St Albans Life Magazine July 2014

st albaNS LIFE

st albans LIFE issue 94

July 2014

CLASSICS ON THE COMMON GARDENS OF THE ROSE

w w w. t h e l i f e m a g a z i n e s . c o m

KNEBWORTH HOUSE SCULPTURE EXHIBITION

Auberge du Lac

SUMMER AT HERTFORD HOUSE

WWW.THELIFEMAGAZINES.COM

Our exclusive Summer dining competition offers a sublime 6-course tasting menu with a bottle of Moët Ice Impérial for one lucky reader and their guest

THE QUALITY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE july 2014

L O C A L LI F E | H IS T O R Y | E V E N T s | B E A U T Y | H O M E & G A R D E N | p ro p e rt y

Welcome to our July issue...

This summer there are activities and events to inspire, amuse and fascinate visitors of all ages at Butterfly World, Hertfordshire. Children can get involved in one of many fantastic crafty activities, including making seed bombs, bug hotels, junk bugs, cress caterpillars and sand art. Our youngest visitors can enjoy storytelling each week and even step aboard the all-new world-on-wheels of storytelling Once Upon A Bus. For adults, join expert John Humphrey on a photography workshop or course, or enjoy an evening of live music as Five Star Swing return for the third year for a picnic concert under the stars.

The perfect summer celebration, with music, Spitfire, cannons, cavalry and fireworks, returns to Hatfield House on Saturday 19 July 2014. In addition to a full orchestral programme of sublime classical music, this unique open-air picnic concert features a carefully choreographed Spitfire aerial display, ground shaking live cannon fire, breath-taking cavalry displays and a stunning firework finale, all set in the beautiful Queen Elizabeth Oak Field in the leafy parkland of Hatfield House.

Set in 250 acres of rolling Hertfordshire countryside, Knebworth House is one of England’s most colourful stately homes. It is remarkable for having been in the Lytton family for more than 500 years. Its romantic gothic exterior complete with turrets, domes and gargoyles conceals a much older Tudor red brick house.

Whether it is al fresco dining in summer, lakeside, or an intimate environment in the winter months, Auberge du Lac provides the right mood for every occasion. With a beautiful lounge, picturesque terrace and a host of tastefully decorated private dining rooms, capable of seating from 2 to 30 guests, the restaurant regularly caters for private dinners, ladies lunches, exclusive weddings, birthday parties and other celebrations.

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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Spread your wings this summer at Butterfly World

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his summer there are activities and events to inspire, amuse and fascinate visitors of all ages at Butterfly World, Hertfordshire.

Children can get involved in one of many fantastic crafty activities, including making seed bombs, bug hotels, junk bugs, cress caterpillars and sand art. Our youngest visitors can enjoy storytelling each week and even step aboard the all-new world-on-wheels of storytelling Once Upon A Bus. For adults, join expert John Humphrey on a photography workshop or course, or enjoy an evening of live music as Five Star Swing return for the third year for a picnic concert under the stars.

Family events and activity highlights include Junk bugs Create aliens and space creatures using materials destined for the recycling bin. Ages 3+ (£3.50)

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Popdance Join a day-long workshop with Popdance and learn fantastic dance routines to pop music that you love. Ages 5-11 (£21 entry to Butterfly World included, advance booking required at www. popdance.co.uk/butterfly-world).

Storytelling Let us bring your favourite stories to life using puppets and movement.

Ages 18 months – 5 years (Free) Dizzy Wizzy’s Amazing Butterfly Show Local entertainer Dizzy Wizzy will take children on a nature walk around the gardens and return for an interactive story to get their imaginations running wild. Ages 3+ (£2.50) Bug Hotels Use recyclable materials from our gardens, such as old fence panels, cardboard, leaves and bamboo to create luxurious nests for the bugs in your garden. Ages 3+ (£4, advance booking required)

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Once Upon a Bus All aboard the new world-on-wheels of storytelling! Step onto this magical double decker bus and be transported into your favourite story.

Ages 2+ (£4.50) Ventura Animal Encounters Join rare breed sanctuary Ventura Events to touch and learn about and exotic creatures such as snakes, tortoises, skunks and owls. Ages 2+ (£2) Bee Zone Join local bee expert Eileen Remnant to learn about the amazing role honey bees play in nature and take part in a bee-related craft activity to take home. Ages 3+ (£2.50)

From Monday 14 July visitors will be able to watch these infamous creatures set about building a new home for their queen. Last December, in a freak accident, rogue ants from the previous colony chewed through an electrical cable to their display tank. The electric shock waves passed through the labyrinth-like chambers of the colony and killed the queen, which led to the death of over a million ants in the following months. In order to find a new colony, Butterfly World commissioned expert Andrew Stephenson from Zoologica Exhibito to search the rainforests of Trinidad for a new queen.

Andrew works closely with the local communities and pays the farmers not to kill the ant colonies so he can collect them before crop planting season when they otherwise would have been exterminated as pests.

Family Fun Day Monday 25 August Join in a fun packed day with activities for all the family including a butterfly treasure hunt, storytelling, butterfly talks, insect handling, environmental workshops, and children’s entertainment. All ages (additional charges for some activities)

“We were so saddened by the loss of the colony” comments Louise Hawkins, ecologist at Butterfly World. “In the four years they were here, they were one of our most popular exhibits, even though they were always getting into mischief and have escaped more than once! We are now so pleased to welcome these ants into their new home. Once they are settled we will be encouraging them to use a new rope system so our visitors will be able to watch them up close as they cut and leaves back to their nest. We hope that within 18 months they will be back to being the largest colony of leafcutter ants in the country, providing a fascinating learning experience for thousands of visitors and school children every year.”

Summer jazz with Five Star Swing Saturday 23 August 19.30 Local band Five Star Swing joins Butterfly World for the third year at a picnic concert on this Bank Holiday summer evening. Seating is under cover and you are welcome to bring food and drink, although the Nectar House Cafe will offer a full bar facility serving hot and cold drinks. Five Star Swing has appeared on stage, TV and jazz festivals throughout the world and never fails to provide a fantastic night of live music. (£12.50, £10.50 for Butterfly World members) Photography workshops at Butterfly World Join John Humphrey, Fellow of the Royal Photographic Society and author of the book ‘Close-up and Macro Photography’, on individual workshops designed to develop your skills in nature and wildlife photography.

The Leafcutter ants are back!

Following the tragic demise of the UK’s biggest leaf cutter ant colony earlier in the year, Butterfly World is unveiling a new colony of leaf cutter ants straight from the rainforests of Trinidad, in time for the summer holidays.

At Butterfly World you can spend the day walking amongst hundreds of tropical butterflies in the tropical butterfly house, watch the leaf cutter ant colony hard at work in Ant World, and learn about or even hold stick insects, cockroaches and giant snails in the Insect Study Centre. Be inspired by the Designer Gardens to attract wildlife to your own garden, wander through the wildflower meadow, and let the kids run wild in our natural children’s play area with willow tunnels, wooden climbing frames, sand pits and giant slides. Or simply relax in the sunshine and enjoy a selection of hot and cold food, drinks, cakes and ice creams in the Nectar Cafe and shop.

Butterfly World is open daily 10.00-17.00 and is located on Miriam Lane, Chiswell Green, AL2 3NY. For more information visit www.butterflyworldproject.com (schedules may be subject to change, please check website for latest information)

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The 14th Annual Hatfield House

Battle Proms

Open Air Concert

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he perfect summer celebration, with music, Spitfire, cannons, cavalry and fireworks, returns to Hatfield House on Saturday 19 July 2014. In addition to a full orchestral programme of sublime classical music, this unique open-air picnic concert features a carefully choreographed Spitfire aerial display, ground shaking live cannon fire, breath-taking cavalry displays and a stunning firework finale, all set in the beautiful Queen Elizabeth Oak Field in the leafy parkland of Hatfield House.

This year the thrilling and ever popular mounted skill-at-arms display by an expert cavalry troop will be carried out in WW1 regalia to mark the 100th anniversary of the start of the First World War, just one of many elements in the 2014 programme that will pay homage to this important historical anniversary.

Battle Promenaders will also be treated to the Battle Proms signature piece – Beethoven’s Battle Symphony – performed as he intended with the full complement of 193 live firing cannon providing a thunderous percussion! Conducted by Douglas Coombes and performed by the New English Concert Orchestra, the programme will also include soul-stirring classical favourites suited to the grandeur of the historic settings. From Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture (which also gets the ‘Battle Proms treatment’ of live cannon fire) to a sing-along finale packed with all the prom favourites such as Jerusalem, Land of Hope and Glory and Rule Britannia.

Much loved Songs of Praise presenter and celebrated compère, Pam

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Rhodes will be hosting the event, there will be a virtuoso performance of Weber’s Clarinet Concerto No. 1 as young clarinettist Jordan Black makes his first Battle Proms appearance. We are delighted to welcome back superb soprano Denise Leigh who will perform enchanting arias before bringing the finale to life - and the crowd to their feet – as the spectacular firework display lights up the summer sky.

The Battle Proms is proud to support Combat Stress: the Veterans’ Mental Health Charity, which specialises in helping veterans of the Armed Forces and Merchant Navy with psychological injuries caused through service to their country. Over recent years a phenomenal £166,250 has been raised by audience contributions and contributions from the Battle Proms concert profits for this important cause. “We are delighted to be supporting Combat Stress once again this year” said Emma Dexter, Marketing Manager for The Battle Proms, “particularly since the organisation was founded 95 years ago as a direct result of World War One, the start of which is very much in all our minds this year.”

Widely regarded as one of the most exciting summer proms concerts in the country, this is an event that fans return to year after year, to enjoy a memorable night out with friends or for a significant celebration.

Tickets are currently £35 for adults and £17 for children. Adult tickets on the day are £40 subject to availability.

For more information, or to book tickets for this spectacular night out, visit www.battleproms.com or call 01432 355 416. You can also purchase tickets locally from selected Tourist Information Centres.

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Folk by the

oak

Guitar Great Richard Thompson and Brit Award winner Beth Orton complete the line-up for Folk by the Oak 2014

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olk by the Oak returns for its 7th annual festival on Sunday 20 July at Hatfield House, and critically acclaimed guitarist Richard Thompson will be joining their ‘line-up of headliners’ for this one day festival of captivating music featuring some of the world finest folk musicians.

Richard, named one of Rolling Stone’s Top 20 Guitarists of All Time, is one of the world’s most critically acclaimed and prolific songwriters.

Having co-founded the groundbreaking group Fairport Convention as a teenager in the 60’s Richard and his mates virtually invented British Folk Rock.

Also joining the line-up is Brit Award winner Beth Orton.

Known for her “folktronica” sound, which mixes elements of folk and electronica, Beth was initially recognised for her collaborations with William Orbit and the Chemical Brothers in the mid-1990s. With the release of the albums Central Reservation (1999) and the 2002 UK top 10 album Daybreaker, Beth developed a devoted fan base, many of whom will be delighted with this rare opportunity to see her at a UK festival this summer.

Many of you will have heard folk world favourite Seth Lakeman feature in the recent BBC Radio 2 D-Day anniversary concert, and Folk by the Oak are delighted to confirm he will also be once again gracing their stage this year. Widely regarded as the UK’s foremost folk singer songwriter, Seth has been credited with breaking down perceptions and barriers often associated with folk music and its acceptance in the mainstream. Expect a captivating, energetic and undeniably compelling live show from award-winning Seth and his superbly talented band.

Also on the Main stage, Kathryn Tickell (BBC Folk Awards Musician of the Year 2013) will perform with her folk-classical ensemble ‘The Side’, while The Elizanbethan Session (a unique set, bringing together 8 artists including BBC Radio 2 Folk Singer of the Year Bella Hardy) 1 0 j u ly 2 0 1 4

will perform the epilogue to a very special project. Commissioned by Folk by the Oak and the English Folk Dance and Song Society (EFDSS) The Elizabethan Session project created new music inspired by the Elizabethan era and recently premiered to a packed house and rave reviews at the Old Palace in Hatfield.

Two stunning duos complete the line-up: Welsh harpist Catrin Finch and Senegalese kora player Seckou Keita, winners of the prestigious fRoots Album of the Year and nominated for two BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards promise a heavenly performance, while the jewel-like voice of Josienne Clarke and Ben Walker’s musical tact and mastery of the guitar produce another a compelling act and a fine addition to the Folk by the Oak line up for 2014.

Now a firmly established feature of Folk by the Oak, the Acorn Stage has grown! This year it will be bigger and better platform for a new generation of folk musicians, featuring Paper Aeroplanes, Keston Cobblers’ Club, Jaywalkers, Salt House, Maz O’Connor and the London Youth Folk Ensemble.

The Folk by the Oak team continue their tradition of ensuring this is a great day out for the whole family, with an ever expanding craft tent, workshops, children’s activities, storytelling, circus skills, and real ale bar, music stalls, vintage stalls, recycled gifts and delicious food. And they continue to encourage you to bring your own food and drink along and make yourself at home. It’s a compact and leafy site with one main stage so you can pick a grassy spot, kick back and enjoy a whole day of top quality live music.

Advance tickets are £36 for adults (£40 on the day subject to availability), children aged 5-15 are £17 at all times (under 5s are free). Advance family passes for 2 adults and 2children are just £98 (not available on the day). For information and to book tickets: www.folkbytheoak.com

c o m p et i t i o n

WIN ONE OF 3

FABULOUS YAMAHA PDX-B11 WIRELESS SPEAKERS with ORTONS AUDIO:VISUAL Featuring Bluetooth technology for easy, instant wireless connection to your smartphone, MP3 player, table or computer! RRP £120

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ollowing Rock at the Castle on Sunday 3rd August in the grounds of Hertford Castle the Hertford Music Festival promises an exciting climax with the MUSICAL MYSTERY TOUR. Organised by Festival Director Kev Saunders and his dedicated crew, the event comprises some 400 musicians and DJs playing every musical style from rock to reggae, folk and funk to punk, classical and jazz live at some 30 pubs, clubs, music venues, restaurants and street corners (as well as Hertford Museum and Hertford Library) on Bank Holiday Sunday 24th August from lunchtime to bedtime. In this, the event’s ninth year, Kev Saunders is hoping to showcase even more local talent with the help of the festival’s sponsors, old and new.

‘Last year, the town was buzzing! It was like a miniature Notting Hill Carnival, bringing thousands of people into the town,’ says Kev. ‘Pretty much every venue was packed to the rafters and many of the pubs actually ran out of beer! ‘Several venues have already confirmed they’re taking part this year and I’m delighted to announce that Craig Ravenscroft of Castle House, Hertford (who’ll be taking part in the festival in a big way) is this year’s headline sponsor for the Musical Mystery Tour. I’m already working with Craig on a terrific line-up for the Castle House stage, which will be outside in the venue’s courtyard and it’s going to be the perfect way to launch the newly refurbished building, which is already operating as a guest house, as a superb weddings and celebrations venue.

‘I’m very pleased to announce that pretty much all last year’s venues are already on signed up, and I’m even more pleased to welcome some new ones and well as stalwart sponsors such as Call print, Hertford, Couvre-Feu Fire Consulting, Steve Beeston Photography, River City Studios, Hertford Guitar Studio and Hertford Town Council,’ says Kev. ‘Our latest sponsor is specialist HiFi dealer Ortons Audio Visual, of Old Cross, Hertford who’s teamed up with YAHAMA to contribute to the event’s costs and add to the

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excitement with a terrific promotional competition!

About Ortons Here at Ortons Audio:Visual we have over 25 years experience in the audio visual market and pride ourselves on our local store style with friendly, knowledgeable staff and top class customer service.

We stock only the market leading prestigious brands including; Sonos, B&W, Bose, Panasonic, Yamaha, Monitor Audio, Rega, Naim Audio to name but a few. With state of the art showrooms, installation experts and demonstration facilities displaying the latest home theatre systems, audio setups, multiroom audio/visual and custom integration, Ortons is a destination for all your audio visual needs.

Why not pop in and see us for a NO Obligation, FREE installation quote at any one of our stores located in Hertford and Hitchin or call us for expert advice on your requirements. Alternatively, check out our website by visiting where all our products are for sale via mail order and our sales staff are always on hand to answer any queries you may have.

Competition Question What is the address of Ortons Audio:Visual in Hertford?

Please email your answer to competition@fishmediagroup.co.uk by 20th August. Good luck! www.hertfordmusicfestival.co.uk www.ortonsaudiovisual.com

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darren baker Racing Stallion

Too good to be true?

Occasionally you come across artists whose works are simply so real, they look like a photograph. We introduce you to three artists whose exceptional attention to detail has mesmerised collectors for years, and which has made their work highly sought after.

Darren Baker

be showcasing previously unseen works for collectors to acquire.

Rubbing shoulders with celebrities and royalty has become part of life for British artist Darren Baker. For over a decade he has been the official artist to the Professional Football Association, creating commissions for Ronaldo, Kenny Dalglish, Steven Gerrard and Rio Ferdinand to name but a few.

John Mark Gleadow

2011 was to prove a pivotal year when he received a letter from Buckingham Palace, inviting him to become the official portrait artist to Her Majesty The Queen. An honour of this magnitude comes to but a few and after several sittings with Queen Elizabeth II his superb portrait was unveiled by Princess Anne in autumn 2011 at a commemorative service at Westminster Abbey.

The following year saw him chosen as the official artist for the 2012 Olympic Games.

Baker painted scenes from the Olympic village alongside works of the athletes themselves.

With a growing base of admirers and enthusiasts, Baker will be exhibiting at Gallery Rouge later this year (November 19th to 25th) where he will 1 4 m ay 2 0 1 4

This quiet and unassuming American artist had already achieved gallery representation even before he received his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. Renowned for his skill as a draughtsman, Gleadow has forged a formidable reputation for both still life and portraiture works. His work is even more remarkable when one learns of his colour-blindness, and the impact this has in the development of his vibrant works.

His most recent works fuse the worlds of portraiture within that of literature. Book spines are used to communicate a wide selection of themes; some works centre on music, food and travel whilst others are intentionally varied to drive dialogue in a multitude of directions.

Due to the level of detail involved, each painting takes around four months to create, which means original works are in scarce supply and highly prized.

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John Mark Gleadow Classic Rock II

Marc Esteve Born in the small Spanish village Alcoy in Alicante, Esteve has always been mesmerised by the light of the Mediterranean Sea. His works create real moments on canvas; folded fabric, inanimate objects, stone beaches, and the ever present Mediterranean Sea and its changing moods. Esteve fully understands how to grasp the feel of brightness and shadows in his artworks.

Having held critically acclaimed exhibitions throughout Spain, Esteve is arguably an artist who is destined for greater success. With increasing exposure around the world, Gallery Rouge is delighted to be working with this exciting talented artist.

If you would like to see a wider portfolio of quality artwork, or would like professional help and assistance in identifying art for your home or office, visit the Gallery Rouge studios in both St Albans and Harpenden.

Alternatively visit their website at www.galleryrouge.co.uk Gallery Rouge is a leading UK gallery servicing clients throughout Hertfordshire, North London and the Home Counties. The gallery aims to source, secure and exhibit some of the finest art from around the world. Representing a diverse collection of work from an ever increasing portfolio of artists, the gallery continually strives to offer the highest levels of service and support.

Why not visit to experience the difference!

Marc esteve Ocean Jewels II

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

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Vienna Festival Ballet

Vienna Festival Ballet wrapped up their Spring tour of the UK in Radlett at the beginning of June. They have a strong relationship with the Radlett Centre, most years returning for both their Spring and Autumn seasons to adoring audiences – a lot of them regulars. Audience member Julie Sturrock called the performance of Cinderella, ‘magical’, and another audience member, Sharon Russell says it was ‘amazing! Looking forward to seeing them again in September.’

Sitting in on their get in, they’re in high spirits for the last shows of the tour. They have class on stage to stretch and warm themselves up, which is a show of technique I’d pay to see in itself. They have this class before every show, and in the weeks building up to rehearsals. I think it’s easy to forget the athletic regime these dancers have to adhere to every day, when you’re watching them effortlessly gliding across the stage in pretty costumes.

Even though the tour is coming to a close, ballet mistress Emily Hufton doesn’t let them get away with anything, constantly calling out ways in which to improve technique with a minute change in posture or balance. It’s evidently this attention to detail which has kept the company going strong for the past 34 years.

But we mustn’t forget they’re not just dancers, but actors. Emily-Joy Smith explained, ‘the Spring tour for me was a great challenge, having major roles in both Cinderella and Swan Lake. The hardest part for me was going from one character to another, the Fairy Godmother in Cinderella and White Swan in Swan Lake meant I had completely different characters to work with for each ballet.’ Amongst the company which toured this Spring, we know that principal dancer Emily Joy-Smith, who danced the Fairy 1 6 j u ly 2 0 1 4

Godmother in Cinderella, will return for the Autumn tour in role of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Emily-Joy Smith currently features as the front of their marketing campaign, posing in the pink Sugar Plum Fairy tutu which will surely appeal to young ballerinas.

‘I’m looking forward to the Christmassy feeling you get with The Nutcracker, and of course the amazing costumes, and the music – there’s just so much to look forward to.’

Rehearsals for their Autumn Tour of the Nutcracker begin in September. The enchanting tale of The Nutcracker is one of the world’s best loved ballets with music by Tchaikovsky. The story centres around Clara and her nutcracker doll, which magically transforms into a princeply soldier. Their adventures see Clara and the Nutcracker doll combat the Mouse King, and join the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier on a wonderful journey through a shimmering winter land scene to a Kingdom made entirely of sweets. It’s sure to be a Christmas treat for all the family.

VFB return to Radlett on Saturday 1st November with two shows of The Nutcracker at the Radlett Centre.

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Welcome to Water Mill House Care Home

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ater Mill House is a new purpose-built care home, combining excellent facilities, stylish dĂŠcor and a highly trained team of people, genuinely passionate about caring for others. Our approach is one of compassion.

We are committed to upholding the utmost dignity and respect for everyone in our care.

The most profound and meaningful care comes from being interested in others. From there everything else flows naturally.

We are all different, whatever our ages. We all have different expectations, likes and dislikes as well as different personal needs with regards to wellbeing. At Water Mill House we are interested in the whole person. That is why we ensure our carers not only have the expertise to care well, but also that they have the heart for it. We are always interested in providing the right care for our residents - we really get to know each person and focus our efforts around the things that will make them contented with life.

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This isn’t just about achieving excellence, it is a calling to do more, and be more, for our residents - because in our view, that is what they deserve.

Moving your loved one’s life into a new home can be daunting and emotionally challenging and our team goes out of its way to help them settle in. We begin by finding out as much as possible about those coming in to our care, and ask for your help in doing this. We believe that by taking the time to understand each individual, their likes and dislikes, and their life stories, we can provide personal care with a real difference.

This valuable information can help us specifically tailor the environment to their needs.

For more information or to speak to someone about arranging a visit to Water Mill House, please call us on 01442 899000 or email info@carebase.org.uk. www.carebase.org.uk

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Bartering brings in business at the White Hart Hotel, St Albans The White Hart Hotel in Hertfordshire is expanding its facilities thanks to modern-day business bartering

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ocated in the heart of St Albans, the historical 500-year old hotel joined Bartercard, the UK’s largest business-tobusiness trade exchange, in 2013 and has since noted a marked improvement in cash flow and spare capacity, resulting in improved onsite facilities for its customers.

Through bartering with members of the Bartercard network, the hotel has introduced all new in-house printing facilities courtesy of the Digital Office, providing employees with the tools to print menus and marketing materials efficiently and at a significantly reduced cost.

The hotel has also benefited from a new state of the art telephone system from John Bradbury Company Telecom, which includes new phones for every room and has recently expanded to using the service to source cleaning materials from Muscat Enterprises, soaps from Simply Soaps, beers for the hotel bar from Brentwood Brewery and fruit juices from Fruto Del Espritu.

The hotel is also working with Bartercard member, TaxAssist Accountants to ensure all accounts and tax returns are fully up-to-date.

Ross McBeath, owner of the White Hart Hotel, said: “We joined Bartercard in September 2013 and haven’t looked back. The service has enabled us to use our spare capacity at the hotel, offering accommodation to Bartercard members that otherwise would have

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been left unoccupied. This has also resulted in us purchasing various items including beers for the bar, cleaning products and paint for general maintenance around the property from other members.”

I would recommend bartering to any business looking to preserve cash flow and bottom line profits – We are certainly delighted to have joined the service.”

Bartercard enables businesses to use their spare capacity to source the goods and services required to run or expand their business. It connects new customers with its members and provides an interest free line of credit for businesses looking for ways to protect their cash reserves. This is particularly valuable at a time when banks are being criticised for refusing to lend to SMEs. Darren Vidler, Brokerage Director for Bartercard Hertfordshire, said: “It has been such a great experience working with the White Hart Hotel. As soon as Ross recognised the potential of business bartering and the opportunity to sell what would have otherwise been empty rooms, the hotel has gone from strength to strength. It’s great to see one of our newer members working with businesses across the network to fulfil its inventory needs and achieve expansion plans.

The White Hart Hotel is a great example of just how effective business bartering can be and we’re excited to continue working with them and connecting with new members.”

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

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Stag & Hind

by Tessa Pullen

Link

by Felicia Fletcher

Crocodiles

by Helen Denerley

Open Air Sculpture Exhibition opens

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et in 250 acres of rolling Hertfordshire countryside, Knebworth House is one of England’s most colourful stately homes. It is remarkable for having been in the Lytton family for more than 500 years. Its romantic gothic exterior complete with turrets, domes and gargoyles conceals a much older Tudor red brick house.

Knebworth achieved fame in Victorian times as the home of the novelist, playwright and politician Edward Bulwer Lytton author of the words “The pen is mightier than the sword”. Other notable family members included Constance Lytton, the Suffragette and her father, Robert Lytton, the Viceroy of India who proclaimed Queen Victoria Empress of India at the Great Delhi Durbar of 1877. The House has been visited by famous

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figures such as Queen Elizabeth 1, Charles Dickens, Winston Churchill and many more.

There have been gardens at Knebworth House since at least the 17th Century, but the present layout dates largely from the Edwardian era.

The architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, who married into the Lytton family, simplified the ornate beds and statuary of the Victorian garden with lawns and avenues of pollarded lime trees.

Popular features of the 28 acres now include a maze, the organically run walled kitchen garden, the Gertrude Jekyll Herb Garden and the Dinosaur Trail, where 72 life-sized dinosaurs can be found grazing amongst the rhododendrons and the redwoods. Exploring the woodland paths, children can learn about the T-Rex, the Woolly Mammoth and other fascinating pre-historic creatures.

Open Air Sculpture at Knebworth is an exciting new sculpture exhibition taking place in the idyllic setting of the gardens of Knebworth House which runs until Sunday

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Zebra

by Sally Matthews

Fend

by Luke Dickinson

Peacock

by Geoffrey Dashwood

in the Gardens of Knebworth House 31st August 2014. The exhibition has been curated by British Art Portfolio, their first sculpture show to be held in the Garden.

The show features the work of 19 contemporary sculptors each displaying two or three pieces using materials such as bronze, wood, marble, stone, copper and stainless steel in a wide range of subjects and styles to suit all budgets.

In choosing the sculptors British Art Portfolio has incorporated established names alongside inspiring new talent to create a show that will enlighten, provoke, excite and charm the visitor.

The gardens at Knebworth were largely influenced by Sir Edwin Lutyens who married into the Lytton family in 1897. He created a series of ‘garden rooms’ each with a different feel, which are effectively highlighted by the skilful placing of each sculpture.

‘The gardens are the perfect place for

sculpture and it is exciting to introduce man-made art into the landscape, as differing areas of the gardens offer new surprises round every corner’ says Amanda Lowther of British Art Portfolio.

Martha Lytton Cobbold, MD of Lytton Enterprises commented, “We are delighted to be working with British Art Portfolio. The sculptures look superb in the Gardens and I’m sure our visitors will enjoy them – there is such a wide range of subjects; from running cheetahs and a very majestic zebra to intriguing abstract forms.”

There is no additional charge to visit the exhibition, which is included in the Gardens & Park admission ticket. See www. knebworthhouse.com for more information, and to view the online catalogue for the exhibition. j u ly 2 0 1 4 2 3

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IT DOESN’T GET ANY T

he Fish Media management were selected from a pool of premium media by Relevance, the PR agency in Monaco, and invited to the Monaco Grand Prix to get a taste of French Riviera lifestyle. On the Saturday of the Grand Prix qualifications, Rory and I got up and set off on a weekend to remember.

We were fast tracked through Gatwick Airport by the excellent No. 1 Traveller to get to our Monarch flights. The flight to Nice was a breeze and 45 minutes after hitting the tarmac, we were in the prestigious Paddock Lounge overlooking the qualification.

The Paddock Lounge is part of the 5-star luxury Hermitage Hotel, one of Monte-Carlo SBM’s delightful hotels in the Principality (www.montecarlosbm.com).SBM provides an exclusive F1 concept with a terrace which overlooks the superyachts of Monaco’s Port Hercule. Contact Fraser Yachts brokerage house for yacht services (www.fraseryachts.com).

“The Paddock Lounge is part of the 5-star luxury Hermitage Hotel, one of Monte-Carlo SBM’s delightful hotels in the Principality” For Q2 we headed over for lunch at the famous Café de Paris. Our concierge, Hélène, from Monte-Carlo SBM led us up a back stairway to avoid the crowds and we were soon seated in the shade of the Monte-Carlo Casino, overlooking the casino turn.

A “once in a lifetime” weekend in Monaco to watch the Monaco Grand Prix 2014 in luxurious style…….

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Lunch was an excellent buffet accompanied by an exciting side-dish of the controversial Lewis Hamilton battle with Nico Rosberg to secure pole position. The service was simply excellent and the company great. The Café de Paris is a splendid place to catch up on what is happening around the entire track on a large screen.

We moved on to the Hotel de Paris terrace for Q3, overlooking the Massanet corner.

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BETTER THAN THIS Watching the drivers pull through the gears from the long straight and head into this corner was hair-raising and really every reason why you should come to the Grand Prix in Monaco.

up white chocolate bavarois and key limes in a strawberry cup with fresh raspberry. Each course was accompanied by an exquisite complementary wine, expertly selected by Grand Cros (www.grandcros.com).

Before we knew it, we were whisked away in the chauffeured black Mercedes to get a taste of the French Riviera. Our first stop was a penthouse on the 34th and 35th floors in the Château Perigord, offered for sale

by La Costa Properties Monaco luxury real estate (www.lacosta-propertiesmonaco.com/en/), which is the leading agency in the Principality with a stunning portfolio of prime properties. This dream penthouse overlooks Monte-Carlo with panoramic sea views, from a commanding position.

French Riviera property expert, Philip Weiser gave us the benefit of his 30 years real estate experience on the Cote D’Azur with an overview of the region’s property market. Sleep was easy to come by under the sumptuous covers of the Sylviane beds and with race day upon us, we set off for Monte-Carlo.

Moving away from the bright lights, we headed through towards Valbonne, a quaint Provençal Roman village. Our party was welcomed at the Domaine de la Sylviane (www.domaine-la-sylviane.com), a delightful ancient monastery available to rent with Carlton International (www. carlton-international.com/en). We were accommodated in the former monks’ cells, now comfortably converted into cosy, Provençal style bedrooms.

We toasted our beautiful surroundings with a delicious light and bright champagne selected by Ayala(www.champagne-ayala. fr/en). Chef Emmanuel Sofonea (www. unchefchezvous.com) provided scrumptious toasts with salmon before moving on to a gourmet four course meal with amazing produce and ingredients provided by Froggy Gourmet (www.froggygourmet.fr).

Finding enough energy after this back-to-back day, we moved up to the bar where we lapped

where the pool party had already started and champagne was duly sprayed. A very memorable and almost regal 48 hours in Monte-Carlo.

Monarch fly to Nice from London Gatwick.

Flights London Gatwick start at £32.99 each way. Please note that taxes and fees apply and customers are reminded that checked baggage, extra leg room seats and on board meals should be booked in advance for the best price. (www.monarch.co.uk).

“It doesn’t get better than this” cried one of the journalists in our party. It was a truly apt comment as we were introduced to THE spot of the Grand Prix by Claudia Batthyany: The Fairmont Monte Carlo overlooking the most famous bend in the world. The Grand Prix track view room accommodates up to 12 people. Four night packages start at 6,700 Euros (www.fairmont.com/monte carlo).

Philip, the executive chef at Nobu, Fairmont Monte-Carlo arrived and dosed us with champagne and delightful canapés. Once the race started with Nico Rosberg in pole, the engine noise echoed around the skyscrapers of Monte-Carlo making the experience almost deafening. One feels quite almighty watching the most skilled drivers on the planet racing the most advanced human driving machines up high with a glass of champagne in hand.

After an ecstatic couple of hours of speed,crashes and intense competition, Nico Roseberg won with Lewis Hamilton right behind. We then ascended up to the roof

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Celebrating

40 years of Rock Concerts

at Knebworth It’s been 40 years since Knebworth House held its first rock concert and in that time the greats of rock, jazz and pop have all played there.

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rom the first show in ‘74 with the Allman Brothers, Van Morrison and Doobie Brothers; to the recent Sonisphere rock festivals, the Red Hot Chili Peppers in 2012 and the Eastern Electric dance event in 2013; the gothic house backdrop has become emblematic of the best in music. The Park’s natural bowl and easy access from the A1M makes an ideal venue for large events.

As part of the 40th Anniversary celebrations there is be a fascinating exhibition of Knebworth rock and concert memorabilia in the House from 1st July to 31st August (excluding 3-8th July when the Park is closed for the Sonisphere Festival). There is no extra charge to see the exhibition which is included in the Knebworth House ticket.

For many music lovers, the Knebworth concert they attended defined their generation. In the ‘70s Pink Floyd, The Rolling Stones, Frank Zappa, Genesis and Led Zeppelin all played Knebworth.

In 1986 Queen ended their ‘It’s a Kind of Magic’ tour at Knebworth; their last ever gig. Audiences grew and 120,000 people attended the 1990 charity gig featuring Pink Floyd, Paul McCartney, Robert Plant

Queen at Knebworth

and Jimmy Page, among others. In 1996 Oasis booked a 250,000 ticket show over two-nights, defining the Britpop era in a weekend.

Sonisphere 2010 saw the largest live audience in the UK ever for a non-English language music concert and at Sonisphere 2011, Bill Bailey entertained the largest live audience in the UK ever for a live comedy show. But by far the most memorable concert was the Robbie Williams concert, which is still one of the UK’s biggest music events ever staged, attracting a staggering 375,000 people over the three nights of the concert one historic weekend in August 2003.

As Henry Lytton Cobbold comments: “I am proud that Hertfordshire is home to the largest single-stage music venue in the country and that, over 40 years, Knebworth Park has become legendary worldwide for its classic shows. At Knebworth Park we are very proud of our reputation as the home of classic British rock - and look forward to a fifth decade of being the biggest and the best!”

For more information on the history of Knebworth Concerts see www.knebworthhouse.com

Robbie Williams at Knebworth

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Auberge du Lac

A Culinary Delight Housed in Brocket Hall’s former hunting lodge, Auberge du Lac enjoys an idyllic

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hether it is al fresco dining in summer, lakeside, or an intimate environment in the winter months, Auberge du Lac provides the right mood for every occasion. With a beautiful lounge, picturesque terrace and a host of tastefully decorated private dining rooms, capable of seating from 2 to 30 guests, the restaurant regularly caters for private dinners, ladies lunches, exclusive weddings, birthday parties and other celebrations.

at Escuela Española de Cata in Madrid and worked as a sommelier for 5 years, will pair guest’s wine to match each course perfectly.

Head Chef Marcus McGuiness took the reigns in October and has been exciting guests with his menus since. Before his time at Auberge du Lac, Marcus had spent six years working alongside Claude Bosi at his two Michelin star Mayfair restaurant Hibiscus, where he was Head Chef and Bosi’s right-hand man. Before moving to London, Marcus spent two years as the sous chef at two Michelin star restaurant, La Champignon Sauvage in Cheltenham.

Chefs Q&A

Under Marcus’s direction, the restaurant will be serving lunch and evening a la carte options, as well as his signature six course tasting menus, all with an emphasis on affordable fine-dining. Menu examples include, Scallops, Sweetcorn & Buttermilk; Fillet of Beef, Red Wine braised Cheek, Bone Marrow, Caramelised Chicory & Maple Syrup; Seasonal Wild Salmon, Artichokes, Heritage Tomatoes, Roast Red Pepper and to finish, Tonka Bean Parfait, Strawberries & Basil.

To match the impressive menus, Auberge du Lac has over 750 bins on its extensive wine list. Sommelier Derya Demirci de la Fuente, who has trained

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Auberge du Lac is the perfect destination for a romantic meal, celebration, business lunch or weekend treat. Overnight accommodation is available within the Brocket Hall estate, in the 16-bedroomed Melbourne Lodge, a converted Georgian coach house.

Describe your style Modern British. I grew up in Oxfordshire in a family of cooks. I have always loved food and am as British as they come! I try to use seasonal ingredients and local produce where possible. I really enjoy taking simple ingredients and turning them into something that tastes great.

How do you decide your menu? I work with the seasons and take inspiration from my team. Lots of tasting!

Which menu dish do you most enjoy preparing? I enjoy making all the dishes on the menu and don’t have a particular favourite although the Lobster Ravioli is great for the summer.

What ingredient is most important to your cooking? Fruits as these create the balance between sweet and savoury dishes.

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lakeside setting overlooking the beautiful broad water with view of the Hall itself.

What’s been your best culinary idea? I couldn’t pin down a particular idea but stumbling across foraging has changed my cooking. I love being able to go out for a walk on the estate, find wild herbs, plants and mushrooms and take them back to the kitchen and make something extraordinary out of them.

Who did you train under and what did they teach you? I first trained under Gus Ashenford at Chavignol in Chipping Norton. He taught me the classic French techniques that I enjoyed using on local British produce. My time with Claude Bosi and Hibiscus in London taught me finesse in finishing my dishes.

What’s your prediction for the next food trend? I don’t really have an opinion on food trends and don’t follow them. I am more interested in the seasons and what makes great tasting food.

What’s in your fridge at home? Pots of pureed food and baby milk! I have a 7 month old daughter at home.

Favourite quick meal? A great sandwich. Brie de Meaux, cured ham and red onion marmalade – delicious!

Top three tips for amateur chefs? Buy best produce available, keep it simple and taste taste taste!

Best cookbook? French Provincial Cooking by Elizabeth David

Competition Auberge du Lac is the proud partner of Moët & Chandon and for this summer will be serving Moët Ice Impérial, the first and only champagne especially created to be enjoyed over ice. A new champagne experience combining fun, fresh and free sensations while remaining true to the Moët & Chandon style, a style distinguished by its bright fruitiness, its seductive palate and its elegant maturity.

Book a table for four guests during July and August for either lunch or dinner and enjoy a bottle of this very special new Champagne with our compliments. Please quote promotional code MCICE2014 when making your booking.

T&C’s apply – Applies to Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday only.

We are delighted to offer one lucky reader and a guest the chance to enjoy this summer sensation on us. The prize includes our 6-course tasting menu for two guests and a bottle of Moët Ice Impérial to enjoy with the beautiful summer tasting menu.

Answer the following question The Auberge du Lac is situated in which County – A) Buckinghamshire B) Essex C) Hertfordshire Please send your answers to marketing@brocket-hall.co.uk with your name, number and email address included.

Alternatively, send your answer to Marketing Department, Brocket Hall International Ltd, Welwyn, Herts, AL8 7XG. j u ly 2 0 1 4 2 9

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until 3rd

August 2 014

The Royal National Rose Society Gardens of the Rose, Chiswell Green, St Albans

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he Royal National Rose Society is not only the world’s oldest specialist plant society but the foremost global authority on the cultivation and care of the rose. Established in 1876, the RNRS now has a membership that spans the globe and includes many affiliated horticultural societies and research libraries, as well as thousands of rose- loving individuals.

Today, the RNRS is best known for its flagship Gardens of the Rose at Chiswell Green in Hertfordshire, on the outskirts of St Albans. Opened 50 years ago by the then Patron of the Society, the Princess Royal, The Gardens of the Rose offer five acres of stunning displays of tens of thousands of roses, both traditional and contemporary, complemented by a huge selection of companion plants.

The Gardens of the Rose underwent a complete refurbishment in 2006 with the initial assistance of garden designer Michael Balston and more recently with Hampton Court Palace Flower Show Gold Medal winner Julian Tatlock Landscape & Garden Design. New roses, herbaceous perennials, spring bulbs, shrubs and water features set amid contrasting lawns and paths now provide substantial interest. The Gardens of the Rose show the very best that the rose world has to offer but, as with any garden, they are continually evolving.

The world-renowned gardens in Chiswell Green will be open from Saturday 7th June until Sunday 3rd August 2014. Highlights include: a 72 arch pergola with each pillar supporting climbing/rambling roses and companion plantings of clematis, lonicera and others, 3 ponds containing a variety of fish and water loving plants, displays of the best of modern roses together with many varieties of old garden roses, a

border of species roses and a grassed maze, a rose collection showing the history of the rose and the Queen Mother rose garden.

A major objective is the administration of the RNRS International rose trials which are open to both professional and amateur rose breeders. The Society is also recognised as a governing body in the administration of showing and judging roses in the UK. Visit our shows area page for details of forthcoming events.

Become a member of the Royal National Rose Society and join a worldwide community of rose lovers. As a member, you will be able to draw on the expertise of one of the world’s leading authorities on roses. You will be amazed at the results you will achieve and the knowledge you will gain with a helping hand from the RNRS team. Membership also gives you automatic access to the members’ only section of this website - including advice on rose plants, species, products and equipment from our gardening team.

Best of all, you will enjoy free entry with a guest to our showpiece Gardens of the Rose on the outskirts of St Albans, and discounted entry to special events such as the Hampton Court Palace Flower Show.

You can join in the discussions on our Members’ Forum, where you can contribute your own opinions and share information, good practice and worthwhile tips and all for as little as £32.00 a year depending on the category of membership you choose.

Gardens of the Rose, Chiswell Green Lane, Chiswell Green, St Albans, AL2 3NR Tel: 0845 833 4344 www.rnrs.org.uk j u ly 2 0 1 4 3 1

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1954 Singer Sports

1928 Bentley 4.5 litre

Wednesday

30th July

1928 Bentley 4.5 litre

2014

1932 Rolls Royce

1961 Daimler

1980 Corvette C3

Classics on the Common

Organised by Harpenden Village Rotary Club - Sponsored by Harpenden Town Council

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ew would disagree with the view of a Harpenden Town Councillor that Harpenden Common is ‘the jewel in the town’s crown.’ The vast tract of common grassland, sweeping you into the town centre as you approach from the south, is home to a golf club, a cricket club and the occasional fair and circus, yet still provides acres of recreational space for residents and visitors.

But, since 1994, for one day a year, this idyllic scene is interrupted for a few hours for what has become the biggest classic car show of its kind in Britain.

Over the years we’ve had bright sun, clouds and occasional rain but whatever the weather nothing stops most of the pre-registered owners of more than 1000 classic vehicles from driving to Harpenden from all over the UK and beyond to display their cherished vehicles. And there is never any shortage of admirers. Up to 10,000 spectators - residents and visitors - spend hours admiring the mouth-watering collection.

Even in damp conditions the attendance is unexpectedly, and gratifyingly, high.

A ‘classic’ vehicle should be at least 20 years old but we usually have one or two built around a century ago, such as a 1900 Daimler Type A, and

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a 1913 model T Ford. Every decade following is always well represented, too, from Rolls Royces and Maseratis to Austin A40s and Morris Minors. We have even had a Sinclair C5.

Classics on the Common was the brain-child of Harpenden resident and Metropolitan Police officer Peter Madden. The idea was born shortly after he bought a 1968 Rover P5B coupe and the first year attracted 125 cars. Since that time the event has grown steadily in popularity with owners and spectators. When Peter Madden decided to make the 2008 Classics his last, he asked the Harpenden Village Rotary Club to take over responsibility for organising and running the event. As members of a service organisation Rotarians are no strangers to running or helping with events and, with more than 40 members, we had a good deal of man- and woman-power to offer.

On the day, the Rotarians are at full stretch so we are very grateful to have our numbers boosted by members of our associated club, Harpenden Village Inner Wheel, and St Albans & Harpenden Police Cadets, volunteers from the principal charities supported by the event, members of Harpenden Lions Club and Carpenters Arms Classic Car Club and other volunteers.

Ticket Applications or safety reasons and to ease exit problems we last F year reduced the maximum number of 4-wheel vehicles to 1050. We shall apply the same limit this year. As we reached that capacity number seven weeks before the event in 2013, we strongly recommend you apply early for your ticket.

As forewarned last year, for safety reasons we are bringing all motorcycles and scooters into line with 4-wheel vehicles. This year you will need to book in advance and your bike or scooter must be 20 years old or older. Please note: no tickets will be available on the day of the event and any motorcycle or scooter arriving without a ticket will not be admitted.

As the costs of organising the event are substantial and could expose us to making a loss should bad weather lead to its cancellation, the entry ticket donation for all vehicles is again non-refundable.

The entry ticket donation for motorcycles and scooters has been increased to £5.

Entry Fees M otorcycles and scooters £5 plus SAE C ars and all other vehicles £8 plus SAE S pectators - FREE C harity donations welcome

Entries for 2014 are now invited

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Friday 18th July to Sa 13th Septemturday ber 2014

proms

Royal Alber Hall, Londo t n BBC Radio 3, BBC and online TV

The biggest ever celebration of global classical music

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BC Proms have announced the wide-ranging programme of events planned for its 120th season. The festival promises many of the world’s greatest artists, composers, orchestras and ensembles across 92 concerts including four Last Night celebrations around the UK. Global classical music is at the heart of the 2014 Proms with more international orchestras performing than ever before. 10 international ensembles appear for the first time including orchestras from China, Greece, Iceland, Lapland, Qatar, Singapore, South Korea and Turkey. Some of the world’s most renowned orchestras return including the Berlin Philharmoniker, Cleveland Orchestra, Budapest Festival Orchestra, West-Eastern Divan Orchestra and Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra. With Promming tickets remaining at £5 for the 9th year running, the finest music from around the globe is made accessible for the widest audience.

A century after the outbreak of the First World War the Proms reflects on the music, musicians and musical legacy of the Great War. Works by composers who lost their lives in the trenches, sit alongside the music of composers writing years after the conflict, including Benjamin Britten’s War Requiem, and Sally Beamish’s violin concerto inspired

by Erich Maria Remarque’s novel All Quiet on the Western Front. On 4 August, marking the day Britain entered the war, there will be a special Late Night Prom featuring the second of two world premieres by the late John Tavener.

Collaborating with the National Theatre, the War Horse Prom features lifesize puppets from the internationally acclaimed production, alongside music performed by the Proms Military Wives Choir directed by Gareth Malone.

The Proms continues to offer a wide range of music with exciting debut performances by Paloma Faith and Rufus Wainwright. The Pet Shop Boys 3 4 j u ly 2 0 1 4

perform the world premiere of their new piece, A Man from the Future, based on the life and work of Alan Turing. The first BBC Sport Prom, hosted by Gabby Logan, brings together the world of music and sport, and the Proms teams up with the BBC’s pre-school channel, CBeebies, for two special concerts.

In 2014 there will be more Proms content available to listen to online than ever before across PC, mobile and tablet. With exciting new digital additions, including a dedicated Proms button on the BBC iPlayer Radio app, six interactive BBC iWonder guides, and the use of BBC Playlister, audiences can enjoy the Proms whenever and wherever they like. BBC television welcomes new presenters, including soprano Danielle de Niese, organist Wayne Marshall and BBC News presenter Razia Iqbal. Every Prom is broadcast live on BBC Radio 3 and the audio streamed online in HD quality, with additional broadcasts on Radio 1, Radio 2 and for the first time on both Radio 4, with a commission for its PM programme, and Radio 5 live in its 20th anniversary year.

Sir Andrew Davis will conduct the First Night of the Proms with a performance of Elgar’s The Kingdom, and Sakari Oramo conducts the Last Night of the Proms for the first time. Rufus Wainwright, who gives his own Late Night Prom a few days earlier, performs at Proms in the Park, Hyde Park alongside Earth, Wind & Fire.

The Proms’ ongoing commitment to New Music is demonstrated with 12 world premieres (10 of which are BBC commissions) and 23 European, UK and London premieres.

For full details of the season please visit: bbc.co.uk/proms Tickets on sale via bbc.co.uk/proms or 0844 209 7353 and in person at the Royal Albert Hall

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WIMBLEDON 2014

HIGHLIGHTS

Andy Murray crashed out of Wimbledon in the quarter-finals against Grigor Dimitrov.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were left despondent in the Royal Box while Murray’s girlfriend Kim Sears was stony-faced as she hurried out of Centre Court.

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fter the game, Murray admitted: “ I just didn’t play well today and he played much better than me from the beginning to the end. That’s not going to add up to a good day at the office.” He revealed he would take a few days off following the defeat, but “ probably won’t be on a beach”. The reigning champion was cheered on by a host of famous names in the Royal Box, including actor Hugh Grant, comedian Michael McIntyre, Princess Beatrice and England rugby union coach Stuart Lancaster. The Scot’s fans inside Centre Court were left disappointed by the defeat.

For the third year in a row, Rafael Nadal made an early exit from Wimbledon after a stunning loss to a player ranked 100th or worse. Nick Kyrgios, a 19-year-old wild card from Australia with a world ranking of 144, served 37 aces and used a fearless go-for-broke style to beat the No. 1-ranked Nadal 7-6 (5), 5-7, 7-6 (5), 6-3 to reach the quarterfinals.

Playing in his first Wimbledon and second major, Kyrgios is the first player outside the top 100 to defeat a No. 1 at a Grand Slam since No. 193 Andrei Olhovskiy downed Jim Courier in the third round at Wimbledon in 1992.

Kyrgios served out the match at love, hitting an 3 6 j u ly 2 0 1 4

ace on match point. He’s the first man to get to the quarterfinals in his Wimbledon debut in 10 years.

MENS SINGLES CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE Novak Djokovic wins the Wimbledon men’s singles final in a thrilling, nailbiting five-set match against Roger Federer. Federer won the opening set of the clash in a tense tie-break, before Novak Djokovic took the next two sets.

Djokovic, the higher ranking player, appeared to struggle with injury at times but looked dominant in the three middle sets. It appeared that the match was in the Serbian’s hands after he broke Federer in the fourth – but the Swiss sportsman won an impressive five games back-to-back and went onto take the fourth set by seven games to five.Both men showed signs of fatigue in the final set. It was the first five-set Wimbledon men’s single final since the 2009 clash between Federer and Andy Roddick. However, it was Djokovic who rose to the challenge of the final set - winning it six games to four.

It was a great match to be a part of”, Djokovic said after the match. He joked with Federer, who he called a “great athlete” and a “role model for many children”, saying: “Thank you for letting me win today.”

LADIES SINGLES CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE Petra Kvitova defeats Eugenie Bouchard 6-3, 6-0 to win the 2014 Wimbledon Women’s Championship.

With a masterful performance, sixth-seeded

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Petra Kvitova dominated No. 13 Eugenie Bouchard to win her second Wimbledon title by a score of 6-3, 6-0. The 24-year-old played a nearperfect game, backing up her powerful serves and returns with impressive agility as she moved around the court, limiting Bouchard’s opportunities to take control.The fast-paced match featured mostly short rallies, with Kvitova finding ways to win points on both sides of the service game. For 20-year-old Bouchard, her first appearance in a Grand Slam final is another step forward in her impressive rise this season. She didn’t play badly on Saturday; she just couldn’t find a way to get the best of Kvitova. For her part, the 24-yearold Czech backs up her 2011 Wimbledon title with what could be the most impressive match of her career, signalling that she’s a force to be reckoned with one again in women’s tennis. A well-deserved victory for Petra Kvitova.

MEN’S DOUBLES CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE American Jack Sock and and Canadian Vasek Pospisil win the men’s doubles title against the Bryan brothers in five long sets. The scratch pair, who only signed up days before the draw, eventually triumphed 7-6 (7-5) 6-7 (3-7) 6-4 3-6 7-5 in just over three hours. They are ranked 99 and 94 respectively in the world doubles rankings and claimed their first title together.

Sock, aged 21 years 285 days, is the third youngest man in the Open era to win both a Grand Slam men’s doubles title and a Grand Slam mixed doubles title, having previously won the 2011 US Open mixed doubles title with fellow American Melanie Oudin. Bob and Mike Bryan, the top seeds, were seeking their 16th Grand Slam title. Despite the disparity in rankings there was little to separate the two pairs in the opening two sets which were decided by tie-breaks. The Bryan brothers, seeking their 99th career title, hit back, converting one of their two break points in the next to take the match into a deciding fifth set.

WOMEN’S DOUBLES CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE Sara Errani and Roberta Vinci claim women’s doubles title to complete career Grand Slam together. The Italians overwhelmed Hungarian Timea Babos and Frenchwoman Kristina Mladenovic under the roof on Centre Court, claiming a 6-1 6-3 victory. Vinci fired down a service winner to clinch it, prompting Errani to fall to the turf in celebration. Vinci embraced her before the pair raced up to the players’ box to embrace friends and family. Errani and Vinci have been the dominant doubles team in the women’s game since 2012, the year in which they won the French Open and US Open. They added the Australian Open title last year and made a successful defence in January. This year’s victory makes them the fifth women’s team to complete the career Grand Slam, and the first since Serena and Venus Williams achieved the feat in 2001.

MIXED DOUBLES CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE Nenad Zimonjic of Serbia and 2011 U.S. Open singles champion Samantha Stosur of Australia won the Wimbledon mixed doubles title with a 6-4, 6-2 win over Max Mirnyi of Belarus and Taiwan’s Chan Hao-ching. Zimonjic and Stosur broke their opponents’ service in the third game of the second set to put them on the way to their first Grand Slam title together.

Stosur, who won the U.S. Open women’s singles in 2011, won a Grand Slam mixed doubles title for the third time, including with Bob Bryan at Wimbledon in 2008. Zimonjic said he and Stosur had plenty of confidence. “I think it doesn’t matter who is on the other side, if we are playing good, we can win against anyone on that day,” he said. This is the tournament that I always dreamed of winning,” he continued. “This is the best tournament in the world”. j u ly 2 0 1 4 3 7

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Until 13th Septemb er

2014

Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre The award-winning Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre is a firm fixture of summer in the city, providing a cultural hub in the beautiful surroundings of a Royal Park. Its steeply raked auditorium is one of the largest in London with 1,250 seats, yet one of the most intimate.

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ach night an incomparable atmosphere is created by the buzz of people enjoying their theatregoing in every sense: friends setting up hampers on the picnic lawn, filling their glasses with wine or drinking Pimms in the bar as the fairy lights twinkle in the trees. Yet the Open Air Theatre is not just about an amazing atmosphere, it is about remarkable storytelling too.

Built upon a core of outstanding dramatic credentials, they aim to present bold and dynamic productions that stimulate the senses. Weather and climate adds a thrilling contribution, making the relationship between performer, text and audience a truly unique event at every performance.

Hobson’s Choice

TWO COURSES FROM £10.50 LUNCH MENU Until 12th July & VIP PRIVATE DINING AVAILABLE

Performances: Mon-Sat 7.45pm. Matinees – Thurs & Sat -2.15pm

Karl Davies will play Willy Mossop in Hobson’s Choice alongside the previously announced cast which features Mark Benton as Henry Hobson. Karl Davies is best known for his long-running television roles as Robert Sugden in Emmerdale and Lyle Anderson in Kingdom. Karl has appeared on stage in The Great Game (Tricycle Theatre) and Propeller’s The Winter’s Tale and Henry V directed by Edward Hall. Mark Benton is well known for his television roles in Early Doors, Northern Lights and Waterloo Road. Mark has also appeared on stage in Richard III (Royal Shakespeare Company), A Day in the Death of Joe Egg (Nottingham Playhouse) and the 2013 UK tour of Hairspray. In September 2013 Mark was a popular contestant on BBC1’s Strictly Come Dancing. Other casting includes Kate Adler (Ada Figgins), Robin Bowerman (Dr Macfarlane), Hannah Britland (Vickey Hobson), Nadia Clifford (Alice Hobson), Joanna David (Mrs Hepworth), Bill Fellows (Jim Heeler), Jodie McNee (Maggie Hobson), Jordan Metcalfe (Albert Prosser), Leon Williams (Fred Beenstock) and Richard Syms (Tubby Wadlow)

The Gershwins’ Porgy And Bess

17th July – 23rd August

Performances: Mon-Sat – 7.45pm. Matinees Thurs & Sat 2.15pm.

No matinees on 17th or 24th July.

Jade Ewen will play Clara, Cedric Neal will play Sportin’ Life, Golda Rosheuvel will play Serena and Leon Lopez will play Jake in the Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess, alongside the previously announced cast Rufus Bonds Jr and Nicola Hughes 3 8 j u ly 2 0 1 4

who will play the title roles. Jade Ewen has previously appeared in Tonight’s The Night (UK Tour), Whistle Down The Wind (Aldwych Theatre) and Disney’s The Lion King (Lyceum Theatre). Jade is also a former member of Sugababes and in 2009 represented the UK in the Eurovision Song Contest performing It’s My Time written by Andrew Lloyd Webber. Cedric Neal is an American actor whose stage credits include After Midnight (Brooks Atkinson Theatre, Broadway), the Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess (Broadway) and Dreamgirls (Signature Theatre) for which he was awarded the Helen Hayes Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor.

Cedric played the role of Kennard Royce in the television series Friday Night Lights. Leon Lopez is a British actor whose stage credits include Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (UK tour), Rent (Duke of York’s), Tick, Tick… BOOM! (Duchess Theatre) and Piaf (Donmar Warehouse). Leon also played the long-running role of Jerome Johnson in Brookside. Golda Rosheuvel has performed on stage in The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time (National Theatre), South Pacific (National Theatre), Macbeth (Shakespeare’s Globe) and You Can’t Take it With You (Royal Exchange, Manchester). Golda previously played Lady Macbeth in the Open Air Theatre’s production of Macbeth re-imagined for everyone aged six and over.

Twelfth Night – Re-Imagined for aged 6+

By William Shakespeare

Until 12Th July 2014

Performances: Mon, Tues, Weds, Fri (1.30pm); Sat (9.45am); Sun (10am & 1.30pm) All tickets £15, Family ticket: £50 (4 tickets, of which at least 1 must be for an adult)

To Kill A Mockingbird

28th August – 13th September 2014

Performances: Tuesday – Sunday 7.45pm; matinees Wed, Thur, Sat & Sun (2.15pm) No matinee on 28th Aug or 3rd Sept

ES G A Tickets Prices K OK C All productions (excluding Twelfth Night): £25-£45 A O Premium tickets £55 (includes a programme and glass of wine) P B M O Group and School rates available O T RO LE Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre 2014 season: G B Box Office: 0844 826 4242 N ILA I T A Online Bookings: www.openairtheatre.com EE AV M

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Summer at Hertford House

ollowing on from its recent re-launch Hertford House now boasts a new restaurant, bar, lower ground cocktail lounge and stylish outdoor garden this summer. Enlisting cutting edge London chef, Carl Clarke, to bring his unique style of British diner style dining to the venue, Hertford has been treated to the likes of woodgrilled, rare-breed Flat Iron and 35 day aged Rib Eye steaks, Cornish dayboat fish, BBQ hickory smoked chicken and a wide variety of fresh salads.

New Summer Menu Carl has created a zesty new menu to celebrate summer and local produce.

With a wide selection of mouth watering salads including watermelon and feta and Cornish crab and pink grapefruit, searing Korean Bulgogi steak bun straight from the Robata Grill and a spicy Korean smoked beef short rib from the in-house smoker.

For those long weekends, the DIY Bloody Mary station will revive any slow starter, taking your pick from a wide range of spirits, fresh tomato juice and spices, you can make yours exactly how you’d like it!

The sun-soaked new garden now serves seasonal cocktail specials to make those warm afternoons even more enjoyable, kick back and enjoy those Jammin Mojitos and Blueberry sours alongside cool draft beers and ciders.

Lower Ground Lounge Employing the talents of top London designers the Mint List

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(recommended by The Sunday Times and Elle Decoration) and architects, Mango (Milk & Honey and The Clubhouse in Chamonix) no expense has been spared on creating a sumptuous new late night cocktail bar and lounge. With stylish guilt wallpaper, graphic print carpeting and original antique furniture and artwork, reclaimed from as far afield as Denmark, to create a contemporary yet lived-in feel. Acting as a decadent sister space to the ground floor restaurant, diners will be able to enjoy an aperatif cocktail, take their time over a leisurely meal and then end the evening listening to a top DJ, cabaret act or comedian.

Outdoor Garden Enlisting The Mint List to create a stylish outdoor haven in the centre of Hertford town, guests can enjoy a wide range of summery cocktails and al fresco food in this new sun-soaked hot spot. With white washed walls, beach hut style roped lighting and plentiful seating, there’s no better place to enjoy a sunny evening or weekend brunch, check the website for news of exclusive live acts playing over the summer.

Food Bursting with the freshest local ingredients, finest cuts of meat and sea-fresh fish, no compromise has been made on the quality of food in the menu. For breakfast delights including Hickory Smoked Duck Hash, Buttermilk Pancake Stack with a choice of dry cured bacon, house smoked sausage or local berries, will ensure the fun starts early. The all day menu kicks off with a range of ‘Snacks’ ranging from lip-smacking buttermilk

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Hertford House has summer covered with its new outdoor garden and decadent lower ground lounge friend chicken wings, hot smoked salmon pumpkin seed cracker and wood grilled English asparagus, purple sprouting broccoli, fried duck egg with a smoked ranch dressing.

The innovative menu includes the signature HH burger (rare breed beef, cheese, bacon, pickled onions and bun sauce), buttermilk fried chicken roll with chilli vinegar and Korean mayo and Cornish day boat fish tacos with Cornish Brie, wild garlic and HH slaw. Whilst the BBQ menu tempts with pulled rare breed pork, ½ hickory smoked chicken and ‘low and slow’ saddleback belly ribs whilst the Wood Grill showcases Cornish day boat fish, rare breed flat iron steak or a bone-in 35-day dry aged rib eye.

Drinks The enticing list features a wide range of re-worked classic cocktails including a Gin Daisy made with a summary combo of Gin, Crème de Fraise and local jam makers ‘All that Jam’ Strawberry and Champagne variety. Another great menu highlight is the Smoked Jalapeno Pickle Back, a shot of Jameson’s Whisky served alongside a shot of Jalapeno infused pickle juice, originally created in Brooklyn, New York, this is a spicy rendition of the original.

Teas and Coffees 3 Things that make the new coffee at Hertford House exceptional...

The Coffee Using coffee beans from Allpress Espresso, specifically their Redchurch

Blend (Roasted on Redchurch Street in Shoreditch, London), a medium roast with cocoa, spice & caramel characteristics.

The Shot Coffee served as a double ristretto to bring out the best flavour. A ristretto shot is shorter than a regular espresso shot and more full bodied with less bitterness.

The Machine Employing a La Marzocco Linear Classic espresso machine and a Mazzer Super Jolly grinder, La Marzocco are the most trusted and well-respected espresso machine makers in the world, hand made in Florence since 1927.

All the teas are from the Yumchaa brand showcasing classic black teas, green teas, white teas and Tissanes (caffeine free) in Egyptian Nights and Raspberry Vanilla varieties.

Music True to Hertford House’s existing reputation of leading the way with Hertford’s nightlife scene, music is key to creating the ultimate atmosphere.

During the day diners can expect a laid-back mix or reggae, dub, punk, soul, groove and 80’s classics. Top weekend DJ’s will up the tempo, each week, playing from both the bar area and late-night cocktail lounge downstairs. @HertfordHotel Hertford House, 1 Fore St, Hertford SG14 1DA 01992 517440 www.hertfordhouse.co.uk

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Finest Fizz ‘Skinny’ Rosé

This year sees the release of one of the most unique and delicious Champagnes, yet. Produced exclusively by Finest Fizz and Tribaut, the ‘Skinny’ Rosé de Reserve Extra Brut, is a brand new pink Champagne, launching as one of the few bottles of bubbly, as skinny as it is tasteful.

With 0% residual sugar, the Premier Cru Rose Champagne, can be enjoyed at only 65 calories per glass, making it hard to resist the fruity flavours for everyone who appreciates a fine bubbly.

The perfectly balanced dry Champagne came to life when Valerie Coudrain at the renowned Tribaut vineyard, and the family owned company, Finest Fizz decided to join forces, to bring to you one of the most innovative drinks, the British market has ever seen, perfect for those not wishing to give up a healthy lifestyle, for a glass of goodness.

The ‘Skinny’ Rosé is dominated by romantic red fruits flavours, such as strawberry, raspberry and red cherry. However the exclusive aromas do not reflect on the price, whereas a bottle can be purchased for an extremely reasonable £38, or for those wanting the little extra: for just £48 it comes in a beautiful silk lined, sandalwood box.

The idea behind the ‘Skinny’ Rose was to create a Champagne that is better for you, without comprising on taste. In recent years we have witnessed a huge amount of studies conducted on the danger of too much sugar in our diets, and the ‘Skinny’ Rosé is therefor nearly 30% lower in sugar than the normal rosé, aiming to create a healthier alternative for all Champagne lovers out there.

The team behind Finest Fizz, husband and wife, Howard and Randi Abernethy, launched the online retailer company last year, and their incomparable Rosé de Reserve, quickly became hugely popular all over the country. Howard grew up close to Hautvillers, also know as the Cradle of Champagne and Randi & Howard have therefore made many friendships and connections in the village where Dom Perignon invented Champagne. Specialising in unknown hand-crafted Champagne, Finest Fizz deliver some of the finest Grand Cru and Premier Cru from the Champagne region of France to highstreet prices. As a company they believe that you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy a glass of good Champagne.

The Tribaut Skinny Rose de Reserve Premier Cru NV will be available to order online on www.finesfizz.biz from Monday 30th June. Finest Fizz also offers personalised labels. Whether it’s for an extra special gift, or an event, such as weddings, birthdays, or anniversaries; you can design your own personal label to create the perfect bottle of Champagne, for you. www.finesfizz.biz 4 2 j u ly 2 0 1 4

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Victoria Beckham’s First designer store in Mayfair Opening Autumn 2014

S

he already boasts an e-boutique and sells in luxury stores all over the world, but it seems that’s not enough for Victoria Beckham. The designer is to launch the brand’s first flagship store in London’s Dover Street, just a short walk from Old Bond Street, in the autumn. The store will be situated at number 36 - which is currently occupied by sporting store Orvis.

This places Victoria at the heart of the capital’s fashion district.

Along with her main collection, the new boutique will also house sister range Victoria,Victoria Beckham, as well as accessories, eyewear and denim. Her designs have proved popular with the likes of Beyonce and Gwyneth Paltrow. Up until now, Victoria’s chic clothing line, eyewear and handbags have only been available online, in fashion outlets and department stores, but now her fans will only have to take a trip to Dover Street in order to browse her latest collections.

This latest move in her fashion career comes as no surprise, as the 39-year-old star has made no secret of her desire to set up shop.

“I think the time is now because I know

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my customer,” Victoria Beckham says. “It will be the first time that the people will really be able to see the brand through my eyes. It’s young and cool. There are great galleries in the area. There’s Dover Street Market directly opposite of us, which is not a bad thing.”

Spanning 7,000 sq ft over three floors, the superstar has enlisted architect Farshid Moussavi,whose credits include the Museum of Contemporary Art in Cleveland , to renovate the building. Plans include drilling a hole through the middle of the building to link the boutique’s three floors and creating a conceptual interior. Moussavi is a woman who loves fashion as well,” Beckham said “She has quite a conceptual eye, which I like. We want to make something different without making it overly complicated. I just want it to feel real for me.”

Victoria Beckham has also revealed that Britain is her strongest market, followed by America - where she recently opened an office in New York. The 4,500 square feet space is for the US wholesale team and a seasonal showroom space. www.victoriabeckham.com

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“Designing shoes is magicians work - a shoe should be visible but sometimes needs to be invisible”

Christian Louboutin

If you had to name one designer brand that every woman aspires to and desires more than any other it would have to be Christian Louboutin high heels.

Worn by some of the most beautiful women on the planet, Christian Louboutin has become a byword for international glamour.

Maud Frizon, before launching his own first boutique in 1992, in Galerie Vero Dodat, Rue Jean Jacques Rousseau, close to the Louvre Museum.This was followed by New York in 1994, and in 1997, his first London boutique on Motcomb Street. Many more glamorous boutiques and top-end concessions followed.

Christian Louboutin has built one of the most successful shoe brands in the world with a blend of craftsmanship and a distinctive kind of glamour. From razor sharp stilettos and lace-up boots to studded sneakers and bejewelled pumps, Louboutin’s designs carry his unique signature. After leaving school, Louboutin worked at the famous Parisian music hall, the ‘Folies Bergere’. He watched the showgirls, captivated by their flamboyant costumes in which they performed effortlessly in towering heels. He would show up with drawings of shoes for all the dancers. “Ever since I was very young, I have been obsessed with spike heels. It’s all about the legs, how they carry themselves, the embellishment of the body. They are the ultimate icons.”

The designer’s goal has been to “make a woman look sexy, beautiful, to make her legs look as long as [he] can” While he does offer some lower-heeled styles, Louboutin is generally associated with his dressier evening-wear designs incorporating jewelled straps, bows, feathers, patent leather and other similar decorative touches. He is most popularly known for his red-bottom high heel shoes, commonly referred to as “sammy red-bottoms”.

The coloured nails, sequins and leather clasp are a playful interpretation of vibrant floral pattern and pastel hues ideally reserved for all spring collections. Christian Louboutin’s footwear and bags for Spring/Summer 2014 collection shows off its sweet side of season.

Christian Louboutin established himself as a freelance designer working for Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent and

The Pigalle Spikes 120 Gomme Patent Multi, £845 The most-loved Pigalle pump takes on a fresh, new look with rainbow-hued spikes. The Pigalle Spikes white matte leather pumps sport Christian Louboutin’s iconic lacquered red soles and can be styled with everything from slim tailoring to cocktail dresses. Heel measures approximately 100mm. Covered entirely in iconic Louboutin spikes, “Pigalle Spikes” is back once more...and this season, she’s clad in a gorgeous “Gomme” leather. With her perfectly pointed toe and rocker-chic design, “Pigalle Spikes” is the ultimate combination of naughty and nice, providing attitude and allure to each and every step she takes.

Available at: CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN MOUNT 17 Mount Street, London W1K 2RJ

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To see Christian Louboutin’s full range, and list of boutiques and stockists, please visit www.christianlouboutin.com

The Snakilta 120 Nappa Multi Spikes, £1,345 Snakilta’ is a sassy little booty covered in signature Louboutin spikes. Pointed toe perfection placed gracefully on a slender 120mm heel, “Snakilta” is a rock-steady booty with some serious attitude. And in white leather with multicolored matted spikes, “Snakilta” is sure to make a statement. And in white leather with multicolored matted spikes, “Snakilta” is sure to make a statement.

Available at: CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN SELFRIDGES 400 Oxford Street, London W1A 1AB

EVERYTHING ON BLACK CIVIC BLACK SPECIAL EDITION 0% APR Representative. 0 deposit 78.5 miles per gallon.

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85.6 (3.3), Combined 78.5 (3.6). CO2 Model Shown: Civic 1.6 i-DTEC Black Special Edition in Crystal Black Pearl at £22,460 On The Road (OTR). Terms and Conditions: New retail Civic registered from 1 July 2014 to 30 September 2014. Subject to model and colour availability. Offers applicable at participating dealers and are at the promoter’s absolute discretion. Civic Black Special Edition Honda Aspirations (PCP): Example shown based on Civic 1.6 i-DTEC Black Special Edition in / Optional Final Payment of £7,761.73 annual mileage of 10,000 and excess mileage charge: 6p per mile. You do not have to pay the Final Payment if you return the car at the end of the agreement and you have paid all other amounts due, the vehicle is in good condition and has been serviced in accordance with the Honda service book and the maximum annual mileage has not been exceeded. Indemnities may be required in certain Slough, Berkshire SL3 8QY. Honda Finance Europe Plc. is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, Financial Services Register number 312541. The 5 Year Care Package includes: Servicing: All scheduled Warranty: In addition to the standard 3 year warranty the customer will receive a complimentary Roadside Assist: In addition to the standard 3 years roadside assistance package the customer will receive complimentary The 5 Year Care Package: The 5 Year Care Package is optional. It is being offered for £555 including VAT (usual value £1,845

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The quirkiness that is

Vivienne Westwood

Influential and eccentric British fashion designer Vivienne Westwood is well known for her influence on punk fashion and dressing the Sex Pistols, as well as causing a stir with her political opinions and outspoken attitude.It’s no surprise that Dame Vivienne Westwood’s 72 years on earth have included some interesting moments. We’ve compiled 10 little-known facts about the queen of punk that may surprise you:

1 Vivienne studied fashion and silversmithing at the Harrow School of Art in London at the age of 17, but left after one term saying that a workingclass girl could never make a living in the art world. She went on to work in a factory and then as a teacher before eventually opening her own fashion boutique in Chelsea.

2 She was awarded an OBE in 1992 for her services to British fashion and attended the ceremony and collected her award from the Queen without wearing any knickers. This stunt was repeated in 2006 when she was awarded the title of “Dame” by the Prince of Wales.

3 In 2007, Westwood was awarded the gong for Outstanding Achievement in Fashion Design at the British Fashion Awards. Popping out for a “loo break” caused her to be late to collect her award.

4 Westwood’s controversial and artistic style seems to have rubbed off onto

her two sons have also gone on to have successful careers in art and fashion – her first son Benjamin Westwood is an erotic photographer and her second son, Joe Corre, is the founder of lingerie brand, Agent Provocateur

5 Vivienne Westwood is well-known for creating the wedding dress for the

character Carrie Bradshaw in the Sex and the City movie that spawned a thousand replicas. The dress in the movie was available to buy as a kneelength version on net-a-porter.com and sold out within hours. This was not her first foray into bridal wear, however: The very first wedding dress she designed was for her first marriage to Derek Westwood in 1962, well before the creation of her own fashion label.

6 Westwood partnered with Ethical Fashion Africa in 2011. She used local

woman to produce bags from recycled materials, paying them a fair wage for their skills and time. However her efforts were criticised by some for profiting from poverty.

7 Her design skills are not limited to fashion. Dame Westwood also produced a line of stationery and interior textiles in her iconic prints in 2010.

8 Vivienne Westwood has long been known for her political activism and

using her brand to draw attention to causes such as climate change, nuclear weapons and human rights. She writes a blog about these issues as well as fashion news at climaterevolution.co.uk.

9 Westwood does not watch television or read newspapers or magazines.

She is uninterested in pop culture and celebrities and admitted to not knowing who Emma Watson was when she presented her with the award of Elle Style Icon in 2001.

10 Vivienne lived in a council flat in Clapham for 30 years until 2000, when her husband (and former student), Andreas Kronthaler convinced her to move into her current home, which once belonged to the mother of Captain Cook.

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h e alt h & b e au t y

Davidoff Cool Water Coral Reef, #35 (Debenhams)

Buy iT now Carolina Herrera 212 Surf, £34.99 (The Perfume Shop)

Shrinking Violet wrap treatment, £80 (0800 567 7235

Give your beauty haul the designer treatment.

Jenny Packham has designed a cosmetics bag for Lancome inspired by an ink blue chequered print from her Spring/Summer 14 catwalk. Available in white or ink blue, each bag includes a selection of travel-size Lancome products and is free with two Lancome products (one to be skincare) from selected Lancome counters nationwide.

Jenny Packham for Lancome cosmetics bag, gift with purchase (www.lancome.co.uk)

Jean Paul Gaultier Classique Summer, £40 (House of Fraser)

We’re on the brink of heatwave, ice cream and swimming pool season. Time to celebrate with a brand new signature scent for summer. By Lisa Haynes, Press Association

smells like summer Beauty bulletin :: Feeling hot Don’t let the sun dictate your wardrobe this summer. A whopping 37% of us avoid grey clothing for fear of sweat patches, according to new research from anti-perspirant Triple Dry. Sweatiness also means over half of us avoid tight clothing when the barometer rises. When it comes to sweaty situations, 14% of people admit they are not confident that their deodorant would keep them dry. :: Recessionista alert Facial emergency? Call on the Skin Doctors at TJ Hughes. The skincare range is currently radically reduced, with prices from £6.99 while stocks last (www.tjhughes.co.uk).

F

ormulations for summer scents are lighter and fresher, so you don’t get that oppressive feeling on your skin once temperatures start soaring. Not only do they smell amazing, the evocative packaging looks like it belongs in a luxury suitcase alongside your bikinis and kaftans! With scents this good, you’ll be praying for an Indian summer so you can carry on spritzing....

SURF’S UP Make like you’re riding waves in Maui wearing Carolina Herrera’s limited edition 212 Surf. The eau de toilette incorporates an aquatic

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Roger&Gallet Gingembre Rouge, £32 (Marks & Spencer)

accord, alongside sensual woody notes and fresh musky tones, £34.99 for 60ml EDT (The Perfume Shop).

SEASIDE CHIC Who doesn’t want a fragrance box that resembles a beach deckchair?

Vivienne Westwood’s limited edition Sunny Alice is just as reminiscent of summer with zingy top notes of yellow mandarin and pink pepper that’s fresher than a seaside breeze, £49.50 for 75ml EDT (The Perfume Shop).

DIVE IN Water babies will lap up the aquatic notes in Davidoff Cool Water’s limited edition Coral Reef. Notes of melon are mixed with a fresh bouquet of

lily of the valley for an invigorating eau de toilette, £35 for 100ml EDT (Debenhams).

POOL POSING Kick back poolside via Issey Miyake’s L’Eau D’Issey Summer bottle featuring a pool mosaic of starfish and seahorses. The top notes of grapefruit, passion fruit and guava make for an explosively refreshing summer spritz, £40 for 100ml EDT (House of Fraser).

SUN WORSHIPPER Celebrate the sunshine season with Ghost’s new Eclipse scent. The fruity-floral eau de toilette combines fruity top notes with warm base notes of amber and musk, while the deep golden red and orange bottle resembles a heady sunset, from £24 for 30ml EDT (Superdrug).

Tried & tested Abi Jackson attempts to lose inches in 60 minutes flat with a wrap treatment.

I’ve never had a body wrap before. I’m more of a massage girl, plus I’ve always been a bit cynical about them. But when I hear about the new Shrinking Violet wrap, which is already gaining quite a following, I’m tempted to try it before bikini season. The treatment’s available in around 6,000 salons across the UK. Before heading to Dolly Birds of London (www.dollybirdsoflondon.co.uk) for mine I’m sent a list of instructions: drink plenty of water but no caffeine, alcohol or fizzy drinks, and eat lighter meals in the 24 hours beforehand. Dolly Bird’s Katy Istack instantly puts me at ease and explains everything. I strip to my bikini pants before she takes my measurements and begins by dry brushing my skin. Then she massages in the Shrinking Violet formula.

It contains a ‘complex mixture of essential oils’ and smells absolutely divine.

Vivienne Westwood Sunny Alice, £$9.50 (The Perfume Shop)

FEELING FRUITY Embrace vacation mode with Miller Harris’ limited edition Summer Collection. Three citrus fragrances are available in collectable bottles: Citron Citron, Tangerine Vert and Le Petit Grain, £65 each for 50ml EDP, available June (www.millerharris.com).

OCEAN GODDESS Make a splash with Jean Paul Gaultier Classique Limited Summer Edition. The collector bottle and metal can holder reflect the undersea world with a decorative siren, starfish and shell, £40 for 125ml EDT (House of Fraser).

SUMMER, BOTTLED You can’t mess with a classic - unless it’s a sunshine-friendly version of Calvin Klein’s ck one. The Summer edition opens with notes

of frozen lime, grapefruit and juicy melon for the perfect scent accompaniment to sorbet slurping, £32 for 100ml EDT (Boots).

AFRICAN ADVENTURE Escape to the u ltramarine skies and red dust trails of Zanzibar, the inspiration behind Roger & Gallet’s new Gingembre Rouge. The natural spray is light and refreshing but with spicy, addictive notes like ginger, £32 for 100ml (Marks & Spencer).

BEACH BABE Wear Bobbi Brown’s bestselling Beach fragrance on holiday and evoke memories of sun, sea and sand once you’re home. The eau de parfum is an intoxicating blend of sand jasmine, sea spray, and mandarin, £48 for 50ml EDP (www.bobbibrown.co.uk).

Model photo: PA Photo/Thinkstockphotos . All images courtesy of PA Photo/Handout

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Next comes the crucial wrapping. The roll of clear plastic may look like ordinary cling film but it’s actually Wrapture. Katy explains that using normal cling film’s not advised and may even be quite dangerous.

The Wrapture traps heat, helping the oils’ active ingredients penetrate deeper to break down fat cell content, which is then flushed out of your system through your pee, basically. Katy wraps up my limbs and torso then wraps my legs together.

Clients who don’t like the idea of their chest being wrapped can have the top half left open. I was worried about feeling claustrophobic but I actually found it OK. When Katy helps me lie down, I’m so relaxed that I soon drift off.

An hour later, she carefully cuts me out and massages in any oil remnants. When she re-takes my measurements, I’m amazed - I’ve shed seven inches in total, including half an inch on each thigh and an inch on my tummy. This isn’t a miracle cure though; I need to lay off the caffeine, booze and junk food and avoid showering for another 72 hours while the treatment remains active. For those wanting more significant inch-loss, longer courses are advised, but a single session is a great quick-fix before a holiday or special occasion. I leave feeling lighter and relaxed and my skin feels beautifully soft and nourished to boot.

Shrinking Violet treatment, available in salons nationwide, starting from £80.

To find treatments near you, call 0800 567 7235

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h e alt h & b e au t y

the laboratory

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uxury, style, space and elegance create the perfect environment to escape the many pressures of a hectic London life. Relaxation is essential to both the body and mind and the Laboratory Spa and Health Club provides a gateway to undisputed tranquillity. The Laboratory boasts an effortless and peaceful ambience in drawing you in and leaving you wanting more.

Winner of the UK Health Club of the Year award 2012/13 (National Fitness Awards) and Voted Best Private Health Club and Spa in London by Time Out; ‘the Club exudes an air of sophistication that strikes you the minute you walk through the feng-shui lobby. The Lab offers a unique atmosphere rarely enjoyed in other clubs’.

Tight for time? Our experienced Fitness Team will ensure your workout programme gets you tip-top results safely before you head off to work or why not squeeze a class into your day for a super-fast, super-intense workout that will leave you positively buzzing with renewed energy and vigour!

The Juice Bar is the ideal place to enjoy fresh and healthy snacks, and catch up with other members of the Club. Freshly made

No expense has been spared at the Lab from fresh flowers in the changing rooms, to the finest cutting-edge workout equipment.

The flawlessly finished workout areas complement the stunning swimming pools, personalised fitness and well-being programming and the choice of over 100 different fitness classes at each club.

Innovative, motivational and led by some of the UK’s finest and mostrespected fitness professionals, the Lab offers an unrivalled and envied timetable of group exercise classes to cater for every age, interest, and schedule. Schwinn cycling, BodyPump, salsa, aquatics, yoga, pilates, qi gong and so much more! Regular courses are also held, from meditation to Zumba and hula hooping workouts, pole-dancing and motivational talks.

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juices, home-made light meals and refreshments made from the highest quality ingredients make for a scrumptious menu.

In each Club there is a spectacular 25 metre swimming pool. These beautiful award winning pools are cleansed with the latest UV light technology, ensuring the highest possible standards of hygiene with minimal levels of chlorine. This enables members to bathe in comfort in the finest water

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Winner of the UK HEALTH CLUB OF THE YEAR award possible. Whether it’s a few gentle lengths before a steam or serious lane swimming as part of your cardio-vascular workout, it’s heaven for anyone who enjoys a swim.Each pool area incorporates twin spa baths, a wonderful relaxation area, marble steam rooms and Scandinavian saunas to help completely unwind.

The Lab’s philosophy is to not just treat the body on its own, but the mind and soul as well.

The Laboratory Spa & Health Clubs are one of the few remaining independent, privately owned Clubs in London. The original flagship site opened in 1995 with the impressive backdrop of Alexandra Palace in Muswell Hill. The Club is surrounded by its own luscious and secluded gardens where you can sun-bathe or chill out in private.

At The Laboratory, unlike most other clubs, there is no annual contract. Vas Hava, Director says “Our members stay with us because they value what we offer and love what we do.

We provide an oasis of calm in a busy life. We aim to help you achieve your goals and increase your individual wellbeing.

At the Lab you will be transported to a world of serenity, where muscle tension and the mind›s concerns simply melt away allowing you to emerge refreshed, balanced and energised.”

Lab members have full use of all facilities. Non members are welcome to use our Day Spa.

The Day Spa at The Lab is a haven of peace and calm that provides a chance to escape the stresses of daily life.

The newly-refurbished treatment rooms are the perfect backdrop for the exceptional team of highly-qualified spa therapists and holistic therapists to deliver a broad range of exceptional treatments including facials, massage, body care therapies , hot stone and reflexology, to name but a few.

For further information contact us on: 020 8457 3300 (Mill Hill) or 020 8482 3000 (Muswell Hill) Mill Hill: 1a Hall Lane, NW4 4TJ Muswell Hill: The Avenue N10 2QE www.labspa.co.uk

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Mr Michael Gaunt Consultant Vascular Surgeon Varicose and Thread Veins

BREEZE INTO SUMMER WITH NEW LEGS AND A NEW YOU

Did your legs let you down last summer because of varicose veins or thread veins? Why not do something about them so that you can look forward to this summer with confidence?

Consultant vascular surgeon Michael Gaunt has opened a new Harley Street practice specialising in varicose and thread veins. He is a leading venous expert, experienced in treating varicose veins with both the Endovenous Laser and ClariVein techniques. Varicose veins are often considered a cosmetic condition but if neglected can result in complications. Minimally invasive local anaesthetic procedures can be used to treat varicose veins on a walk in, walk out basis.

If you would like to book a mini-consultation, including an ultrasound scan, for just ÂŁ95 or if you would like to find out more about your treatment options call 01223 305858 or visit www.michaelgaunt.com

The London Clinic Harley Street

Spire Norwich Norfolk

BMI Bury St Edmunds Suffolk

Spire Lea & Nuffield Health Cambridge

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I think I’ve found a lump in my breast...

What Do I Do?

It is completely understandable that you might worry about the possibility of breast cancer if you find a lump, but remember; most lumps are not cancer. The most likely cause for a lump depends on your age.

Women from 20s to 30s In women from 20 to 30 a definite lump is most likely to be a fibroadenoma.

These are benign lumps that can sometimes be painful or enlarge but they are not cancerous and do not turn cancerous.

Women between 40s and 50s Between 40 and 50 breast cysts becom more common. These are also entirely benign. They are collections of fluid within the breast and although they can also be painful they are not dangerous.

Women aged 30 and onwards From the age of 30 onwards the gland tissue in the breast changes and it becomes more fibrous and nodular. The way the breast feels has been described as like a scaled down packet of frozen peas and occasionally, in just the same way that frozen peas can stick together to form a clump, so breast tissue can “stick together” to form definite nodular areas. These areas are also often tender but, once again, are not a sign of cancer. The rate of breast cancer begins to rise after the age of 40 and increases with age. Of course, breast cancer can occur at any age and I have seen cases in women as young as 19 and in their early 20s, but they are very, very rare.

The important message is, if you notice a change in your breast please get it checked. Let’s go through what you need to do.

The first thing to do is to see your GP and explain what you have noticed.

They will examine you and in some cases may suggest a further check at a different time of your menstrual cycle. Some of the nodular areas can change with the cycle and this is actually a reassuring sign. If a discrete nodular area persists or your GP finds a definite lump, or is unsure, they will refer you to a breast clinic for a full assessment by the breast team. The team should consist of several consultants working together, and includes a surgeon a radiologist and a pathologist. The investigation of any breast problem revolves around, what is called, the triple assessment. It is like doing a jigsaw puzzle; pieces (of information) are collected and put together until the whole picture (the diagnosis) becomes clear. Indeed, this is often termed “the diagnostic jigsaw”.

In some cases only 2 pieces may be needed, in others 4, but 3 (the triple assessment) is most common. Let’s have a look at what the pieces are.

The first specialist you meet will often be the breast surgeon. They will ask questions about your symptoms (called taking your “history”). They will also ask about previous medical problems and your family history. They will then examine both breasts. How the breast feels when it is examined is the 5 6 j u ly 2 0 1 4

first part of the jigsaw. If there is a definite area of change then a fine needle aspiration may be carried out. This test uses a normal sized syringe and needle. The needle is placed into the area of the breast and “jiggled” so that a small amount of material is sucked into the syringe. This is sent away to be looked at under the microscope. More commonly now a test known as a core biopsy is done. A core biopsy takes a core of breast tissue about 1.5 cm long and 2 mm in diameter. The core biopsy is carried out by first putting some local anaesthetic into the skin of the breast. Once this has worked (it is quite quick) a small nick is made in the skin to allow the core biopsy needle, attached to the biopsy “gun”, to be placed into the breast. When the “gun” is “fired” (it is painless, but does make a noise rather like a large stapler) the needle takes the sample. This is often repeated a few times. The appearance of the cells that have been removed with a fine needle aspiration, or the result of the core biopsy, is the second part of the jigsaw.

The final part of the triple assessment involves taking images of the breast.

In ladies under 35 an ultrasound scan is the commonest way of doing this.

In ladies over 35 they will have a mammogram as well. Full field digital mammograms are the most sensitive type available at the moment. What an area of the breast looks like on a mammogram or an ultrasound scan is the third piece of the jigsaw.

If the triple assessment produces the same answer at each stage the result is said to be concordant and no further tests may be needed. For example, a lump in a 30 year old lady may feel like a fibroadenoma, look like one on an ultrasound scan and a core biopsy shows pieces of a fibroadenoma.

An important part of the triple assessment that is not commonly mentioned is to watch how things change (or not) with time. It would not be unusual to check things a few months later, repeating some, or all, of the assessment to make sure nothing has changed. A thorough triple assessment may actually be a quadruple assessment! Once again it should be emphasised that in the majority of cases a triple assessment (or a quadruple one) will reveal that cancer is not present. Most symptoms are age related changes or benign lumps. However, it is important that any new change is thoroughly investigated by a specialist to make absolutely sure that all is well.

For more information Mr Simon Marsh MA MD FRCS is a Consultant Breast Surgeon at The London Breast Clinic, 108 Harley Street, London W1G 7ET. Email enquiries@108harleystreet.co.uk or visit the website at www.108harleystreet.co.uk.

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Hay fever Hell

H

ay fever, also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis, affects one in five people in the UK. According to John Collard, clinical director of Allergy UK, hay fever is a type of allergy. It happens when your body makes antibodies in response to certain triggers, such as pollen. It’s most common in children and, particularly, teenagers, but you can develop hay fever at any age. The symptoms usually include sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, and stuffy nose.

What causes hay fever?

In Britain, hay fever is mainly caused by grass pollen. Around 95% of hay fever sufferers are allergic to grass pollen. Tree pollen can cause hay fever too. Around a quarter of hay fever sufferers are allergic to tree pollen. Mould spores and weed pollen can also trigger symptoms.The pollens that cause hay fever vary from person to person and region to region. The amount of pollen in the air will affect how bad your hay fever is. There’s more likely to be more pollen in the air on hot, dry, windy days than on cool, damp, rainy days. Research shows that pollution, such as cigarette smoke or car exhaust fumes, also makes some allergies worse.

When is hay fever worst?

The time of year at which you begin to experience hay fever symptoms depends on the types of pollen you’re allergic to. Trees release their pollen in March to early May while grasses release pollen from late May to early August. Weeds and certain shrubs release their pollen in late summer. The hay fever season can therefore last from March to October. And if you’re unlucky enough to be allergic to more than one type of pollen, you may only have just two or three months without symptoms in the winter before the cycle starts again.

Tips to relieve hay fever Avoiding exposure to pollen is the best way to reduce the allergic symptoms of hay fever: K eep windows shut at night and first thing in the morning S tay indoors when the pollen count is high (between 50 and 150) Wear wraparound sunglasses.

P ut some petroleum jelly just inside your nostrils to trap some of the pollen.

D on’t mow the grass or sit in fields or large areas of grass.

Wash your hands and face regularly.

Avoid exposure to other allergens, such as pet fur, or environmental irritants, such as insect sprays or tobacco smoke.

Hay fever treatment As with most allergies, the best way to control hay fever is to avoid the triggers. However, it’s difficult to avoid pollen, particularly during the summer.

Even straightforward hay fever can be debilitating, causing runny eyes, sleepless nights, bunged-up nose and headaches. A range of over-thecounter products can treat the symptoms of hay fever, including tablets, nasal sprays, eye drops and creams. Antihistamines are the usual treatment for the main symptoms, such as itchy, watery eyes and runny nose, while steroid nasal sprays are the main treatment for a stuffy nose.

Hay fever in pregnancy Hay fever during pregnancy can be a particular problem.

Hormonal changes make nasal congestion more common during pregnancy, and this often gets worse during hay fever season. Pregnant women are also advised not to take some hay fever medicines.

Hay fever and asthma Speak to your GP or pharmacist before you decide on a hay fever treatment. It’s particularly important to speak to your GP if you have asthma. Hay fever often makes asthma symptoms worse. If this happens, you may need to increase the dosage of your asthma medication.

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h e alt h & b e au t y

The sun is your skin’s biggest beauty enemy. With ozone levels at a record low and ultraviolet levels at all an all-time high, SPF should be part of our daily regimes, not something we reserve for holidays and heatwaves. By Lisa Haynes, Press Association

Soltan Dry Touch Spray SPF15, £12 (Boots)

HERE COMES THE SUN Eau Thermale Avene SPF50 Very High Protection Emulsion, £16 (Boots)

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early a quarter of Brits (22%) only wear SPF when on holiday abroad, according to new research by Boots. Luckily, the suncare industry is one step ahead, with high-tech formulations and skin-enhancing ingredients to make application easier. “We are all guilty of neglecting our skin on occasion, but skin cancer rates are on the rise, so it’s more important now than ever to keep protected,” says Dr Sam Bunting, cosmetic dermatologist. Be a safe sun goddess with our expert golden guide.

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DILEMMA: I have leftover suncare from last summer and I’m not sure if it’s safe to use.

SOLUTION: “By law, any cosmetic product (including sunscreens) has to have a shelf-life of at least 30 months, or it has to be labelled with a use-by date,” says Clare O’Connor, Boots UK suncare expert. “A product bought last summer should be fine DILEMMA: I’d like to use up this summer, but products to apply suncare in purchased two summers ago should the mornings and probably be replaced. If you want be able to put my to check a product, the best things clothes on immediately to do is to look at it and smell it. It afterwards. should appear bright and shiny with SOLUTION: “Look for no seepage of any liquid (either watery sun fluids with ‘Dry Touch’ or oily) and no separation. If there is Lancaster Sun Sport Dry technology,” Dr Bunting any contamination, there’s usually an Touch Gel recommends. “This type of ‘off’ smell and the product should be Dermalogica Protection SPF20, £21 50 Sport SPF50, £29.90 suncare was a breakthrough in (Selfridges) discarded.” (www.dermalogica.co.uk) the US in 2013 and addressed a significant barrier for people DILEMMA: My make-up contains who found sunscreen too thick SPF but I don’t know if this is and sticky for comfort. The sufficient to protect me against same technology is becoming the sun. more popular over in the UK SOLUTION: “With ‘SPF’ written now too.” on many make up products, it

Tried & tested

Beauty bulletin :: Beauty hoarding Women waste 5,846 beauty products in their lifetime, amounting to an overall worth of £180,000, according to a new survey by Vaseline. Just 10% - that’s 649 - of beauty items purchased are used. On average , women buy 840 moisturisers, 360 nail varnishes and 300 lipsticks. Men, on the other hand, own an average of 12 products per year, 960 in their lifetime overall, and use all (100%) of them. The top three unused products hoarded by women are: n ail varnishes, s hampoo and conditioner, and l ipsticks and lipglosses. :: Recessionista alert Celebrate Rush’s 20th anniversary with a beautifying gift. First-time customers can get 20% off a hair service or beauty treatment throughout May. Mention the code RUSH20 when booking your appointment or enter RUSH20 online to redeem 20% off one single treatment.

Available nationwide until May 31.

Visit www.rush.co.uk/offers/20thanniversary-offer

can be tempting to skip applying sun protection all together, but this can leave your skin dangerously exposed,” warns Paul Banwell, surgeon and skin cancer expert. “ The way you would apply foundation is unlikely to reach the SPF on the label.

Get into the habit of using a highfactor SPF daily and then applying your make-up on top, or choose a high-tech SPF tinted moisturiser or sun BB.”

Nails Inc limited edition Floral nail polish, £12 each(www.nailsinc.com)

Help even out skin tone from sun damage with complexion brightening pads.

Our testers boost their skin with three contenders: Origins Modern Friction Instant Brightening Pads, £31 for 40 pads, available June (www.origins.co.uk) These double-sided pads have quite an overwhelming, alcoholic smell. Advised to use twice weekly on clean skin, I applied the thin pad in a circular motion and felt a slight tingling sensation.

Afterwards, my complexion felt smoother and looked brighter.

Model photo: PA Photo/Thinkstockphotos . All images courtesy of PA Photo/Handout

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3/5

Riemann P20 Once a Day Spray SPF30, from £13.29 (nationwide)

which has a chart on the back of the bottle showing how many presses are needed to cover each body part.”

DILEMMA: I burn very easily and would like to boost my skin’s resistance to sun damage.

SOLUTION: “Apart from applying an SPF and avoiding peak Let your nails bloom to mark RHS times when the sun Chelsea Flower Show. Forget green is at its hottest, you fingers and pretty your talons with Nails can increase skin’s Inc’s new Floral polishes. There are protection five limited edition shades featuring by eating daisy-shaped matte glitter antioxidants particles, £12 each via fresh fruits (www.nailsinc.com). and vegetables, DILEMMA: I’m never or nutritional entirely sure if I’m wearing supplements,” enough SPF and how long each suggests Dr Luca Russo, bottle should last. lecturer in cosmetic Calypso with Press and Protect SPF30, £3.79 SOLUTION: “A full body application should dermatology. “ An excellent (leading chemists) utilise at least 35ml, to ensure maximum way to deliver powerful coverage and complete protection,” advises antioxidant protection to the Seena Seka, Calypso’s chief chemist. “ It’s skin is via topical application or often difficult to know how much is enough Mesotherapy, which inserts an when it comes to applying sun lotion to active cocktail of vitamins into yourself or your family, so look for guide the skin to provide key defence bottles like Calypso’s Press And Protect, where it is needed.”

:: bareMinerals Intensive Glow Pads Brightening Treatment, £34 for 60 pads (www.bareminerals.co.uk) Super-skinny pads but reasonably priced at £34 for a tower of 60. Powered

by ActiveSoil Complex, they felt soothing on my sensitive skin and, after continued use, my skin looked brighter and more even in tone.

4/5

:: Colbert MD Tone Control Facial Discs, £65 for 20 pads (uk.spacenk. com) These small but dense discs are packed with product and have a delicate scent.

I circled them over my face for 60 seconds at a time, as directed, and was greeted with a lovely post-facial glow.

A hefty price-per-pad, but an effective occasional skincare booster.

4/5

Buy iT now

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h ous e & ga r d e n

Simple and elegant...

shutters are the perfect focal point for any room

I

t may be the simplicity of shutters that makes them so effortlessly stunning – it’s almost certainly what makes them fit beautifully with so many design schemes. Whatever trend or look you’re going for in your home, you’re sure to find a shutter in a style and colour to complement your room perfectly – whether you’re looking for natural wood or a clean and contemporary painted finish.

But it’s not all about looks, shutters are incredibly practical too. As you’d expect, they provide excellent control over light and privacy, but there’s more to them than you might think. They also give fantastic insulation to windows – perfect for draughty homes – they’re easy to keep clean and they’re extremely hardwearing, so it’s not just their classic style that will stand the test of time.

Spoilt for choice If you’re sold on shutters but you’re not sure whether they’re within your budget, think again. There are so many ranges, from hardwood through to LDF, which make shutters an achievable option for most.

What’s more, there are a variety of shutter styles and finishes to choose from – you can even get bespoke shutters for shaped

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windows, and waterproof shutters for bathrooms. The options really are endless.

Local expertise Premier Shutters, based in Basildon, pride themselves on providing unrivalled experience for anyone looking for shutters for their home. Their staff live and breathe shutters, so you can be confident that you’ll not only get sound advice, you’ll also be absolutely delighted with the finished product.

Their specialist surveyors bring their knowledge – not to mention their wide range of samples – to you in your home. They’ll take precise measurements, offer simple guidance and leave a competitive quote – all without the pressure of a hard sell. You’ll be surprised just how many options there are when choosing shutters, so having a friendly expert on hand to answer questions and provide honest advice really is invaluable.

You can book a no-obligation home survey or simply request a brochure by calling FREE on 0808 250 2575 or visiting their website at www.premiershutters.co.uk

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C R EAT I V E C U R TAI N S & B L I N D S A Family Business est. 1985 We can come to you and cover a wide area Full measuring, design and fitting service Beautifully Made to Measure Curtains and All types of Blinds Wallpapers, Upholstery, Tracks, Poles and Accessories Quality products including our Starter Range to suit all budgets

www.creativecurtains.org Call our Showroom 0208 501 2342 or Call our Office 01727 808 287

Your local shutters specialist Request your free home survey for expert advice, measuring and a no-obligation quote Call FREE on 0808 250 2575 or visit premiershutters.co.uk

T’s & C’s apply

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JOHN BLY ANTIQUES

Ol’ Rockin’ Chair’s Got Me...

O

r rather a new one has. This is the star item in the Edward Barnsley Workshop Stand at the recent Masterpiece show in Chelsea. Now well established as a must-see part of the London Summer Season, Masterpiece enjoys an enviable reputation for its display of luxurious and collectable treasures from antiquity to contemporary.

And there’s not much more luxurious than sitting in Edward Barnsley’s chair. I was honoured by having it lifted off its dais and placed in the main isle where I took my seat and gently rocked away. I did not want to get up, but crowds started to gather as I snoozed away, assuming I was part of the exhibit. The antiques section that is.

The Barnsley chair is made of scorched oak and as an object of beauty it is a succession of curves without a single straight line; pure aesthetics. It was designed without computer programming, in the traditional way, and so it seems to fit any size to absolute perfection.

Of course the very essence of any rocking chair is that it is comfortable

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and most are, but the balance created by the precise position and angle of the seat and legs to the rockers can make the difference between going to sleep or not. It is often said the rocking chair was invented by Benjamin Franklin, but while it was certainly a North American innovation, rocking chairs were born well before he grew out of short trousers.

The first to arrive in England came around 1725 since when they have been made in every conceivable material and pattern, and in most European countries. Of these the Viennese Thonet bentwood version is among the best known but compared to Edward Barnsley’s even this can be quite hard work to get rocking.

Thinking again of Edward’s consistent contemporary take on traditional objects I wonder if this is the first time we’ve seen a Mod and a Rocker in perfect harmony.….not something we would have thought possible in the 1960’s.

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

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CreoGlass

Contemporary Designer Kitchen Glass Splashbacks As the economy recession is lifting and the property market is rapidly moving forward, newly acquired houses and businesses are in great need of a long overdue, contemporary and uplifting modernisation.

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f you are looking for a modern designer kitchen splash back, that will help you creatively express the character of your home, then look no further than the wide variety of bespoke and innovative glass splash backs available at CreoGlass. Here our unique designers are quickly being recognised as setting the benchmark within the interior design industry.

Key Facts F ree no obligations quotation H undreds of bespoke designs using glitters and minerals H eat resistant up to 400 degrees celsius B espoke measure and fit service available L ead time 2-3 weeks E asy to clean anti-bacterial surface M ounted with silicone or screws We offer dulux, RAL and Farrow and Ball colour match

Kitchen Glass Splashbacks have been tremendously popular in recent years and the demand for new ideas is growing year on year with high consumer expectations. CreoGlass has steadily evolved from the standard simplistic high-street options, and is now leading the way in bespoke designer finishes.

Our Unique Production Process

In 2013 we provided in total nearly five hundred kitchen glass splashbacks nation wide, and with over 400 different finishes and designs to choose from its easy to understand why glass splash backs are increasingly becoming the first choice for interior designers and kitchen fitters across the UK.

Many of our exclusive designs are produced using a unique multi-layer construction process, hand crafted by our extremely experienced skilled glass masters. Many of our designs are created using raw materials that are built up layer by layer to form beautiful contemporary structures, entirely unique to CreoGlass.

For more information about Creoglass Design Ltd. Unit D, 15-19 Park House, Greenhill Crescent, Watford, WD18 8PH, London, UK Telephone: 0800 021 4807 Email: info@creoglass.co.uk Web: www.creoglass.co.uk 6 8 j u ly 2 0 1 4

LE N SA W O NO www.fineback.co.uk 7-9 Haseldine Road London Colney St. Albans Herts AL2 1RR (One mile to Jct 22 of the M25) Hours of business: Mon – Sat 9.00am to 5.00pm.

01727 827744

Switch to a new level of comfort.

Come and discover the RHINE from himolla’s Cumuly range.

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

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Embracing the future...

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e are always keeping our eye out for the newest innovation, by constantly searching for modernised products to add to our current range. There are a number of new contemporary options for you to choose from; Large pane sliding doors, sliding flat glass roof lights, floating corner bifold doors, remote control electrically operated blinds, switchable glass among just a few of the products Herts Bifold Doors are able to offer to you.

Recently we have installed our first set of large pane sliding doors, this magnificent product goes up to a width of 3m per door and 3m high! Each of these large panes are able to lift and slide behind the other to open up your home, each large pane of glass allows the maximum amount of light into the room.

The sky is the limit where our roof lights are concerned, alongside large double hipped roof lights and flat roof lights which hinge open upwards we are now able to offer flat roof lights where the top slides across. Whether letting in the summer sunshine or watching the winter rain these roof lights

are designed to keep the elements at bay.

With all of this glass and these amazing views who wouldn’t want to put their feet up and control there blinds remotely, we offer both between the glass blinds units for our doors where by the blinds are fitted between the double glazed glass units (also available in manual) as well as external roller blinds to match either your walls or your doors, these can be on a number of motors allowing you to block out the sun as it moves around the room, have the blinds down over the closed doors and leaving the open door clear.

With every new product development it has become apparent the glazing industry is relentlessly coming on leaps and bounds to bring you, the customer the best products possible.

Herts Bifold Doors & G&N Windows Unit 8 The Gryphon Industrial Unit Porters Wood, St Albans, Herts AL3 6XZ Tel: 01727 845600 www.hertsbifolddoors.co.uk | www.gnwindows.co.uk

Large Pane Sliding Door Installation...

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h ous e & ga r d e n

TAKE THE PLUNGE WHEN IT COMES TO MAKING A DECISION THE HEAD OFTEN RULES THE HEART, AND IN THE MAJORITY OF CASES WE ARE FOUR TIMES MORE LIKELY TO MAKE A DECISION BY WEIGHING UP THE PROS AND CONS, THAN GO WITH OUR INSTINCTS.

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hen it comes to making a decision the head often rules the heart, and in the majority of cases we are four times more likely to make a decision by weighing up the pros and cons, than go with our instincts.

Heels or flats? We make tons of quick decisions every day, but others we linger over for days. According to research commissioned by swimming pool company Origin Leisure, we find it easy to make really big decisions, but then agonise over the smaller details.

We trust our gut for life-changing decisions, but ironically we then sweat the small stuff. In fact, over a third of us admit to knowing instantly that our current home was ‘the one’, but it then often takes us days, weeks or even years to decide on improvements such as installing a new kitchen or adding a conservatory.

When it comes to home improvement, it doesn’t come much more luxurious than an indoor swimming pool, and while it’s important to consider all the details, the research showed that spending too much time agonising over the decision can be counterproductive.

Gary Taylor of Origin Leisure said: “In our 30 year experience we’ve found that people wish they’d spent less time deliberating and more time enjoying the fruits of their decision making. If it will make you and your family happy, just get on, 7 2 j u ly 2 0 1 4

listen to your instinct and enjoy it!”

For anybody wanting to take the plunge with the ultimate home improvement, here are the answers to the key questions to help you make your decision.

HOW MUCH IS IT GOING TO COST? e cost depends on a multitude of factors, from the size and shape of the pool, right down to the choice of materials. An indoor pool can cost from £135,000 to £250,000 and upwards, depending on your design. A good place to start is to decide on a budget and ask your swimming pool company to tailor the design to the amount you’d like to spend.

WHAT ARE THE RUNNING COSTS? Don’t forget to factor in the weekly, monthly and yearly expenses for heating, chemicals and maintenance. e ongoing costs will depend entirely on the design of your pool, how it’s used by your family, and your choice of heat source. An experienced swimming pool company will advise you on the ongoing costs and offer advice on keeping them as low as possible.

HOW ECO FRIENDLY IS A SWIMMING POOL? Whether or not the swimming pool will be eco friendly is an important factor to some homeowners. If you’re concerned about the environmental impact of the pool, or simply want to lower running costs, eco models are available. Origin Leisure’s

h ous e & ga r d e n Eco Pool House incorporates the very latest building materials for energy efficiency to reduce running costs once the pool is complete.

DO I NEED PLANNING PERMISSION? Adding an Origin swimming pool to your home has never been easier! Changes to permitted development rights mean you may not require planning permission at all - even if planning permission was previously denied. Use a specialist swimming pool company to guide you through the procedure, advising you on the necessary steps to take, which will speed up the process significantly.

HOW LONG WILL THE PROJECT TAKE? e length of time it takes to install a swimming pool depends entirely on the design; the size, shape and type of swimming pool will vary the timescale from project to project. It’s best to allow at least 20 weeks for the pool to be completed.

WHAT SWIMMING POOL DESIGN IS BEST FOR ME AND MY FAMILY? While pool houses were previously simple pine chalets, today indoor swimming pool design has evolved and we now expect the same style, quality and finish in the pool house as we would in our own homes. But, with so much choice it’s no wonder we’re left scratching our heads when making a decision. Origin Leisure has designed a range of popular indoor swimming pool models that can be tailored for you.

WHO WILL OVERSEE EACH STAGE OF THE PROJECT? It helps to talk to a swimming pool company that can oversee the whole project from start to finish. is way, you will have one point of contact and don’t need to project manage any of the design or building process.

HOW MUCH MAINTENANCE IS REQUIRED? e after care for a swimming pool is easy, but for those who’d like a helping hand, the experts at Origin Leisure also offer a full maintenance service, giving you as much or as little help as you need to maintain the upkeep of your pool.

THE BENEFITS OF A HOME SWIMMING POOL TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY While taking the plunge may seem daunting, making the decision brings measurable benefits. A swimming pool from Origin Leisure provides new ways of having fun, spending precious time together as a family, even making a ‘staycation’ seem more appealing. e additional space is perfect for entertaining and socialising with friends and family, and the design can include a kitchen, seating or bar.

Access to a pool right on your doorstep means it’s easy to swim every day in the privacy of your own home, either to maintain a healthy lifestyle or simply as a space to relax.

Whatever your decision, the experts at Origin Leisure are available to help create your home swimming pool. With over 30 years experience creating beautiful domestic swimming pools, the company manages every stage of the project from start to finish, giving you the confidence and freedom to enjoy your decision.

To speak to the experts at Origin Leisure call 01895 823366 or visit www.originleisure.com ■

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h h ous ous e e & & ga ga r rd de en n

Do you love proper furniture?

(So do we, that’s why we’ve been importing it for over 50 years.)

Our Origins

people only dream of.

Wharfside Furniture was founded by Nathaniel Stewart in 1962.

Originally a carpenter in the bustling furniture centre of Shoreditch, London, Nathaniel was one of the first to import dining furniture from Denmark.

We also have an M25 showroom, located in Leatherhead, Surrey. This shop, with its high street store-front and its friendly, experienced staff, is the ideal place to experience Wharfside Furniture.

Our future

The Scandinavian aesthetic appealed to the UK market, as did the superb quality, and Wharfside became known as the direct source for Danish furniture. Today we have happy customers who first bought their dining suite as newly marrieds in the 1960’s.

Who we are today Nathaniel’s son Jonathan took over the business in the 1980’s.

Jonathan raised Wharfside to a new level of luxury. We now specialise in bespoke furniture; wall units, kitchens, dining, lounge and bedroom furniture designed and made to order. Since our factories are small and specialist, and our staff have years of experience, we are able to provide a level of service which is unparalleled.

Jonathan introduced the award-winning Austrian company, Team7 to the UK. Team7 are known worldwide for their luxurious designs, the finest European hardwoods and an uncompromising commitment to the environment.

Today, our warehouse is still located in Shoreditch, which is now the capital’s coolest district. With exposed brickwork, steel girders, and a glass roof, the large showroom is an icon in its own right. It also happens to be a treasure trove for lovers of luxury furniture.

Take the time to explore and you will discover furniture most 74 0 jJ u Ul Ly Y 2 20 01 14 4

Team7 solid wood bespoke kitchens have never before been seen in the UK. The solid European hardwood, finished only with pure natural oils, creates a healthy environment ideally suited for the kitchen. The designs are contemporary, the finish is superior and the options are extensive.

We now sell worldwide. Our online presence means that we take orders from all over the world every day. We also have many happy customers who will use us to furnish their properties abroad as well as at home.

Our third generation, Alex Stewart (http://www.alexnstewart.com) is a sculptor who has created an artists’ studio within the Shoreditch warehouse. Feel free to request a tour when you come to visit the showroom.

So, what is proper furniture?

By ‘proper’ we mean well-made, well-designed, and well... beautiful.

We are passionate about wonderful furniture, and we believe that you could be too. Inspired? Come visit us in Shoreditch or Leatherhead or online at www.wharfside.co.uk. You won’t regret it.

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h ous e & ga r d e n Harpenden

Dive Into Nature With A Natural Swimming Pond

“It’s an immaculate temperature, that’s the first thing. And it doesn’t feel like swimming anywhere else, it doesn’t feel like the sea, it doesn’t feel like a salt water pool, it feels incredibly fresh,” says Matthew Van Grutten, one of the visitors at a recent swimming pond open day. “It’s a very special feeling. Overall, an immaculate experience.”

“It feels so clean,” agrees Wendy Smith, another visitor at the open day.

“It’s like having a really nice bath.”

“The water’s lovely, really crystal clear,” says Chris Graham, swimming pond owner in Princes Risborough, Buckinghamshire, where Gartenart hold an open day every year. “You could read a book on the bottom if you threw it down there.”

Swimming ponds - or natural swimming pools (the terms mean the same) have been growing in popularity in the UK for several years now, particularly in those locations where maintaining the natural outlook is of prime importance. “I wanted to be able to sit and look out from the garden and see nothing unnatural,” says Sacha Cole, whose swimming pond was installed in Harpenden, Hertfordshire. “I wanted the pond to be part of a view that flowed seamlessly from the garden to the countryside beyond... I love the natural beauty of it, the way it grows and becomes part of the garden.”

But how can what is essentially a wildlife pond actually stay clean?

“A swimming pond works by keeping the nutrient level in the water very low,” explains Tim Evans, managing director of Gartenart, who have built over one hundred swimming ponds in the UK in the last ten years. “Under these conditions water naturally stays clean and clear, like a lake you may

Princes Risborough

7 6 j u ly 2 0 1 4

Kings Langley

come across in the mountains. The water there is clear and even drinkable, not because of the temperature, but because there is very little nutrient input. The natural microscopic processes in the water then remain in balance, and the result is clear and healthy water.”

This is unlike the water in most wildlife ponds we see around us, which as we well know, is usually not something you would want to dive into. The reason for this is that the nutrient level in these ponds is invariably very high, with run-off from roads, fields, and decomposing organic matter from leaves and other plant life. A swimming pond is set up to minimise this input of nutrients, and the water in the pond is also circulated internally to reduce the nutrient level further still.

How about temperature? Surely it’s just too cold to swim regularly in unheated water in this country?

Well, apparently not, according to swimming pond owners, with most reporting temperatures of 22-24 degrees throughout the summer and even up to 26-27 degrees in warm periods, due to the shallow planting areas heating up quickly in the sun. It is, however, possible to add heating if you wish.

The other common question is around costs.

A swimming pond starts from £70,000 incl VAT for a naturally designed pond, and most domestic-sized swimming ponds suitable for family use cost between £80-£100,000 incl VAT. Features such as heating, tiling etc, of course add to this.

For more details please visit www.gartenart.co.uk or call 020 7183 3333

Princes Risborough

TO 0%

BRITAIN’S FAVOURITE ARTIFICIAL GRASS R • NO MORE WEEDING, O NIO MOWING, T S E S N P E Z WATERING U % FEEDING, CITI COUNT DIS MUD AND MESS 50 • NO MORE IOR S N E S ZEN CITI COUNT DIS

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• DOG, CAT & CHILDREN FRIENDLY • NO WORN OR DISCOLOURED PATCHES • ENJOY 365 DAYS OF LUSH GREEN PILE WITH A NATURAL BOUNCY FEEL

Call now for a FREE survey of your garden and a FREE no obligation quotation

01442 878711

EVERGREEN GRASS, Buttons Yard, Pix Farm Lane, Hemel Hempstead Herts. HP1 2RY

UPVC

Fascias & Soffits

e We will beat any WE PAY T fetimntee i L A uara like for like quote THE V BEFORE G AFTER - FREE Survey and Quotation NEVER KNOWINGLY UNDERSOLD!

FLAT

ROOF PROBLEMS?

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BEFORE

Leaking, Cracking, Splitting, Blistering or just old?

We will beat any like for like quote - FREE Survey and Quotation. Call us for a FREE SURVEY...

The Fascia, Soffit and Flat Roof Company

30 GuaraYear ntee

AFTER

0500 855844 Head Office: Buttons Yard, Pix Farm Lane Hemel Hempstead, Herts. HP1 2RY Tel: 01442 875600 Fax: 01442 875200 www.homecountiescladding.co.uk e:sales@homecountiescladding.co.uk

h ous e & ga r d e n

H OUS E & GA R D E N

Making an impression

“You never get a second chance to make a good first impression” ... so the saYing goes. from the grandest of countrY estates to the humblest of homesteads the same holds true

A

mong the first things a guest sees on a visit is the house name or number sign. A Lead sign from Redfields exudes true class, an understated style that would become both castle and cottage. Lead has a beautiful, blue-grey patina that mellows with the passing seasons, a natural hue that blends well with all colours of brick, stone and stucco. Lettering can be accentuated in complimentary colours and either burnished or antiqued at your request.

Redfields signs are made to last, when wood rots, cast iron rusts and slate laminates, lead remains. Lead is renowned for its incredible durability, indeed some Roman lead plumbing is still in service to this very day.

Lead’s malleability allows it to be easily bent to follow the curve of a wall or tree.

Redfields signs are available in a variety of 2 2 J U LY 2 0 1 4

shapes and sizes and they will happily quote for bespoke designs. Signs can be made double sided for hanging and they can supply beautiful English wrought iron brackets and posts to suit.

Redfields signs are individually hand crafted from the purest refined lead at their Hampshire foundry. The signs are made from old wooden patterns in the traditional way.

Letters and numbers are laterally inverted

(mirror image) and aligned by eye before the sign is moulded in sand.

Redfields is a small company of craftsmen specialising in the design, manufacture and restoration of decorative leadwork. They catalogue a wide range of fantastic garden ornaments including statues, fountains, planters, cisterns and sundials. Redfields specialises in bespoke planters and window boxes, it is their greatest pleasure working with their customers from thumbnail sketch through to the installation of a unique garden feature. Paul Henson at Redfields says “there is nothing more satisfying than installing a beautiful statue and leaving it to patinate and mellow into its new home for generations”...

Nice work if you can get it.

Telephone: 02392 870000 Email: sales@redfields.co.uk www.redfields.co.uk j u ly 2 0 1 4 7 9

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

PROPERTY LIFE T H E

L A T E S T

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Marsh Lane

Discreetly set back from the road behind security gates lies Nairn House, an imposing substantial family home extending to approx 8000 sq ft.

price guide ÂŁ4,795,000 freehold J u ly 2 0 1 4 8 1

p r o p e rt y

Pennywell Manor Fortune Lane, Elstree

P

ennywell Manor is undoubtedly one of the most prestigious homes in Hertfordshire. A truly impressive home in style, design, technology and specification, Situated at the end of a quiet country lane, this magnificent home offers a stunning fusion of traditional character to the exterior and contemporary, state of the art features within.

Having been extensively refurbished, this is an exceptional unique residence set within private grounds of approximately 1 acre, enjoying breath taking panoramic countryside views. Positioned in an idyllic and peaceful location, yet conveniently located close to Elstree Village and exceptional local schooling including Haberdasher’s Aske’s, Aldenham and Edge Grove. This outstanding home also benefits from 6 bedrooms, open-plan kitchen breakfast room, a lavish cinema room, gym, indoor swimming pool and steamroom as well as a stunning double-height feature glass atrium.

Guide Price £4,250,000

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

8 2 j u ly 2 0 1 4

Features et in landscaped gardens S approaching 1 acre ull height feature windows F in master bedroom and bedroom 2 errace to master bedroom, T finished with western red cedar cladding and glass balustrading ir conditioning to principal A reception room, kitchen/ family room, cinema room and master bedroom “ Smart Home” integrated home management system allowing control of sound, vision, security, lighting and heating. Control via integrated iPads/iPod/iTouch and-made cabinetry, H vanity units and wardrobes in a combination of natural walnut veneers and glass pacious and impressive S main and inner reception halls with large format Italian porcelain floor tiles, contemporary fireplace and seating area Underfloor heating

throughout with individual digital touch screen thermostatic controls

cedar and Italian porcelain

SAIB approved alarm S system with panic buttons - detects and reports intrusion, fire and carbon monoxide warnings to clients monitoring facility.

Keypads located in entrance hall, first floor landing and garage

team room with shower S and audio system

ully-tiles floors and walls to F bathrooms and steam room in porcelain and mosaics merican walnut internal A doors throughout ouble garage with remoteD controlled opening sectional door dditional private parking A for a minimum of four further cars I ndividually designed external lighting to driveway and landscaped areas plit-level sun-terrace and S decked relaxation area to contemporary design finished with western red

ully stocked and planted F kitchen garden

inema room with Dolby 5.1 C surround-sound and drinks cabinet with wine fridge and sink concealed in handmade bespoke walnut cabinetry espoke kitchen cabinetry B

by Poggenpohl in a combination of lacquered taupe and Marsh Oak veneer ange of Miele appliances R which include two Miele multifunction ovens, combination microwave over, coffee machine, dishwasher, induction hob and integrated full height fridge espoke fully-tiled designer B bathrooms tunning Swimming Pool S complex with Jacuzzi, Sauna, air conditioning and Shower Room.

0 year Premier Guarantee 1 home warranty

From Cottages to Country Estates

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

CUFFLEY £2,750,000

HADLEY GREEN OIEO £2,500,000

HADLEY WOOD OIEO £2,500,000

5 Bedrooms 4 Receptions 4 Bathrooms Approx.

5000 sq ft of Living Space Set in a Beautiful Spot in Gardens of Approx. 1.5 Acres Large Secluded Frontage Accessed Via Electronic Gates

3 Bedrooms 4 Receptions 1 Bathroom Located in a Prime Position Overlooking Hadley Green Set on a Plot of Approx. 1 Acre Secluded Landscaped Gardens

8 Bedrooms 6 Receptions 6 Bathrooms Detached Residence of over 6400 sq ft, Indoor Leisure Complex with Gym and Wet Room/Sauna Landscaped Rear Garden with Swimming Pool

Brookmans Park Office 01707 661144

Barnet Office 020 8449 3383

Hadley Wood Office 020 8440 9797

WHETSTONE OIEO £1,600,000 6 Bedrooms 4 Receptions 3 Bathrooms Spacious Kitchen/Breakfast Room Extensive Rear Garden with Terrace and Outdoor Swimming Pool

RADLETT £1,550,000

6 Bedrooms 4 Receptions 4 Bathrooms Detached Residence in Excess of 3600 sq ft Designer Fitted Kitchen Southerly Aspect Rear Garden Abutting Hadley Woods

Hadley Wood Office 020 8440 9797

Totteridge Office 020 8445 3694

Radlett Office 01923 604 321

HADLEY WOOD

£1,850,000

TOTTERIDGE £1,500,000 Rarely Available 3 Bedrooms 2 Receptions 1 Bathroom Development Potential STPP Large Frontage Adjacent to Totteridge Green Secluded Gardens

Totteridge Office 020 8445 3694

NEW BARNET

£1,150,000

5 Bedrooms 5 Receptions 2 Bathrooms Potential Development Opportunity STPP Fantastic Rear Garden of Approx. 246 ft with Heated Swimming Pool and Enclosed Tennis Court

CUFFLEY £1,150,000

5 Bedrooms 3 Receptions 2 Bathrooms Set Over 3 Levels of over 2100 Sq Ft Bright Conservatory Double Garage Stunning Landscaped Private Rear Garden

5 Bedrooms 4 Receptions 3 Bathrooms Set Behind Electric Gates Recently Constructed Luxury Fitted Kitchen Cinema Room Rear Garden with Extensive Decked Terracing

Barnet Office 020 8449 3383

Brookmans Park Office 01707 661144

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

p r o p e rt y

Barlodian House Totteridge, London T

he property comprises a detached Georgian style four bedroom house which was built circa 1965. The house is set back from the road by a large carriage drive discreetly floodlit and with security gates. The house has extensive landscaped gardens with a beautiful swimming pool and designer lighting to enjoy the view on summer evenings.

At the rear is a separate annex accessed through a secure gate from the garden or via an exclusive side road from Hill Crescent to the rear drive where there is additional space for car parking. The annex has two stories with a large double garage and a separate gym and shower/ toilet facility on the ground floor and an office with separate toilet and kitchenette on the first floor. This office has broadband supply and has been VAT apportioned for business use. There is a separate toilet and store for the gardener at the rear of the garden and where the automatic irrigation system is installed.

by a loft ladder, covering the whole area of the house and currently used for storage but suitable for conversion to further living space.

The property comprises reception vestibule drawing room dining room family room kitchen/breakfast room master bedroom with balcony, dressing area and en suite bathroom guest bedroom with en suite shower room 2 further bedrooms with balconies family bathroom utility room cloakroom Outbuilding double garage gymnasium shower room office with kitchenette and cloakroom gardener’s wc Outside gated access parking area sun terrace mature landscaped gardens heated swimming pool 361 sq m (3,879 sq ft) EPC = D Guide Price £3,000,000 Freehold

On the ground floor of the main house are Reception Hall, Drawing Room, Dining Room, TV Room, Guest Cloakroom, Kitchen/Breakfast Room, and Utility Room. On the first floor there is a Master Bedroom with a balcony an en suite Bathroom and a Dressing room, Bedroom 2 with en suite Shower Room, Bedroom 3 with vanity unit and balcony, Bedroom 4 with balcony.

There is also a large Guest/Family Bathroom. There is a large loft, accessible

8 4 j u ly 2 0 1 4

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

1 2

savills.co.uk

RADLETT, hertfordshire

ARKLEY, hertfordshire

2 reception rooms ø kitchen/family room ø 7 bedrooms ø 7 bathrooms (5 en suite) ø 2 studies ø games room ø annex ø swimming pool ø tennis court ø double garage/gym ø EPC=C

4 reception rooms ø 6/7 bedrooms ø 2 bathrooms ø kitchen/separate breakfast room ø study/bedroom 7 ø heated covered swimming pool ø gardens about 400 ft ø garage & workshop ø 343 sq m (3,699 sq ft) ø EPC=C

Guide £6 million Freehold

Guide £2.25 million Freehold

Savills Barnet gantoniou@savills.com 020 8447 4400

Savills Barnet gantoniou@savills.com 020 8447 4400

MILL HILL, london

HADLEY WOOD, hertfordshire

3/4 receptions ø kitchen/breakfast room ø 3/4 bedrooms (2 dressing rooms) ø 3 bath/shower rooms (1 en suite) ø utility ø secluded garden ø off street parking ø 193 sq m (2,085 sq ft) ø EPC = D

2 reception rooms ø open plan kitchen/dining area ø 4 bedrooms (2 en suite) ø family bathroom ø guest cloakroom ø gardens ø garaging ø 202 sq m (2,175 sq ft) ø EPC = D

Offers in excess of £1.4 million Freehold

Guide £1.325 million Freehold

Savills Barnet gantoniou@savills.com 020 8447 4400

Savills Barnet gantoniou@savills.com 020 8447 4400

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sales

Flower Lane £1,850,000 freehold

A recently refurbished double fronted, five bed, four bath detached family home situated within close proximity to Mill Hill Broadway’s shops and Thames Link Station.

THE OWNERS LOVE “The bright and spacious open plan living is ideal for dinner parties and entertaining family and friends” “We are walking distance to our GP, Mathilda Marks, shops, cafes and transport, the location really is ideal” “Our patio area, we enjoy relaxing in the sunshine and are not overlooked by anybody”

5 Bedrooms 2 Receptions Open plan kitchen/diner 4 Bathrooms Utility room Under floor heating throughout Self contained annexe Off street parking

EPC Rating : B

Please contact Jamie McIver at MILL HILL office on 020 8906 0660

Broughton Avenue, Finchley, N3 £1,895,000 Freehold A modern built seven bedroom detached family home available chain free!

THE OWNERS LOVE

“We built this house and spared no expense on quality of kitchen, bathrooms and fixtures and fittings” “Having so much space over different levels means the house is great for entertaining and putting up family who travel to visit” “The road is very family orientated and we have made many friends living in the area”

WE’VE NOTICED

To appreciate the quality of this property you must arrange a viewing.

The house is well located for Synagogues’, open spaces and transport links including A406 & M1 with direct links to the North.

EPC rating: C Please contact Sophie Henry at Finchley Central office on 020 8346 0102

7 Bedrooms Approx. 3500 sq ft Utility room Roof terrace from first floor bedroom 2 Guest cloakrooms Solid oak central staircase Fresh air system pumped into lower ground floor Within the Eruv

sales

Flower Lane £1,850,000 freehold

A recently refurbished double fronted, five bed, four bath detached family home situated within close proximity to Mill Hill Broadway’s shops and Thames Link Station.

THE OWNERS LOVE “The bright and spacious open plan living is ideal for dinner parties and entertaining family and friends” “We are walking distance to our GP, Mathilda Marks, shops, cafes and transport, the location really is ideal” “Our patio area, we enjoy relaxing in the sunshine and are not overlooked by anybody”

5 Bedrooms 2 Receptions Open plan kitchen/diner 4 Bathrooms Utility room Under floor heating throughout Self contained annexe Off street parking

EPC Rating : B

Please contact Jamie McIver at MILL HILL office on 020 8906 0660

Grimsdyke Crescent, Arkley, EN5 £1,200,000 freehold Five bedroom four reception room house with large landscaped garden.

THE OWNERS LOVE

“For us, this has been a perfect location – the green belt at one end of the road, a major bus route and tube at the other, easy walking distance to two great primary schools and a top secondary school and good shopping in Barnet town centre two minutes drive away” “The house has been a wonderful family home over the past 20 years, adapting to our needs so easily as we’ve grown from a young couple to a family of five adults!”

“The garden is our great love. It’s south facing and secluded, but perfect too for a football or badminton match and for so many summer parties”

WE’VE NOTICED

Whilst this property has been sympathetically extended there is potential to extend further subject to the usual planning consents.

This peaceful cul-de-sac location offers beautiful views of the adjacent greenbelt area.

EPC rating: D Please contact Susan Bradford at barnet office on 020 8440 2444

5 Bedrooms (4 doubles) 4 Reception rooms 2 En suite bathrooms Modern kitchen opening to dining area Utility room 130ft South west facing garden with summer house Sympathetically extended Offered chain free

pennywell manor Elstree WD6

ÂŁ4,250,000 freehold

Pennywell Manor is undoubtedly one of the most prestigious homes in Hertfordshire. A truly stunning home in style, design, technology and specification , discreetly situated at the end of a quiet country lane. This magnificent home offers a stunning fusion of traditional character to the exterior and contemporary, state of the art features within.

Having been extensively refurbished and rebuilt, this exceptional unique residence set within substantial private grounds offers

Features S et in gorgeous landscaped gardens errace to master bedroom, finished with western red cedar cladding T and glass balustrading A ir conditioning to principal reception room, kitchen/family room, cinema room and master bedroom “ Smart Home� integrated home management system allowing control of sound, vision, security, lighting and heating. Control via integrated iPads/iPod/iTouch H and-made cabinetry, vanity units and wardrobes in a combination of natural walnut veneers and glass U nderfloor heating throughout with individual digital touch screen thermostatic controls D ouble garage with remote-controlled opening sectional door with Additional private parking for a minimum of six further cars S team room with shower and audio system C inema room with Dolby 5.1 surround-sound and drinks cabinet with wine fridge and sink concealed in handmade bespoke walnut cabinetry B espoke kitchen cabinetry by Poggenpohl with Miele appliances S tunning Swimming Pool complex with Jacuzzi, Sauna, air conditioning and Shower Room.

incredible breathtaking panoramic countryside views over greenbelt and towards London. Positioned in an idyllic and peaceful location, yet conveniently located close to Elstree Village and exceptional local schooling. This outstanding home benefits from 6 bedrooms, stunning Poggenpohl kitchen opening to breakfast room, drawing room, lavish cinema room, gym, indoor swimming pool and steam room, as well as a stunning double-height feature glass atrium , garaging for 3 cars and further parking for at least 6 others.

Mill Hill Office

59 Daws Lane,Mill Hill London NW7 4SE

T +44 (0) 20 8959 9000

enquire@godfreyandbarr.com godfreyandbarr.com

godfreyandbarr.com

Pine Grove Totteridge N20

To Let ÂŁ3,000 Per Week Fees Apply A gorgeous imposing, large detached 6/7 bedroom family house in this prestigious turning offering approximately 6,000 sq ft of accommodation over 4 floors. Offered in immaculate order throughout, this fantastic home offers numerous features including a large snooker room / den on the garden level, separate staff accommodation, a large garage, multi room Sonos sound system and stunning 140 ft rear garden backing directly onto South Herts Golf Club with incredible far reaching views.

Master suite with en suite bathroom & dressing room 6 further bedrooms 6 further Bathrooms (6 en suite) Lounge

Mill Hill Office

59 Daws Lane, Mill Hill London NW7 4SE

ining room D Kitchen Morning room Snooker room / den Utility room

arage G Staff accomodation Large 140 ft rear garden backing directly onto South Herts golf club Carriage driveway with parking for 5/6 cars

T +44 (0) 20 8959 9000

enquire@godfreyandbarr.com godfreyandbarr.com

godfreyandbarr.com

The Reddings Mill Hill NW7

ÂŁ1,250,000 freehold Having been totally refurbished & modernised by the current owners, this stunning architect designed large 5/6 bedroom family house offers 2676 sq ft of fantastic accommodation over 4 floors. Features include a magnificent Barget kitchen / diner open plan to reception with bi-fold doors opening to a South facing terrace & garden, master suite on the basement / garden level with bi-fold doors, 5 further bedrooms, playroom/den and utility room. Further benefits include underfloor heating to ground floor & basement, electric awning & shades, mature landscaped garden with irrigation, as well as a purpose built wood & stainless steel contemporary Summer house/office at the end of the garden.

5/6 Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms (3 en suite ) Stunning open plan kitchen diner/Family room with doors to terrace Tv room

Mill Hill Office

59 Daws Lane, Mill Hill London NW7 4SE

eception/Den R Utility room Detached annexe/summer house Parking Landscaped gardens

nderfloor heating to ground and U basement floors Irrigation Multi room sound Sole agents

T +44 (0) 20 8959 9000

enquire@godfreyandbarr.com godfreyandbarr.com

godfreyandbarr.com

Crown Close Mill Hill NW7

£3,250,000 freehold An imposing grand newly built 7 bedroom, 7 bathroom (all en suite) Arts & Crafts style detached family house having been completed in 2012.

Set in grounds of approximately half an acre offering 4643 square ft of spacious accommodation over 3 floors, “Lime Wood” is set back from the road discretely located behind security gates in a prestigious cul de sac of only 3 houses on the borders of Mill Hill & Totteridge located just off Highwood Hill with incredible views from the rear towards green belt land. Built around a magnificent bespoke limestone & wrought iron grand sweeping staircase opening to a triple height reception hall, this luxury home boasts a stylish & exceptionally well presented interior offering numerous features including a sumptuous master suite with his & hers dressing rooms & bathrooms, 3/4 separate reception rooms, a huge kitchen family room, underfloor heating, multi room sound, Lutron lighting, partial air conditioning, detached garage with store room & off street secure parking for numerous vehicles.

Bedrooms with 7 en suite bathrooms 7 Lounge Dining room Huge kitchen breakfast room opening to morning room/den

Mill Hill Office

59 Daws Lane, Mill Hill London NW7 4SE

tudy / den S Utility room Stunning large entrance hall with triple volume ceiling and sweeping Limestone staircase

arage G Front and rear gardens Rear garden with views towards green belt land Underfloor heating

uge frontage with off street parking for H numerous cars Air conditioning Lutron lighting Multi room sound

T +44 (0) 20 8959 9000

enquire@godfreyandbarr.com godfreyandbarr.com

Marsh Lane Mill Hill NW7

ÂŁ4,795,000 freehold Discreetly set back from the road behind security gates lies Nairn House, an imposing substantial family home extending to approx 8000 sq ft. This fantastic family home offers spacious accommodation over 4 floors including 7 bedrooms, 6 reception rooms, a large 2500 sq ft basement/garden level with indoor swimming pool/changing facilities with further games room, utility room and playroom/den/cinema. Further features include a gorgeous master suite with dressing room and bathroom overlooking the magnificent double volume galleried reception area with huge floor to ceiling windows, home office with separate entrance, 140ft rear garden with raised terrace off the kitchen, and off street parking for numerous cars.

/7 bedrooms 6 5/6 bathrooms Stunning large reception with double volume ceiling and full height windows overlooking the garden Dining room Tv room/Den Kitchen breakfast room Large entrance hall

eated swiming pool H Study/home office with separate entrance Changing room Games room Den Utility room 140ft rear garden Terrace Off street parking for at least 10 cars

Mill Hill Office

59 Daws Lane,Mill Hill London NW7 4SE

T +44 (0) 20 8959 9000

enquire@godfreyandbarr.com godfreyandbarr.com

Designed with you in mind Imagine a new house that is designed especially for you, tailored to your needs and budget, incorporating all the style and f lair you have always wanted.

With over thirty years’ experience in building exceptional, award winning properties, who better than Octagon to make your dream home a reality, and what’s more, one that is delivered on time.

To discuss your wish list, please call or email John Pope, our Bespoke Director on 020 8481 7500 or email johnp@octagon.co.uk

www.octagonbespoke.com

p r o p e rt y

The National Association of Estate Agents appoints a

New President Simon Gerrard, Managing Director of Martyn Gerrard Estate Agents, appointed President

T

he In a ceremony held in Central London on 13th June, Simon Gerrard took over the Presidency of the National of Association of Estate Agents (NAEA). The NAEA is the UK’s leading professional body for estate agency and is part of a group that represents over 13,000 members who practise across all aspects of property services in the UK and overseas. As President one of Simon’s main aims is to raise the public awareness of the Association and ensure anyone who is selling or buying a home actively seeks out an NAEA member.

Simon Gerrard said “Many members of the public believe all estate agents are qualified and professional. However this is not the case. Not ALL estate agents are qualified; to become licensed by the NAEA means the agent has studied for and passed a nationally recognised qualification in the legal, technical and practical aspects of estate agency and property”.

“By using a licensed NAEA agent you can be sure you are consulting a qualified and experienced agent who can give you professional up to date advice and guidance. And for peace of mind a licensed NAEA agent also has Professional Indemnity Insurance and Client Money Protection”.

Simons role will also involve ensuring estate agents adhere to the associations code of practice – an aspect that Simon has been heavily involved in shaping over the years, designed to make sure members provide the most professional, efficient and user-friendly service. These practises have been exemplified at Martyn Gerrard for more than 50 years and Simon relishes the chance to help standardise the industry practises to emulate those held dear by all at Martyn Gerrard.

Having been in overall charge of the day to day operations at Martyn Gerrard since 2000, Simon has continued to uphold the Company’s tradition of friendly service and high professional standards, while at the same time introducing a new dynamic aspect to the business by embracing the latest innovative ideas and technologies.

If you are selling or buying a property in North & North West London contact your nearest Martyn Gerrard branch – each is licensed by the NAEA.

About Martyn Gerrard Martyn Gerrard Estate Agents are an independent family run firm.

Established in 1964 the company celebrated its 50th anniversary in May this year. The company handles residential and commercial sales and lettings, property management, block management, land and new homes and specialises in the North and North West London area.

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