Beaconsfield Life Magazine November 2011

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BEACONSFIELD LIFE

BEACONSFIELD LIFE GERRARDS CROSS, AMERSHAM, RICKMANSWORTH & CHORLEYWOOD, BERKHAMSTED, MARLOW & HENLEY-ON-THAMES W W W. T H E L I F E M A G A Z I N E S . C O M T H E Q UA L I T Y L I F E ST Y L E M AGA Z I N E

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CHRISTMAS AT THE COLLOSEUM A PRIVATE PREMIERE IN GERRARDS CROSS THE ARTICHOKE: 9 YEARS OF SUCCESS

WWW.THELIFEMAGAZINES.COM THE QUALITY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2011

FESTIVE FUN AT

THE RIVER & ROWING MUSEUM LOCAL LIFE | BEAUTY | FASHION | TRAVEL | DINING | PROPERTY

WHERE SOLD

£2.60

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editor’s letter

Welcome to our November issue… PUBLISHED BY THE FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD, THE RIDINGS, WOODFIELD LANE, ESSENDON, HERTFORDSHIRE AL9 6JJ

0844 800 8439 WWW.THELIFEMAGAZINES.COM EDITOR FAYE MANNING EDITOR’S ASSISTANT KATIE MILLER SUB EDITOR ALEX LUX FASHION EDITOR NICHOLAS PETER BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER HELEN CHENERY 07738 783756 DESIGN & PRODUCTION JASON DANIEL ACCOUNT MANAGER KATHY MANNING, KEN FLEET SALES PATRICK SMITH, JAMES MARSHALL, ALISON GRIFFIN DIRECTORS PATRICK SMITH, RORY SMITH

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s Christmas approaches the River & Rowing Museum is getting into the festive spirit with a wonderful range of special Christmas activities for all the family to enjoy. These magical Christmas events will take place on the 20th and 21st December and no booking is required. In addition to these fun-filled seasonal activities visitors can also enjoy the Museum’s unique permanent collection, and the superb range of special exhibitions, part of the Museum’s highly regarded annual exhibitions programme. The carefully modulated speech, that steely glare, the handbag …. anyone who lived in Britain through the Thatcher years will remember the dominance of our first female Prime Minister during that time. You can support a local good cause and be one of the first to see the eagerly awaited film – The Iron Lady – the story of Margaret Thatcher and her rise to power at a private screening at The Odeon, Gerrards Cross, on Friday 6th January 2012 – the opening night. There will also be an exclusive behind the scenes talk on the making of the film, some of which was shot at Pinewood Studios in Iver Heath. As usual, we have local events, fun days out and success stories. An extensive House & Garden section that has everything to make your home even more special, beauty tips and a Food & Drink section that may help out with the Festive Season approaching.

Faye Manning, Editor *Our front cover was kindly supplied by Marc Princivalle – he can be contacted on 07736 794 871, www.imagesconcept.com or marc.princivalle@imagesconcept.com

© All Rights reserved. All Fish Media Group Ltd magazines are copyright and cannot be reproduced in any form either in part or whole withozut written permission from the publishers. Whilst Fish Media Group Ltd takes every reasonable precaution, no responsibility can be accepted for any property, services or products offered in any of our publications and any loss arising. Whilst every care is taken with all materials submitted to all of our magazines the publisher cannot accept the loss or damage to such material. The Fish Media Group Ltd reserves the right to reject or accept any advertisement, article or material prior to publication. Opinions expressed are strictly those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views or policies of Fish Media Group Ltd. We accept no liability for any misprints or mistakes and no responsibility can be accepted for the content of these pages.

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DIVORCE?

c o n t e n t s Editor’s Letter

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Contents

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What’s On…

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Local Life, Festive Fun, Events & Days Out 12 Christmas Celebrations In Henley On Thames A Special Night Out In Gerrards Cross Local Success With The Artichoke Panto Season At The Watford Coliseum Get More Out Of Your Life Magazine! A Local Getaway At The Olde Bell The Olympic Torch Tour Celebrities Come Out For A Good Cause Get Your Skates On! Motoring Mayhem With Top Gear An Equestrian Christmas Party Winter Wonderland In Hyde Park Covent Garden Christmas Viva La Vida A Christmas Tree Cause

The Hancock Quins Div vorce Helpline It’s FREE, confidential and anonymous. No need to give your name. No charge to you. No obligation. Just friendly information that you can trust.

01923 650 881 YOU ONLY PAY FOR THE PHONE CALL

Fashion ID Your Wardrobe Fine Jewellery In Beaconsfield Indulge Yourself The Best Labels

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Health & Beauty Q&A With Dr. Shameek Popat Shimmer, Spark & Party Beautiful Hair A Winning Smile

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House & Garden Antiques With John Bly More Bang For Your Buck Going Solar Makes Sense Swim All Year Round Home Technology At Its Best Wonderful Wood A Hidden Gem A Note From Toby Smith The Best Bed Linen In The World

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Business Feature For All Your Business Needs

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Food & Drink Laurie Gear’s Recipe Splendiferous Food A Taste Of Christmas Chocolate Luxury

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what’s

o n

what’s on BEACONSFIELD CHARITY CHRISTMAS CARD SHOP

The popular charity Christmas card shop has relocated into Beaconsfield Town Hall this year - it is just across the car park, next to Waitrose. Still the same excellent choice of hundreds of cards from 45 different local and national charities plus advent calendars, wrapping paper and other Christmas items. Organised by Cards For Good Causes. Monday - Saturday, 0930 - 1630 Town Hall, Penn Road, Beaconsfield Buckinghamshire HP2 2PP Wed 2 Nov 2011 to Mon 19 Dec 2011. www.cardsforcharity.co.uk TUKKANA CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAYRE

Just to say a special thank you to all the stallholders who came to the Marlow event which was a fantastic success! Hence me doing another one! This craft fayre is being held in an amazing location in New Amersham right in the centre of the main high street, where there's lots of passing trade. It's a large hall including a canteen area where passing trade will be able to sit down and have tea and cakes and also a children's area. So please if you're interested in being part of this exciting event, contact me asap as we are rapidly running out of spaces. This event will rum from 12-4.30pm. It’s £18 a stall including table and chairs. Parking available. St Michael’s and All Angels Church, 70 Sycamore Rd, Amersham, Bucks, Buckinghamshire HP6 5DR Sat 3 Dec 2011 CAVENDISH FESTIVE FAYRE IN AMERSHAM

Come and buy your Christmas gifts and stocking fillers at this Festive Fayre ! Wonderful handmade individual gifts alongside the usual favourites. Approx 20+ sellers (a few tables 10

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left if anyone's interested ?) Items start at £1....so lots of bargains. Refreshments- coffee or tea and a cake only £1. Free Entry+Free Parking ! Some of proceeds to go to a local good cause in Amersham. 10am-2pm FREE ENTRY phone Vanessa on:01494 786527 Amersham Free Church,Woodside Road. Buckinghamshire HP6 6AJ Sat 10 Dec 2011 CLIC SARGENT’S BIG BUCKET COLLECTION

This December, during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, CLIC Sargent will be holding its Big Bucket Collection across the UK. Please join us as a Collection Coordinator and simply ask your friends and family to help you collect for one day at this venue near you, helping us raise over £100,000 for children with cancer. Sign up and we will give you all the support and materials you will need. For more information contact us on: 0117 314 8602 Tesco Amersham Buckinghamshire HP7 0HA Sat 10 Dec 2011 and Sun 11 Dec 2011 www.clicsargent.org.uk/bigbucket collection SILVER CHRISTMAS BAUBLES

Part of our regular Craft sessions in the Pure Living Company, an Interior Design Shop in Chalfont St Giles, Silver Christmas baubles. Claire Hutchins will help you to create a beautiful silver bauble using silver wires, pearls and beads. You will have the opportunity to buy extra materials to continue making these at home. 19.00-21.00. Cost will be £15 per person including your tuition, materials and refreshments. 1 St Giles Walk, 10 High Street, Chalfont St Giles Buckinghamshire HP8 4QA

THE CRODSWOGGLE CHARACTER QUIZ AT THE ROALD DAHL MUSEUM

For all ages: ever wanted to find out more about Roald Dahl’s characters? Come along to the Museum today and join in with our quiz to do just that All day. Free for Museum visitors (adult £6, child £4, conc £4, family £19). Call 01494 892192 to book tickets. 81-83 High Street, Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire Buckinghamshire HP16 0AL Sun 27 Nov 2011 www.roalddahlmuseum.org Wed 30 Nov 2011 www.thepurelivingcompany.co.uk LATE NIGHT CHRISTMAS SHOPPING AT THE PURE LIVING COMPANY, CHALFONT ST GILES

Every Thursday from 24th November until 22nd December you are invited to join us in The Pure Living Company for late night Christmas Shopping. Chalfont St Giles is a beautiful village, centred around a Village Green with a pretty church and duck pond. There are a number of restaurants and pubs to visit after shopping! All day until 8 pm. 01494 876249 The Pure Living Company, 1, St Giles Walk, 10 The High Street, Chalfont St Giles. Buckinghamshire HP8 4QA Thu 24 Nov 2011, Thu 1 Dec, Thu 8 Dec, Thu 15 Dec, Thu 22 Dec. www.thepurelivingcompany.co.uk CHARITY CHRISTMAS & CRAFT FAIR

Come and join us at Sir William Ramsay School for a Christmas & Craft Fair on Sunday 4th December from 1pm to 4pm. All your Christmas present shopping under one roof - wine, cheese, jewellery, books, cards,

cakes, knitting, traditional sweets, party wares and much, much more. Children can visit Santa in his Grotto or buy and make crafty gifts for family members. Refreshments will be available in the lobby. There will also be an amazing prize raffle which will be drawn on the day. Tickets are available for 30p each. Stallholder spaces are available for £10. To book your space download a booking form from www.runningforjen.co.uk or call Louise Goodridge on 01494 431888 The fair runs from 1pm to 4pm. Please make a donation for entry. Sir William Ramsay School, Rose Avenue, Hazelmere, High Wycombe Buckinghamshire HP15 7UB. Sun 4 Dec 2011 www.runningforjen.co.uk CHRISTMAS FASHION SCHOOL

Passion for Fashion? Join us this Christmas and become a top fashion designer. For ages 6-8. 8-11 and 11-14 years, suitable for complete beginners to advanced students. Various activities over the week including making outfits, designing your own collection and making jewellery and accessories. Fashion show on the last day for friends and family to come and be amazed at the creations. Start your own fashion line and come for the fun, fashion and friends! Come for as many days as you like and get designing. Our workshops are fun and interactive and encourage young people to get artistic, creative and hands-on. We teach our students the skills and techniques to continue designing and creating at home, and our students develop self-confidence when they see what they can achieve. Students have a fantastic time, and not only come away with their creations but also new skills and new friendships. Monday 19th December Wednesday 21st December Times: 9.00am - 3.30pm. Ages: 6 - 8, 8 - 11, 11 - 14 years Cost: £75 for the week or £27 per day Come for as many days a you like or come for the whole week. To

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book, visit our website, call the booking like 01494 578577 or email. Beaconsfield School, Wattleton Road, Beaconsfield Bucks HP9 1SJ Mon 19 Dec to Wed 21 Dec 2011 www.ifashiondesign.co.uk CHIPPERFIELD CHORAL SOCIETY CAROL CONCERT IN AID OF CANCER RESEARCH UK

With Chipperfield Choral Society, a concert of Christmas Music and Carols for all to sing in aid of Cancer Research UK 8pm tickets £10.00 via the Choir box office 01923 400520 The Chapel, Royal Masonic School, Rickmansworth Park, Rickmansworth Hertfordshire WD3 4HF. Thu 15 Dec 2011 www.chipperfieldchoral.co.uk GOLD FEVER OVER 25’S

Join us for the launch of our exclusive over 25's club night. Delivering the best in 80's, 90's and 00's dance anthems. Singles, Couples and Parties welcome. 23rd December 11 - Xmas Launch Party 06th Jan and then every other friday for the rest of the year! Dress Code: Ladies, dress to impress. Gents, collared shirts only and NO trainers Admission: £7.50 2100-0200 The Bellhouse Hotel, Oxford Road, Beaconsfield Buckinghamshire HP9 2XE Fri 23 Dec 2011, Fri 6 Jan, Fri 20 Jan, Fri 3 Feb, Fri 17 Feb. Website: facebook/goldfever THE BIG MESSIAH

Marlow Choral Society with Princes Risborough Music Society, accompanied by Cygnus Orchestra of London, conducted by Christopher Grant. The original orchestral score has been re-orchestrated by Sir Eugene Goossens with a full complement of modern instruments. 7.30pm Tickets £12 and £16 available from 07976 848002 or Theatre Booking Office Wycombe Swan Theatre, St Mary’s St., High Wycombe, Bucks, Buckinghamshire HP11 2XE. Sun 27 Nov 2011 www.marlowchoralsociety.org.uk THE JUNGLE BOOK

Oxfordshire Theatre Company

present the thrilling and heart-warming story of Mowgli, the boy brought up by wolves. Inventively staged and performed through a dazzling blend of songs, dance and drama this is a special play for children and the young at heart alike. 2pm (Friday 6:30pm) Adult £12, Conc £11, 01491 575698 Kenton Theatre, Henley-upon-Thames Oxfordshire RG9 2BP Wed 21 Dec to Sat 24 Dec 2011 oxfordshiretheatrecompany.co.uk BISHAM ABBEY OVERNIGHT GHOST HUNT

Bisham Abbey is known as one of the most haunted buildings in Britain. Besides its holy well, it has a secret passage and spectral lights and ghosts that haunt this location. True to form, it also has a regular ghosts that appear including monks, a young boy found trapped in the fire place and the haunting spirit of the governess. The spectral lights have been seen throughout history "dancing across the lawn" and It is said on midsummer evening an eerie blue mist emanating from the house rolls across the Thames but most dramatic of all, is the Abbey's ghost. The ghost of Lady Hoby has haunted the abbey relentlessly since her death in 1609. Special Offer buy one ticket and get another free!!! £35 per person and get another ticket free!!! 9pm till 3am Off Marlow Road (no access via Temple Lane) Near Marlow Buckinghamshire United Kingdom Buckinghamshire SL7 1RR. Fri 9 Dec 2011 www.psychicnights.com POETRY NIGHT - FOR PEOPLE WHO WRITE OR WHO ASPIRE TO WRITE

A relaxing evening to encourage, inspire and share your thoughts and feelings, through poetic and reflective writing. Free to take part - just be punctual and bring your original thought. Starts at 7.30pm Clayton’s Marlow, 16 Oxford Road, Marlow Buckinghamshire SL7 2NL. Tue 29 Nov 2011 www.claytonsmarlow.com

The Tanyard, Tring Road, Wendover, Bucks, HP22 6ND t: 01296 625488 e: men@andrewgardner.co.uk

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LocaL festive

fu n

JINGLE BELLS AND MR TOAD IT’S A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS AT THE RIVER & ROWING MUSEUM

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s Christmas approaches the River & Rowing Museum is getting into the festive spirit with a wonderful range of special Christmas activities for all the family to enjoy. These magical Christmas events will take place on the 20 and 21 December and no booking is required. In addition to these fun-filled seasonal activities visitors can also enjoy the Museum’s unique permanent collection, and the superb range of special exhibitions, part of the Museum’s highly regarded annual exhibitions programme. For younger members of the family this Christmas, join Mr Toad and his friends Ratty, Mole and Badger from the children’s classic The Wind in the Willows for Christmas with Mr Toad and Friends. Join these wonderful riverside characters as they celebrate Christmas with crafts, activities, song and dance. Mr. Toad will be giving presents and listening to what children want for Christmas as Ratty teaches them about what happens to wildlife around the river during the winter. There will also be games, sing-a-longs, and performances from Mr. Toad and his friends which will get children of all ages joining in. The eight bells of St. Mary’s Church in Henley will also be ringing out all festive season as they host Ding Dong and Jingle! Christmas Bells. Ideal for older members of the family, there will be opportunities to learn about the historic bells and craft workshops

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where you can make your own jingle bell decorations for your Christmas Tree. As well as these festive activity days the Museum’s diverse programme of special exhibitions continue throughout the winter. Best of all you can take advantage of the full range of activities, exhibitions and galleries for the price of a single ticket – just £8 for adults and £6 for children - as tickets allow unlimited admission for a full year. Exhibition highlights this season include Shooting from the Front line: a movingly personal photographic account of one man’s experiences in the war in Afghanistan, with pictures by Major Paul Smyth of the Territorial Army – a resident of Henley. Also on display is the weird and wonderful Worn to be Wild exhibition - a chance for visitors to get in touch with their inner animal with Kate Plumtree’s interactive wildlife-themed fashion collection, which draws inspiration from birds and mammals from the riverbank, on show in the Museum’s Kirkham Gallery. All this can be enjoyed along with a relaxing stop off in the terrace café or Museum’s riverside shop, which is fully stocked for Christmas with a wonderful range of gifts. For information on the Christmas activity days on the 20 and 21 December, or the Museum’s current programme of special exhibitions please visit: www.rrm.co.uk

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LocaL events

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he carefully modulated speech, that steely glare, the handbag …. anyone who lived in Britain through the Thatcher years will remember the dominance of our first female Prime Minister during that time. You can support a local good cause and be one of the first to see the eagerly awaited film – The Iron Lady – the story of Margaret Thatcher and her rise to power at a private screening at The Odeon, Gerrards Cross, on Friday 6 January 2012 – the opening night. There will also be an exclusive behind the scenes talk on the making of the film, some of which was shot at Pinewood Studios in Iver Heath. The Iron Lady is a story based on actual political events, starring Academy award winners Meryl Streep as Lady Thatcher and Jim Broadbent as Denis Thatcher. At the start of filming Ms Streep said “The prospect of exploring the swathe cut through history by this remarkable woman is a daunting and exciting challenge.” The remainder of the cast is made up of the very best of British acting talent including Richard E Grant and Anthony Head as cabinet ministers Geoffrey Howe and Michael Heseltine. Meryl Streep unveiled the official billboard poster for the film earlier this month and critics have already hailed her performance as “magnificent,” “getting everything right” and

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THE IRON LADY’S NOT FOR TURNING… IN GERRARDS CROSS! “astonishing and all but flawless.” The private screening is being organised by local charity Scannappeal to raise funds for its Brain Injury Appeal for the Neurorehabilitation Unit at Amersham Hospital. The Unit ensures the best possible recovery for patients across Buckinghamshire with brain injuries as a result of accidents, stroke, cardiac arrest, meningitis or tumours. Scannappeal aims to provide the most advanced equipment to substantially improve and speed up patient recovery. Funds raised to date have

already purchased a speech synthesiser and gait-retrainer which will be used to rehabilitate patients with brain, spinal cord or nerve injury. Dr Richard Stevens, consultant rheumatologist and general physician in the Unit, said ‘This equipment is set to make a big difference to the quality of the service we can offer our patients. In particular, the gait re-trainer is individually programmable tailored to each patient and can be fine tuned to every stage of their rehabilitation’ Tickets for this special film screening cost £15 each

(standard seat) or £25 (premium seat), which includes a complimentary drink, and can be bought from Scannappeal online at www.scannappeal.org.uk/event s or by telephone 01494 734161. The Neurorehabilitation Unit is one of only a few such dedicated units in the country and it’s in YOUR area, so please support the Appeal and help local patients. Fundraising for this Appeal will continue for another year and the Scannappeal website has lots of ideas of how you can get involved – visit www.scannappeal.org.uk

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Auction of Antique & Modern Jewellery Thursday 24th November at 10am

Visit www.fellows.co.uk/life for a complimentary catalogue Augusta House | 19 Augusta Street | Birmingham | B18 6JA | Tel: 0121 212 2131 | Email: info@fellows.co.uk

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LocAL Life Photo © Noel Murphy - www.greatbritishchefs.com

The Artichoke is 9 years old this Autumn! I

t has been an amazing journey since the restaurant first opened in 2002 and the team are looking forward to many years to come. Our ethos stands for using the best seasonal ingredients that we can source, from local producers where possible. The most significant change to the Artichoke this year, the silver lining after the fire of June 2008, has been the seamless expansion of our original restaurant into the premises next door, allowing a more spacious dining experience, the thrill of our new open kitchen and stylish comfortable interiors. We would like to thank our loyal and new clients for your support over the years and recent times. IN THE TOP 100 UK RESTAURANTS LIST BY SUNDAY TIMES!

The Artichoke has been listed in the Top 100 UK Restaurants 2012, and we could not be prouder. Having been placed at 63rd amid and above restaurants of 2 and 3 Michelin stars and many celebrity chefs we are absolutely delighted - this recognition is a reflection on how incredibly hardworking and committed the whole team. GREAT BRITISH CHEFS

Guest Chef to Life Series Laurie Gear is thrilled to be featured on an exciting new website called 16

NOVEMBER2011

Great British Chefs www.greatbritishchefs.com where you can view Laurie’s chef profile and recipes together with many of the leading chefs of Great Britain.

celebrate the festive season at the Artichoke with your friends, family or that special corporate event CHRISTMAS AT THE LASSALLE ROOM

There are 3 specially devised options for your Christmas Celebration in our elegant private dining room for 8 – 16 guests all with a

chilled glass of J Lassalle Champagne served upon arrival from its ensuite Wine Cellar. We also welcome your party reservations from 5 to 36 guests to be served in our Kitchen and Garden Dining Rooms Visit. ww.artichokerestaurant .co.uk for exclusive Christmas Menu packages for the Lassalle Room and Promotions for the Kitchen and Garden Dining Rooms A NEW YEAR’S EVE EXTRAVAGANZA

Celebratory Menu Gourmand served with Selected Wines and J Lassalle Champagne Reservations essential as space is limited The Artichoke 9 Market Square, Old Amersham, Bucks. HP7 ODF www.artichokerestaurant.co.uk 01494 726611

WELCOME NEW RESTAURANT MANAGER LUDOVIC COSSON

We are delighted to welcome our new Restaurant Manager, Ludovic Cosson who joins us from Chewton Glen. Ludovic has a wealth of experience expanding from his native France extensive training in Strasbourg, and more recently at Holbeck Ghyll 1. How would you describe yourself in 3 words? Warm, kind and happy! 2. What 3 attributes do you believe a good RM needs? Empathy, an enthusiastic work ethic and a good memory for customer names & faces & the last time they were in - there’s nothing more effective than a good customer rapport. 3. What is the funniest thing you have ever seen in the restaurant world? In a restaurant in France a waiter running the cheese trolley without any shoes on! 4. Name your favourite food? Game terrine with foie gras and grated wild apples and pears. 5. Least favourite food ? Frogs legs!

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local fe s t ive fun

CHRISTMAS AT THE

COLOSSEUM

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ith its major refurbishment project complete, the Watford Colosseum is now back in business as a major concert hall and top entertainment and hospitality venue. All the character of the beautiful listed building with its understated late art deco style and world-famous acoustics has been preserved, whilst all the facilities of a modern entertainment venue have been added. The venue now boasts new auditorium seating, lighting and sound equipment to ensure the best possible customer experience. The entire venue is also accessible with a lift to the first floor Deco Bar and circle seating. Featuring the very best of UK and International artists from the world of comedy, rock, pop and classical music as well as light entertainment and family events, the Watford Colosseum programme has something to suit all tastes. The Christmas season at the Colosseum includes a Cracking Christmas Show from the BBC Concert Orchestra, A Christmas Concert by the Watford Philharmonic Society along with a magical production of Swan Lake and The Nutcracker performed by the Russian State Ballet of Siberia. Or you could spend Christmas with the Rat Pack or book tickets for the legendary That’ll be the Day Christmas Show. But the jewel in the Christmas season’s crown is the sparkling Cinderella on Ice Christmas Show with the Russian Ice Stars.

This show is a truly magical production of the well-loved fairytale Cinderella, and the Russian Ice Stars deliver a dazzling interpretation. The high-speed combination of extraordinary skating and beautifully staged and breathtaking aerial feats will leave you mesmerised. A treat for the whole family. The Colosseum also now boasts extensive eating and drinking spaces. The stylish new restaurant, The Forum, provides full table service with menus that combine high-quality modern cuisine, seasonal flavours and locally-sourced ingredients, in fine surroundings. For a more

informal dining experience the Café-Bar provides freshly prepared sandwiches and wraps as well as hot food and salads. There is a range of bars for pre-show and interval drinks including the spectacular curved Champagne Bar in the Forum Restaurant and the intimate Deco Bar, all offering an extensive and contemporary wine and beer list and a wide range of soft drinks. Interval drinks can be ordered from any of the bars and diners in the Forum Restaurant can return to their table for their pre-ordered drinks. The warm and welcoming public spaces of the Colosseum provide the perfect place for special events, with extensive, high quality celebration, conferencing and banqueting services, which can be expertly tailored to your specification by the dedicated in-house Event and Hospitality team. The team is able to create a totally bespoke event, with the

creative and innovative team of chefs providing menus that use only the freshest ingredients, making the best use of seasonal, local and organic produce and incorporating any themes or special requests all complemented by an extensive and contemporary wine, spirit and beer list. The Watford Colosseum aims to bring the very best music, entertainment and events to Watford and to make the venue a vibrant and exciting place to visit. With a new state-of-the-art ticketing system and website all events are now pre-bookable and the best and easiest way to book is online. The website watfordcolosseum.co.uk - carries full show information, a “choose your own seat” option and a reservation facility for the Forum Restaurant – everything you need to plan and book the perfect night out! Book now on 0845 075 3993 watfordcolosseum.co.uk NOVEMBER2011 1 9

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LOcAL LIFE

GET MORE OUT OF

YOUR LIFE MAGAZINE!

W

hen you read the “Life Series” group of magazines across Berkhamsted, Amersham, Beaconsfield, Gerrards Cross, Chorleywood, Rickmansworth, Marlow and the beautiful surrounding areas about the fascinating stories concerning local people, local businesses, good causes and the countryside, towns and villages that you are part of, don’t you sometimes think that there are other topics that would look good in print? are you perhaps a keen amateur photographer producing shots taken in the immediate area that would complement and enhance the articles in the magazine? WELL – NOW’S YOUR CHANCE TO SEE YOUR NAME, OR THAT OF YOUR ORGANISATION IN PRINT!

We have highlighted many of the exciting things going on in our area, and would very much like to encourage more of you to bring your message to a wider audience. So, whether you are a new business in Berkhamsted, a 20

NOVEMBER2011

fund-raiser in Marlow, a charity organiser in Beaconsfield, a life-style coach in Chorleywood or a successful community group in amersham, we would love to hear from you! ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS WRITE AN ARTICLE (SOMETHING BETWEEN 1000-1250 WORDS), WITH PHOTOS, AND E-MAIL IT TO: PATRICK@ FISHMEDIAGROUP.CO.UK OR CALL 07932 608 797.

You’ll get the idea of the sort of thing we are looking for by browsing through this edition of the magazine. Don’t worry too much about perfect grammar or spelling – we will check it before it goes to print! So how about it? Why not get those creative juices going, sit down and start thinking of ways in which you could publicise the part of your Local Life that is most important to you? if you want to talk about what you have in mind, or would like some advice

as to how to get the best from the topic you want aired, then please include a contact number so that we can help you. Remember, “Life Series” set of magazines publishes articles about stories of general local interest, so please don’t send us the account of great-aunt Maud’s birthday or your precious off-spring’s coming of age! We would also be delighted to receive photographs relating to the area, illustrating aspects of local life, commerce or nature. again, please send your files to the above e-mail address – sorry but we are unable to accept printed media for inclusion in the magazine. WE LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING FROM YOU!

In all cases, material should be original and the work of the author/sender. fish Media Group reserves the right to edit and/or amend any material and accepts no responsibility for errors or inaccuracies, however caused. origination and copyright will be acknowledged where appropriate. Usual terms and conditions apply, and are available upon request.

Ad_Master_Layout 1 16/11/2011 13:11 Page 1

hatton garden’s leading contemporary jeweller

new nicholas james app now available nicholas james | 16-18 hatton garden | london | EC1N 8AT | +44 (0)20 7242 8000 nicholasjames.com | nicholasjameswedding.com

p22_BUCKS_OLDBELL__ 16/11/2011 18:12 Page 1

LocaL getaway

Coaching Inn Style

THE LDE O OLDE BELL BELL B63 =:23 03:: B@/<A:/B3A B63 B@/27B7=</: >:3/AC@3A =4 B63 1=/167<5 7<< 4=@ ;=23@< B@/D3::3@A

e eputed to be the oldest inn in England, The Olde Bell o ers ers locally sourced fare and ssttyylish lodgings so that guests and patrons can rediscover the pleasures of the traditional i The ďŹ rst in the family of Dhillon inn. Group’s stylish moder m n coaching establishments, The Olde Bell functions as a village in itselff,, combining great ser vice, food,, relaxed surroundings and thoughtful design,, robust food, rambling meadow gardens. W ith parts of the original building dating back to 1135, 5,, the inn creeks with heritage and histor y, palpable todaayy in the th black wooden beams,, inglenook ďŹ replaces and crooked,, sloping oak oorboards. Loved by Hollywood royalty and political icons,, Mae West,, Car y Grant,, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton and Errol F lynn were among the many guests who staayyed at the inn,, along with Winston Churchill and ffor ormer US president, sident,, D wight D Eisenhower. Nowadaays D ustin Homan,, Er E dem Moralioglu and Grace Woo oodward are seen dining in the restaurant or relaxing by the roaring ďŹ re. W hile many historical featur features of the inn remain unchanged, Isle Crawfford adopted the restrained-chic aesthetic that she used to revitalise Babington House. Much of the furniture, tableware and textiles were specially commissioned pieces by local suppliers such as Ercol in nearby High Wycombe. The inn bar, ideal ffor or ďŹ reside banter, ser ves local ales,, ploug ploughman ghman’s lunches and hearty, nostalgic dishes. The bar comprises chunky tables,, low beams and a local,, homely feel feel prevails.

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The dining room continues the love aair with the traditional inn concept as ‘warm,, a food’ or ordable and connected to good od food (Ilse Crawfford). The design elements take their inspiration ffrrom local histor y and suppliers. An antler chandelier provides the centrepiece to a dining space furnished with locally produced birch Windsor chairs, irs,, accessorised with sheepskin throws. Tactility and historical touches are key elements,, the ssettles are detailed with geometric. Welsh woollen blankets while the walls whisper with refferences to local legends and ffolklor olklore; olk plates printed with vintage images and woodcuts line the walls while literal historical touches such as ceramic pie birds remain. 22

NOVEMBER2011

p22_BUCKS_OLDBELL__ 16/11/2011 18:12 Page 2

LocaL getaway The main restaurant opens out towards a vast, meadow-style garden, making it an ideal spot for alfresco summer dining, complete with an outdoor summer kitchen. Meanwhile, The Olde Bell’s seasonally inspired menu of traditional and modern British classics is the culinary brainchild of The Olde Bell’s distinguished kitchen triumvirate, executive chef and author, Warren Geraghty, head chef, Andrew West-Letford and pastry chef, Jason Farr. The inn has earned itself a reputation as a foodie retreat with menus that are in keeping with the inn’s essential character, inventive and unfussy. Local suppliers are used for fish and meat and all bread is baked fresh on the premises. In line with his passion for wild food and foraging, Warren has implemented plans to maximise The Olde Bell’s commitment to local produce and nature dictated dining. Since summer 2011, guests and diners have been sampling dishes containing the freshest, home grown ingredients, courtesy of the inn’s very own ‘Kitchen Garden’ and head gardener Mandy Hill. A7;>:717BG E7B6 ;=23@< 4:=C@7A63A

While the design emphasis is on the communal spaces, rooms are spread between the main inn and a collection of barns and outbuildings. The bedrooms mix the old with the new, retaining the simple, pared back feel to the communal areas. Comfortable modern beds covered with woven wool Welsh blankets sit atop traditional reed rugs. Additional room features include a rustic oak trestle, an Anglepoise lamp and a chair upholstered in Windsor suiting. Bathrooms are fitted with drench showers in the doubles and elegant roll top baths (as well as showers) in the suites. 7<< B63 D7::/53

Connected by a ramble of traditional and modern buildings, The Olde Bell’s village-like feel has made it a popular venue for weddings and special occasions. The Tithe Barn and Malt House are licensed to hold civil ceremonies. Meanwhile, the Malt House is available for exclusive hire for very special occasions and includes a dining room and bar, music room complete with grand piano, private garden and personal chef. Among the The Olde Bell’s many unique selling points is its close, 40 minute proximity to London. Meanwhile, Heathrow airport is a mere 15 minute drive making it the ideal resting point for jaded, weary travellers. Located in a genteel, Thames-side village in Berkshire, Hurley itself boasts countless attractions, among them a picturesque, riverside walk and the historic towns of Henley and Marlow. Many rambling trails and nearby outdoor pursuits will satisfy those with a yearning to explore the British countryside at its best. The inn supplies bicycles and picnics upon request that are ideal for guests who wish to take a more strenuous route to exploring the local countryside, stately homes and nearby attractions. =< B63 E30

The Olde Bell’s recently launched website is the perfect tool to whet your appetite before visiting The Olde Bell. Using illustrations drawn by legun, the site perfectly depicts the history, myth and intrigue which surrounds this ancient hostelry. Combining present day photos with a collection of half man – half beast portraits, food news and a blog, the website gives an insight into the coaching inn’s past, present and future. www.theoldebell.co.uk Enjoy three courses o the a la carte menu for £29.50 in The Olde Bell’s restaurant and stay in a Main Inn, Malt House Smaller Bedroom from £130. The Olde Bell, High Street, Hurley, Berkshire, SL6 5LX w: www.theoldebell.co.uk t: 01628 825 881 e: oldebellreception@coachinginn.co.uk NOVEMBER2011 23

OCTAGON NOV_© Fish Media 03/11/2011 20:16 Page 1

p25_BUCKS_LOVEFLOWERS__ 16/11/2011 16:32 Page 1

LocaL Life

Dressing up your home for Christmas T

hink of Christmas day and you have the family over this year. Does your fireplace need dressing or your table need candelabras for a lovely candle lit dinner? Then take a look at our wide selection of vases available for hire! We can fill them with the flowers to match your theme and that suit your home, which will help to set that magical moment for Christmas day… We also have a lovely selection of bespoke holly wreaths and pine wreaths,

WE ALSO HAVE A LOVELY SELECTION OF BESPOKE HOLLY WREATHS AND PINE WREATHS, BEAUTIFULLY DRESSED OR PLAIN FOR YOU TO DRESS YOURSELF

beautifully dressed or plain for you to dress yourself; festive candle arrangements; table centre pieces and a multitude of Christmas products including scented candles, reindeer, lanterns, handmade decorations, chocolates and cards. And, of course, our Nordman Spruce non-drop Christmas trees will soon be arriving. Make sure you pop in to see what other delights are available to dress your home/office or visit our new website (Launching December 1st) and view in ‘’Occasions’’ all our Christmas products and ideas. Phone and book an appointment for one of our design team to create your unique arrangements. 01923 711655

NOVEMBER2011 2 5

p26_BUCKS_SPORTSTRADER__ 16/11/2011 12:38 Page 1

LocAL Life

CYNTHIA’S PHOTOGRAPHY ‘IN SYNC WITH YOUNGSTERS’

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ward-winning Berkhamsted photographer Cynthia Nolan has been hired by BBC Sports Personality of the Year’s Unsung Hero Lance Haggith because of the unique psychological insight she can bring to photographing disadvantaged youngsters. Cynthia, owner of Shoot Me Studios in Lower Kings Road, has been recruited as the official photographer for Sports Traider, a charity founded by Lance to provide sporting and employment opportunities for disabled, vulnerable and disaffected youngsters. “It’s a great honour to be given this opportunity to help and contribute to what is a fantastic cause,” said mum-of-two Cynthia, 37, from Northchurch. “I’m really looking forward to working and engaging with young people who could be the players, coaches and enthusiasts of the future. It’s all about trust, respect and making these youngsters feel valued and part of the process.” Lance, from Bedford, won the BBC Sports Unsung Hero Award last December for his 30-year dedication to basketball coaching and charity work supporting youngsters’ participation in sport. Sports Traider currently has three charity shops in Luton, Bedford and Leicester, with another eight - including one in Watford – opening next year. The shops sell second-hand and new sports kit at affordable prices, with the proceeds funding grass-roots sports coaching, access to facilities, transport and support for children and young people. Lance said: “We’re very “on news” after the trouble with the recent riots but having like-minded people and 26

NOVEMBER2011

companies on board is key to rolling out this project nationally. “I’m delighted to have found Cynthia. She has a natural empathy, passion and belief in our project and an approach which I think the kids will really respond to. “Many photographers would find it very difficult to relate to the kind of children we’re working with, but with Cynthia’s unique skill set and psychological insights, she’ll be able to get on their wavelength and produce pictures that embody who and what we are that can perfectly illustrate our message.” Cynthia, who launched Shoot Me Studios in July, specialises in boudoir, lifestyle, fashion, portraiture and family photography but has a distinct “non-directive” approach informed by a Masters degree in psychology. By “tuning into” client’s feelings and giving them the freedom to express their emotions naturally through their body language, she gets results, she claims, which give greater insight into their genuine character. “A photographer who tells a client what to do is naturally dominant, and the client submissive,” she explains. “The key to producing a good photograph is being equal and giving people the confidence to be themselves.” Cynthia will produce all Sports Traider’s

Cynthia (far right) beside football legend Patrick Vieira, fashion designer Karen Millen and Unsung Hero Lance Haggith

Cynthia with Bedford MP Richard Fuller

photographic publicity material, including future shop openings and launch parties. Her first assignment was a star-studded reception to highlight Sports Traider’s work and roll out its national launch at the House of Commons Terrace Pavilion on 20th October, which was hosted by TV News presenter John Stapleton, Lance and MP for Bedford, Richard Fuller. Among the guests were football legend Patrick Vieira and fashion designer Karen Millen. For more information call Shoot Me Studios on 01442 869099 or visit www.shootmestudios.co.uk

PAGE 00_Š Fish Media 07/06/2010 14:42 Page 1

p28_BUCKS_SKATING__ 16/11/2011 16:13 Page 1

festive days out

Get your

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This festive season, shop and skate at London’s shiny new shopping centre, WestďŹ eld Stratford City. The new east London version of WestďŹ eld London, WestďŹ eld Stratford East, enjoys its ďŹ rst Christmas this year. To celebrate, WestďŹ eld Stratford East welcomes you to its open-air ice-rink, with great views of the Olympic Park. A calendar of special ice events will kick o with a spectacular Christmas Light Switch On to gear London up for the festive season and as the ice rink is open beyond the Big Day, there’s no need for the post-Christmas blues. 28

NOVEMBER2011

This winter add a little sparkle to your Christmas visit, as the iconic London Eye presents it’s very own, open air ice skating rink in the shadow of the world’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel situated on the Southbank in the heart of London. By day guests can enjoy the breathtaking views of this feat of engineering and by night festive lighting will provide the perfect atmosphere to have some fun with friends, family and colleagues alike. Open 7 days a week. Book online at www.londoneye.com or at the onsite ticket oďŹƒce.

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Feel the cold tingle of London’s crisp winter air, listen to the music, and take in the incomparable surroundings as you glidearound the rink in the moat of one of London’s most iconic landmarks. Whether you pop along with friends during your lunchtime, plan a romantic date or decide to make a day of it at this world-famous fortiďŹ cation, the Tower of London Ice Rink is one of the coolest locations for winter fun with a group of friends or a festive family gathering. With one of the most beautiful skating settings in London the awesome battlements of the Tower of London provide a magniďŹ cent backdrop for the ice-cool skating season. Book online at www. toweroondonicerink.com or call See on 0844 871 8814

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Glide round the shops this Christmas! WestďŹ eld London will be cooler than ever as an ice rink takes over the Atrium. The rink is made with real ice and it’s indoors so you don’t have to worry about the weather! The Atrium is transformed into a winter wonderland complete with a Santa’s grotto and Christmas lights. Get your skates on! Book online at http:// uk.westďŹ eld.com or call the box oďŹƒce on 0871 330 8077.

p28_BUCKS_SKATING__ 16/11/2011 16:13 Page 2

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Winter Wonderland celebrates its 5th year with a magical new Ice Rink. The ice rink will be given a new home and will surround the Victorian Band Stand, creating a beautiful centre piece for Winter Wonderland. Stretching over 1,350m2, the outdoor rink will be the biggest of its kind in the UK. It will take 10 days to build using 100,035 litres of water which will be frozen at -12c so you can feel the cold tingle of the crisp winter air, listen to the music and take in the festive surroundings as you glide around the rink in London’s Hyde Park Winter Wonderland. Book online at www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

This year Teatime with Tiany combines tea-dance music with live ice-dance displays and delicious treats. Children will be enchanted by Storytelling beside the Tiany Christmas Tree. Improve your ďŹ tness with the Big Ice Dance lunchtime sessions. Experience the unique atmosphere of open-air clubbing, on and o the ice, to a soundtrack curated by prominent DJs, iconic clubs and trend-setting festivals at one of the Club Nights. Whatever the time or occasion, the Somerset House Ice Rink is the ultimate London winter destination for everyone! Book online at www.somersethouse.org or call Ticketmaster on 0844 847 1520

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For a thoroughly regal iceskating experience this winter, head to Hampton Court Palace ice rink. Oering a great view of the palace’s spectacular Tudor façade, the ice rink beats skating round an indoor rink any day! Hampton Court Palace has a fascinating history and was once home to England’s most famous (and infamous!) King, Henry VIII.Besides skating, there’s plenty to see at the Hampton Court Palace, including Henry VIII’s State Apartments, the vast Tudor Kitchens and the topiary Maze. Book online at www.hamptoncourticerink.com

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The Natural History Museum Ice Rink is London’s superior skating experience. Set within the lawns of the Natural History Museum, the Ice Rink will oer an array of entertainment and events for all ages, plus a lovely Cafe Bar where guests can warm up in the most cosmopolitan and cosy fashion. For those who don’t wish to take to the ice, but want to soak up the festive fun and stunning surroundings, the stylish Cafe Bar will oer sumptuous food, drinks and entertainment for all to enjoy. Book online at www.nhm.ac.uk or call the 24-hour Ticketmaster hotline on 0844 847 1576.

Open 7 days a week and located in the magniďŹ cent setting of Canada Square Park, surrounded by Canary Wharf ’s world famous towers. The park will again be decked in festive lighting transforming the estate into a winter wonderland, oering the ďŹ nest facility for outdoor ice skating and entertainment in the Capital. Festive music and drink will add to the winter atmosphere. Book online at www.ticketmaster.co.uk or call Ticketmaster on 0844 847 1556

NOVEMBER2011 29

p30_BUCKS_TOPGEAR__ 16/11/2011 16:15 Page 1

festive days out

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illed as ‘ The ultimate Top Gear exper exp ience’, visitors can expect all the on-screen,, supercharged excitement of the TV show rolled into one event,, with the famous presenting trio of Clarkson,, Hammond and Maayy previously seen in the TopGearLive action arena now spilling out into the rest of the event. At the centre of the new format is the new Top eaturing Gear indoor track ffeatur ea highlights fr f rom the TV show including Stig power laps and Star in a reasonably priced car as well as the Top Gear Stunt Team,, hea he d-toheads and supercar parades. Other highlights will include a re-creation of the famous Top Gear studio stu , special tributes to Top Gear’s greatest challenges and some of the more creative and famous machiner y featur featur e ed in the programme over the years. 30

NOVEMBER2011

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Following ng the huge success off the TopGearL opGearLive global tourr,, the UK U is for mat to be to debut an exciting new for showcased this month.

To cater for for the scale of the event and activities, vities,, show organisers have moved to the 100-acre ExCel London venue in Docklands. Commercial Director of TopGearLive, James Cooke-Priest,, said said: ‘ The idea is simple - to create the ultimate motoring event in the spirit of Top Gear G ’. Tickets start at just ÂŁ49. For more inffor ormation about the show or to book tickets visit www w.topg .topgearlive.co.uk or call 0871 230 5588. To keep up-to-date date and ffor or the chance to win exclusive behind the scenes experiences, keep an eye on facebook.com/ TopGearLiveUK, Twittter @T TopGearLi opGearLiveUK and www.topggearrlive.co.uk TopGearLive is a joint venture bettw ween BBC Worldwide and Brand Events Ltd,, who are running the event in the UK jointly with Clarion Events Ltd. O ering a variation on more traditional motor shows TopGearLive brings the spirit of the TV programme to the live events arena allowing fans to immerse themselves in their passion for for Top G Gear and motoring in general. Starring Jeremy Clarkson,, James J Maayy and Richard Hammond the event featur features an indoor track,, exhibition and Live Action Arena. TopGearLiv op e has been running world tours since 2008 entertaining over 1 million visitors.

Ad_Master_Layout 1 16/09/2011 08:04 Page 1

Ad_Master_Layout 1 14/09/2011 11:07 Page 1

p33_BUCKS_EQUESTRIAN__ 16/11/2011 16:19 Page 1

festive days out

Tickets now on sale for the world’s best

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elebrating nearly 40 years of world class equestrian sport,, Olympia, The London International Horse Show is introducing a brand new Extreme Driving competition to its coveted event ffor ormat ffor or 2011 2011. The new indoor carriage driving competition will see the world’s best ffour our in-hand or the drivers battling it outt ffor title on the evening of Thursdaay 15th and the affter ternoon of Fridaay 16th December Decembe .

Renowned for for immense im speed and precision, the driving competition will ffeatur ea e eatur marathon-style obstacles and pairs of cones,, which drivers navigate against the clock. To mark the London Olympia debut,, three of the world’s best will take part including Boyd Exell,, Ijsbrand Chardon and Koos de Ronde. F lying the ag ffor or Great Britain Pippa Bassett,, will also take part with her team of Lipizzaners - an entr y that is sure to get the support of the home crowd.

This year’s equestrian extravaganza kicks o with the Reem Acra FEI World Cup Dressage Q ualiďŹ er. With Britain, and particularly Carl Hester

and Laura Bechtolsheimer, winning recent top dressage competitions,, this will provide a good indication of Britain’’s abilittyy to go for for gold in 2012. Jumping classes and highlights include the Alltech Christmas Puissance, The Rolex FEI Wor o ld Cup Qu ualiďŹ er and The Olympia Grand Prix. Olympia favourites, The Kennel Club Dog Agilittyy, The Shetland Pony Grand National and the eature Christmas Finale will ffeatur in all jumping performances f rom Thursdaay 15th to . Mondaay 19th December Dec Billed as ‘the world’s best equestrian Christmas party ’,, there will also be an Olympia Christmas Finale supported by The Hilton, London,, Olympia complete with Father Christmas on a sleigh,, carol singers and lots of uy white snow. Visitors can also stock ts and up on Christmas giffts equestrian goodies courtesy of the Shopping Village. The retail experience will be open ffrrom Wednesda edneesdaay 14th at 1pm and then ever y daayy f rom 10am till close with 200 shops and stalls selling items ranging ffrrom ffood, ood, giffts,, homeware, clothing, art, jeweller y and much more. Tickets for for Olympia, The London International Horse Show, are priced bettw ween ÂŁ21 - ÂŁ55 with discounts available for for groups, ps,, seniors and children. Tickets include entrance to the Shopping Village but these can also be purchased separately without a show ticket for for only ÂŁ10. For F or further inffor ormation and a conďŹ rmed programme off events please visit www. olympiahorseshow.com. For tickets, call the box oďŹƒce on 0871 230 5580.

NOVEMBER2011 33

p34_BUCKS_HYDEPARK__ 16/11/2011 16:18 Page 1

festive days out

Hyde Park

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he UK’s most spectacular winter event returns for the 5th year running witth FREE admission and even more entertainment and new attractions. Since its launch in 2007, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland has attracted a staggering 8 million visitors, ďŹ rmly becoming the Capital’s most popular and dazzling winter event. With beautifully decorated attractions set out across 20 acres of historic parkklland, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland provides festive fun over seven weeks. Celebrittyy fans including Prince Harrr y, Kate Moss, Claudia Schi er & Matthew Vaughn, Chris Martin, Tom Cruise, Alexandra Burke, Fearne Cotton and Liz Hurley have all been spotted enjoying Winter Wonderland’s ffestivities. estivit estivities. This year, PWR Events and The Royal Parks are delighted to announce that

34

NOVEMBER2011

the ice rink will be given a new home and wiill ll surround the Victorian Band Stand, creatting a beautiful centre piece ffor or Winter Wonderland. Stretching over 1,350m2, the outdoor rink will be the biggest of its kind in the UK. It will takee 10 dayys to build using 100,035 litrres of watter which will be ffrrozen at -12c. At night the ice rink will be transformed, as suspended abovve th he rink will be 108,000 pea-lights illuminating the ice, creating a magical skaters. atmosphere ffor or skate Other attractions making a return include the Giant Obser vation Wheel and the beautiful Angels Christmas Market, featuring ov oveer one hundred wooden chalets o ering unusual and handmade gifts. A number of stalls will also feature trraditionall Christmas items such as wooden toys,, nativity scenes and decorations. Last year

Father Christmas handed out over 50,000 presents to well behavved children, and he will l make a welcome returrn this year as an ever popular ffrree attraction. The UK’s favourite, Zippos Circus, also returns with two completely new shows – a daayyytime time show ffor o all the or family, Zippos Christmas Circus starring Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer

and f riends, and an evening show ffor or older thrill seekers, Zippos Cirque Extreme. For thrill seekers ever yyw where, Cirque Extreme is a jaw dropping, dar d edevil show combining some of the most thrilling and dangerous acts the world of circus has to o er er. Top of the bill is the Motorbike Globe of Death, a beyond-thrilling spectacle starring th hree Brazilians riding together at up to 60mph in an unbelievably smalll steel globe. There will be perilous aerial work on the High Wire and Trapeze, deatth-deffyying antics on the rapidly-rotating steel Wheel of Death h, reckklless chainsaw juggling, thrilling ďŹ re acts and electrifying break dancing. There will be more bars, cafes & restaurrants, including the new Carousel Bar, which rotates gently whilst you sip yourr mulled wine, and the Bavarian Village where you’ ll ďŹ nd Brattwurst, wurst,, bars bar and live music. In addition, there will also be the authentic Spiegel Saloon sittuated within a stunning ballroom,, with its cosy booth hs, tables and chairs and cabaret acts. There will be three new and exhilaraating thrill rides in the Alpine Adventure area alongside the ever popular Christmas Paower Tower, Ch Coaster, Avalanche and Skkii Jump Swing as well as more traditional rides and games. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is a fantastic day out ffor or everyone, so be sure to book your tickets earrly and make Winter Wonderland part of yyour our Christmas tradition.

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p36_BUCKS_COVENTGDN__ 16/11/2011 16:22 Page 1

festive days out

A VERY COVENT GARDEN CHRISTMAS

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nown n ffor or delivering unique cultural experiences and ďŹ rsts, Covent e Garden has partnered with award winning director and visual v artist Martha Fiennes’’ SLOimage to create ‘Natiivittyy ’,, the world’s ďŹ rst animated nativitty-scene y-scene, to be b displ pla laayed on the Piazza. Completely self-generating the ke mesmerising technological art-work slowly changes,, keeping mayy viewers wondering ass to what maayy happen next,, who ma become part of the narrative, whether it might rain or snow, or even transfform into a magical night-time scene. Situated in the heart of Covent Garden’’s traďŹƒc-ff ree shopping area, ‘Nativity ’ will be joined by a Christmas shopping ing fr f rom extravaganza - ‘ The Twelve Treats of Christmas.’ Running 1st - 12th December the activity will be centred around a Snow Globe installation on the West Piazza. Lucky shoppers will be o ered a chance to enter the Snow Globe and catch tickets to win a range of prizes ffrrom watches,, to shoes to holidaayys - all combining to make Covent Garden the most interesting and fun shopping destination in London this Christmas. A gold coin donation to enter the Snow Globe will beneďŹ t Covent Garden’’s Christmas charittyy partner, the Teenage Cancer Trust. A hand-picked,, British grown Christmas tree will light up the West Piazza,, whilst w a 15fftt topiar y reindeer will be the centre piece of the East Piazza. Giant red baubles and mirror balls will ďŹ ll the halls of the Market Building,

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and new ffestoo estoon lighting will illuminate the arches. Keeping the seasonal cheer, carol singing fr f rom some of London’s best-loved choirs will return to Covent Garden and the family favourite, live reindeer petting, will be taking place each Saturdaay. The locally loved Real Food Market f rom 24th will also be getting a Christmas makeover and fr November will be open ffrrom Thursdaay - Saturdayy. Rugby Ralph Lauren’s famous Tweed Run will also be kicking o ffrrom Covent Garden on the morning of 26th November. A seasonal favourite in New York City, the event will see over 400 ttw weed wearing cyclists do a lap of the Piazza beffor ore heading o on their leisurely jaunt around London. Gathering outside the Rugby Ralph Lauren store on King Street at 9am it is a sight not to be missed. Bev Churchill,, Co C vent Garden London Brand Director, said: “Christmas is alwayys a beautiful time to be in Covent Garden. W hether it ’s the quietness of the ‘Nativittyy ’ the th h fun and theatre of the Snow Globe, or the piping hot cider cide and mince pies ffrrom the Real Food Market,, the neighbour neighbou hood o ers something for foor ever yone this Christmas.â€? Martha Fiennes,, creator of ‘Nativity ’ comments: ‘Covent Garden provides wonderful fr f ree world-class cultural content and I’m delighted that it has chosen the Nativity to be its Christmas installation. It ’s thrilling to have direct contact with a huge

p36_BUCKS_COVENTGDN__ 16/11/2011 16:22 Page 2

festive days out public audience, as Covent Garden enjoys very high footfall over this period. We are honoured to be giving the world premiere of the artwork in this prestigious venue.� G=C 1/< /:A= 3<8=G /1@=AA B63 43AB7D3 >3@7=2(

Every Saturday from 12th November, Covent Garden Piazza will be filled with the sound of festive music as some of London’s best loved choirs sing traditional Christmas carols Covent Garden Christmas Food Market: From 27th November - 24th December the awardwinning Covent Garden Real Food Market will be in the Piazza from Thursday to Saturday each week, from 10:30am - 8pm Thursday and Friday and 10:30am - 6:00pm Saturday, selling special Christmas foodie treats. Apple Market: The historic Covent Garden Apple Market, home of the best of the UK’s handmade crafts and collectibles will be selling unique Christmas gifts every day in the Market Building from 10:30am - 6:30pm The Twelve Treats of Christmas: From 1st - 12th December, spend £100 in participating stores and win the chance to go in Covent Garden’s snow globe. Inside the lifesized snow globe, lucky shoppers will have a chance to win exclusive prizes from chocolates to holidays Reindeer Petting: Reindeer petting will return to the Covent Garden Piazza, every Saturday from 12th November from 12pm - 5pm, creating a perfect family picture opportunity

NOVEMBER2011 37

p38_BUCKS_VIVALAVIDA__ 16/11/2011 16:27 Page 1

festive days out

D7D D/ / :/ D72/ Paul McGi McGinle inleeyy will lead tributes esterros os to Seve Ballester at a star-stud uddded celebrration of his liffee

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yder Cup legend Paul McGinley will paayy tribute to his beloved team mate at a star-studded evening in aid of the Seve Ballesteros Foundation in partnership with Cancer Research UK. The annual agship event Viva La Vida will be held to mark the end of the 2011 golďŹ ng season and help raise vital funds for brain cancer research. ‘ Viva la V ida’’ which translates as ‘Live thee liffee’ will be a celebration and commemoration of Seve Ballesteros and the legacy he lefft behind. Unseen ffootag ootage of Seve will be screened d ffor or the ďŹ rst time and some of Seve’s ffrriends will provide moving insights into his liffe and career. The event will also include top entertainment, ďŹ ne dining, a money-can’tbuy auction and will be attended by top personalities fr f rom the world 38

NOVEMBER2011

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of sport,, music and screen. Paul McGinley, an ambassador ffor or Viva La Vida and Seve’s team mate for for 15 years,, said: “Seve was an inspirational man both on and o the golf course. I am truly honoured to be an ambassador ffor or his oďŹƒcial tribute event, Viva la V ida,, which will help raise money ffor or Seve’s Foundation in aid of Cancer Research UK. ‘He more than anybody was responsible for for bringing me to the game. ‘I’ ll alwaays remember Seve ffor or his compassion,, personality and dedication and am looking for ward to honouring and forgettable celebrating his unfforg career and liffee through this fantastic event.’

¡¡D7D/ :/ D7D/ :/ D 72/¸ E6716 D72/¸ E6716 B @/<A:/B3A B@/<A:/B3A / /A ¡:7D3 B63 A ¡:7D3 B63 :743¸ E7:: 03 / : 743¸ E7:: 03 / 13:30@/B7=< /<2 1 3:30@/B7=< /<2 1 =;;3;=@/B7=< 1=;;3;=@/B7=< = 4 A3D3 =4 A3D3 In 2009,, Seve Ballesteros set up his Foundation in partnership with Cancer Research UK with the aim of being the biggest funder of brain cancer research in the UK. The Foundatio Foun oundation has already raised more than ÂŁ1.5 million towards vital research. This event marks the continuation of Seve’s legacy and his ďŹ ght to ďŹ nd a cure ffor or brain cancer. Ivan Ballesteros,, Seve’s nephew and manager, said: “Seve’s determination to help others through his Foundation has been truly inspirational. By attending V iva la Vida you will not only experience unique insights into Seve’s liffee, you’ ll also be helping keep his legacy alive by funding vital research into brain cancer.â€?

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p40_BUCKS_TREEFORLIFE__ 16/11/2011 16:28 Page 1

festive feature

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NOVEMBER2011

his year make your Christmas tree count more than usual. If you live in or near London, you can buy a tree ffrrom The Christmas Forest - London’s largest and most ethical independent ‘treetailer’ with seven sites across London and a new internet shop. Ever y Christmas tree you buyy, a new tree is planted by Tree Aid on the Forests ffor or Food project in Affrrica. Since 2006, The Christmas Forest has donated over ÂŁ60,000 towards Tree Aid’s planting projects - that ’s over 70,000 new trees planted and man nyy more families are thriving. The project works with some of the poorest people on an liffee for for earth and trees mean many of these Affrricans. Living with the e ects ects of extreme poverttyy made worse by climate change, villagers are learning how to raise and care for for trees thanks to Tree Aid. Trees are not only good ffor or the en nvir vironment but also ffor or people. Trees es offten ten sur vive when other crops

fail so families can rely on a sustainable, nutritious variety of ffoods oods includingg fr f ruit,, nuts and even leaves and owers. Trees give shade and shelter, al food ffor or animals,, natur n medicines,, tools and fuel. “ The money we have received has been a liffeline eline for Affrrican families using trees to battle poverty and climate changeâ€?,, saayys Tonyy Hill,, Programme Director at Tree Aid. For the last twelve yyears, ears, Kelty Caston has been running the Christmas Forest and has become the biggest supplier of Christmas trees in London. His sustainably-sourced trees are cut in late November and early December, so you can be sure they are ffrresh and at their best. ‘Although ever y tree we source is replaced by another at a tree plantation,, I wanted to go further. Tree Aid really impressed me. In Britain we appreciate trees for their beauttyy ke them ffor or but perhaps we take granted: in Affrrica trees really .’ do mean liffee for for people pe This year you you can shop online and have a beautiful tree delivered to your door www.christmasfforest.co.uk

LandWanted

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for luxury homes & apartments G IN M ON CO SO

Land is in great demand in prime locations like Berkhamsted, Amersham, Chorleywood, Rickmansworth, Gerrards Cross, Beaconsfield and Marlow. The Land Office helps land owners negotiate good deals with developers and we can help find the right buyer and work with land owners from the very start. Free Initial Appraisal and Consultation • Land sold to Developers There are many different approaches to selling your valuable development site each with different merits and pitfalls. Our initial meeting can focus on the most advantageous strategy for your circumstances. All matters are respected as confidential and your concerns and time scale are respected throughout.

Call us today and arrange your free land appraisal In many cases, land owners prefer our developer contacts to seek planning at their own expense so you can remain free from costs and planning expenses Lance Trendall

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01582 461581 EXPERIENCE • INTEGRITY • ENTHUSIASM

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p42_BUCKS_IDBESPOKETAILORING__ 16/11/2011 11:38 Page 1

fashion

bespoke YOUR iD W

ith their fitting room in the heart of Gerrards Cross, Sue & Liz of ID Bespoke Tailoring are unashamedly trying to charm their way in to every man’s (and woman’s) wardrobe this Christmas. There is just no substitute for style, as is evidenced by this year’s most unexpected fashion icon Take That and X-Factor’s Gary Barlow, who has become well known for his well-cut, stylish suits, perfectly matched with shirts and ties which complement

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the look. What Gary (and, no doubt his stylist) knows is that this look is ageless, timeless and suits everyone. You’ll never feel embarrassed to look back at old photos of yourself dressed this way and, best of all; ladies of all ages love the look! So, how do you tap in to Gary’s secret style? Well, that’s where Sue and Liz step in. Between them they have 12 years’ experience of dressing men of all ages, shapes and sizes and have many loyal and satisfied clients who will attest to their magical abilities to help them look their very best. Just visit their website at www.idbespoke.co.uk to read the glowing testimonials. Will all of this require Gary Barlow’s bank balance? Absolutely not say Sue & Liz the essence of a great suit is in the cut and we have the very best tailors working for us who ensure that very suit, garment or shirt is produced to the most exacting standards. Beyond that it’s the cloth that

basically dictates the cost and we have a huge range and variety of fabrics but, whether you choose one of our highly cost effective lightweight wools or something more esoteric, like Ermenigildo Zegna’s finest wool, wool/cashmere or linens, you will be guaranteed a head turning outfit that will make you look and feel special. Sue says, ‘ Liz and I believe that men can benefit from a female prospective on their style choices. We certainly know what ladies like and enjoy helping our clients to select the styles that will present them to their very best advantage’. Whatever you choose, a suit, a jacket, trousers, overcoat or perhaps a beautifully tailored shirt, Sue & Liz guarantee a unique memorable and above all, fun experience which would make a wonderful Christmas treat for someone special in your life. That does include ladies too, because they offer the full range of

p42_BUCKS_IDBESPOKETAILORING__ 16/11/2011 11:38 Page 2

‘

fashion

When Markus and I announced our civil partnership we knew immediately that we wanted our suits to be individual yet complimentary. Sue & Liz were amazing in listening to our ideas, helping us choose the right fabric and more importantly helped us create suits that matched our individual sizes and shapes. They gave us excellent advise on everything from our shoes to our socks, delivered fantastically tailored shirts and took into account everything from the colour of our flowers to the dresses of our grooms maids. They were critical in helping us pull off a look that was both classic and contemporary and that fitted perfectly with our Tuscan wedding. From our first meeting we knew that we were in good hands and the final results were stunning.

’

Simon Crossley

tailoring services for female styles as well… There is nothing Sue & Liz enjoy more than helping grooms and the grooms party look their absolute best! Liz says ‘We love weddings and have dressed many grooms, the whole process from the minute they step in to the fitting room and then 4-6 weeks later when they arrive to try on the completed look is fun and enjoyable’. Over a glass of bubbly or a good cup of coffee often with the bride in tow, the ID Bespoke team will discuss, style, colour, fabric as well as finer details like the colour of the brides/bridesmaid dresses, the bouquet etc., then get busy with the measuring tape and camera. So whether your special day is in a church, castle, on a beach, or in foreign splendour, tell Sue & Liz your plans and they will do the rest to make sure you look and feel fantastic on your special day. No matter whether it’s your first interview or taking your place on the Board. Sue & Liz can help you put together the perfect suit. If you spend a lot of time sitting, in a car, the tube, meetings or flying it is imperative that you choose the right cloth, not a problem with the ID teams experienced eye So, whether it be, wedding, business, smart casual, racing, regattas, winter coats and jackets, fabulous dinner suits or stunning shirts, look no further! www. Idbespoke.co.uk or ring Sue & Liz on 01753 892655.

ONE STOP CHRISTMAS SHOPPING This Christmas enjoy ‘one stop shopping’ from the comfort of your own home, follow our blog for great Christmas stocking fillers ideas. However, instead of you trying to guess what that special someone would like, why not download e-vouchers direct from our website and let them choose what they would like in our fitting room anytime that suits them (before or after the 25th) and guarantee them a stylish New Year! NOVEMBER2011 43

p44_BUCKS_AD_VARIOUS__ 16/11/2011 17:07 Page 1

CURVE

Simply Beautiful Clothes Curve provides an imaginative collection of original, beautiful clothes and accessories in a charming Grade II listed boutique. You’ll find a mix of contemporary labels and exclusive unknowns in dress sizes 6 to 16. Monday – Saturday 9:30am – 5.00pm Evenings by prior appointment

Where to find us

On the roundabout at the corner of Wendover High Street and Aylesbury Road A413 (car park in the High Street) 2 Aylesbury Road, Wendover, Bucks HP22 6JQ T: 01296 620623

T: 01296 620623 ) 01296 623222 H info@curvewendover.co.uk www.curvewendover.co.uk

Indulge

Specialists in lingerie & swimwear

Handbags & Gladrags Sale Incorporating:

Labels of Amersham

12 The Broadway, Old Amersham, Buckinghamshire HP7 0HP

in aid of Florence Nightingale Hospice Saturday 3rd December 2011 Thame Town Hall Thame For the perfect gift this year, choose from our carefully selected collections. We have an extensive range of chic and exquisite lingerie and nightwear. Enjoy the experience in a warm and friendly atmosphere, where our staff are happy to help and advise. 12 Market Square Old Amersham Bucks HP7 0DQ

Tel: 01494 728994

10am– 4pm To book a stall or sell your items on a 50/50 basis contact: Wendy Everett 01296-429975 or email: wendyeverett@fnhospice.org.uk Registered Charity No. 1119499

p45_BUCKS_BEACSFINEJEWELLERY__ 16/11/2011 13:37 Page 1

fashion

FALL IN LOVE WITH MESSIKA

B

eaconsfield Fine Jewellery, although still less than a year old, remains a guiding light, in the vast world of fine Jewellery. Peter, Tim and the team at the shop, located in Beaconsfield’s Old town, have spent this year bringing together some of the finest brands from around the world, to create a unique and eye-opening experience from the moment you see their exquisite window. We caught up with Peter, to tell us more about why he chose the highly exclusive, Parisian brand, Messika, to feature in the shop. “I first fell in love with Messika, a few years ago at a trade show. I loved the simplicity of each piece, yet its ability to make a real statement, through exceptional craftsmanship and truly unique design. Every range they produce simply exudes femininity and elegance”. Messika is a brand that is more than just beautiful pieces of Jewellery. It is a family legacy, and the story of Messika, goes some way to explaining the magic behind the brand. It is the story of a passion passed on from a father to his daughter and shared with all lovers of the most precious of all stones: the diamond. A merchant at heart, André Messika took just two decades to conquer rue La Fayette, the stronghold of Parisian diamond dealers. His daughter Valérie was, from her earliest years surrounded by the poetry of jewellery. Her inventiveness and restless imagination led her to choose a creative path. With her father’s approval, she embarked on a new venture: to create a true Jewellery house. This closeness and mutual respect between father and daughter give to each Messika’s piece of jewellery a unique and strong identity. It is a hymn to the sublime cut of the diamond, flirting with countless

pleasure declaration and declamation of envy and beauty. On a more sober note, yet without sacrificing anything, the pleasure of illumination remains. First of all there is the pleasure that the jewel provides each day. It is a secret pleasure given by the sliding of a ring onto the finger each morning, or the slipping of a bracelet onto the wrist. With “trendy” jewels, the contact of gold on the skin becomes a new form of pleasure, one made of fantasy and of the desire to amuse oneself. In the image of the Butterfly Garden necklace or the Cage Move bracelet- which have already become centerpieces of the recently created company- the generous lines, sensual and subtle structures have made these jewels true fashion accessories. With the “Move” collection, comes a true success story of a skillful blend of femininity and personality: three moving diamonds trapped in the narrow opening of a curved casing. Playful and chic, the “Move” range of jewellery – bracelets, necklaces, and rings – has become emblematic of the trend for wearing jewellery close to the skin, a tendency that has been eagerly adopted by fashion addicts. Available in diamond-pavé and non-pavé versions, the “Move” range has something to suit every budget. With Beaconsfield Fine Jewellery, being one of a very small number of UK stockists, a piece of Messika Jewellery, remains a highly exclusive gift for a loved one or just a well deserved treat for yourself. 52 London End, Old Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire HP9 2JH Tel: 01494 677 782 Email: sales@beaconsfieldfinejewellery.com NOVEMBER2011 45

p46_BUCKS_INDULGE__ 16/11/2011 11:39 Page 1

fashion

Indulge yourself ituated adjacent to the market square in the heart of the historic and picturesque town of old Amersham, Indulge has received a warm welcome since opening in the summer of this year. Although this chic boutique is new, it has a wealth of experience behind it. Owner, Sally Hyde has been in the retail industry selling lingerie, swimwear and fashion for over thirty years. Many of you may remember her as founder and owner of Bo Peep in Gerrards Cross, before selling the business in 2000. Indulge recognizes that beautiful lingerie makes every woman feel her best. To this end, the standard at the store has been set extremely high offering a wide range of styles from very carefully chosen stock. New and unusual labels are constantly sourced from several countries ensuring your shopping experience at Indulge is always different and exciting. They are complimented by the more familiar labels such as one of Italy’s finest, Cotton Club which has excelled again this

S

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Christmas with their glamorous, chic “crescentini” range of underwear with exquisite diamante detail. Those who prefer the more traditional style without compromising glamour will not be disappointed with the beautiful lace and fine detail of this season’s ranges from French brands, Empreinte, Chantal Thomass and éprise. If you are looking for a high fashion, designer statement then the ultra trendy Marlies Dekker will look good this Christmas. All collections are chosen for their quality, with no compromise on fit and support, the aim being to compliment the individual figure and personality of each client. Sizes 30 to 38, A to G cup are available, although this is dependent on individual ranges. Magic fashion foundation wear has proved very popular creating the perfect smooth look under close fitting clothes. A wide range of these items in all sizes are held in stock. For the ultimate luxury in nightwear, MC Lounge and Cotton Club provide elegance and style in silk.

Indulge also stocks swim and cruise wear all year. The first of the new season’s fabulously stylish cruise wear has just arrived with more to follow in the coming months. 1st December is late night shopping in Old Amersham, why not pop in and enjoy a complimentary glass of wine with us to celebrate the festive season while you shop. Whether you are looking to buy a gift or treat yourself Indulge is sure to have something to suit everyone. All staff are qualified in bra fitting with an equal passion to offer a warm and

friendly service. Gentlemen, 15th December is for men only from 17.30 – 21.00hrs. Enjoy a complimentary glass of wine while choosing the perfect gift for that special person. Gift wrapping is available. For your exclusive invitation call Indulge on 01494 728994. Indulge is supporting breast cancer charities and has a bra bank in store. Please support this worthy cause and help women all over the world by recycling unwanted bras. Follow Indulge on Facebook and Twitter, website is currently work in progress. 12 Market Square Old Amersham HP7 0DQ Tel: 01494 728994

p47_BUCKS_AD_VARIOUS__ 17/11/2011 09:13 Page 1

R      S

T

JEWELLERS

Roy S. Tompkins FINE JEWELLERS Put some Celebrity sparkle in your stocking this Christmas with this years most popular selling Bracelet. Our Bracelets are hand made in London, set with the finest quality Swarovski crystals.

Roy. S. Tompkins Jewellers established in 1976, fine jewellery, quality repairs and renovation of antique jewellery using the latest laser welding technology with most repairs done on site the same day.

We also stock a large range of pre-owned Jewellery Charter Place, Watford, Herts WD17 2RN 01923 239090 • 07850 647702 www.jewellers-watford.co.uk In association with yummymummyjewellery.co.uk

p48_BUCKS_AD_VARIOUS__ 16/11/2011 15:16 Page 1

Bridge Dental Surgeries is a large, private, family dental practice situated near the centre of Marlow, established since 1988. We offer all forms of routine dental treatment as well as dental implants and cosmetic work, in a modern, relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Our team of dentists and hygienists are here to look after your dental healthcare. We recognize the importance of instilling good oral hygiene habits in children and offer the young free dental health checks along with discounted fees for students. Dr David P Harris BDS (Director ) Associates Dr Beverly Eastwood BDS Dr Raghu Neppalli BDS. MFGDP Dr Angela Emery BDS Mr S Moore BDS. MSc. FDS. RCS.

32 Station Road, Marlow, Bucks SL7 1NE

Open late evenings and Saturday mornings Car parking at rear of buliding • Disabled access and ground floor surgeries

Email: BridgeDSurgeries@aol.com Web: www.Bridge-Dental.co.uk

01628 474 044

Jackson Jewellers !

Make it a Christmas Christmas to to remember remember ne piece piece of urchasing a fi by purchasing fine jewellery jewellery experts. from the the experts. from customers for elping customers Helping 135 years. years.! 135 !

16 16 The The Parade Parade Watford Watford Herts.WD17 1AA 1AA Herts.WD17 01923 232449 njewellers www.jackson www.jacksonjewellers.com Established 1876 1876 Established

!

p49_BUCKS_LABELS__ 16/11/2011 13:35 Page 1

fashion

AVOID THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE OF THE CITY - VISIT LABELS HANDBAGS & GLADRAGS FANTASTIC ONE DAY SALE

for one Day only F

or one day only, exclusive designer dress agency, Labels of Amersham, part of the Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity’s retail arm, is holding a special HANDBAGS & GLADRAGS SALE – a chance to bag designer bargains at rock bottom prices. The event, taking place in Thame Town Hall on Saturday 3rd December, 10am-4pm, will be offering ladies secondhand designer and High Street clothing, from eveningwear to knitwear, plus handbags, shoes and jewellery – all at a fraction of the original price. Labels managers Lynne Reynolds and Liz Dickinson, who joined the Charity last month, will be welcoming ladies to the sale, and will be on hand to help shoppers pick out those extra special outfits. Wendy Everett, Head of Retail at FNHC said: “We are all very excited about our first-ever Labels sale, and are hoping to entice many local ladies along, perhaps out shopping in Thame, to come in and have a browse. These lovely designer items are one-off, so if you see something you like, be quick to grab it, as you won’t want to miss out on a bargain!” If you would like to be a stall holder at the event or have designer clothing to sell on the day, please contact Wendy on 01296 429975 or email wendyeverett@fnhospice.org.uk TELL ME MORE ABOUT LABELS

Labels of Amersham, The Broadway, (next door to Ask), now sporting a brand new look highlighting its Charity connection, is the place to be if you are looking for must-have designer items at fantastic prices, but don’t want to travel to the West End. Shop managers Lynne and Liz provide first class customer service, in a

dress to impress, and support the Florence Nightingale Hospice at the same time. DON’T TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT!

friendly and welcoming atmosphere – in this Charity shop with a big difference. Fashion-conscious buyers can browse at leisure among high quality secondhand designer-wear including glitzy party dresses (for those all-important Christmas office parties coming up), seasonal clothing and accessories. Some of the designer stock on offer at Labels is entirely donated, and some give the donor 50% of the sale price

while the other 50% goes towards supporting the Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity, which needs to raise half a million pounds each year to keep the Florence Nightingale Hospice and its local services running for families affected by life-limiting illness. With Prada, Gucci, Jimmy Choo, Burberry, Nicole Farhi, Ralph Lauren, Sarah Puccini and Mulberry - just a few of the well-known designer names to choose from, what are you waiting for? The Labels team will help you find that perfect head-to-toe outfit for any special occasion, be it an office party, dinner dance or winter ball. So why not

“I think the real secret is to pop in to Labels of Amersham regularly,” said a recent customer. “These outfits are one-off designer items, so if you don’t snap them up quickly you will most definitely miss out!” Come and have a browse today ladies and see what wonderful designer bargains you can find. Visit LABELS, 12 The Broadway, Old Amersham (next door to Ask), open from 10.00am to 5.00pm Monday to Saturday. If you have any designer clothes you would like to sell, and in turn help support the local Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity, please contact 01494 728333 to make an appointment. AND LADIES - Why not find out more about our exclusive shopping evenings? Contact Labels on 01494 728333 NOVEMBER2011 49

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Q&A

WITH THE AWARD WINNING DENTIST

DR SHaMeeK POPat

NOVEMBER IS MOUTH CANCER MONTH SO IT’S TIME TO TALK: MOUTH CANCER. THE BRITISH DENTAL HEALTH FOUNDATION (BDHF), AN INDEPENDENT ORAL HEALTH CHARITY, HAS LAUNCHED THE MOUTH CANCER ACTION MONTH CAMPAIGN, DEDICATED TO RAISING AWARENESS OF THE DISEASE. TAKING PLACE THROUGHOUT NOVEMBER, THE BDHF, IN ASSOCIATION WITH DENPLAN, WILL BE CALLING ON DENTISTS, DOCTORS AND PHARMACISTS TO EDUCATE THE GENERAL PUBLIC ABOUT A DISEASE THAT KILLS MORE PEOPLE IN THE UK THAN TESTICULAR AND CERVICAL CANCER COMBINED UNDER THE TAGLINE: ‘IF IN DOUBT, GET CHECKED OUT.’ MOUTH CANCER: FACTS AND FIGURES How many cases?

• Latest recorded figures (2008) figures show 5,790 new cases of mouth cancer a year are diagnosed in the UK • The number of annual mouth cancer cases increased by a staggering 45.9% between 1997 and 2008 • In the UK, Scotland has the highest mouth cancer incidence rate of all the countries

• Worldwide, an estimated 405,000 new cases are diagnosed each year • The latest figures show that cancer of the lip is three times more common in men than in women • 87% of cases in the UK occur in people aged 50 or over

• Over two thirds of mouth cancer cases are detected at a late stage, reducing chances of survival • Early detection transforms survival chances to more than 90% • Mouth cancer kills more people than cervical cancer and testicular cancer combined

Some shocking statistics

• 1,822 people died from mouth cancer in 2008 • Under half of those diagnosed survive beyond five years of diagnosis

What are the risk factors?

• Tobacco use and drinking alcohol are the main risk factors and account for around three in four cases of mouth

cancers • People who both drink and use tobacco to excess are up to 30 times more likely to develop the condition • Non-smokers who are exposed to second hand smoke at home or at work are two thirds more likely to develop the disease • Mouth cancer is more likely to affect people over 40 years of age, though an increasing number of young people are developing the condition • 50 years ago mouth cancer was five times more common in men than women. Now it is only twice as common • US studies relate the human papilloma virus (HPV) to more than 20,000 cancer cases in the past five years So readers, the message is that regularly attending checkups or recare visits to your dentist increases the chances of mouth cancer being detected at an early stage, together we can help raise awareness of this killer disease.

FOR ANY FURTHER INFORMATION OR QUESTIONS PLEASE CONTACT; ROSEBANK DENTAL PRACTICE, SHIRE LANE, CHORLEYWOOD, HERTFORDSHIRE WD3 5NH WEB - WWW.ROSEBANKDENTAL.CO.UK EMAIL – INFO@ROSEBANKDENTAL.CO.UK • TELEPHONE - 01923 282 691

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p51_BUCKS_AD_VARIOUS__ 16/11/2011 17:21 Page 1

A fresh look for 2012

Fine French Touch www.finefrenchtouch.co.uk

Dermal fillers and Wrinkle Relaxing Cosmetic treatments Dr Nathalie Frayssinet Consultant Anaesthetist Cosmetic Practitioner Tel: 01494 565640

Ensuring you are in professional hands Treatment available at O’Naturelle, Marlow Cannelle Beaute, Oxford Cannelle Beaute, Henley-on-Thames

10% Off Your 1st treatment

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locks! W

hen hair grows on average only 1cm per month waiting for long luscious locks can be tedious, but with Rapunzel Ltd's 100% natural human hair extensions their expert technicians can add gorgeous volume or up to 24” in length in just a couple of hours. A complementary consultation will determine which system will work best for you, along with the number & length of hair extensions needed for instant luxurious length and or volume without damaging your own hair! There are many myths surrounding hair extensions, particularly that they will damage your own hair – this is untrue as long as the extensions are applied correctly by a skilled technician. Thousands of women have used hair extensions to grow their own hair to a desired length with no adverse effects whatsoever. Rapunzel Ltd in Marlow are very proud of their reputation, unparalleled level of service and quality human hair extensions they have strived to provide their clients for many years now. Using uncompromising techniques to attach hair extensions & hairloss solutions to your own hair, only using the highest quality 100% natural human hair. Rapunzel offer revolutionary and unique hair thickening systems for very fine hair, where a bespoke solution can be found for any client. So to get the hair you have always dreamed of call Rapunzel for your professionally applied human hair extensions or hair loss solution. Whether you would like to add length, thickness, colour or disguise damage, thinning hair or a hair loss problem at Rapunzel they can help. For examples of these amazing transformations go to www.rapunzelhairextensions.com or to book your free consultation call 01628-481 388. Rapunzel Ltd, 12 Chapel Street, Marlow, Bucks. SL7 1DD 01628 481 388

‘Rapunzel offer revolutionary and unique hair thickening systems for very fine hair, where a bespoke solution can be found for any client’

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MYTH: Hair extensions Damage your Hair FACT: When hair extensions are applied correctly there is virtually no reason why they would damage your hair, thousands of women have used hair extensions to grow their own hair to a desired length with no adverse effects whatsoever. However, that is not to say everybody's hair is suitable for hair extensions. At Rapunzel the safety of your hair is taken very seriously hence a free consultation is offered along with a complimentary check up appointment. MYTH: You can't have hair extensions if your hair is fine FACT: In fact, many women with fine hair choose to use hair extensions to add extra volume. Extensions can be done in very tiny size to be virtually undetectable . MYTH: You have to dye your hair to the same colour as the extensions. FACT: This would not happen at Rapunzel as every hair colour is kept in stock all of the time. MYTH: People can tell when you are wearing hair extensions FACT: When they are done properly by a skilled Technician, placed in the right places with the correct amount of extensions used & expertly cut in, hair extensions look completely like your own hair and undetectable. MYTH: You can't keep up your highlights & root colour when the hair extensions are in FACT: Actually you can still do highlights, you just work around the extensions. When dying roots the colour can be applied as it normally would. At Rapunzel once you have our extensions in we can look after all your hairdressing needs if you would like us to. MYTH: You can't brush & style easily with hair extensions FACT: As long as the right brush is used (supplied by Rapunzel Ltd), then you can brush right into and through the roots with no damage to your own hair or the extensions. You can also use straightening irons, curling tongs & heated rollers as long as you are careful to avoid the bonds. NOVEMBER2011 5 3

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by the drill X FACTOR JUDGE TULISA CHOOSES TO PUT HER TRUST IN DENTIST DR DAVID BLOOM OF AMERSHAM AND ORAL IMPLANTOLOGIST GUY MCLELLAN OF BEACONSFIELD he Nation has taken Tulisa Contostavlos of N-Dubz fame, to their hearts as she proves her worth and popularity as a new X-Factor judge. Arguably she is the golden girl of the moment and whilst sporting a new polished and sophisticated image she has also decided to treat herself to a new celebrity smile! She voted ‘YES’ to having her treatment carried out by the extremely talented Dr David Bloom and the team at Senova Dental Studios in the heart of Watford. The two lead dentists Dr David Bloom and Dr Jay Padayachy not only have massive talent in the fields of Cosmetic and general dentistry but their credentials are backed up by professional qualifications, prestigious industry awards and many years of experience. They were both chosen as the dentists for the hit TV show Extreme Makeover UK. Luke Barnett (residing in Berkhamsted) the ceramist who crafts the teeth has worked closely with David and Senova Dental Studios for over 15 years. They have become a formidable team and arguably provide some of the top cosmetic dentistry in the UK. This must be why Celebrities such as Tulisa and model Sophie Anderton, to name but a few, have chosen to have dental treatment at Senova Dental Studios. Luke and David put down their success to a real passion to 54

NOVEMBER2011

create the perfect smile and the proximity in which they work “ Having our studios next door to each other means we can really offer a superb service and I can meet all Senova Patients, before, whilst and after their smile makeover. Most dental BEFORE surgeries do not have this luxury, the work is sent off to a lab and communication is much harder”, says Luke Although successful, pretty and confident with healthy AFTER teeth before the treatment, Tulisa found she was self-conscious and not happy to smile. She didn’t want to show, what she thought been was her excessive absolutely gum line. She thought great”. her teeth were too short, so Tulisa has her treatment has included a matured into a shining star gum lift (performed by Guy with a shining new smile to Mclellan) and full set of veneers. match! Dr David Bloom expressed that If you are interested in “We may have improved the Cosmetic dentistry or general appearance of Tulisa’s teeth but dentistry call today on most importantly we have 01923233600 for you free improved the function and informal one to one with either efficiency of her jaw and bite” David or Jay to discuss your stating that “she was an absolute needs and desires. pleasure to treat” If it is general private With every dental specialism dentistry that you seek, but the under one roof, it’s no wonder price has always stopped you, Tulisa was quoted as saying of look no further! Senova Dental her treatment “I’m a very happy Studios have been chosen as a girl; my treatment at Senova has regional training centre by The

Another celebrity ‘saved by the drill’ at Senova Dental Studios in Watford University of Warwick. In a nutshell, this means that Jay and David will be training postgraduate fully qualified dentists on a specialist training path. Jay and David will conduct the initial examination and oversee all work undertaken. This has enabled Senova Dental Studios to be able to offer patients significant savings off treatments. To find out more, please call 01923233600 as only 50 places available! Senova Dental Studios (Opposite Palace Car park, The Harlequin Centre, Watford) 01923 233600 www.senovadental.com admin@senovadental.com

p55_BUCKS_AD_VARIOUS__ 16/11/2011 17:18 Page 1

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ird ffer o ly B Ear entry ult t d a n r u d pe co dis 12.50 er chil £ 0 p til £5.0 lid un ly on va 2/11 19/1

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Find us at: 56 London End, Beaconsfield HP9 2JH 01494 675336 7 Cherry Tree House, Dean Street, Marlow SL7 3AA 01628 476070

p57_BUCKS_AD_VARIOUS__ 16/11/2011 17:05 Page 1

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i

n Tudor times a prudent man of wealth bought land and property, then with the advice of his agent he acquired the best and most desirable goods and chattels of artistic or intrinsic worth. These goods were new at the time and with a few minor exceptions they held their value and at best showed quite handsome returns when sold. In the 18th century it became fashionable to acquire works of art from a bygone age. So the security of buying contemporary objets d’art and ancient treasures was well established long before the current interest in antiques took hold. From the 1950’s until the 1990’s people who collected antiques as an academic exercise and those who furnished their house with them found that an ever-increasing demand caused their collections and their household furnishings to earn money while they admired and studied or simply used and enjoyed. Anything old seemed to be a good investment. How things have changed, for now - and for most of the last decade - it is only the impassionate investor who can confidently expect and achieve a satisfactory return. Of course the collector can still enjoy his collection, and the furnisher can still use his furnishings, but it can no longer be taken for granted that either will see their purchases automatically increase in value. If they do see an increase it will be because other people, i.e. ‘the market’, likes them too. But that is luck not logic; not a sound basis for an investment. In essence, investing in antiques should be no different to buying stocks and shares. You have an adviser, the equivalent of your broker, who tells you when there is an opportunity for a purchase, suggests a time scale for lock-in, the likely return forecast and the reasons behind

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John Bly ANTIQUES AS AN INVESTMENT. THE ORIGINAL ASSET.

his recommendation. You take his advice, buy and place the item in store. When he tells you to sell you sell. There are criteria that he must adhere to. An investment item must be of supreme quality within its category and have significant provenance. This needs to include an owner, a designer or a maker at least, and the more of these to a single piece the better. Then it must have growth potential in either its unrevealed history, as in a ‘sleeper’ or ‘lost’ item, or in its out-of-fashion style or in its currently unfulfilled functionality. For an example of the latter take the Georgian slope-front bureaux which lost their appeal in favour of flat top desks when computers replaced the more compact typewriters. As a result the price of bureaux fell to a third within a period of eighteen months. During the ensuing same period the

average price had doubled from its base as computers became smaller but has remained still below it former peak. There is room for growth given careful selection of only the best. Since the 1970’s a change in the demand for a specific period ‘style’ such as Shabby-chic to Minimalist, Old French to Robert Adam, and Arts & Crafts to Art Deco has occurred consistently within a five to seven year period and so it follows that the recommended minimum lock-in period for an investment is the same, five to seven years. A ‘sleeper’ is best described as an item known to have existed but of which there has been no trace for many years. It is knowledge of such pieces, the current style fashion in any given country, swings in functional needs and a constant awareness of the requirements of collectors and furnishers that make the adviser an integral part of any sound investment. Historically the most carefully chosen, researched and provenanced examples of any category of work of art or antique, from arms and armour to statuary, furniture, ceramics and metal ware, have shown a 7.5% - 10% compound interest increase after a five year period. This may be slightly reduced according to size, which relates to the storage costs but even for bulky items this is minimal. There are two main disadvantages.

One is liquidity. You cannot call your adviser as you would your broker and sell over the phone. Even if there are potential buyers in the wings, negotiations can take several months. The other is that the business is not regulated, so trust in the adviser is crucial. Having gone through a period when any old domestic items gained value, we are now back to Tudor basics where investment is concerned, when advice was sought and only the best was bought. Providing that same diligence is applied there can be no doubt that a fine antique or wonderful work of art should be part of any prudent man’s portfolio today. And of course if he by chance happens to like it he may take home and enjoy it. Each of the items illustrated has shown a 100% increase in sale value within the last ten years. If any readers would like to write to me with their ideas of starting and current prices the closest within 15% will have the opportunity of a complimentary consultation with Richard Broughton, Wealth Manager, Mallory Scott Alternatives. www.malloryscott.co.uk My grateful thanks to Peter Finer and Tomasso Brothers for the images of the suit of armour and the bronze figure respectively.

p59_BUCKS_AD_VARIOUS__ 16/11/2011 17:16 Page 1

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Creating a new lifestyle with In-toto kitchens S

ince the In-toto Kitchens showroom opened in Northwood Hills in 2006, owner and kitchen designer Shanti Panchani has established a local reputation for delivering truly inspirational kitchen designs. Located directly opposite the Underground station, the open-plan showroom provides a showcase for the latest modern, contemporary and classic style kitchens from In-toto’s portfolio of different ranges.

‘WE UNDERSTAND THAT EVERY CUSTOMER’S IDEA OF A PERFECT KITCHEN IS DIFFERENT, AND SO WE LISTEN CAREFULLY TO YOUR NEEDS TO MAKE SURE WE UNDERSTAND EXACTLY WHAT YOU WANT TO SUIT YOUR INDIVIDUAL LIFESTYLE.’ With 19 years of expertise in the kitchen industry, Shanti knew that his own In-toto business meant he could provide the ultimate customer experience. Shanti said: ‘’Designing kitchens is all about creating a new lifestyle and therefore exploring and understanding exactly what our customers want is key to creating striking, workable designs which transform their home. We have extensive experience in designing for specific needs, such as Kosher kitchens designed to separate items used for the 1 12/10/11 preparation and serving of meat and dairy meals, and my team and I

pride ourselves in being able to adapt designs to suit specific requirements.’’ The Northwood showroom is at the heart of the community and Shanti surrounds himself with a strong team of experienced and talented people who share his commitment and passion to deliver outstanding kitchens. Project managing the entire process from planning and design to fitting and installation, Shanti’s showroom has mostly grown out of positive feedback and recommendations from very happy customers. As a result of Shanti’s continued commitment, he has recently taken over the St. Albans store. The team at St. Albans share the same passion as Shanti and will deliver the same level of service as Northwood Hills. ‘’We understand that every customer’s idea of a perfect kitchen is different, and so we listen carefully to your needs to make sure we understand exactly what you want to suit your individual lifestyle. Initially, and In-toto designer will visit your home, measure your kitchen and discuss your specific requirements, before preparing a plan for your consideration. Any changes can be made easily, and you are under no obligation to buy.’’ ‘’Top quality cabinets, individually crafted for your kitchen, with leading brand state-of-the-art appliances, all installed to the highest standards, mean that you can confidently expect a stunning kitchen that will provide many years of trouble free service from In-toto. Our status as full members of the KBSA (Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Specialists Association), further guarantees the craftsmanship, financial integrity and professionalism of In-toto, and gives you the added peace of mind when taking the decision to commit to your new kitchen.’’

FULL PROJECT MANAGEMENT SERVICE

Showrooms at Northwood Hills & now also at St Albans

In-toto Kitchens

In-toto Kitchens Argyle House, Joel Street, Northwood Hills, Middlesex HA6 1NS Tel:

w Under Ne nt 12 George Street, e Managem

St Albans, Herts, AL3 4ER

01923 822 332

Tel:

Email: northwoodhills@intoto.co.uk

www.intoto.co.uk

01727 811488

Email: stalbans@intoto.co.uk

Insurance backed protection for your deposit, all other payments, work in progress and a six year warranty.

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A PICTURE OF The new 3D version of the BeoVision 7 55-inch TV with integrated Bluray player boasts fantastic picture performance and breathtaking sound; and now a 3D home cinema experience

SINCE

its launch in 2004, the BeoVision 7 has been Bang & Olufsen’s bestselling TV with 130,000 units sold. It has won several design prices and is often heralded as the

BEAUTY

surround sound module, and is one of the very few to have an integrated Blu-ray player with 3D functionality. Imagine feeling totally absorbed and a part of the action in your favourite

Olufsen TV range. The LCD screen in BeoVision 7-55 is based on new direct-type LED-backlight with local dimming for greater contrast. The TV contains state-of-the-art features ensuring a smooth picture performance, a sophisticated digital

technology introduced in the BeoVision 7-55, Bang & Olufsen will take you there. Unlike conventional 2D TV viewing, 3D TV provides a more intense, immersive experience that takes the viewer beyond the sofa in the living room – to feeling like he is right there on the

Whether you wish to enjoy your home cinema experience in 2D or 3D, BeoVision 7-55 is designed to give the viewer the ultimate TV experience – even in fast moving scenes.

The beam-shaped loudspeaker below the screen provides superb acoustic performance and sound as an integral part of your viewing experience. Musically, the speaker rivals

3D feeds the left and the right eye of the viewer with This means that to be able to decode what is recorded by the cameras, the viewer also needs to put on the active shutter glasses, which are designed to ensure excellent picture quality by communicating with the screen.

With the launch of the new 3D version of BeoVision 7-55, a new generation of 3D TV viewing is introduced. So get ready to be utterly enthralled by a 3D sight and sound sensation from Bang & Olufsen. And watch your TV experience come alive. NOVEMBER2011 61

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The new BeoVision 7-55 is the only entertainment system that adapts to precisely accommodate when, where and how you prefer to watch television. And it begins the instant you turn it on. Electronic curtains glide open to reveal an image that has been automatically optimised to the light conditions in the room. The screen turns on its motorised stand to provide you with a perfect viewing angle. Adaptive Sound Technology sychronises the audio balance to place you at the centre of the sound stage. What’s more, BeoVision 7-55 can also display full HD signals in all their glory via the optional integrated Blu-ray player.

As you enjoy what you are watching, the BeoVision 7-55 seamlessly monitors any light changes in the room and adjusts contrast and brilliance accordingly. Finally, as your viewing experience comes to an end and the electronic curtains draw closed, you pause to admire just how the brushed aluminium frame create a timeless work of art. Right in your own living room.

SPECIAL OFFER: £1000 TRADE-IN FOR YOUR EXISTING TELEVISION (ANY MAKE) WHEN YOU PURCHASE THE NEW 3D BEOVISION 7 IN 40 OR 55”

...a step further Bang & Olufsen of Watford 108 The Parade, Watford WD17 1AW Tel. 01923 229734, watford@bang-olufsen.co.uk www.bang-olufsen.com/watford

Bang & Olufsen of Ruislip 72 High Street, Ruislip HA4 7AA Tel. 01895 633666, ruislip@bang-olufsen.co.uk www.bang-olufsen.com/ruislip

p61_BUCKS_B&O_2__ 16/11/2011 16:41 Page 3

BeoCom 5

TREAT YOUR LOVED ONE THIS CHRISTMAS WITH A GIFT FROM BANG & OLUFSEN Bringing you a new dimension in luxury, Bang & Olufsen’s gift collection is a feast for the eyes and ears, combining stunning sound and visual production with over eight decades of dedication to design. From luxury gifts, such as the BeoSound 8, which is the perfect digital music partner for your iPad, to the beautiful BeoTime alarm clock. Whoever you’re buying for, whether they’re digital whizz-kids, design connoisseurs or style arbiters with a taste for the finer things in life, the latest additions to the Bang & Olufsen collection should set their pulses racing.

BeoSound 8 available in new colours

Bang & Olufsen of Ruislip 72 High Street, Ruislip HA4 7AA Tel: 01895 633666 ruislip@bang-olufsen.co.uk www.bang-olufsen.com/ruislip Bang & Olufsen of Watford 108 The Parade, High Street, Watford WD17 1AW Tel: 01923 229734 watford@bang-olufsen.co.uk www.bang-olufsen.com/watford

Form 2 available in new colours BeoCom 2

Scan the code with your Smartphone. You will need a QR code reader app which can be downloaded from the app store.

BeoTime

Earphones available in five colours

BeoSound 8 iPad not included. iPad is a trademark of Apple, Inc., registered in US and other countries.

bang-olufsen.com

p64_BUCKS_ECO__ 17/11/2011 12:41 Page 1

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0 0`WbWaV3Q] `WbWaV3Q]

T he sun still shines on your investment with the new solarr PV F Feed-In eed-In T Tarif arifffs

achieve a minimum of band C energy rating to receive the 21p per kW h tari . Any properties below band C will need to be brought up to band C by installing energy eďŹƒciency measures outlined in the EPC recommendations to be eligible for for the high tari . Any property below band C affter ter the 1st Ap pril 2012 will only receive 9p per kW h until energy eďŹƒciency measures are implemented. BritishEco is an accredited MCS installer able to ser vice

3

arlier this yyear ear the Government announced their ďŹ rst comprehensive review of the Feed-in tari s ffor or small-scale renewable electricity generation. On the 31st October 2011 they released their second comprehensive review which is considering various aspects of the scheme which include the tari rates. Solar PV is still a great in nvestment at the new rate of 21p per kW h. It will give you an average return of 8% to 10% which is still more than any ISA or building society would o er er you you o today. There have been extensive price reductions in the last 6 months ffor or a solar PV system which enables you to receive great returns on investment. From the 1st April 2012 anyy individual wanting wantin to install a solar PV system will also require an Energy Performance CertiďŹ cate (EPC) to which they must

64

NOVEMBER2011

Feed-In eed-In Tari The time to act is now to secure the high F levels with great returns and saavings vings highlighted below: / BG>71/: "9E 2=;3AB71 AGAB3; 1=C:2 /BB@/1B(

£720 F Feed-In eed-In Tarri P Payment ayment £223 savinggs on electtricitty bill £53 from exporting ng ttoo the national grid 3AB7;/B32 @3BC@<A /<2 A/D7<5A

Annual saving off ÂŁ996 10.4% Initial tax-fr tax-f -freee return n on investment Estimatted earninggs over 25 years ÂŁ34,396

B B63@3 6/D3 033< 63@3 6/D3 033< 3FB3<A7D3 >@713 3 FB3<A7D3 >@713 @32C1B7=<A @ 32C1B7=<A 77< B63 :/AB $ < B63 :/AB $ ;=<B6A 4=@ / ; =<B6A 4=@ / A=:/@ >D AGAB3; A =:/@ >D AGAB3; E6716 3</0:3A E 6716 3</0:3A G=C B= @3137D3 G =C B= @3137D3 5@3/B @3BC@<A 5 @3/B @3BC@<A =< 7<D3AB;3<B =< 7<D3AB;3<B your needs whether you are a domestic,, commercial or public sector customer. We can supply you with a ffrree desktop sur vey advising yyou oou on the suitability of your property, the cost of the relevant system and the returns in which you can expect. We specialise special in the design & install of solar PV panels and other renewable energy systems. O ur team of skilled PV solar installers will ensure that the unit is ďŹ tted exactly as designed. Please call us today on 0845 257 0041 or visit www.BritishEco.com om ffor or further inffor ormation.

So

p64_BUCKS_ECO__ 17/11/2011 12:41 Page 2

Call us today on

0845 257 0041

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C CWn_c_i[ oekh _dl[ijc[dj m_j^ j^[ h[l_i[Z <[[Z#?d JWh_\\i Wn_c_i[ oekh _dl[ijc[dj m_j^ j^[ h[l_i[Z <[[Z#?d JWh_\\i Tarif ariffs The Government backed Feed-In Tarif fs scheme that pays you for generating electricity is secured for 25 years, tax free and index linked. The revised tariffs tariffs still of offer fer you a high return on your investment, typically in excess of 3 times more than a comparable low risk bond or cash ISA investment.

Install before before the 1st April 2012 to avoid costly alterations to your pr property operty in accor accordance dance proposed. with the new Government guidelines that have been pr oposed. Solar Thermal

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p66_BUCKS_AD_VARIOUS__ 16/11/2011 17:02 Page 1

KITCHEN WORKTOP SPECIALISTS

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We are a local independent garage established in 1967 As well as Car Sales we have a fully equipped three ramp workshop with three full-time technicians. We are a member of ‘The Good Garage Scheme’ and offer a fair and reasonably priced service at all times. “Why pay Main Dealer prices?” (Justin O’Shea, proprietor)

Call us now for a quotation

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Worktop specialists (Over 500 colours) Laminate, Wood, Formica, Getacore & Solid Surfaces

Longer lengths up to 4.1 metre worktops available l Mitres, cut & edge service l Replacement made-to-measure doors and worktops l Crown Kitchens supplied, planning & design service l Sinks & taps l Splashbacks, an alternative to tiles available in 100’s of colours l

020 8421 4100 RSC, Station Approach, Preswick Road, South Oxley, Watford WD19 7DT For Car Sales Servicing, Tyres & Repairs Tel: 020 8421 4100 Fax: 020 8421 4553 Email: justin@r-s-c.co.uk www.r-s-c.co.uk

sportsandtrophies Specialist in football equipment and trophies

Adult and school team kits Tracksuits l Referee Specialist l Licensed to sell Fireworks NOW IN STOCK! l

A family business for 50 years

l

the Probablyction best seleies in of trophrea the a For more information call

020 8428 8885 or online at www.sportsandtrophies.co.uk sales@sportsandtrophies.co.uk

We can also buy gold and repair jewellery as additional services

www.modernlaminates.co.uk

01923 229029 Showroom: 179b Queens Road, Watford WD17 2QJ

35 The Parade, Prestwick Road, Watford WD19 7EE

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SWIM AT HOME EVERY DAY OF THE YEAR AN ORIGIN POOL. IT'S A FAMILY THING...

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rigin has been in the business of constructing indoor and outdoor swimming pools for over thirty years. In that time they have progressed from simple timber buildings to the impressive architect design schemes of today. To celebrate this anniversary Origin has commissioned a total redesign of their visual identity. This includes a bright new logo, excitingly updated publicity material and van fleet, and an interactive user-friendly website. To accompany this flurry of activity the company has produced an all new colour brochure, showing as never before the breadth of Origin's capability. Covering all the styles that this unique British company has become known for, from classic original styles to custom designed extensions that are a true product of yours and Origin's combined thinking, the brochure is economical with words, letting the beautiful pictures tell the story. Origin has also committed to an occasional newsletter, NewsWave, to announce the latest and greatest improvements the company has been working 68

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on, and of course show the pick of the recent triumphs. Add a monthly emailing, Origin eNews, and the new publicity thrust is complete ready to take on the next thirty years! But the caring attention to detail, the meticulous, design work and the insistence of only using the finest materials available hasn't changed. The company still handles every element of the process, without bringing in any outside experts whatsoever. From the first meeting, to the sketch ideas produced as a result, to the architectural drawings and finished visuals, to the guidance through the planning process, to the earthworks, the building and completing. Origin takes the process from beginning to end -

and all you have to do is jump into the state-of-the-art heated pool at the end of it all. Origin has become Britain's longest established, best known pool company because they have accepted every challenge, crossed every hurdle, and with great experience and ingenuity created a product that is considered second to none, by customers and the pool industry alike. The architects and designers are seasoned players in their fields, and bring a wealth of experience to every aspect of this complex and demanding business. Even the teams who build the final pool houses are eminently professional, many having been involved since the very early days of the company. Building an indoor pool house is a complex business, so many of Origin's buildings are based on the company's established styles. For example,

The Panorama has a light, airy construction with a bright hipped glazed lantern roof – and is built from solid timber with an optional brick or rendered facing, to co-ordinate with the style of your home. The Barn has all the appearance and appeal of a country barn conversion, but built to state-of-the-art standards to be the home for a superb heated pool. The Sirius has exceptional designer looks and a wide expanse of glass bringing a real indoor/outdoor feel to your swimming. These established style-inspired pool houses come in a wide range of standard sizes, and the heated pool will be in a style of your choice. Origin is recognised as the foremost designers of one-o buildings and extensions, designed and developed to co-ordinate with their surroundings perfectly. Materials and finishes are carefully matched with the existing structure – so the finished result is a handsome extension to the property, hiding a luxurious heated pool. To do full justice to Origin's expertise they include outdoor pools as part of their remit. The company is famous for creating pool houses, but they are all too aware that many people prefer to swim in the sun (or under the stars) and an outdoor pool can be one of the most aspirational features a home can have. The level of skill and understanding of pool technology has helped Origin to become one of the country's foremost outdoor pool providers. Origin's new logo has a strapline "The original indoor & outdoor pool company." Get in touch, and find out just why the original is usually the best. Origin Leisure Harefield Middlesex UB9 6TH Telephone 01895 823366 or email info@originleisure.com for the new brochure, or to be included in future distribution of NewsWave and Origin eNews. And check out the all new website: www.originleisure.com

Ad_Master_Layout 1 16/11/2011 18:26 Page 1

Origin leisure

the original indoor outdoor pool company

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PRIVATE SCREENING

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martcomm were enlisted to transform a family home’s spare room into a luxury cinema space, and they certainly delivered! Our client was referred to Smartcomm from a successful previous project recently completed in North London. The brief was for a high end cinema room that sits eight people and is contains stunning video and audio reproduction. The room also had to look fantastic; a room that they would be proud to show to their friends. The client was keen that any equipment be hidden from view to help maintain a modern, minimalistic feel. Smartcomm took this into account throughout the design and installation and the end result is very pleasing to the eye! The client already had an initial idea of how they envisioned the room, so Smartcomm worked closely with them to produce an exquisite design. The requested décor was a style similar to that of a high end boutique hotel or nightclub. Not “extravagant” but in a class of its own. We indulged this desire with use of different fabrics such as leather and alcantara for the acoustic panels that surround the room and conceal the two entrance doors. Hand-turned matt black handrails with glass infills compliment the plush interior whilst providing a safety aspect to the steps. 70

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The impressive technology is apparent before you enter the room, with an Ekey Finger scanner halting your path. This clever compact device is equipped with a line sensor, so you swipe your finger rather than pressing and fingerprints are not left, eliminating the risk of misuse. Once entry has been granted, it’s simply a case of enabling the Crestron Intelligent Lighting system. As the array of spotlights come into light, the ceiling is illuminated with dozens of alternating Starlight fibre optics, providing a charming ambience to the family cinema. The master control for the room’s components sits in the TPMC-3X; a handheld WiFi Touchpanel from Crestron. The remote provides superb control for the cinema system, from automatically adjusting the screen’s aspect ratio to control of the accompanying sources including SKY HD and the Kaleidescape system which allows storage for up to 300 DVDs with additional storage facilities for expansion. The Touchpanel’s WiFi performance achieves a remarkable 50 feet of indoor coverage with no line-of-sight required, and with a 2.8 active-matrix electroluminescent touchscreen, it is the perfect addition to an already alluring setup.

Speaking of alluring, the Screen Research 2:40:1 X-Mask 2™ curved cinema screen does not disappoint. The acoustically transparent 2.8 metre frame has been built with lateral masking, framing the screen with a cinematic black border that is flexible to a range of aspect ratios. Precision motors ensure greater accuracy for masking positions and can all be controlled by the Crestron interface, making movie viewing a breeze. Movies are presented courtesy of a Digital Projection M-Vision projector that delivers a pristine high-definition picture. In keeping with the client’s request to maintain a clean interior, Smartcomm installed a mirror-kit projection system in the ceiling. When enabled, a discreet panel in the ceiling opens and the picture is reflected through electrically driven mirrors. As well as concealing it from view, the encapsulated projector is quietened, producing minimal audio from the machine itself and eliminating any distractions.

Helping to contribute to an excellent home cinema experience, are the Triad InWall speakers. Gold /6 LCR, Silver /4 Surround and Silver /15 Sub speakers are the ideal trio to provide exceptional surround sound for this home cinema. Their sleek unimposing style means they slot into the walls with minimum fuss, whilst sustaining the sophistication of the décor. The room’s luxurious style does not end with state-of-the-art technology; comfortable seating is provided in the form of some beautiful bespoke chairs, specially designed and produced for the client by Fortress Seating. Featuring eight electric reclining home theatre seats with a premium leather finish, they are a sumptuous inclusion and the perfect finish to this lavish home cinema. The end result is a beautiful room with stunning décor, lighting and best of all an audio visual system that keeps the family and their friends thoroughly entertained. 3 Barnes Wallis Court, Wellington Road, Cressex Business Park, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire HP12 3PS Tel: +44(0) 1494 471 912

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Makers of bespoke contemporary furniture in Oak, Black Walnut and High Gloss Paint Finishes in the colour of your choice Side tables, coee tables, chair side tables, wine racks, console tables, lamp tables, bedside tables, AV units, mirrors Enquiries or to discuss a particular project please telephone

01442 832500 or email info@orchard-living.co.uk www.orchard-living.co.uk

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FLOORS, DOORS, WINDOWS AND STAIRCASES FROM BRILL SAWMILLS

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rill Sawmills are THE hardwood specialists with showrooms and offices located in the picturesque village of Long Crendon near Thame. They are experts in all things hardwood, especially Oak, and offer a wide range of quality floors, doors, windows and staircases. With a bespoke manufacturing and fitting service backed up by its own dedicated team of joiners and carpenters, Brill Sawmills has been putting the ‘wow’ factor into homes across the UK for nine years. Today I spoke to the company Managing Director, Tony James, to find out exactly what set Brill Sawmills apart from the competition. He attributed much of their success to their niche position within the market, concentrating on the home owner and offering them a one-stop-shop for all their hardwood requirements. Tony explained that because Brill Sawmills import and manufacture many products themselves they can cut the ‘middleman’ and his margin from the supply chain, so customers don’t have to compromise. They give the client the opportunity to purchase high quality hardwood floors, doors, windows and staircases at very competitive prices, which combined with the specialist fitting services gives the customer a complete solution. Tony views the fitting side of the business as extremely important, describing his installers as the best ambassadors that a company could have, you will find all our fitters to be experienced, courteous and professional at all times. “Quality and Service are our by words”, Tony said, “today we spend very little on advertising almost all of our business comes

from recommendation... the greatest form of advertising. As an independent supplier with an unrivalled sourcing network we really can find the best solutions to meet and exceed your expectations. We carry a wide range of stock hardwood goods, ironmongery, finishing products and accessories and have the facilities to produce bespoke joinery items to your design. We are specialists in hardwood with a wealth of expertise, so if you are looking for something outside of our core business below, please don’t hesitate to get in touch – regardless of the stage your build is at we want to hear from you.” There are a great many things in life that make us feel good and hardwood is one of them; its stunning to the eye, warm to the touch and comes from a renewable resource. Nothing brings a home to life like the natural beauty of real hardwood, spanning a wide spectrum of natural colours from the palest ash to the richest mahogany and with a range of finishes such as natural oils, stains and lacquers. Buying a hardwood product from Brill Sawmills is a real investment, and you will still be able to admire them in years to come. They are hardwearing and can withstand a household full of children and pets. Everyone wants to live in a beautiful home, after purchasing from Brill Sawmills you are half way there to achieving it. Woodway Farm, Bicester Road, Long Crendon, Bucks. HP18 9EP Telephone 01844 202440 Fax 01844 202443 Email matt@brillsawmills.co.uk Website www.brillsawmills.co.uk NOVEMBER2011 73

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INSTALLATION SPECIALISTS FOR HOME CINEMA, HI FI, MULTI-ROOM SYSTEMS AND LIGHTING There is still time to add that extra dimension to your home - a stunning television, home cinema or music system. Installed beautifully for Christmas and the New Year. Come in to see what we can do for you. SSAV Chorleywood are celebrating 1 year in our new location with 15% off all speakers and speaker packages purchased before the end of November 2011* (Not in conjunction with any other offer).

Sevenoaks Sound & Vision Chorleywood • www.ssav.com 22 Lower Road, Chorleywood, WD3 5LH • Tel 0845 504 6364 (low call rate) Open Monday to Saturday 10am to 5.30pm

For more information on what type of vices we can products and serrvices provide, we recommend you take a look at our you tube channel Opticians Watford Theeyeshopwatford

Follow us on twitter @eyeshopwatford Join us on facebook The Eye Shop Opticians

No ordinary Opticians, The eye shop is an Independent Opticians catering for those who are looking for a more personal service. State of the art testing facilities with high importance placed upon profe essionalism with a friendly warm atmosphere. Our eye tests are bespoke and take approximately 30 -40 minutes. Our Dispensing Opticians are highly experienced and equipped with technology that allows you, as our clients to make informed decisions befo ore a purchase. All service and products come with a money back guarantee.

T:01923 246 045 E: info@the-eye-shop.co.uk www.the-eye-shop.co.uk + More in--s store

p75_BUCKS_AD_VARIOUS__ 17/11/2011 10:13 Page 1

Comfort is… ®

simply another word for Stressless You only enjoy these unique comfort features on genuine Stressless® recliners. • Choice of up to three sizes for a tailor-made feel • Wide range of luxurious leathers and sumptuous fabrics

• Patented Stressless® Plus™ system for perfect support in any position • Headrest that adjusts in one simple movement • 10 year guarantee for years of comfort • Matching Stressless® sofas Experience the ultimate in comfort at our Stressless® Comfort studio today

Sheratons Rickmansworth Road Chorleywood Herts WD3 5SQ 01923 282 050 www.sheratons.co.uk Open 9.30am - 5.30pm Mon to Sat 11am - 3pm Sun | Closed Wed Stressless® Dream recliner

WINDOWS, DOORS, CONSERVATORIES, ORANGERIES AND STAIRCASES

HAMPSHIRE

TO THE UK LD

IN

SO

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01264 771900 The Fairground, Weyhill, Andover, Hampshire SP11 0ST www.inputwindows.co.uk | www.brightwood-conservatories.co.uk

MAD E

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IN BRITA

Our product range is virtually limitless, but includes; high performance doors and windows, staircases, conservatories, orangeries, lantern lights, sliding folding doors...just ask. Give us a call on:

DLY B

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Input Joinery Ltd was established in 1979 to produce all aspects of bespoke joinery. The company is based on the outskirts of Andover, Hampshire in a purpose built factory equipped with state-ofthe-art computer controlled machinery operated by traditionally skilled craftsmen.

OU PR

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FRANK HUDSON’S

FANTASTIC TWO DAY SALE

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intage furniture company Frank Hudson are delighted to invite you to their showrooms for a special 2 day sale on the 28th and 29th December. Passed down from generation to generation, Frank Hudson Ltd has been an integral part of High Wycombe for over 60 years; designing and creating a stunning collection of beds and bedroom furniture. During the 2 day sale, customers can expect to receive huge savings on all of their stunning products, ensuring that you find that perfect piece for your home at a fantastic price; saving your pennies for the new year. A wander around their luxurious showrooms will uncover gems such as the Spire bedroom collection which takes a classical, English look and gives it a modern twist. Handcrafted from the finest solid Ash and Walnut veneers, the entire range is reminiscent of vintage boudoirs, and cleverly incorporates his and hers needs. Highlights of the range include 76

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the option to completely customise how your bed looks from one day to the next. There are also matching dining and occasional pieces to complete the look. Surround yourself with the luxury of a Chesterfield bed, which is a dramatic centre-piece for any bedroom. Created using beautiful velveteen, the Chesterfield is reminiscent of

the sofas popular in centuries past, with a unique and modern twist that takes this bed into the 21st century and makes it an ultimate desirable piece. The roll top head and footboard echo traditional designs while its smooth, hand carved feet add a subtle modern hint to the bed. Accessorise the deep hues of the bedstead with metallic colours, like the

stunning Alexandria bedside cabinet in silver leaf to truly stand out from the crowd. Frank Hudson lovingly craft each piece using only the finest, ethically sourced materials from around the world. They use traditional carving techniques to produce each piece of furniture and ensure that the natural beauty of the wood used is maintained – so each item is unique and no two pieces are the same. From intricate carved detailing, dovetail jointing and hand polishing to finish, Frank Hudson believe that each item deserves the time and effort they put in to producing it. The showrooms are open during the week from 9am to 5pm and on Saturdays from 10am to 5pm throughout the year as well as for their 2 day sale on the 28th and 29th December. Visit Frank Hudson at: Rosebery Avenue, Pinions, High Wycombe, Bucks HP13 7AH Tel: 01494 522011 info@frankhudson.com www.frankhudson.com

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ST GILES FURNITURE

THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME!

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s a bespoke furniture business we have many years experience in designing, creating and fitting custom furniture solutions. For most of that time we have been based in Chalfont St Giles, however, in September 2009 we opened our first High Street studio in Gerrards Cross, a huge achievement for our small family run business. Two years on we found ourselves wondering – how successful had the showroom been? Should we stay on the High Street? How would things progress over the next two years? The answers to all these questions can be debated endlessly (and probably will be!) A 39% growth means the showroom has been highly successful. A double shop front on the High Street has enabled us to showcase all that we are good at! Many people (local and otherwise) are now aware of our brand and business model and 78

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understand that we are a family run company with our own workshop here in the UK offering a fully individual service to everyone from a bedside chest to a fully fitted kitchen. The last two years proved that the majority of our business is done in our clients’ own homes. Our free design service for any piece of fitted or free standing furniture means we are lucky enough to be invited to many locations to discuss design ideas for all aspects of lounge, bedroom, study, dining, and kitchen furniture. This has resulted in us having a wonderful network of people since word of mouth recommendation really is the heart of our family business. This is a great way for us to work on innovative ideas and much better for the client as it is so much easier to visualise ideas and colours with a designer whilst in your own home. Given the huge changes

which have taken place over the last two years in Gerrards Cross and the fact that so much of our work is on site with our clients’ we decided that it was a good time to move back to our roots! Have you ever been to our showroom in Chalfont St Giles? Situated at the top of a steep winding driveway, which many people don’t even realise is there, lies a little treasure trove! It’s a busy place twice the size of our Gerrards Cross showroom with a high foot fall and a great atmosphere which our clients love. It’s been a furniture shop for over 25 years, has ample car parking right outside the showroom and other small cottage industries which compliment our business and give a nice feel to the whole site. Picture framing, re-claimed furniture, antiques and a Home Emporium selling vintage furniture and accessories, all add to the ambience of this site. Our newly refurbished showroom

will feature a fully fitted kitchen display alongside fitted and free-standing study, bedroom, lounge and dining room furniture. Cosy sofas, beautiful bespoke chairs and endless soft furnishings and accessories with a difference will make us a one-stop shop for all your furnishing needs. In the end it was easy to make the decision to leave Gerrards Cross and re-locate back to St Giles. The last two years have been fantastic for our business but it’s time to move back home! Our brand new refurbished furniture and interiors showroom in Chalfont St Giles will be open from mid December, prior to that there will be some fantastic clearance items for sale in our Gerrards Cross showroom. We hope to see you very soon in our new (but really very old!) home! London Road, Chalfont St Giles, Buckinghamshire HP8 4NN T. 01494 873031 E. info@stgilesfurniture.com

p79_BUCKS_AD_VARIOUS__ 16/11/2011 15:53 Page 1

CHRISTMAS EXHIBITION

“Beauty in Everyday Things” : Oils,14” x 18” by Lucy McKie

ROI

original paintings, sculpture, studio glass and ceramics 26 November - 17 December

SAVEWITHMONEY BUCKINGHAM’SENERGY SAVINGPRODUCTS ENSURE COMPLETE PEACE OF MIND BY CHOOSING BUCKINGHAM

Open Tuesdays to Saturdays 10 - 5

T H E H A W K E R G A L L E RY

The Maltings, of f School Lane, Old Amersham 01494 724850 w w w. t h e h a w ke r ga l l e r y. c o. u k

CALL US NOW

and see how you can REDUCE YOUR FUEL BILLS THIS WINTER

TEL 01494 791 111 / 01494 791 999 Amersham Road, Chesham, Bucks HP5 1NG

WEBSITE

www.buckdg.com

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THE BEST BED LINEN IN THE WORLD ENSURES YOU SLEEP EASY! THERE IS A SAYING THAT IF YOU SLEEP WELL YOU LIVE LONGER.... A CONCEPT THAT THE BEST BED LINEN IN THE WORLD EMBRACES. WHO IS THE BEST BED LINEN IN THE WORLD?

The Best Bed Linen in the World is an exciting online retailer selling the very finest bed linen direct to the consumer. Born from Tradelinens (who have been supplying the world’s top 5 star hotels for over 20 years), The Best Bed Linen in the World now offers their 5+ hotel quality luxurious collection of bedding, bath robes and towels direct to discerning consumers, and at a fraction of the price you would expect to pay. Trade Linen hotel customers locally include Hartwell House, The Grove, The Crown in Amersham, Stoke Place as well as The Connaught, Claridges and Savoy in London. Tradelinens became aware that their bed linen was becoming a talking point. Indeed on check out hotel receptionists were being asked countless times, “Can we buy the bed linen we slept in last night?” These requests were passed on to Trade Linens, but as a trade supplier they obviously had to decline these requests. It was only when demand increased dramatically that Trade Linens decided to hold a small amount of consumer stock. With an impressive record of around 200 happy customers, this small operation was made permanent and thebestbedlinenintheworld.com was created. The website sells the highest quality bed linen using only the finest materials and processes as 80

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well as spa quality bath robes for a sense of pure indulgence and towels which are made from 100% Pure Combed Cotton, weighing in at 650gms per square metre, the sumptuous luxury towels are incredibly soft against the skin and evoke that lovely spa feeling after every bath. The luxury bed linen has a 400 thread count percale; using only the finest cotton yarns to ensure the softest and most comfortable sleep; hotel-quality duvets and pillows for superb drape, warmth and comfort; towels made from 100% cotton; and incredibly durable double-sided bath rugs, weighing 1700gsm. WHAT MAKES THE BEST BED IN LINEN IN THE WORLD DIFFERENT?

There are many other companies selling bed linen, towels, pillows and duvets and claiming their products to be of “five star quality” or “as used in five star hotels”. In some cases this may be true. However, at thebestbedlinenintheworld.com you can be a guaranteed that this is the case. The only products sold are all currently in use in prestigious five star hotels. Buying bed linen is confusing and sometimes misleading; there is so much information and choice available to the public in terms of thread counts, weights and sizes that it becomes almost impossible to tell which offers the best quality, the best value for money, is most durable, and most

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house garden appropriate. The Best Bed Linen in the World offers a limited yet exclusive range as enjoyed by its exacting hotel customers! The collection is considered to be the best products available. This is why only 400 & 300 thread counts are used, as this is the linen of choice for most hotels and offers optimum comfort and longevity. In addition they sell only 650gm towels, pure goose down or micro-fibre duvets and pillows, a heavyweight and a lightweight robe which are all selected and approved by experienced and discerning housekeepers.

advice from The Best Bed Linen in the World LOOKING AFTER BED LINEN:

It will come as no surprise that hotels require impressive longevity in the products they purchase. Housekeepers will put all new products through a rigorous test. As a result The Best Bed Linen in the World is supremely confident that their linen will offer customers many years of satisfaction...Good quality bed sheets can last for 20 years if cared well cared for. Here are some tips for ensuring your bed linen enjoys a long and happy life! Buy quality sheets. Don’t buy anything too dense - for optimum comfort and care the maximum thread-count worth considering should be no higher than 600T. The ideal thread-count is 400T percale. A great tip is if you see a high thread-count always ask to make sure a fine single ply yarn is used. Wash your sheets at 60 degrees with a little mild detergent but avoid using fabric softener. Don’t feel you have to buy polyester for crease free bedding. Polyester is quite uncomfortable to sleep under and hot in the summer. The truth is, if a high quality cotton yarn is used and it is finished properly, 100% Cotton bed linen shouldn’t crease that much and any lines should fall out after a few hours use. Take sheets out of the dryer before completely dry. This will help avoid wrinkles. If you find sheets you like, buy

multiple sets. Neutral colours are always a good option as they won’t date. White will still be fresh and current even in 20 years.

something very special! With Christmas around the corner this could be the perfect present for the man or woman who truly has everything… EIDER DOWN DUVET:

This amazing Eider Down Duvet offers “warmth without weight”. It is cased with super soft 100% Cotton Down-Proof cambric; finished to the highest level to prevent even a single fibre of down escaping. The eider is a large, arctic duck, which has been protected by law in Iceland for over a century. Every spring it returns ashore from its habitat, the North Atlantic ocean, makes a nest and sheds 17 gram of precious, very light down. Gathered in an environmentally friendly way and specially cleaned using secret technology which leaves Icelandic eiderdown without contest in quality. Due to its astonishing heat retention, a very small quantity of this down is required to achieve a far more satisfying result than a duvet stuffed full of feathers. With sizes from Single to Super King and weighing from just 690g, this unrivalled ‘winter warmer’ will become a family heirloom, costing £8, 750 (for

Super King)... ‘Duvet Days’ will never be the same again! WHY BUY FROM THE BEST BED LINEN IN THE WORLD?

Robert Lancaster Gaye, of The Best Bed Linen in the World says “From the outset we were keen to offer the very best of everything; which is why we have limited and selective ranges to choose from. Our ethos is definitely about the quality not the quantity. This philosophy has underpinned everything we do, from sourcing our suppliers to selecting materials. We know that dye in bed linen sits in the yarn and stops it from breathing. Our linen remains a brilliant white and clean from any dye – so not only does it look beautiful, feel sublime and last for years, but it is also much kinder to the skin. We’re committed to provide consumers with luxury, soft furnishings that they can enjoy in their own home.” With a number of exciting new products in the pipeline, such as a dust-proof feather/down hybrid pillow with individual compartments and a range of specially created Kids’ Pillows there are exciting times ahead. The Best Bed Linen in the World invites you to join their thousands of delighted customers… Follow us on Twitter and Facebook www.thebestbedlinenintheworld.com NOVEMBER2011 81

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p83_BUCKS_AD_VARIOUS__ 17/11/2011 12:50 Page 1

Que sera, sera.

Will she be rich? Will she be pretty? No one can predict what the future will hold for you or your family, but we can help you plan for it. Our top ranked legal team organise family wealth across generations and, where possible, mitigate substantial amounts of tax. We advise you on lifetime planning and drafting a clearly structured Will to help protect you and your family. We provide peace of mind and security now and for your future, whatever that will be.

talk to the experts

01753 889 995 www.bpcollins.co.uk

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MONEYHILL

INTERIORS LTD 1 Moneyhill Parade, Uxbridge Road, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire WD3 7BQ Phone: 01923 773906 email: celia@moneyhillinteriors.com www.moneyhillinteriors.com

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VISITORS WELCOME ON VILLAGE GREEN FAIRGREEN PLACE, CROXLEY GREEN, HERTFORDSHIRE WD3 3HJ

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he show house is now open at Fairgreen Place, on The Green, the most idyllic location in the village of Croxley Green, Hertfordshire. Octagon, well known for their award winning luxury homes, have designed these 5 and 6 bedroom homes with country-loving commuters in mind; Croxley Green is close to Croxley station on the Metropolitan Line, which goes directly into Baker Street. Situated between Rickmansworth and Watford, Croxley Green is a top favourite with growing families, being pleasantly rural, with its two large protected greens, picturesque Parish Church, ancient barn, local general stores, a number of attractive pubs and restaurants, and not least, within easy reach of excellent primary and independent schools. Classically built, each of the three Octagon homes in Fairgreen Place has been individually designed and constructed in mellow stock brick with stone dressings. All

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have double garages, and share the same advanced specification and contemporary interior fittings. Ceramic stone tiled entrance halls lead into a generous expanse of living space, including drawing room, dining room, study, and large open plan kitchen and family room. Upstairs are five or six bedrooms, and all incorporating four bathrooms, the Master and Guest with

their own en-suites. Octagon’s renowned quality is apparent throughout, from the discreet underfloor heating, sleek custom-built kitchens with integrated Siemens appliances, separate utility rooms with washer/dryers, bespoke fitted wardrobes, sumptuous marble Master bathrooms, and an advanced communications installation for internet, surround sound

and security systems. Outside, gardens for each of the houses have been lavishly landscaped and planted, with ample space for guest parking on their large paved forecourts. Prices at Fairgreen Place start from £1.95m. The showhouse is open Thursday - Monday from 10.00 until 1700 or can be viewed at other times through Sewell & Gardner tel 01923 776400.

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propert y life

VISITORS WELCOME ON VILLAGE GREEN FAIRGREEN PLACE, CROXLEY GREEN, HERTFORDSHIRE WD3 3HJ

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he show house is now open at Fairgreen Place, on The Green, the most idyllic location in the village of Croxley Green, Hertfordshire. Octagon, well known for their award winning luxury homes, have designed these 5 and 6 bedroom homes with country-loving commuters in mind; Croxley Green is close to Croxley station on the Metropolitan Line, which goes directly into Baker Street. Situated between Rickmansworth and Watford, Croxley Green is a top favourite with growing families, being pleasantly rural, with its two large protected greens, picturesque Parish Church, ancient barn, local general stores, a number of attractive pubs and restaurants, and not least, within easy reach of excellent primary and independent schools. Classically built, each of the three Octagon homes in Fairgreen Place has been individually designed and

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constructed in mellow stock brick with stone dressings. All have double garages, and share the same advanced specification and contemporary interior fittings. Ceramic stone tiled entrance halls lead into a generous expanse of living space, including drawing room, dining room, study, and large open plan kitchen and family room. Upstairs are five or six bedrooms, and all incorporating

four bathrooms, the Master and Guest with their own en-suites. Octagon’s renowned quality is apparent throughout, from the discreet underfloor heating, sleek custom-built kitchens with integrated Siemens appliances, separate utility rooms with washer/dryers, bespoke fitted wardrobes, sumptuous marble Master bathrooms, and an advanced communications installation for

internet, surround sound and security systems. Outside, gardens for each of the houses have been lavishly landscaped and planted, with ample space for guest parking on their large paved forecourts. Each house is priced at £1.95m. The showhouse is open Thursday-Monday from 10.00 until 1700 or can be viewed at other times through Sewell & Gardner tel 01923 776400.

p90_BUCKS_AD_VARIOUS_Layout 1 16/11/2011 17:27 Page 1

p91_BUCKS_TFMG__ 16/11/2011 13:28 Page 1

business feature

n today’s sophisticated financial market, many people have death-in-service benefits through their employment or death benefits via their pension scheme. These benefits are generally not considered an estate asset and are regarded as free from inheritance tax (IHT). However, even though these death benefits are not treated as estate assets, there is a potential IHT problem. Generally speaking most people nominate their death benefit to be paid directly to their spouse or partner. As a result, because the benefit is not treated as an asset of the estate, on the first death there is no liability to IHT. However, IHT liability arises on the second death. For example, on the death of the first spouse, the death-in-service pays a lump sum to the survivor. This is

BY USING A SPOUSAL BY-PASS TRUST, NOT ONLY CAN THE SURVIVOR HAVE THE FULL BENEFIT OF THE MONIES PAYABLE BUT AN IHT SAVING CAN BE MADE AT THE SAME TIME! outside the estate for tax purposes. Once however the benefits of the policy have been paid to the survivor they then become an asset of their estate. Subsequently, when the survivor passes away their estate (which would include any death-in-service benefit monies) is subject to IHT at 40% on the value of the estate in excess of the IHT threshold!! This tax problem can be avoided by nominating the death-in-service benefit or pension death benefit into a trust. The trust is held outside the survivor’s estate (and therefore not subject to IHT on

the survivor’s death) however the survivor can be a beneficiary of the trust and receive funds. Even more beneficially the trust can be drafted with power to loan monies to the survivor. As a result the survivor will have full use of the funds to invest or spend, or live off the income as they see fit. However, as a loan has been made from the trust a liability has been created which can be paid out of the survivor’s estate on their death thereby reducing the value of the estate for IHT purposes. By using a spousal by-pass trust, not only can the survivor have the full benefit of the

monies payable but an IHT saving can be made at the same time! In addition a Spousal Bypass Trust is an excellent way of ensuring that your children continue to be the ultimate beneficiary of your Estate and it can also be used to shelter monies in the future away from the clutches of local Government should nursing home fees have to be paid. To see if the above is suitable for you or to arrange a no cost initial meeting contact: Alister Mellor The Financial Management Group Montague House 23 Woodside Road Amersham Buckinghamshire HP6 6AA Tel: 01494 434555 Fax: 01494 434566 E: amellor@tfmg.co.uk W: www.tfmg.co.uk NOVEMBER2011 91

p92_BUCKS_RECIPE__ 16/11/2011 13:28 Page 1

& Photo © Noel Murphy - courtesy of www.greatbritishchefs.com

food driNk

saddle of Chiltern Venison with Caramelised shallots, salt Baked CeleriaC, hawthorn Berry and rosehip emulsion, Venison sauCe

OUR INSPIRATION FOR THIS DISH WAS TO USE A SEASONAL, LOCALLY SUSTAINABLE QUALITY PRODUCT FROM OUR VERY OWN CHILTERN HILLS, WILD SHOT VENISON FROM STOKENCHURCH. BAKING THE CELERIAC WITH A SALT CRUST AND DOUGLAS FIR PINE NEEDLES GIVES AN AROMATIC FESTIVE AROMA WITH AN INTENSE FLAVOUR. THE FORAGED ROSEHIPS AND HAWTHORN BERRIES ADD AN EXCELLENT ACIDITY TO THE DISH. THESE INGREDIENTS CAN BE EASILY SUBSTITUTED WITH MORE READILY AVAILABLE CITRUS PEEL FOR THE PINE NEEDLES AND CRANBERRIES FOR THE FORAGED BERRIES.

ingredients 4 x 150g wild shot venison steak cut from the saddle Approx 50g butter and olive oil for frying 4 baby shallots halved caramelised and then peeled 4 egg whites A small handful Douglas fir pine needles (if not available alternatively use some citrus peel) 150 g rock salt 1 whole celeriac 2 heads of cavolo nero – picked off the stalk and washed 100 g hawthorn berry 100 g rosehips (can be substituted with 200 g cranberries) 200 ml orange juice 50 g caster sugar Venison Jus 500ml chicken stock 150g roasted venison bones 2 carrots 1 stick celery 2 onions 2 cloves garlic 80ml red wine 92

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Method

Emulsion 1. Cook the berries in the orange juice with the sugar in a small pan until tender. 2. Liquidise and pass through a fine sieve Salt Baked Celeriac 3. Make a mixture of rock salt with the egg white to form a paste 4. Chop the Douglas fir needles and add to the mixture 5. Pat the salt mixture around the celeriac and place on a baking tray and bake at 180 degrees for 40 minutes 6. Then crack open the salt crust, peel and cube the celeriac Venison Jus 8. Roughly chop and sweat the vegetables until lightly caramelized 9. Pour in the wine and reduce 10. Add the roasted venison bones, top up with chicken stock and simmer for 30 minutes

11. Take out the bones and pass through a muslin 12. Reduce by three quarters

Great British Chefs

To serve 13. Blanch the cavolo nero in boiling salted water for 2 minutes 14. Plunge into ice cold water 15. Drain and squeeze out the excess water 16. Re-heat in hot butter and season well 17. Pan fry the venison steaks in butter until caramelized all over, season and cook in the oven Gas 6 200 degrees C, for approx 12 minutes. 18. Rest for 8-10 minutes then slice and serve 19. Brush a strip of the emulsion across the plate 20. Place the buttered cavolo nero on the plate off centre, then on top put the venison, after place the caramelized shallot, salt baked celeriac cubesfinally finish with the venison jus

This recipe features on an exciting new website called Great British Chefs www.greatbritishchefs.com where you can view my chef’s profile and recipes together with many of the leading chefs of Great Britain.

The Artichoke is open for lunch and dinner from Tuesday to Saturday. The Artichoke Restaurant, 9 Market Square, Old Amersham Tel: 01494 726611 www.theartichokerestaurant.co.uk

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p95_BUCKS_SPLENIFEROUS__ 16/11/2011 16:32 Page 1

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urkey Ahoy! As we say farewell to pumpkins and ghoulies and a warm hello to eggnog and sprouts and the ‘most wonderful time of the year’, here at Splendiferous Claire Gallagher is ready for a very busy festive season. Christmas is for many of us a time to get together with those we love and share a

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CHRISTMAS joyous, celebratory dinner-something which should gladden all hearts, but as many of us know from experience it can turn into a stressful and ultimately not very enjoyable experience. The Christmas planning courses are therefore always very popular and this year Splendiferous will be welcoming Christmas parties, team building groups and lots of fantastic ladies and gents into the kitchen here in Gerrards Cross to learn some helpful hints for a stress-free Christmas dinner and try out some of their delicious recipes. Guests are shown lots of mouth-watering dishes for entertaining or just for a bit of indulgence at home and the relaxing atmosphere means you can participate as much as you want or just sit back, relax and enjoy some of the delicious festive treats created by Claire! The scents of Christmas are already warming the welcoming house in Gerrards Cross where all the new Splendiferous products are being Made with Love. As

well as some fabulously tangy cranberry mincemeat and an irresistible almond roca Claire has developed two special gluten-free products, an indulgent chocolaty Christmas cake and a traditional Christmas pudding with all the goodness but none of the gluten! She will be showcasing all of these at Fisher’s Fair in Gerrards Cross this Saturday 19th November and will also be demonstrating a heavenly Shrimp Malabar full of warming eastern flavours, but if you miss it don’t worry as her gourmet puddings and cakes will be available throughout December from Fisher’s in Gerrards Cross. Of course it doesn’t end there! Sometimes a party demands a lot more of the hostess than a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie and that is why Claire is already busy creating gorgeous canapés galore and splendid buffets across the South Bucks area. Every party should be special and Claire is an expert in creating bespoke menus to make your event that little bit different with everything taken

care of to ensure perfect food and a fuss-free entertaining experience. With all the rush of getting ready for the big day it can also be stressful thinking about what to get that special person – worry no more! Splendiferous gift certificates are a fantastic present for anyone who loves food, entertaining and having fun. Shipped to you already gift-wrapped they come with a beautiful linen tea towel and a mixing spoon and can be used for classes throughout 2012. And then after the turkey has been cooked (and eaten in all its guises), we are all partied out and our feet have been up for a week or more, it’s time to dust off the gym shoes and think about some healthful New Year strategies. And yes, Splendiferous DOES have a plan! Hungry for Fitness is a brand new course for January to help you kick-start all your resolutions. A brilliant collaboration between personal trainer James Marshall of Positive Impact Training and

Splendiferous, the half-day course combines fitness training, healthful snacks and shakes and a demonstration by Claire showing you how to make some fresh and fabulous food to keep you on the straight and narrow and chase away any mid-winter blues. Familiar favourites also return in the New Year with the popular ‘Special Teas into Sumptuous Suppers’ course full of delicious ideas for all your family from toddlers to teens and through to the grown-ups. And for when you really don’t want to step back into the kitchen why not also consider sending your beloved on the ‘Dad/Darling is doing Dinner’ course– an opportunity for the man in your life to do some male bonding while learning some meaty, treaty, hearty and beefy dishes to impress you with! When planning your next dinner party, Christmas or Team Building event, why not give Claire a call to discuss your needs or check out her website www.splendiferous.co.uk for more info on upcoming cookery courses, gift vouchers & events. NOVEMBER2011 95

p96_BUCKS_TASTEOFXMAS__ 16/11/2011 16:36 Page 1

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aste of Christmas has ever yything thing the discerning foodie foodie oo could ood desire: a boutique ffood oo market, the hottest new products, the biggest name chef effs and over a dozen of London’s starriest restaurants. There’s no better place to shop, eat, drink and indulge - which is what Christmas is all about! Ever yone who is anyone in the world of great British food will be in attendance. From cheesemakers to ffood ood critics,, sommeliers to cooker y writers,, bakers to winemakers, win they ’ ll all be there to share 96

NOVEMBER2011

their favourite food food and a ng for wine. Anyone looking for inspiration ffor or a truly magical Christmas will certainly ďŹ nd it thanks to Tast aste of Christmas’’ brilliant team of top cheffs,, ffood ood personalities and restaurateurs who promise to divulge all their best-kept Christmas secrets to make your Christmas sparkle. A major draw of Taste of Christmas 2011 , in common with previous years,, w will be the chance to sample Christmas-time signature dishes fr f rom the cream of the capital’s restaurants. They ’ ll

all be available in perfectly proportioned ‘tasting’ portions so visitors can ďŹ t in as many exciting gustator y experiences as possible. True inspiration for for a Ch Christmas dinner with a di er erence! Fans of celebrittyy cheffs won’t be disappointed as there will be unparalleled access to some well known faces and opportunities to ‘meet m the cheffs’’ and go behind-thescenes as the ever-popular Taste Cooker y School and Taste Theatre return once more. Cheffss conďŹ rmed include: Jamie Oliver, Hugh Fearnley--W hittingstall, Rachel Allen,, Gar y Rhodes, Michel Roux Jr, A Atul t Kochhar, tul Lawrence Keogh,, Simon Rogan and Theo Randall. Taste off Christmas mas isn’t just ffor or grown-up gourmets. Children can enjoy the fun of a great family day oout at Taste with activities,, demo dem nstrations and indulgences on o er er that are guaranteed to put a smile on the face of

young budding ffoodies. oo oodies. Central to the show are those things that make the true ffoodie oodie’s heart beat faster - namely cheese, wine, beer, co ee ee and,, of course, chocolate! All favourite Christmas indulgences. New products,, tutor t ed tastings and samples galore will be on show with entire areas dedicated to single foodstu s such as the Taste Cheese and Wine Theatre. All the season’s ‘must haves’ will be there too such as that all-important fr f ree-range turkey, boozy Christmas pud, truckle of Stilton and bottle of sherr y for for Santa. In short, ever ything that ’s needed to make this Christmas a cracker. Be sure not to miss Jamie Oliver and Hugh FearnleyW hittingstall who will be joining culinar y ffor oorces in a Taste of Christmas ďŹ rst with a live demonstration to open the show exclusively to 2000 lucky ticket holders. If it ’s more about adding to the season of good will, maaybe an exclusive Dining ticket to Jamie Oliver’s Big Feastival pop-up restaurant will do the trick. ÂŁ2 ever y ticket sold goes to the Jamie Oliver Foundation,, with the big hearted chef making an appearance ffor or the ďŹ rst ser ving you better get your skates on as there are only 2,500 tickets up for for o grabs. All tickets for for Taste of Christmas will be available at a variety of price points to suit all the family. Also available this year will be the ver y popular VIP tickets that allow fast-track entr y and include extra-special tastings,, priorittyy boo b king and a festiv festive glass of Champagne. For those looking ng for for one last daayy of stress-ff ree indulgence beffor ore the preChristmas planning starts in earnest - or for for an early Christmas presentt ffor or a food-loving fr f riend - a VIP ticket is hard to beat. For further inffor ormation about Tastte off Christmas please visit www.ttastteoffchristmas.com

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p98_BUCKS_CHOCOLATE__ 16/11/2011 16:34 Page 1

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Chocolate E

hat do you do if you really want something special or and just can’t ďŹ nd it? W hen all you yearn ffor o is just the best of its kind in the world - and no-one seems to have produced it; at least not to the standard you desire? If you are Roy and Tracey Jones you initially scour the earth for for a key ingr g edient dient and,, when you have ďŹ nally tracked it down,, you create what you were looking for for in the ďŹ rst ďŹ r place - the world’s ďŹ n ďŹ nest luxur y chocolate experience. “I wanted to buy a ver y special present for for a ver y special person on a ver y special day - her 40th birthdaay,â€? explains Tracey. “Like me she is a chocoholic! I went to the top-end departments stores and even some of the little luxur y chocolate boutiques but just could not ďŹ nd what I wanted. There is a lot of nice chocolate about, of course, but,, I don’t know, there was alwaays something missing. It was ver y f rustrating and in the end I bought her something else entirely.â€?That was the beginning but by no means the end of a ttw wo year journey which has reached a triumphant conclusion with the launch of ‘the Chocolate’ Roy and Tracey ’s new business dedicated to producing ‘the best luxur y chocolate experience in the world.’

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In its simplest for form we are talking about an amazing ‘experience’. Handmade trues using an award winning, secret recipe Italian chocolate, ďŹ lled with champagne, aked with edible ed 24-carat gold all enclosed within a bespoke handcraffted boutique box encrusted with more than 450 Swarovski Cr ystals inside and out. Also made by hand no tw two of these boxes will ever be the same. The chocolate itself is 63% Toscano Black sourced ffrrom a tiny aartisan chocolate maker based just outside historic Pisa. The cocoa beans are reďŹ ned using a traditional granite stone mill and the result has been judged by the Academy of Chocolate as oďŹƒcially the best in the world. W hat experts call the ganache - basically the mixture of cocoa,, cream and a variety of other ingredients to ffor orm 98

NOVEMBER2011

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what consumers think ink of as,, well,, the chocolate - that forms ‘the Chocolate’ is a closely guarded secret but Roy and Tracey are happy to conďŹ rm that there are several glasses of champagne added to the normal recipe. “As we make ever ything ourselves we can,, of course, produce ‘the Chocolate’ without alcohol if requir q ed,â€? commented Tracey. G G=C 3/B B63 5=:2=C 3/B B63 5=:2-

It ’s the world’s most expensive ffoodstu oodstu and has been n eaten ffor or millennia. Although the Ancient Egyptians believed it gave or ‘the them immortality no such claims are made ffor Chocolate.’ (yet). However other authorities do claim that gold has many attributes when eaten, including generating a higher IQ Q, Q managing m rheumatoid arthritis,, developing mystic power ealth hyy liffee. and contributing to a long and health More seriously it is authorised ffor oor use in food products in both Europe and the USA. High quality chocolate also has its enthusiasts. They claim that chocolate with over 60% cocoa content (‘the Chocolate’ has 63%) reduces blood pressure, decreases the chance of both diabetes and heart attack, improves the memor y and even eases a persistent cough amongst a plethora of other attributes. Be that as it maayy the fact remains that ‘the Chocolate’ has a fantastic taste that will exceed the expectations of the wildest choccie enthusiast. And the memor y of the experience will last and last. B63 >@=2C1BA( B63 >@=2C1BA(

Available online at the-chocolate.com and exclusively at Box contains 15 chocolates minimum Harrods, d , the h Boutique B and a weight of 200 grammes. It retails at ÂŁ190 including postage and packing. Deliver y of this unique hand-made spe product is within ďŹ ve daayys or can be expressed ffor or speciďŹ c deliver y date. The Bambina is a one chocolate box experience, which retails at ÂŁ50 including postage and packing. Available online and exclusively at Har Harrods For morree inffor ormation on the Chocolatte visit:: www.the-chocolate.com

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