St Albans Life Magazine December 2013

ST ALBANS LIFE

ST ALBANS LIFE W I T H D E S I R A B L E A R E A S A C R O S S B E A U T I F U L H E RT F O R D S H I R E ISSUE 87

DECEMBER 2013

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WWW.THELIFEMAGAZINES.COM THE QUALITY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2013

The Deer Of Hatfield House St Albans Christmas Market

George Street, A Hidden Gem Get Your Skates On

LOCAL LIFE | HISTORY | EVENTS | BEAUTY | HOME & GARDEN | PROPERTY

Welcome to our December issue...

Hatfield House forms the centre piece of the largest private estate in Hertfordshire, with the woodlands covering an extensive spread across the county. Thus they offer a rich diversity of habitat and species. The woodland types range from the traditional coppice with standards, woodland and include commercial conifer broadleaved mixtures, continuous cover systems and minimum intervention woodlands. There have been deer parks at Hatfield House since the 13th century when the park was under the control of the Bishops of Ely. After 1,000 years of a regular market, St Albans is holding its first Christmas Market with 42 stalls. The 24-day event will take place in the beautiful Vintry Garden – a walled garden adjacent to the magnificent 11th-century St Albans Cathedral.

Visitors will enjoy browsing the high quality produce on offer in up to 42 traditional wooden chalets circling the Cathedral and into the Vintry Gardens. The pretty Cathedral quarter sits right at the centre of a triangle of St Albans ‘oldest’ treasures.

This Valentine’s Day the luxury Brocket Hall estate is embracing good, old-fashioned romance by opening the doors of its opulent 18th Century manor to lovebirds looking to escape the hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in the amorous day.

The motor industry has come a long way in providing more choice than ever and it couldn’t be further away from Henry Ford’s original colour palette - anything, as long as it’s black. This diversity has allowed cars like the G 63 AMG to exist.

If you’re not familiar with the G-Class, or G-Wagen as it is often called, a little history is required to fully understand the planet it has just arrived from.

This gives you just a small taste of exciting events & articles featured in this month’s issue...

GET THIS EDITION ONLINE

Faye Manning Faye Manning Editor

PUBLISHED BY THE FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD, THE RIDINGS, WOODFIELD LANE, ESSENDON, HERTS , AL9 6JJ.

0844 800 8439

www.thelifemagazines.com EDITOR Faye Manning EDITOR’S ASSISTANT Katie Miller SUB EDITOR Alex Lux SENIOR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Jade Hughes DESIGN & PRODUCTION Toni Perry ACCOUNT MANAGERS Sinead Sheil, Anita Hill SALES James Marshall DIRECTORS Rory Smith, Patrick Smith

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St Albans Christmas Market

After 1,000 years of a regular market, St Albans is holding its first Christmas Market with 42 stalls

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he 24-day event will take place in the beautiful Vintry Garden – a walled garden adjacent to the magnificent 11th-century St Albans Cathedral. Visitors will enjoy browsing the high quality produce on offer in up to 42 traditional wooden chalets circling the Cathedral and into the Vintry Gardens. The pretty Cathedral quarter sits right at the centre of a triangle of St Albans ‘oldest’ treasures: the only working Medieval Clock Tower; the oldest Public School in the country; and, for visitors to the market who fancy a pint of real ale, the oldest pub in the UK, The Fighting Cocks, just at the foot of the Abbey Orchard, a stone’s throw from the Cathedral.

Tickets to visit are £5.00 and available from the on-site Christmas Market Information Chalet. Children aged 0 – 8 years welcome and bring your family. Santa’s will be in his grotto at the following times: Monday - Santa’s day off , Tuesday - 1pm – 6pm, Wednesday - 1pm – 6pm, Thursday - 1pm – 8pm, Friday - 1pm – 6pm, Sat/Sun - 10am – 6pm Each visit to Santa costs £5. Please note that tickets can only be paid for in cash as Santa’s elf doesn’t have a credit card machine available. There are also lots of family activities and fun, crafts, art, glitter and magic for children on offer at St Albans Christmas market. The Activity Chalet, in the grounds of the Cathedral, opens its doors at noon each day and closes at 6pm.

Entertainers, twinkly lights and plenty of Christmas cheer will add to the festive atmosphere – and don’t miss Carols on the Hour, on the hour, every hour from 11.00 to 16.00 on 21st December in St Albans Cathedral.

CHRISTMAS AT THE CATHEDRAL

COME AND VISIT ST ALBANS THIS FESTIVE SEASON, AND REDISCOVER CHRISTMAS...

Enjoy a very special Cathedral event! Each carol service lasts just 30 minutes - enough time to sing some uplifting carols with the Cathedral choirs and to get a real taste of Christmas in this beautiful, atmospheric Cathedral. No tickets required. On the hour, every hour from 11.00 to 16.00.

Dates and opening times; Thursday 28th November – Saturday 21st December inclusive. Open daily: 10am – 6pm Sunday - Wednesday , 10am – 6pm Friday & Saturday 10am – 8pm Thursdays PRODUCTS Christmas market stalls confirmed will be selling a range of high-quality goods, from speciality food and drink, such as Bratwurst sausages and mulled wine, to wooden toys, Christmas decorations, hand-made clothes and gifts. There will be unique and festive gifts to surprise and delight visitors. Visitors will be able to the support the local economy in the area of the market promoting products made in the three neighbouring counties of Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire. See lower down the page for details of what will be on sale at the market.

SANTA! Santa’s magical Christmas grotto, all decked out with festive sparkle, will be in Waxhouse Gate, next to the Vintry Garden. The elves will be on hand to help Santa give out the presents – one for every child. And remember to post your letter in Santa’s post box.

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Carols on the Hour, Saturday 21st December CHRISTMAS TOWER TOURS Enjoy spectacular views of the city from the Tower of St Albans Cathedral!

Tickets cost £8 and are available from the Cathedral Bookshop or by phone 01727 890213. Minimum age 11. Restrictions apply.

Tours will take place at the dates and times listed below: Saturday 30th November - tours at: 11.30, 13.00 and 14.30, Wednesday 4th December tours at: 12.30 and 14.00, Saturday 7th December - tours at: 11.30, 13.00 and 14.30, Wednesday 11th December - tours at: 12.30 and 14.00 FREE Guided Tours of the Cathedral are available daily at the following times: 11.30 Monday to Saturday, 14.00 Saturday, 14.30 Sunday to Friday If your time is limited, our Highlights Tour takes place at 13.05 every day of the week. There are special services and carol concerts throughout December – go to www.stalbanscathedral.org for full details or pick up a What’s On Guide from the Cathedral.

F E AT U R E

Get your Christmas treats at Mr Simms

Olde Sweet Shoppe Visiting Mr Simms Sweet Shoppe at No 5 French Row, St Albans is just like travelling back in time to a yesteryear when traditional sweet shops were packed with jars of colourful Bon Bons and more than 500 other varieties of sweets, all designed to delight customers, young and old.

Uniquely located opposite the entrance to the famous tower and just a stones throw from the Cathedral, Mr Simms is filled to overflowing with every conceivable variety of fudge, sweets, lollipops, liquorice, candy sticks and chocolates you could ever imagine possible in a single store.

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Those of you who always remember the ‘Woolies’ Pick ‘N’ Mix counter are in for a special treat at Mr Simms. The store has a large glass counter area packed with all the traditional Pick ‘N’ Mix favourites including Love Hearts and Cola Bottles, while behind the counter, the entire wall is lined with over 250 jars of more traditional sweets ranging from Cherry Chrystals to Barley Twists.

The store also stocks a vast array of packaged sweets including Refreshers, Fry’s Chocolate Cream bars and Fizzwizz, which have been almost impossible to find by consumers at the ‘Corner Shop’ in recent years.

For those of you with diabetic issues, Mr Simms also stocks an extensive range of chocolate bars, confectionary, liquorice, jelly fruits together with a large selection of gluten-free sweets.

Mr Simms has only been opened a short while but has already attracted thousands of loyal customers who return again and again for their particular favourites and fills a consumer need following the recent closure of the Thorntons St Albans branch nearby.

For more information about Mr Simms Olde Sweet Shoppe, 5 French Row, St Albans call 01727 568568

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1812

1826

1874

St Albans Clock Tower

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he site of the Eleanor cross which once stood in St Albans lies opposite Waxhouse Gate. This was one of the entrances to the medieval Abbey. In 1290, the funeral procession of Queen Eleanor, wife of Edward I rested here on its slow journey to Westminster.

Neglected, the cross was pulled down in 1703 to be replaced by the town pump. Later, in 1874 a fountain was put in its place. This is now in Victoria Place, where the gaol used to be.

Behind the cross and built between 1403 and 1412, is the Clock Tower, the only medieval example in the country. The map on the right shows the centre of St Albans around 1700 including the Clock Tower. From the beginning it had a mechanical clock, a great rarity at that time. As the Abbey also had one, this was probably the reason for having the same. Indeed, the Clock Tower itself seems to have been intended as a visible statement of St. Albans’ civic ambitions against the power of the Abbot. It was both a look out as well as a curfew, ringing out the times when people had to be indoors “covering the fire”.

floor were let together until roughly 1900. Progressing onto the second floor, you will discover the clock keeper’s living room, where he and his family would have lived between 1412 and 1866. The third floor boasts the Victorian clock, which was added when the tower was restored in 1866. It was designed by Lord Grimthorpe, who was the leading Victorian authority on clocks – he also designed the mechanism of Big Ben. The fourth floor houses the original bell itself, still in place and weighing one tonne.

From 1808-1814 during the Napoleonic war, it was used by the Admiralty as a semaphore station.

This was operated by a shutter system and could help relay a message to or from Yarmouth in 5 minutes.

By the 1860’s the Tower was in a bad way and was nearly demolished. The restoration in 1864 was supervised

by Sir Gilbert Scott. In 2004, the roof was rebuilt with improved public safety and access. It is planned to re-display the exhibition in the near future.

However, as you start your journey up the 93 steps of the tower’s spiral staircase, you will discover that each of its five floors reveals a snapshot of the tower’s varied historical past.

You can now access the roof of the clock tower, which not only offers beautiful views of the abbey of St Albans and the historical Roman town of Verulamium below, but is also the site of the shutter telegraph. This was used as one of 16 stations linking Whitehall and the North Sea Fleet in Great Yarmouth (within just five minutes) during the Napoleonic Wars.

The shop on the ground floor and the shopkeeper’s lodgings on the first

www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk

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The New Year Sale

our best sale ever!

BIG DISCOUNTS on a range of ex-display bathrooms and showers

Starts Friday 27th December

Greatly reduced prices Wide range of products Ex-displays must be sold www.warebathrooms.co.uk sales@warebathrooms.co.uk

4 Star Street, Ware, Herts SG12 7AA Tel: 01920 468664 or 01920 466664

Open: Mon-Sat from 9am-5pm

Established since 1980

Closed 24, 25, 26, 31 December and 1 January

F E AT U R E

Dream Hanbury Manor Weddings

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Smaller weddings are becoming a more popular option with numbers of 15 to 30 people being a preferable amount of guests for the day.

eople spend too much time worrying about other people that they do not concentrate on what they want from their wedding day. Opting for a small wedding not only saves on your budget but gives you the opportunity to not have to tell people they are not invited without feeling bad. You can dance the night away with friends and family you feel comfortable with rather than spend the day catching up with acquaintances and most importantly you can soak up being a newlywed with your new spouse.

One of the biggest wedding decisions you need to make is picking the venue, so why choose a bigger venue just to accommodate more guests when you can go for the first option you instantly fell in love with.

Hanbury Manor, a Marriott Hotel & Country Club in Ware, Hertfordshire offers Intimate wedding packages with smaller room options including the Drawing Room and Conservatory that can be opened to join into each other if you wish you utilise the two rooms through the day or the period library setting with all options overlooking the 200 acres of stunning parkland.

The hotels Intimate Wedding Packages are licensed for civil ceremonies with a minimum number of 15 people required starting from £75 per person that

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typically includes a three course sit down meal with tea and coffee, half a bottle of house wine, half a bottle of mineral water, hire of banqueting suite, dedicated banqueting manager and personalised menu cards. Bespoke packages are also available on request with options of canapés, sparkling wine and celebration cakes to be included.

For further information on any of our Intimate Wedding Packages at Hanbury Manor please contact one of the dedicated Wedding Organiser’s on: 01920 487 722 Terms & conditions apply. Subject to availability.

Ware, Hertfordshire, SG12 0SD Telephone: 01920 487 722 MarriottHanburyManor.co.uk

F E AT U R E

Christmas Gift Inspiration

F O R T H E W H O L E FA M I LY Christmas is just around the corner and the time has come to think about what surprises we can stow away under the tree for our nearest and dearest. We’ve teamed up with The Galleria outlet shopping centre in Hatfield to put together an inspirational gift guide for the whole family.

Home to over 80 stores, with a combination of some of the best high street names and specialist stores, you’re bound to find perfect gifts for everyone on your list at The Galleria this year.

For Her

For Him

Whether you’re looking for something special for your mum, sister or best friend this Christmas, you can’t go wrong with stylish accessories to brighten up the winter wardrobe, pampering treats or some festive sparkle ready for New Year’s Eve.

Bestselling books are an ideal stocking filler for the man in your life. Why not pick up a gripping read to keep him entertained over the holidays. Or, if he’s the adventurous sort, some new sports equipment or outdoor gear will hit the mark this Christmas.

Joey Handbag, Fiorelli, £45.50, Deluxe Vanilla Gift Set, Body Shop, £25, Silver & Crystal Bracelet, TK Maxx, £49.99, Hugo Boss Jour Pour Femme, The Perfume Shop, £48.50.

Solo a James Bond Novel by William Boyd, Waterstones, £18.99, Striped Belt, £29 GANT, Survivor Rucksack, Regatta, £31.99, Micro Fleece, Regatta, £7.99.

For Children Christmas is a magical time of year for children and they’re usually not shy with gift ideas! If you are in search of inspiration however, traditional toys will be popular with big kids as well as youngsters this year and board games are always a great way to bring the whole family together.

Wooden Toys, TK Maxx, from £3.99, The Demon Dentist by David Walliams, Waterstones, £12.99, Diamond by Jacqueline Wilson, Waterstones, £12.99, Monopoly Empire, Cuthberts Toys, £24.99.

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For The Home A gift for the home is the perfect way to help friends and relatives ‘deck the halls’ with a stylish new look. Or why not ensure Christmas lunch goes without a hitch by treating someone special to some new cookware, tableware or foodie treats.

Glassware, TK Maxx, from £2.99, Cake Stand, ProCook, £18, Gravy Boat, Le Creuset, £15.

thegalleria.co.uk

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What ’s yo ur gaL leria?

Located on the A1(M) between junctions 3 & 4

LO CA L A RTS

FOLLOW YOUR DREAMS BY BANKSY

WOMAN BY DAVID WALKER

Art with Street Art, or Urban Art as it has widely become known, has polarised opinions for decades. Some see it as mindless and wanton vandalism whilst others view it with an air of affectionate reverence. One thing is for sure – Urban art has never been more popular and has transformed how we view what is considered as legitimate art.

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e’re all used to seeing images or language daubed on the side of buildings, bridges and even trains. They often take the form of ‘tags’ denoting an affiliation with a gang or group, to more elaborate and visual formats which convey a clear message. Historically, much of this referenced a territorial advantage (some point to wall murals in Northern Ireland as a perfect example), but in the 1980’s we witnessed a key change in the structure of street art which gave rise to a massive explosion in awareness. This approach to creating work in public places for free public consumption has not always gone down well though with governmental establishments, and the crackdowns on graffiti artists saw many early works painted over

by Council bodies.

How times have changed though – now we hear about Westminster Council actually going out of their way to preserve works from a renowned recluse artist with Perspex coverings! Where once frowned upon, Urban Art is controversially challenging each and every one of us to question the acceptability and credibility of this art form. By the same token, the judicial system is

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STREET ART

being challenged to review how it deals with those who practice street art, where last week Manchester artist Tom Dewhurst avoided jail as the judge commented “he could be the next Banksy”.

Urban art has become a multimillion pound interest, making household names out of many including Banksy, Stik, Inkie and Space Invader to name but a few. Whether they sought the attention, accolade or wealth that ensued, it is clear that many who have followed have understood the significant opportunity their forbearers have presented. Banksy’s recent New York residency sa w him now famously sell his works for $60 from a pop-up stall in Central Park (with some works estimated to be worth around $140,000).

Probably one of the most significant moments in the legitimising of street art has to be the recent event at the House of Commons. Entitled ‘Smile Britannia’ this was the first charity street art auction to take place in the venerable home of politics. In a twist of irony, what was once highly frowned upon has now become accepted by those who worked so hard to destroy it!

LO CA L A RTS

Artists to look out for

BOOOOM BY LHOUETTE

Lhouette Born in Luton, Lhuoette is an exciting local talent. Having undertaken a five year career in the Navy, Lhouette returned to his artistic roots.

He describes his work as ‘impressions of pop culture and fashion’.

Leveraging high impact colour alongside crisp imagery, he typically paints on plyboard but has recently been experimenting on large packaging pallets.

WELL, YOU KNOW, LIKE, I DON’T REALLY GIVE A F BY RICH SIMMONS

Rich Simmons A gifted self-taught artist, Simmons discovered his talent when practicing art as a form of therapy to aid relaxation.

Using aerosol sprays and individually hand cut stencils (often with between 200-500 elements) Simmons skill was identified by The Princess Trust where he has become an Ambassador helping other vulnerable individuals through his project ‘Art is the Cure’. Snapped up by Bond Street gallery Opera, Simmons has been widely tipped for further success. Having held his first solo exhibition at Gallery Rouge, Simmons is preparing for a followup event at the gallery in 2014.

Ben Riley Born and raised in Staffordshire, Riley became a professional artist in 2002, and has never looked back.

Working with vinyl records, he first destroys them to render them record fragments. He then reconstructs them in the visual of iconic music stars both past and present. Every element of the artwork is made from records as he uses ground-down record dust for the finer details. No artificial pigment is therefore used in his work. With a forthcoming exhibition in January 2014 at Gallery Rouge in St Albans, the New Year promises to be pivotal in his development.

PAPER KISSES BY BEN RILEY

27 Chequer St, St Albans, AL1 3YJ 01727 860401 stalbans@galleryrouge.co.uk

78 High Street, Harpenden, AL5 2SP 01582 760332 harpenden@galleryrouge.co.uk DECEMBER2013 19

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The Ultimate Luxury Chocolate Gift for Christmas The Chocolate was born with a vision for the perfect synergy. A fusion of British Artisan and Italian Passion.

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hey use award winning chocolate – Toscano Black, Amedei, Armand de Brignac champagne(Ace of Spades) voted No.1 Champagne in the world and create bespoke, handmade, champagne truffles. They have them enrobed, by hand, in edible pure 24 carat gold flakes and present them in contemporary, chic, Swarovski adorned boxes. “Thus providing the most luxurious chocolate experience in the World”.

What is it ?

In its simplest form we are talking about an amazing ‘experience’. Handmade truffles using an award winning, Italian chocolate, filled with champagne, flaked with edible, pure 24-carat gold all enclosed within bespoke handcrafted boxes encrusted with Swarovski Crystals inside and out.

As all Swarovski are applied by hand no two boxes will ever be the same. The chocolate itself is 63% Toscano Black sourced from a tiny artisan chocolate maker based just outside historic Pisa. The cocoa beans are refined using a traditional granite stone mill and the result has been judged by the Academy of Chocolate as officially the best in the world. What experts call the ganache - basically the mixture of cocoa, cream and a variety of other ingredients to form what consumers think of as, well, the chocolate – that forms ‘the Chocolate’ is a closely guarded secret but the Chocolate are happy to confirm that there are several glasses of champagne added to the normal recipe. “As we make everything freshly to order we can, of course, produce ‘the Chocolate’ without alcohol if required.”

You Eat the Gold?

It’s the world’s most expensive foodstuff and has been eaten for millennia.

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Although the Ancient Egyptians believed it gave them immortality no such claims are made for ‘the Chocolate.’ (yet).

However other authorities do claim that gold has many attributes when eaten, including generating a higher IQ, managing rheumatoid arthritis, developing mystic power and contributing to a long and healthy life.

More seriously it is authorised for use in food products in both Europe and the USA. High quality chocolate also has its enthusiasts. They claim that chocolate with over 60% cocoa content (‘the Chocolate’ has 63%) reduces blood pressure, decreases the chance of both diabetes and heart attack, improves the memory and even eases a persistent cough amongst a plethora of other attributes. Be that as it may the fact remains that ‘the Chocolate’ has a fantastic taste that will exceed the expectations of the wildest choccie enthusiast. And the memory of the experience will last and last.

The Products Available online at www.the-chocolate.com and exclusively at Harrods, the large Boxes contain 15 chocolates with a minimum weight of 200 grammes. Large boxes start from £70 including postage and packing.

Delivery of this unique hand-made product is within five days or can be expressed for specific delivery date.

Available online and exclusively at Harrods For more information on the Chocolate visit www.the-chocolate.com

59 High Street Harpenden Hertfordshire AL5 2SL Tel 01582 256008

FFEEAT ATU URREE

Too much Time on your hands?

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nce upon a time a man would own one watch. It would be cared for, maintained and possibly only worn on special occasions rather than every day – especially if the owner worked in manual labour. I say ‘own’ rather than buy because this watch may have been passed down from father to son or bought as a gift for a significant birthday. Ladies often went without a watch altogether and if they wore one, the same rules applied as for men.

Back then, watches were an important and relatively expensive purchase and the idea of a collection or ‘wardrobe’ of watches would have been out of the question.

Things have changed and, despite the fact that the correct time is displayed all around us on computer monitors, mobile phones and even microwave ovens, watch ownership continues to rise. Whether they are Swatches or the finest haute – horology

DEEC C EEM MBBEERR2 021031 3 23 26 D

more of us have an increasing number of watches. Not that these are curated collections, carefully built up after careful consideration of each purchase – rather we accumulate watches, as gifts, pieces bought in our youth that we would never wear now, family bequests as well as current favourites. Our tastes evolve over time and the watches that fall out of favour end up at the back of the drawer gathering dust.

What better way to offset the cost of the festive season than by having a little clear-out? While a drawer full of cheap and cheerful quartz may not pay off the bills – you never know what you might find.

That watch you inherited but never wear may be a vintage classic. You might find that you only wear white metal now, leaving a collection of gold or gold-plated pieces bereft and ignored. What may be a dated and ugly watch to you may be a retro

gem to a collector – or maybe not.

Fellows Auctioneers handle more watches per year than any other UK auction house and offer watches for sale at a wide range of values. Valuations for auction are free and can be requested through the Fellows website very easily. With over 35 watch and watch-related auctions per year you never have long to wait for your items to sell. The auction process is an increasingly popular way to sell watches and jewellery. The worldwide exposure of the sales through the development of online bidding means that your goods achieve their true market value while the auction charges are often much lower than the margin a dealer or retail shop would hope to make.

If you think you might have some unloved watches in the back of a drawer or the bottom of a jewellery box, get in touch with Fellows. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will let you know whether it would be suitable for auction and how much you might expect to make.

For more information please visit www.fellows.co.uk

An auction of Vintage & Modern Wrist Watches Monday 20th January at 11am A gentleman’s Breitling for Bentley Flying B wrist watch.

Estimate £1,500 – £2,000 A gentleman’s Hublot Big Bang wrist watch.

Estimate £3,500 – £4,500 A gentleman’s Graham Chronofighter wrist watch.

Estimate £2,000 – £3,000

www.fellows.co.uk Fellows Auctioneers | 19 Augusta Street | Birmingham B18 6JA | 0121 212 2131 London Office (By Appointment) | 2nd Floor |3 Queen Street | London W1J 5PA | 020 7127 4198

F E AT U R E

THE DEER OF

HATFIELD HOUSE

Hatfield House forms the centre piece of the largest private estate in Hertfordshire, with the woodlands covering an extensive spread across the county. Thus they offer a rich diversity of habitat and species. The woodland types range from the traditional coppice with standards, woodland and include commercial conifer broadleaved mixtures, continuous cover systems and minimum intervention woodlands.

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F E AT U R E

All the estate’s woodlands are full working Forestry Stewardship Council certified. This identifies timber grown in the UK from well managed and sustainable woodlands.

The woodlands offer a complete range of multi-purpose benefits from recreation and amenity to conservation and timber production.

Environmental matters are at the forefront of all our woodland work. Such a wide range of diverse habitats provide sanctuary to a rich diversity of wildlife. Hatfield House Woodlands not only enhance biodiversity and provide sustainable timber resources for the estate but they also offer a range of other benefits: Permissive and public access recreation opportunities Reduction of carbon emissions by acting as a carbon “sink” Enhance most of the landscape Assist in improving physical and mental well being DEER PARK There have been deer parks at Hatfield House since the 13th century when the park was under the control of the Bishops of Ely. The two main deer parks were known as Innyings Park and Middle Park.

A survey taken while Princess Elizabeth was living in the Old Palace in 1551 shows a total of 145 deer. These were probably fallow deer. When Robert Cecil was building Hatfield House in 1610 he purchased fourteen red deer from Lincolnshire and from then on the parks held both fallow and red deer.

In medieval times deer parks were used mainly as venison farms and for hunting. By 1624 the number of deer had risen at Hatfield to 626 animals.

Fallow deer are known as bucks and does, whilst red deer are stags and hinds.

Sadly, due to necessity, most of the herd was culled during the First World War. However, the family were keen to see deer back again at Hatfield and in the mid 1990’s a new deer park was created on the South Front. The first consignment of deer arrived in January 1997 from Buxted Park in Sussex, followed by others from Surrey, Cumbria and Norfolk. Today the deer herd averages around 160 in number.

All the deer are of a variety known as menil fallow. This strain has been used in deer parks for centuries due to their beautiful light colouration. By selecting animals from all over England we were able to provide a diverse gene pool for the future.

The deer provide a beautiful complement to Hatfield House and can be viewed from the South Front viewing gallery.

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F E AT U R E

Love is in the air on the Brocket Hall estate This Valentine’s Day the luxury Brocket Hall estate is embracing good, old-fashioned romance by opening the doors of its opulent 18th Century manor to lovebirds looking to escape the hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in the amorous day.

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s an estate, Brocket Hall has a rich and varied history that has seen its fair share of love and romance, dating back to the 18th Century. Its most notable love story is that of Lady Caroline Lamb, the wife of the second Lord Melbourne who owned the estate in the 1800s, and her romantic liaisons with the famous poet Lord Byron. Their whirlwind was a hot topic within society at the time and was described by Lady Caroline as ‘mad, bad and

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dangerous to know’. As well as this, the estate has been the residence of two former Prime Ministers and a country retreat for Queen Victoria.

Today Brocket Hall specialises in love and romance, by hosting standout weddings across its three luxury venues.

Set in 543 acres of Hertfordshire countryside, Brocket Hall is usually reserved for those hosting an event in the hall. However, on Saturday

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15th February loved-up couples can spend the night in the 30-bedroom stately home for an evening of Champagne, fine food and plenty of romance. Arriving at 4pm, guests will be greeted by the team of butlers with canapés and a glass of fizz, before they are escorted to their ensuite love-nest. Dinner will be served in the grand ballroom, which was used as the Netherfield ballroom in the BBC version of Pride and Prejudice, to the serenading sounds of a live pianist. Couples will dine on a four-course seasonal tasting menu, lovingly prepared by Marcus McGuinness, who is the head chef at the estate’s award-winning restaurant, Auberge du Lac, and culinary consultant, two Michelinstarred chef Anthony Demetre.

On Sunday 16th infatuated partners can visit the magnificent stately home for a Valentine’s afternoon tea. Served in the ballroom, in traditional butler style, couples can enjoy exquisite hand-baked pastries and dainty cakes, whilst taking in the majestic surroundings. To mark the special occasion, Champagne will be served throughout the afternoon and each lady will receive a symbolic, single red rose.

For food lovers, Auberge du Lac will be serving a six-course tasting menu on both Friday 14th and Saturday 15th February. The three AA rosette restaurant is the perfect location to spend the most romantic weekend of the year, with its idyllic, intimate setting overlooking the Broadwater Lake which runs through the estate. Marcus and Anthony will work together to create the fine-dining menu, which will focus on seasonal produce and Marcus’s passion for foraging, particularly within the grounds of the hall.

To make this day of romance extra special, starry-eyed guests can combine their gourmet dinner with an overnight stay in the estate’s Melbourne Lodge. This 16-bedroom Georgian coach house conversion is positioned in a tranquil setting, overlooking the estate, its two championship golf courses and Brocket Hall itself.

This Auberge Valentines Experience package includes Champagne, flowers and chocolate laid out in the bedroom, a six-course tasting menu at Auberge du Lac, overnight accommodation on Friday 14th February and breakfast the following morning in the Watershyppes Restaurant, located in Brocket Hall Golf Club.

How to book To spend a romantic night at Brocket Hall on Saturday 15th February for £450 per couple, or enjoy a Valentines Afternoon Tea on Sunday 16th February for £45 per person, please call the events team on 01707 368 700 or email events@brocket-hall.co.uk.

A six-course tasting menu at Auberge du Lac on Friday 14th and Saturday 15th costs £250 per couple, £345 to include wine and £390 with champagne. To book please call the Auberge reception on 01707 368 888 or email auberge@brocket-hall.co.uk.

The Auberge Valentine’s Experience is £450 per couple and includes overnight accommodation in the Melbourne Lodge.

To make a reservation please call the Auberge reception on 01707 368 700 or email info@brocket-hall.co.uk.

DECEMBER2013 27

F E AT U R E

J

TOMOKA SPIRITS BOUTIQUE

ust before Christmas a little boutique store opened up in Christopher Place in St. Albans. A little like a sweet shop for adults, Tomoka Spirits Boutique specialises in fine spirits and champagne. The owners of the shop, Jass, Roberto and Tim, invited us down to sample their wares and find out just what fine spirits and champagne are all about.

As you step into the shop, you are greeted by row and after row of spirits and champagnes, ranging from some old favourites to unusual cask matured whiskies, independent producer champagnes and vintage rums from the Caribbean. Jass observes that, just as there has been a growing interest in the provenance of food, a similar phenomenon has been happening in the drinks world. “Our customers are keen to know what makes this whisky or that champagne unique and how that translates into the taste; there is a heritage and a story behind each product that is really engaging” he tells me. Whether it’s the art of blending the still wines that become champagne passed down through the family for 175 years or a small Scottish distillery experimenting with different casks sourced from all over the world to produce different flavours in their whisky, behind all the products are people committed to producing quality drinks and doing it their own way.

At the moment, there is something of a gin renaissance happening in the UK, with a new distillery popping up almost every week it seems.

Roberto points to a number of more unusual bottles, including a Scottish gin distilled in Islay using herbs and spices which grow naturally on the island and another distilled in Herefordshire using oranges from Seville. Provenance and heritage are key factors in gins he says, as each distillery has a different approach. All of this of course is good news for those partial to a G&T, with a myriad of different styles available.

28 DECEMBER2013

The real test always come down to taste of course and the team at Tomoka has been holding some very interesting consumer tastings of late. “It’s always a treat to bring the people who make the products down so they can tell their own story to our customers; the passion for the products and the insights that you get into how and why they make them in the way they do are really compelling” Tim says. Since December, they have held champagne and whisky tastings and have plans for rum and gin in the near future. The prospect of tasting vintage rum from Barbados with salted caramel ice cream and matching peated islay whisky with cheese sounds very appealing indeed!

As well as tastings with the producers, which are held at local bars or restaurants in and around St Albans, the shop has a selection of small miscellaneous bottles of which any apothecary would be proud. The staff keep an eclectic selection of samples for customers to try, ranging from a luxurious coffee infused oak aged tequila to single malt whiskies from Japan. Although the shop is named after the ship owned by a prolific bootlegger during the prohibition era, they are happy to confirm that none of the spirits has been produced in bathtubs (even the suspiciously named bottle of Bathtub Gin), as they were in 1920s America!

For more information about the shop and their tastings, you can ring them on 01727 894869, email them at billmccoy@tomokaspiritsboutique.co.uk or pop into the shop in Christopher Place in St. Albans (where of course you can take the opportunity to sample a few products!).

F E AT U R E

CHAMPAGNE AT THE TOUCH OF A BUTTON The World’s first Moët & Chandon Mini bottle vending machine at the iconic Selfridges, Oxford Street.

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rapped in glistening gold and coated in Swarovski crystals, this is not your ordinary vending machine.

Holding 350 200ml bottles of Moët & Chandon, it makes an elegant stocking filler this Christmas.

Gone are the days of picking and dropping a soda can into the bucket, press the red Moët seal and watch a gold arm carefully select your bottle from its seat, and deliver it into a glowing cylindrical window to reveal your own, adorable mini Moët.

These gorgeous crystallised bottles are perfect, decadent stocking fillers, and are available in the services hub on the fourth floor for £17.99, exclusively in the luxury store Selfridges.

The vending machine is so flash that it doesn’t accept coins. Instead shoppers have to pre-pay for the champagne at a special counter in the heart of the Oxford Street store’s ‘Christmas Emporium’.

Buyers will need to bring their own glasses if they want to enjoy their tasty purchase on the go. Champagne at the press of a button!

Dawn Davies, wine and spirits buyer at Selfridges, said: ‘Working with Moët & Chandon to unveil the world’s first champagne vending machine has been an exciting collaboration for Selfridges. ‘The timing couldn’t be more perfect - they make a lovely little stocking filler. ‘The installation forms part of our bespoke, personalised gifting taking place throughout the store. ‘This year, Selfridges have taken Christmas to a 30 DECEMBER2013

whole new level, transforming the entire fourth floor into a one-stop destination for gifting. ‘The inclusion of the world’s first Moët vending machine makes a decadent addition to our Christmas Emporium.’

The Moët and Chandon dispenser is the first champagne vending machine in the world, and the latest in a line of luxury vending machines to be unveiled. Westfield Shopping Centre in London has a machine that dispenses gold bars while its LA malls are stocked with dispensers selling caviar, truffles and snails.

So for a stylish stocking filler, head to Selfridges Oxford Street, for champagne at the press of a button!

Selfridges, 400 Oxford Street, London, W1A 1AB www.selfridges.com About Selfridges Founded by American entrepreneur Harry Gordon Selfridge in 1909, it was and is still widely regarded as the first and best example of a modern department store. Selfridges has become a unique UK destination for fashion, luxury and retail theatre known for its world-class yet egalitarian customer approach.

In June 2010 Selfridges was named Best Department Store in the World by the IGDS (Intercontinental Group of Department Stores). The title, which Selfridges held until June 2012, is the industry’s highest accolade.

Selfridges won the title again in June 2012, for an unprecedented two times consecutively. The title applies until June 2014.

YOUR TELEVISION IS A CREDIT TO YOU Receive up to £1,300 for your existing television when you upgrade to BeoVision 11*

Enjoy television like never before with the phenomenal viewing experience of the BeoVision 11 Smart TV. Even better, upgrade before 16th February and we will give you a very attractive part-exchange valuation on your current television, no matter the brand or model.

Purchase BeoVision 11-40 and receive £850 in part-exchange for your existing television or £1,300 when you buy BeoVision 11-46 or BeoVision 11-55. 0% interest-free credit is also available to make upgrading even more affordable**.

Please contact us to see how BeoVision 11 can change the way you view television forever.

*Terms and conditions apply. Offer ends 16/02/14. **Subject to status. Please ask in-store for full details.

Bang & Olufsen of Winchmore Hill 727 Green Lanes London N21 3RX Tel: 0208 360 5088 Email: winchmorehill@bang-olufsen.co.uk Website: www.bang-olufsen.com/winchmorehill

F E AT U R E

A SLICE OF HERTFORDSHIRE HISTORY

Gorgeous George Street

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The historic beauty of George Street in St Albans makes it one my favourite streets! It has been in existence since well before the available records.

ecords go back to around 1250, and state that at that time it was little more than a lane leading to the churches of St. Andrew and Abbey Church. It belonged to a convent known as the sisters of St. Mary of Sopwell; they were protected by the Abbott. It was known as Church Street up until sometime in the early 15th century, that’s when a license was granted to build a tavern which was named `George upon the Hupe`. The name comes from the canonisation of a 3rd century Christian Roman soldier of the same name; St. George became the patron saint of England in 1348 under King Edward III. George Street is therefore named after the George Inn coaching house, and not the other way round. The street has a long and illustrious connection to the crown, and today the Crown Estate still hold the freehold of many properties on the street. The George Inn is the oldest on the street and was in the possession of the High Lord Admiral John Duke in 1446, as the records state. In 1480 it changed hands and the landlord was Thomas Hethness, he wanted to attract a higher class of traveller, so he applied to the Abbott and was granted a license to convert part of the Inn into a private Chapel.

In 1666 just after the Great Fire of London, Henry Gladman was the licensee, due to a shortage of coins in the realm caused by the fire; he issued a token bearing the symbol of St George and the Dragon. Other local traders followed suit and the various tokens could be redeemed in any shop or Inn, the value of each one ranged from a halfpenny to tuppence. Other Inns followed as time went by and St. Albans became an important coach stop, The George was in time accompanied by The Valiant Trooper, The White Horse, The Peacock, The Tabard Inn, The White Bear Inn and The Corner Hall. All these are sadly gone now, only part of the old Swan Tavern remains in the form of the present Tudor Tavern.

The Swan was built around 1440 and formed part of the Nunnery of Sopwell, no doubt to subsidise the income of the nuns and the Abbott. Over the next 200 years the buildings along George Street changed in appearance, both 32 DECEMBER2013

inside and out. The nuns acquired a few luxuries from the continued income of the tavern, fire heaths were built to provide warmth for them in their cells.

The windows were added to the frontage as lead lighting. The Swan changed its name in the 1660s to The Kings Head; again the royal connection came into it.

In 1649 King Charles I was executed for treason by Parliament under Oliver Cromwell, he proceeded to lead England as a commonwealth until his death in 1658. Richard Cromwell took over as High Lord Protector and he became even more unpopular. Soon the people demanded the return of the Monarchy, and so in 1660 Charles II was restored to the throne. In celebration the Swan became The Kings Head. The Swan became two properties around 1655, these were known as `Messuages` which consisted of a tenanted property which included out buildings with a yard or court. By 1785 The Kings Head was gone and had been converted into small shop units, with living accommodation above.

The George which formed part of the old Sawn building was still a thriving coaching Inn. The old Swan buildings formed the senior part of George Street’s shops; it has housed an array of businesses from that time until 1963.

These included an oil merchant, a candle maker and a chandler.

In early 1900 an antique dealer took it over and it became known as Mayles Corner, after the owner and his wife. The council in its infinite wisdom finally saw the light in 1963; they bought the building and restored it to its former glory as a Tudor style historic listed building. The Tudor Tavern was born out of it. Today The George Inn and The Tudor Tavern, along with the other modern day businesses in George Street reflect an age long gone, but not forgotten.

So next time you’re in the city, or just wandering around the streets, take a stroll down George Street and see the preserved glory that makes St. Albans such a beautiful place. I get an indescribable special feeling when I’m there so why don’t you pop down to George Street this month and experience Christmas shopping in style and beauty.

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F E AT U R E

The Christmas Forest This year, make your Christmas tree count more than usual

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he Christmas Forest has been selling Christmas trees in London since 1998, and is London’s largest independent Christmas treetailer, operating from eight sites in London over Christmas. Their trees come in many different varieties and are all premium grade, meaning they last beautifully throughout the Christmas season.

They offer a wide range of varieties including the ever popular Nordmann non-drop fir with its soft luxuriant foliage, the heady aromatic Fraser fir, the classic traditional spruce as well as re-plantable living trees. All the trees are open and clearly displayed so you can find the shape of tree to suit your room.

The Christmas Forest brings the magic of visiting a country farm to the city and once you’ve chosen the right tree you can add a few more homely festive touches by shopping for wreaths, holly, mistletoe and beautiful wreaths for your door.You can also now buy online and have the tree delivered to your door (London only) and installation.

Since 2006, for every tree bought, The Christmas Forest has donated a tree to be planted in Africa through Tree Aid. So far, they have planted 105,000 trees to date. Trees provide a long-term, practical solution to poverty and environmental destruction.

The support Tree Aid has received from

34 DECEMBER2013

the Christmas Forest over the last seven years has been a lifeline for African families using trees to battle poverty and climate change.

Trees mean life for many rural African families.

Living with the effects of extreme poverty made worse by climate change, villagers are learning how to raise and care for trees thanks to these campaigns. Trees are not only good for the environment but also essential for the people.

Trees often survive when other crops fail so families can rely on a sustainable, nutritious variety of foods including fruit, nuts and even leaves and flowers. Trees give shade and shelter, food for animals, natural medicines, tools and fuel. www.treeaid.org.uk Every tree planted through the Christmas Forest partnership is a gift for an African family this Christmas, and for generations to come.

Christmas Forest shops are based in Clapham, Richmond, Dulwich, Stoke Newington, Islington, Kensal Green, Ealing and Putney. Open all December 8am-10pm. Monday to Sunday.

Telephone now on 01865 427 067 Prices start at £18. www.christmasforest.co.uk

Our winter sale is now on with up to 50% off Fishpools has grown over the last 114 years and today we are the largest quality furniture store in the south east. Our 62,000 square feet of showrooms feature over 200 room sets from classic to contemporary, minimal to vintage and rustic to romantic all designed to help you make your home unique.

There are over 200 sofa collections, 150 dining ranges, 100's of beds, 75 bedroom ranges, and a large carpets & rugs department. Choose from a wide range of linens, soft furnishings, pictures, mirrors, lighting, cookware and gifts from our Home Accessories departments.

If it’s big name brands you’re after, we stock Stressless, Natuzzi, Collins & Hayes, Calligaris, Cattelan Italia, Duresta, G Plan, Ercol, Nolte, Vi Spring, Tempur, Brintons, Crucial Trading, Harlequin, Romo, & many more.

As a family-run retailer our commitment to great service begins as soon as you enter the store to be greeted by our well trained, knowledgeable people, who will assist you on all aspects of your purchase until it is safely delivered to your home. So pop in, we have ample customer parking, an in-store coffee shop and we look forward to making your acquaintance.

Set the benchmark for fine dining with our Hayden Boat Shaped collection Just one of 150 dining styles in our range Visit our website to see all our ranges

High Street Waltham Cross . 01992 63 64 65 . www.fishpools.co.uk

F E AT U R E

Discover the magic ...of London’s most prestigious department stores!

Gorgeous gifts, Decorative displays, Eyecatching windows and Santa Grottos HARRODS, KNIGHTSBRIDGE One of London’s ultimate Christmas shopping destinations, The Harrods Christmas World offers customers all of the seasonal sparkle they need, with spectacular decorations, stocking fillers, cards, gift wrap and more. The 2,000 sq ft department features more than 2,000 different products to offer everything you need to create the perfect Christmas, with prices ranging from £2.95 to £3,999, including luxurious Harrods Christmas crackers, festive Christmas trees, candles and wreaths. It is also home to the 2013 annual Harrods Christmas bear, Sebastian, and even a 6ft Father Christmas. This year the Christmas World presents New York designer Eliot Raffit’s Vintage Glamour collection, offering exquisitely made decorations. The Harrods Christmas World is now open on the Third Floor.

Continuing the shopping into the New Year, Harrods will launch its world-famous Winter Sale on Boxing Day. For more information visit www.harrods.com.

Address: 87-135 Brompton Road, SW3 1RT. Telephone: 020 7730 1234

FORTNUM & MASON, PICCADILLY

SELFRIDGE & CO, OXFORD STREET

HARVEY NICHOLS, KNIGHTSBRIDGE

Wreaths and Baubles, Angels, Fairies, Lights and all you need for a joyous Christmas. Their First Floor Christmas Hall replaces the hard work of Christmas with wonder and delight.

It’s the place to anticipate the day with tastings of puddings and mince pies and mulled wine..

Go along to the daily demonstrations by their experts, from everything from decorating the tree to transforming a parcel into a thing of beauty.

Christmas is fun at Fortnum’s, so visit their Classic Christmas Hall. A sense of the drama attends the arrival of each Fortnum’s hamper.

What thrills await within? The breath is held.

The curtain opens. The show begins. It never disappoints. Fortnum and Mason offer you all the ingredients of an unforgettable Christmas.

It’s shopping, but not as you know it. With worldclass dining, art installations and the world’s largest shoe department, Selfridges London offers an extraordinary experience. With the launch of our Christmas Emporium and the One & Only Gift Shop, Selfridges London is the ultimate destination for ticking off your Christmas shopping list. Father Christmas will be taking time out of his busy schedule to visit us. If you spot him and his elves roaming around the store, make sure to say hello. From roller-skating favour fairies to musical buskers and the Giffords Circus, they have got a host of extraordinary acts to keep you entertained during the festive period. Let the experts wrap your gifts with their bespoke gift wrapping service. Choose from a range of sizes and finishes, including luxury gift boxes for the ultimate finishing touch. The Christmas Emporium on 4.

For more information visit www.selfridges.com Address: 400 Oxford Street, W1U 1AT. Telephone: 0800 123 400

Ladies and Gentleman, Harvey Nichols Christmas Hampers are now available. The quintessential collection offers the most discerning festive selection of Harvey Nichols fine food, wine, Champagne, Port & Kitchenware. There are a variety to choose from to suit and meet your lavish tastes ranging from £30 - £2,500. They love what they do.

Every day they get to work with Artisans who live and breathe their chosen craft, whether it be a fruity olive oil or a blackcurrant and liquorice sweet, all for the simple pleasure of sharing their discovery with each and every one of you. This is what makes them smile and has inspired them to bring you their most desirable collection of Christmas hampers to date.

There are a total of eight floors of elegant fashion, luxury beauty and lifestyle collections with the Fifth Floor dedicated to upmarket Food and Restaurants.

For more information visit www.harveynichols.com.

Address: 109-125 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7RJ. Phone: 020 7235 5000

For more information visit www.fortnumandmason.com.

Address: 181 Piccadilly W1 Telephone: 020 7734 8040 36 DECEMBER2013

F E AT U R E

HAMLEYS, REGENTS STREET

JOHN LEWIS, OXFORD STREET

The finest Children’s Toy Store in the World, Hamleys can boast an astonishing array of more than 40,000 toys and games over its seven floors. Window displays capture the imaginations of children young and old. Join in the Christmas magic at Hamleys this December by having Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch or Tea with Father Christmas! Father Christmas’ Elves will welcome guests, making them feel extra special and entertaining them throughout. There will be scrumptious food and Christmas activities to enjoy. Each little guest will have an individual chat with Father Christmas, hearing tales of Lapland and magical stories of Christmas. Then, when it’s time for Father Christmas to leave, his special guests will receive a small gift to take home. Until Saturday 24th December. Come and watch it snow everyday throughout December at Hamleys Regent Street.

This year their Christmas windows have been designed with a twist. As you’d expect, there are plenty of products on display but they’re presented to you in a slightly unusual way. You’ll see reindeer sculpted from Dyson vacuum cleaners, penguins fashioned from kettles, and a turkey made from towels amongst others. The windows are truly creative and sure to capture your imagination. Go and take a look! Every year, their Seasonal buying team sources an array of stunning and sparkling Christmas decorations, that fall into different themes, so you can pick your favourite look to suit your home. Brimming with festive goodies, sweet flavours and savoury tastes, their hampers are ideal to share with friends and family, or really spoil your loved ones with their luxury hamper range.

For more information visit www.hamleys.co.uk.

Address: 188-196 Regent Street W1B 5BT. Telephone: 020 7494 2000

For more information visit www.johnlewis.com.

Address: Oxford Street, London W1A 1EX. Telephone: 020 7629 7711

DEBENHAMS, OXFORD STREET The new iconic store, with 7 new floors, their biggest ever Beauty Hall, and their New Destination Shoe Hall. The store presents FABULOUS FORTNIGHT – Monday 2nd December – Sunday 15th December….

Celebrate the new iconic store with special guests, performances and fashion shows. Coming up on Thursday 12th December, a Gorgeous Lingerie evening with designer Q&A’s, exclusive competitions, expert advice and more! Friday 13th December, Lucky for some! Pick up a gift in their fabulous Christmas Spectacular and Saturday 14th December, a Family Fun Day with children’s characters, entertainers, competitions and more on floor 5. And finally, Sunday 15th December, their Fabulous Fortnight Finale ...all will be revealed!

For more information visit www.debenhams.com.

Address: 334-348 Oxford Street, London, W1C 1JG

FENWICK BOND STREET

PETER JONES, SLOANE SQUARE

LIBERTY, MAYFAIR

Department store Fenwick has launched their ‘Enchanted Christmas’ theme with help from Elena from the English National Ballet, who performs as Clara the Nutcracker Doll in their Bond Street windows, which were decorated as an enchanted forest. For the ultimate festive adornments, discover the dazzling Christmas Shop on the elegant Designer floor at Fenwick. A luxurious emporium of beautiful baubles, garlands, crackers and table decorations in a sumptuous theme of gold, bronze, silver and red, magnificently displayed on 8-foot trees within the elegant new surroundings of exclusive designer fashion on the second floor. Visit Children’s World on the lower ground floor, and junior jungle for all things fashionable and fun. As well as being an exceptional fashion destination, Fenwick Bond Street is also the perfect place to dine in style. For a reviving coffee, light snack or sumptuous meal, the fare is always fresh and flavourful.

Come and meet Santa, on the 3rd floor of the prestigious store in Sloane Square, Chelsea. He’ll be visiting on the following dates:- Saturday 7th December, 1pm - 5.30pm, - Thursday 12th December, 2.30pm - 5.30pm, - Saturday 14th December, 1pm - 5.30pm, - Wednesday 18th December, 2.30pm - 5.30pm, Friday 20th December, 1pm - 4pm, and Monday 23rd December, 2.30pm - 5.30pm. Every Saturday and Sunday in December, 12 noon - 4pm, a Brass band will be playing on the Second floor. They will also be welcoming several school choirs as they bring festive tunes to the shop floor in the run-up to Christmas.

Looking for a unique gift? The Dartington team will be engraving any Dartington product purchased in store on the days of Sunday 8th December: 11am 5pm & Saturday 21st December: 11am - 5pm

This festive season, Liberty has teamed up with The Royal Shakespeare Company’s production of Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical for a unique collaboration. The production’s Olivier and Tony award-winning set designer, Rob Howell, has created a spectacular installation which can be found suspended above four floors of the Central Atrium in our Regent Street store. In-keeping with the style and themes of the award-winning musical, the installation features a giant satchel with brightly coloured lettered tiles exploding from within. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to play the fun word search using the Scrabble tile-like letters for the chance to win tickets to see the show! Get ready for a cracking Christmas with their selection of beautiful Christmas decorations in all shapes and sizes to transform every room of the house. Don’t forget to stock up on delicious treats from their collection of traditional Christmas food, too.

For more information visit www.fenwick.com Address: 63 New Bond Street, London W1A 3BS. Telephone: 020 7629 9161

For more information visit www.peterjones.co.uk.

Address: Sloane Square, London SW1 8EL. Telephone: 020 7730 3434

For more information visit www.liberty.co.uk Address: Great Marlborough Street, London W1B 5AH.Telephone: 020 7734 1234 DECEMBER2013 37

F E AT U R E

THE WORLD’S LARGEST SNOW GLOBE DAZZLES LONDON’S COVENT GARDEN PIAZZA

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K’s master LEGO artist Duncan Titmarsh, credited for building the world’s tallest LEGO Christmas tree and the massive LEGO advent calendar that awed everybody last year, has come up with the world’s largest LEGO snow globe in London this year just before the festive season kicks-off.

The giant-sized snow globe features LEGO sculptures of 14 iconic London buildings, fitted with LED lights includes Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, Big Ben, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, Covent Garden Market Building.

The tallest building in the LEGO Snow Globe is The Shard at two metres.

Standing over three metres tall, it took six people 75 days, and 120,000 LEGO bricks to build the Snow Globe and will be on display throughout the Christmas period at Covent Garden. The miniature London skyline is encased inside an inflatable plastic dome spangled with glittering fake snow.

Covent Garden is London’s most magical destination this Christmas. From the shimmering 60ft tree and 15ft topiary reindeer watching over the festivities, to the larger-than-life baubles and thousands of twinkling pea lights adorning the Market Building and side streets, the world famous Piazza will be brimming with festive cheer to mark the holiday season.

A firm family favourite, live reindeer petting will return to the West Piazza every Saturday until 21st December from 12-4pm, providing the chance to hand feed Santa’s helpers for the perfect Christmas photo moment.

Christmas Gift Ideas There are many upmarket stores to choose from at Covent Garden, with an array of luxury Christmas Gifts L uxury Beauty: Dior, Chanel, Aesop, Penhaligon’s and Jo Malone D esigner gifts for her: Opening Ceremony, Lulu Guinness, Links of London, Kurt Geiger, Sandro B espoke gifts for him: Burberry Brit, Oliver Sweeney, Casio D elightful gifts for children: Benjamin Pollocks Toy Shop, Moomins H ealthy gifts: Reebok, Lulu Lemon O ne off gifts: Apple Market For more information, please visit www.coventgardenlondonuk.com

38 DECEMBER2013

A garden room for all seasons...

Whatever your dream, the experienced designers at Crown Pavilions can create the ultimate outdoor room - from beautiful gazebos to stunning pool rooms, gyms or garden studios

SPECIALISING IN BESPOKE GARDEN ROOMS BESPOKE TIMBER GARAGES BESPOKE TIMBER STABLES LANDSCAPING LIGHTING Tel 01491 612 820 Email enquiries@crownpavilions.com www.crownpavilions.com

www.crownpavilions.com 01491 612820

F E AT U R E

SKATE AT SOMERSET HOUSE CANARY WHARF

LONDON EYE ICE RINK

Get your skates on... this winter A guide to London’s coolest ice rinks Ice Skating at Westfield London From 21st November 2013 - 5th January 2014 This Christmas, Westfield London’s central atrium space will once again be home to a spectacular Christmas ice rink. Made with real ice and situated indoors, it’s the perfect place to go ice skating in London with your friends or family. Take a moment out from gliding through the stores to gliding the ice. Revel in the fashionable surroundings of Westfield London’s indoor rink, in The Atrium. Fun Penguin and Seal stabilisers will keep young skaters looking like professionals and festive tunes will provide the perfect soundtrack for a magical experience. Tickets for the ice rink are on sale - Kids themed sessions, Wednesday 2-for-1 for students and date and disco nights ensure something for everyone. Book now and take advantage of the off peak tickets at uk.westfield.com/london Eyeskate at the London Eye From 27th November 2013 - 5th January 2014 This winter add a little sparkle to your Christmas visit, take to the ice as the iconic London Eye presents it’s very own, open air ice skating rink in 40 DECEMBER2013

the glorious shadow of the world’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel right in the heart of the fabulously festival Southbank in London. By day guests can enjoy the breathtaking views of this feat of engineering and by night festive lighting will provide the perfect atmosphere to have some fun with friends, family and colleagues alike. Open 7 days a week.

Book online at www.londoneye.com or at the onsite ticket office.

Ice at the Tower at Tower of London From 16th November 2013 - 5th January 2014 What better way to celebrate the festive season than ice skating in the 1000 year old Tower Moat. Back by popular demand for yet another year. Feel the cold tingle of London’s crisp winter air, listen to the music, and take in the incomparable surroundings as you glide (gracefully or not so) around the rink in the moat of one of London’s most iconic landmarks. Whether you pop along with friends during your lunchtime, plan a romantic date or decide to make a day of it at this world-famous fortification, the Tower of London ice rink is one of the coolest locations for winter fun with a group of friends or a festive family gathering. www.toweroflondonicerink.com

F E AT U R E NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

HAMPTON COURT PALACE

TOWER OF LONDON WESTFIELD LONDON

WINTER WONDERLAND, HYDE PARK

Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park From 23th November 2013 - 5th January 2014 Winter Wonderland celebrates its 7th year! The UK’s largest outdoor Ice Rink will once again be located around the picturesque setting of the historic Victorian bandstand, creating a beautiful centre piece for Winter Wonderland. Stretching over 1,350m2, the outdoor rink will be the biggest of its kind. You can feel the cold tingle of the crisp winter air, listen to the music and take in the festive surroundings as you glide around the rink in London’s Hyde Park Winter Wonderland. Winter Wonderland provides fun, laughter and excitement for both adults and children. As well as the stunning ice rink and observation wheel, Winter Wonderland includes gentle rides for younger children.Children can meet Santa in his grotto every day from 10am to 6pm. Entry is free but the queue will close at 4pm on busy days. Book online at www. hydeparkwinterwonderland.com Natural History Museum Ice Rink Until 5th January 2014 Embrace winter at their 950-square-metre ice rink, London’s most spectacular winter attraction. Set within the lawns of the Natural History Museum, the Ice Rink will offer an array of entertainment and events for all ages, plus a lovely Café Bar where guests can warm up in the most cosmopolitan and cosy fashion. For those who don’t wish to take to the ice, but want to soak up the festive fun and stunning surroundings, the stylish Café Bar will offer sumptuous food, drinks and entertainment for all to enjoy. Book online at www.nhm.ac.uk or call the 24-hour Ticketmaster hotline on 0844 847 1576.

Skate at Somerset House, The Strand From 14th November 2013 - 5th January 2014 Skate at Somerset House is one of London’s most glamorous ice rinks.

Enhance your experience with Skate Extras and opt for champagne &

chocolate, dinner at Tom’s Kitchen or a luxury stay at The Savoy.After dark, music turns up the tempo as the rink transforms into an ice dance floor as part of the Club Nights sessions. Top live DJs from Europe and the UK’s leading clubs spin the latest soundtracks while you skate. Glad Tidings Tuesdays brings the spirit of Christmas to Skate at Somerset House on Tuesday evenings with festive music, a special late night shopping experience at The Christmas Arcade, and traditional yuletide treats including mince pies, toffee apples and mulled wine served rink-side.The Christmas Arcade is the ice rink’s pop-up mall with stalls from the very best of British brands and independent artisans. Book online at www.somersethouse.org or call Ticketmaster on 0844 847 1520 Ice At the Palace, Hampton Court Palace From 30th November 2013 - 12th January 2014 The Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink returns this festive period for another skating season. Put on your ear muffs, gloves and skates, grab someone’s hand and have some fun this Christmas. The outdoor ice rink at Hampton Court offers spectacular views of the magnificent Palace that Henry VIII once lived in.Book an evening session to see the palace lit up after dark while you skate under the evening stars! The Ice Bar & Café provides a welcome place to warm up after your skate, serving a selection of winter drinks and festive snacks. Book online at www.hamptoncourticerink.com Ice Rink Canary Wharf Until 16th February 2014 Located in the heart of Canary Wharf, and bathed in twinkling festive lights, it is even bigger and better than last year, the rink has a unique skate path which leads skaters under trees lit with fairy lights then back onto the main rink. Their onsite bar is brought to you by Boisdale, offering a range of festive drinks and food. A party package is available for larger bookings. The bar also features an outdoor viewing terrace from which non-skaters can watch the fun. Prices vary, visit www.icerinkcanarywharf.co.uk for more details on party bookings and ticket prices.

DECEMBER2013 41

Weddings at Brocket Hall

F E AT U R E

GET ON BOARD

with the latest in the World of Water at the London Boat Show

Adventure seekers looking to kick-start 2014 should look no further than the London Boat Show. This world famous event is the place to take in the very best of the marine world, offering visitors everything they need to get active, get informed and get on board for the coming year.

T

he 2014 Show will see world famous brands return to ExCeL alongside the best of British manufacturers. A range of stunning boats will make their debut, including the Fairline Targa 48 GT and Princess Yachts V48, illustrating some of the most elegant design and skilled boatbuilding available.

The Show will host boats of every shape, size and variety as well as everything an enthusiast could possibly need and more – with both power and sail boats on boardwalks that will provide a stunning vista across the event.

Nowhere else can so many boats, brands

44 DECEMBER2013

and products be experienced in one place. Visitors are able to see, touch and test all these products and receive face to face advice that cannot be matched.

This year the London Boat Show sees its 60th anniversary and will be celebrating in style with some fantastic attractions running through the nine-day Show, including: Adventurous Cruising Zone an exclusive opportunity to learn directly from the boat owners who have experienced the seas and industry experts who will share their knowledge on topics from navigation to boat handling and weather his J.P. AR

F E AT U R E

4TH - 12TH JANUARY 2014 EXCEL LONDON

America’s Cup winner, Sir Ben Ainslie will be visiting the Show, bringing his JP Morgan BAR AC45 which will be on display to visitors. Meet the team and see this iconic catamaran up close!

The Watersports Pool presented by On The Water - take part in a range of activities from canoeing to Stand Up Paddleboarding in free taster sessions courtesy of the Rockley team Watch top sailors compete in exciting regattas in the dock, racing yachts with Fine Art Sails. See the winner of a nationwide competition for schoolchildren to design an art sail in aid of the Andrew Simpson Sailing Foundation, the Show’s official charity for 2014 The Telegraph Cruise Show - from Friday 10th January to Sunday 12th January, visitors to the London Boat Show get two Shows for the price of one with ticket holders granted special access to the Telegraph Cruise Show*

Located at ExCeL, it couldn’t be easier to visit the Show.

Visitors can travel by bike, car or DLR. Alternatively why not take in the views of London and access the Show via cable car spanning the river from Greenwich to the Royal Docks.

Tickets for the Show can be purchased in advance for a daily price of £10 or, new for this year, the London Boat Show is pleased to offer the perfect Christmas present, a bespoke Gift Voucher to visit the Show (while stocks last).

For further information on the Show or to purchase tickets and vouchers, please visit www.londonboatshow.com or @LoveBoatShows on Facebook and Twitter.

DECEMBER2013 45

F E AT U R E

THE SHIRE The only Seve Ballesteros designed golf course in the UK

“I’ve designed many courses around the world, but this is my first in the UK. I was waiting for an opportunity to create a golf complex with a course which looked and played like I thought it should and with first class clubhouse and leisure facilities.”

W

We are doing our bit to encourage beginners by launching a new Get Into Golf membership... new blood is essential if golf is to attract the commercial investment it needs to keep up with other sports, many of which receive more government funds than golf, in this country at least.

One look at the Ballesteros Masters golf course in May will tell you that our magnificent, international-class golf course truly will look, and play, better this season than it has ever done. Elsewhere on this website you can read about some of the work which Tony Peterson’s course management team has been doing, but we are as passionate about presenting the course in best-possible condition, as you are about playing it. On the greens, we’ll average between 10 and 11 on the Stimpmeter this season, much faster than the average for Hertfordshire. Augusta is 13.

“Brush With Death” for The Shire London founder inspires MidSummer Masters The Shire London owner Tony Menai Davis announces star-studded celebrity golf event to raise money for the hospital which saved his life.

Mid-Summer Masters, 21st June 2013, aims to raise £24,000 to pay for an ECMO machine at Papworth Hospital . May 31st 2012 seemed to be just another Thursday at The Shire London Golf Club, but it ended in a dramatic ambulance journey, and a brush with death for the club’s owner, Tony Menai Davis. And now the Welsh-born golf entrepreneur, who in December 2012 opened the West London Golf Centre near Ruislip has announced a celebrity golf day to be held at his golf club on the longest day of the year, to raise funds to buy an ECMO machine – the device which kept him alive, at Papworth Hospital.

e’re looking forward to another eventful and enjoyable summertime at The Shire London, and as we enter our seventh season we have a typically full agenda here at the club. Although many of you will by now have visited our new range in west London, and will be aware of the two golf courses we are building over there, no matter what happens elsewhere in the group The Shire London will always be our priority. It is the standardsetter for everything which we are doing. Memberships at The Shire are among London’s most-prized, and we always strive to give you, our valued Members, the best possible service and quality.

For more information about The Shire London, St Albans Road, Barnet, Herts EN5 4RE call 020 8441 7649 or email golf@theshirelondon.com www. theshirelondon.com 46 DECEMBER2013

DEFY CONVENTION

RAISE A GLASS, RAISE A SMILE ALL-NEW MAZDA3 LAUNCH EVENT 3-5 JANUARY 2014 AT BRAYLEY MAZDA

Join us to celebrate the launch of all-new Mazda3 at our exclusive launch event on 3-5 January where you can explore the car’s many impressive features in your own time. Better still, book a test drive in this exciting new model and the combination of exhilarating handling and innovative technology is sure to raise the pulse. ALL-NEW MAZDA3. DEFY CONVENTION.

RAISE YOUR INTEREST? Visit www.brayley-mazda.co.uk to find out more or call 01582 447378 to pre-book your test drive° today.

Brayley Mazda 17 Luton Road, Harpenden, Hertfordshire AL5 2UA 01582 447378

The official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the all-new Mazda3 range: Urban 37.7 (7.5) - 60.1 (4.7). Extra Urban 58.9 (4.8) - 80.7 (3.5).

Combined 48.7 (5.8) - 72.4 (3.9). CO2 emissions (g/km) 135 – 104.

The MPG figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results obtained through laboratory testing. These are provided for comparability purposes only and may not reflect your actual driving results. °Test drives subject to applicant status and availability.

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

FINDING SOMEONE BEAUTIFUL IN THE SPA... YOU! The Cove Spa, St Albans, is a haven of tranquillity and relaxation where traditional rituals are a ‘must-experience’. This amazing customer journey is now available at the BodyMagic Spa in Hitchin. Early in the New Year, BodyMagic will be rebranded to The Cove Spa, Hitchin.

A

Bushey couple have surprised themselves after their sumptuous spa scooped a top industry award. Vikee Patel, who co-directs The Cove Spa in St Albans with her husband Krupesh Patel, got a very pleasant surprise when they received an invitation to the Coolherbals British Beauty awards. The couple travelled to The Grand Connaught Rooms in London where the event was held this year, to discover that they have won the title ‘The Most Commendable Spa/Salon 2013’.

Mrs Patel was presented the award at the ceremony by TV presenter Helen Shepherd, alongside the managing directors of Coolherbs Ravi and Sushma Bhanot. Vikee said “The win was a very pleasant surprise for us! We had an email saying that our name had been nominated for this award (without us having applied), however we never expected to win. We have come to the conclusion that a secret team may have come over to the spa to test the treatments and to monitor the level of customer service. I can only guess that is why our name was put forward.”

When Mr and Mrs Patel were asked why they think the spa beat over 3,000 spas to win the award, they mentioned that it could be down to them offering a traditional style spa, rather than following the masses in addition to thinking about what their customers really want.

48 DECEMBER2013

Vikee also commented saying “We have excellent customer service and an infra-red room which is similar to a dry steam sauna; it is really good for the skin and muscles! We also have a unique couples room, which means you can have treatments as a pair rather than having to wait for one and other.”

Putting customers first is exactly what Vikee and Krupesh have in mind for The Cove Spa in Hitchin. This spa offers disabled access and a unique Thermal Suite comprising of a monsoon shower, steam room, aromatherapy suite and relaxation lounge.

SPA-DAY RITUALS Holistic and Wellbeing Therapies massages - facials - reflexology - reiki Beauty and Cosmetic Treatments threading - waxing - nails - inch-loss wrap Specialist Skincare skin analysis and treatment - wrinkle relaxation - dermal fillers - semi permanent make-up For more information about the great offers avaialble in both branches Call The Cove Spa, St Albans on 01727 833808 or visit www.thecovespa.co.uk Or call BodyMagic, Hitchin on 01462 440410 or visit www.bodymagic-hitchin.co.uk

E RE TH NT TE CE SI O UIN PP Q O LE R HA

C 01 AL 92 L N 3 O 23 W 36 O 00 N

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

JAY PADAYACHY

SENOVA DENTAL STUDIOS YOUR SMILE, OUR PASSION® Jay Padayachy BDS N’cle, principal dentist at Senova Dental Studios in central Watford, has been at the award winning practice since 1998 focusing on general and cosmetic dentistry.

Our award winning practice is a centre of dental excellence offering multi disciplinary services under one roof.

overcrowding. Meera Shah, our specialist orthodontist will recommend what works for each particular situation and problem. Why not call the practice and book your Invisalign consultation for FREE!

For many people, day to day life can be embarrassing if they have bad dental hygiene, irregular or chipped teeth. With effective and regular visits to both Jay and dental hygienists Eva Tkacova and Smita Mistry, this can be a thing of the past. We are very proud to announce that Eva has been shortlisted for the prestigious Young Hygienist of the year award. Call 01923 233600 and book your new patient examination now!

Tooth whitening is another very popular service for virtually instantaneously improving the appearance of discoloured teeth. Zoom! tooth whitening can dramatically improve the colour of natural teeth.

Zoom! has been proven to lighten natural teeth by up to 6 to 8 shades.

The practice is an approved BUPA referral centre and can care for patients who have BUPA dental insurance requiring wisdom teeth extractions. To compliment this service, conscious sedation is also available for any patients that are anxious or afraid. With the expansion of this service, the team have welcomed on board two specialist oral surgeons, Mr Samy Darwish and Mr Abdel Tawfik. They are happy to see both BUPA and non BUPA covered patients.

With more and more patients coming to Senova with missing teeth or dentures, Eugene Marais, our Oral Implantologist, uses his expertise to place dental implants which are an effective, advanced and long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth. The practice has often been told that dental implants have literally changed patients’ lives!

Senova frequently sees patients wanting a solution for teeth which are crooked or mis-aligned. With a wide range of systems available such as Invisalign® and the Inman Aligner (removable braces), labial braces (on the exterior of the teeth) and lingual braces (which are hidden from view on the inside of the teeth) there are a number of options, which can accommodate all levels of 50 DECEMBER2013

Two options are available, in surgery power whitening or home whitening. The in surgery process takes as little as two hours and home whitening, when used as instructed by Jay, can take two to four weeks, both giving the same ultimate result. So if you want to dazzle at the Christmas party season, call us and book your smile whitening with Zoom! You will be impressed with your new healthy, white smile. We even offer gift vouchers for Zoom! whitening if you want to brighten family and friends’ lives.

We are offering Zoom! power whitening at £299.00 until January 31st 2014 For more information visit Senova Dental Studios at 10 Beechen Grove, Watford WD17 2AD or call the practice on 01923 233600. www.senovadental.com

A comprehensive new patient examination, with Jay, is available at a cost of £85.00 inclusive of full mouth examination, digital photographs, all x-rays, gum health screening, oral cancer screening and a full personalised treatment plan.

We offer early (8.00am) and late appointments (up to 7pm).

Time for a check up?

If you’re concerned about the health of your teeth and gums, put them in the hands of our experts.

Watford-based Senova Dental Studios is one of the UK’s leading practices in terms of professional experience, expertise and technology.

We cover all areas of routine dentistry as well as cosmetic treatments.

What’s more, we’ll put you at your ease with our friendly and relaxed service. We’ll make you as comfortable as possible, so visiting the dentist is a pleasant experience. With TV screens, DVDs and lavender pillows, it’ll feel like you’re at a dental spa!

• • • • • •

Hygiene and prevention White fillings Inlays and veneers Implants Invisalign® & Orthodontics Zoom! tooth whitening

Book your ‘check up’ only £85.00

Contact us for more information or to book an appointment Call 01923 233600 www.senovadental.com Senova Dental Studios 10 Beechen Grove | Watford | Herts | WD17 2AD | Tel: 01923 233600

(opposite the Harlequin Centre)

Soliton Ltd trading as Senova Dental Studios - Reg No. 02532617

Jingle belles Amp up the glamour via your make-up bag. Lisa Haynes reveals the shortcuts to dazzling party looks

Y

Givenchy Limited Edition Ondulations D’OR Palette, £38.50 (01932 233824)

ou don’t have to invest bags of time showpiece, look to matte, red lips that or money to look a million dollars take mistletoe kisses and canapes in their during party season. The sparkly stride. “There’s nothing more chic than and decadent beauty offerings a red lip with neutral eyes,” says Brown. illuminating shelves at this time of year, “Matte products are dense and last longest it the focus of your look and toning down make Operation Glam a breeze. Two-fifths - they contain less moisture than other blush and lips. “To nail the metallic trend, of women spend up to two hours preening products, so they adhere to the lips and don’t try using two shimmering shades,” advises before a big festive night, according to a fade as quickly.” Blot your lips and reapply Una Tynan, founder of Blank Canvas recent survey by Lambrini. But there are your red for extra longevity. Take the colour Brushes. “Sweep a deeper metallic shadow cracking shortcuts if you play up your up a notch with a gloss in the same colour on the lids, blending into the socket line best feature, whether it’s tinselas your lipstick, or pop a metallic and stay below the brow bones to create a inspired eyes or Santa-red gloss just to the centre of your halo effect on lids. Apply a lighter metallic lips. “The new rule in pout to give them an shadow on the inner corners to holiday make-up is instant plumping complete the look.” For extra razzleabout what makes boost. dazzle, adorn eyes with a sweep of you feel glamorous,” sparkling eyeliner as a finishing touch. says make-up artist Glitter bug Bobbi Brown. Give Feed your friends and family’s skin at Like Christmas Angelic glow the Christmas table. Origins Surprise pudding on You might be the devil of the office Estee Lauder Golden Twist cracker set includes six decorated December 25, Christmas do but ensure your face Luxuries limited edition set, crackers, each containing two 15ml metallic and says otherwise. Strategically placed £60 (www.esteelauder.co.uk) skincare products, joke card, and Origins glitter eyes are highlighter can give you a wide-eyed yourself the gift of mini-facial headband. Available from a party season innocent look and lift your cheekbones glam this party season.

December 1 for £45 at Origins. tradition you can’t to rival supermodel Kate Moss. Makeco.uk and Selfridges. avoid. Play up up artist Rae Morris says: “The Dolce & Gabbana Santa red molten metallic golden rule of highlighting is that Sicilian Jewels Intense If your pout’s your party eyeshadow by making the colour you choose must be the Nail Lacquer in

BuY it now

Ametista, £19 (www.harrods.com)

52 DECEMBER2013

All images courtesy of PA Photo/Handout

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

tried & tested Lisa Haynes kicks back for an at-home spa experience ahead of party season

Bobbi Brown Limited Edition Old Hollywood Eye Palette, £59 (www.bobbibrown.co.uk)

same as your skin tone or lighter, and must always have a shiny or shimmery finish.” Use a gold metallic cream or pencil in the inner corners of your eye, under the brows and on cheekbones to illuminate your face under the disco ball.

Lash decor Fluttery false eyelashes are ideal if you want an instant glam transformation. Forget the natural-look lashes and think showgirl eyes, with dazzling accents of bold colour.

“Popping on a pair of false lashes can instantly transform tired eyes and make them look brighter and sexier,” says Amanda Elias, facial Therapist and Bravura London founder.

“If you’ve never applied lashes then practice, practice, practice - five minutes before you’re due to leave the house is not the time to try false eyelashes for the first time.”

I always feel at my party season best when preened and pampered. But there are downsides to being a glamazon devotee. There’s that tacky feeling immediately after a spray tan, the hand waving for half an hour to speed up mani drying time, and then there’s the fear of putting your feet back into your shoes after a pedi. Smudge alert! Urban Retreat at Home eliminates the faff. Treatments take place on your sofa (or bed, if you’re feeling particularly lazy) and you don’t have to move an inch afterwards. With festive revelry ahead, I opt for the ‘Express Prep to Party’ package with home therapist Charlie.

She lands at my doorstep and practically unravels a pop-up spa from her pink luggage in my lounge, including a fluffy towels, silver bowl - which she fills with soapy suds - and a virtual candy shop of Leighton Denny and OPI nail colours. Charlie begins by prepping my feet, soaking my soles and exfoliating with a Leighton Denny Diamond Sole Mate scrub. Once my feet are dried, a Micropedi electric device is used to eliminate dead and hard skin and then my toenails are treated and cuticles removed. After a quick massage with Leighton Denny Sole Pleasure, my feet look more than ready for open-toe heels, even without the polish. My fingernails are then soaked, scrubbed and prepped with the same meticulous mani preperation. Meanwhile, the most I’ve done is pick up the remote to switch TV channels. With both sets of nails prepped, Charlie assembles a pop-up Sienna X tanning booth and mixes up a bronzing solution to suit my skin tone. I crank up my heating and de-robe then the tan is sprayed using a super-fine airbrush, as Charlie instructs me to stand in different poses for an all-over glow. Although it’s fast-drying, I’m given a disposable black kimono to sit in as Charlie paints my fingers and toes on my newly tanned limbs. I opt for Greycious (dark grey) on my fingers and Passion (dark red) on my toes, and smudge avoidance is made easy by chilling on the sofa for an hour.

Charlie even leaves me a cosy pair of Urban Retreat white slippers and cup of spa tea to continue the relaxation vibe. I’m glowing, polished and ready to party. Now I all have to do is swap my living room for a dancefloor.

Urban Retreat at Home Express Prep to Party package includes express manicure, express pedicure and spray tan, from £75 for one hour and 30 minutes. Available nationwide (0844 793 8344/www.urbanretreat.co.uk/at_home).

Festive fingers Aim for the best dressed hands on the dancefloor. Forget your party shoes and clutch, the matchy-matchy look is big in for a LBD. “Swap the beauty too. “Matching your lipstick to your traditional take on the grey nail lacquer is a hot make-up trend,” says smoky eye with a sultry yet Pat McGrath, Dolce & Gabbana creative subtle blend of purple and advisor. “Jewel-like colours are a perfect blue,” Kay Montano, make-up complement to any Christmas or New artist for M&S Beauty. “These Year outfit, just like a piece of jewellery.” shades really enhance the Add some razzle dazzle with a top coat of colour of the iris so play with shimmering gold glitter polish different shades this party Lancome L’Absolu Rouge for the ultimate festive mani. season.” For a subtle look, Christmas Limited Edition Lipstick, £25 avoid an eyelid wash and try (www.lancome.co.uk) Seasonal smoky a fine line close to the lash Ditch the monochromatics and take line or concentrate your your eyes up a notch with a showparty piece colour on the stopping colour; the perfect accessory inner corners of the eye.

Benefit Whole Lotta Lovin’ palette, £25 (www.benefitcosmetics.co.uk)

Beauty bulletin :: Bedtime buddy It’s official, the majority of women would rather give up sex and Downton Abbey than moisturiser, according to a survey by Sanctuary Spa. While 55% revealed that they’d rather give up nooky than their daily moisturiser, 94% would ditch Downton to save their beauty potion. The average British woman spends £162 a year on skincare products alone but more than two-fifths (42%) admit to lying to their partner about money spent on beauty products. :: Recessionista alert Achieve an uplifted look for party season with Dr Lewinns. The Cosmetic Lift five-piece set is currently reduced from £115 to just £40. Available now, while stocks last (www. drlewinns.co.uk).

Ted Baker The Great and the Gorgeous set, £40 (www.boots.com)

DECEMBER2013 53

dental& skinclinic

A new dental experience with your award winning team.

Voted finalists in this year’s prestigious Private Dentistry Awards (and 2010)

honoring excellence in dentistry and facial aesthetics. A team of dentists offering an extraordinary new approach to maintaining your oral health. Azamay transcends the boundaries of traditional dentistry by leveraging a combination of state - of - the - art dental technology and a soothing dental spa atmosphere.

Take a tour of our website and discover Azamay. Take advantage of our new patient offer of £50 for dental health exam and hygiene.

DENTAL MENU

FACIAL AESTHETICS

Dental check-ups Hygiene treatments Teeth whitening Crowns/bridges Veneers Dental implants Root canal Orthodontics

Anti-ageing injections Dermal fillers Vitamin face treatments RF8 Face lift Advanced facials Slimming treatments

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27 Heddon Court Parade, Cockfosters Road, Barnet EN4 0DB

Organised by

Organised by

This is to certify that

This is to certify that

This is to certify that

Azamay Dental Spa

Azamay Dental Spa

Azamay Dental Spa

is awarded Finalist in the category of

is awarded Finalist in the category of

is awarded Finalist in the category of

BEST FACIAL AESTHETICS PRACTICE

BEST MARKETING

PRACTICE OF THE SOUTH

Honouring excellence in private dentistry

Honouring excellence in private dentistry

Honouring excellence in private dentistry

info@azamay.com • www.azamay.com

020 8449 6858 Sponsors:

Sponsors:

SUPPORTED CHARITY:

Sponsors:

SUPPORTED CHARITY:

a

n

E YEAR

Finalist: Best Dental Practice Best Facial Aesthetics Best Marketing

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SUPPORTED CHARITY:

Runner Up: Best Dental Practice Finalist: Best Marketing Best Private Dentist

Azamay is registered, and therefore licensed to provide services, by the Care Quality Commission (Provider ID: 1-205038092).

For more information, visit www.cqc.org.uk

& TREATMENT FOR VARICOSE VEINS

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

h ealt h beau ty

LEADING CONSULTANT VASCULAR SURGEON MICHAEL GAUNT OPENS A NEW PRACTICE AT THE LONDON CLINIC IN HARLEY STREET AND DISCUSSES THE TREATMENT OF VARICOSE AND THREAD VEINS… WHAT ARE VARICOSE VEINS? Varicose veins are a common problem affecting at least 20% of the adult population in the UK. ey occur when small valves inside the veins stop functioning correctly.

Rather than blood flowing effortlessly back towards the heart, the blood stagnates within the veins causing aching,

Michael Gaunt tiredness and discomfort.

At first, problem veins may not be visible but symptoms occur.

Sometimes patches of blue thread veins may be the earliest signs of an underlying problem. Eventually, the abnormal veins may become swollen, enlarged and varicose. is condition can be embarrassing and painful.

Varicose veins are usually blue or dark purple in colour and may also be lumpy or twisted in appearance.

While any vein can be affected, varicose veins most commonly develop in the legs and feet – predominantly because standing and walking can put pressure on the veins in the lower body.

WHY SHOULD I CONSIDER HAVING THEM TREATED? In the developing stages, varicose veins and thread veins may be primarily a cosmetic problem. However, if ignored, the condition can deteriorate and a variety of complications can occur such as leg swelling, pigmentation of the skin around the ankles and ulcers.

Occasionally, veins can burst causing bleeding, or the blood within the veins can clot leading to the painful condition of phlebitis or even deep vein thrombosis. People who use air travel for work or holidays may be at increased risk particularly if those flights are long haul.

IS THIS TREATMENT JUST FOR WOMEN? Certainly not, it can affect men just as much as it can affect women.

Men tend to cover their legs up more, so the problem may be hidden away and ignored, with some men only seeking treatment when their veins become swollen and complications start to occur.

It is important to target varicose veins before they become a problem, as without medical treatment some conditions may worsen.

WHAT IS INVOLVED IN TREATMENT AND IS IT PAINFUL? Fortunately, modern, minimally invasive treatments can often be MB BE 5 368 DDEECC EE M ER R 22 0 0 11 33

performed under local anaesthetic as a walk-in, walk-out procedure. is leaves the patient with minimal postoperative pain with practically immediate return to normal activity.

Michael Gaunt is a leading venous expert and has extensive knowledge of these procedures, having treated over 4,000 patients with the Endovenous Laser and ClariVein techniques.

Both techniques are associated with considerably less pain, bruising and scarring than traditional stripping techniques.

IS IT PERMANENT? Most modern techniques for treating varicose veins are associated with very good, long-term results.

Patients are benefiting more and more from the advances in the treatments and the new procedures that are now available.

HOW CAN I GET MY THREAD VEINS TREATED? Not all visible veins in the legs are varicose veins. Small veins underneath the skin, known as thread veins, spider veins or reticular veins, may become prominent due to a variety of different reasons. ey can cause symptoms of discomfort, itching and irritation as well as being unsightly.

Often the appearance of thread veins is due to the effect of daily wear and tear on delicate skin and local treatments are effective. However, sometimes thread veins are an indication of underlying varicose veins which may not be visible on examination.

Treatment of the thread veins will not be successful unless the underlying problem - for example the varicose veins - has been corrected first. erefore, a thorough venous assessment is necessary before initiating any local treatment for thread veins. is could include injection microsclerotherapy or VeinWave therapy.

Once underlying varicose veins have been treated or excluded, local treatment of the thread veins is much more likely to be successful.

VeinWave therapy is also very effective at removing unsightly facial red veins affecting the nose and cheeks.

ONCE I’VE DECIDED TO HAVE TREATMENT, WHAT IS THE NEXT STEP? Make an appointment where we can assess your condition and discuss potential treatment and steps forward. ese no obligation consultations are offered at e London Clinic in Harley Street.

If you would like to book a mini-consultation, including an ultrasound scan, for just £95, or if you would like to find out more about your treatment options call 01223 305858 or visit www.michaelgaunt.com ■

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NEW YEAR NEW LEGS NEW YOU

NEW

Did your legs let you down over the summer because of varicose veins or thread veins?

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H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

Who wants a hottie tummy?

Do you have stubborn pockets of fat that just won’t disappear no matter how hard you exercise or diet? If so, the VASER Lipo may well be for you.

W

ith the likes of TOWIE’s Maria Fowler, and several other celebrities all benefiting from the amazing results of VASER Lipo, Dr Jain’s high definition body contouring practice is growing from strength to strength!

VASER Lipo uses revolutionary new ultrasound technology which removes stubborn pockets of fat resistant to diet and exercise. The procedure has been hailed as ‘six pack surgery’ as it is even possible to reveal your hidden six pack with this revolutionary form of liposuction.

Dr Jain will not only get you looking fit, you’ll look younger, more energetic and in one word, fantastic. You’ll want to use that new body of yours. With no hospital stay, little bruising and minimal incisions VASER Lipo is the answer.

RESHAPE YOUR BODY AND INVIGORATE YOUR LIFE Traditional liposuction is like sculpting with a shop vac. Everything gets sucked and chipped away without any detail. VASER 4D liposculpture is like taking a fine chisel and tapering each and every curve; every angle is perfect and muscular.

ITS NOT JUST LIPOSUCTION. ITS VASER 4D SCULPT. VASER 4D Liposculpture is a revolution to the cosmetic surgery industry. At its inception, liposuction was designed just to remove fat.

Liposculpture is a whole new way of looking and designing the anatomy so that it fits you and your lifestyle like your body should. With the VASER technology, Dr Ravi Jain removes extra fat and tightens your skin around the new curves and muscles. He leaves certain deposits of fat to accentuate your muscles while removing others to create dips and valleys around them.

He sculpts your body into the ultimate harmony of art and science, talent and medicine WHO CAN HAVE VASER 4D? The VASER 4D procedure is meant for people who are already in good physical shape but have trouble achieving a defined ,athletic physique. Both 58 DECEMBER2013

BEFORE TREATMENT

BEFORE TREATMENT

AFTER TREATMENT

AFTER TREATMENT

men & women can be treated. VASER 4D is not mean for people who are very overweight or obese. The procedure depends heavily on skin retraction to help define the anatomical results. For people who are overly heavy, the skin has stretch beyond where VASER could help it retract. Please ask Dr Ravi Jain what other cosmetic options you may have if this describes you.

HOW DOES VASER WORK? VASER is an advanced medical ultrasound technology (VASER stands for Vibration Amplification of Sound Energy at Resonance). During surgery, the VASER probe emits sound energy that literally liquefies fat tissue before it is gently suctioned away. In traditional liposuction, the fat is just sucked away - taking blood vessels, nerves and important connective tissue with it - resulting in severe pain, a longer recovery and mediocre results. With VASER, the liquid fat is easier to suction away, far gentler on the body and can be sculpted to enhance muscle appearance.

CAN YOU SAY “CONFIDENCE BOOST” ?

Just imagine how you would feel without any extra fat, keeping you from your own carefree lifestyle. No more worrying about how that bikini will fit, or swimming with a T-shirt on. No more crash diets/ No more staring in the mirror, wishing you were slimmer.

Areas commonly treated: Double Chin & Jowls Bingo Wings (Upper arms) Saddle Bags / Love handles Upper / lower abdomen Inner / outer thighs

DR RAVI JAIN

Dr Ravi Jain is one of a few experts in VASER high definition liposculpture in the world. He practices from his Harpenden & Harley Street clinics. Please call Riverbanks Clinic on 01582762877 to book in for an exploratory consultation.

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

Who needs mascara?

W

e have always tried to look our best; using the latest makeup, special face creams, masks and serums.

However, when you reach a certain age you start to consider more drastic action to reduce the signs of ageing slowly appearing on your face. Boxtox and Restlyane start to appear tempting despite the horror stories (and faces) of those who have taken it that bit too far. But what’s the alternative? Well we are going to let you in on a secret: eyelash extensions. No, not the Cheryl Cole-esque strips or those individual lashes you can buy in the pharmacy. These are single strands of pre curled synthetic fibre which are applied one at a time to your own natural lashes, adding length but, more importantly, volume and curl. Suddenly lashes that were starting to appear short, stumpy and dull are transformed into beautifully defined, thickened, darkened and curled lashes that look like the most perfectly applied mascara, only better.

The finished result can literally knock years off your look with the whole eye area appearing lifted and more youthful. The need for heavy liner or large amounts of eyeshadow is gone, giving a cleaner and more elegant finish. And the best bit? Flutter provides a professional, salon quality mobile service so you can enjoy the relaxing application process in the comfort of your own home. Your Flutter lash artist will carry out a full consultation with you before they commence treatment, to determine the look you want to create, whether that’s super natural or a little more glam. The highly trained team use unique techniques and systems to apply the extensions, enabling them to be worn on a continuous basis without causing any damage to the natural lashes. They just require top up appointments every 3-4 weeks to keep them looking thick and full.

So before you resort to those scary injections, throw your mascara away and call Flutter today to book our mobile service. 01372 386312 or book online at www.fluttereyes.co.uk

Before

60 DECEMBER2013

After

Before

After

...so try us for size!

57 High Street, Kings Langley WD4 9HU

Tel: 01923 26 47 43

Wake up to beautiful eyes every day Flutter gives you longer-lasting luscious lashes.

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H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

Gifts of beauty joy Indulge the beauty addict in your life with a pampering surprise.

Lisa Haynes plays Mrs Claus with a sack-load of seasonal beauties

W

hat’s a Christmas tree without the faint aroma of wrapped beauty goodies teasing under the twinkling lights?

Declare the festive holidays a time for manicured fingers, signature fragrances and bubble baths, with a pampering present for a loved one. From miniature treats to gargantuan sets, we’ve got your beauty shopping all wrapped up.

Stocking-thrillers Small but perfectly formed, these beauty miniatures make perfect little extras for stuffing in stockings. :: Breathe in the smell of Christmas with Aromatherapy Associates’ Little Bell.

The cute blue box includes a mini Revive Morning Bath and Shower Oil, £10 (www. aromatherapyassociates.com). :: Fingernails get the festive touch with Mavala’s Cracking Duo set. The talon double acts are available in six Estee Lauder Fragrance Treasures, £32 (nationwide)

82 0 DECEMB B EE R R2 02 10 31 3 6

complementary colour ways, £9 each (www. lookfantastic.com). :: Get box clever with a fragrant surprise. Jo Malone’s Christmas Ornament opens up to reveal a mini Pomegranate Noir Cologne and English Pear & Freesia Body Creme, £20 (08700 342 411). :: Deck the tree with a beauty bauble. Origins’ decorative ball is packed with five skincare best-sellers in miniature size, £12, from December 1 (www.selfridges.co.uk).

Multi miracles Ideal for the indecisive, festive beauty packages come in glorious multiples for every day of the week. :: When one luxury lipstick just isn’t enough...

Elizabeth Arden’s Ceramide Lipstick Collection set includes four shades, housed

Buy it noW Celebrate the tradition of giving with Rituals’ limited edition winter collection.

From the Scared Fire Candle (mum), to the Sandalwood ‘Life is a Journey’ car perfume (dad), there’s something for everyone on your Christmas list. Priced from £8.50-24.50 (uk.rituals.com).

in a sparkling evening purse, £35 (John Lewis). :: Leave a scent aficionado spoilt for choice on Christmas morning. Estee Lauder’s Fragrance Treasures includes four pursefriendly eau de parfum fragrances in a pretty gift box, £32 (nationwide). :: Designate a nail polish for every month of 2014. Worth £138, Nails Inc’s Nail Polish Diary includes 12 full-size new and best-seller nail polishes, £42 (www.nailsinc.com). :: Treat the Christmas Day chef to some postdinner hand pampering. L’Occitane’s bestselling Shea Butter Hand Cream comes ith two exclusive editions for fragranced fingers in the Hand Cream Collection box, £24 (uk. loccitane.com).

Scent saviours Make this Christmas a fragrant one by sniffing out a luxurious new signature scent for 2014. :: Add some decadence to a dressing table.

Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Ultra Lipstick Color Set, £35 (John Lewis)

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

tried & tested Meet the latest French beauty invasion; micellar water is a gentle, water-based cleanser that doesn’t require a toner. Our testers polish up their skin in time for party season: :: L’Oreal Paris Skin Perfection 3 in 1 Purifying Micellar Solution, £4.99 (Boots) This felt gentle and soothing on the skin and effectively removed traces of mascara; I didn’t feel like I needed to use eye make-up remover afterwards to remove stubborn panda eyes.

Beauty bulletin :: Bad hair day Warning: Avoid making appointments and dates on the last Wednesday of the month - as that’s when bad hair days are most likely to strike, according to a survey by hair and beauty retailer, Xtras.co.uk. Frizz is the most common problem for women to encounter. One-in-seven have confessed to cancelling plans due to a bad hair day in the past, while 3% claimed they’d never experienced one. Lucky things! :: Recessionista alert The next best thing to a spa day? Sprint to Boots to pick up Sanctuary Spa’s Top to Toe Glow Pamper Tin. Usually priced £40, Boots’ star gift of the week is reduced to £19 for one week only from November 22, while stocks last.

4/5

:: Bioderma Hydrabio H20 Micelle Solution, £9.99 (www.escentual. com) My skin immediately felt calmer on application. It removed my make-up (including stubborn eye make-up) speedily and left my face feeling toned and hydrated. A new regular for my bathroom cabinet.

5/5

:: Melvita Cleansing Micellar Water, £16 (uk.melvita.com) This beautifully floral fragranced product is gentle on skin and leaves it feeling soft and clean. It’s a great timesaver when you’ve overslept - a few wipes with cotton wool removes any traces of last night’s mascara in a jiffy.

4/5

All images courtesy of PA Photo/Handout

Michael Kors’ Glam Jasmine Set includes 50ml eau de parfum and 100ml Body Creme; perfect for revelling in some intensified fragrance layering, £55 (Debenhams). :: No wrapping required for Viktor & Rolf’s Flowerbomb. The Christmas limited edition fragrance has been wrapped up in sparkling white crystals and topped off with a couture bow, £75 for 50ml EDP (www.harrods.com). :: Summer nautical has been given a surprise seasonal twist. Jean Paul Gaultier’s Classique starry sailor-themed coffret includes 50ml eau de toilette and matching Body Lotion

Mavala Cracking Duo, £9 (www.lookfantastic.com)

and Shower Gel, £49 (nationwide). :: Pile on the perfume glitz. Fashion designer Roberto Cavalli has decked out his Just Cavalli Eau de Toilette Gift Set with a gold sequin box that looks like a catwalk frock, £47.50 (nationwide).

Bubbly boxes Give bathing beauties a licence to put up the ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign with these pampering sets. :: Guarantee a seasonal glow for skin. Soap & Glory’s bumper Bubble Barrelled bag is a 7-in-1 gift set featuring the best of the brand’s pink bodycare, £18 (Boots). :: After too many champagne bubbles, lather

up in soapy bubbles. Baylis & Harding’s Sweet Mandarin & Grapefruit 750ml Body Wash comes in gold sequin bottle bag, £3 (Asda/Sainsbury’s). :: Sweeten someone up with a delicious gift set. Philosophy’s The Cookie Exchange tin includes mouth-watering Christmas Cookie Shampoo, Shower Gel & Bubble Bath, Sweet Creamy Frosting Body Lotion and Sugar Sprinkles lip gloss, £22 (www. philosophyskincare.co.uk). :: Gift your Christmas star with a magical selection of bath treats. Lush’s Stardust box set is packed with girly sparkly and sweet scented products, £25.95 (www.lush.co.uk).

Jo Malone Christmas Ornament, £20 (08700 342 411)

Aromatherapy Associates Little Bell, £10 (www.aromatherapyassociates.com)

Origins Christmas Bauble, £12 (www.selfridges.co.uk)

DDE ECC EE MMBBEERR 22 00 11 33 6 83 1

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)

Dracula Therapy Bespoke Anti Ageing Facials just got taken to the next level at the Aesthetic Skin Centre

T

his is one of THE most talked about anti-ageing injectable treatments of the year, and rightly so! PRP Therapy may sound gruesome, giving rise to the names ‘Vampire Facial’ or ‘Dracula Therapy’, but world-renowned anti-ageing and hormone specialists have seen amazing results, from improving fine lines, wrinkles and skin texture, to reducing the signs of scars and stretch marks.

PRP Therapy is truly the way forward; an accomplished 100 percent natural procedure as it uses your body’s own tissue material, eliminating reactions and allergies for that coveted natural look. Simply put, PRP makes sense. It uses your own blood plasma (which is rich in restorative enzymes and growth factors) to accelerate tissue and wound repair. A small amount of your own blood is processed through a centrifuge to separate out the platelet-rich plasma. This bespoke serum is concentrated far beyond the normal levels the body produces.

When PRP is injected back into the skin, the platelets are activated to do what they do best – boost the skin’s natural ability to rejuvenate and repair the tissue in the affected area. It basically kick-starts your own anti-ageing ‘smart-switch’, using your body’s naturally super-charged anti-ageing capabilities.

BEFORE TREATMENT

Trudy Friedman, Owner/Director of ASC and a qualified registered nurse explains why she has bought Dracula Therapy into her portfolio of treatments. “I wanted to be able to offer patients a natural option that is both preventative and restorative, and PRP Dracula Therapy is clinically proven to deliver measurable, safe results. I am very excited to offer it as part of our anti-ageing programme at the Aesthetic Skin Centre and continue to deliver amazing results for my clients.”

Research and clinical data shows that PRP obtained from patient’s own blood is safe with very minimal risk of adverse reactions or complications. 2- 3 treatments one month apart are usually required, with documented effects lasting between 12 – 24 months. As the ageing process is ongoing, support treatments every 6 months are recommended.

Platelet Rich Plasma is your passport to youthful, naturally beautiful looking skin. Form an orderly queue and call us for a personal consultation!

AFTER TREATMENT

For more information visit us at 34 Hendon Lane, London, N3 1 TT or call 020 8346 6567.

Alternatively you can email info@aestheticskincentre.co.uk AestheticSkinCentre 64 DECEMBER2013

@ASkinCentre

shop online at www.aestheticskincentre.co.uk

We had you in mind when we planned our clinic Caspian Dental Clinic is a new private practice in Bushey with a new take on dentistry. We build your dental care around what suits you. So you can have: • an appointment at almost any time • the perfect balance of general and cosmetic dental services • time in a clinic that’s so nice, you’ll forget where you are Make an appointment now and enjoy dentistry the way you want it to be. Call us on 01923 254979 or visit our website www.caspiandentalclinic.com

Special Offer

Professional two-week home teeth whitening kit, recommended and approved by dentists only £150.00

Requires a pre-operational exam (included in cost shown). If the exam shows you have cavities these will have to be filled before you can use the kit.

Caspian Dental Clinic 22 Brunel Court | Bushey | WD19 4FR Tel. 01923 254979 Email. info@caspiandentalclinic.com

o nE d& oGAnR D E N HLOUS

L i fue ho Se & garden

Hampstead

Antique & CrAft emporium F

or over 40 years the Emporium has been a popular destination for those in search of antique and vintage treasures from the 18th Century to the present.

But how many locals realise that Hampstead is home to one of London’s last remaining indoor antique markets?

Tucked behind one of Hampstead’s most picturesque turnings, just off Heath Street and Perrin’s Court, the Emporium is an intriguing labyrinth of over 20 specialists offering Georgian, Victorian, Art Nouveau, Art Deco, MidCentury and Contemporary finds. Serious collectors and those searching for gifts or home accessories will be spoilt for choice. Where else could you find such a mind boggling range of antique and handcrafted artefacts from pearls to porcelain, dolls to door handles, paintings to pepper pots or tea sets to tiaras?

Long-established shops include silver gift specialist Hammond Leigh – great for weddings, christenings and anniversaries; Antium

Not just a Feast For the eyes, the emporium is also home to taNia’s waFFles aNd coFFee! 122

september 2012

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✱ opeN: tues to Fri

10.30am-5.30pm, sat 10.00am-6.00pm, sunday 10.30am-5.30pm ✱ where: hampstead antique & craft emporium, 12 heath street, london Nw3 6te (may also be accessed from perrin’s court) ✱ tel: 020 7794 3297 ✱ www.hampsteadantique emporium.co.uk

Antiques, a haven for enthusiasts of all things Art Deco including lighting, clocks, jewellery, perfume bottles and glass plus Edwardian furniture; The Button Lady for unusual buttons and scarves plus Treasure which offers beautiful and original bespoke jewellery, a repair service and gifts. Capricorn is known for its fine small furniture, tea

sets and crystal while The Antique Textiles Company is a must for exquisite antique quilts and textiles dating from as early as 1780 up to the 1930s. Another hugely popular shop is London Dolls’ Houses & Toys, a wonderful collection of dolls’ houses, miniatures and antique dolls which continues to delight collectors and children alike.

In recent times new dealers

increased the thevariety variety have increased of of quality quality items on offer. offer. Jewellery Jewellery lovers will will be be enthralled enthralled by the the selection selection of fine period period and and vintage pieces pieces at at Minoo (M & & A Kaae Jewellery) A Kaae Jewellery) and and Maryam.

Maryam.

WithWith MidMid-Century style Century style currently the to rage, allcurrently the rage,all head The head to The Modernist Modernist (1930 – 1970) (1930 – 1970) for vintage for vintage George Jensen George and other and otherJensen Scandinavian and Scandinavian American American silverand jewellery silver jewellery designers. designers.

Browsethrough throughaafabulous fabulous Browse mix of ofperiod periodand andvintage vintage mix collectables,including including antique collectables, silver, china, porcelain, antique silver,mirrors, china, mirrors, ceramics, ceramics, glass and glass brassand porcelain, plus costume jewellery and brass plus costume jewellery accessories at Jean, Natasha and accessories at Jean and Johnson,Johnson.

Malcolm Davey and Natasha Sarah Normanville.

For For aDe more contemporary look, visit Camilla Del look, a more contemporary Maestro’s sparkling array of visit Camilla Del Maestro’s handmade jewellery featuring sparkling array of handmade semi-precious gems semifor jewellery featuring inspiring avant-for garde designs. precious gems inspiring For quality, cotton nightwear avantgarde designs.

For seek out cotton Andreanightwear Dreamtime. quality, seek Not just a feast for the eyes, out Andrea Dreamtime. theNot Emporium is also home to just a feast for the eyes, Tania’s waffles and coffee! the Emporium is also home The dealerswaffles here are to Tania’s and coffee! knowledgeable and are friendly The dealers here which makes a visit the knowledgeable andto friendly Emporium an ainteresting which makes visit to theand welcoming Happy Emporiumexperience. an interesting antique and craftexperience. hunting in and welcoming Hampstead!

Happy hunting!

H OUS E & GA R D E N Classic Charles II Period Wassail Bowl

Solid Turned Lignum Vitae With Fine Ring Turned Details English, c.1660 9” high x 8.25” diameter Image supplied by Robert Young Antiques.

JOHN BLY ANTIQUES

What Ho for a Christmas Wassail

I

One of the Christmas Season traditions closely linked to collectable antiques is the Wassail and its Bowl.

t is known that the greeting ‘wassail’ is derived from many early Northern European languages and, however it is spelt, it roughly translates as “Good Health”.

But the Wassail is more than just a toast; it is a mixed drink containing a fair plug of alcohol, usually cider, as well as the celebration of quaffing it with a gathering of friends. This is called The Wassail in the Hall – on some occasions you all drink out of the same large bowl so its best to choose your friends carefully!

There is also the Wassail performed by strolling groups going from house to house, and the even more ancient custom of visiting the orchard to toast the health of the trees and bless the fruit; the Apple Wassail.

The large Wassail Bowl has for centuries been made of one timber in particular, lignum vitae. Nicknamed iron wood it is the heartwood of species of the genus Guaiacum and has a specific gravity of between 1.28 and 1.37, so it will not float in water.

68 DECEMBER2013

Genuine antique turned wood items of any type, particularly large bowls and cups will not be truly circular, for the timber will have shrunk and twisted slightly, but it is this very unevenness that gives such pieces their character and creates their appeal to the collector.

Some of the finest examples can be seen in the Victoria and Albert Museum in Kensington and if you are interested in learning more there are several excellent reference books under the heading of “Treen”.

The surface of a two or three hundred year old Wassail Bowl will be soft to the touch and shiny as bronze, and believe me, a sup of Wassail from one this year will make your Christmas special.

A great seasonal present too, but be prepared to pay upwards of £2000 for a good one – worth every penny. Merry Christmas.

John Bly 533 Kings Road, Chelsea john@johnbly.com.

F E AT U R E

A hidden Gem in the heart of Hertfordshire George Street nestles in the Cathedral quarter of Old St Albans. Dating back to the 17th Century it is truly charming and the home to beautiful independent shops... the ideal place to source individual presents for the important people in your life. A stroll down the street introduces you to shops with real character. It is truly a pleasure to explore the treasures that lay within!

Find something new and interesting

Perfect Timing

One of the highlights of the street is a jewellers called Galio. Their ethos forms part of the fabric of the soul of the area, it is the embodiment of the past in harmony with the present. An old building with original features sets off the contemporary décor perfectly.. and their range of Jewellery and watches continue the theme.

Galio’s watch collection is designed to appeal to the design conscious individualist. Someone who appreciates value and a choice not available on the high street. Featuring 3 British brands they like to support local talent whilst celebrating niche fine quality International names.

Short-listed for Best UK Independent Jewellery Retailer and recipients of the Retail Jeweller’s award for Innovation, GALIO is unique. Recently it has come of age with a beautiful refurbishment of their George Street store.

A new look fascia & front window accompanies the launch of a brand new Bridal Bar inside. With an impressive range of engagement rings from traditional to contemporary; there are over 500 fine quality styles available and a full bespoke service from their in-house designer.

Something for every budget, you won’t need to go anywhere else for that special day.

Established in 1992 the business is continually evolving. Specializing in fine quality modern Jewellery, Galio incorporates the best in design & quality with a friendly and welcoming atmosphere created by their team of sales consultants. Individual British boutique designers and international brands combine so you will always find something different to delight your senses.

Perfectly formed they utilise only the finest quality diamonds and coloured gemstones in a choice of limited edition, ready to wear collections and a specialist bespoke designs, all work is of the highest caliber.

70 DECEMBER2013

Brands featured include; Bell & Ross, Bremont, Frederique Constant, Graham, Jaeger Le-Coultre, Seven Friday, Gc, Bering and Eliot Brown Each brand offers a unique point of difference and brings something vibrant to the collection.

George Street’s Crowning Glory Galio has enjoyed 21 years of trading on George Street. Indeed the road is a tribute to the tenacious nature of independent retailing and the power of consumers who want individual quality and care.

Their loyal clientele appreciate a personal touch and understand the pleasure that real shopping can bring. They have discovered what a real experience it is to be looked after in a shop where people recognise and value you. The real test is that they continue to attract a new and excited following.

December opening hours Monday-Saturday 10.00am-5.00pm Sunday 11.00am-4.00pm, Closed: 25th-27th December 2013 To discover what makes Galio so different and keeps people coming back visit them at: 4 George Street, AL3 4ER or call: 01727 860329 www.galio.co.uk

ou a as y s e wish y Christm ful s happ succes a and year new

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DINING AT HANBURY MANOR AFTERNOON TEA IN OAK HALL This Winter, why not indulge with our quintessentially British Afternoon Tea. Enjoy finely cut sandwiches, homemade, freshly baked scones and dainty pastries from £25.00 per person. Why not add a chilled glass of Champagne for an additional £6.50 per person?

SUNDAY LUNCH IN OAKES GRILL Enjoy a three course Sunday buffet lunch in our contemporary Oakes Grill overlooking the PGA Championship golf course for £26.50 per person*. *Children under 10 years dine for £10; Children under 5 years dine for £5, Children under 2 years dine free of charge.

To make a booking, please call: 01920 487 722 (Lunch and dinner reservations are also available in Oakes Grill as well as our fine dining restaurant, Zodiac. Terms & conditions apply. Subject to availability. Pre-booking required. Golf and Leisure Memberships are also currently available. Please contact the Membership Manager on +44 (0) 1920 885 015 for further details.)

Hanbury Manor, A Marriott Hotel & Country Club, Ware, Hertfordshire, SG12 0SD. Telephone: 01920 487 722; Website: MarriottHanburyManor.co.uk

M OTO R S

FIRST DRIVE

MERCEDES-BENZ

SLS AMG GT

BY IAIN DOOLEY

A

sk any racing driver and they’ll tell you that you can never have too much power.

And while you might think the 20 horsepower hike for Mercedes’ SLS is small beer, the car’s new total still stands at a healthy 591. So in reality this revised SLS - now with an added ‘GT’ to its name - is plenty powerful enough for the open road.

At first glance, it’s no less an intimidating beast than when it was first launched. The only obvious external clues to this being the revised car are the red brake calipers (bronze if you opt for carbon stoppers), carbon mirror housings and darkened headlights.

74 DECEMBER2013

Once you are behind the wheel (via some theatrical motions of the car’s gull-wing doors and a quickly-learnt knack of not hitting your head while sliding into the car’s bucket seats) your view is filled with the car’s long, wide bonnet. The various controls and displays will be familiar to fans of other AMG cars, but the noise after pressing the starter button will not.

The SLS might use AMG’s 6.2-litre V8 engine, a staple unit for many years, but its raucous, hard-edged sound is the result of some serious fettling by AMG engineers.

The result is 591 horsepower for this revised motor and the promise of a limited 199mph top speed and a zero to 62mph sprint time of 3.7 seconds - 0.1 faster than the old car. With its

twin, flush tailpipes emitting everything from thunderous roars to the pops and bangs of a race-tuned competition car, the SLS not only looks the part but sounds it too.

On the road the SLS makes no attempt to disguise its performance potential. Rumbling around town at sedate speeds you know people are looking. It’s partly the car’s appearance but mainly the noise - even at low speeds there’s an urgent rumble from the car’s tailpipes.

Thankfully the SLS is anything but a beast to drive in town. You sit low down but soon get used to the cabin layout, the auto gearbox and how to best position the car for roundabouts, junctions and the like.

M OTO R S

Predictably, though, the SLS excels away from the city limits. Even if you don’t plan on exploiting its full potential, acceleration is rapid and the engine noise intoxicating. GT spec also means a fasteracting auto gearbox. And while not as quick as a dual clutch gearbox, the unit is noticeably more responsive than of old.

Still, for all the car’s hi-tech driving aids - and there are many - the experience has remained pleasingly old school and rewarding.

If the original car was famed for its sledgehammer approach to devouring Tarmac, it was also known for being a little too stiff for some of the UK’s less than perfect A and B roads. More than the occasional pothole and mid corner bump would unsettle the SLS - hardly ideal when you’re travelling at speed.

The changes to the car’s suspension set-up might be subtle but the result is a more composed experience when on the same, rubbish country roads.

Thankfully the revisions haven’t diluted the car’s manic performance and the SLS remains refreshingly analogue in a world of digitally enhanced supercars.

However, the very rough edges have

been smoothed out, allowing you to more confidently position the car ahead of a corner and put the power down earlier and for longer.

Hardened AMG fans have nothing to fear though. In the right hands the SLS GT remains a thunderous, tyre-smoking hooligan: turn off all the electronic aids and it’s amazing what this car can do.

And when you’re done shredding tyres, the SLS GT easily slips into the role of grand tourer. The ride might not be as plush as an SL, but the car’s cabin gets the full leather treatment. From the sports seats to the door linings, there’s no escape. And with the GT spec comes a more generous level of standard kit to complement the high-class cabin ambience.

FACTS AT A GLANCE MODEL

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT, from £165,030 on the road

ENGINE

6.2-litre petrol unit developing 591bhp

TRANSMISSION

7-speed automatic transmission as standard, driving the rear wheels

PERFORMANCE Maximum speed 199mph

(limited), 0-62mph 3.7 seconds ECONOMY 21.4mpg CO2 RATING 308g/km

In the SLS GT, Mercedes has created a sublime mix of monster and sophisticated long distance grand tourer. It boasts all the luxury of an SL, but packs the punch of a genuine supercar. Some rivals might deliver a more precise and clinical driving experience, but there’s something great about being able to rumble along to an old style V8 soundtrack. And forget the extra 20 horsepower, the one thing the SLS has in spades is star quality.

DECEMBER2013 75

M OTO R S

Are your wheels scuffed and damaged or just plain boring...

well now you can make them look like new

J

ohn and Amanda Tice, husband and wife business duo are bringing an alloy wheel refurbishment service with a difference to St Albans, after recently joining the nationwide franchise The Wheel Specialist. The business offers a superb alloy wheel repair and customisation service, like no other in the area. Your worn, corroded or damaged alloys will be completely transformed, with their Total whole wheel refurbishment, making them look like they have just left the showroom.

John is a keen car enthusiast, and searched everywhere for a local alloy wheel refurbishment service for his beloved Porsche. When he failed to find somewhere close that could provide the quality service he was looking for, he travelled further afield and found himself all the way in the Southampton branch of The Wheel Specialist.

Where he received a fantastic service he was so impressed with he bought the business.

The Tice’s are confident that this is a service St.Albans will love; with a clear niche market in the local area. Sadly a lot of people make the common misconception that if you scuff your alloy wheels you will need to replace them. You couldn’t be more wrong; you now have the option for a superior service, renovating your tired worn alloys, giving them a showroom finish and all for a fraction of the price of replacement wheels; a fantastic alternative for leased vehicles.

76 DECEMBER2013

Whether you are looking for a manufacturer match to get your wheels looking as good as new, or you want a unique colour change customisation, no one knows wheels better. They also offer; diamond cutting services, SMART repairs, wheel straightening, and great prices on winter tyres.

Fortunately they understand it can be a major inconvenience to be without your car, therefore they will provide you with a same day service, drop your car in in the morning and have it back the same day.

Tired of giving your loved ones the same old at Christmas, fancy giving them something unique and exciting? How about a TWS Gift Voucher for an expert alloy wheel refurbishment service, allowing the receiver to choose whatever finish they desire. This could be just restoring your wheels to their original finish or having a complete colour change. The gift voucher can be redeemed for any finish you could possibly want.

Make all of their Christmas wishes come true with a price tag you’ll love just as much!

Are your wheels in need of The Wheel Specialists TLC? Give them a call on 01727 220023 or go to www.thewheelspecialist.co.uk for an instant online quote.

M F EOTO AT URRSE

RoAd TesT

MErcEdEs-BEnz G 63 AMG

T

he motor industry has come a long way in providing more choice than ever and it couldn’t be further away from Henry Ford’s original colour palette - anything, as long as it’s black. This diversity has allowed cars like the G 63 AMG to exist. If you’re not familiar with the G-Class, or G-Wagen as it is often called, a little history is required to fully understand the planet it has just arrived from.

Back in the 1970s Mercedes-Benz produced a utility vehicle for the German military, with serious off-road capability but with on-road comfort and room for a few people. Quite sensibly, Mercedes-Benz decided that the general public might like them for the same reasons that the soldiers did, and so it went on general sale.

In many ways not a great deal has happened in the intervening quarter

98 0 DECEMB B EE R R2 02 10 31 3 7

century. Take one look at the G-Class and you can see that the design involved plenty of set squares and few elipsses; it has a relatively short wheelbase and big overhangs, pretty much the opposite of most modern cars. It also has a relatively blunt approach to aerodynamics.

Yet that is part of its huge appeal. Granted some people would describe it as ugly, but I’d go completely the other way; there is a beauty in its simplicity, that it looks as tough as a bulldog and the antithesis of modern elegance. It’s turned up even more on this AMG version too, as this adds bigger wheels and a chunky bodykit. You couldn’t mistake it for anything else, perhaps apart from when it is finished in this matte black paint and looks like an entrant in Death Race .

The delicious lunacy doesn’t end there. You can have a semi-sensible G350 CDI diesel version, but it’s still not cheap to buy and won’t crack

S FME OTO AT U R E

30mpg even if you’re really careful. So you might as well go the whole hog and plump for the AMG. Here you get the sensational 5.5-litre twin-turbocharged petrol V8 that appears in the larger AMG models, and all the brilliance that goes with it.

You won’t miss the exhaust note, as the G 63 has quad exhaust pipes that exit just behind the front wheels to give you the full aural package. Start it up and there’s a rumble of thunder, and if you blip the throttle, such is the torque on offer, the whole car rocks from side to side. Clunk the transmission into D and you’re off.

Although the G-Class has been updated comprehensively over the years, some elements are still a reminder of its age. The flat, relatively small windows provide less light than you might be used to, while the steering is relatively slow and a little vague compared to a more conventional car.

But these are small details that don’t dilute the G 63’s appeal.

In fact, it only takes about five seconds to fall for it, which is slightly longer than it takes to get to 62mph from rest. Despite weighing over two tonnes, a prolonged squeeze of the G 63’s accelerator delivers a deep-chested and relentless shove of acceleration with a spectacular growl from the engine. It all seems so incongruous that a car of this shape and weight can leave sports cars choking on their reputation, and that makes it enormous fun.

It’s not quite as spectacular through the bends, although it certainly does a good job. Stiffer AMG-specification suspension curbs excessive body roll without ruining the ride, although it’s always worth remembering you’re in a tall and heavy vehicle.

The G-Wagen is a unique vehicle. There are faster (just), more spacious and more comfortable SUVs - Mercedes-Benz themselves sell two of them - but to judge it with such cold, hard criteria doesn’t do it justice.

It’s the small details that set it apart, like the way the heavy doors shut with an indestructible thump rather than a smooth thud.

You need a fair slice of cash to be able to afford one, but it’s easy to see why they’re so popular. Nothing short of an armoured personnel carrier even comes close.

Facts at a glance Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG Engine Transmission Performance Economy Emissions

£123,975 5.5-litre petrol unit producing 544bhp and 560lb.ft of torque Seven-speed automatic driving all four wheels Top speed 130mph, 0-62mph in 5.4 seconds 20.5mpg combined 322g/km of CO2

DDE ECC EE MMBBEERR 22 00 11 33 7 99 1

H OUS E & GA R D E N

Time of your life DEALING IN ONLY QUALITY ANTIQUE CLOCKS, GÜTLIN HAS THE TIMELESS CLASSIC YOU’VE ALWAYS DREAMT ABOUT

T

ime has certainly moved on from when it could only be told by looking at the sun or the stars in the sky. Today, breaking the day into precise intervals is crucial for the operation of a modern society. Being able to tell the time is taken for granted in the 21st century, but clocks can be so much more than a cold, automated machine.

This is where antique clocks come into their own – where a combination of mechanical and aesthetic can create a piece of art.

Walking into Gütlin on the King’s Road, Chelsea, the gentle tick-tock of the many timepieces brings reassurance and peace. Housed in what was previously an art gallery, Gütlin is brimful from wall to wall with gold, silver and fine wood classic timepieces – from a rare Glashutte Second World War Luftwaffe pilots’ wristwatch to a 1720 William Barrow grandfather clock.

The owners of Gütlin, horologists John and Mark Coxhead – a father and son team, have a passion for collecting, dealing and restoring top timepieces.

Established nearly 20 years ago, they are located in an area world renowned for fine antique shops and art galleries.

Only dealing in quality clocks of the 18th and 19th centuries, and some from the 20th century, Gütlin’s speciality is French mantle and longcase clocks in mahogany, walnut and oak.

However, it caters for all tastes and styles, with watches from the 1920s to 1960s, and gold, silver, carriage, bracket and novelty clocks. It also has a small range of barometers and boulle side cabinets.

EXCLUSIVITY Starting small, buying from auctions and exhibiting at fairs, Gütlin soon built a comprehensive collection and name for themselves. ‘Not only did we sell well, but we bought well too,’ says John. ‘We’d come home with money in our

80 DECEMBER2013

pockets and a new set of clocks to restore, which was very gratifying.’

Mark says: ‘We’re engineers, with a great understanding of antique clocks, how they operate and what their values are. We are both passionate and enthusiastic about the world of clocks and want to be able to provide fine decorative items for people’s homes.’ Gütlin also specialises in Jaeger LeCoultre Atmos clocks from the 1950s to present day. A Swiss clock that uses changes in atmospheric temperature and pressure to wind itself, the power consumed by a 15 watt light bulb could run over 60 million Atmos clocks at the same time. One of the most difficult clocks a repairer will encounter, Gütlin is fully prepared to return them to the highest of operational standards. ‘They’re something that is unusual and different; made to the highest order in a period when quality counted,’ says Mark.

STANDARDS There is nothing clock wise that Gütlin will not repair. Using specialist, modern tools, it is prepared for all eventualities.

‘The tools we use mean we can do better work and do it quicker,’ says Mark. Celebrities and royalty are no strangers to Gütlin. The late Princess Margaret bought a clock as a present for a friend, and various highpowered people from the music industry have passed through its doors. It services all the Home Office, Household Cavalry and Ministry of Defence clocks.

Interior designers are also great fans of Gütlin’s offerings, returning time and time again.

As for the future, Gütlin aims to increase its upmarket stock, while still offering a first-class repair or refurbishment service. Mark concludes: ‘Working for yourself, for Gütlin, is a very privileged experience. We started with nothing, so to have built the business up over the years is a dream for us.’ www.gutlin.com

Harpenden Life 1/2 Page

Your family matters

Expert advice for difficult times Effective Solutions for Individuals Call 01727 845245 or visit www.taylorwalton.co.uk Offices at: Luton, Harpenden & St Albans

PROPERTY LIFE T H E

L A T E S T

A N D

B E S T

S P O N S O R E D

P R O P E R T I E S

O N

T H E

M A R K E T

B Y

UPHILL ROAD MILL HILL, LONDON

A substantial secluded character detached residence with a self contained guest suite/staff quarters located in the areas finest road.

GUIDE PRICE ÂŁ4,250,000 FREEHOLD DECEMBER2013 83

From Cottages to Country Estates

FOR OUR EXTENSIVE RANGE OF PROPERTIES FOR SALE, PLEASE VISIT WWW.STATONS.COM

ENFIELD

£3,650,000

Substantial Family Home Situated In Its Own Grounds of Approx. 18 Acres 5 Bedrooms 5 Bathrooms 4 Receptions Self-Contained Lodge House Off Street Parking For Several Cars

HADLEY WOOD OFFICE 020 8440 9797

RADLETT

£1,795,000

Semi Detatched 6 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms 3 Receptions Grade II Listed Set In 1.35 Acres Of Landscaped Grounds Chain Free Detached Garden Room Double Garage Extensive Gravel Driveway

RADLETT OFFICE 01923 604 321

NORTHAW

£1,495,000

5 Bedrooms 4 Receptions 4 Bathrooms Gated Detached Family Home Rear Garden In Excess Of 220 Ft Double Integral Garage Off Street Parking

BROOKMANS PARK OFFICE 01707 661144

ARKLEY

£2,000,000

Secluded Georgian Style Stucco Detached Family Residence Of Just Under 4,000 Sq Ft 6 Bedrooms 5 Bathrooms 4 Receptions Double Detached Garage Landscaped Garden To The Rear, Side And Front

TOTTERIDGE OFFICE 020 8445 3694

WHETSTONE

£1,750,000

6 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms 3 Receptions Detached Completely Modernised Throughout 136 Ft Rear Garden Carriage Driveway

TOTTERIDGE OFFICE 020 8445 3694

NEW BARNET

Guide price £1,000,000

Close To Hadley Common Completely Remodelled, Extended And Fully Refurbished 4 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms 2 Receptions Large Rear Garden Off Street Parking

BARNET OFFICE 020 8449 3383

HADLEY WOOD

£1,950,000

Detached Family Residence In Excess of 3,600 Sq Ft 6 Bedrooms 4 Receptions 4 Bathrooms Southerly Aspect Rear Garden Abutting Hadley Woods

HADLEY WOOD OFFICE 020 8440 9797

POTTERS BAR

£1,495,000

Detached Family Home Approx. 4170 Sq Ft 6 Bedrooms 3 Receptions 3 Bathrooms Integral Garage Off Street Parking For Several Cars

BROOKMANS PARK OFFICE 01707 661144

HIGH BARNET

£965,000

Detached Family Home 4 Bedrooms 2 Receptions 1 Bathroom Integral Double Garage Off Street Parking

BARNET OFFICE 020 8449 3383

SALES OFFICES AT: BARNET 020 8449 3383 TOTTERIDGE 020 8445 3694 HADLEY WOOD 020 8440 9797 BROOKMANS PARK 01707 661144 RADLETT 01923 604321 NEW HOMES SHOWCASE HADLEY GREEN 020 8441 9555 PREMIER LETTINGS HADLEY GREEN 020 8441 9796

www.statons.com

Associated Offices in Mayfair, Moscow, China, USA & Monaco

BAYVIEW HOUSE

Excellence Awards

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WINNER

YOGO HOMES

P R O P E RT Y

UPHILL ROAD

A

MILL HILL, LONDON

substantial secluded character detached residence with a self contained guest suite/staff quarters located in the areas finest road. The property is set within extensive manicured landscaped gardens with heated swimming pool and is approached via a sweeping carriage drive. As you enter through the exquisite lounge hall you immediately feel the warmth and character of this delightful family home.

The property comprises of: Three reception rooms five bedrooms kitchen/breakfast room four bathrooms (three en suite) guest cloakrooms swimming

88 DECEMBER2013

pool games room library/office gardens double garage one bedroom annex comprising living room kitchen bathroom separate entrance EPC Rating = D Guide Price ÂŁ4,250,000 Freehold

For further details please contact Savills Barnet on 020 8447 4400 or email barnet@savills.com savills.co.uk

Savills Barnet 143 High Street Barnet EN5 5UZ

020 8447 4400 barnet@savills.com

savills.co.uk

ARKLEY, hertfordshire

HADLEY WOOD, hertfordshire

4 reception rooms ø kitchen/dining room ø 7 bedrooms ø 6 bathrooms ø study ø seperate annexe ø garden ø garage ø EPC Rating = C

3 reception rooms ø 4 bedrooms ø 4 bath/shower rooms (3 en suite) ø heated swimming pool ø stpp to extend ø double garage ø EPC Rating = E

Guide £2.675 million Freehold

Guide £2.35 million Freehold

GOFFS OAK, hertfordshire

GOFFS OAK, hertfordshire

Unique barn conversion ø 4 reception rooms ø kitchen/breakfast room ø 4 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms/2 shower rooms ø 1.5 acres ø Grade II listed

3 reception rooms ø 3-4 double bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms (1 en suite) ø kitchen/breakfast room ø garden ø integral garage ø EPC Rating = E

Guide £1.45 million Freehold

Guide £775,000 Freehold

Buying or selling this winter? Talk to Savills.

Few Finer Things...

To walk the halls, the rooms. To touch.

To feel the detail. Detail that is all yours.

A home created by you. Your imagination.

Your dreams. Built to your every want, hand in hand with Octagon Bespoke.

There really are few finer things.

To find out more about how Octagon can help to build the home of your dreams, please contact John Pope on 020 8481 7500 or email johnp@octagon.co.uk

www.octagonbespoke.com

P R O P E RT Y

Martyn Gerrard

years of fulfilling dreams.

B

ack in 1964, Harold Wilson became Prime Minister, Beetlemania hit America, Nelson Mandela was sentenced to life imprisonment and the classic musical, Mary Poppins, was released. A little less well documented was the opening of the first Martyn Gerrard Estate office in Whetstone! Fifty years on, Martyn Gerrard Estate Agents have gone from strength to strength and now have ten offices covering North and North West London, from High Barnet to Kentish Town and from Hendon to Crouch End. The first properties that Martyn Gerrard Estate Agents marketed in 1964 were an “ultra modern” apartment in Barnet for £3250 and a three bedroom house in Whetstone for £4650, and their first sale was a three bedroom house in Barnet for £4950. That same property would cost well in excess of £500,000 in today’s market.

Times and the property market have certainly moved on, but one thing that has not changed is Martyn Gerrard’s approach of always being at the cutting edge of technology. Martyn Gerrard were one of the first estate agents to use colour photographs for their advertising, and they are still renowned for using the latest innovations available, to create the best and most user friendly experience for their customers, picking up numerous awards for innovation on the way. In fact, Martyn Gerrard are leading the way once again with their use of video to promote property online (see www.martyngerrard.co.uk for more details).

Martyn Gerrard is a family run business, originally set up by Martyn, and now run by his son Simon. Both recently visited the iconic Palm Court at

92 DECEMBER2013

Alexandra Palace, which they hope will be the venue of the Company’s 50th Anniversary party in May. Alexandra Palace was originally conceived as “the People’s Palace and both Martyn and Simon were delighted to be there as they admire the position that ‘Ally Pally’ represents as an integral part of the North London community – just like Martyn Gerrard.

Martyn Gerrard Estate Agents has always been proud of its traditional values of professionalism and a personal, hands on service, ensuring that Martyn Gerrard Estate Agents is a business that lives up to its mantra ‘where integrity counts’.

To celebrate fifty years of fulfilling dreams, Martyn Gerrard has a number of offers and competitions that it will be launching in 2014 including an offer for anyone born in 1964, to sell their house for 50% of their normal fee, and to arrange free removal services for every 50th instruction sold*. You can find more details of this offer and how they are celebrating in your area on their website, martyngerrard.co.uk or pop in to your local branch.

Barnet Office

Mill Hill Office

020 8440 2444

020 8906 0660

en5@martyngerrard.co.uk 4 Exchange Buildings, High Street, Barnet, EN5 5SY

nw7@martyngerrard.co.uk 109 The Broadway, Mill Hill, NW7 3TG

We love helping you

the best price achieve

for your property.

We make selling homes a pleasure.

W

inners of the Silver Award for Best Website Nationally at the 2013 Negotiator Awards.

Winners of the Bronze Award for Best Medium Estate Agency in the UK.

www.martyngerrard.co.uk

The award-winning agency . . . . . . where integrity counts.

BARNET • cRouch ENd • EAsT fiNchlEy • fiNchlEy cENTRAl • NoRTh fiNchlEy • hENdoN • kENTish ToWN • mill hill • musWEll hill • WhETsToNE

P R O P E RT Y

(CGI’S ARE FOR INDICATIVE PURPOSES ONLY)

TOTTERIDGE LONDON N20 COMING SOON

With 4,725 square feet of well proportioned and adaptable living accommodation spread over three floors, this luxury detached house provides, a master bedroom with a private terrace, four further bedrooms, three en-suites, a family bathroom, five reception rooms, including a media room, and a wine store.

An impressive two storey entrance hall, a bespoke designer kitchen/ breakfast room and a basement courtyard make this property truly unique. Set behind gates this brand new family home is now offered for sale for the first time and is available for immediate occupation.

Features ntrance Hall E Dining Room Living Room Kitchen/Diner Utility Room Study Garage Lower Ground Floor Media Room Family Room Wine Store Plant Room First Floor Landing Master Bedroom With En Suite

Bathroom And Terrace Bedroom 2 with En Suite Shower Room Bedroom 3 with En Suite Shower Room Bedroom 4 Bedroom 5 with En Suite Shower Room Family Bathroom

(CGI’S ARE FOR INDICATIVE PURPOSES ONLY)

Exterior Garden Garage Off Street Parking

Price Guide £2,750,000 Freehold

By Rail

By Tube

Finsbury Park in King’s Cross 12 minutes in 29 minutes Old Street in 21 minutes Leicester Square in 33 (from Oakleigh Park) minutes (from Totteridge & Whetstone)

94 DECEMBER2013

By Car A1 in 7 minutes M25 (junction 23) in 10 minutes

For more information about this property please contact Statons Totteridge office on 020 8445 3694 or email totteridge@statons.com.

P R O P E RT Y

HADLEY GREEN WEST HERTFORDSHIRE, EN5

P

ymlicoe House is a magnificent 6/7 bedroom listed country house of some historical significance, which has been the subject of a comprehensive and sympathetic restoration. Set in about 0.7 of an acre of mature, pretty, partly walled and landscaped gardens and grounds. Thought to be the oldest property in Hadley, this magnificent country house of some historical significance, has been the subject of a comprehensive and sympathetic restoration project over a number of years to create this fine period residence. It is now presented in a beautiful condition, with numerous period features and detailing including exposed brickwork and beams, ornate plasterwork and cornicing and nine original working fireplaces.

Features pacious Reception Hall S Drawing Room Dining Room Conservatory Library Kitchen/Breakfast Room Utility Room First Floor Landing Master Bedroom

edroom 2 B Bedroom 3 Bedroom 4 Family Bathroom Shower Room Second Floor Landing Bedroom 5 Bedroom 6 Bedroom 7

Detached Garage with Floor Above Off Road Parking for 6 cars Mature, pretty, partly walled and landscaped gardens and grounds of Approx. 0.7 Acres

History Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries the house had many noble and interesting owners including, it is believed, Lord Wrotham (as part of Wrotham Park), later inherited by the Earl of Stafford. In about 1860 the house was owned by Captain Love (a military man) and then in 1884 by the Rev. A J Church who wrote the Chantry Priest of Barnet, an interesting story of the battle of Barnet, whilst living in Pymlicoe House.

Location Set in the sought after and picturesque area of Hadley Green close to the duck pond is this beautiful home. Hadley Green is just a few minutes’ walk from High Barnet’s bustling shopping centre and Old Fold Manor golf course is also just a short stroll away. The closest over ground stations are Hadley Wood and New Barnet both are approximately 2 miles away. High Barnet underground station (Northern Line) is approximately 1 mile away. The area also boasts many renowned state and private schools.

Price Guide £P.O.A Freehold For more information about this property please contact Statons Barnet office on 020 8449 3383 or email barnet@statons.com.

DECEMBER2013 95

Season’s greetings from Solutions inc.

0% free credit on your new Mac*

The Maltings Shopping Centre, St Albans, AL1 3NL www.solutions-inc.co.uk | Tel: 01727 894849 0% APR representative, subject to status. *Terms & Conditions: 1) 0% Interest Free offer starts on 16th November 2013 and ends on 28th December 2013. 2) Solutions inc reserves the right to change this offer at any time. 3) The minimum order value to take up this offer is ÂŁ849. 4) The transaction to be paid for with the ten months interest free finance agreement can only contain Apple products. Non-Apple products must be purchased separately. 5) The promotion is limited to one claim per person. 6) The promotion excludes the purchase of Mac mini, and any new Apple products that may be released during the promotion period. 7) The promotion is limited to qualifying Macs only, the Finance Agreement cannot be used to pay for iPad or iPod, even if bought at same time as a Mac.

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