largest Canary Island since the nineteenth century when the elegant town of Puerto de la Cruz was a byword for fine hotels and coastal beauty, but the advent of affordable package holidays in the 1960s quickly led to overdevelopment. Visitors were looking for guaranteed sunshine and glorious

beaches – and southern Tenerife had both in abundance. Giant resorts such as Playa de las Américas, Los Cristianos and Costa Adeje mushroomed up around the south coast, redefining Tenerife’s international reputation and overshadowing the prettier towns in the north. Now, though, the island is in the grip of yet another tourism renaissance. Visitors are beginning to rediscover the beauty of its volcanic interior, particularly the ethereal landscapes of Teide National Park and its namesake peak El Teide. We’re here – myself and my sprightly 76-year-old grandma Trudi – to rootle out Tenerife’s scenic secrets, enjoy some relaxed walking and dose up on a bit of sun at the same time. Our base is a cosy little wood cabin in the hills above Puerto de la Cruz, within striking distance of Spain’s highest peak. Nieves, the wonderful Spanish owner, assures us that the views from our window will span the ocean in one direction and El Teide in the other. There’s only one problem – we can’t see them. >

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Hanna Lindon

essence travel

“A few hundred metres up the winding mountain road, the fog suddenly begins to melt away. A ray of light hits the dashboard, a hint of blue sky flashes in the wing mirror – and then we’re driving above the cloud with a mist-wreathed pine forest falling away beneath us.” Hanna Lindon

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Hanna Lindon

spritzers is tempting, but we’ve planned to trek to the top of Guajara, Tenerife’s fourth-highest mountain. It’s a less daunting proposition than El Teide itself, which requires a summit permit and can induce altitude sickness in the inexperienced, but Guajara is still an eight kilometre hike over steep and sometimes difficult terrain. Luckily, the views are spectacular enough to distract us from the burn in our thighs. El Teide spears the blue sky at our backs, dried lava rivers cascading down its sides. The castellated summit ridge of Guajara rears overhead, and the pine forests that plunge down towards the coast are hidden in a cauldron of broiling low cloud. Strange, burnt umber-shaded rock formations stand like silent sentries beside the path as we gain the summit and begin the weary plod back down to Parador. This is what it must feel like to walk on Mars. To appease our aching legs, we decide to spend the following day exploring Puerto de la Cruz. Once a genteel nineteenth century spa town, where Victorian ladies came to bathe away their aches and pains, the port is today one of Tenerife’s most charming resorts. We pick up a couple of strawberry-flavoured cones at the ice cream shop in the main square, then spend an enjoyable few hours wandering around the Old Town. >

Hanna Lindon

“I don’t know what’s happened to the sun,” grumbles Trudi, as we emerge that first morning to a wall of white mist. Over breakfast, Nieves manages to communicate with a series of extravagant gestures and plenty of headshaking that the weather is rarely this unreliable and that we could face a full week of impenetrable cloud cover. It’s a blow for our dreams of blue skies and sunshine, but we decide to head into the mountains anyway and stretch our legs on the lower slopes of El Teide. A few hundred metres up the winding mountain road, the fog suddenly begins to melt away. A ray of light hits the dashboard, a hint of blue sky flashes in the wing mirror – and then we’re driving above the cloud with a mistwreathed pine forest falling away beneath us. We learn later that Teide National Park’s lofty height (its central peak rises to a vertiginous 3,718 metres) means that the weather up here is often different to the rest of the island. If it’s cloudy on the coast, you can bet that El Teide will be bathed in golden sunshine. Right then, though, the miraculous change in the weather and the landscape seemed to signal our arrival on a different planet. A few in-the-know road trippers are sunning themselves outside the Parador café as we pull up in a cloud of red dust. The idea of kicking back in a sun-lounger with iced

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essence travel

Go explore... Getting there: One of the attractions of visiting Tenerife

When to go: Searing hot summer temperatures lend themselves to lounging on the beach, but for the rest of the year a temperate climate makes Tenerife perfect for walking, cycling and general exploring. School holidays are best avoided if possible, as flight prices soar and the towns throng with visitors. Where to stay: We booked Casita Ainhoa near Orotava through airbnb (www.airbnb.co.uk). Puerto de la Cruz is also well placed for exploring the quieter north coast. Try Hotel Botanico (https://hotelbotanico.com) for the ultimate in all-out luxury. Where to eat: Enjoy organic fine dining at El Mana (www.elmana.es) in Puerto de la Cruz, tuck into colourful Mediterranean fare at Restaurante Mil Sabores (+34 922 37 22 47) or eat with the locals at Tasca (http://tascaelcallejon.com) in the island’s capital Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

Top attractions: Aside from endless walking and cycling tracks, Tenerife has plenty more mainstream attractions. See hundreds of tropical birds at Loro Parque (http://loroparque.com), swim in rock pools hewn out of lava in the town of Garachico, go scuba diving with Tenerife Scuba (www.divingtenerifescuba.com) or explore the largest volcanic lava tube in the EU (http://cuevadelviento.net).

Hanna Lindon

Guidebooks: Cicerone’s Walking On Tenerife guide by Paddy Dillon (www.cicerone.co.uk) is an essential hiking companion. For something a little more general, try Lonely Planet’s guide to the Canary Islands (http://shop. lonelyplanet.com). Find out more: See the regional tourism board’s website (www.turismodecanarias.com) for additional information.

Historic gems such as the seventeenth century Inglesia de Nuestra Senora de la Pen de Francia church and old customs house Casa de la Aduana are sandwiched between upmarket boutiques, classy cocktail bars and seafood restaurants. There are several rather superb places to eat in the town; we opt for El Mana, an organic fine-dining establishment that has been causing a stir among local gourmands, and we’re blown away by the rainbow salads, homemade pasta and indulgent ‘molten’ chocolate cake. If the weather had been more amenable, we might have spent the rest of the holiday lounging in Puerto de la Cruz’s pavement cafes and relaxing on its black sand beach. Instead, the grey skies force us to hop in the car and drive east in search of more active entertainments. Plenty of Tenerife tourists schedule in a day trip to Teide National Park, but few venture over to the Anaga Park in the far northeast of the island. The drive to our walk’s starting point is long and arduous, passing through the bustling capital Santa Cruz de Tenerife before undulating northwards between meringue-whipped mountain peaks until we hit the coast near Taganana. The scenery here is blindingly beautiful: a pristine volcanic coastline backs onto spiky forest-blanketed mountains that look more Vietnamese than European. We park in the village of Benijo and follow the coastline east. The path leads us past long stretches of pristine volcanic sand and through steep-sided barrancos, passing an idyllic one-car hamlet before spiralling steeply up into the mountains. Wild flowers line the path and the air is thick with the scent of herbs. Drunk on incredible views and stunned by the natural beauty of the place, we wander slowly back along a narrow cliff-top track. It’s easy to tell from the prices at Benijo’s friendly local restaurant that this is no tourist hotspot: an Appeltiser is one euro compared to three at Parador. Sitting alone on the terrace as the sun sinks into the sea, we feel privileged to have seen the real side of this much-maligned island. Few places in Europe can rival Tenerife for beauty, charm and exotic appeal. l

Turismo de Canaries

Getting around: There is an excellent bus system, which serves even the smallest rural communities and makes exploring by public transport a cinch. The main operator is Titsa (www.titsa.com) and information on routes and fares can be found on its website. Car hire is another alternative and there are international car hire firms based at both airports.

Turismo de Canaries

is that the island is so straightforward to reach. easyJet (http://easyjet.com), Ryanair (www.ryanair.com), Thomas Cook Airlines (www.thomascookairlines.com) and Monarch (www.monarch.co.uk) all fly to Tenerife South, with returns from under £70.

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essence conservation

“I love the Pindaya area. I always say it’s like the Tuscany of Burma.” DAW YIN MYO SU (MISUU)

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LADY OF

THE LAKE

As a young girl, Daw Yin Myo Su performed traditional dances to entertain her parents’ guests at their lakeside inn. Today the French-Burmese trained hotelier is the managing director of two of Myanmar’s (formerly Burma) top resorts, The Inle Princess and Mrauk U Princess. The former has been included as one of Condé Nast Traveller’s favourite affordable tourist hotels. essence meets the feminist and entrepreneur who has become an international voice for the challenges now threatening her native Inle Lake. > All images used with permission: Thahara. COPYRIGHT: JONATHAN PERUGIA PHOTOGRAPHY.

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essence conservation

aw Yin Myo Su, also known as Misuu, is a woman of many interests, at the heart of which lie deep-rooted traditional values and a concern for the environment. Internationally respected, she won the 2013 Goldman Sachs & Fortune Global Women Leaders’ Award and believes development should be sustainable and not to the detriment of local cultures. She founded the Inthar Heritage House on Myanmar’s Inle lakeshore to preserve Intha cultural traditions, including a sanctuary for breeding Burmese cats, reintroducing them to the country. Originally from mainland southeast Asia, these animals had lived in the region for hundreds of years, but practically all the purebred cats had vanished

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by the 1930s. Fortunately a few had been sent to the UK, US and Australia before extinction and these were used as breeding stock. The House also has an aquarium to conserve endemic fish species and offers vocational training for local young people. This helps the community diversify livelihoods and obtain a bigger share in the development of the hospitality industry. Pilot projects on good agricultural practices and waste management are also run. The House focuses on both environmental awareness and the preservation and promotion of local culture. It seeks practical solutions to the problems facing Inle Lake and those who live around it. Inle Lake is Myanmar’s second largest

body of fresh water. Surrounded by misty mountaintops, it’s situated in the southern Shan State. It occupies an elevated position, 900 metres above sea level, and nestles at the foot of the Shan Hills in Taunggyi District. Inle has long been a popular stop off for tourists due to its iconic leg-rowing fishermen (which frees their hands to fish), floating gardens, stilt houses and great biodiversity. The beauty of the Lake and that of Myanmar itself results from its long-term inaccessibility. But now it’s well on the way to becoming so accessible there may soon be nothing to access. Tourist numbers have rocketed in the past few years as the country has embraced development. Added to the environmental equation are widespread adverse agricultural practices. These on their own could have a devastating effect on the ecosystem of the Lake in which the Inle Wetland Wildlife Sanctuary has recorded 59 species of fish, 16 being endemic. But sedimentation caused by deforestation is making the 45 square mile Lake shallower with local population growth and tourism adding to the strain. As a child 42-year-old Misuu remembers paddling across the Lake to visit relatives who, like other ethnic Intha families, lived in wooden houses perched on stilts. During those trips she enjoyed scenes that no longer exist today. “Believe it or not, at that time, you could drink the water in the middle of the Lake when you got thirsty. You could swim, fish were abundant, and drought in the summer was unheard of. The situation now is as different as water to oil,” she says. In 2012 the International Institute for Development called for the formation of a single body to oversee conservation efforts at the Lake. Early last year Myanmar President U Thein Sein backed the formation of the Inle Lake Conservation Authority enabling proper control to be exercised. This body now co-ordinates and monitors all conservation activities, prioritises investments and funding and stores data concerning the Lake on a shared database.

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Misuu opened the Heritage House almost six years ago and knows how increased pressures from the transition to a modern economy should be handled. Freely acknowledging the situation has worsened, she regards it as far from hopeless and is clear on its future. essence met with Misuu to find out more.

Thahara experiences in Myanmar Thahara means friendship in Pali, an ancient language of Myanmar. The travel experiences offered are planned to show guests not only tourist sites but also a personal view of local life and customs. Thahara Inle Heritage: Comprises six family sized bungalows set away from the area’s other hotels built of teak and local hardwood. Solar power provides electricity and hot water. Attractions include visits to local villages, craftsmen, cooking classes, festivals, trekking, fishing and bird-watching. Thahara Pindaya: From a hilltop in the rolling countryside experience stunning views of the rainbow patchwork of fields. A two-storey farmhouse accommodates ten people. From private decks or balconies sunsets over the Shan mountains can be enjoyed in comfort. Cooking classes, cocktail presentations, trekking through the mountains and visiting the Pindaya caves are all offered. Thahara Explorer: This is an unmatched opportunity to explore Myanmar’s rivers on a tailored journey off the tourist trail on a ship that comfortably accommodates eight people. Intimate insights into the country await those who navigate the Ayeyarwady and the Chindwin rivers.

• •

Misuu, what's your long-term vision and hope for Inle Lake? I belong to the Intha tribe so I’m proud to come from this simple and warm community. I believe we inherited the Lake from our ancestors, so it’s our responsibility to hand it over to the next generation just as we received it, but with improvements in health and education.

Q A

•

Will increased tourism improve the Lake and the lives of local people? So far it’s generally had a positive impact creating jobs as local guides, boat drivers and souvenir sellers. But there are no more than a dozen locally owned hotels and very few successful, local entrepreneurs. I think locals should see the benefits so as not to feel alienated.

Q A

What are your thoughts on the presence of foreign companies? Do you oppose them? No, you can learn from them. Instead of seeing them as rivals we have to compete by offering quality services. At the same time outside investors should take care of the local community. If Inle is no longer attractive to tourists, no one will come.

How do you think local businesses can remain competitive? Being a local is valuable and attractive for tourists who visit the country because they want to understand who we are and how we live. Visitors don’t come here to see something they can see in other countries. For them, something local is authentic. Being creative, hard working and ensuring the comfort of clients is essential.

Q A

In the meantime, the hospitality training centre at the Inthar Heritage House is busy. All the 40 or so students grew up on the Lake or in its close proximity. Most have received scholarships as they are unable to afford tuition fees.

U Aung Kyaw Swar is principal at the centre and says positively: “As tourism booms and job opportunities open up, we’re simply meeting demand for qualified employees who are not only skillful, responsible and caring to guests, but also mindful about improving conditions for their family, Inle Lake and the country.” Misuu likens Myanmar to a beautiful young woman who’s just coming out of a

convent and who must have the right to make her own choices, even if it means making mistakes. She can learn from those mistakes and move on. Misuu herself is doing just that with her mission as clear as the waters of Inle Lake once were and she is determined to succeed. Myanmar’s waterways are the lifeblood of the country and life unfolds on them so it’s important to get it right. Misuu concludes: “I believe if everyone contributes what they can, it’s possible to make a change, no matter how bad the situation. I just do what I can because I want to hand over the Lake to the next generation in the same condition that I received it from my ancestors.”

•

essence info Website: www.thahara.com

Factfile • Myanmar, formerly Burma, has been the country’s official name since 1989. The • • •

designation has been sometimes contested, but is now used by organisations and governments worldwide. Myanmar’s cuisine is largely unknown outside the country. The national dish, lahpet, is a salad of fermented tea leaves mixed with chillies, sesame oil, fried garlic, dried shrimp, peanuts and ginger. The Golden Rock is a boulder 20 feet in diameter balanced on the edge of a mountain. Legend states that three hairs of the Buddha keep it on its precarious perch. The entire rock is covered in gold leaf to which devoted pilgrims keep adding. In some places the gold is an inch thick and stands out in lumps. There are 500,000 monks and 150,000 nuns in Myanmar so nearly one and a half per cent of the country’s population is in orders. Most boys spend at least some time as monks before returning to their families.

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essence motoring

“Its bold proportions, slick and seductive design and sophisticated surfacing emphasise its sporty characteristics and make you want to take the wheel.” MARK ADAMS, VAUXHALL/OPEL’S VICE PRESIDENT FOR DESIGN

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W O U L D

Y O U

ADAM AND EVE IT... Vauxhall's Grand Slam first arrived on the motoring scene two years ago and immediately found favour with the fairer sex. So, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always been a case for a sporty, more macho version of the vehicle to arrive. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been a while, but with the new Grand Slam this gap has finally been filled in the form of a stylish and decidedly nippy little car. Euan Johns looks at this latest addition to the Vauxhall range. >

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essence motoring

auxhall’s stylish ADAM took the fashion-led, super-mini sector of the market by storm when it arrived in the UK in 2013. With the GRAND SLAM joining the stable as the performance model, Vauxhall can feel they’ve done a good job. This little car comes with the same cool contemporary ADAM style, but is now combined with more aggressive looks and power. The GRAND SLAM has a dinky little 1.4 litre turbo engine that needs to be worked hard, but that’s all part of the fun. The car won’t be setting any new lap records, but it gives a lively performance that packs quite a punch,

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pushing it well and truly into pocket rocket territory. Indeed, relatively modest performance figures are reflected in the small engine capacity, but let’s not be too picky here as you know what you’re getting from the off. In the great scheme of things, the GRAND SLAM isn’t an especially fast car and the foot can be put down on the accelerator without making too many dents in the social conscience. ADAM has quickly established itself as a bestseller within its segment with panEuropean sales of over 125,000 cars since its launch. It’s also been popular in the UK with over 22,000 sold. There was a marked increase in sales last year and the timing of this new release is excellent. Typically for a car of this type, the majority of sales (over 90 per cent) are to private buyers. Take a look and you can immediately see why. ADAM presents an honest, no-nonsense approach that soon wins purchasers over. This model’s low-slung styling falls into the mean and moody category as Vauxhall are trying to attract more male owners: the vast majority of ADAM sales to date have been to women. The chassis and braking systems come from the Corsa VXR, which provides for a firm and sporty ride. All this translates into some good handling and pointed at a corner the car moves in and out with as little fuss as a driver would want. Surprisingly, given the general concept of the ADAM, the GRAND SLAM is pretty much gimmick-free. The exhaust pipe is just that, all pipe no synthesiser, and provides just enough spirited

grunt at speed, reducing to church mouse levels when slowed. A total of ten body colours and further four roof combinations are available. GRAND SLAM customers are singled out as only they can have the Red ‘n’ Roll roof design. The car sits on exclusive, new 18-inch wheels with a distinctive rear spoiler above the rear window and LED daytime running and rear taillights completing a very stylish look. Inside, the Red ‘n’ Roll colour theme is continued. An optional leather package includes a red leather steering wheel, gear knob and handbrake, racing décor on the instrument panel, unique grey/black/red key design and red stitching on door panels. A multi-colour LED interior lighting package allowing eight different ambient lighting colours including white, dark blue, orange and red, are on offer. Prices start from £16,995 on the road, and the GRAND SLAM is now available in showrooms. So what’s the competition? Well, any hot hatchback faces a serious challenge from the Ford Fiesta ST now renowned as being a bit of a leviathan in the sector. It’s also fairly and squarely aimed at the Fiat 500 Abarth. The GRAND SLAM is cheaper than both. For fans of the ADAM and urban driving, this one is for you as it’s really good fun to drive: uncomplicated and individual enough to stand out from the crowd.

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essence info Website: www.vauxhall.co.uk

thomaspink.com SPRING SUMMER PRINTS AT THOMAS PINK

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essence interview

The deliberations of

Tom Conti

Award-winning Scottish actor Tom Conti is currently starring in Bill Kenwright’s production of Reginald Rose’s classic drama, Twelve Angry Men. Currently on tour, the play resides at Richmond Theatre from 27 April to 2 May. essence caught up with Tom during his busy touring schedule…

So here you are again as juror number 8, six months after your successful West End run. What was it about reprising your role for a UK tour that appealed to you? It’s good fun to do this play and I thought it would be enjoyable performing around the country. People outside London really like to visit the theatre. In London you kind of have to drag them kicking and screaming because for lots of people it’s such a difficult event coming into town. It’s nice to take a play you know they will enjoy.

Q A

How are rehearsals going? This must be so familiar to you! It’s only six months since we were in the West End, so it’s pretty much still embedded. It’s strange, but plays do stay in your mind for a long time. If asked to say a line from one, I probably wouldn’t be able to, but as soon as you get with a bunch of actors you just have to find the route and what drawer it’s in, as it were, in your mind. You need to brush up on little bits, but on the whole, it’s still there.

You starred with Sean Power, Robert Duncan and David Calvitto at the Garrick, but how well do you know your other new cast mates? Have you worked with any of them before?

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No, not at all. We’re getting on well, it’s a very good ensemble. We’re all sympathetic to everyone else’s problems because we all have the same ones.

Q A

For those not familiar with the play, tell us about the premise and your role. It’s very simple, but I don’t want to give anything away. A boy has been on trial for murder, a 16-year-old accused of murdering his father. The jurors are a motley bunch, most of them don’t really want to spend time deliberating, and they’re happy to vote guilty and send the boy to his death. The play is set at a time when electrocution was the punishment, the end of life, if you’d killed somebody, and still is in many parts of America unfortunately. So the jurors know they’re sending the boy to certain death, but they’re not prepared to actually take time discussing the possibilities of the case. All except for one man, who is worried, and he votes ‘not guilty’ against all the ‘guilty’ votes, so it’s 11-1. He then starts to try to persuade the rest of the jurors to think a little more deeply – and that’s the play.

Q A

Have you ever been selected for jury service? No, never. A friend of mine who has told me the jurors all took the case seriously and behaved pretty responsibly.

But that’s not always the case. In fact, this play was inspired by the writer’s experiences as a juror – without mentioning the case of course – and how appalled he was about the poverty of deliberations by other jury members. A life is in a jury’s hands and they should be very careful.

Twelve Angry Men was a sold-out smash in the West End and had its run extended twice. Will it be as successful on the road, especially with you leading the cast? I think it’ll be even more successful on tour because it’s the kind of play people want to see. It’s a good cast and for some reason audiences like to come and see me in plays on tour (Tom laughs). This used to be the way it was too. A play would run in London and then if it was successful, it would tour so people around the country could see a successful West End play. Then that changed and tours are undertaken now before going into the West End because it helps the capitalisation of the West End production, which is phenomenally expensive. But with Twelve Angry Men, we’ve gone back to the old formula of making the play a hit in the West End and then taking it around the rest of the country. Audiences know they’re going to see a tried and tested piece.

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Tom Conti starring in Twelve Angry Men. Photo © Robert Day

Denis Lill (left) with Paul Beech (right). Photo courtesy Anton Belmonte Photography

Andrew Lancel (left) and Tom Conti. Photo courtesy Anton Belmonte Photography

Q A

You’re on the road until May with this tour. What’s the most important thing about touring for you? The one vital thing is to travel with your own pillow (Tom laughs). It’s the most important thing. The hotel ones are usually filled with I don’t know what, so take your own pillow.

Q A

Anywhere on the tour you’re looking forward to visiting/playing? I’ve never played York, Leeds or Llandudno, so that will be interesting. One of the nice things about touring is that you see a lot of the English countryside and villages. I love English villages, just love them, they’re so beautiful, all over the country and diverse in their form. Old teashops and all, that’s something to look forward to.

Q A

What are the rest of your plans for 2015? I have another play in the autumn, also with Bill Kenwright, which is

called Before the Party, so when Twelve Angry Men is finished, we’ll start planning the production of that. Bill and I go back years, but I’ve only undertaken two plays with him and they were both immensely enjoyable. One was Noël Coward’s Present Laughter and then we performed a terrific Neil Simon play called Chapter Two. We’ve talked about other productions, but they’ve never come to fruition. I have huge respect for Bill and what he’s done. He started as an actor and now he’s become this huge corporation putting on plays. He’s kept theatres growing and actors and writers in work: he’s done a huge amount.

Q A

An Olivier and Tony Award, an Oscar nomination, you’ve had an amazing career. What have been the highlights? There were productions that were immense fun to do. A musical called They’re Playing Our Song which I did around 1980 with the wonderful Gemma Craven, as well as other dancers, but the play was a two-hander and Gemma was

brilliant. It had a wonderful script and it was like going to a party every night with all the best jokes. As for movies, there’s one nobody ever saw as it was made-for-TV, but was great fun to do and directed by Robert Altman. Again, it was a two-hander with John Travolta and myself. It was originally a play by Harold Pinter called the Dumb Waiter and it’s one of the funniest things I’ve ever done. In fact, there were times where we couldn’t continue because we were laughing so much. Harold hated it though (Tom laughs).

essence info Twelve Angry Men is currently on tour and will be at Richmond Theatre from Monday 27 April to Saturday 2 May. To book tickets visit www.atgtickets.com/richmond. Booking fees apply.

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Cranmore School Independent Preparatory School Co-ed (2½ - 7 years) Boys (7 - 13 years)

A Leading Surrey Prep School Girls 2½ - 7

Boys 2½ - 13

OPEN DAY 8 MAY

www.cranmoreprep.co.uk West Horsley, Surrey KT24 6AT

01483 280340

essence style

Back to school fundraising with style... Personal stylist Anita Feron Clark offers inspiration to raise much needed school funds.

aving survived the 11+ process (and those of you who have been there know this is no mean feat!), my son has earned a place at the school of his choice and life is back to normal in the Feron Clark household. And, soon the scars from tears, tantrums and sacrifices (I’m talking about myself here) will be a distant memory. His primary school teachers have worked hard too and we’re grateful for all their efforts. So it feels good to be giving something back. Helping my children’s school as well as other local educational establishments by running Feron Clark Style evenings to raise much needed funds through the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) is a small thank you. These practical, entertaining and interactive evenings are full of colour and style tips to help busy mums and teachers look their best without breaking the bank. The FCS evenings raise hundreds of pounds for the schools whilst at the same time are fun, appealing to a wide audience. In the past, we’ve covered: l key trends for the season and how to make them work l how to ensure a wardrobe contains clothes we love to wear l the best styles to suit body shapes l colour and styling advice to suit individual personality and lifestyle l looking fabulous over the age of 30, 40 and beyond. Each FCS event is tailored to suit the needs of the school with the presentation lasting up to two hours with plenty of audience participation. New season clothes demonstrating the latest trends, colours and styles are viewed. So, for those looking for a fun and easy fundraising idea for a school, why not host a FCS style night? It’s simple, effective and entertaining!

“The style evening with Anita was incredibly easy to organise and proved to be a fun night out for the ladies. It was well received as a new and different fundraising event as an addition to the usual annual favourites. In my experience, it was one of the most lucrative events organised in the school calendar.” Anna Linch, St. Lukes Primary School How does it work? l

The FCS fee is £190 and tickets should be priced at £15/£20 each to make a return. FCS will donate a raffle prize worth £180; other raffle prizes can raise more. Selling drinks and nibbles on the night is another revenue source.

Why are FCS evenings so successful? The key reason an FCS evening works is that it offers something different from the regular fundraising favourites in the school calendar. It’s also a night out just for ladies – some ‘me time’ for mums and teachers. Finally it’s easy: all the PTA needs to do is provide a venue and FCS will do the rest. Remember, only thirteen attendees are required to cover the school’s outlay. So what are you waiting for? Use the contact details opposite and get in touch! l

essence info Anita Feron Clark With almost 20 years in the fashion industry: 12 years as a senior clothing buyer for Marks and Spencer and Austin Reed, four years as a lecturer in fashion buying and merchandising at The London College of Fashion and over seven years running a business, Feron Clark Style, Anita is able to impart practical advice in a fun and engaging way. For more information contact 07799 856544 or email anita@feronclarkstyle.com. Website www.feronclarkstyle.com

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essence fashion

At the Races 26 www.essence-magazine.co.uk

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02/04/2015 11:20

As the race season beckons, fashion house Gina Bacconi’s statement outfits offer effortless chic. The 2015 spring/summer ‘Races’ collection sees stretch lace and draped chiffon as key fabrics for a sleek silhouette in styles which adhere to the desired dress code for these great events in the sporting calendar. The collection’s classic colour palette ranges from sugary pastels to creamy whites. Top off the look with a matching hat, also available from Gina Bacconi this season. >

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essence fashion

essence info Gina Bacconi Founded in 1914 by Jack Offenbach, Gina Bacconi is part of the Shubette group. The group continues to be run by the third generation of family members. The Gina Bacconi brand is best known for glamorous and elegant dresses for evening or special occasion wear, aimed at the modern fashion conscious woman. Prices from ÂŁ100. Website: www.ginabacconi.com

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49 High Street • Cobham • Surrey • KT11 3DP t.01932 866636

f.01932 860635

e.info@questaonline.com

w.www.questaonline.com

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essence food

At their best... right now Seasonal and local food offers taste, health and even economic benefits. Each month, Crates Local Produce highlights the amazing seasonal produce available from our region.

rates Local Produce bursts with fresh, seasonal food sourced directly from local producers. For more details see www.crateslocal.co.uk. Follow on Twitter @crateslocal or Facebook page Crates Local.

Watercress This is not just any salad leaf, it is one of the most amazing superfoods that delivers both in goodness and flavour. However, not all watercress is the same and anyone who has ever had those pre-packed salad bags will invariably find the leaves lack the lovely peppery punch of fresh watercress picked out of water from their greengrocer. There is a world of difference between the soil grown, mass produced watercress and the traditionally grown version cultivated in flowing water. For goodness, there’s little to match watercress as it provides more vitamin C than oranges, more iron than spinach, more folate than bananas and even more calcium than milk. It is a fantastic addition to any salad or sandwich and makes for a truly delicious soup or sauce. Real watercress has a very short shelf life, so grab it whenever you see bunches in water. It should be dark green, but don’t worry if some leaves have wilted as it is almost impossible to turn it round before that happens. You will still get plenty of leaves from a generous bunch. Image © Le-thuy Do | Dreamstime.com

Spring onions Quite simply, spring onions are as named: very young onions harvested before they grow into white onions. This is what gives them a much milder taste with tender green tops that are also edible. They belong to the same family as garlic, shallots, chives and leeks and are often referred to as green onions or scallions. The most tender spring onions are widely available in spring and early summer, although they grow well throughout the year. An essential element for crispy duck pancakes, these little onions are just as useful in salads, stir-fries, chopped into mash and even added to soups. Their milder flavour lends them to be used more readily raw than stronger white, larger onions. They keep well in the fridge, but to extend their life even further, freeze after washing, chopping and putting into an airtight container that is at least double the size so as not to squash them. Image © Alexander Raths | Dreamstime.com

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Young cheese At this time of year, most livestock is back out in the fields grazing on new, lush grass. Whilst it will still be some time before the taste of grass-fed milk filters through to the more mature cheeses, it makes a welcome enhancement in flavour for cheese best enjoyed young and fresh. Young cheeses are produced throughout the world such as cream cheese, cottage cheese, Ricotta, Mozzarella and Indian Paneer. In the south, it is now easy to obtain locally made young cheese that is fresh and deliciously mild, often produced by the same dairies that offer award-winning mature and stronger flavour cheeses. High Weald Dairy makes a fabulous sheep milk Ricotta in addition to a delightful firm cottage-type cheese, Sussex Slipcote. In the same county is Chillies Farm Dairy whose goat’s cheeses are becoming very renowned and already scooping World Cheese Awards. Image © Ppy2010ha | Dreamstime.com

Crab Visit any decent seafood restaurant and whilst they will still have the more expensive oysters and lobsters as top billing, they still celebrate the tastier brown crab, especially when it comes into season from April. The even sweeter spider crabs are also gaining in popularity in this country, although they used to be considered almost as vermin by fishermen until they realised the massive European appetite for them. Crab is full of flavour and remains one of the most interesting and tastiest shellfish. Unfortunately, in the fast world we live in, we have lost the inclination and knowledge to enjoy a whole crab straight from the shell and tend to only have it prepared in dishes such as ‘cakes’, or dressed for us. Visit the local fishmonger for a whole cooked crab, take a bit of advice and get stuck in, it’s worth it. For more white meat than brown, ask for a male crab. It is also possible to obtain live crabs, but buyers will have to be brave and dispatch them before boiling. Image © Edward Westmacott | Dreamstime.com

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essence food

Watercress, spinach & Ricotta salad www.crateslocal.co.uk Serves four as a side dish Ingredients: Bunch fresh watercress 300g baby spinach leaves 150g fresh peas, when in season (optional) 400g Ricotta, Feta or similar young cheese One red onion Two tablespoons rapeseed or olive oil One tablespoon sherry vinegar Three tablespoons pine nuts Method: • Wash the watercress and spinach thoroughly and dry well. • Cut the semi-soft cheese into cubes and slice the red onion. • Gently toast the pine nuts in a dry pan, stirring often until golden. • Mix together the vinegar and oil or shake well in a closed container. • Mix all ingredients and coat with the dressing just before serving.

Goat’s cheese and spring onion tart www.crateslocal.co.uk Serves two as a main Ingredients: 250g shortcrust pastry, prepared or frozen 25g butter Two bunches spring onions 140g semi-soft goat’s cheese Three eggs One medium potato One tablespoon rapeseed or olive oil Sprig fresh thyme or one tablespoon dried One garlic clove 200ml crème fraîche Method: • Select a deep pie tin of at least 20cm and up to 25cm. Roll out the pastry to fit, line the tin completely with the pastry and refrigerate for half an hour. Whilst chilling, pre-heat oven to 190°C/gas mark 5. • Blind bake by placing a round of greaseproof paper on the pastry and fill with baking beans, dried pulses or rice. After 15 minutes, remove beans and paper and bake for a further five minutes until the pastry becomes a golden colour. • Peel and slice the potato and chop the spring onions, except for around four spring onions to use for the top of the tart. Melt the butter with the oil in a large based pan, adding half the onions and potato to cook over a low to medium heat and turning only occasionally until the mix tenderises and browns slightly. • Add the garlic, thyme and seasoning to taste to heat through for a few minutes more and pour this into the tin along with the goat’s cheese, roughly broken up. • Whisk the crème fraîche with the eggs, season again and add the remaining chopped spring onions. Pour the mix into the tin and return to a 180°C oven. • After around 10 minutes, add full length sliced spring onions to the top and bake for at least a further 30 minutes until the centre sets and the tart is golden brown.

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Naked crab, no dressing required www.crateslocal.co.uk Serves two Ingredients: One large cooked whole brown crab or two smaller ones One lemon, quartered Sourdough bread or rustic loaf Freshly made or quality jar of mayonnaise Mixed salad Method: • Prepare the crab no more than an hour before serving. Firstly twist off the claws and many legs to set these aside, gently cracking each section of claw or leg with nutcrackers or special lobster crackers. • Lay the main shell of the crab upside down with the head facing away and push the back of centre up and out of the shell with your thumbs. • There are now bits to discard completely, including a small stomach sack just behind the crab’s mouth and also the ‘dead man’s fingers’. These inedible feathery grey gills surround the core of the crab, but are not actually poisonous, despite the name. • The meat in the shell can now be spooned out and also in the centre part of the crab that is easier to remove if cut into quarters. • Serve a combination of the white and brown meat just as it is with the cracked claws and legs to be attacked on the plate! Quarters of lemon, a good mayonnaise, real bread and a simple salad finishes this dish beautifully.

Watercress gin cocktail www.crateslocal.co.uk One serving Ingredients: Handful fresh watercress, washed thoroughly Quarter teaspoon granulated sugar Dash of sugar cane syrup, bought or made 60ml dry gin 10ml fresh lime juice Splash of ginger beer Ice, crushed or cubes Method: • Ensuring all stems have been removed from the watercress, ‘muddle’ the leaves in a pint glass or cocktail shaker. This is done by sprinkling the sugar over the leaves and gently pressing, without splitting the leaf veins. • Add the lime juice and syrup and shake well. To make a simple syrup, just dissolve two cups of sugar in one cup of water in a pan over a low heat. Do not boil and allow to cool. • Add the gin, ginger beer, ice and give another good shake. Pour through a strainer into a chosen glass.

essence info Crates Local Produce 24a Carfax, Horsham, West Sussex RH12 1EB Telephone: 01403 256435 Website: www.crateslocal.co.uk Follow on Twitter @crateslocal or Facebook page Crates Local

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essence artisan food

Eat fresh and local Shirlee of Eat Surrey seeks and finds the best small food producers, restaurants, cafés, pubs and shops, publishing a weekly review on their website.

ilford, a small outpost of betterknown Godalming, is home to a couple of Surrey’s culinary superstars. Suke and Tom Wibaut had been making a healthy living as outside caterers in the heyday of the corporate lunch. A seismic shift in the last twenty years from booze-filled lunches to gym sessions put paid to that business model. Undeterred, they watched the emerging cupcake phenomenon and set up ‘Butter and Cream Cakes’. Suke carefully researched cupcake entrepreneurs in the capital and with her combination of competitor knowledge plus years of experience, she launched the new business. Having been stung by high street rents in a past life, Suke and Tom began with a pitch in Guildford’s North Street Market and have not looked back. Cupcakes in a startling range of flavours and designs started the business, and they are delicious. Interesting flavour combinations, with cream cheese frosting, prevents them from being oversweet and gives a wonderful melt in the mouth finish. Blackberry Shiraz, chocolate and chilli, red velvet and salted caramel are just a small sample. But it’s the decorations that really sell these cakes. Stepping behind the counter in the shop is sprinkle heaven. These decorations are used in a stunning range of combinations to make the cakes irresistible. With Suke and Tom’s talents it’s no surprise their brownie sales have started to rocket – choose from salted peanut, apricot and brandy, raspberry and white chocolate or ginger. New flavours are being added all the time.

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A vacant shop in Milford became Butter and Cream Cakes’ new home in 2012. Primarily a production unit as the volume of business outgrew the home kitchen, it’s in here a glittering spectrum of cakes are dreamed up and created for weddings, birthdays and celebrations. Just down the road from the new shop is a Surrey institution, Secretts. Part pick-yourown farm, growers of celebrated salad leaves and vegetables, farm shop and cornucopia of quirky food products, it was home to Eliza’s – a quaint old tea-room. Eliza’s had lost its sparkle and it was welcome news when I heard that Suke and Tom were going to take it over. Just over a year later they have done a wonderful job of keeping doors open to existing customers whilst updating the space and menu gradually and gracefully. Gone are the huge commercial scones that made your mouth stick together and in their place are lovely cakes and freshly baked scones from their shop. In its previous life, the tea-room’s menu was populated with ready-made dishes that staff simply reheated. Now it’s back to real cooking with a more contemporary menu focusing on fresh seasonal food. Delicious homemade soups and salads are on the menu. Roasted butternut squash and goat’s cheese with delicate dressing are options. So are freshly baked tarts filled with taleggio, garlic mushrooms and spinach or roasted tomato or gratin of sweet potato and beetroot. All deliciously comforting, healthy and made fresh each day. Good quality coffee and tea complements the menu.

It’s such a relief the tea-room within Secretts has been a success as it could so easily have been infiltrated by a faceless high street chain. I am really glad it hasn’t and more so as it’s put this venue back on the map for me. Why not combine a visit with grocery shopping – it will not disappoint. Black Barn butchers on site sell free-range, locally sourced pork and feature rare breed beef. The butcher has its own range of sausages, award winning faggots and helpful, knowledgeable staff too. The farm shop is packed to the ceiling with a stunning array of food products along with a huge cheese and deli counter. But for my money it’s Secretts’ home-grown seasonal fruit and veggies that hit the spot. Recently I went for a whirlwind tour with Greg Secrett who is in charge of growing. With his team of 12 he grows vegetables on Secretts’ 150 acre farm for top London restaurants and the farm shop. The combination of the tea-room, shop and zero food miles for local produce makes Secretts a perfect destination and proves that good old fashioned retailing is still a possibility in a world of fierce supermarket food competition.

•

essence info Butter and Cream Cakes 22 Church Road, Milford, Godalming, Surrey GU8 5JD Guildford North Street Market (top end) on Fridays and Saturdays. Secretts Farm Shop and Eliza’s Tea-Room at Secretts Hurst Farm, Chapel Lane, Milford, Surrey GU8 5HU Websites: www.eatsurrey.com, www.butterandcream.co.uk, www.secretts.co.uk

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Jerusalem Artichoke Dauphinoise with blue cheese and a pistachio crust Eliza’s Tea-Room at Secretts always has a layered vegetable style dish on its specials’ board. Past lunches include beetroot and potato with cheese and a hint of cream: a winning format and perfect for a light meal to serve with some green leaves. Having picked some Jerusalem Artichokes with Greg Secrett, I decided to create my own Eliza’s-inspired layered dish. The artichokes will be in season for the next few weeks, so now is the time to enjoy them before they disappear. Slice them thinly for this dish, so cooking the artichokes first makes them a lot easier to handle. I used Quark, a fat free soft cheese as I had been sent some by a dairy to try, but use cream in place if preferred. As the artichokes are coming to the end of their season, they may retain a nutty bite, which I think, adds character. Ingredients 10g butter to grease an ovenproof dish One kilogram of Jerusalem Artichokes. Peel then boil for ten minutes, drain, cool, and thinly slice Two x 250g tubs of Quark or 400ml single cream Four tablespoons milk 150g blue cheese (I used Brinkworth Blue, but any soft style, milder blue will work) One tablespoon chopped fresh thyme Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper One large slice brown bread made into breadcrumbs One tablespoon extra virgin olive oil One tablespoon chopped pistachio nuts One tablespoon pine kernels Pre-heat the oven to 220°C/ fan 200°C/gas mark 5. Method Put half the artichokes in the bottom of the greased ovenproof dish. Mix together the Quark and milk and spread half the mixture over the top of the artichokes. Season the layer and top evenly with blue cheese by just crumbling. Finish with the fresh herbs. Top with the remaining artichokes and Quark. Mix the breadcrumbs and oil together and sprinkle evenly over the top of the dish. Place in a medium oven for one hour. After 30 minutes remove the dish, add the nuts and return to the oven.

•

LIGHTING TO INSPIRE PRIVATE LIGHTING CONSULTANT

• • • • •

Serve with some lightly dressed green leaves. Half the artichokes can be replaced with potatoes for a less feisty dish. Shirlee Posner

JOHN HODGSON LIGHTING

SHOWROOM AND IN-HOME LIGHTING CONSULTANTS

Designer: Liz Hodgson MSc Lighting Design Mobile: 07946502170 www.johnhodgsonlighting.co.uk

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essence food review

The Cock Inn:

fresh, local and seasonal

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Headley Village’s charming The Cock Inn reopens its doors after an extensive refurbishment. essence visited and met with head chef Mark Evans, who has a total of five prestigious rosettes under his belt.

seventeenth century pub steeped in history in the heart of the picturesque village of Headley has thrown open its doors once again. An extensive £450,000 refurbishment has transformed this unloved pub into an authentic and high quality drinking and dining establishment which is quickly becoming renowned for its fresh, local and seasonal British food and for serving a wide array of local ales and beers. Customers have been raving about the theatre of watching the pub’s chefs in an open plan kitchen, lead by talented head chef Mark Evans, cooking up culinary delights such as home smoked duck salad with blueberries, orange and hazelnut dressing and exquisitely cooked steaks of aged beef from local farms. For those with a sweet tooth, the Amaretto panna cotta with caramelised sultana sauce and homemade Bakewell Tart with almond and raspberry ice cream are quickly becoming firm favourites. Provenance and sustainability of food is increasingly important to customers, so The Cock Inn takes every measure to ensure suppliers originate from the south east of England wherever possible and to support small British producers. A fully stocked ‘feature’ bar at the front

of the pub serves one of the area’s best selection of craft beers and local ales. The bar also has a wide range of wines, Champagnes by the glass or bottle – look out for special offers every Thursday referred to as ‘Champagne Thursday’ – and premium spirits, including an interesting range of quality gins. The area has a welcoming open fire and is ideal for a leisurely drink both pre and post dining. The décor of the pub takes inspiration from its surroundings, where banquette seating and copper topped tables fuse effortlessly with countryside pursuit touches such as equine inspired feature walls. The Cock Inn, with its cosy open fires and fantastic terrace area, is casual enough to be comfortable and stylish enough to feel special, offering a year round, warm and relaxing atmosphere. Danni Childs, general manager of The Cock Inn enthused: “We are delighted to be open and look forward to welcoming our customers old and new.” The original part of The Cock Inn was built around 1700–1750 and was originally a home for stonemasons who built the beautiful church in Headley. The Cock Inn is the sixth pub opened by Surrey-based independently owned Red Mist Leisure, run by Mark Robson and Mark Williams. >

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essence food review

A recipe from the The Cock Inn

About Mark Evans,

Severn and Wye salmon, prawn and Brioche stack Serves four

head chef, The Cock Inn, Headley Village Ingredients 12 slices of fresh Brioche bread 80g cold water prawns Four large Tiger prawns 80g Severn and Wye smoked salmon One bunch of Secretts’ watercress One sweet English plum tomato Two tablespoons freshly picked chives Half red onion Two tablespoons capers Mark spent the initial years of his career in Australasia, with chef de partie roles at coastal restaurants on the North Island of New Zealand, before moving to Sydney where he was classically trained and gained qualification from Le Cordon Bleu. Mark took on his first sous chef role at Brett’s Wharf in Brisbane before relocating back to the UK where he has earned a total of five rosettes at different establishments since. Mark joined Red Mist Leisure in the summer of 2011 as head chef at The Stag on the River in Eashing. He lives in Surrey.

Mark’s cooking style Mark is a genuine ‘foodie’ who exudes creativity and a real passion for cooking. It is almost impossible to walk through his kitchen without being asked to sample a new sauce or inspect a different ingredient destined for the specials’ board that day. Mark attributes much of his current ‘fun and fresh’ cooking style to his early experiences as a chef abroad and, even today, his love for seafood in particular often has antipodean influences when transferred on to the plate. His specials’ board is always full of innovative and interesting dishes and he is a champion of ‘sharing plates’ at weekends, which often include suckling pig, rack of lamb or Chateaubriand.

Mark’s favourite celebrity chefs Mark references Albert Roux and Giorgio

Locatelli as sources of inspiration throughout his career, and whilst the Barcelona Fish Market wins as his favourite overseas food emporium to spend an afternoon wandering round selecting ingredients for dinner, closer to home he would happily while away the hours at the pop up stalls and restaurants at Camden Market.

Mark’s signature dish Lobster and clam spaghetti with samphire and a tomato and lemongrass bisque is Mark’s signature dish. As he explains: “I love the fresh, vibrant flavours in this dish and enjoy creating exciting textures and combinations with seafood and pasta. It’s really quite exceptional.” When writing The Cock Inn’s menu, Mark focused on seasonal British pub food. “We wanted the menu to be built around classic British dishes and ingredients, and to reflect the building’s reputation as a ‘friendly and proper pub, that’s steeped in history’. When coming up with a dish, I choose one or two seasonal flavours that marry well with the main ingredient. It is also essential to ensure there is a balance of texture on the plate and to make the dish interesting whilst avoiding the danger of being gimmicky. I’ll often look for inspiration in other cookbooks, or think back to dishes I’ve enjoyed myself, taking different elements that I know work well together.” l

For the dressing Two tablespoons mayonnaise One tablespoon chervil Zest and juice of half lemon

Method l Finely dice the tomato and red onion and gently mix with chopped chives and capers to create a chunky salsa. l To create the dressing, combine the mayonnaise with the chopped chervil and the lemon zest and juice. l To serve, cut the Brioche using a round plain cutter approximately five centimetres in diameter. l Lay a thin layer of Secretts’ watercress onto the Brioche, followed by salsa, a slice of Severn and Wye smoked salmon and then the dressing. l Repeat these layers twice more and top with a peeled Tiger prawn, a little smoked salmon and a sprinkling of chives. l Garnish the plate with a drizzle of dressing and any leftover salsa. Serve immediately.

essence info The Cock Inn Church Lane, Headley, Surrey KT18 6LE Telephone 01372 377258 Website www.cockinnheadley.co.uk

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essence baking

Rich chocolate and

raspberry brownies F

or a truly blissful brownie experience, this is Jen’s Cupcakery new go-to recipe and already a customer favourite. Rich dark chocolate blended with tart raspberries, these brownies are quick to make, but should be savoured slowly, preferably with a good cup of coffee!

Ingredients: 185g unsalted butter 185g good dark chocolate 85g plain flour 40g cocoa powder Three large eggs 275g golden caster sugar A punnet of raspberries (and extra for decoration)

By Jen’s Cupcakery

Tip: It’s preferable to take the brownies out of the oven a little too early than too late as they continue to cook in the tin whilst cooling. Brownies are better a bit gooey than too dry!

Method:

• Preheat the oven to around 180°C (160° fan). • Grease and line a shallow 20cm square tin with greaseproof paper.

• Cut the butter into cubes, break the dark chocolate into pieces • • • • • • •

and place in a glass bowl over some hot water, stirring occasionally as they melt. When melted, take off the heat to cool. Mix the eggs and golden caster sugar in a mixer (or use a hand mix) and beat for a good five to eight minutes. The mixture needs to double in size and appear creamy and pale. Pour the cooled chocolate into the egg/sugar mix and blend lightly with a spatula. Measure out the flour and cocoa and sift into the mixture. Using a figure of eight motion, blend in (don’t mix too much or the brownies will be heavy). The mixture should look fudgy and a bit dusty. Gently fold in most of the raspberries, keeping a few back. Pour the mixture into the prepared tin and then dot the rest of the raspberries into the top. Bake for around 25 minutes. If the brownies still wobble in the middle when removed from the oven, they are not quite done. Put them back for another five minutes, then check again. There should be a shiny crust – often with some cracks! Remove from the oven and leave to cool in the tin on a wire rack. Cut into squares and then serve with more fresh raspberries, and for extra decadence a spoonful of extra thick double or clotted cream! Yum…

essence info Website: www.jenscupcakery.com Telephone: 07751 553106 Facebook: www.facebook.com/jenscupcakery Twitter: @jenscupcakery Blog: ilovejenscupcakery.wordpress.com

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ELITE INTERIORS LONDON www.eliteinteriorslondon.com 01372 450335 020 7183 3731

#Health_1pp_Layout 1 02/04/2015 16:27 Page 1

essence health

Gastropod glow for spring skin Aesthetician Naomi Diamond of The Epsom Skin Clinic offers essence readers a few tips and techniques to achieve a radiant glow to match the uplifting weather.

vital part of any beauty routine should be cleansing: clearing away the makeup, dirt and debris, morning and evening, helping to minimise congestion and keep skin bright. A facial cleansing brush for extra exfoliation is best used twice a week. My favourite cleansing products are: • Jan Marini C-ESTA facial cleanser – this Vitamin C cleanser helps to protect the skin whilst brightening and it smells gorgeous. • Jan Marini Bioglycolic facial cleanser – this resurfacing cleanser deep cleans follicles and contains sorbitol, a natural berry extract to leave skin feeling soft and smooth. Don’t forget your body! Jan Marini also has a Bioglycolic body scrub. It uses small beads and glycolic acid to exfoliate and soften. This can really help to smooth dry skin found on the tops of arms and backs of the thighs (also known as keratosis pilaris) by eliminating the build up of the dry dead layer. As the weather warms, remember to change to a lighter moisturiser. Unless you have dry skin, carefully select a hydrator that prevents water loss; Obagi Hydrate is a

lightweight moisturiser that doesn’t compact the top layer of skin, allowing it to breathe. Sun protection is important all year round. Use a minimum SPF 30 in winter and SPF 50 in summer. This will prevent UVA and UVB rays from causing irreparable damage to cell structure and promote anti-aging. A specific face SPF is unlike those obtained over the counter. They should be moisturising, light and as handy to use as a daily moisturiser. Makeup tip: When applying foundation, allow the SPF to ‘skin in’ five minutes in advance. To boost a warming glow, sweep excess bronzer to the eyelids and highlight underneath eyebrows to catch the light. Enerpeels have a wide range of skin peels to suit different conditions. Enerpeel technology means active ingredients are not released until they are absorbed thereby increasing effectiveness. The Enerpeel Mandelic Acid Peel is brilliant for all skin types: it’s slowly absorbed and reduces redness, promoting regeneration without causing erythema. It helps with inflammation and has been known to inhibit pigment. We all know it’s good to eat foods that contain antioxidants, vitamins and good fats to promote skin health. Blueberries, strawberries, nuts, honey and avocados are

all great for skin and hair: why not make up some homemade masks? With the wedding season just around the corner, we want to look our best. An easy thirty day regime of Endocare ampoules has been proven to improve skin luminosity, firm and lessen wrinkle depth. As we have seen from health food stores, snail secretion is everywhere. This thirty day supply contains the highest level of secretion and demonstrates the product’s incredible rejuvenating benefits. Some of our clients have received comments on how great their skin looks after just one week. Love the snail! Love your skin! Book a free skin consultation with one of our clinic experts to see how Epsom Skincare can enhance your natural beauty.

•

essence info Epsom Skincare Clinics Website: www.epsomskinclinics.com Telephone: 01372 737280 (Epsom) or 020 8399 5996 (Surbiton)

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essence legal

Property management

and boundary disputes Solicitor Jennifer Dodds is part of the residential development team at Mundays. Here she answers questions regarding two important aspects of property ownership. I live on a road which is not maintained by the local authority and which is only used by local residents whose properties abut the road and is used to access our property and a number of other properties in the area. The road is in quite poor condition and maintenance and repairs of damage is paid for on an informal basis by the local residents. Some of the residents would like to formalise the maintenance of the road by contributing money on an annual basis so that when there are any major works to be done, there is already a pot of money at our disposal. How do we go about setting this up and does it have to be in any specific form? It is not unusual to find private roads and estates which are managed and maintained by management companies and/or residents associations. The first step will be to establish who, if anyone owns the road. You should ask your solicitor to obtain and review title documents to your property and those along the road in question. There are three possible scenarios here. The first is that each property abutting the road owns part of the road. If so, the extent of ownership should be recorded on title register to each property. The second

42 www.essence-magazine.co.uk

scenario is that ownership of the road is not recorded at the Land Registry and ownership is not known. The third possibility is that the land is registered at the Land Registry. You will need to check that your property has the necessary service and access rights over the road and this is something your solicitor will have checked when you purchased the property. You will then need to contact the individual or company that owns the road to ask them to deal with the maintenance, or to discuss the possibility of acquiring ownership of the roadway. The management company/residentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s association you choose to establish can be formed so that each resident is a shareholder of the company. The residentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s membership/share would be granted to each resident on the basis that they make an annual payment to the management company, in return for a vote in how the monetary contributions are spent and how the area is maintained. The contributions could be used to repair the road, bring the road up to standard or fund any major resurfacing works which may be done for example, after bad weather. In addition, the money could be used to maintain the amenities of the area including grass verges, erecting a

private gate and paying for basic maintenance works such as tree cutting and pruning. You may also want to ask each of the members of the company to follow a set of guidelines for use of the road such as restricting heavy duty and construction traffic to specific times of the day and asking that vehicles are not parked on the road overnight, or in a way that obstructs other users. Caution is urged here as it may be that not all local residents will be keen to formalise the use and maintenance of the roads. You may face objections from residents to being tied to specific guidelines for use and access, particularly where a resident has lived in the area for a long period of time. You should also bear in mind that the directorship and maintenance of the accounts of the management company/residents association will need to be carried out by local residents on a voluntary basis. This will involve residents giving up their personal time which may not always be practical. Alternatively, you can employ a professional management company to do this on your behalf. A professional management company will charge an annual fee for their services which you may not want to pay.

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My property shares a boundary with the adjoining land. There is a fence that has recently been erected along the length of the garden between my property and the neighbour’s. I think the fence has been placed in the wrong position and is actually on part of the land in my ownership meaning that my neighbour’s land has been extended, albeit by a small amount. What happens if I want to dispute the position of this fence? How should I approach my neighbour and how can I get this resolved quickly and without long delays? Boundary disputes can escalate quickly from a fence or wall being placed in what one of the parties believes to be an incorrect position, to a full blown dispute with solicitors and the threat of court action. Disputes of this nature can be time consuming, costly and take many years to resolve. Not to mention the obvious impact on relations in your neighbourhood. Your first step should be to ask your solicitor to obtain a copy of the title register and plan to your property. However, it is unlikely that the title plan will show the exact boundary location as Land Registry plans very rarely accurately plot the location

of a boundary or describe the maintenance responsibilities of specific boundaries. It could be the case that there has been a previous change in the boundary location and this has not been correctly recorded on the title documents. If there is, or you believe there may be a boundary dispute, you should engage the services of a chartered surveyor with experience in boundary disputes. The chartered surveyor’s role will be to compile evidence to establish the location of the boundary which can include historic title deeds, ordinance survey maps and aerial photographs. There are also legal presumptions and practices the surveyor will take into consideration. For example, there is a presumption that with the common form of featheredged fencing, the visibility of the horizontal rails ‘should’ denote who constructed and maintains the fence. Evidence such as this will enable you and the neighbour to resolve the issue amicably and without recourse to legal action. If legal action becomes unavoidable, the evidence gained by the chartered surveyor will be invaluable. It is important to begin a dialogue with your neighbour and be patient and pragmatic in your approach. In addition, any settlement reached with your

neighbour should be recorded in writing preferably in a boundary agreement and registered at the Land registry so there is a record on both properties titles as to the terms of the agreement.

•

essence info Jennifer Dodds is a solicitor in the Property department at Mundays specialising in residential development and can be contacted on 01932 590500 or at jennifer.dodds@mundays.co.uk. This article is for information only, it does not intend to provide legal advice. Mundays LLP accepts no responsibility for loss which may occur from reliance on information contained in this article. For more information on property issues or to discover more about the personally tailored service Mundays can offer, please contact a member of the Mundays’ Property department. Mundays LLP Cedar House, 78 Portsmouth Road, Cobham KT11 1AN Telephone: 01932 590500 More information about a range of Property services can be found at www.mundays.co.uk

www.essence-magazine.co.uk 43

essence finance

Are your pension savings set free? The new tax year heralded a brave new world for pensions as a new regime affecting how pension benefits are paid took effect. Simon Lewis explains that the benefits of the new regime are substantial and warns it is dangerous to assume an automatic entitlement because many pension arrangements will not make them available.

here has already been a great deal of media coverage regarding the liberalisation of pension rules, which took effect on 6 April. However, there is a common misconception that anyone (of pension age) can now readily access some, or all, of their pension fund. In reality, there is no obligation for pension schemes to facilitate these new freedoms and the likelihood is that many schemes will choose not to because of the cost involved in updating their systems. For those with a pension arrangement, whether of pension age (55 years) or not, it is important to establish whether your scheme will facilitate the new freedoms. Where this is not the case, it should be considered whether attaining such freedoms would justify consideration of an alternative pension arrangement. One of the criticisms levied at the new rules is that some might be tempted to draw on their pension fund in a reckless manner, leaving insufficient funds behind to finance retirement. However, for most of our clients, who have relatively large pension funds that are used to provide a sustainable cash flow throughout retirement, the ability to withdraw funds at a faster rate does not make a great deal of difference as to do so could increase tax deductions and decrease the longevity of the pension fund.

For pension fund holders who have commenced, or are about to commence, receiving benefits one of the most important considerations is the new death benefit regime. This enables a flexible legacy to be left to family members and I touched on this issue in my October 2014 article, ‘Death Benefits’.

“there is no obligation for pension schemes to facilitate these new freedoms” To recap, the new rules allow a pension fund to pass to future generations, free of Inheritance Tax, on the death of the pension fund holder, even after the age of 75. Funds can later be drawn by nominated beneficiaries and taxed only at their marginal rate of income tax (or not at all in the case of a non-taxpayer). However, this is not an automatic entitlement because schemes that have not adopted the new rules might offer only a cash lump sum or an annuity. It is therefore crucial to confirm whether your scheme has

adopted the new regime and even if it has, it will probably be necessary to submit a new death benefit nomination form to replace the outdated one. Previously, managing the decumulation phase of a pension fund had become a balancing act between eroding the fund to avoid a punitive tax charge on death and preserving enough of the fund to sustain pension payments during life. However, depending upon the extent and liquidity of non-pension assets, there is now a very real incentive to preserve pension funds. In fact, we have already advised many clients to stop drawing on their pension funds and instead draw from other investments, specifically those that would otherwise be subject to Inheritance Tax on death. Most often, this will require a radical change in investment strategy for the pension fund, to reflect both the revised objective and extended time horizon. We have also talked to some clients about changing their nomination forms so that, for example, pension funds would pass to minor grandchildren and be used to provide a tax-free income to pay school and university fees. For others, the objective is to provide a tax efficient lump sum split between young adult beneficiaries and used to assist property purchase.

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“new rules allow a pension fund to pass to future generations, free of Inheritance Tax, on the death of the pension fund holder” The new pension rules do not only benefit those who have already reached pension age. One of the main changes is the removal of the (in practice) requirement for those with smaller pension pots to purchase an annuity at retirement. Annuities do not offer good value at a time when interest rates are so low so this is a welcome change for many. However, the default investment strategy of many pension funds pursues a ‘lifestyle’ approach. This is where the amount invested in the more volatile (and likely higher

growth) assets is reduced progressively in the run up to the chosen retirement age, in anticipation of annuity purchase. For many, this is no longer a requirement so it makes sense to review this. To conclude, there is a lot to think about for many pension fund holders. There are some excellent planning opportunities but also some significant pitfalls so it makes sense to obtain expert advice, something that we are certainly equipped to provide. l

essence info Simon Lewis is writing on behalf of Partridge Muir & Warren Ltd (PMW), Chartered Financial Planners, based in Esher. The Company has specialised in providing wealth management solutions to private clients for 46 years. Simon is an independent financial adviser, chartered financial planner and chartered fellow of the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment. The opinions outlined in this article are those of the writer and should not be construed as individual advice. To find out more about financial advice and investment options please contact Simon at Partridge Muir & Warren Ltd. Partridge Muir & Warren Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Telephone: 01372 471 550 Email: simon.lewis@pmw.co.uk Website: www.pmw.co.uk

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essence education

Science matters “We firmly believe that it is vital to stimulate a passion for science in children during their formative years”

46 www.essence-magazine.co.uk

Michael Connolly, headmaster of Cranmore School, explores the importance of science in the curriculum.

any adults will recall that there was a time when science had no place in the primary school curriculum. It was perceived as being a difficult subject that required lots of expensive equipment and could only be taught by specialist staff. Thankfully, it has long been recognised that science is a core subject and sits near numeracy and literacy in terms of importance. Why has there been a change of heart? Well, central government has identified there is a direct correlation between economic growth and having a scientifically literate workforce. At one time, Britain had an unrivalled reputation as a world class leader in engineering. It is surely no coincidence that the engineer on the starship Enterprise was ‘Scotty’? Most diehard fans – Trekkies – are aware that the actor who played the part was, in fact, Canadian, but he chose to use a Scottish accent because Scotland produced the best engineers! So, how did science and engineering become squeezed out of the curriculum to make way for new subjects such as media studies? As heavy industry gradually declined in the UK we were becoming a service economy, particularly in financial services. In

turn, this created opportunities in PR and marketing which appeared to offer a more exciting, buzzy career path to students. It must also be stated that some of the new A-level courses were perceived to be much easier than the traditional sciences and, not surprisingly, they were more attractive. Couple that with a chronic shortage of science teachers and one can see how we lost our way for some time. What is the latest picture? Thankfully, science is now taught in all schools to even the youngest children. It is no longer the preserve of specialists as the high quality training which has been available in recent years has ensured most teachers are comfortable with it within the primary range. A major paradigm shift has been the drive to move science away from teaching facts and laws to genuine discovery learning. Children simply love finding things out and science is an ideal vehicle for them to explore all aspects of the natural world. In addition, a few high profile movies and television programmes have helped to boost science in the public domain. One of the most successful films this year has been The Theory of Everything, based upon the life of Stephen Hawking. Also, it sometimes feels that Brian Cox, the celebrity

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physicist, is on our television screens most nights of the week. If nothing else, the popularity of such programmes confirms to young children and students that science really matters. Every so often an opportunity comes along which really pushes science to the centre stage. The recent eclipse is a perfect example and at Cranmore School, like many others, we invested in the special filter spectacles so that our pupils could enjoy this remarkable event safely. The pupils at Cranmore are more fortunate than most. We have several specialist science staff fully supported by a technician who holds a PhD. We also have fully equipped, modern labs and, unusually, our pupils are already studying physics, chemistry and biology as separate subjects by the age of ten. Thereafter, they can extend their knowledge to other sub-disciplines such as cosmology and geology.

We firmly believe that it is vital to stimulate a passion for science in children during their formative years. In this way one has a more realistic chance of boosting the number of pupils who will go on to study it at A-level and beyond. Of course, science belongs to the special group of subjects which now go under the acronym of STEM – science, technology, engineering and maths. The National STEM Centre, based in York, is a major player in promoting the study and value of these key disciplines: STEM subjects are integral to the UK’s success: the UK is the world’s sixth largest manufacturer, engineering turnover is around £800 billion per year, and whilst the UK makes up only 1% of the world’s population, we produce 10% of the world’s top scientific research. Looking ahead, it is clear that a commitment to science from central

government will be important to attract high quality graduates to the teaching profession. Other countries are trying to catch us up but, in my view, keeping science’s rightful place in primary, secondary and higher education will give the UK a fighting chance of maintaining its role within the top 10% of scientific research.

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essence info Cranmore School Cranmore School educates girls from two and a half to seven years and boys from two and a half to thirteen years. It is committed to providing a balanced curriculum which can develop each child’s potential. Telephone: 01483 280340 Website: www.cranmoreprep.co.uk

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essence leisure breaks

W E E K E N D

I N

Z端rich For those yearning to escape the constant demands of life in the fast lane, consider a weekend break in Z端rich, the largest city in Switzerland, located on the northern shores of the tranquil Lake Z端rich. Rebecca Underwood explores.

River cruise on the River Limmat with view towards the Town Hall and Grossmuenster. Image credit: Switzerland Tourism, swiss-image.ch/Christof Schuerpf

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View over the River Limmat on to the guild house 'Zur Meise', the spider of Fraumuenster church and the City Hall. Image credit: Switzerland Tourism, swiss-image.ch/Stephan Engler

ürich is widely regarded as the best city in the world for its quality of life (and was voted so from 2006-2008) and as a centre of finance and banking, it remains the wealthiest city in Europe. The people of Zürich are clearly dedicated to protecting their environment as the public transport system is used by the vast majority of local citizens. Trains, trams, electric and diesel buses, river and lake boats and a cable car are the preferred modes of transport and this is reflected in the quality of the city air. Zürich offers visitors the opportunity to experience an insight into a thriving and vibrant city not dominated by the car. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade of Lake Zürich, festooned with colourful flowers creating a heavenly scent hanging in the air. Head for the meandering cobbled stone streets of Aldstadt (the old town) and browse the eclectic art galleries, charming antique shops and book stores. Pause awhile and stop off for a coffee and a Swiss pastry or two. No doubt visitors will be enchanted by the view of the mighty snow capped Alps in the distance. For an exceptional shopping experience wander along Bahnhofstrasse, where the finest boutiques and stores feature international fashion labels, exquisite jewellery and, of course, wrist watches galore. Even the most resistant shopper is sure to part with a substantial sum of Euros once they succumb to the sight of the glittering treasures displayed in the shop windows.

To examine another impressive collection of timepieces, visit the Clock and Watch Museum within the Beyer Chronometrie shop, also on Bahnhofstrasse. This private collection includes exhibits dating from 1400BC to the present day and features fascinating oil and water clocks, sundials, hourglasses, table and grandfather clocks and delicate pocket and wristwatches. For those with a sweet tooth, the nearby Confiserie Sprüngli is Swiss chocolate heaven. Mountains of tempting homemade pralines and truffles beckon. The Sprüngli company dates back to 1836 and is certainly a master in its field. Sample the delicious VIP selection, made with butter ganache with a hint of kirsch or rum, or try the chocolate apricot or Tahitian vanilla. For a brisk walk after that calorific overload, head for Platzspitz Park, the location of the Swiss National Museum, where an intriguing glimpse into Swiss culture and history is on

offer. The Museum was built in 1898 by the talented Gustav Gull and is a truly striking building reflecting the style of a French Renaissance city chateau with beautiful towers and courtyards. The main exhibition effortlessly guides the visitor from prehistoric to ancient times, through to the Middle Ages and on to the present day. There are several fascinating artefacts including colourful costumes, old pieces of furniture, stained glass and a selection of weapons. And the mesmerising collection of Gothic art is not to be missed. For art lovers, Zürich is a treasure trove with more than 100 galleries and over 50 museums, and 14 of those are dedicated solely to art. View Zürich’s largest collection of modern art at the Kunsthaus Museum, which houses the widest selection of Munch masterpieces outside Norway. Other works include masterpieces by Chagall, Picasso, Braque, Giacometti and Monet, several >

Background image: View on to the Limmat River and the historic centre. Image credit: Switzerland Tourism, swiss-image.ch/Christof Sonderegger www.essence-magazine.co.uk 49

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essence leisure breaks

Hotel Baur au Lac (top) and above the Pavillon restaurant within the hotel

medieval sculptures and a selection of contemporary pieces by Swiss artists, including Ferdinand Hodler. Be sure to visit the Fraumunster Church, which dates back to the thirteenth century, and where five magnificent stained glass windows designed by Marc Chagall can be viewed. Visit St Peter’s Church, another treasured landmark, located next to the Lindenhof hill, with its towering steeple featuring the largest clock face in Europe. For a truly relaxing afternoon take a 90 minute boat cruise on the calm waters of Lake Zurich. The Lake Zurich Navigation Company at Burkliplatz harbour is a short walk from the old town and it is surely one of the most popular attractions in the city. Feeling a trifle weary after all that intent exploration? Then make for the luxurious Baur au Lac Hotel. The property is set within its own private park overlooking the lake and the Alps, and is within walking distance of the Bahnhofstrasse. Accommodation is spacious, elegant, comfortable and inviting. Treat yourself to a 70sqm deluxe suite with an unforgettable lake view. The spacious bathroom is the ideal spot to sink into a bathtub of bubbles and the ultra comfortable beds with plump pillows and crisp white linens ensure a deep and rejuvenating slumber. For those feeling a little peckish, consider the hotel’s Michelin-starred Pavillon

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Old Zurich. Image credit: Switzerland Tourism, swiss-image.ch/Rubiano Soto

River Limmat and the Muenster Bridge. Image credit: Switzerland Tourism, swiss-image.ch/Christof Schuerpf

restaurant. The emphasis is on contemporary fine dining, service is first class and the menu is inspired. Sample the Gyoza tortellini filled with butternut squash and sweet and sour diced pumpkin, followed by the most delicious steamed sole roulade, garnished with crayfish, Nantua sauce, Swedish turnip and pilaf rice. And the Grand Marnier soufflé is outstanding. To dine further afield, hop on to tram number 4 and head for the LaSalle restaurant

and bar on Schiffbaustrasse. This stylish restaurant resembles a glass cube and is housed within the Schiffbau building, which dates back to 1825 when it was a cotton mill and later became a production plant. Steel beams and old rivets remain in place and a trolley crane hangs down from the ceiling. The menu features a wide variety of delicious dishes, including a first class squid and papaya salad with chilli and coriander, and a mouth watering braised beef in red wine sauce. For jazz lovers, Moods, also on Schiffbaustrasse, is undoubtedly one of the best ‘live’ jazz clubs in Europe and attracts some of the biggest names in the industry. Located next to LaSalle restaurant, this is the place for a toe tapping jazz experience. For a late evening tipple or two, visit Clouds on the thirty fifth floor of the Prime Tower, the tallest building in Switzerland, located on Maagplatz. This contemporary and sophisticated bar, which is also a restaurant, is set on two floors and features floor to ceiling windows, which of course ensure that the visitor is overwhelmed by the stunning views over the city. If a visit this spring is off the agenda, consider visiting Zürich in June or July when the Zurich Festival takes place. A wide selection of operas, concerts, drama, dance and open air theatre performances take place and the city is even more vibrant and colourful in the Swiss sunshine.

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Ben Ealovega

essence music

Hear the

colours

Surrey Hills International Music Festival Hear the Colours: Programme Shades of Bohemia: 8.00pm on Thursday 30 April Denbies Wine Estate, Dorking Han Xiaoming – horn Michael Collins – clarinet Alexander Sitkovetsky – violin Leonard Elschenbroich – cello Wu Qian – piano Natalie Klouda – violin

Wu Qian

Hoffmeister – horn quintet Brahms – clarinet quintet Dohnanyi – sextet

Colours of Harmony: 7.30pm on Friday 1 May Holy Trinity Church, Guildford

Michael Collins

The Surrey Hills International Music Festival brings ‘Hear the Colours’ to venues across the Surrey Hills from 30 April to 2 May 2015. An exciting programme of exceptional music performed by world class artists is on offer.

Mendelssohn – Ave Maria Bach – Three Preludes & a Fugue from The Well-Tempered Clavier Dvorak – Silent Woods arr. Barralet – Three World Folksongs

A Palette of Masters: 7.30pm on Saturday 2 May Mairlot Hall, St Teresa’s, Effingham

u Qian is artistic director for the Surrey Hills International Music Festival and is proud of the way in which it has developed over the years. Wu enthuses: “The Festival has become one of the cultural highlights in the region and as a result can attract some of the world’s most acclaimed artists and upcoming stars.” And this year is no exception. Wu explains she is excited about this year and says: “We’re especially pleased to welcome newcomers, the cello octet Cellophony plus The London Mozart Players under the baton of eminent guest conductor Dimitry Sitkovetsky, in what promises to be a spectacular finale.” The Festival is a registered charity and is supported by Investec. It is also able to deliver free music workshops to local state schools and for this receives grant support from Guildford Borough Council. David Richardson, divisional director for Investec Wealth & Investment elaborates on a happy collaboration with the Festival.

Cellophony Schubert – Three Songs from Schwanengesang Gabrielli – Sancta et Immaculata Barber – Adagio Birchall – Mirrors

London Mozart Players

“We are delighted to be supporting the Festival for the third consecutive year. The Festival team always manage to pull together an incredible programme of talent and this year looks to be no exception.” l

The London Mozart Players Guest conductor Dimitry Sitkovetsky Soloists: Dimitry Sitkovetsky – violin Natalie Clein – cello Leticia Moreno – violin Tchaikovsky – Suite No.4 Mozartiana Bruch – Kol Nidrei Ravel – Tzigane Pärt – Fratres Mozart – Symphony 33 B flat Leticia Moreno

essence info Hear the Colours Festival tickets are priced £26-£29 (concessions apply) and are available from www.shimf.co.uk or the Tourist Information Centre, 155 High Street, Guildford. Telephone: 01483 444334.

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essence competition

Win a pair of tickets to

Miss Saigon

and a meal at Hix Soho! Cameron Mackintosh’s acclaimed new production of Miss Saigon has made its highly anticipated return to the West End and is breaking box office records. Since Miss Saigon’s sensational record-breaking run at London’s Theatre Royal Drury Lane 25 years ago, it has played in 300 cities in 15 different languages, winning awards around the world. This epic musical love story tells the tragic tale of young bar girl Kim, orphaned by war, who falls in love with an American GI called Chris – but their lives are torn apart by the fall of Saigon. As well as tickets to the show, the winner and their lucky plus one will dine at Hix Soho. The restaurant boasts Mark Hix’s signature weekly-changing menu of seasonal British food, and an eclectic collection of artworks from celebrated British artists. Downstairs is Mark’s Bar with its unique decorative style and a deliciously eccentric cocktail list. To win, just answer the following question and visit the essence website: www.essence-magazine.co.uk for further details on how to enter. What is the name of the young bar girl in Miss Saigon? a) Kylie b) Katie c) Kim essence info: Closing date 30 April 2015 Miss Saigon Currently booking until 19 December 2015. Prince Edward Theatre, Old Compton Street, London W1D 4HS Box Office: 0844 482 5155 Website: www.miss-saigon.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/MissSaigonOfficial Twitter: www.twitter.com/misssaigonuk

Terms and conditions apply: • Prize is valid Monday to Thursday until 18 June 2015. • Subject to availability. • Prize comprises a pair of £67.50 tickets and a two course meal for two at Hix Soho. • Prize is as stated and cannot be transferred or exchanged. No cash alternative will be offered.

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essence events

spotlight on... My First Ballet: Swan Lake New Victoria Theatre, Woking Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 April English National Ballet, in collaboration with English National Ballet School, bring the enchanting My First Ballet series to Woking with their fourth classical ballet to be created especially for children: My First Ballet: Swan Lake. Productions are specifically created to make classical ballet accessible and enjoyable to children from the age of three upwards. A narrator helps young audiences to follow the storyline and with Tchaikovsky’s beautiful music set to a mystical tale of good and evil, this is a perfect production for the whole family and a superb introduction to the world of ballet.

Tickets: 0844 871 7645 or ambassadortickets.com/woking

Richmond Theatre Richmond Tuesday 7 to Saturday 11 April Mermaid Hans Christian Andersen’s tale in a contemporary setting. Wednesday 15 to Saturday 18 April The Pirates of Penzance Gilbert and Sullivan’s classic opera. Tuesday 21 to Wednesday 22 April BalletBoyz All male dance company perform. Thursday 23 April Pasha Kovalev: Life through dance Ballroom and latin dance. Monday 27 April to Saturday 2 May Twelve Angry Men Tom Conti stars in this awardwinning play. Tickets: 0844 871 7651 or ambassadortickets.com/richmond

New Victoria Theatre Woking Tuesday 7 to Saturday 11 April The King’s Speech Starring Jason Donovan. Thursday 16 April Ballet Black A triple bill from this company of black and Asian classically trained dancers.

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Tuesday 21 April Yamato Drummers of Japan Yamato drummers use their whole bodies to control rhythms. Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 April My First Ballet: Swan Lake See above Spotlight. Tuesday 28 April to Saturday 2 May Jeeves & Wooster in Perfect Nonsense P.G. Wodehouse’s iconic double act. Tickets: 0844 871 7645 or ambassadortickets.com/woking

Rose Theatre Kingston-upon-Thames Wednesday 8 to Saturday 11 April The Amazing Bubble Man Bubble art, magic, science and lots of fun. Friday 10 to Saturday 11 April Fantastical Story Factory Improvised musical adventure for children from The Showstoppers. Tuesday 14 to Saturday 25 April The Absence of War David Hare’s pre-election drama starring Reece Dinsdale. Tuesday 28 April to Saturday 2 May The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas The heart-wrenching tale of unlikely friendship based on John Boyne’s best-selling novel. Information: 020 8174 0090 or rosetheatrekingston.org

Claire Barrett as Odette. Photography by Ash

theatre

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essence events Epsom Playhouse

Farnham Maltings

Epsom

Farnham

Thursday 16 April Stewart Francis Pun Gent Tour Great stand-up. Tuesday 28 April Katherine Ryan: Glam Role Model Popular comedienne on her second UK tour. Thursday 7 May The Billy Joel Songbook performed by Elio Pace and his band Celebrating many Joel favourites including Uptown Girl, Piano Man and many more.

Saturday 11 April Danny The Champion of the World A treat for Easter: join London Contemporary Theatre as they tell Roald Dahl’s story of the journey of young boy Danny and his father. Thursday 30 April A Strange Wild Song A play for ages eight and above set in northern France during WWII.

Tickets: 01372 742555/742227 or

G Live

epsomplayhouse.co.uk

Guildford

Camberley Theatre Camberley Sunday 12 April Aladdin A re-telling of this classic tale from Ballet Theatre UK. Thursday 16 April An Evening with Julian Lloyd Webber The renowned cellist with an evening of stories and music.

Information: 01252 745444 or farnhammaltings.com

Thursday 16 April Henning Wehn: Eins, Zwei, DIY 2015 Comedic wonderment at the foibles of British society. Saturday 18 April Tim Vine 2015 The punslinger returns. Information: 0844 7701797 or glive.co.uk

Guildford Fringe

Tickets: 01276 707600 or

The Star Inn, Quarry St, Guildford

camberleytheatre.biz

Saturday 18 April Guildford Gag House A professional monthly comedy club based in one of the oldest venues in Guildford town centre.

Dorking Halls Dorking Friday 17 April Vienna Festival Ballet 35th Anniversary Gala Scenes from Tchaikovsky’s most beloved ballets, including Swan Lake. Wednesday 22 April Pasha Kovalev: Life through dance Strictly dancer performs. Tickets: 01306 881717 or dorkinghalls.co.uk

The Electric Theatre Guildford

The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas, Rose Theatre, Kingston

Tickets: 0844 8700 887 or guildfordfringe.com

Guildford Shakespeare Company Various venues

Yamato Drummers of Japan, New Victoria Theatre, Woking

Saturday 18 to Sunday 26 April Will’s Birthday Bash 2015 A week of special events celebrating the Bard’s birthday including staged readings, lectures and sonnet walks. See website for details.

Wednesday 22 to Saturday 25 April The Pranksters Theatre Company: Blackadder II All the colourful characters are here: Baldrick, Melchett, Queenie and of course Edmund Blackadder. Monday 27 to Wednesday 29 April Has Guildford Got Talent 2015? Auditions are now open!

Information: 01483 304384 or

Information: 01483 444789 or

Information: 01483 440000 or

electrictheatre.co.uk

yvonne-arnaud.co.uk

guildford-shakespeare-company.co.uk

Yvonne Arnaud Theatre Guildford Wednesday 22 to Saturday 25 April The World Goes ‘Round Featuring the songbook of Kander and Ebb.

56 www.essence-magazine.co.uk Han Xiaoming, Surrey Hills International Music Festival

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spotlight on... National Open Gardens Day Various locations

Friday 17 April National Gardening Week runs this year from Monday 13 to Sunday 19 April and for the first time gardens all over Britain that normally have an entry charge or are closed to the public will open their doors for free on Friday 17 April. National Open Gardens Day aims to raise awareness of the cultural value of the UK’s gardens and encourage newcomers to experience them. The four RHS Gardens, including RHS Wisley, are leading the campaign with many other gardens taking part, including Moleshill House in Cobham, Borde Hill Garden in Haywards Heath, The Roof Gardens in Kensington and West Dean Gardens in West Sussex. Both the Week and Open Gardens Day are supported by a collaboration with upcoming gardening-themed period drama, A Little Chaos, directed by Alan Rickman and starring Kate Winslet as a seventeenth century landscape gardener. The film opens in UK cinemas on 17 April.

Information: nationalgardeningweek.org.uk The Rock Garden in spring with rhododendron in the foreground at RHS Garden Wisley

music Cranleigh Arts Centre Cranleigh Saturday 11 April Mike Sanchez Band Mike and his band, which once included Imelda May, return. Information: 01483 278000 or cranleighartscentre.org

Leith Hill Musical Festival

Vivace Chorus

Dorking Halls

Guildford Cathedral

Thursday 9 to Saturday 11 April The April Festival opens with the choirs of Division 3: Dorking, Epsom, Horsley & Leatherhead.

Saturday 23 May, 7.30pm A Concert for Rowan in aid of Rainbow Trust A fundraising concert inspired by Rowan Todd, who lives in Guildford, and was diagnosed with a brain tumour when she was five. Rowan and her family have been supported by the Rainbow Trust throughout years of treatment at Great Ormond Street Hospital. Over 300 musicians, including Guildford’s Vivace Chorus, Salisbury Community Choir, the Vasari Singers, Southern Pro Musica and local children’s choirs will come together to perform Rowan’s composer father Will Todd’s music, alongside Bob Chilcott’s The Salisbury Vespers.

Information: 01403 240093 or lhmf.org.uk

Surrey Hills International Music Festival 2015 Various locations

Farnham Maltings

Monday 20 April Bellowhead Britain’s most successful traditional folk act perform. Tuesday 28 April Simple Minds Jim Kerr and his band are back.

Thursday 30 April to Saturday 2 May The sixth year of the Festival with world class artists at stunning venues. Concert details are: Thursday 30 April: French horn player Han Xiaoming, clarinettist Michael Collins, violinists Alexander Sitkovetsky and Natalie Klouda, BBC Young Generation Artist Leonard Elschenbroich and pianist Wu Qian at Denbies, Dorking. Friday 1 May: Cellophony, a much admired octet of eight cellos, at Holy Trinity, Guildford. Saturday 2 May: Gala Concert with cellist Natalie Clein, violinist Leticia Moreno, The London Mozart Players and guest conductor Dimitry Sitkovetsky at St Teresa’s, Effingham.

Information: 0844 7701797 or

Information: 01483 444334 or

glive.co.uk

shimf.co.uk

Farnham Tuesday 14 April Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman English folk music at its best. Friday 17 April Girls and Guitars Popular Friday showcase. Information: 01252 745444 or farnhammaltings.com

G Live Guildford

known for their original style with paintings in permanent collection at the House of Lords. Information: 01372 466740 or theartagency.co.uk

The David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation Gallery Shalford, Guildford Until Friday 29 May British wildlife sculpture by Simon Griffiths A self-taught sculptor from the north Pennines, Simon Griffiths has turned his passion for birds and wildlife into a career creating unique artworks. All sales support endangered wildlife. Gallery open Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm.

Information: 01483 444334 or

Information: 01483 272323 or

vivacechorus.org or willtodd.com

davidshepherd.org

exhibitions

Guildford House Gallery

The Art Agency Esher Until Thursday 30 April Relton Marine Painters Christine Relton and Tom Marine have been painting collaboratively since 1996 and are

High Street, Guildford Until Saturday 11 April Gordon Rushmer: A Life of Calm and Conflict A major solo exhibition by war artist and landscape painter Gordon Rushmer. Information: 01483 444751 or guildford.gov.uk/guildfordhouse

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essence events

Cranleigh Arts Centre 01483 278000 or cranleighartscentre.org Farnham Maltings 01252 745444 or farnhammaltings.com Odeon Esher 0871 2244007 or odeon.co.uk/fanatic/film_times/s89/esher Odeon Epsom 0871 2244007 or odeon.co.uk/fanatic/film_times/s88/epsom Odeon Guildford 0871 2244007 or odeon.co.uk/fanatic/film_times/s92/guildford The Screen Walton 01932 252825 or screencinemas.co.uk The Ambassadors Cinema, Woking 0844 871 6743 or ambassadortickets.com/cinema

Until Sunday 12 April The Surrey Open Photographic Competition A selection of entries will be on display from artists of all levels. Until Sunday 5 July Damien Hirst: New Religion A body of work from the artist that includes silkscreen prints and sculptures illustrating Hirst’s belief that “science is the new religion for many people”. Information: 01483 737800 or thelightbox.org.uk

McAllister Thomas Godalming Saturday 11 to Tuesday 28 April David Atkins: Shared Journeys Discovered by art critic Brian Sewell, David has become one of the most important and collected landscape painters in Britain.

Information: 01252 713208 or newashgate.org.uk

Watts Gallery Compton, Guildford Until Sunday 7 June Liberating Fashion: Aesthetic Dress in Victorian Portraits Showcasing masterpieces by Victorian greats, including Watts, Leighton and more. Friday 24 April, until 9pm Watts at night Late night opening, with two for one admission, music, a bar, performances and creative workshops for all ages.

Fox Asleep, British wildlife sculpture by Simon Griffiths, DSWF

Information: 01483 813593 or wattsgallery.org.uk

mcallisterthomasfineart.co.uk

national trust

New Ashgate Gallery

See the March issue of essence for

Farnham

National Trust Easter weekend

Until Saturday 2 May Spring craft collection The best of craft talent handpicked by the gallery team. Until Saturday 9 May Beautiful Abstracts and Elegant Design An exhibition from abstract painter Lesley Jones and furniture designer Matthew Corbishley.

events or visit nationaltrust.org.uk.

Information: 01483 860591 or

Family Group by Lilly Henry, The Sculpture Garden, Birtley House

Woking

Until Saturday 9 May Rising Stars 2015 The national showcase of new craft and design talent in the UK.

Claremont Landscape Garden Esher Saturday 11 April, 6am Dawn walk and breakfast The magic of sunrise, followed by a cooked breakfast in the café. Information: 01372 467806

The Lightbox Gallery and Museum

cinemas

58 www.essence-magazine.co.uk Coronation Cowslips, Surrey Wildlife Trust

Hatchlands Park

Brooklands Museum

East Clandon, Guildford

Weybridge

Every Thursday during bluebell season, 6–8pm Bluebell evening Photograph the bluebells and enjoy without the crowds.

Sunday 12 April Brooklands MG Era MGs of all ages are welcome and don’t miss the cavalcade on the Mercedes-Benz World circuit. Sunday 19 April London Bus Museum spring gathering The south east’s largest and longest-running bus show with up to 200 visiting buses and coaches, old and new.

Information: 01483 222482

Polesden Lacey Great Bookham, near Dorking Until Saturday 31 October Archive tours: Society’s soldiers Find out about the men who convalesced at Polesden Lacey during the First World War.

Information: 01932 857381 or brooklandsmuseum.com

Information: 01372 452048

Cranleigh Arts Centre

National Trust/John Millar

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Winkworth Arboretum

Loseley Spring Garden Show

Surrey Wildlife Trust

Guildford

Saturday 11 April, 10.30am–12 noon Down on the farm! See calves and goat kids at the Trust’s farm on Wisley Common. Booking essential on 07896 640165. Sunday 26 April, 10.30am–12 noon Coronation Cowslips Visit the Cowslip wildflower meadow at Sheepleas. Contact: 07817 166652.

Friday 17 to Sunday 19 April Plant sales, garden stalls, driftwood sculpture, food stalls and more all set in the stunning Walled Gardens.

Winkworth Arboretum

Cranleigh

Godalming

Information: 01372 220644 or

Until Saturday 9 May Fundraising open day Showcasing the Centre’s diverse range of workshops for adults and children with free taster sessions.

nationaltrust.org.uk

Information: 01483 278000 or

Cobham

cranleighartscentre.org

Sunday 26 April, 9.30am–4pm Wild food and medicine Outdoor workshop with John Ryder, previously a chief instructor for Ray Mears.

Wednesday 6 May Winkworth’s Wednesday walks A guided walk around the Arboretum.

Information: loseleypark.co.uk

Painshill Park

Various locations

out & about

Dorking Museum & Heritage Centre Saturday 18 April Family activity day Every third Saturday of each month.

Information: 01932 868113 or

Beerex 2015 Festival Thursday 23 to Saturday 25 April Enjoy real ales, ciders, BBQ food and live music.

Information: 01306 876591 or

RHS Garden Wisley

Esher

dorkingmuseum.org.uk

Woking

Information: 01252 745444 or

Gatton Park

farnhammaltings.com

Reigate

Birtley House

Sunday 3 May The Park and gardens will be open.

Friday 24 and Saturday 25 April bet365 Friday and bet365 Jump Finale The return of the flat season at Sandown Park with top quality racing over two consecutive days.

Guildford

Information: 01737 649068 or

Until Sunday 26 April Orchids in the Glasshouse A celebration of the stunning orchid. Friday 17 April National Open Gardens Day See previous Spotlight.

The Sculpture Garden Saturday 2 to Sunday 31 May With over 150 exhibits set within the gardens of Birtley House, which are not normally open to public, this is the largest temporary sculpture exhibition in Surrey.

gattonpark.com

Information: rhs.org.uk/wisley

Farnham Maltings, Farnham

Dorking

Guildford Model Engineering Society Stoke Park, Guildford

Information: 01483 899513 or

Sunday 19 April, 2–5pm Public open afternoon Miniature steam trains and more.

birtleyevents.co.uk

Information: gmes.org.uk

Bocketts Farm

Hogsback Brewery Tours

Fetcham

Tongham

Until Sunday 12 April Easter eggstravaganza Lambing, Easter trail and lots more. Information: 01372 363764 or

Various times Entertaining guided tours of the brewery, housed in eighteenth century farm buildings.

bockettsfarm.co.uk

Information: hogsback.co.uk

Information: 01483 795471 or surreywildlifetrust.org

sport

painshill.co.uk

Sandown Park

Information: 01372 464348 or sandown.co.uk

farmers’ markets Camberley Saturday 18 April, 10am–3pm Cranleigh Saturday 18 April, 10am–2pm Epsom Sunday 5 April and 3 May, 9am–1.30pm Farnham Sunday 19 April, 10am–1.30pm Guildford Tuesday 7 April and 5 May, 10.30am–3.30pm Haslemere Sunday 5 April and 3 May, 10am–1pm Milford Sunday 19 April, 10am–1.30pm Ripley Saturday 11 April, 9am–1pm Walton-on-Thames Saturday 4 April and 2 May, 9.30am–2pm Woking Thursday 16 April, 9am–2.30pm

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essence interior solutions

Design for life Start planning living space this spring with bespoke storage solutions from Elite Interiors London.

ow that spring has finally arrived, with warmer days and lighter evenings, thoughts invariably turn to ushering in the new and parting with what is no longer needed. Call it decluttering or spring-cleaning – it’s the time of year when many start planning living spaces to learn to love rooms again. The home should be a place that makes life easier and more enjoyable. The trend for open plan living can interfere with our desire to achieve that sleek minimalist space to withdraw to after a hectic working day, or to entertain in at the weekend. The single biggest obstacle to de-cluttering is finding flexible and stylish storage solutions that suit both the owner and the home. Elite Interiors London provide bespoke storage solutions designed and crafted from scratch in its Surrey workshop. Elite will work together with a client to create a design and then select the materials and high-quality finishes that reflect unique home and lifestyle needs. From functional home office requirements to media walls and home entertainment solutions, Elite’s thirty years of collective expertise offer an aesthetic approach coupled with solid craftsmanship. Customer care is a top priority – experience has taught the importance of listening to a client’s needs – which helps the company advise on the type of product that will suit a client’s home. With an eye for both creative and functional design, as well as attention to detail, unused areas can be transformed into a feature, whether for display or storage. Through the use of bespoke design, the smallest of nooks can be transformed with the use of shelving, an alcove cabinet or stylish floating shelves. In the bedroom, individually constructed fitted wardrobes can

60 www.essence-magazine.co.uk

Before

optimise the use of space in a dressing area. All Elite’s products are fitted with high quality internal components, including LED lighting and soft close hardware. Space around a doorway can be transformed into a display feature with bold shelving. A window can be framed with an elegant window seat that can be used as a quiet and sunny reading space. The options are endless. Elite can fully finish cabinets in an extensive range of hand painted colours or spray finishes, in eggshell or high gloss, to either match or contrast with existing décor. High-end MFC boards are also available in a range of colours, wood tones and metallic finishes that are highly durable and abrasion resistant. And for those wishing to let the spring sunshine into their home without losing privacy, Elite also specialise in wooden plantation shutters, including the range from interior designer Kelly Hoppen, and polyvinyl options for bathrooms. Most sizes of windows and openings can be covered using a range of frames and

After

mounting options including tracked systems for wider openings. There are a variety of slat sizes, colours and tilt rod options to allow creation of a shutter that reflects personality and home style. Until 30 May, Elite Interiors London is offering essence readers a free, in-home design consultation and £250 towards LED lighting or cabinet additions. Please telephone Nina Haydon, Partner 01372 450355 for more or visit www.eliteinteriorslondon.com.

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essence info Elite Interiors London Telephone: 01372 450335 020 7183 3731 Website: www.eliteinteriorslondon.com

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essence art

Art for all

Nestled in the Surrey countryside, and only thirty minutes from Waterloo, stands the Watts Gallery and Artists’ Village. Dedicated to the art of G.F. and Mary Watts, a Victorian couple with true drive and passion for the arts, essence discovered more about this unique establishment.

eorge Frederic Watts (1817–1904) was widely considered to be the greatest painter of the Victorian age. He enjoyed an unparalleled reputation with his varied work earning him the title of ‘England’s Michelangelo.’ George, together with his wife Mary, left a true legacy in the Watts Collection which is now displayed in the restored Watts Gallery in Compton, first opened in 1904. Described as an Artists' Village, a visit to the Watts Gallery includes not only the Gallery itself, but Watts Studios, Chapel and Limnerslease, the autumn/winter residence of George and Mary. A gem in the heart of the Surrey countryside, the Village encompasses the Watts’ ‘art for all’ ethos in a space where the past interplays with the present. The Gallery boasts an art

collection of national significance, all housed in a jewel-like Victorian gallery; the Arts & Crafts chapel is breathtakingly ornate and Limnerslease provides a unique opportunity to witness an artist’s house and studio from the nineteenth century. Following extensive work, aided by Heritage Lottery funding, Watts Studios will be opening in autumn of this year, further developing the Artists’ Village and bringing G.F. Watts’ working Victorian studio back to life. The Studios aim to reinforce the Watts’ vision and ties to the local community.

•

essence info Watts Gallery Down Lane, Compton, Guildford, Surrey GU3 1DQ Telephone: 01483 810235 Website: www.wattsgallery.org.uk

Forthcoming events Liberating Fashion: Aesthetic Dress in Victorian Portraits Until Sunday 7 June Masterpieces by some of the greatest artists of the Victorian age are brought together to explore the Aesthetic Dress Movement. A sumptuous exhibition of paintings, Aesthetic Dress in Victorian Portraits tells a fascinating story about art and the social history of fashion through paintings. Exhibition highlights include works by Watts, Tissot, Alma-Tadema and Frith. Breakfast tours of the exhibition are available on Thursday 23 April and 21 May from 10 to 11.30am, £15/£12 concessions including refreshments. Pre booking is essential. Meet in the Visitor Centre.

Sneak peak of The Art of Bedlam: Richard Dadd Opens Tuesday 16 June Richard Dadd was one of the most gifted artists of the early Victorian period, making his name with imaginative, highly detailed Shakespearean images. Despite later suffering from severe mental illness and spending much of his career in psychiatric hospitals, Dadd continued to create beautiful and haunting pictures, including masterpieces such as The Fairy Feller’s Master-Stroke. The Art of Bedlam exhibition will display Dadd’s case notes alongside his art, giving an insight into his psyche at the time he was interned in Bethlem Hospital as ‘criminally insane’.

Watts at dusk This spring, Watts Gallery – Artists’ Village will come alive as the sun sets on the Surrey Hills. Enjoy a surprising evening, exploring the Artists’ Village after hours during Watts at dusk, a series of unique Friday night events. Highlights of the programme include live jazz bands, millinery and craft workshops as well as twilight picnics on the lawn. Watts at dusk is held on Friday nights at Watts Gallery – Artists’ Village: 24 April, 15 May and 5 June. Two for one admission is available and under 16s go free. To book any of the events listed please telephone: 01483 813593 or book online at www.wattsgallery.org.uk.

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essence interiors

What dreams are made of C

Designing a children’s room is an exciting process as it opens up a whole world of design possibilities. Jenny Allan of JCA Interiors offers advice on how to create the perfect room for a child.

hildren often wish to be involved with the design and decoration of their rooms and it’s fun to create a moodboard with them. There are many amazing wallpapers, bespoke structures and decorative pieces that can be incorporated to create a wonderfully unique room. A chance to really let imaginations run wild! Brighter colours are a popular choice in children’s rooms, however, it is important to utilise the right combinations and amounts of colour to avoid an unsightly clash. Use two or three different colours within a design rather than just one to create a bold statement. Spice up the traditional pink or blue bedrooms with tones of orange, lime or turquoise. Patterns on fabrics and wallpapers play a large part in room design and should be co-ordinated with the choice of accent colours. Chevrons, stripes and polka dots all work well and when used in moderation create a beautifully balanced scheme.

Wall stickers are a great way to add interest. From racetracks to full wall sized maps of the world, there are many different options to suit a child’s room. As wall stickers are not permanent, they can be easily removed as a child outgrows the theme. Decorating the room with wall art in the form of framed posters usually works well in children's rooms - with the child choosing a number of their favourite prints and images. These images can then be outlined with simple white or black frames for a polished but fun look.

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The room needs to be multifunctional as it is not only a place where children sleep, but also perhaps where homework is done and time spent with friends. Set aside different areas for study and even create a den, for example, a mezzanine with beanbags for hanging out with friends.

Ensure specific areas are lit in accordance with their function. Adequate lighting for a study area is vital, but also a dimmer switch is useful to soften light at bedtime. Storage is always an important consideration as children are constantly accumulating new items and pieces to be stored away. Underbed storage is often helpful and can be maximised by a bespoke bedbase made with extra drawers. Include robust shelving units in the room to display prized possessions such as awards or treasured photos. The inside of these units could be painted in one or two of the chosen accent colours to tie the whole scheme together. Children’s rooms are so much fun to design: they enable us to be inventive and push creative boundaries. Add interesting pieces of furniture such as an iconic chair or bespoke bunkbeds to create a real design statement and make the room even more special. With enough imagination, there is the opportunity to give children the room of their dreams.

•

essence info Jenny Allan is founder of interior design company JCA Interiors Telephone: 020 3714 9325 Email: info@jcainteriors.co.uk Website: www.jcainteriors.co.uk

JCA Interiors provides luxury residential interior design services throughout the UK and abroad Creating beautiful interiors with great attention to detail tailored to client specific requirements, providing an exceptional interior design experience.

020 37149325 www.jcainteriors.co.uk info@jcainteriors.co.uk 23 Hanover Square, Mayfair, London W1S 1JB

essence charity

Massed choir

sings for Rowan Rowan Todd

Over 300 musicians are coming together to raise money for local children’s charity Rainbow Trust, all inspired by a very special little girl, Rowan Todd.

owan Todd was diagnosed with a brain tumour at five years and she and her family have been supported by Rainbow Trust children’s charity throughout years of treatment at Great Ormond Street Hospital. Rowan’s dad, Will, is an internationallyrecognised composer, whose Mass in Blue has been performed all over the world and is a well-known figure in Guildford. Will also composed The Call of Wisdom for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee service at St. Paul’s Cathedral, and his work The City Garden will feature in a grand charity concert taking place at Guildford Cathedral on Saturday 23 May 2015 at 7.30pm in aid of Rainbow Trust. “Our daughter Rowan was diagnosed with Neorofibrosis Type 1 in 2009. In particular, she had a tumour on her optic nerve that was gradually diminishing her sight as well as threatening her overall health. Our day-to-day life has been wonderfully supported by Rainbow Trust, which has offered valuable support, taking Rowan and her mum to hospital appointments, leaving me free to work and look after our other children,” explains Will. Over 300 musicians, including Guildford’s Vivace Chorus, Salisbury Community Choir, London chamber choir Vasari singers and Surrey’s orchestra, Southern Pro Musica, will come together to perform A Concert for Rowan, which will include Will’s music, alongside Bob Chilcott’s The Salisbury Vespers. They will be joined by a speciallycreated children’s choir, called ‘Rowan’s Choir’, with singers from Tormead School, Queen Eleanor’s Junior School and George Abbot School.

Tormead singers

Conductor Jeremy Backhouse is looking forward to a concert full of toe-tapping jazzy music and the power of massedgroup singing: “As the conductor of all three of the adult choirs taking part, it’s amazing to be able to bring so many musicians together for this fantastic cause,” he said. “All the choirs have a special relationship with the Todd family,” he added. “We are thrilled that we will not only be filling Guildford Cathedral with this wonderful music, but raising a lot of money for a cause close to all our hearts.” Organisers are expecting a full house, and Will knows what’s at stake. “I would love to see the cathedral packed full so that we can raise as much money as possible to keep this wonderful work going strong.” l

essence info Rainbow Trust children’s charity, based in Leatherhead, works across the UK supporting over 25% of the 6,000 families in England who have a child with a life-threatening or terminal illness and need the tailor-made system of support that Rainbow Trust provides. A Concert for Rowan is a special event created to raise money for Rainbow Trust. Tickets, priced from £16 to £28, are available from www.vivacechorus.org and the Guildford Tourist Information Centre on 01483 444334. All proceeds go to Rainbow Trust. Follow @Concert4Rowan on Twitter, ‘Like’ the A Concert for Rowan Facebook page and find out more about Will Todd’s music at www.willtodd.com.

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Painting a colourful future...

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