Buckslife sept15 lr by Fish Media Group Ltd

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DREAM WEDDINGS

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p03-Bucks-EdsLetter.qxp__ 11/09/2015 11:26 Page 1

FROM THE

AMULET

EDITOR

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Welcome to our September issue…

PUBLISHED BY FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD EDITOR Faye Manning

FASHION EDITOR Nicholas Peter

SALES Abi Gardner

EDITOR’S ASSISTANT Katie Miller

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER 07932 608 797

ACCOUNT MANAGER Kathy Manning, Ken Fleet

SUB EDITOR Alex Lux

DESIGN/PRODUCTION Jason Daniel

DIRECTORS Patrick Smith, Rory Smith

© 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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CONTENTS LOVE LOCAL

Tring Museum Kop Hill Climb Membership Open Day The Great Outdoors Marlow Fun Run Local Hospice Shop Chilterns Hidden Gem Beautiful Beaconsfield Family Days Out

CULTURE GUIDE

Your Guide To Culture This Autumn & Winter

EDUCATION GUIDE

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p10-Bucks-TringScience.qxp__ 10/09/2015 15:27 Page 1

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SCIENCE UNCOVERED European Researchers’ Night

FRIDAY 25 SEPTEMBER, 18.00-22.00 • THE NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM AT TRING • FREE EVENT

©Trustees of the NHM, London

or one night only, discover the Natural History Museum at Tring’s hidden wonders at Science Uncovered: European Researchers’ Night, the annual free after-hours science festival on Friday 25 September 2015. Get up-close to cutting-edge science and meet the people who make it happen. See treasures that are rarely on public display and chat with Museum curators who will be on hand to unravel their mysteries. Discover the Museum’s science and what it means to you. LISTEN TO TALKS BY SCIENTIFIC EXPERTS The Quest for the Tasmanian Tiger. The last living Thylacine or Tasmanian Tiger died in 1936, but rumours of its existence persist to this day. Could this mysterious animal have survived in the wilderness of Tasmania, or is it as dead as a dodo? Last of the Species. See some of the Museum's rarest specimens and find out how scientists work with such a unique collection. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, 79 mammals have become extinct in the last 500 years and many more are still under threat. The Museum's collections can represent the last chance for us to learn more about these species. John Gilbert of The Never Never, an Explorer-Naturalist in Australia. John Gilbert was an Englishman so enigmatic there is no known image of him, but he is so revered by Australians that they named a major river, two mountains, a view and an aeroplane after him. Gilbert discovered more than 8% of all Australia’s birds and mammals between 1838 and 1845. He sent specimens of them back to England, where his employer John Gould used them to describe hundreds of new species. 1 0 SEPTEMBER 2015

Plus join a live streaming of four talks from Science Uncovered at the Natural History Museum, London. PLAY WITH SCIENCE Discover some six-legged creatures in our Insects are Amazing feature. Meet Giant Prickly Stick Insects from Australia, try our Bug Zoom Game challenge and learn about the fascinating lives of insects from around the world. GET CLOSERTOTHE MUSEUM’S COLLECTION Watch a demonstration of how skins are prepared for use in the Museum and have an up-close encounter with specimens from the national bird collection and books from the Rothschild library. RELAX WITH A DRINK If you're after a more relaxed evening, head to our pop-up Quadrangle Bar where you'll find Tring Brewery beers, local ciders, wine and soft drinks. Science Uncovered is your chance to discover what goes on behind-the-scenes at the Natural History Museum at Tring, so pop down and learn more about the life of researchers and curators and find out new and exciting facts about the world we live in. ■

THE DETAILS Free event Friday 25 September, 18.00-22.00 For more details visit www.nhm.ac.uk/tring The Natural History Museum at Tring Akeman Street,Tring, Hertfordshire HP23 6AP

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p12-Bucks-KopHillClimb.qxp__ 11/09/2015 09:39 Page 1

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KOP HILL CLIMB W

ould you like to spend a day or two in the rolling Chiltern Hills amongst hundreds of outstanding vintage, classic and modern vehicles and motorcycles? Perhaps spend time with the family taking in the sights and sounds of the Paddock whilst fundraising for the local community? Well you can on the 19th and 20th September when Kop Hill Climb returns for the revival of the original event, which takes place annually in Princes Risborough, and is now in its seventh year. During that time it has grown into an internationally recognised weekend for enthusiasts and families alike, and attendance figures have climbed steadily each year, topping 15,000 in 2014. This is great news for local charities, which benefitted last year from £48,500 in donations. An amazing crowd puller in 2013, the Napier-Railton from Brooklands Museum will appear on Saturday 19th. This huge 24 litre, two-ton goliath is a sight to behold. With a top speed of 165mph plus, it should have no trouble in taking on the famous hill. New for 2015, the 1922 Isle of Man TT winning Sunbeam Grand Prix car, will appear on Sunday 20th. Choosing Kop Hill Climb for its first street legal appearance in the UK is the VŪHL 05 lightweight supercar. The all-carbon bodywork weighs a mere 695kg, with 0-60mph in 3.5 seconds and top speed of over 150mph. Go to www.vuhlautomotive.com to fully appreciate this remarkable car. Kop Hill Climb is thrilled to play host to a vintage steam fair, and centre stage will be a 50ft high helter-skelter - perfect for gaining a good vantage point of the whole event. Back by popular demand are Haurel and Lardy, recreating the legendary double act and bringing with them this year none other than…. Charlie Chaplin! Enter if you dare the Wall of Death, entertaining the crowds since the 1920’s in a thrilling display of skill. You’ve seen

them on the BBC - now experience it in real life. Kop Hill is one of the oldest Hill Climb venues in England. The first recorded races were in 1910. It became a major event on the motorsports car and motorcycle calendar and many famous drivers and riders of the time, including Malcolm Campbell, Raymond Mays, Henry Seagrave and Count Zborowski raced up the hill. The last event was in 1925, when as a result of an accident to a spectator, the RAC banned all motorsport on public roads. Today Kop Hill is a public road, and is closed to traffic during the event. The objective of the Kop Hill Climb revival is to raise money for local charities. All the organising team and helpers are volunteers, and the event is managed as a part of the Heart of Bucks Community Foundation. Over £240,000 has been raised since the revival started in 2009. Come and be a part of this very special event, and help local community projects and charities. Advance tickets are available now .Visit the website www.kophillclimb.org.uk for ticket details and information on the event. Booking in advance guarantees your admission and avoids possible queues at the entrance. Advance tickets are also available from Princes Risborough Information Centre located in the library at Princes Risborough. ■

THE DETAILS Phone 01844 274795 On the day tickets £10 Weekend ticket £15 Half day grandstand £5 with limited availability so book early to secure your place. Children 12 and under go free Parking is free Spectator gates open at 9.00am each day Kop Hill runs from 9.45am to 1.00pm and 2.00pm to 5.15pm each day

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p14-Bucks-StokePark.qxp__ 11/09/2015 13:36 Page 1

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STOKE PARK

Invitation: Membership Open Day, Sunday 4th October

e are delighted to invite you to become a member of Stoke Park and attend our special Open Day on Sunday 4th October from 11am - 5pm. If you would like to attend and see first-hand the world-class facilities available at Stoke Park, or for more information about the different Memberships on offer, please contact the Membership team on 01753 717179 or email membership@stokepark.com Guests who attend the Open Day will benefit from an exclusive discount offer to join the Club. Founded in 1908 as the UK’s first Country Club, members join Stoke Park to take advantage of the unique combination of the traditions of an exclusive Members’ Club and the best of today’s sporting, leisure, entertaining and hotel facilities. Set within 300 acres of beautiful private parkland estate in Stoke Poges, Buckinghamshire, Stoke Park is only 35 minutes from London and 7 miles from Heathrow Airport. FACILITIES INCLUDE: • 27 hole Championship Golf Course, designed by the legendary golf architect, Harry Colt in 1908 1 4 SEPTEMBER 2015

• All-Weather Range • Indoor Swing Studio • Indoor Pool with Hydro Seats • State-of-the-art Gymnasium newly kitted with Star Trac equipment • Fitness, Hot Yoga and Spinning Studios • 49 bedrooms & suites (5 AA Red Stars) • Award winning Spa • 13 Tennis Courts (indoor, grass and floodlit artificial clay) • Créche, Games Room and Playground With 7 Day Golf Membership only £3,500, Golf Academy membership £1,350 and Gym membership £148 per month, now is the perfect time to join the multi award winning Stoke Park! ■

THE DETAILS Park Road, Stoke Poges Buckinghamshire SL2 4PG 01753 717171 www.stokepark.com

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ALF VILLAGES outdoor adventure for all the family

or nearly a decade Marlow and Maidenhead families have enjoyed outdoor activities at Longridge on the Thames at Bisham. Learning to kayak, row and sail as well as enjoying family camping weekends and holding very active and exciting birthday parties. The charity that own Longridge have raised over £3m to improve the facilities and add in new activities to allow 90,000 young people to visit every year, with their families, schools and youth groups. The next stage of Longridge’s development is even more exciting, as the Longridge Charity has formed a new charity the Adventure Learning Foundation to run as ALF Villages other activity centres on a not-for-profit basis for the benefit of young people of all ages and abilities. So now, those in Tring, Wendover and Aylesbury can enjoy outdoor adventurous activities at Green Park in Aston Clinton and wildlife enthusiasts in Chorleywood, Amersham and the Chalfonts can at Shortenills in Chalfont St Giles enjoy activities that help young people understand our natural environment even better. Although with accommodation available at both centres – actually everybody in the UK can enjoy all that each Village offers. The charities aim is to add one new centre every year, and this year sees the Athletics Track at Little Marlow become an ALF Village and benefit from the team’s expertise and enthusiasm for outdoor adventure. 1 6 SEPTEMBER 2015

If you and your family have ever wanted to try a new sport or develop skills in an existing one then take a look at the ALF Villages website and see what takes your fancy. Perhaps try one of their Holiday Activity Days for those aged 8+ at Green Park and Longridge or 5+ at Shortenills; or if you want to specialise in an activity try one of their Activity Courses, water based at Longridge with rowing, kayaking and sailing courses. Whilst Green Park focuses on land based activities such as archery, fencing and mountain biking. Shortenills being their environmental centre offers courses in bushcraft, bug spotting and woodland frolics. The Family Days and Weekends are always popular and book up quickly at all locations, with either camping or indoor accommodation available together with a full programme of activities. If you are not sure what activity is right for you look out for their, Family Taster Days, which will let you try out the activities for as little as £1. If you are more a spectator than a participator, then book in your family and you can enjoy a leisurely Cappuccino from the Village Cafés and enjoy the beautiful settings and happy faces. ■

THE DETAILS www.alfvillages.org.uk

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p18-Bucks-Santas.qxp__ 14/09/2015 12:21 Page 1

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2015 MARLOW SANTA’S FUN RUN WEBSITE OPEN TO ENTRANTS

SIGN UP TO BE A SANTA IN MARLOW HIGH STREET! • Website now live • Maximum 2500 places available • 9.30am on Sunday December 6th confirmed • The 11th consecutive family event • £30,000 target set for charities and good causes • Sir Steve Redgrave and Naomi Riches to set scene • Sytner High Wycombe BMW appointed as Lead Sponsor The Rotary Clubs of Marlow have now opened Santas Fun Run 2015 event website. The site provides all of the information relating to the 11th Santa’s Fun Run, taking place on Sunday December 6th, and starting at 9.30 am. The website www.santasfunrun.org provides a host information about the event, and enables both individuals and teams to enter. It also allows runners to set up charitable donations and fund raising initiatives – either in aid of Rotary or charities of their choice. Entrants come from far and wide – with Marlow, High Wycombe and Maidenhead contributing the greatest numbers. David Sutherland, Chairman of this year’s organising team, advises potential runners to sign up as early as possible. He says “last year we had to close the process in early November due to the extraordinary level of interest. In the first few days of September this year we have had a very level of interest, and we advise any potential runner to 1 8 SEPTEMBER 2015

book early to avoid disappointment.” This year Rotary has introduced for the first time a “lead sponsor” opportunity, and are delighted to announce Sytner High Wycombe BMW as taking up this role. Richard Berry – MD of Sytner High Wycombe says “Sytner High Wycombe BMW is absolutely delighted to take on the lead sponsor role for the 2015 Marlow Santa’s Fun Run. The event has grown to become a firm fixture in the town, with runners from all over the area. We lend our support to the Rotary Clubs of Marlow who do such a great job organising the event – and of course who raise enormous sums for great causes.” Rotary have set a target to raise over £30,000 for charities and good causes, and are confident of exceeding this figure. The 5 kilometre route takes participants from and then back to Higginson Park, and for all those who complete the course there is a celebratory bronze medal. Just to say "Well done”! ■

THE DETAILS Entry costs are £15 (adults), £10 (12 to 17 years) and £7 (5 to 11 years). Adults receive a Santa Suit, and children a Santa T-shirt. For more information interested participants should visit: www.santasfunrun.org or phone 01628 476610

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p40-Bucks-StFrancisHospice.qxp__ 14/09/2015 12:11 Page 1

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THE HOSPICE OF

St Francis

Returned to Glory estled in the Both stores combine retail therapy Hertfordshire The hospice’s specialist furniture with raising funds for a charity which countryside surrounded and upcycling showroom based in supports the local community by beautiful gardens is Berkhamsted opened in 2013 the modern purpose- built Hospice offers 2,500 sq. ft. of selling space. number twenty 20 Lower Kings Road of St Francis. The Hospice provides Last month it won the prestigious Berkhamsted, Herts 01442 878939 expert professional care for people ‘Specialist Shop of the Year’ at the Returned to Glory Northbridge Road, facing life-limiting illness and national Charity Retail Association Berkhamsted, Herts 01442 874356 support for their families and carers Awards. follow on Facebook in the Herts and Bucks area. Their There is a strong design www.facebook.com/returnedtoglory care is tailored to each patient’s influence in the showroom with individual needs whether that’s in room sets show casing a total look 360 Virtual Tour of The Hospice: their Inpatient Unit, as an and style from furniture, lighting www.stfrancis.org.uk/media-centre/360-tour out-patient or in patients’ homes. and pictures to soft furnishings and All their care is given free of mirrors. Collaborative relationships charge but they rely on voluntary donations to fund 80% of with fabric designers have enabled it to incorporate donated their £4.8m annual running costs. In addition to its various designer fabrics in upcycling projects, re-inventing furniture income streams which include major fundraising events to make it both desirable and unique The show room is also such as Mud Pack Challenge and the Ashridge Garden used as a venue for ’pop-up’ shops, valuations, design events Party, the hospice also has six traditional high street charity and Autentico specialist paint workshops and offers shops, two specialist shops-number twenty and Returned to customers a free furniture collection service ,which is Glory -together with a successful eBay operation. very popular. ■ number twenty is an award winning gifts and THE DETAILS interiors shop in Berkhamsted established in 2006 which The Hospice of St Francis sells bought in design-led products. As well as stocking Spring Garden Lane, Off Shootersway, exclusive ranges, they also support small local suppliers. A Berkhamsted, Herts, HP4 3GW team of volunteers support the management team to help run the shop and all profits go to the hospice. Whether you 01442 869550 want an unusual card, a thoughtful gift or a new piece of www.stfrancis.org.uk furniture, cushion or lamp, number twenty offers www.facebook.com/thehospiceofstfrancis inspiration and an innovative product range. Twitter-www.twitter.com/hospicstfrancis 2 0 SEPTEMBER 2015

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p38-Essex-Saatchi.qxp__ 14/09/2015 12:13 Page 1

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AT SAATCHI GALLERY

13th Octo 1st Novemb ber er 10am - 6pm2015 , 7 Days A (Wednesday Week Until 10 Free Admis pm) sion

This autumn in London, Karl Lagerfeld and CHANEL will present an enchanted journey through the House’s creativity.

eld at the Saatchi Gallery, Chelsea, the “Mademoiselle Privé” exhibition will highlight the Haute Couture, the re-editions of the High Jewellery “Bijoux de Diamants” collection created in 1932 and CHANEL No5. Opening the doors to reveal a dazzling experience and immersion into the origins of CHANEL’s creations, “Mademoiselle Privé” will capture the charismatic personality and irreverent spirit of Mademoiselle Chanel and Karl Lagerfeld. Installed on three floors of the gallery, the enticing adventure will bring to mind the House’s essential elements: audacity, freedom and innovation whether it is the history of Gabrielle Chanel’s inspirations or Karl Lagerfeld’s inimitable take on CHANEL’s codes, symbols and icons. THE DETAILS Saatchi Gallery Duke of York’s HQ, Kings Road, Chelsea SW3 4RY Mademoiselleprive.chanel.com #Mademoiselleprive

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p36-Essex-Homebuilding.qxp__ 14/09/2015 12:13 Page 1

PICTURE COURTESY OF NIGEL RIGDEN

LOVE LOCAL

New venue marks 25th anniversary celebration

The London Homebuilding & Renovating Show Ex

PICTURE COURTESY OF SIMON MAXWELL

he London Homebuilding & Renovating Show, sponsored by Anglian Home Improvements, is set to attract thousands more visitors at its new spacious and contemporary venue. The event this year will celebrate the 25th anniversary of Homebuilding & Renovating magazine, the show’s media partner and Britain’s best-selling self-build publication, by taking its content off the pages and bringing it to life at the event, supported by new experts, exhibitors, seminars and masterclasses. The event will showcase how the property market, architectural and design trends, which have shaped the social aspects of the UK families, have evolved. In addition, throughout the three-day event, people who are still unsure how to undertake a project efficiently from inception to fruition will have access to expert guidance and tailored advice at 15-minute consultations, in-depth seminars and masterclasses hosted by the UK’s leading property experts and companies. For the first time, Gabrielle Blackman, BBC’s ‘DIY SOS’ interior specialist, will be making her debut on the London show expert panel to provide attendees with inspiration, advice and recommendations on how to tackle architectural and interior innovations. Gabrielle is a firm believer in vanity decorating and encourages people to opt for colours that suit their personality so she will also be on hand to help visitors add their own stamp to their property.

LonCdeoL n

Charlie Luxton, sustainable architectural designer and presenter of More 4’s new ‘Building the Dream’ series, and Julia Kendell, interior design expert and co-presenter 25th-27th of ITV’s ‘Rebuild Our Home’, will return to meet with the Septem London event audience and share their invaluable insight ber on current industry trends and tips from their latest projects. Topics such as eco living, homes of the future and new architectural ideas will be covered by Charlie on the Friday of the event. Julia will be attending on the Saturday to speak with those looking to find out how they can spruce up their homes through clever interior touches. The Dulux Interior Design Clinic is where attendees will find insightful decoration advice on the latest tonal schemes, wall coverings and furnishing. The company’s roomset at the event will be a real life inspiration corner to demonstrate how colour and patterns can make a real difference to the final appearance of a project. The Ask the Architects zone will be hosted by four experienced members of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) who will be available to provide solutions on how attendees can navigate their building projects and overcome challenges on the way. To tackle the challenge of obtaining planning permission, Sally Tagg and her team of experts at the Planning Clinic will advise those with a building or renovating project in mind how to make an application and jump through all the hoops in the process. The Foxley Tagg specialists will update visitors on the latest rules, regulations and caveats to be aware of, saving self-builders time and money. THE DETAILS

Standard tickets are £12 in advance or £18 on the door (children under 16 go free).

For further information visit www.homebuildingshow.co.uk/London or call the ticket hotline on 08712310824 (calls cost 10p per minute plus network extras). 2 4 SEPTEMBER 2015

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p34-Essex-OrsoItalian.qxp__ 14/09/2015 12:14 Page 1

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WIN

A Magical Venetian Experience... Orso Restaurant offers 5-Star competition to Venice for 2 to celebrate their 30th Anniversary.

o celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the iconic Covent Gardenbased Italian restaurant, Orso, there is a fantastic prize for one lucky reader to win! Featuring return flights to Venice, two nights accommodation in a five star luxury hotel and a very special Venetian food tour, this will be a magical experience to savour for any lover of Italian cuisine. Orso is set in a former subterranean orchid warehouse at 27 Wellington Street, a stone’s throw from the Royal Opera House where many of its stars regularly dine, Orso is a culinary institution. With a rich heritage as pioneers of Italian gastronomy and an outstanding reputation for some of the finest Italian food in London – including being the very first establishment to import their own buffalo mozzarella into the UK – Orso is the perfect destination to enjoy the finest, independent Italian food in the West End. Its atmospheric space is reminiscent of 1950’s Italian décor with subtle lighting, original glazed bricks and crisp white tablecloths. The walls are

festooned with photographs of many iconic Italian greats who gaze down on the patrons of its famous dining room, which include prominent singers and actors such as Placido Domingo and Simon Callow. As well as a pre-theatre menu, an à la carte menu is also available and both change seasonally. Only the finest, freshest ingredients are used, with classic dishes that stretch across the whole range of Italian gastronomy from the sophistication of Milan and Venice to the more rustic fare of Puglia and Sicily. Orso has been revitalised under the new ownership of two west London restauranteurs, Lawrence Hartley, former maitre’d of The Ivy and Tim Healy, founder of south west London’s highly regarded A Cena food empire. In addition to Orso they also own its sister restaurant, the legendary Joe Allen, and are soon to unveil their brand new restaurant concept on the Lo

who regularly frequents Orso. Email your answer in the subject line to orsovenice@gmail.com making sure you add your contact details into the body of the email. Closing date for entries is 30th September 2015 and the winner will be picked randomly and notified by 9th October. T&C’s apply THE DETAILS For more information about Orso Restaurant, 27 Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London WC2E 7DB Visit the website at www.orsorestaurant.co.uk Terms & Conditions: (1)There is one prize of a trip to Venice (Italy) being offered for two people travelling together, one member of the party must be aged 18 or over. (2)The prizes include: return economy flights from London to Venice (direct services only), return airport transfers in resort, 2 nights 5* hotel accommodation sharing a twin / double room including breakfast, a Venice food tour and comprehensive travel insurance (excluding pre-existing medical conditions).(3)The trip can be taken up until 30th September 2016 excluding travel over bank holidays, Venice Film Festival and Christmas. All travel must be completed by 30th September 2016.(4)All holiday locations and dates are subject to availability. Travel will be subject to flight 2 6 SEPTEMBER 2015

and hotel availability at the date of booking the trip. The winner should notify the Promoter at least six weeks in advance of his/her preferred dates for taking the trip. (5)The Promoter or Cloud Nine will accept no responsibility for hotels / tours / transport companies etc. being withdrawn or amended. In the event of this, Cloud Nine will endeavour to offer a suitable alternative.(6)All travel arrangements offered are at the discretion of Cloud Nine and the promoter. Any requests relating to airport, airlines or hotels cannot be guaranteed.(7)Any amendments made by the prize winner after the booking is confirmed may be subject to administration charges levied by the specific supplier. (8)Passports and Visas are the responsibility and cost of the prize winner. The Promoter or Cloud

Nine cannot be held responsible if the prize winner or any of the travelling party fail to obtain the required travel documentation.(9) There is no cash alternative or refund for unused portions of the prize.(10)Comprehensive travel insurance is included in the prize; however it does not cover pre-existing medical conditions. In the event that cover is not granted an equivalent cash allowance will be provided so adequate cover can be sought. This will be the prize winner’s responsibility and proof of insurance will be required prior to departure. (11)For the avoidance of doubt, the prize does not include travel to and from the home to the airport, gratuities, meals or other travel expenses unless otherwise stated, or any other costs of a personal nature not stated for winner and guest.

Breathtakingly Beautiful Kitchens & Bathrooms New Designs • New Thinking • MasterClass Kitchens • British Made Visit us today

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FEATURE

CAN YOU HAVE A ‘GOOD’ DIVORCE?

amily lawyer Sue Andrews, from leading Buckinghamshire law firm B P Collins LLP, believes there is such a thing as a “good” divorce. With more than 35 years’ experience of working with divorced and separated couples, Sue has devised her own golden rules to help both parties reach a satisfactory resolution with the minimum of animosity, cost and delay. 1 Respect and communication - separating couples often get bogged down in considering matters from their own perspective instead of remembering that they were once a loving partnership which involved trust, respect and communication. Retaining this is especially important if there are children involved, because the couple needs to maintain an ongoing relationship for the rest of their lives. 2 Counselling - it is important to keep feelings of anger, hurt, mistrust, betrayal, frustration and guilt out of the formal process, but that can be difficult. Counselling, either before consulting lawyers or during the process of deciding issues in relation to children and resolving finances, may help. 3 Choose your lawyer carefully - look for a specialist, experienced family lawyer with whom you have rapport and empathy and one you do not feel intimidated by. Yes, lawyers give advice, but remember it is your divorce and it is you who should give the instructions. Be wary of a lawyer who promises you the earth or who always agrees with what you say, because that is rarely an outcome which can be achieved. While you may need firm guidance, you need to remain true to your own values and principles. 4 Establishing the facts - one of the first tasks is the fact finding exercise to understand all the issues that might impact upon

2 8 SEPTEMBER 2015

the resolution of matters, and to ascertain the resources and assets of the relationship. A good lawyer will provide advice about what would be an appropriate settlement based on those facts, taking into account relevant legislation and judicial precedents and guidance. 5 Be honest - do not play games, unless of course it is really your goal and preference to pay significant amounts in legal fees and delay resolution. 6 Keep costs down - put your paperwork in good order. If your lawyer has to wade through loose papers in several carrier bags it will increase your costs by the number of hours he or she is required to go through such paperwork. 7 Understanding – try to put yourself in the shoes of your spouse. It is very rare that separating parties are in the same emotional place at the same time. One person may have been thinking about it for some time, while the news may come as a complete shock to the other partner. If the marriage breaks down because one person has had an affair, the other party is likely to feel incredibly upset, hurt and betrayed. These feelings and issues will pervade the resolution of matters unless dealt with and addressed beforehand. Sue concludes: “I truly believe a good divorce is one where both parties have realistic and pragmatic advice about what is fair for each of them and are able to talk frankly and openly with each other to achieve a settlement.” ■

THE DETAILS To speak to B P Collins’ family team about divorce or separation, please call 01753 279091 or email familylaw@bpcollins.co.uk.

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02-FP-Ad-Master.qxp 01/09/2015 19:29 Page 1

CULTURE I N T H E C A P I TA L

Your guide to the heart of Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cultural scene this autumn and winter with foreword by David Suchet

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CULTURE GUIDE

Maelst Ma l trom m i into the he

WITH DAVID SUCHET

F nds, Dear Frie pe has exploded since I first joined don’s artistic landscap Lond donerrss now 3 - LLond pany in 1973 Com y Shakespeare oyal the Ro Here I want om. f fr se cu re to choo have a huge wealth of cultu has to offffer n ondo Lo that best very the to givee you a slice of King le Kin ole Caro Car The – Beautiful l B this seeason - from hitt musiicals to , ical, Mus the t Ellio Billy and Musicaal,l SSunny Afternoon ’s V&A the like e tur cult ore international exhibiitions that explo aits. Portr The a: G Goy ry’s Galle nal Natio F val and the India Festi gh to work with some of the I haave been fortunate enoug d some of kled have ttackl d to h biggest talents of British theatre,, and The l in Th knel Brac dy Lady ing play l ently the grreat roles. I’m curr th the on e tr h thea lle devi a Vaud Importance of Being Earnest at the our hum of d b blen right the j just ires equ ole that rrequ d a rrole Strand, ith - to engage with p os. It’s opportunities like these and path ently emin and ng kin rovo p h ght-p g h thou aree aat once ks that ar work thrilling place to r ing - that make London such a entertain live k and live. work

3 2 SEPTEMBER 2015

In Lon L don there’s something for everyo one - no matter your tast t e, it’s tim mee to thr th ow thro w yourself into o the th maelst l rom m. Ple l asee consider this supple l ment a guide to some of the best th hat the city has to t offf fffer iin entertain inm ment. There’s never been a better tim e to enjoy Culture In The Capital.

If you u’’d lik ke to see me in The h Importa ance of Being B i Ea E rnest until 7 Novem ber just visit importanceofeearnest.c om or call the bo ox offi ffice on 0844 482 9675 . Kind rega e rds, David Suchet

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CULTURE GUIDE

t began as one man’s story… became everyone’s music…and is now London’s hottest new show. MOTOWN THE MUSICAL follows the legendary career of Berry Gordy and the creation of his musical empire, Motown Records. The story begins in 1983, on the evening of the 25th anniversary celebration of Motown, and Berry Gordy is looking back on his career. Inspired by his childhood hero, black American boxer Joe Louis, the young Berry dreams big, hoping one day to make people as happy and proud. After a few years on Detroit’s automobile assembly line he sets his sights on bringing a sociallycharged, racially-divided country together with music. With an $800 loan from his family, Berry founds a music making factory. Motown is born! Berry signs a series of ground-breaking artists including Diana Ross and the Supremes, Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5, Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, Marvin Gaye, The Temptations and more. But with the Vietnam War looming and America at a cultural turning point, Berry realises the time has come to push for something bigger than he ever dreamed of, to make music that could get the whole world moving to the same beat. MOTOWN THE MUSICAL tells the thrilling tale of the man who broke barriers and fought against the odds to define the sound of a generation – complete with the ups and downs of the personal relationships, the professional struggles, and – of course – the music that made history. Discover the story behind the beat that

changed minds, touched lives and took the world by storm. MOTOWN THE MUSICAL shows how one label and its roster of legendary artists created the soundtrack that transformed America and gave the world a new musical vocabulary—the Motown Sound. With over 40 classic songs such as “My Girl,” “What’s Going On,” “Dancing in the Street,” “I Heard It Through The Grapevine” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” this explosive event is the next chapter of Motown’s incredible history – and an experience you’ll never forget.

MOTOWN THE MUSICAL

Runs at Shaftesbury Tthe from 11th Feb heatre ruary 2016.

THE DETAILS For more information and to book tickets call 020 7379 5399 or visit motownthemusical.co.uk SEPTEMBER 2015 3 3

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CULTURE GUIDE

Playing from 23rd November

NATIONAL THEATRE

wonder.land A

new musical inspired by Lewis Carrollâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s iconic Alice in Wonderland, by Damon Albarn and Moira Buffini. Welcome to wonder.land, where you can be exactly who you want to be. Aly, 12, loves this extraordinary virtual world. Bullied at school and unhappy at home, wonder.land offers an escape. Online, Aly becomes Alice: brave, beautiful and in control. As hard as Aly tries to keep real life and wonder.land apart, they begin to collide in ever more curious and dangerous ways. wonder.land is designed by Rae Smith, with projections by 59 Productions and lighting by Paule Constable, the design team behind War Horse. THE DETAILS

For more information and to book tickets call 020 7452 3000 or visit nationaltheatre.org.uk

SEPTEMBER 2015

music by Damon Albarn book & lyrics by

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CULTURE GUIDE

Slavaa’’s Sno Sla S wsho how

lava’s Snowshow is back at London’s Roy yal Festival Hall for a fifth spectacular year! The multi-internatio onal award-winning hit has been thrilling theatregoers of all ages a around the world for over 20 magical years. Created by multi-internaational award-winning performance artist Slava Polunin, P Slava’s Snowshow is theatre lik ke you’ve never seen before. The show comb bines hilarity and poignancy with breath--taking special efffects fects to introduce a joyous dream-like world IMES unlike anything you hav ve ever experienced; SUNDAY T a world in which a cobwe eb envelops the

l “Theatrica” Brilliance

audience and one tiny piece of paper begins a heart-stopping blizzard of snow. With an enchanting score featuring the works of Beethoven, Orff and Ravel, among many others, this classic piece of theatre is full of joy for the whole family. THE DET TAILS AILS

BOOK YOUR TICKETS NOW

NOW BOOKING UNTIL APRI A L 2016

RAYY DAVVIES

Book

JOE PENHALL

Original Story by

RAY DAAVVIES

Director

EDWARRDD HALL

‘STILLL TH THE HE BESTT MUSICCAL IIN LONDON’ DON DAILY MAIL, 2015 15

HAROLD PINTER THEATTRE

HE INDEP ENDENT

Sla ava’s Sno owsho wsho ow runs at Royal Festival Hall from 16th Dec 2015 - 3rd Jan 2016. 6. For more inffor ormation and to book tickets visit sla avasno va asno owsho ow.co.uk

BESTT NEW MUSSICAL

M u s i c a n d Ly r i c s

‘Sim mp thrilling.ly unforgett An ab comedy le masterpie ce.’ T

BillyEllliotTheMusiccal.com

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K, 7 SIL 186 RT N A. LBE VE C A N O E, D DO ,W R N N RI LO A A O SA GA RI M, L N TO U BA VIC SE U © M

CULTURE GUIDE

N O TT , CO AT RIA G, R O IN UJA ICT EUM NG E, G . © V US HA U RY M M LIQ U RT O PP NT BE RO ATH CE D AL 20 AN

V& &A In India di F Festiv estiiv ival Explore the ricch and vvaried a culture of South Asia, both past a aried and present

his autumn the V Victoria ictoria and Albert Museum, um, London will present a series of exhibitions, displays, events and nd digital initiatives that will explore the rich a past and present. The V&A will mark the 25th anniversary of the the Museum’s Nehru Gallery, which d some of the most important objects f the V&A’s South Asian art collection produced between the 16th and 19th centuries. The V&A has one of the greatest collections of South Asian art in the world, and is particularly renowned for its Mughal court arts, textiles, paintings and sculpture. The highlight of the V&A India Festival will be The Fabric of India, t first major exhibition to explore the d and multifaceted world of handmade Opening in October the exhibition w the 3rd to the 21st century, including century tent, a stunning range of hist for international trade and cutting-ed designers. This must-see exhibition w V&A’s world-renowned collection alo displayed for the first time. Opening in November the exhibition Bejewelled d Treasures: The Al Thani Collection will present over 100 spectacular items i of Indian and Indian-inspired jewellery, including precious jewels of breath-taking quality, exquisite enamelling and bejewelled ornaments. Visitors will

3 6 SEPTEMBER 2015

discover the evolution and enduring influence of Indian ndian jewellery from the Mughal Empire to the modern day. e a digital projeect in partnership eritage Trust. Trust. 19th-century 9th-century musical V&A’s collectio on will be juxtaposed eading contemporary porary musicians. A 19th-century instruments will also be n the V&A’s South uth Asia Gallery. wider V&A Ind dia Festival will include ked family-frieendly programme events during O October Half-T Term, ecial Ramayan na and Rangoli activities and siite-specific installations around Diwali, li, plus free live music events in thee Museum throughout the Festival. The Fabric ric of India 3 October 2015 – 10 January anuary 2016, Supported by Good Earth arth India; with thanks to Experion n and Nirav Modi. Bejewelled d Treasures: The Al Thani Collection ion 21 November 2015 – 28 March c 2016, Sponsored by tski. THE DET TAILS Book now ffor or the exhibitions and find out more ore about the V&A India Festival online at vam.ac.uk/IndiaFestival #vamIndiaFestival

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CULTURE GUIDE

who rev vels in his status as the strongest stoker on a transatlantic ocean n li liner. But B t when h Y Yank ank k is ccalled a ‘filthy beast’ by the e overbred daughter of a steel merchant, he expe eriences an awakening of conssciousness that forces him to o confront primal questions about his true place in the world. This is followed by a show for all ages – The Lorax. Inspir classic tale, The Lorax tells of a moustachioed and cantankerous critter who’s on a mission to pr the earth from the greed knitting businessman known only as The Once-ler Adapted by David Greig a acclaimed director Max Webster Web (James And The Giant Peach, To Kill A Mockingbird, T blends theatrical invention, songs and zany any humour in a timely and vibrant ant Christmas show.

his autumn at The Old Vic, Matthew wW War archus’ inaugural season se eason features an eclectic programm me ranging from n new commissions to re-imagined claassics, including B Bertie Carvel in Eugene O’Neill’s The e Hairy Ape. This classic exp pressionist masterpiece tells the story y of Y Yank, ank, a labourer

BROA ADWA AY’’S BIGGEST SELLING M AGIC AY SPECTA ACUL AR COMES TO LON L DON W ith S pecial Guest JA MIE R AV E N from Britain ’s Got Talent

7 WEEKS ONLYY FROM 14 NO OVEMBER 020 7379 5399 | TheIllusionistsLive.com Shaftesbury Theatre

THE HAIIR RY APE 17th October - 21stt November DR. SEUSS’S THE LORAX 2ndd December 2015 - 16 1 th JJan anuarry 2016 THE DET TAILS AILS For more inffor ormation and to book tickets e call 0844 871 7628 or visit oldvictheatrre.com

Culture-Master.qxp__ 01/09/2015 19:35 Page 1

CULTURE GUIDE FRANCISCO DE GOYA THE DUCHESS OF ALBA (DETAIL) 1797

©COURTESY OF THE HISPANIC SOCIETY OF AMERICA, NEW YORK

FRANCISCO DE GOYA DON VALENTÍN BELLVÍS DE MONCADA Y PIZARRO AROUND 1795 ©FONDO CULTURAL VILLAR MIR, MADRID

GOYA The Portraits Goya: The Portraits

at the triking and often unforgiving, Goya’s portraits National Gallery demonstrate his daringly unconventional 7th October 2015 approach and remarkable skill at capturing the - 10th January psychology of his sitters. 2016 This landmark exhibition is the first ever focusing solely on Goya’s portraits. It will re-appraise his genius as a portraitist and provide a penetrating insight into both public and private aspects of his life. 70 of Goya’s most outstanding portraits from around the world will be on display, including some never before seen in public.

BRITISH ICON. ARTIST. GENIUS. FASHION LEGEND A PLAY INSPIRED BY THE LIFE OF

Photography Specular

ALEXANDER McQUEEN

book now

McQueenThePlay.com theatre royal haymarket

Book now for your chance to appreciate the remarkable skill of one of Spain’s most celebrated artists. Goya: The Portraits, The National Gallery, Trafalgar Square. THE DETAILS For more information and to book tickets visit www.nationalgallery.org.uk or call 0800 912 6958. Sponsored by Credit Suisse

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0845 200 7981 | beautifulinlondon.co.uk INNER LONDON September i75 010915 [MAIN].indd 33

01/09/2015 12:31:38

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01/09/2015 12:47

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SEPTEMBER 2015 THE FINEST INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS IN YOUR AREA

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EDUCATION LIFE

The Value of Independent Boys’ Schools

ast year, only a few weeks after my move from Eton to take up my new role as the Academic Deputy Head at Merchant Taylors’, I was interviewed for one of the school’s magazines. This though, was not a publication run by the school for existing or prospective parents, it was a satirical magazine run by the boys, for the boys. The interview was enjoyable and there were a number of questions that kept me on my toes. The final question though, really got me thinking – it referenced a recent school assembly, which had extolled the importance of queues to the British psyche and went on to ask me if I thought that ‘private education was one big ‘queue-jump’.’ The answer I gave – and the boys’ response to it – is something that, I think, goes a long way to explaining why I love working in boys’ education in a school like Merchant Taylors’. My take on it was that, whilst it might be seen as a ‘queue-jump’ in one sense, in fact, parents and boys were actually joining a queue for a different ‘product’. The manner in which politicians agonize over Britain’s international ranking in education and use its lowly standing to – magpielike – pilfer the odd initiative from Singapore or Sweden to grab the headlines for a few days is depressing. It is depressing because it ignores the fact that we have some of the best schools in the world right here and yet they are not always seen as the model for success. We have schools that have embraced the virtues of a holistic education for several centuries. We have schools that teach and nurture independence, of both thought and learning. We have schools that teach a variety of different and exciting subjects and employ teachers who are, first and foremost, top-class academics in their field. We have schools that, for decades, have modelled the sort of healthy partnerships between parents, pupils, and teachers that will lead to pupils emerging as well-rounded and happy young adults. It is these schools, which are world leaders; many parents and children, move to London and its environs to access the top quality day school education that our best private schools offer. London is ever more an international city and whilst the driving force behind that is undoubtedly its role as a major financial hub, part of its attraction to those working in top international firms, is that they know that their children will be educated to a world-class standard if they come to work and live here. All that one needs to do is take a quick look at the number of British Olympians who were privately educated,

4 2 SEPTEMBER 2015

or at the number of stars of screen and stage who attended our public schools, to see that a holistic education is an integral part of our identity. First-rate facilities help in this respect, as we at Merchant Taylors’ saw when Australian cricketers, Messrs, Clarke, Smith, Hazelwood et al trained on our pitches in advance of this summer’s Ashes. However, it isn’t just the green fields we have held onto, bucking the trend of the past thirty years, or the excellent concert halls, theatres and recital spaces that exist in our public schools, that explain why so many of our pupils go onto enjoy success in so many areas of public life. For every Olympian, distinguished academic or talented actor will have at least one teacher from their school, who will typically still be there long after they’ve left, who inspired them. Such teachers will have shown that young mind that education is about more than the accrual of paper listing academic achievements. It is about developing the whole person and every rehearsal, training session and performance will have reinforced this message. The world-class academics at our top universities who were privately educated will have been exposed to a raft of opportunities to enrich their learning and broaden their horizons. The top-class international sports stars who attended our best schools will not only have strong academic credentials but also the ability to kick on from their sporting endeavours to life after sport. The top artistic talents will be erudite, interesting, and will have the substance to support their creative instincts. For most of those who attended a top private school, who don’t go on to perform on a global stage, there will be a level of exposure to excellence in all its forms and an expectation of success in life from all who are involved in their education. That this is something we manage to do, in an environment that still focuses on the individual and helps them to realise their own talents, is something of which we, as a country should be incredibly proud. – By Ben Horan, Deputy Head (Academic), Merchant Taylors’ School THE DETAILS Sandy Lodge Rd, Moor Park, Northwood HA6 2HT 01923 820644 www.mtsn.org.uk

p41-Bucks-Education.qxp__ 14/09/2015 15:58 Page 3

MTS

Merchant Taylors’ School Excellence, integrity and distinction since 1561

Open Morning

1561

September 26th 2015 10.00 - 12.30

Change your son’s life • 2017 Registration: 13+ February 28 2016 • 2016 Registration: 11+ November 30 2015 16+ December 31 2015

• A traditional boys’ education for your son • ‘Exceptional’ – 2014 School Inspection • Inspirational teaching • Unique tutorial system • Civilized, friendly & unpressured •

• Bursaries • Academic, Art, Design Technology, Drama, Music and Sport Scholarships

• Superb facilities set in 250 acres

Sixth Form Open Evening

October 5th 2015 17.00 - 19.00

Getting here

Online

Coaches : Barnet, Beaconsfield, Ealing, Harpenden, Harrow, Highgate, Mill Hill, Radlett, Swakeleys, St John’s Wood

Visit us at www.mtsn.org.uk Find us on Facebook Merchant Taylors’ School Follow us on Twitter @MerchantTaylors

Car : MTS is 15 minutes from the M1, the M25 and the A40 Transit : MTS is adjacent to Moor Park (Metropolitan Line) and is accessible from any Jubilee/Metropolitan Line station. Chiltern line trains from Marylebone change at Harrow; from Aylesbury change at Rickmansworth

Guided tours (last tour 11.45)

Please contact Gregg McCann, Admissions Officer admissions@mtsn.org.uk +44(0)1923 845514 Merchant Taylors’ School Northwood Middlesex HA6 2HT

Excellence, integrity and distinction since 1561.

For boys 11 - 18

p41-Bucks-Education.qxp__ 14/09/2015 15:58 Page 4

EDUCATION LIFE

AN ALTERNATIVE TO GRAMMAR SCHOOLS AND GCSEs By Ben Toettcher, founder of Newland College, an independent co-educational secondary school near Chalfont St Giles

his September more Free Schools opened across the country. I applaud the teachers and groups who worked hard to establish these schools. Each group had the opportunity to come up with new ideas to help distinguish themselves from the other schools in their area. One project particularly stood out for me: a school in south London that wants to base its curriculum on the trivium. The trivium was the first curriculum used by schools in Western Europe. Schools based their teaching on the ancient disciplines of grammar, logic and rhetoric. For hundreds of years these three areas were the bedrock of academia. Grammar looks at the mechanics of language. Logic explores the components of thought and analysis. Rhetoric is the application of language in order to persuade a listener. Once grounded in these areas students were invited to study the quadrivium of arithmetic, geometry, music and astronomy. In total, the seven subjects made up a classical liberal arts education. I see parallels between the trivium and the International Baccalaureate, the curriculum we offer at Newland College. Both express the idea that education is more than learning grammar. Students study a body of knowledge and the aspects of each subject. They are then expected to analyse information and discuss with their class what they think about it. Students 4 4 SEPTEMBER 2015

reason with each other to uncover deeper truths and what each topic means to them. Finally, at the end of each unit, students present their ideas and share their insights. Our students will take a set of exams when they are 16, that tests the range of skills they have developed. E-assessments, exams taken on computers, allow for a more subtle range of questioning by using video and animation. The questions explore how to apply knowledge and skills from different subjects to real world situations. Students keep portfolios in the arts which demonstrates their communication skills. They also keep personal portfolios which allow them to reflect as a learner. These types of assessments give schools and universities an excellent insight into future performance at 18. I wish all the new schools across the country the best of luck at the start of their journey. It is an incredible achievement for everyone involved. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to thank again the team at Newland College; the enthusiasm of our first students, in our opening days, has been a delight to witness. â&#x2013;

THE DETAILS Chalfont St Giles HP8 4AD www.newlandscollege.co.uk

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EDUCATION LIFE

THE ROYAL MASONIC SCHOOL FOR GIRLS Committed to educating the engineers of the future

n a recent article it was stated that ‘Science, technology, engineering and maths (collectively known as STEM) has a women problem.’ According to a recent BBC report, only 7% of engineering professionals are female., and the gap is also stark in academia, where 84% of full-time professors working STEM subjects are men. In a bid to combat this problem, independent schools such as The Royal Masonic School for Girls (RMS) have appointed staff to oversee the promotion of STEM activity and organise STEM days to focus on the exciting opportunities available in these fields. Almost uniquely, RMS benefits from its own planetarium and observatory, which sparks a fascination in the stars and the night sky both with the girls and the local community. GCSE Astronomy is popular and this has led to growing numbers of girls opting for Physics A Level, several going on to take this subject at undergraduate level. A recent visit to CERN was very popular and further piqued the girls’ interest in this field. A Level scientists have recently undertaken an environmental conservation expedition to Mexico, during which they have the opportunity to study in the field; our experience tells us that this kind of direct involvement translates into further passion for science, and fuels their determination to carve a future in this branch of study. Extra-curricular STEM activities are strongly encouraged at RMS and this year has seen record success with girls winning numerous, prestigious national awards. Year 12 student Sarah Roger-Lund recently won Cambridge University’s Newnham Engineering Essay Competition 2015 for her essay on the thriving industry of small scale hydroelectricity. Two Year 9 students, Abie Alexandre-Ikwue and Safia Williamson, competed against more than 500 other entries to win the Bill Bryson Prize for Science Communication sponsored by the Royal Society of Chemistry. In a video entitled ‘What are the Odds?’ the girls communicate probability in a thoroughly engaging way; Bill Bryson watched it five times! Ellie Hunt (Year 9) won a national competition run by the Copper Research Agency. The School has also made a winning submission to qualify as one of only

10 schools nationally to make radio contact with the British astronaut Tim Peake on his upcoming space mission. Girls have been motivated to take part in these STEM related activities in their own time by female role models who have come to RMS to lecture on wide-ranging aspects of science and technology. Prize Day speakers such as former US astronaut Linda Miller from CrossRail, and Professor Julia Buckingham, Vice Chancellor of Brunel, provide inspiration to challenge stereotypes in this field. Our commitment to STEM subjects leads us to tap into support from national organisations such as the Stemettes, which runs female-only hackathons and app-building workshops for girls from the age of 7, and puts girls in touch with women already working in STEM fields, such as one of the Shard engineers, and a scientist who worked on the Hadron Collider. Schools like RMS are extremely proactive in encouraging girls into these fields by breaking down stereotypes that suggest that boys are more naturally predisposed to be good at such subjects, and by bringing STEM subjects alive both inside and out of the classroom. Eventually we hope that UK industry will see a dramatic increase in the number of girls choosing to study and work in STEM fields in the future. For it is only by using the full measure of talent this country has, that we can ensure that Britain stays at the forefront of modern science, technology and innovation. ■

THE DETAILS

Image courtesy of The Royal Society of Chemistry 4 6 SEPTEMBER 2015

Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire WD3 4HF Tel. +44 (0)1923 773 168 www.royalmasonic-herts.sch.uk

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The Royal Masonic School for Girls…

Florence Singer

Katie Photographer

Natalie Scientist

Tennyson Ruspini House

Kirsten Oxford Scholar

Brodie Cadogan House

OPEN DAY Sunday 11th October 2.00pm – 5.00pm

Morning Visits also available on

Monday 12th October and Tuesday 13th October Cadogan House Pre Prep and Prep Department: 9.00am – 10.00am Senior School: 10.30am – 12.00pm (last tour at 11.00am)

www.royalmasonic.herts.sch.uk Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire WD3 4HF +44 (0)1923 773168 Registered Charity No. 276784

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EDUCATION LIFE

SHIPLAKE COLLEGE

hiplake College is a thriving boarding and day school for boys aged 11-18 and girls aged 16-18. Overlooking the Thames, 2.5 miles upstream Royal Regatta stretch, students enjoy an inspirational 45-acre site. The stunning grounds are equipped with fantastic modern facilities, including a contemporary Thinking Space, multi-purpose Lecture Theatre and the school’s own Boat House. Renowned for outstanding pastoral care and personal development, Shiplake welcomes pupils with wide-ranging skills and talents. Shiplake’s education is tailored to the individual through inspirational teaching delivered in small classes. In August, Shiplake leavers achieved a record number of A*s and As at A Level, helping to secure places at leading institutions, including Oxbridge, Russell Group and Ivy League universities. In addition to a strong academic foundation, the College offers excellent co-curricular opportunities. Two afternoons are reserved for an array of clubs and societies, including a comprehensive outdoor education programme. Academic lessons previously held on Saturdays have now moved to within a five day working week, with Saturdays reserved for sports fixtures. A full inspection in 2015 judged Shiplake as ‘excellent’ – the highest accolade – across all nine inspection categories.

Prospective families are encouraged to arrange an individual visit or attend an upcoming open morning. ■

THE DETAILS Henley-On-Thankes Oxfordshire RG9 4BW www.shiplake.org.uk

Independent HMC boarding and day school for 440 pupils Situated in 45 acres of beautiful countryside overlooking the River Thames, just 2.5 miles from the famous Henley Royal Regatta stretch Boys aged 11-18 • Girls aged 16-18 • Full and weekly boarding available from Year 9 Academic, sport, art, drama and music scholarships available A full ISI inspection in April 2015 judged Shiplake College as ‘excellent’ across every inspection category, the highest possible grade of achievement.

Upcoming Open Mornings Saturday 3 October - Whole School Saturday 10 October - Sixth Form

Book your visit online at:

www.shiplake.org.uk

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EDUCATION LIFE

DAVENIES SCHOOL WELCOME NEW HEAD

avenies Preparatory School in Beaconsfield, an independent day school for boys aged 4 to 13, welcomed the arrival of a new Headmaster for the start of the new academic year. Mr Carl Rycroft has been the Headmaster of Barnard Castle Preparatory School for the last 6 years and brings with him a wealth of strong independent and state sector leadership experience from day and boarding schools. Carl has a passion for leading and teaching, he has energy and vision, is passionate about education, and about nurturing and developing children to reach their full potential. Looking forward to the new start, Carl commented, “I am absolutely delighted to have been appointed Headmaster of Davenies. It is a wonderful School with a positive learning environment and a warm welcoming atmosphere. I very much look forward to building on the strong foundations that Craig Watson has laid over the last nine years, and leading Davenies, with its committed staff and happy, enthusiastic pupils, to an exciting future.” September also sees the Pre-Prep, Year 3 and Year 4 children move into a new state of the art building, aptly named the Jubilee Building as this is also a year of celebration for the school as it reaches its 75th Anniversary. ■

THE DETAILS Beaconsfield Buckinghamshire HP9 1AA www.davenies.co.uk

B E RK H A M ST E D The School that grows with you

B ER KH A M ST E D

PREP

B E R K H A M ST E D

BOYS

B ERK HAMS TED

BE RK HAMS TE D

GIRLS

S IXT H

Open Days 2015: Thursday 1 October to Saturday 3 October School Registered Charity No. 310630

Call 01442 358001 for details or visit www.berkhamstedschool.org

BDN Company No. 07610890

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Come along and see for yourself

Open Morning Thursdaay 24 September 2015 9:00 - 10:45am

Davenies, Beaconsfield, Bucks HP9 1AA www.davenies.co.uk Registered Charity 313120

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EDUCATION LIFE

An Education for Life AT ABBOT’S HILL SCHOOL

bbot’s Hill is a thriving and dynamic school for girls aged 4-16 years, situated in over 70 acres of beautiful parkland close to Kings Langley, Hemel Hempstead and the M25/M1 junctions. The school has a strong record of academic success and the girls who leave in Year 11 go on to study at a variety of Sixth Forms including St Albans School, North London Collegiate and St Albans High School. The school is a happy and united community in which every pupil is truly known as an individual and given the opportunity to challenge themselves, discover and develop their own unique talents. This is evident in the vast range of extra-curricular clubs on offer that provide a lively balance of sport, performing and creative arts, science and technology, journalism, problem-solving and debating. Abbot’s Hill prides itself on its pastoral care. The sense of being part of an extended family is frequently commented on by pupils, parents and staff alike. In such a nurturing environment, pupils grow naturally in confidence, are happy to embrace new challenges and eagerly take on increasing responsibilities. Pupils leave Abbot’s Hill fully equipped to take on with passion the challenges and opportunities life has to offer. In October 2015, we are opening a brand new all-year round Day Nursery and Pre-School for boys and girls aged 6 months - 4 years. The new Nursery will provide an excellent pre-school education which will feed seamlessly into the Prep School and will reflect the ethos of the school. The principle of the new Nursery building is to provide an open, friendly environment for the children and staff. It will be arranged into dedicated areas, each customised to THE DETAILS For further details, please contact the Registrar on 01442 240333 or visit: www.abbotshill.herts.sch.uk. Abbot’s Hill School, Bunkers Lane Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP3 8RP 01442 240333

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different ages and needs. All the main areas will have direct access to external play areas, including a covered play area.

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EDUCATION LIFE

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE AND LIFE SKILLS THE PIPERS CORNER WAY

n the innovative and encouraging environment of Pipers Corner School all girls are supported and challenged to fulfil their academic and personal potential. Academically successful and socially confident our girls progress to further study at Oxbridge and other top universities or specialist dance, drama and music colleges. In today’s society, in addition to an academic focus, it is imperative that young people are prepared for what lies ahead and develop key life skills. At Pipers Corner as well as benefiting from the experience of stimulating, inspiring learning environments, girls have opportunities to grow in many other areas, be that on the sports field, on the stage or through the relationships they develop with others. Resilience, perseverance, creativity and commitment are key values at Pipers Corner, both in and out of the classroom. Throughout the academic year we are fortunate to see the impact of these values not only in the academic progress the girls make but also through their involvement in our wide and challenging enrichment curriculum and the many aspects of the school to which our girls contribute. Above all this is a school of individuals - there is no typical Pipers’ girl. Why not visit us to see why we could be the right choice for your daughter? ■

THE DETAILS Great Kingshill High Wycombe Buckinghamshire HP9 1AA Tel: 01494 718 255 www.piperscorner.co.uk

why pipers corner? Academic excellence Small friendly classes Nurturing and challenging environment Set in 36 acres of beautiful countryside

Open Morning Saturday 3 October 2015 1000 – 1300 hours Day School for girls aged 4–18 Reg Charity No. 310635 Great Kingshill, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire HP15 6LP • E: theschool@piperscorner.co.uk • T: 01494 718 255 • www.piperscorner.co.uk

@PipersCornerSch www.facebook.com/PipersCornerSchool

SEPTEMBER 2015 5 3

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EDUCATION LIFE

ST HELEN’S SCHOOL, NORTHWOOD:

Transforming Learning

t St Helen’s we treasure the principles which have made us an exceptional school. Girls can develop their academic passions and co-curricular interests and become the future leaders of their communities and professions: teaching and learning of the highest quality, pastoral care which focuses on the needs of each individual girl, and an extensive and expanding range of co-curricular opportunities in music, sport, drama, community service and self-discovery. We are especially thrilled and proud that a team of St Helen’s girls was crowned “Company of the Year” at the 2015 UK finals of the Young Enterprise competition, and look forward to discovering what our students will achieve next. Equally importantly, we continually strive to improve every aspect of the educational experience which we offer; transforming the School in a way which is transforming the learning of every girl at St Helen’s and equipping her for the challenges of higher education and the world of work. We have already transformed learning in our prepreparatory department by building new covered outdoor learning areas and a new playground for our youngest pupils in Little St Helen’s, centred on an exciting pirate ship to allow imaginations to run free and the girls to scramble, climb and slide in safety. This will encourage outdoor learning, improve the girls’ co-ordination and balance, and enable them to grow in confidence. Our Junior School (Years 3-6) is undergoing a complete transformation; we have already broken ground to construct a brand new Junior School building, which will open in September 2016. Year groups will enjoy

permanent classroom locations with light and airy rooms and exciting “break-out” zones to encourage exceptional learning, and we have made extensive provision for specialist teaching in Music, Art, D&T, Science and Drama, along with the resources to stage productions and concerts. The single-storey arms of the Junior School will grow out of the contours of the estate and will be covered with vibrant living green roofs where the pupils will be able to learn about and explore the wide variety of plants they will find there. In the Senior School we have introduced a wide range of exciting curriculum developments: we have launched a bespoke Science course in Years 7 and 8 in which the girls learn key scientific concepts and skills through investigation and discovery, developing their scientific literacy and increasing their confidence in practical work, We have also introduced Latin as a compulsory subject into Year 7, to enable the girls to understand how languages are built. We are also transforming the oldest part of St Helen’s, School House, into a welcoming reception area and a suite of seminar rooms which are more suitable for learning in the twenty-first century. In the longer term, the Sixth Form can look forward to occupying renovated facilities in 2017, once the Junior School has moved into its new building. The world of education is constantly changing and evolving, and we are confident that St Helen’s is transforming to equip our girls with the skills, knowledge and understanding which they will need to excel in a transforming world. THE DETAILS St Helen’s School, Eastbury Road, Northwood, HA6 3AS 01923 843230 www.sthelens.london

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An outstanding Independent Prep School for boys and girls aged 3-13 years

Happiness, Confidence, Suuccess

OPEN MORNING The pupilsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; overall achievement is excellent, well supported by a broad and very well planned curriiculum. Independent Schools Inspectorate

Contact: 014 42 256143

www.westbrookhay.co.uk London Road, Hemel Hempstead HP1 2RF

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EDUCATION LIFE

Life is full of little PERFORMANCES How Stagecoach Theatre Arts can build your child’s confidence and prepare them for the career of their choice.

e recently interviewed David Hunter, West End star and local Stagecoach Principal, who believes that the Performing Arts is a vital part of any child’s education. David’s career has seen him perform at The National Theatre, in the West End and live on television for an audience of millions; it’s hard to believe he started his journey in desperate need of a confidence boost. ‘I was a very shy and quiet child,’ says David, ‘Drama classes gave me the confidence I needed to take on life in a whole new way. I made friends, developed new skills and my confidence soared. Life is full of little performances, whether you’re attending a university interview, delivering a presentation or giving a best man’s speech, and an education in the arts provides the ability to approach them all with confidence. I believe my performing arts training has enabled me to undertake any situation, however daunting, with confidence and I feel lucky to be

providing such an important training to the students of Berkhamsted and Hemel Hempstead. During their 26-year history, Stagecoach Theatre Arts has trained well over a million children, providing them with key life skills through an education in drama, dance and music. Stagecoach pride themselves on the ability to instill confidence and build self-esteem in students, enabling them to develop their skills and have fun in a safe and nurturing environment. Many students go on to enjoy a successful career in the world of performing arts but, whatever their ambitions, children learn to develop a wide range of skills that prepare them for school, university and the career of their choice. Having recently taken over as Principal at Berkhamsted and Hemel Hempstead, David says he has already witnessed the growth in his students’ confidence, “One of our oldest students was incredibly nervous when she joined us and refused to venture out from behind the curtains, but we soon persuaded her it was more fun to join in! Last term she played the lead role in our end-of-term production and blew us all away – we can’t quite believe the journey she’s been on, her confidence is astounding and a real testament to how much a child can develop during our classes.’ Stagecoach offers weekly classes and regular Holiday Workshops in Amersham, Beaconsfield, Berkhamsted & Hemel Hempstead, Henley & Marlow and Rickmansworth. Visit www.stagecoach.co.uk for information and contact details for your nearest school. ■ Tel. 01442 875 977 | 07956 945 181 www.stagecoach.co.uk/berkhamstedhemel

5 6 SEPTEMBER 2015

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Berkhamsted & Hemel Hempstead

01442 875 977 07956 945 181 stagecoach.co.uk/ berkhamstedhemel

Introducing our New Principal, West End Star, David Hunter

New Principal David Hunter

Age 4-16 Fun, confidence-building, educational, classes in acting, singing and dance.

QUA LITY TRA ININ G

ESTA BLISH ED 1988

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Friday 25 September, 18.00–22.00 Join us for an extraordinary night at the Museum – wander the historic galleries with a drink and enjoy displays and talks with Museum scientists. Admission free Find out more www.nhm.ac.uk/tring Akeman Street Tring HP23 6AP @NHM_Tring #SU2015 This European Researchers’ Night project is funded by the European Commission under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie actions

A baby boutique specialising in organic clothing, gifts and accessories from birth to 36 months. Nappy cakes, organic clothing cakes and occasional gifts also available. Our Brands

Kite • Piccalilly • Olive & Moss • Blade & Rose • Frugi

Tel. 01869 388 190 info@thenewbornbabycompany.co.uk

www.thenewbornbabycompany.co.uk

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DREAM WEDDINGS STUNNING LOCAL VENUES TO THE MOST BEAUTIFUL DRESSES

Weddings at The Oxfordshire

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WEDDING SPECIAL

Buckinghamshire GOLF CLUB

rom your initial enquiry through to your special day you will have direct access to Bethan, the in-house Wedding Planner at Buckinghamshire Golf Club. On first meet, she will take you around the venue on a personalised and private tour – show you the various function rooms as well as the gardens and outdoor areas – perfect for the wedding photos. For Bethan, it is all about spending time with you and really starting to understand what you dream of for your once in a lifetime big day. You may know exactly what you want, you might have a few ideas that have been there for years or you might still be looking for ideas and inspiration to really ensure that your big day becomes the reality that you have always dreamt of. Wherever you are with your plans, the team at the club, with their wealth of experience will work with you to develop those ideas, and

6 0 SEPTEMBER 2015

put plans in place to ensure that they are executed perfectly. They can organise everything from the wedding favours to the flowers, the entertainment to the menus – or will work with you and the suppliers that you already have in place. Either way, everything will be kept organised on a structured itinerary so that at any time you know exactly what is needing to be done at every step of the way in the planning of this big event. Communication with everyone involved is just one of the services that Bethan and the team will offer, enabling you to have as much control as you would like. Holding your special day here, you will be assured of a personal service and exclusivity. Your wedding will be the only one there, ensuring that the focus is solely on you and the needs of your wedding party – perfect.

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Petals & Confetti • www.petalsandconfetti.co.uk

The Buckinghamshire Golf Course is not only a beautiful venue but the staff cannot do enough to accommodate your needs. Bethan & Michael are a superb duo that ensured our wedding day was everything we dreamed it could be. - Eternally grateful Mr & Mrs Stocker.

With an in-house Master of Ceremonies allocated to you to ensure the smooth running of the day, you can be comfortable knowing that everyone will be in the right places at the right times, from pictures and the drinks reseption, through to guests being seated to enjoy the fantastic wedding breakfast. You can be assured that with this seamless control – everyone will feel relaxed and can enjoy the day to it’s max! Would you like something traditional, or perhaps a little more personal or even quirky? Everything can be accommodated for at Buckinghamshire Golf Club with as much or little guidance to the structure of the day as you wish. At Buckinghamshire Golf Club the choice is yours and the team behind the scenes will ensure that everything exceeds your expectations and runs perfectly. ❤

Sample menu Goats Cheese and Caramelised Red Onion Tartlet on a bed of Rocket Chicken and Asparagus Terrine, homemade Piccalilli and Crispy Leaves Hake, Pomme Fondant and Pea Fritter with a Caper Butter Sauce Beef Wellington, Chateau Potatoes and Seasonal Vegetables with a Red Wine Reduction Eton Mess Warm Chocolate Brownie with Vanilla Icecream Denham Court Drive, Denham, Buckinghamshire UB9 5PG www.buckinghamshiregc.com Tel. 01895 835 777

SEPTEMBER 2015 6 1

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WEDDING SPECIAL

Stoke

PARK

SAY ‘ I DO’ AT STOKE PARK!

or weddings, Stoke Park is a stunning backdrop to your perfect day. Set within 300 acres of beautiful parkland, landscaped gardens and lakes, stands an imposing white Palladian Mansion. Over 200 years old, the grand building is truly one of the most romantic settings for a marriage ceremony, civil partnership or wedding reception in the country. Not only does it make a picture

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perfect setting but as Europe’s leading 5 AA Red Star Hotel, Spa and Country Club it offers undeniable luxury for your special day. Located in the heart of leafy Buckinghamshire, and yet only a few miles from Windsor, Heathrow Airport and London, Stoke Park exudes romance and luxury, and can cater for a wide range of needs to make your dream day come true. Whether it be a champagne breakfast or a sumptuous reception banquet, a live swing band or an awe-inspiring fireworks display over the fountains and gardens, the happy couple works closely with our Wedding Coordinator, Michele Connelly and award - winning Executive Chef, Chris Wheeler, to ensure preparations for the big day run flawlessly. Every aspect is planned to the highest quality and finest detail, to guarantee a day that will engender fond and lingering memories. Movie star glamour is evidently present within the grounds of this enchanting estate. Our very own Bridal Suite was used as the iconic romantic mini-break destination in the 2001 film ‘Bridget Jones’ Diary’, our 1908 Championship golf course featured prominently in the 1964 James Bond film ‘Goldfinger’ and the Mansion made a star appearance in

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STOKE PARK WEDDING SHOWCASE Sunday 11th October 2015

Daniel Craig’s ‘Layer Cake’. Stoke Park’s Bridal Suite, the Pennsylvania Suite, was also voted ‘the most Romantic hotel room in the UK’ by the Sunday Times Magazine. Stoke Park is licensed to hold Civil Marriage Ceremonies, which means that you can take your vows in any of our three licensed beautiful rooms or outside on the gorgeous Fountain Terrace. Every room is beautifully and individually decorated with fine antiques and works of art, and all offer breathtaking views across historic gardens and landscaped parkland. With dining facilities for up to 146 guests prepared by our Executive Chef Chris Wheeler, 11 Spa treatment rooms in our award winning Spa, a 27 hole championship golf course, 49 luxurious bedrooms and suites and 14 acres of private gardens offering stunning photographic scenery, Stoke Park will make your day a truly memorable occasion. ❤ For more information, to request a brochure or to arrange to come and see Stoke Park, please contact Stoke Park’s Wedding Coordinator, Michele Connelly at mconnelly@stokepark.com or by phone on 01753 71 71 71 www.stokepark.com

Stoke Park’s Palladian Mansion is truly one of the most breathtaking Wedding Venues in Buckinghamshire. An intimate event showcasing Stoke Park as a Wedding venue along with some select prestigious suppliers and our Wedding Co-ordinator on hand to answer any questions. Entry from 10:30am until 3pm, there is no entry fee and no need to book. All visitors will be entered into a prize draw for the chance to win a Dinner, Bed & Breakfast stay at Stoke Park Please contact our Wedding Co-ordinator on 01753 717171 or weddings@stokepark.com Stoke Park, Park Road, Stoke Poges, Buckinghamshire SL2 4PG 35 minutes from London and 7 miles from Heathrow Airport

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WEDDING SPECIAL

The

OXFORDSHIRE T

he Oxfordshire is a stunning wedding venue licensed to hold wedding receptions, civil marriages and evening celebrations for up to 180 guests. With planning services, outstanding hospitality and world-class leisure facilities, the hotel provides a superb venue for bride, groom and guests alike. Set in the picturesque Oxfordshire countryside, the hotel is the ideal place for beautiful pictures of your special day. With 50 luxury bedrooms in the hotel, the venue also boasts Tempus Spa with relaxation, pampering and the ultimate in luxurious treatments. Tempus Spa is delighted to be an exclusive Pinks Boutique®Celebrated Spa, with award-winning treatments and products which are hand blended in England. Also within the resort that is The Oxfordshire sits the Championship Golf Course – considered to be one of the most exciting courses in the country. With a Civil Wedding licence, The Oxfordshire is able to conduct the ceremony in addition to providing the very best catering services and luxurious accommodation. With complimentary car parking for over two hundred vehicles, a late night licence to support the best possible entertainment, and a beautiful private bridal suite, The Oxfordshire has everything you may need to guarantee a picture-perfect wedding. The quality of the setting is apparent from the moment you drive up the tree-lined driveway to the magnificent stone

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pillared entrance of The Oxfordshire. With an elegant interior and landscaped grounds, our hotel provides a winning combination and a romantic setting for a memorable occasion for you and your guests. Recent accolades include, top 50 places to Stay & Play voted by Golf Monthly magazine, Top Golf Course in the county voted by the Top 100 Golf Courses in England and awarded 4 Bubbles by The Good Spa Guide in 2012 and 2013. ❤ Rycote Lane, Milton Common Thame, Oxfordshire OX9 2PU Tel: 01844 278300 www.theoxfordshire.com

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WEDDING SPECIAL

Harleyford

GOLF CLUB S

o the proposal has been made, the date is almost set, the one thing that needs to be confirmed prior to many other arrangements is the venue. Often many opinions will be offered on where you are holding your wedding, with various friends and family hoping to ‘help’ you make your decision. Here at Harleyford we invite you to come and view our setting, which is beautifully situated on the banks of the River Thames in Marlow. We are confident that once you have seen what we have to offer and talked to us about your wedding plans, your decision will be firmly made. From the very first moments that you arrive at Harleyford Estate, as you are driving through the private gates and traveling down the sweeping tree-lined driveway to the Victorian clubhouse you will take in your first views of the perfect setting for your special day. Breath-taking, calm, picturesque, an abundance of space can be found in this truly tranquil setting. Frequently referred to as ‘The Jewel by the Thames’ and surrounded by over 200 acres of manicured lawns Harleyford provides a stunning backdrop for wedding 6 6 SEPTEMBER 2015

photography. Open spaces, amongst the trees, perhaps on a golf buggy – you will have all of these options to really set your memorable wedding photographs off to a tee. The estate itself dates back to the 12th century offering over 250 years of history. The main clubhouse and bar have been sensitively developed from the Victorian farm buildings within the estate, in keeping with our traditional theme. Here at Harleyford we understand that every wedding is different and there is no standard package for such a special occasion. Based on our desire to ensure that this special day is created in exactly the way that you would like, we have options available that are then tailored to suit your own individual requirements. Perhaps you are looking for a very traditional setting for your celebration. Here we can offer the Gothic Lounge. Steeped in style, the rooms is themed with heavy drapes, with beautiful wrought iron accessories set against exposed brickwork. The beautiful Inglenook fireplace really sets this room off in style.

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As an alternative, and allowing you to enjoy more of the outdoors, we have our covered Pavillion Courtyard. Seating up to 120 guests, on entering this room you feel a sense of lightness and airiness, it is refreshing, calm, stylish and combines the outside with the indoors perfectly. Seating up to 120 guests this is the perfect location for the Wedding breakfast, the speeches and leading on into the night for the evening celebration. Not only do we cater for the wedding breakfast and evening reception, we are also fully licenced to hold civil ceremonies. Choose between the Gothic Lounge with torches and chandeliers, or the covered Pavilion area with the natural light and courtyard area. The banqueting team at Harleyford will work seamlessly to ensure that everything you expect from your wedding venue is taken care of. They pride themselves on service, tradition, and above all, offering thattruly unique experience. No two weddings are ever the same and the team here are on hand to ensure that your day will run smoothly, on time and effortlessly. Your guests will know where they need to be at all times, at what time and where the food will be served, meaning that you can sit back, relax and enjoy your big special day without a worry. Many brides and grooms will have an idea as to what they wish for fr their wedding venue. With that in mind, we have various packages in place that can be tailored to suit your requirements. The next thing to do is for you to arrange to come and see all of this for yourself. We welcome you to come and enjoy a personal tour of the venue, and we are sure that you will walk away happy, and with your minds made up as to where your special day will be held. â?¤ For more information contact the team on 01628 816178 or email sales@harleyfordgolf.co.uk

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WEDDING SPECIAL

Sapphire

WEDDINGS & EVENTS

YOU’VE GOT THE RING… NOW WHAT? We spoke to wedding planner Audrey at Sapphire Weddings & Events. Brides tend to have an idea how they would like their day to be, the look and feel of the day. Bringing those ideas to life is not always as straightforward as we expect. Audrey tells us about the various aspects that Sapphire Weddings & Events can manage, as the big day goes from just an idea to the last few moments of the evening

o you’ve got the ring on your finger? Now to organizing the big day without allowing the added stress from piling onto your already chaotic life. There is so much to do - pick a date, find a venue, pull together your guest list, send your save the dates… the list is endless. Just getting the basics in place is a monumental task in itself - but how do you make your wedding scream you and stand out from the countless other weddings you have attended? Therein lies the challenge. However, just as a bridal dress consultant can take one look at your shape, and narrow down the field of dresses to those that will best flatter your figure, a wedding planner has the expertise you need to help arrange your unique and perfect day. Their job is to

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consult with you, to get an exact idea of how you want your wedding to look, and suggest all matter of ideas to bring your vision to life … from amazing venues to design and décor to make your special day even better than you ever imagined. And with 16% of UK couples now choosing to wed abroad, a planner that specialises in destination weddings can take out the unknowns, which come with planning your wedding from afar. Although your wedding will be a once in a lifetime experience, wedding planners live and breathe the wedding industry day in, day out. They are there to help with all those special touches that will bring the wow factor, and make your wedding day a day that will be talked about for many years to come. Whether it’s deciding on the perfect location, venue, colours, flowers,

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decorations, cake, centrepieces or stationery, they know the people who can ensure you get the best deals with vendors and avoid costly mistakes. No matter how high your budget, most couples end up spending more than they thought on their wedding. However, wedding planners are not only skilled in budgeting, they are skilled negotiators who can explore alternatives with vendors to help you stay within your means. They can also suggest ways you can achieve the look you want for less, by trimming costs in areas that guests’ won’t notice – leaving more in reserve for the honeymoon! But where a wedding planner really comes into their own is in doing those jobs we all dread. They can help make everything happen when it needs to happen, from setup to pack down including overseeing everything on

the big day itself - from making sure all your wedding party are where they need to be, to ensuring that all entertainment is cued up and ready to go. Meaning you won’t have to worry about the room setup, keeping an eye on timings or roping in family and friends to help. With full planning, partial planning or on the day support on offer as well as supplier and venue sourcing, you can get as little or as much help and support as you need. And in doing so, be left with nothing more to do than look gorgeous and enjoy your special day. ❤

Audrey: 07712 332054 E-mail: info@sapphireweddingsandevents.co.uk www.sapphireweddingsandevents.co.uk

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WEDDING SPECIAL

Seasons

CATERING

DESSERTS AND THE WEDDING CAKE

or many people, the most anticipated, memorable and favourite part of a meal of a special occasion is, of course the dessert, and none more so than for a wedding. Desserts can easily tied in with the theme of a wedding, whether it’s to the colour scheme or the Season – rhubarb and elderflower in the Spring, rhubarb, delicious Summer raspberries and blueberries, Autumnal apples blackcurrants, or some warming, Wintery poached pears. An increasing popular way to a) ensure everyone tries your cake b) save a little money... is to serve your cake as dessert. Jazzed up with some seasonal berries, some Chantilly whipped cream, an edible flower and maybe some glitter, a delicious cake doubles up perfectly as a gorgeous plated dessert. What with The Great British Bake Off fever sweeping the country, as well as dozens of cake and baking shows infiltrating our televisions from the states, such Cake Boss and Ultimate Cake Off, the cake is a big trend that is here to stay. Famous cake makers like Choccywoccy Doodah, Hummingbird Bakery, Lola's Cupcakes, and the Royal Wedding classic cake maker extraordinaire Fiona Cairns have all added fuel to the cake trend fire, elevating the status of the wedding cake to celebrity heights. Cakes from these types of suppliers will have a massive impact/kudos, but will also, not surprisingly eat a massive 7 0 SEPTEMBER 2015

hole into your wedding budget! If you spend the time to research well, some local companies can more than adequately rise to the challenge, often they have trained under master patisseries. Cupcakes are a popular trend, stacked up on special stands to looked like a tiered cake, each guest then has a individual cake for themselves, and they can be a variety of flavours, and elegantly or humorously decorated. No longer are wedding cakes limited to the traditional sponge or fruit cake. Our famous Pavlova tower with berries, crystalised rose petals and edible glitter, can be cut like a wedding cake in front of the guests, and then served up as a dessert. This lends itself better to a buffet service, as you can imagine, cutting up a tower sized Pavlova, the end result on the guests plate is more like Eton Mess than a neat slice – but still delicious! This season we have seen the rise of the “Naked Cake”, un-iced sponges in any flavour desired, dusted with icing sugar and decorated with fresh fruit and flowers, a perfect look for a rustic, country wedding. Whatever style of cake you decide to go for, remember that with a bit of creativity, research and careful planning, you can have something that suits your style without having to blow the budget if you don’t want to! ❤ Seasons Catering Company LTD 01494 727 807 food@seasons-catering.com

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WEDDING SPECIAL

Candy

CREATIONS

hen I was sat on a beach on the tiny island of Pemba staring out to sea a few years ago, I knew I wanted leave my job as a corporate foodservice manager of 20 years to start a business that was all about people. I wanted customers to be the driving force of everything we do. It was during my notice period I saw the opportunity to buy Candy creations Buckinghamshire and my head literally exploded with ideas. We adopted the tag line 'if it's special to you, it's special to us' and we mean it. We have had the pleasure with this business to be part of so many people's special happy occasions, engagements, weddings, birthdays, christenings, proms and confirmations. It's hard not to be touched by the reaction of the bride and groom seeing the candy buffet you created from the conceptual consultation to the booking. Or to witness someone give a speech at their 50th birthday that they had always wanted a chocolate fountain and

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we made it possible. We never loose vision that we have one shot, you can't rerun a wedding day or special birthday party so you have to get it right. We love talking to our customers and don't mind how many times we talk or email, going through the finer details or changes, it's all about their wants and needs not ours, we will quite happily offer advice and suggestions, to ensure it's fits with their vision of their event, we have a customer we have been planning their wedding with them since 2013 and they don't get married until 2016, but we feel part of their special day and want everything to be perfect for them. â?¤ If you would like us to add a touch of sweetness to a special event lease feel free to contact us at Candy Creations Buckinghamshire. Email: info@sweetcandytablesbuckinghamshire.co.uk Website: www.sweetcandytablesbuckinghamshire.co.uk Call: 07599 787 052

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WEDDING INSPIRATION AT WADDESDON Sunday 11 October 2015, 11 am - 4pm The Dairy, Waddesdon Estate, HP18 0JW Free entry and free parking Come and join us for our first Wedding Inspiration day, an exclusive wedding fair showcasing over 40 finest local suppliers and wedding experts, held in the beautiful setting of the Dairy. Discover our enchanting choice of venues here on the Waddesdon Estate, created for Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild in the 19th century, and plan your perfect day in these idyllic surroundings. The Dairy nestles in a peaceful waterside setting amidst glorious gardens offering a haven of tranquility where total privacy is guaranteed for your wedding. Breathtakingly beautiful, with architecturally elegant rooms, roaring log fires in winter and a terrace extending out into the lake ideal for shaded summer drinks receptions, the Dairy offers a wonderfully romantic backdrop - whatever the season. The Five Arrows is a stunning Grade II listed, half timbered building with two beautiful gardens, sixteen en-suite bedrooms and the Old Coach House with a private bar. Exclusive use packages give you the charming boutique venue entirely to yourselves for the perfect wedding day, night and morning after. Whatever your vision, speak to our friendly and professional events team to see how with our exquisite food, excellent wines and incredible sites, we can create the wedding of your dreams.

Photography: All People Photography, Pippa MacKenzie, Stuart Bebb, Lyndsey Challis and Mark Sisley

Waddesdon Manor, Waddesdon, Nr Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire HP18 0JW T: 01296 653294 E: weddings.waddesdon@nationaltrust.org.uk www.waddesdon.org.uk

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WEDDING SPECIAL

Pure

COUTURE

eaconsfield is home to Pure Couture, a bridal boutique that is owned and run by two very experienced women, Beverley and Gill. Both have a history in dress making; early in her career Beverley made costumes for the Welsh National Opera and the Royal Opera, whilst Gill, having trained at the prestigious London College of Fashion started out as a bespoke ladies tailor. It was little over ten years ago that the

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two decided to combine their skills and love of fabulous dresses to set up Pure Couture Bridal Boutique. Initially offering completely one off dresses for their brides-to-be, the business has moved on over the years, now offering a range of desirable designer dresses. They boast a wide selection of gowns in store, in all styles and fabrics, with fresh looks and always the current seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s styles. Pure Couture are also unparalleled in their ability to make

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in-house alterations to ensure that the dress fits each bride perfectly - with the option for to add her own personal touches to the dress. Some brides may like to add a couture lace bolero - custom made to match their dress beautifully, maybe alter the shape of a neckline and create sleeves or just adding that little extra sparkle with the addition of hand sewn crystals and beading. The team at Pure Couture are ready to advise, suggest, and most of all assist the bride with the wide array of choices and styles that are available. Beverley explains that their team of experienced staff are always on hand to offer suggestions “Amongst the team, we all have differing styles and tastes so we like to discover what our bride’s style will be. Whether that is vintage lace, classic and traditional or a soft bo-ho vibe” the team at Pure Couture will ensure that you find your perfect dress and that you are overjoyed with your decision. Often it can be difficult to visualise how a dress will fit or if a style will suit you, but this is where their skilled, on-site seamstresses come onto the scene – “We can advise on the cut of the dress and how we will be fitting your own dress to suit your shape”. Many brides will have an idea on the designer label they are looking for. Pure Couture are proud to have carefully selected their labels for the fit and structure of the gown as well as the design. Their labels include Martina Liana, Essense of Australia, Stella York, White Rose, Willowby by Watters and Madeline Gardner New York. With a wide selection available in store, the team at Pure Couture will also arrange to bring in a particular style for the bride-to-be to try on. Beverley and the team at Pure Couture are without doubt a very welcoming and friendly group. All that they want is to make sure that every bride has her perfect dress for her wedding day. In the sumptuous setting of their bridal shop the search for this perfect gown is sure to be a successful one. And what of the bridesmaids? Up until now Pure

Couture have offered both bridal gowns and bridesmaids gowns from the same boutique, but opening in December, with much excitement and anticipation, will be a separate boutique catering just for bridesmaids. This new boutique is currently undergoing its refurbishment to become everything that the bridal party need to choose the perfect bridesmaids dresses. Offering a beautiful selection of over 200 gowns, with dresses available in a huge range of colours and fabrics, the bride and her maids will be able to really enjoy the process of selecting the right bridesmaid gown – enabling the bride to really focus on her bridal party and the perfect look. Situated just next door, the bridesmaid boutique will offer weekday as well as evening and weekend appointments – the team at Pure Couture can’t wait to get you booked in! ❤ 3 Heath Rd, Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire HP9 1DA Tel. 01494 672700 www.purecouture.co.uk

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WEDDING SPECIAL

intu

WATFORD

he end of summer doesn’t mean the end of wedding season, with many couples choosing to tie the knot in autumn and winter for a wedding with a difference. From warm, golden hues reminiscent of fallen leaves to sophisticated glacial white themes, the inspiration from the later end of the year is endless. intu Watford understands that planning a wedding can sometimes seem daunting. As a centre that prides itself on being a top fashion and lifestyle destination, perfect for finding those all-important wedding pieces, here is a few of the best wedding trends to provide a little inspiration this autumn and winter.

EDIBLE, HOMEMADE WEDDING FAVOURS THAT AREN’T JAM Honey is a great alternative to jam, especially if you can get friendly with a local beekeeper and promote a local producer. Flavoured oils are simple and easy to create, simply infuse olive oil with a flavour of your choice, think chilli, rosemary, garlic or even mint! Loose leaf tea and specially blended coffee are a unique and creative favour and tie in perfectly with the ongoing trend for shabby chic and tea cups at weddings. Lakeland is the ideal shop to get stocked up on jars and miniature bottles to hold your creations, they even have tips and recipes on what you can create. 7 6 SEPTEMBER 2015

HIGH FASHION BRIDESMAIDS

The days of the traditional bridesmaid gowns seem to be disappearing. Today’s brides are turning to the high street more and more. From full midi skirts with pretty tops to bold florals and even full length sequins. Shops such as Coast, Karen Millen, Lipsy and even H&M offer a great selection.

WATERCOLOUR WEDDINGS Soft, art inspired palettes seem to be making their way into many wedding themes at the moment with invites being of particular favour to get the artist treatment. If you are feeling creative and fancy making your own watercolour wedding stationery why not pick up some supplies from Paperchase and Clas Ohlson? Once the big, and little, details of your wedding have been decide on, don’t forget that we also have a Wedding Gift Card Service, so not only can we make things easier for you, we can make it easy for your guests! It's easy to set up and simple for guests to contribute just visit the Customer Service desk on the upper mall to register. ❤ 201 The Harlequinn, Watford, Hertfordshire WD17 2UB www.intu.co.uk/watford

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Shop with us: in centre | at home | on the go

Say ‘Yes!’ to our Wedding Gift Card List Service It’s easy to set up and simple for guests to contribute; visit our Customer Service Desk on the Upper Mall to register.

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WEDDING SPECIAL

Little

TREASURES

o you are planning your special day, your perfect wedding, and the questions arises “Are children welcome at the wedding?” This can often be a contentious issue, and not always easy to please everyone. Equally, for the guests that you want to come to your wedding but simply have no options for childcare – do you risk them not attending because of the children? This is where Little Treasures Mobile Crèche can step in, help you to please everyone and continue with the wedding of your dreams. Little Treasure Mobile Crèche, based in Denham, come to your venue. The crèche is founded and owned by mother of two, Sophia Douglas who brings over 6 years of experience in the Childcare Industry. Bringing the child care that you need to the venue is simple. The team at Little Treasures will transform any room or marquee into a fully equipped, safe and fun filled child friendly environment. Ball pits, toys, fancy dress costumes, arts and crafts – you advise of the types of activities you would like in place for the little ones and Sophia and her team will ensure that they are entertained, that they have fun and most importantly are safe and cared for whilst the adults are able to enjoy 7 8 SEPTEMBER 2015

the wedding without having one watchful eye on the children. A wide age range can be catered for from just a few months up to 12 years old – with activities tailored to suit. The crèche can be up and running for all or just part of the day – whilst you and your guests are getting ready, the service, the photos and drinks, meal and speeches, late until the reception ends or even through to the morning after if you need us. The service ensures that parents can relax and enjoy your special day knowing their children are in a happy and safe environment. Ofsted registered and run a strictly to all regulations for mobile Creches, Little Treasures adheres to all required insurances. Risk assessments are carried out in advance. Staff have the necessary teaching or childcare NVQ qualification. All staff are CRB checked. First Aid training to include babies, early years, children, young adults and Epipen Training. ❤ Tel. 07779 069034 Littletreasuresmobilecreche.co.uk

Lesley Cutler Bridal Wear • Trained by top London couture designer • 20 years creating sophisticated hand-made gowns • Made to measure, bespoke service • Your beautiful dream dress created exclusively for you • Choose from stunning & exquisite silk fabrics and lace

Exclusively designed jewellery, veils and tiaras for your perfect look

T. 01908 690899 www.lesleycutlerbridalwear.co.uk

By appointment only • Milton Keynes

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WEDDING SPECIAL

Strike

A POSE

SURPRISE YOUR GROOM WITH A GORGEOUS WEDDING GIFT

he FYEO® Girls have been helping brides to create personal wedding gifts for their grooms since 2002. A unique and exclusively all female studio service, we talk to studio owner Alexandra Burns to find out what goes on behind the scenes.

Q - Where do the shoots take place? A - FYEO® have a studio near Marlow in Buckinghamshire.

Q - Why is an FYEO® shoot so popular with Brides? A - Brides love to give personal wedding gifts to their Grooms. They've often worked hard for their pre wedding body, so it's a great time to have professional pictures taken. FYEO® is popular because the photos are classy but sexy and the service is 100% female run with guaranteed confidentiality.

Q - What happens in the studio? A - Clients are directed into lots of poses in the studio. It's nice and private, with just the photographer and client in the room. The poses are mega flattering, and include specialist techniques for leg lengthening, slimming, and skin smoothing. The whole experience is a massive confidence boost for a bride - or any woman! We've even appeared in a BBC documentary about body confidence!

Q - How do Grooms react to the gift? A - Every reaction is personal, but one happy groom had this to say… "Sarah left her photos for me to find on the morning of our wedding with a note, 'meet me at the altar'! I was blown away by the whole concept of the gift, not only did she look confident and sexy, a woman who I admire, love and find incredibly attractive, but I could see the amount of thought she'd put into the gift. We've been married for a couple of years now and still enjoy looking at the pictures." Daniel G. London, 2015 8 0 SEPTEMBER 2015

Q - What should a bride wear for her shoot? A - Brides should bring their wedding lingerie, heels and jewellery to wear for the shoot.

Q - When does a Bride need to book? A - The studio gets booked up months in advance, so early booking is essential. Brides should plan the shoot for 6 weeks before her wedding. ❤ READER OFFER 20% oﬀ with code lifemagazine. Call the FYEO® girls to book on 01494 880250 Oﬀer ends 28th October or buy online at www.fyeoportraits.com

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Crockery and Cupcakes specialises in fabulous luxurious vintage fine china, cake-stands & accessories for hire for weddings. Including delicious cupcakes, they will add a modern vintage touch and inspire the perfect wedding tea party experience. This exciting company will sprinkle your wedding with vintage glamour.

Call: 07984 039103

Email: crockeryandcupcakes@gmail.com www.crockeryandcupcakes.co.uk crockeryandcupcakes @CrockeryCupcake .eps

0208 354 1360 info@katealbandavies.com www.katealbandavies.com

.eps

AMULET

––– fine handmade jewellery –––

1B Lower Kings Rd, Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire HP4 2AE

01442 879 393

www.amuletsilver.com OPEN MONDAY TO SATURDAY 9.30 - 5.30

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WEDDING SPECIAL

The Vintage

PHOTOBOOTH COMPANY

he Vintage Photobooth Company are not your usual photobooth company. Their booths are full of vintage flair and fanciful fun. The large trunks of props encourage all sorts of mischief to be had as you enter the booth and the bespoke artwork created by their in-house designer, allows for unique memories to unfold before your very eyes. Created from a DIY wedding project back in 2011 and a love of all things photographic and vintage, The Vintage Photobooth Company now have three photobooths – their eclectic Gatsby themed Art-Deco booth, the vintage wonder that is the Churchill and their newest acquisition, the Hepburn - an open studio style booth that can be as bespoke as you want it with a choice of backdrop and as many props as you can squeeze into your photos! Unlimited, professional photographic style images enable each and everyone to leave your big day or wonderful event with a memory they can pop onto the fridge. Duplicates, guestbooks and uploads to social media make it ever so easy for everyone to enjoy the experience as well, especially when everyone is able to have a look at the funny faces pulled the night before as they wake up the following day with the inevitable sore head. From the moment you decide that a booth is on your list of must-haves, you want the best. The Vintage Photobooth Company provides just that – custom-created booth images using your own stationary, booth attendants to look after 8 2 SEPTEMBER 2015

you all evening, as many photos as you and your guests can take and the largest amount of vintage-esque props you’ve ever seen from costumes to dress up in to vintage hats and glasses and chalkboards galore for guests to scribble their congratulations to the bride and groom. Having been fortunate enough to provide photobooths for awards shows, celebrity birthday parties and many wedding receptions throughout the country, they know their stuff. And how do we know? You only have to speak to brides and grooms who have graced the cinema seats of the Churchill or the Art-Decoed bright lights of the Gatsby. Kentish blogger, The Tea Drinking Rose, also known as Charlotte Turton-Wall (www.theteadrinkingenglishrose.com) married her wonderful beau, Sebastian, in the summer of 2015: “We can’t thank The Vintage Photobooth Company enough for all their help with the wedding and their photo booth. It made the special day even better. Our guests couldn’t stop raving about the booth, how great the booth attendants were and how fantastic the photos look! ❤ In order to book one of their uniquely individual photobooths, contact them via www.TVPBC.com or email them at: enquiries@thevintagephotoboothcompany.co.uk. If the telephone is more your thing, then give them a call on: 07970 141876 and they’ll be happy to discuss all of your booth needs.

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Waddesdon T

MANOR

he first Wedding Inspiration day at Waddesdon Manor takes place on Sunday 11th October, an exclusive wedding fair designed to add a unique touch of Waddesdon luxury and a lot of fun to the wedding planning experience. Showcasing over forty of the finest local suppliers and wedding experts set in the spectacular Dairy Lakeside Pavillion, on the Waddesdon Manor Estate. On the day guests will be greeted with a complimentary cocktail or glass of prosecco and introduced to a hand-picked line up of luxury designers, photographers, entertainers, gastronomes and professional wedding planners. Highlights include the Bride’s Boutique featuring Ellie Sanderson Bridal, Kelly Spence Accessories, Pompadour Lingerie and Elle au Naturel hair and make-up and the dedicated Groom’s Room run by Stephen Bishop Suiting, catering for all your grooms’ sartorial needs, plus a relaxation area with Sunday papers, coffee & TV. There will also be a series of 30 minute creative workshops running throughout the day on a whole range of topics including masterclasses on making buttonholes and mastering the art of calligraphy.

Westside Florist Your Local Wedding Specialist 01494 530 613 westsideflorist@outlook.com The farm shop, Clay Lane Booker SL7 3DL

Visitors are also invited to explore the Waddesdon Estate’s enchanting choice of wedding venues, created for Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild in the 19th century, including the (until now) hidden Secret Garden for intimate ceremonies. ❤ For more information about the Wedding Inspiration day, including a full list of exhibitors please see

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FASHION

FABRICS & STYLE FOR FALL FOR HIM STYLES ean shapes ‘Cadiz’ and ‘Cooper’ have established themselves in the denim 5 pocket segment. New tailored designs are added to ‘Everest’ and ‘Evans’, and are given modern fits and a comfortable rise. Overall, the season’s looks are less extravagant, the clear lines and restrained colour statement speaking for themselves.

COLOURS ich, elegant berry shades such as Pinot and grape, bottle green and caramel add a colourful touch to the collection. Grey and anthracite, matched to wood shades such as oak, soft shades of brown all the way to bitter chocolate, and navy and black unite in style and harmony. Muted khaki shades break the neutrality.

FOR HER FABRICS osy, Chic and casual- the fabrics give the collection an exclusive finishing touch. The superstretch ‘Free to Move’ quality is the base in Denims, and is seen in new washes, jacquard patterns and coatings. ‘Save the Blue Plane’ sustainable denim remains essential, and this collection contains modern styles as well as familiar basics .

COLOURS usty, winter and pale rose, and burgundy are cleverly added in shades of violet and mauve, lilac and mulberry, and draw their strength from the combinations with the warm neutrals silver and beige. Taupe, walnut and chocolate add a warm depth. Moss and olive are added to the Trouser and Outdoor segments. Off-white is an important brightener for the wintry hues. The look is finished with the feminine red of Chianti, Bordeaux and Rosewood. Frosted blue is an important colour, along with the navy and indigo in the blues. ■

Brax jeans from £89 8 4 SEPTEMBER 2015

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Brax jacket ÂŁ179

Brax in store now at Andrew Gardner, Wendover. Telephone. 01296 625 488 emaill. enquiries@andrewgardner.co.uk SEPTEMBER 2015 8 5

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FASHION

NEW IN

TOWN The unique, stylish, comfortable and luxurious footwear that we all struggle to find will be available on your doorstep from September 2015!

laudia & Michele are very excited to announce the opening of their new Cecilia Quinn Shoe Boutique in Old Amersham on 15th September 2015. From diamante heels to elegant and trendy footwear, there is something for everyone and every occasion. Situated in Market Square, the boutique will be home to an exclusive collection of Italian and Spanish shoes including their own new Cecilia Quinn line. After launching their successful styling business in London five years ago, Claudia & Michele found it almost impossible to buy shoes for their clients that were both stylish & comfortable. Becoming more and more frustrated with what was on

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offer they decided to travel abroad in search of the shoes that just couldn’t be found in the UK. After several trips, they knew they had found what they were looking for! They discovered “hidden gems” and found excellent craftsmen to produce their new line. “We’re about refined elegance with an edge” says Michele. The Autumn/Winter collection will feature the most desirable selection of boots including lambswool-lined, elegant knee length and glamourous ankle boots for evening and the day shoe that gives an ordinary outfit the “wow” factor. And most importantly, all styles have been tried and tested for comfort so you can walk with confidence for days! “Our target is the everyday woman like us” says Claudia We look forward to welcoming you into our boutique. ■

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We’re about refined elegance with an edge THE DETAILS Cecilia Quinn Shoe Boutique 5/6 Market Walk, 23 Market Square, Old Town Amersham, HP7 0DR Opening hours:Tuesday to Saturday 10am – 5pm info@ceciliaquinn.co.uk www.ceciliaquinn.co.uk Contact us on 07877216465 or 07961171692 for more information.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

INFLUENZA VACCINATIONS The most effective way of preventing the flu is to get the influenza vaccine each year. This year’s vaccine protects against A and B strains of flu, in particular the H1N1 strain for life as well as swine flu. Dr Richard Angwin from DOCTORnow explains more. WHAT IS FLU? Influenza (or flu), is an infection of the respiratory tract (nose, throat, airways, and lungs) caused by the influenza virus. Although flu is similar to the common cold, it begins suddenly and symptoms are much more severe than those of a cold. WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF FLU? Symptoms usually begin with high temperature (38°c or 100°F or more), muscle aches, headache, dry cough, and weakness. Sore throat and stuffy nose may also occur. Severe symptoms including fever often last for 3-5 days. Symptoms such as cough, weakness, and fatigue may persist for weeks. HOW DO YOU KNOW WHAT TYPE OF FLU TO VACCINATE AGAINST? The World Health Organisation monitors the spread of influenza viruses world-wide throughout the year. They recommend which virus strains to include in the vaccine to combat the forthcoming seasonal flu type. HOW LONG WILL IT PROTECT ME? Because the prevalent seasonal flu strains change from year to year the flu jab will protect you from seasonal flu for about a year. You need to have a flu jab annually to make sure that you are protected against the latest strain of the virus. It is believed that the vaccine will protect you from the H1N1 strain for life. CAN I CATCH FLU FROM THE VACCINE? The seasonal flu vaccine only contains fragments of influenza virus (of various strains) this allows the development of immunity without the risk of infection.

8 8 SEPTEMBER 2015

ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS FROM THE VACCINE? The flu vaccine is very safe and is well tolerated. Like all medicines, flu vaccines can cause some side effects, although most people do not get them. Some people get a slight temperature and aching muscles for a couple of days afterwards and your arm may feel a bit sore where you were injected, this should disappear within a couple of days. CAN PREGNANT WOMEN HAVE THE VACCINATION? Women should tell the nurse if they are pregnant or think they may be. It is now recommended that pregnant women should have the flu vaccine at any stage of their pregnancy. It is probable that the flu vaccine will be offered free from the NHS to all pregnant women. CAN I GET A FLU JAB IF I'M BREASTFEEDING? Yes. WHEN CAN I GET THE FLU VACCINATION? At DOCTORnow we run flu clinics at both our Beaconsfield and Tring surgeries and have appointments running from 19th September through to the end of October. For more information about the flu vaccination or to book an appointment please call your local DOCTORnow Surgery. Beaconsfield 01494 410888 or Tring 01442 502999.

THE DETAILS Beaconsfield Surgery 01494 410888 Tring Surgery 01442 502999 www.doctornow.org

p89-Bucks-Ad-Various.qxp__ 14/09/2015 11:28 Page 1

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he truth is that it’s not about the weight. It’s never been about the weight. When a pill is discovered that allows people to eat whatever they want and not gain weight, the feelings and situations they turned to food to avoid will still be there and they will find other more inventive ways to numb themselves. In Groundhog Day, when he realized he wasn’t going to gain weight by eating a thousand cherry pies, Bill Murray ate like there was no tomorrow . But, the charge dissipated as soon as he realized he could have as much food as he wanted without the usual consequences. When you take the charge away, all that’s left is a no big deal piece of cherry pie. When you finish the pie, the thing that had nothing to do with the pie — that drove you to it is still there! Every time you feel stuck, every time you think you know why you are doing something, but you can't seem to make yourself do it differently – this sound familiar? Come and see me to try something different, be open to the outcome. Assume nothing. Be ready for anything. You will be constantly surprised.

Take the first step to a LighterLife Contact Dee McKenna on 01494 444828 or 07739 393957

p90-Bucks-Spire.qxp__ 14/09/2015 10:39 Page 1

HEALTH & BEAUTY

“MY CARE WAS FANTASTIC, I HAD NO PAIN AT ALL.”

t times we can all take the basic things in life for granted, but something as simple as being able to eat and drink without discomfort is probably something none of us ever have to think about. For one patient at Spire Harpenden Hospital this wasn’t the case, Katherine Sully had a condition called Achalasia, this meant that the muscles in her lower oesophagus didn’t relax, which made eating and eventually drinking extremely hard. Here Katherine tells her story. “I was first diagnosed in 2008, it started as a mild problem where I was struggling to eat tough or starchy foods and I’d often get chest pains at night. Initially when I was diagnosed I had two procedures called balloon dilation, unfortunately this was with limited success. At the time I didn’t want to go down the surgery route, which was the option I was left with, as I had a busy life and the symptoms at this time were manageable. “After a while the problem progressed and I was struggling to drink liquids, at this stage it was really starting to impact my life. It was difficult to dine out socially with friends and family anymore and I was beginning to feel depressed. That’s when I decided I needed to take action. “I met Mr Al-Bahrani through my local NHS hospital initially, but I have private medical insurance through my work so decided I would use that to receive my treatment privately. He always gave me plenty of time to discuss my concerns about surgery and explained the risks as well as the positive outcomes, it was a very balanced discussion. I was feeling nervous about surgery but Mr Al-Bahrani was great at helping me through the process and easing my nerves. 9 0 SEPTEMBER 2015

“I booked my surgery date for a couple of months after my first appointment, this gave me a chance to inform my work that I would need time off and meant I could pick a date that I knew my partner wasn’t going to be away with work. I went in for the surgery on the May bank holiday and stayed for two nights, my care was fantastic, I had no pain at all. When I initially woke up I actually thought ‘oh no they haven’t done it’, but of course I soon realised everything had gone as planned. “Now I’ve had my surgery I feel absolutely amazing, I can eat whatever I like and I can drink now too. It’s only when something goes back to how it should be that you realise how bad things were before, I was obviously getting dehydrated which was making me tired during the day. Now I feel more energised and I’m having a much more balanced diet now too. I feel like a weight has been lifted. I recently went out with my family for a Sunday roast and I could eat the same as everyone else and not even think twice about it. “Although there were risks associated with the surgery it was worth it.” Spire Harpenden Hospital is located on Ambrose Lane in Harpenden and is able to see patients for treatment as both outpatients and inpatients. Treatment is available to patients who have private medical insurance or those funding themselves. If you would like more information please do not hesitate to contact us. – Written by Sarah Chittenden THE DETAILS Self-funding enquiries: 01582 714420 Insured patients: 0800 585 112 Email: info@spireharpenden.com Website: www.spireharpenden.com

Rapid access to expert care You can get specialist Orthopaedic care at Spire Harpenden Hospital Our orthopaedic consultants specialise in: • Hip, minimally invasive hip replacement and revision surgery • Knee, whether sports related, arthritic changes or knee replacement • Shoulder, keyhole diagnostic procedures to shoulder replacement • Back and spine, simple pain management techniques to complex spinal surgery • Hand and wrist, carpel tunnel, arthroscopy to reconstructive work • Foot and ankle, from bunions to ankle and reconstructive surgery We are open to everyone, whether you insured or self-funding. To find out more about our inclusive care packages*, or to book an appointment please call us on

01582 714 420 www.spireharpenden.com

Ambrose Lane, Harpenden, Herts, AL5 4BP Finance options are available*

p92-Bucks-Shameek.qxp__ 11/09/2015 11:51 Page 1

HEALTH & BEAUTY

OUR AWARD OUR WINNING DENTIST So the New School year starts and it was a real bittersweet moment when we dropped our twin girls to start their first day at Secondary School. Off they went nervous yet excited on their next new adventure in growing up! So I thought I would give some top tips in looking after your oral health young & old to kick start the School Year.

oor oral health can manifest in many different ways. Missing, yellow or stained teeth are perhaps the most obvious signs, but things aren’t always what they seem, we have put together a list of some top oral health tips for good oral health to keep you smiling 1. Clean in between your teeth using interdental brushes or floss. This will help to clean a higher portion of the tooth and prevent the build-up of plaque 2. A diet that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fresh fruit and vegetables can help to prevent gum disease 3. Eating and drinking naturally weakens the enamel on your teeth, and brushing straight afterwards can cause tiny particles of enamel to be brushed away. It is best not to brush your teeth until at least one hour after eating 4. Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva to help prevent your mouth from drying out 5. If you are a nervous patient, make sure your dentist knows this, including what you most dislike about treatment 6. To test if you have bad breath, simply lick the inside of your wrist, let it dry and sniff. If the smell is bad, you can be fairly sure you have bad breath 7. Always tell your dentist about changes to your health, as it may help them prevent gum disease from developing 8. A glass of water is the best drink to give your child after eating sugary foods 9. Brush your teeth just before you go to bed and before you have anything to eat or drink at breakfast 10. Use a mouthwash containing anti-bacterial to help control gum disease 11. If you or your child has a sweet tooth, look for sugar-free sweets. Those containing Xylitol can help to reduce tooth decay 12. Quitting smoking will help you reduce the chances of developing a whole host of oral health problems, including gum disease, tooth decay, yellow teeth and mouth cancer 13. Don’t forget to brush your tongue, or use a tongue scraper 14. Visit your dentist or hygienist for regular advice and cleaning tips 15. Introduce your child to the sights and sounds of the dental practice at an early age to allay any dental phobia that might develop. Take them with you when you go for a check-up 16. Wean your baby off the bottle early to avoid them developing dental problems

9 2 SEPTEMBER 2015

17. Electric toothbrushes are more effective at removing plaque. Those with heads that rotate in both directions (‘oscillating’ heads) and pulsate are the most effective. They are particularly useful for people with limited movement, such as disabled or elderly people, who often find that using a manual toothbrush does not allow them to clean thoroughly 18. All children up to three years old, should use a smear of toothpaste with a fluoride level of no less than 1000ppm (parts per million). After three years old, they should use a toothpaste that contains 1350ppm -1500ppm 19. Parents should supervise their children’s tooth brushing, and use only a pea-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste until they are about 7 years old 20. If you have sensitivity when brushing your teeth with cold water from the tap, you may need to use warm water instead. It is important you do not avoid brushing your teeth regularly as this could make the problem worse 21. Cold sores are infectious and the infecting virus can be passed to other people by close contact (such as kissing). A cold sore is most infectious when it is blistering. It is important to try and avoid touching cold sores as you can pass the virus on to other people’s hands and even, very rarely, to your own eyes. Avoid squeezing, pinching or pricking the cold sore as this can spread the infection 22. If you wear dentures, the general rule is: brush, soak, brush. Always clean your dentures over a bowl of water or a folded towel in case you drop them. Brush your dentures before soaking, to help remove any food debris. Using an effervescent (fizzy) denture cleaner will help remove stubborn stains and leave your denture feeling fresher 23. It is better for your teeth and general health if you eat 3 meals a day plus no more than two snacks, instead of having lots of snack attacks ■

THE DETAILS Rosebank Dental Practice, Shire Lane, Chorleywood, Hertfordshire WD3 5NH Tel: 01923 282 691 www.rosebankdental.co.uk

p93-Bucks-Various.qxp 14/09/2015 16:23 Page 1

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p50-Bucks-Posture.qxp__ 02/09/2015 15:21 Page 1

HEALTH & BEAUTY

STRAIGHTEN UP YOUR SOFA TIME

t the end of a busy day, or even first thing on a Sunday morning, the sofa can seem an inviting place. While some seats are merely practical, sofas are all about comfort and relaxation, right? Somewhere to slouch in front of your favourite TV show, or curl up with a good book. Don't forget about your posture, though. We all know that sitting up straight is important when we're sitting at a desk - and sofas are no different. So show your spine some settee TLC, with these simple tipsâ&#x20AC;Ś DON'T SLUMP If you sit slouched, or slightly hunched over, you're likely to be piling the pressure on your lower back as it has to cope with the weight of your upper body. You'll need to strengthen your core and buttock muscles. MAKE SUREYOUR LOWER BACK IS SUPPORTED If there's a big gap between your lower back and the chair you're sitting on, you may need to make some adjustments (and this is something you should also keep an eye on if your job is a desk-bound one). Try and make sure your knees are level with your hips by adjusting your seat, or find yourself a foot rest. PLANTYOUR FEET FLAT ON THE FLOOR It's highly tempting to cross your legs nonchalantly, like that posh couple on Gogglebox, when you're watching TV (particularly if you have a glass of G&T in your hand). But this

SEPTEMBER 2015

can put pressure on your lower back over time. So try and keep your feet on the floor and resist the urge to cross them or tuck them under you. AVOID 'TEXT NECK' Many of us go from spending our nine to five bent over a computer keyboard to whiling away the evening hunched over a phone or tablet. In fact, smartphone users now spend an average of two to four hours a day with their heads lowered. This can lead to that all too common feeling of being stiff and sore around your upper back, shoulder blades and neck. Save yourself a fortune on pricey massages and try lengthening your neck as you tuck in your chin as an exercise. Alternatively, why not go old school and give someone a call instead of texting them? DON'T GET STUCK IN A RUT When there's a particularly gripping TV show on, it can be easy to develop the kind of rigor mortis seen in a Silent Witness corpse. But try and move around a bit to boost blood circulation. Shift position every half hour or so, or get up and walk around - even if it's just over to the kettle and back. GET THE FAMILY INVOLVED Working on your posture takes time and effort - it feels a lot comfier lounging under your blanket than sitting up straight. Why not get your partner, kids or friends on board for the posture crusade? When one of you looks at risk of slumping like a soggy-bottomed cake on Bake Off, give each other a gentle nudge. Your backs will thank you for it. â&#x2013;

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P70-Bucks-GardenTips.qxp__ 03/09/2015 10:42 Page 1

HOUSE & GARDEN

TIPS S FOR A GREAT T GARDEN N Nice gardens are very appea aling g. Man ny buyyers cite a thoughtfully designe designed ed and well-kept garden as a major m factor in their decision to buy a propertyy.

ith so many television programmes,, magazines and books devoted to gardening and nd outdoor design, house buyers are becomingg more ambitious and more discerning when en it comes to tracking down the garden of their dreams. Here are some hints for creating a perfect garden for your home. Choose a single theme or style. If you have acress of rolling grounds you can separate into diffferent areas, otherwise rwise you will need to pick one style and stick to that throughout. hout. It’s no good trying to create a harmonious and peaceful Zen en garden but then planting a riot of wildflowers in the middlee of it. Trying to mix a formal English-style garden with naturalistic ic parkland won’t work. Nothing spoils a perfect garden like a hodgepodge of styles. Consider your desires and your constraints in order der to fuel your creativity. Necessity is the mother of invention,, so think about what you need from your garden (a space to entertain? A place to grow fruit and vegetables? somewhere fo or children to play?) and come up with a creative solution. It’s possible p to create a formal-style garden but also be fairly self-sufficient. ufficient. If your garden sufffers from poor inner-city soil and d too much shade, be inventive. It’s possible to produce an English-style ish-style layout, but with decorative edibles rather than flowerr beds. Cut

SEPTEMBER 2015

back overhanging shade trees into neat borders and use raised beds to create an easy-to maintain, high-quality growing-ar -areas. It’s the perfect blend of desire meets constraints.

Plan yyour our spacee, and yyour our time carefullyy. A truly great garden is a well-planned garden... n... Draw out your garden in detail, making note of areass of shade and sun, damp and troublesome zones, areas of high traffic and sight lines. Use this plan to decide how you will use each part of the garden. Then decide what you’re goingg to plant and when. Diffferent plants have different growing seasons and if you plan your calendar well you’ll have a constant symphony ony of flowers, fruit or vegetables as one comes into season n as another dies back. You may have room for a swimming pool, or beautiful ul pond, so approach the experts in this case. Decide on the best garden furniture to suit your individual ividual needs, based on whether you have decking or a shelter ered space to entertain. With a little foresight and planning you can create a stylish and practical garden that will wow potential buyers.

02-FP-Ad-Master.qxp 10/09/2015 15:22 Page 1

Start from the Floor up When choosing a kitchen, flooring is one of the most important elements to consider, even as important as the kitchen itself. However, it is often the last thing to be decided. The kitchen floor is at the centre of our home. It will be walked on every day, many times by many feet, stamped on, spilled on, played upon, Yet many wrongly believe thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s its only flooring and its quality and durability can be compromised on. Which, in the end can mostly prove to be a false economy and a major headache. Fear not though, a high quality porcelain floor is all you need as the foundation of the busiest room in the house. Bibliotheque Porcelain tiles can only enhance your environment, they will give you year after year of unwavering service without diminishing in appearance. Whether your space is small or large, porcelain is the perfect flooring as the tiles come in various sizes, shades and finishes. You can have the look of Marble or Natural Stone, porcelain planks that replicate the look and feel of wood. Whatever your style, there is a tile for you and the possibilities are endless. Bibliotheque porcelain is highly durable, 3.5 times harder than granite and very low maintenance. It is non porous and requires no sealing. It is the ideal surface for keeping clean, especially if you have muddy shoes or paws running across it. So, when you are planning your Kitchen, start at the bottom. You can rest assure that with a porcelain floor, you and your familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s feet are on very safe and solid ground. You can find further information on porcelain tiles and view various ranges at Bibliotheque Tiles.

London Showroom: 020 8365 2084 Hertfordshire Showroom: 01707 649 932 www.bibliotheque.co.uk

p100-Bucks-Hazlemere.qxp__ 10/09/2015 19:09 Page 1

HOUSE & GARDEN

1 0 0 SEPTEMBER 2015

p100-Bucks-Hazlemere.qxp__ 10/09/2015 19:09 Page 2

achievemen nt’ for any supplier, particularlyy as 25% of traders fail during the assessment stage. It demon nstrates to customers that those who achieve Which Tr usted Trader statuus haavve pro oven themselves as haaving ving been b tr ustworthy up to that point, and that they are fir mly committed to offering complete fairness and d transparency at all times. Haaving suc s h statuus enables us to display the Which? h Trusted Traaders logo on all marketing materials which will giive custom mers added confidence when choosing a double ouble glazing supp plier ahead of anyy other local installation companyy. Which? Tr usted Traders r also provides its own ombudsmaan ser vice which supplies an independent dispute resolution w whenever any issues arise between a custtomer and schemee member. This is juustt the latestt in a series of industry recognised accreditation ns that Hazlemere Window Companyy Ltd holds, as they are also a FENSA Re Registered Installers (N No. 105589), ISO 9001 acccredited for qualittyy managementt and ISO O 14001 for waste m management, as they re-cycle all the old windo ndows, doors and conservatories they remove. In addition Hazle azlemere pro ovide an iindependentt insurance backed warrantty with every windo ow or door d or conservatory they install.

Hazlemere p provide an independent p insurance nce bac b ked d warrranty with h everyy windo d w or door door or cconservatory the heyy install l Then in 2015 to further reinforce their credentials als Hazlemere Windows became members of the Glasss and Gl i Federation Glazing d i (GGF), (GGF) signing i i up to the h GGF F’s Consumer Code of Good Practice, ensuring any deeposits paid by consumers are protected by the GGF’s Deposit p Indemnity Fund. Some double glazing companies are sadly still renowned even in these more consumer informed times for duubious selling techniques - so it’s reallyy little wonder thatt onl only ly around 6% of Which? members say they trustt glazin glazing ng firms. No wonder then, that the vast majority of Which? members who took part in the sur vey in 2014 decid ded to use independent double glazing installers to carry out work on their properties rather than use big brand names, with some citing the traders traders’ need to maintain theirr strong reputations in the community as the reason for goin ng local. In 2014, Which? asked 2,872 of their members quuestions concerning their experience of double glazing installlation and companies. All had double glazing installed in the h previous 5 years with either a local/independent firm or a big name such as Anglian, Everest, Safestyle or Zeniith. Which? asked them to rate the double glazing suupplier they used for various aspects of their experience, suuch as quotation process and customer ser vice. This Which? double glazing company customer satisfaction sur vey carried out last year showed thatt the big four national brands – Zenith ((40% customer satisffaction), ), Safestyle (54%), Anglian (56%) and Everest (59%) did

not do as well as local independent compan nies and traders who had a much higher h customer satisfaction rating of 82%. Whicch? is unbiased and are indepen ndent consumer champions, who say they buy every product they test andd don’t accept at face value what any “addvertising” might claim, so it is therefore advice consumers can trust. When deciding to replace windows or doors Which? advises that you should conttact at leastt three glaziers and organise for them to visit you o at home. Some double glazing companies still sadly use aggressiive sales techniques. If whilstt in your home a doublle glazing sales person starts offering time-sensitive discount o s, or calls ‘head office’ and similar scams, then alarm beells should sound. The aim of each visit to your home should be for you to end up with 3 comparable le quotes in writing and to meet the fir m that will be spending pending days or weeks at your propertyy. A good double glazing azing supplier should never pressure you into a sale – nev ever agree to anything on the spot. As Which? advises “remember emember that the cheapest quote might not be the best.” Recommendations countt for a lot in the glazing industry. If friends, family o or neighbours can’t help, look at reviews for local glazing companies on Which? Tr usted Traders. Seek evidence of aappropriate specialties – as for example a double glazing company ompany might be experts in aluminium or UPVC double glazing, or casement and sash windows or say timber winddows. Those that rate well on customer ser vice skills are more likely to resolve any future problems with the product or the installation.

THE DET TAILS AILS For free help and advicee from independent experts with over 30 years experience e , contact High Wycombe and Welwyn n Garden City based Which Trusted Traders Hazlem mere Window Company p y on 01 or visitt www.hazlemere.co.uk SEPTEMBER 2015 1 0 1

p102-Bucks-Willow&Hall.qxp__ 11/09/2015 10:00 Page 1

HOUSE & GARDEN

Willow & Hall’s

Rather Remarkable New showroom

Willow & Hall design and sell inspirational living & bedroom furniture, lovingly handmade in Britain YWMRK XLI ÁRIWX QEXIVMEPW JSV I\GITXMSREP ZEPYI

illow & Hall understand the importance for some customers to have the opportunity to try before they buy. Therefore, whilst their focus will continue to be as an online retailer, their new showroom expands their offering to those customers. Willow & Hall design and sell inspirational living and bedroom furniture, lovingly handmade in Britain using the finest materials, for exceptional value. All designs come with a large selection of fabrics and leathers and a choice of seat fillings. Sofa Beds include three mattress options, all with a depth of 14cm, meaning they’re perfect for occasional or everyday use. Their much-anticipated, rather remarkable showroom is now open and is situated in a unique period Victorian property in London’s chic and prestigious Chiswick. This intriguing space, situated over two floors and full of sunlight, offers the opportunity for customers to immerse in the wonders of their high-quality, handmade British furniture. Upon entering, Willow & Hall guarantee that this immersive shopping experience is like no other... one where the many facets of handcraftsmanship are brought to life in a fun and engaging, yet informative way. The whole family can indulge in their sumptuous designs, experience an array of customisable options and handpick a perfect fabric or leather in a curious haberdashery room. Simply put, this showroom is somewhere a smile is created and at every turn there is something unexpected. The friendly showroom team will provide a cuppa or a refreshing drink so you can feel at home right away, and talk you through their designs or leave you to comfort test their selection. Customers can purchase via their website willowandhall.co.uk or over the phone, or at the showroom. From swatches to delivery, Willow & Hall guarantee that their friendly customer services team will be able to assist at all stages of purchase. Customers also benefit from free delivery in around four weeks to the UK Mainland and a no quibble 14-day free returns policy included on all purchases, whatever the customisation. To find out more about visiting the showroom, simply visit willowandhall.co.uk/contact-us. Alternatively, for further information, contact the friendly customer services team by phoning 0845 468 0577.

THE DETAILS Visit www.willowandhall.co.uk or call 0845 468 0577 Orchard Place, 1A Thornton Avenue, Chiswick, London, W4 1PL Mon,Tues,Thurs 10:00-19:00;Wed 10:00-20.00; Fri, Sat 10:00-18:00; Sun 10:00-17:00

102

SEPTEMBER 2015

By tube:Turnham Green, 5 min walk; Stamford Brook, 10 min walk; Chiswick Park, 15 min walk By train: Gunnersbury, 20 min walk By car: On-street pay meter parking is also available close to the showroom.

p103-Bucks-Ad-Various.qxp__ 14/09/2015 11:33 Page 1

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p68-Essex-Origin.qxp__ 10/09/2015 09:34 Page 1

HOUSE & GARDEN

SAY GOODBYE TO SUMMER

with a Smile

he last days of summer are, for some, a time to put away the flip flops, put down the holiday novel and pack away the swimming costumes as the cold and wet weather sets in. The shorter days and darker nights, however, are no reason to batten down the hatches. Despite the weather making it just that little bit harder to find the motivation for an evening run or morning workout, there’s no reason that rain should stop play. A home swimming pool from Origin Leisure opens up a world of opportunities during the autumn and winter months to come. While outdoor pools need to be shut down for winter, an Origin Leisure indoor pool can be enjoyed all year round. What’s more, the dark winter nights are the ideal backdrop to showcase beautiful bespoke interior pool house lighting, great for entertaining; while a warm pool building lets you soak up views of the garden all year round, without feeling the frost. In fact, there may be more benefits of a home swimming pool in winter than you realise.

ENJOY THE GARDEN ALLYEAR ROUND The latest research shows that the average British homeowner spends nearly 20 days a year gardening. Sadly, as soon as the sun disappears it leaves us little time to enjoy all our hard work. Origin Leisure can incorporate thermally efficient bi-folding doors in any pool house design, meaning you can enjoy a perfect view of the garden all year round. Kerrie Smith and her family experienced the benefits of bi-fold doors in their pool house, as she explains: “Even when the sun isn’t out you still have the warmth of the building. The 10

SEPTEMBER 2015

bi-fold doors are wonderful as it can be chucking down with rain and it doesn’t matter. The children can still get out the house to play somewhere safe and warm. The weather was so bad this winter at one point and I was so grateful to be able to go into the building, sink into the sofa, close my eyes and pretend I was somewhere else. It’s an extension of the home and also somewhere we can escape to. “ WARM AWAY THE WINTER BLUES Getting caught in torrential downpours will leave you freezing and soaked from head to toe, but a built in steam room is the best form of winter warmer that’s sure to get your circulation going. Each Origin Leisure swimming pool can be tailored to include different features. During the autumn months a steam room and sauna are ideal for warming your cockles, while adding a few drops of essential oils will also lift your mood. Lemon oil has uplifting qualities to put a spring in your step, while a few drops of lavender or sandlewood will help you wind down after a busy day. Eucalyptus oil is also great for warding off autumn colds and flu.

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STAY MOTIVATED With the changing seasons comes the urge to hang up the gym gear and go into hibernation, but research shows that keeping up the exercise will keep the seasonal blues at bay and leave you feeling on top of the world. Staying motivated is no mean feat in September and October when darker evenings make it less safe to use the great outdoors as a place to work out, and you’re often battling against wind and rain. That’s why many Origin Leisure customers choose to incorporate a home gym into their swimming pool design, with the very latest state of the art gym equipment to help keep motivation levels high. It also means you have somewhere warm and dry to work out all year round, in the privacy of your own home. AUTUMN GATHERINGS AND WINTER PARTIES The flurry of summer soirees needn’t come to an end in autumn, as a pool house is the perfect venue to host gatherings with friends and family when it’s not quite hot enough for a garden party.

Origin Leisure’s indoor pools can be designed to fit your entertaining needs, with a bar and kitchen area, TV screens and additional seating areas -the sky is the limit for turning your pool house into a social space. The experts at Origin Leisure can advise on the best lighting effects to showcase the inside and outside of the building during the darker months, while including skylights will mean you can look up at the stars during your evening swim. ABOUT ORIGIN LEISURE Origin Leisure is an award winning company with over 30 years’ experience creating beautiful bespoke swimming pools, designed to your specification. The company manages the whole swimming pool installation process from concept to completion, which means all elements of the design and build of your pool are taken care of. ■

THE DETAILS www.originleisure.com

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HOUSE & GARDEN

TREASURE HUNTING

inding treasures is local auctioneers Jones and Jacob in Watlington most exciting and rewarding part of their role in dispersing house contents and helping clients to realise the best results. Amongst many exciting and unusual items are objects like the African Heddle pulley sold in August for £300, a rare and well preserved example. Similarly rare were a pair of Doulton Grebes which sold for £3,600, despite a broken beak, thought to be unrecorded. Auctioneer Simon Jones says that his favourite item so far was a snuff box that belonged to Isambard Kingdom Brunel, “One of the few items you can call unique, it is so special to hold something as personal as a snuff box belonging to a figure who left such a mark on the country” It seemed good value at £16,800. From a garage came an Italian terracotta panel of a river God which realised £5,500, you never know what might turn up where, auctioneers love attics, shed and stores, preferably unopened or visited for years. Recently brought in, in a paper bag, were some plates and a coffee cup and saucer which were on RRS Discovery in 1901 when she sailed with Scott, Wilson, Lashly and Shackleton on her first voyage to the Antarctic, individual coffee cups have sold for up to £1000 at auction, it will be interesting to see how well these items sell in their special 108

SEPTEMBER 2015

maritime section on the 9th of September. On a more modest scale is a first period Worcester spoon tray sent in by a local charity and originally priced at 50p and expected to sell for around £50. “Auctioneers like us were amongst the first professions to recycle items, with all lots preowned and needing to find new homes as they have long futures” With upcycling and repurposing buzzwords of today it would seem that there will also be a long future for the local saleroom. In the monthly sales at the new saleroom there are some 600 lots to choose from every time. Coming soon is a rare copy of the speech of Charles I from the scaffold in Whitehall printed in 1650 expected to make some £500-600, the most interesting item in that particular estate. Also available will be fine oak refectory table from the late 18th century and a set of ten chairs that work well together. Further details and the online catalogue can be found at www.jonesandjacob.com. ■

THE DETAILS Watcombe Manor Saleroom, Ingham Lane, Watlington OX49 5EJ Tel: 01491 612810 saleroom@jonesandjacob.com www.jonesandjacob.com

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Individually Designed and Professionally Installed fully project managed by our own in house installation team, or supply only • refurbished bathroom showroom • friendly personal service - established 1989 • kitchens also available with a 10 year guarantee • Tel. 01753 655255 email: colin@cameobathrooms.co.uk

cameo bathrooms 5 High Street, Iver, Buckinghamshire SL0 9ND (10 minutes from junction 1, M40 – easy parking)

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Where Lakeside started In 1986 Tony and Marlene Clarke started in business. From humble beginnings in Ruislip, Middlesex to 3500 sq.ft. of showrooms in Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire, employing 10 staff. “It just grew naturally”, says Tony, being a Carpenter by trade and having extensive building knowledge he could see that some bathrooms/kitchens could be utilised much better if they did building alterations, “so we took on the whole thing and made some amazing spaces for people”.

Moving to Gerrards Cross Starting in one showroom in the Finlandia Centre, Oxford Road, in the year 2000 to eventually buying and extending the whole building to suit their needs. Lakeside were able to show quality products that they would be happy to install and put their name to, but still keep at affordable prices.

What they do Lakeside will supply goods but most of their work is installations, creating designs for individual lifestyles. They undertake building works as well as the Kitchen, Bathroom and Bedroom installations, which takes them to a different level to other installers. Tony has been in the building industry for over 40 years, doing total house refurbishments and extensions with his other company. Lakeside manufacture a lot of what they sell and install. They have a variety of bathroom vanity units, kitchens and wardrobes that can be designed and finished in any colour you wish. Lakeside specialise in wet floors and bespoke 10mm glass shower doors made to order and UV welded on site, many with unusual configurations. They also undertake wood panelling, again finished to your specification.

Lakeside Bathrooms Housing some of the top brands like Laufen, Kohler Artweger, Bette, Geberit, Aquaclean, Hansgrohe and being an Axor centre, to name only a few. Bespoke cabinetry manufactured by them. The showrooms show modern and traditional sanitary ware. Stunning showers and taps some with LED lights, with working displays, working steam room and wet floors on show for you to see how it could look in your home. With plumbing, plastering, electrical works, tiling all installed by their own qualified, employed staff.

The Lakeside Group, Oxford Road, Gerrards Cross, Bucks, SL9 7RH • Tel: 01753 887 281 • Email: info@lakesidegroup.eu

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Lakeside Kitchens As well as Lakesides own bespoke designed kitchens, they now offer Schroder German kitchens. They offer all the latest appliances by Neff, Siemens, Falmec and Barazza & Barazza Fusion which is bespoke designed sinks and hobs. They use Quartz and Granite worktops and various styles of kitchen taps also glass splash backs. Taking time to listen and design your kitchen with the latest drawing packages so you can see a photo image of what your kitchen will look like. They, unlike other kitchen installers undertake the whole job, their employed, plumbers, plasterers, tilers to NAPIT registered Electricians and Gas Safe engineers, unlike others who just fit the cabinets and leave the rest for the customer to find.

Lakeside Bedrooms Bespoke wardrobes, mirrored doors, sliding or hinged, some with fret work or shaker style all finished to your choice of colour, handles etc. are on show as well as glass sliding wardrobes doors and sleek Italian designed doors. The concept showrooms show the designs possible with all the internal storage ideas, all fitted by their employed staff.

Tiles There is a dedicated tile showroom showing Porcelain, Ceramic and Mosaic tiles, large or small your sure to find a tile that suits you. Being a Karndean Flooring Centre, gives you the option, should you not want to tile your kitchen or bathroom there is a wide choice of designs in this range.

Towel Rails A large of towel brushed or chrome are also many radiators.

selection rails in polished on show, designer

Accessories A wide range of solid brass accessories with 10 year guarantees are available and all are on show for you to see.

The Lakeside Group A lifestyle designed for you

Tel: 01753 887 281 info@lakesidegroup.eu

www.lakesidegroup.eu • www.lakesidekitchens.co.uk • www.lakesidebathrooms.co.uk • www.lakesidebedrooms.co.uk

LaurenGilberthorpe-Sept15.qxp 10/09/2015 15:13 Page 1

“Quite simply I ‘hated’ my house and wanted to love it again! This was also the first time of using an interior designer. Lauren made us feel very comfortable, relaxed, inspired and excited. The final result is nothing short of WOW , I love it! Lauren was a pleasure to do business with and I would highly recommend her! “ Emma, Oxford

ideas!” ul f er nd wo d an gy er en ve ti si po of “full Gerda, London

Based in Rickmansworth and working throughout the Chilterns and West London, experienced Interior Designer, Lauren Gilberthorpe, designs and manages a wide variety of small and large-scale interior design projects. From individual houses, seaside retreats and showhomes through to luxury spa hotels and country estates, her wide ranging expertise in the industry enables her to offer a range of tailored design packages.

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p114-Bucks-LaurieGear.qxp__ 14/09/2015 11:36 Page 1

FOOD & DRINK

LAURIE

GEAR

FOOD IDEAS AND NEWS FROM THE ARTICHOKE

he Team at the Artichoke have just returned from a well-deserved late Summer break, feeling fully recharged and inspired for the Autumn Season ahead. The leaves on the trees are beginning to change from a vibrant green to a subtle red and amber tone but still there is always the hope of a balmy Indian Summerr! We are just getting busy setting up the Artichoke's raised garden vegetable beds, ready to plant with seasonal and organic vegetable crops for the year, which will serve as inspiration for the new menus ahead. Autumn is a time to gather the last produce from natures store cupboard and make use of all the garden has to offer before it lies still over winter with the harvest of English apples, pears and plum. What better way to celebrate this most delicious of free bounties than to gather your family and indulge in a spot of blackberry picking, simply select an area away from any possible traffic fume contamination and fill your

baskets. Also the hazelnut tree offers up its harvest, if you can get to it before the grey squirrels gorge themselves!. This simple blackberry and hazelnut trifle provides the perfect umptious dessert to award your well earned labour. ■

What better way to celebrate this most delicious of free bounties than to gather your family and indulge in a spot of blackberry picking

BLACKBERRY AND HAZELNUT TRIFLE unwanted vanilla pod • Lightly toast the hazelnuts in a pan with a little butter – roughly chop • Cut the lemon sponge into small cubes and drizzle with the Frangelico. Place the soaked sponge on top of the blackberries in the glass dishes • Add a scattering of chopped toasted hazelnuts. Then add a layer of the cooled custard

INGREDIENTS BLACKBERRY JELLY 450 gms fresh blackberries 1 tablespoon woodland berry conserve Dash of crème de mure (black berry liqueur) 2 leaves of leaf gelatine FRESH EGG CUSTARD 6 free range egg yolks 1 level tablespoon caster sugar 250ml milk 50ml double cream 1 vanilla pod 50 gms hazelnuts 250 gms quality lemon sponge or Madeira cake 125 ml frangelico TO FINISH Toasted hazelnuts and whole blackberries

METHOD BLACKBERRY JELLY • In a heavy bottomed pan, place the blackberries (reserve a few for decoration), the conserve and the crème de mure • Heat gently for 2- 3 minutes to lightly poached the berries • Strain through a sieve to separate the juice from the berries • Soak the gelatine in a little cold water until soft and then add to hot blackberry juice, stir until

BOOKING INFO

114

SEPTEMBER 2015

TO SERVE Whip a little extra double cream and place a spoonful in the centre of each glass and decorate with your toasted hazelnuts and fresh blackberries. dissolved • Place your cooled blackberries at the bottom of 4 tumbler/sundae glass dishes, then just cover with your liquid jelly mixture. Place in the fridge to set FRESH EGG CUSTARD • Lightly whisk your egg yolks and sugar together Split the vanilla pod and scrape out the seeds with a sharp knife • Heat the milk and cream in a pan together with the split vanilla pod and its seeds to near boiling • Add a little of the hot milk and cream to the egg yolks, whisk together and then add back into the pan with the remaining milk cream mixture • Continue to cook on a very low heat gently whisking all the time until the custard coats the back of your spoon. Allow to cool and then remove the

THE GOOD FOOD GUIDE 2016 AND AUTUMN LUNCH TASTING OFFER The Artichoke is delighted to have moved up five places in this year's guide, which is celebrating its 65th edition, to 23rd in the UK Top 50 Restaurants, with a fantastic cooking score of 7/10 and a Notable Wine List - a great achievement for the team! To celebrate, we invite LE readers to sample our Autumn Lunch Tasting Menu, with a complimentary Autumnal Kir Royale with Crème de Mûre. Lunch Tasting Oﬀer is available for up to six guests from Tuesday to Friday lunchtime until the end of September 2015 for just £38 per person - optional wine flight £18

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

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Weekend Retreat in The Royal Forest of Dean Are you looking for a delightful property to enjoy your weekends?

A delightful four bedroom detached bungalow with lovely gardens double garage, off road parking and views across the Linear Park and no onward chain. An extended four bedroom detached bungalow set within its own gardens and in an elevated position with views across the Linear Park and woodland beyond. The accommodation comprises entrance hall, open plan lounge/dining room, kitchen, four bedrooms (one with ensuite shower room) and bathroom. The property further benefits double glazing, a gas heating system, enclosed gardens, off road parking and double garage. Tenure: Freehold ENTRANCE VIA Double glazed door to: ENTRANCE HALL, Storage cupboard, radiator. LOUNGE/DINING ROOM 20'3" reducing to 10'3" x 11'2" (6.17m reducing to 3.12m x 3.4m) Feature fireplace with coal effect gas fire, two radiators, double glazed window to rear overlooking the garden. KITCHEN 11'0" x 9'6" (3.35m x 2.9m) Range of base, drawer and wall cabinets including upright pull-

out shelf unit and corner swivel cupboard, roll edged worksurfaces, one and half bowl stainless steel sink unit with mixer tap, space for fridge freezer, built-in electric double oven, five ring gas hob, part-tiled walls, double glazed window to rear overlooking the garden, door to the rear garden, radiator. BEDROOM ONE 12'9" x 10'1" (3.89m x 3.07m) Double glazed window to front with views over the Linear Park and woodland beyond, radiator, built-in wardrobes with cupboards above, concertina door to: BEDROOM FOUR 11'5" x 9'9" (3.48m x 2.97m) Double glazed window to front with views over the Linear Park and woodland beyond, radiator. ENSUITE 9'8" x 5'4" (2.95m x 1.63m) White suite comprising W.C., wash hand basin, tiled shower cubicle, obscured double glazed window to rear, heated towel rail. BEDROOM TWO/RECEPTION ROOM TWO 12'2" x 9'7" (3.71m x 2.92m) Double glazed window to rear, radiator. BEDROOM THREE 8'0" x 8'0" (2.44m x 2.44m) Built-in wardrobe, double glazed window to front with views

over the Linear Park and woodland beyond. BATHROOM 8'0" x 5'10" (2.44m x 1.78m) White suite comprising panelled bath with shower over, W.C., wash hand basin, part-tiled walls, obscured double glazed window to rear, radiator. OUTSIDE The property is approached via a sweeping driveway to the side leading to an off road parking area with further off road parking immediately to the front of the double garage as well as hardstanding to the front of the driveway. The tiered garden comprises of lawned areas with walled and fenced boundaries with further patio area to the side and decked veranda with wrought iron surround and views over the gardens towards the Linear Park and woodland opposite. There is a cellar under the veranda suitable for wine storage etc. Pathway continues around the property to the rear garden which is enclosed by walled boundaries. Also within the gardens is a substantial storage building and tool/garden shed. DETACHED DOUBLE GARAGE 17'0" x 16'0" (5.18m x 4.88m) Two sets of wooden double doors, power and light.

For further information please call 01594 829542 or 07775 593713

02-FP-Ad-Master.qxp 10/09/2015 15:14 Page 1

“Spacious family home just a stone’ stone’ss throow from Beaconsfield N New To own”

The Gable Wall Wall . Beaconsfield

P Price Guide

£1,150,000 , ,

Thought to be originally a dairy dating back to 1905, 5, this delightful property was converted around 1950 to create a spacious family amily home just a stone’s throw from Beaconsfield New Town Town with its main line ne station and selection of bars, rrestaurants, estaurants, and shops; both major chain and individual boutiques. Beaconsfield Old T Town own with its unique charm is a comfortable walk or short drive away y.. The prroperty operty has potential to extend and plans have been passed (since e elapsed but being reapplied reapplied for) to crreate a substantial 3 storrey eyy, 6 bedroom, o 4 bathrroom, oom, 5 reception e room room family fam mily home. The Gable Wall Wall is tucked away behind high maturre e hedging which opens to the generrous ous gravelled driveway d with parking for several cars and a detached double garage. garage The imprressive essive L-shaped double aspect sitting room, room, which opens on to the rear rear garrden, den, has a part vaulted ceiling and featurres es a stunning ornate gas firreplace eplace with granite hearth, cast irron on surrround ound and stone mantle. The double aspect kitchen/brreakfast eakfast room room has a compre ehensive range of Shaker style units with granite worktop over and matching central island incorporating a brreakfast eakfast barr.. The beautiful limestone tiles have underfloor heating and double Frrench ench doors open to the garrden. den. Therre e arre e four spacious bedrrooms ooms with the finest being the double aspect well-prroportioned oportioned master bedrroom oom with vaulted ceiling and en suite shower room. room. A family bathrroom completes the accommodation. The rear rear garrden den is fully enclosed, has a south westerly aspect, and is apprroximately oximately 150' in depth. It is mainly laid to lawn with an extensive range of maturre e trrees, ees, shrubs and planting. EPC rating F. F. Contact tact Ashington A hing Page e on 01494 6800 680018 8 to oa arrange ange a viewing g of this stunning ning g prroperty opertyy.

02-FP-Ad-Master.qxp 10/09/2015 15:15 Page 1

“This warm and welcoming hom me enjoys an elevated position and exceptional nal views”

Hunters Wood . Hazlemere

£1,350,000 , ,

Hunters W Wood ood is an elegant 1930's detached, family mily home, set in a quiet, leafy y, private road with 0.631 acres of beautifully landscaped andscaped gardens. This warm and welcoming home enjoys an elevated position and exceptional views. It is ideally situated within easy access of Hazlemerre e and the larger centrres es of o High Wycombe, Beaconsfield and Amersham with their comprrehensive ehensive shopping and sporting facilities and main line and undergrround ound stations giving easy access to London. Hunters Wood is in catchment forr,, and close c to, a comprrehensive ehensive range of sought after state schools including Sir William Ramsay School, The Royal Grammar school and John Hampden Grammar school, for boys, Beaconsfield High and Wycombe High School ool for girls. Nearby private schools include Godstowe, Godstowe Davenies Davenies, Wycombe Abbey and High Marrch. ch ch. The currrent ent owners have extensively and carrefully efully rrenovated enovated this prroperty opertyy, including new top of the range bathrrooms. They have redecorated redecorated thro oughout so that this five bedrroom oom family home now prrovides ovides spacious flexible accommodation coupled with attractive outside entertaining are eas including a wooden decked patio which is a natural sun-trap and the perfect hideaway for a quiet cofffee fee with the papers. One of the main featurres es of Hunters W Wood ood is the beautiful South facing rear e garrden den which has been extensively re-landscaped for minimum maintenance. A spacious sandstone terrace provides o an idyllic setting for outdoor entertaining or relaxing e in complete privacy while enjoying the fabulous views over the garrden den and woods beyond. The selection of maturre e specimen trrees ees and evergrreen een shrubs prrovide ovide colour and interrest est thrroughout oughout the seasons. Maturre e hedging and the local woodland emphasise the sense of quiet and privacyy.. Contact Ashing Ashington Page e on 01494 6800 680018 to arrange a viewing i off this wond wonderful derful p prroperty opertyy.

05-DP-Ad-Master.qxp__ 01/09/2015 19:43 Page 1

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Exemplary, In Every Detail Always wanted a stunning new home designed to your every specification, in a beautiful setting of your choice? Then you should consider speaking to Octagonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bespoke division, which has been creating award-winning properties for more than 35 years. Octagon has become the leader in its field by specifying the finest materials, fixtures and fittings. This applies to every detail, from hand-made bricks and marble floors to custom-designed cabinetry and spectacular bespoke-built staircases. To discover how you could fulfil your dream, call Octagon on 020 8481 7500 or email johnp@octagon.co.uk

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05-DP-Ad-Master__ 10/09/2015 15:09 Page 1

SADDLE STONES ST. GEORGE’S HILL đ SURREY

On St. George’s Hill Octagon is delighted to extend a personal invitation to view this magnificent new gated residence, located within the internationally acclaimed St. George’s Hill Estate. Built to an exacting specification, the spacious and lavish accommodation features an impressive kitchen/ breakfast room, 6 bedroom suites, cinema room, staff accommodation, lift access to all 3 floors and an integral triple garage with car turntable. A particular feature of the house are the beautifully landscaped grounds, with an outdoor swimming pool and spectacular views which can be enjoyed from the full width terrace off the Master bedroom suite. Saddle Stones is located on Old Avenue, arguably St. George’s Hill’s most enviable address. This private gated estate is controlled during the day by the estate’s security personnel and access is restricted at all times. London Waterloo can be reached in approximately 30 minutes from Weybridge train station with Heathrow and Gatwick airports easily accessible via the M25 and M23 motorways.

Price £8.5m Old Avenue, St. George’s Hill, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 0PZ Open weekends 10am - 4pm Octagon: 020 8481 7500 Octagon has other fine properties for sale in north London and the Home Counties with prices currently ranging from £3.25m.

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