from the
editor
Welcome to our January issue...
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escribed as the “Ronnie Scott’s of Surrey”, Guildford Jazz has a well-earned reputation for bringing some of the top jazz musicians in the country to a local audience, and it is becoming one of the most well-regarded clubs on the UK jazz circuit. With the 2014 festive season now a distant memory, it’s now time embrace 2015 and the coming months with new energy and enthusiasm. Dorking and surrounding villages, in the heart of the Surrey Hills, offer a wide selection of activities, from browsing the antique centre of Dorking in West Street, also the home of Dorking Museum or hiking the iconic Box Hill, there is something to cater for all tastes. Now in its 6th year, Denbies Burns Night Celebration is taking place on Saturday 24th January. Scottish dancing is the theme of the Denbies Wine Estate Burns Night Dinner Dance, including sparkling wine on arrival, 4 course meal including haggis neeps and tattis. Denbies wine with the meal accompanied throughout by live music including the piping of the haggis and Scottish ceilidh dance band with caller. This event is extremely popular and early reservations are strongly recommended. Elmbridge Choir and Elmbridge Ladies Choir, both part of the charity Surrey Music, participated in the competition element of the festival, performing four songs each before a panel of six eminent international judges.
Faye Manning Editor
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PUBLISHED BY THE FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD The Ridings, Woodfield Lane, Essendon, Herts, AL9 6JJ. 0844 800 8439 www.thelifemagazines.com Editor Faye Manning
Fashion Editor Hazel Englander
Accounts Kathy Manning, Ken Fleet
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Editor Assistant Katie Miller
account Manager Anita Hill
Sales James Marshall
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Sub Editor Alex Lux
Design/ Production Emma Andrews
Directors Rory Smith, Patrick Smith
LOVE
LOCAL
We feature fantastic local businesses and exciting nearby events each month
Afternoon tea by the fire at Langshott Manor Langshott Manor Hotel, Ladbroke Road, Horley, Near Gatwick, RH6 9LN, 01342 859702, www.alexanderhotels.co.uk
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Guildford Jazz jazz circuit. The club currently runs monthly jazz nights in two different venues: a Jazz Cafe evening in the bar at the Electric Theatre, and a Jazz Club night in the Pavilion at the Guildford and Godalming Rugby Club. Both venues are very popular with their welcoming and intimate “jazz club” feel, and they attract audiences from a wide area. The multi-award winning guests to the club have included world class players such Mark Nightingale, Alan Barnes, Dave O’Higgins, Paul Booth, Karen Sharp, Julian Arguelles, Iain Ballamy, Tina May, Nikki Iles, John Etheridge, Mark Lockheart, Bobby Wellins, Steve Waterman, Anita Wardell, Stan Sulzmann, Henry Lowther, and many more. The history of Guildford Jazz goes back to 1982, when Heather and Colin Tipton started putting on gigs at the Stoke Hotel in Guildford. They later moved venue and ran gigs for many years, until 2008 when the original committee disbanded. The name was revived in 2011 by local bass player Marianne Windham, who set up the Jazz At The Cavern club at the Freeholders in nearby Farncombe. Such was the early success of the club that at the end of 2012 the Electric Theatre asked Marianne to run a monthly Jazz Cafe night for them, and so, with the blessing of the original committee, the Guildford Jazz name was reborn. Last year the jazz night at the Freeholders moved to the Pavilion, which has proved to be the perfect space and location for the club, and the jazz nights there have become hugely popular.
Guildford Jazz has strong community links, and supports younger up and coming musicians Guildford Jazz also has strong community links, and supports younger up and coming musicians by providing opportunities for them to play at showcase events and running jazz improvisation workshops. Many of the tutors for the workshops teach at the top London Music Conservatoires, and these sessions are open to both students and other local musicians who would like to improve their own playing. The club also runs a major fundraising concert each year in support of a local charity. This year’s concert is a Summer Jazz evening on June 28th in the beautiful setting of the walled garden at Loseley Park, in aid of the bowel cancer charity GUTS. The club is also supporting the Guildford International Music Festival this Spring, with a star-studded Big Band concert at the Electric Theatre on March 21st. ©Paul Miller Photography
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escribed as the “Ronnie Scott’s of Surrey”, Guildford Jazz has a well-earned reputation for bringing some of the top jazz musicians in the country to a local audience, and it is becoming one of the most well-regarded clubs on the UK
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THE DETAILS More information on future jazz events and workshops, as well as enquiries about music for private events, are available from the Guildford Jazz website at www.guildfordjazz.org.uk or by emailing info@guildfordjazz.org.uk
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There were big cheers all around for the members of two Cobham-based community choirs when they both won awards at the International Festival of Advent and Christmas Music in Bratislava
Triumphant return for choirs!
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lmbridge Choir and Elmbridge Ladies Choir, both part of the charity Surrey Music, participated in the competition element of the festival, performing four songs each before a panel of six eminent international judges. The competition was fierce with some magnificent choirs performing from Europe, South Africa, Russia and Ukraine, however
our local choirs held their own, with Elmbridge Choir, directed by Cliff van Tonder, achieving a silver award and Elmbridge Ladies Choir, directed by Dale Thomas, achieving a bronze award. More than 170 choir members and friends travelled to Bratislava, where the choirs performed in the opening Gala Concert in the Jesuit Church, the Christmas markets in the
More than 170 choir members and friends travelled to Bratislava, where the choirs performed in the opening Gala Concert in the Jesuit Church, the Christmas markets in the main square, as well as the competition which took place in the Mirror Hall of the Primatial Palace. Elmbridge Choir at the opening concert in the Jesuit Church in Bratislava
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main square, as well as the competition which took place in the Mirror Hall of the Primatial Palace. ‘After several months of planning and rehearsing, the weekend was a huge success, both in terms of organisation and team building and bonding’, says Amanda Fisackerly, CEO of Surrey Music. ‘It was quite wonderful, and the fact that both choirs won awards was the icing on top of a very large cake!’ As well as performing, the choirs had time to take in the sights of Slovakia and to celebrate their success with a Christmas party, dancing the night away whilst sailing along the River Danube towards Vienna!
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EMBRACING 2015
From Burns Night to Muddy Marathons!
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ith the 2014 festive season now a distant memory, it’s now time embrace 2015 and the coming months with new energy and enthusiasm. Dorking and surrounding villages, in the heart of the Surrey Hills, offer a wide selection of activities, from browsing the antique centre of Dorking in West Street, also the home of Dorking Museum or hiking the iconic Box Hill, there is something to cater for all tastes. Denbies Wine Estate, set in the heart of the Surrey Hills, is England’s largest vineyard. Denbies itself has had reasons to celebrate, with 2014 being a record harvest for the 265 acre vineyard and working winery, the vineyard is looking forward to the release of an extended range of premium and sparkling wines for 2015. Denbies hosts tastings, tours and a wide range of specialist events throughout the year. Now in its 6th year, Denbies Burns Night Celebration is taking place on Saturday 24th January. Scottish dancing is the theme of the Denbies Wine Estate Burns Night Dinner Dance, including sparkling wine on arrival, 4 course meal including haggis neeps and tattis. Denbies wine with the meal accompanied throughout by live music including the piping of the haggis and Scottish ceilidh dance band with caller. This event is extremely popular and early reservations are strongly recommended. For those that like a New Year challenge, local events company Events to Live, based in Leatherhead are holding their first race of the season taking place on Sunday 1st February! Beautiful views and challenging trails are the signature of this event. The 10th Bookham 10k run includes 285m of ascent and descent passing through some of the North Downs’ most fabulous scenery, with 14 JANUARY 2015
great views. This race is likely to be muddy but a lot of fun! There is also a 2.5k fun run for those who don’t want to tackle the whole thing. For full details and how to enter visit www.eventstolive.co.uk . Events to Live also hosts the Bacchus Marathon Festival which takes place at Denbies Wine Estate in September. The Bacchus Marathon (and half) is a fabulously fun festival atmosphere combining wine, running and breath-taking scenery and annually attracts over 1500 participants. Moving at a fast pace through 2015, the month of romance is fast approaching. Denbies idyllic surroundings offer the perfect Valentine’s destination and has without doubt prompted many a proposal amidst the vines. The highlight of Denbies Valentine’s weekend is the ‘Masquerade Ball’, taking place on Saturday 14th with the hugely popular 15 piece band ‘Perfidia’. Sparkling wine and chocolate tasting tours will be available in the atmospheric Denbies Cellar throughout the weekend (£16 per person). The Gallery Restaurant, offering breathtaking panoramic views over the 265 acre vineyard will be open for dinner from 13th – 15th February. For a full day out, the flint-clad Chateaustyle Visitor Centre hosts two restaurants together with a diversely stocked wine and gift shop. The mezzanine Art Gallery features local artists and exhibits change on a monthly basis. Village Greens Farm Shop and Surrey Hills microbrewery are also on-site. The full list of events are listed on the Denbies website www.denbies.co.uk For those wishing to extend their stay, the Denbies Farmhouse Bed and Breakfast Accommodation, ETB ‘4 Stars silver’ is located in the centre of the vineyard with stunning views. Denbies Wine Estate currently has a range of 14 wines and produces over 450,000 bottles of wine per annum. Denbies is located in Dorking, Surrey with direct rail access from London Waterloo and Victoria mainline stations.
Photo by openhousecreative.co.uk
THE DETAILS For reservations and enquiries, please contact: Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking Surrey RH5 6AA
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LOCAL CULTURAL TREATS
Painshill Landscape Garden
Consistently ranked as one of the most desirable places to live in the UK, Elmbridge, where town and country meet, has something for everyone. This year again looks set to offer residents and visitors plenty of opportunity to experience the best the region has to offer, whatever your taste.
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ver the last 40 years, the Royston Pike Lecture Series has established itself as a cultural treat in Elmbridge and has continued to attract audiences with its eclectic mix of subjects and speakers. Topics have included history, crimes, scandals, politics, adventures, travel, photography, unexplained mysteries, botanics and many others. Lectures are presented by charismatic and accomplished individuals who are particularly talented at sharing with others their fascinating experiences and stories. The next Royston Pike Lecture, A Balkan Adventure, will be held on Monday 2 February at the Cecil Hepworth Playhouse, Walton on Thames, and features awardwinning adventurer, explorer, broadcaster, author and photographer John Pilkington. For the sporting fraternity, either as a participant or the avid sideline spectator, the Borough will again feature prominently on both the local and international stage. The P&G Surrey Youth Games is a multi-sports competition, spread over two days, in which all 11 districts and boroughs in Surrey enter teams into 15 different sporting events. There are events for all ages, including events for young people with disabilities. This year’s event is on the 20 and 21 June 2015 The Borough will also feature in the annual Prudential RideLondon cycle races in early August where the best riders in the world will pass through the picturesque region along with thousands of weekend warriors raising money for charity. From September, Elmbridge will be inundated with Rugby fever, with four teams set to make their base in the Borough for the competition. Wales and Fiji have been assigned to the Xcel Leisure Complex, Walton on Thames, in a joint bid with Hazelwood, the new home of
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London Irish Rugby Club, for their pool games for the Rugby World Cup. Italy and Namibia have been assigned to Cobham Rugby Club, in a joint bid with ACS Cobham. The 8th Rugby World Cup is set to start in England and Wales from 18 September to 31 October 2015. The second annual Elmbridge Food Festival is a must for the diary, returning to Painshill Landscape Gardens, Cobham on Saturday and Sunday, 26-27 September 2015. The 2014 festival attracted more than 8000 visitors in its inaugural year showcasing the region’s best in food and drink. There are also year round pursuits for residents and visitors, ranging from the fast paced test drive on the track of Mercedes Benz world, or something slower such as hiking, biking, bird watching or just simply good views. The centrally located Esher Commons is a designated site of scientific interest, or opt to enjoy days out at Claremont Landscape Gardens and the 18th Century Painshill Park. To get your shopping fix, there are many unique shops and boutiques in our villages and the Heart shopping complex in Walton on Thames offers top high street fashion with delicious alfresco dining. With the River Thames, the Wey and the Mole all passing through Elmbridge, there are many attractive riverside locations that offer a great deal to visitors including fishing, rowing and boat trips. The magnificent Hampton Court Palace, the scene of 500 years of royal history from Henry VIII to George II, sits opposite the riverbanks of East Molesey. Elmbridge has a long association with the motorcar and aviation. Take a trip to Brooklands Museum to see the world’s first purpose built racing circuit and the first Concorde to be made in Britain. For the latest events in the region be sure to follow Discover Elmbridge on twitter, @DiscoverElmb.
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Look Your Very Best At The Cosmetic Doctors Company we are passionate about providing the highest quality of care. Dr. Peter Forrester, Dr. Mark Aitken and Ms Helen McEvoy are committed to using therapies that are endorsed by scientific research and most importantly are proven to be effective and safe. Are you concerned about Facial lines Sagging jawline & neck Skin lesions Localised fat Sun damage & pigmentation Acne scarring Thread & spider veins Our treatments include Anti wrinkle injections Dermal fillers INTRAcel skin tightening Non-invasive liquid facelift Cosmetic Surgery Aqualyx Fat Dissolving Thermavein and Micro-sclerotherapy Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Mesotherapy Advanced and prescriptive skin care Dermalux LED Facial Peels
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UNTIL 1 MARCH The Horse at War: 1914 - 1918 This exhibition explores how the horse was depicted in war, both heroically and as a beast-of-burden, by some of the leading British artists of the day, including William Roberts, Sir Alfred Munnings and Lucy KempWelch. The horse is portrayed through historical fine art works and taking centre stage will be ‘Joey’, the life-size horse puppet from the National Theatre’s acclaimed stage production of War Horse on temporary loan from the Victoria and Albert Museum, and featuring drawings by Illustrator and Theatre Designer, Rae Smith. To complement the exhibition, a social history display of documents, newspaper reports and other items recalls the role of horses and other animals, both on the Front and more locally in World War One. The Lightbox Gallery, Chobham Road, Woking, GU21 4AA
ARTS & events
CALENDAR until 26 April Glasshouse Display: hippeastrum (amaryllis) trial There will be a chance to view the Hippeastrum trial that is taking place at Wisley. The display will be in the corridor of the Glasshouse where visitors can see these colourful bulbs being put through their paces. Free once you have entered the Garden. RHS Garden Wisley, Woking, GU23 6QB
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16 january Squire’s Gardening WorkshopS: Indoor Planted Bowl Plant a stylish indoor vase with a choice of 5 beautiful seasonal plants, accompanied with foliage and topped with gravel. You will also receive a voucher for a free tea or coffee to enjoy in our café bar after the workshop. The workshop is running on 16 January at 10am only and costs just £20 per person, this includes all tuition, equipment and material necessary to plant your indoor bowl to take home. Booking can be made at the information desk. Badshot Lea Road, Farnham, Surrey, GU9 9JX
*****
EDITOR’S Erosion by Becky Dodds, Oil, Acrylic and Mediums on Canvas, 110 x 110 cm, £ 995
Mapping Landscape, Canada by Becky Dodds, Oil, Acrylic and Mediums on Canvas, 110 x 110 cm, £995
PICK
17 January - 3 February ART EXHIBITION BY Becky Dodds: Spreading Her Wings The start of 2015 begins with an inaugural exhibition for a bright young talent to the Gallery. Dodds was born in Surrey. She studied for a foundation in art at Falmouth University before gaining a Degree in Fine Art at Bath Spa University in 2014. Becky’s abstract landscape paintings are formed using predominently with oils but also maniuplated with a number of other mediums to produce stunning textures and finishes. “I am a painter who is interested in the landscape both in macrocosm and microcosm. My own passion and understanding of the landscape is of paramount importance and primarily comes from my experiences of being within it. Interested in how we view the land and how our interaction with it makes us feel, my paintings possess an ambiguity with is held between the figurative and the abstract. McAllister Thomas Fine Art, 117 High Street, Godalming, GU7 1AQ
22 january Flamenco Dance Show at Bar des Arts Angela Alonso started the Ilusion Flamenca dance school in 1999 in a small studio in South London. Thanks to Angela’s energy and the enthusiasm of her dancers the school has grown and grown and now performs in festivals and presentations all round the country. Flamenco music and dance is lively, stylish, engaging and vibrant- the perfect ingredients to spice up a Thursday evening in Guildford. Angela and her musicians will be taking the stage at Bar des Arts for another fabulous night of Flamenco dance and Spanish music. From 8.30-10.30 with 15 minute interval at 9.15. Tickets £10, purchase at the box office: Guildford Tourist Information Centre, 155 High Street, Guildford, GU1 3AJ, call 01483 444334 or book online at www. bardesarts.co.uk. Bar des Arts, Millbrook, Guildford, GU1 3YA
24th January Burns Night Celebration Enjoy a celebration of Robbie Burns commencing in the atmospheric Denbies cellars, with dinner and Scottish dancing until midnight in the conservatory atrium and garden room. There will be bag pipes, a 4 course meal including haggis neeps & tattis, sparkling wine on arrival, Denbies wine with the meal and of course, a wee dram. £55 per person, loyalty club: £50 per person. 7.30pm. Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking, RH5 6AA
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Wonderful Watercolour Local artist and tutor, Jane Anderson Wood talks about her passion for watercolour and why she enjoys teaching others to paint.
If you could go anywhere in the world to paint where would you go? The most important thing for me is to spend time in the landscape and becoming familiar with it, so that my paintings are not merely a record of the place, but a personal interpretation of it. Somewhere near water; Scotland is great! What has been your most favourite subject to paint? I love painting water! Sea, lochs, lakes, streams and waterfalls, and wonderful dramatic skies! Ideas for paintings come from objects or places that excite me, and their transformation into shapes, light, colour and texture. Autumn and winter scenes are my favourite seasons to paint, especially if it snows.
How long have you been painting? I went to art school straight from school, and ended up doing a postgraduate course in printmaking. After I left, I started teaching part time in art schools, to help subsidise my art practice. It was then that I discovered my love of teaching.
Who is your favourite artist and why? Turner of course, and there are some fantastic international watercolour artists who are making the medium hugely popular.
What inspired you to paint in watercolour? Whilst my children were young, I started painting in watercolour – printmaking was far too time consuming! There is a shared repertoire of subtle visual qualities in stone lithography and watercolour painting; both require planning and preparation before execution and one of the main characteristics is the magical translucency of ink and paint. What is the most challenging aspect of teaching watercolour painting? There is no white paint in watercolour, so it is vital to preserve the white of the paper as the light areas in a painting. Many people when they start painting in watercolour become absorbed by trying to describe the colour, pattern and texture that they can see when in fact the most important qualities are shape and tone. Watercolour is an interpretative and impressionistic medium. What would be the basic kit for someone to start up painting in watercolour? Watercolour painting is one of the few mediums where good quality materials really count. A basic watercolour kit can cost about £50; you’ll need six or eight tubes of artist’s watercolour, watercolour paper and a good sable brush, water jar, board and tape and some kitchen roll, and that’s it! 26 JANUARY 2015
THE DETAILS Beginners can learn the basics of watercolour painting with Jane Anderson Wood at Painshill on Saturday 31st January. Adult workshop costs £65. ••••• For more experienced watercolour artists Jane Anderson Wood will be running a weekend workshop on how to paint water and reflections at Painshill on Saturday 21st & Sunday 22nd March. Adult workshop costs £110. ••••• Visit www.painshill.co.uk to book online or call 01932 868113
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Amy Cooper: Maker in Focus
INTO the light UNTIL 17 January 2015
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festive exhibition of beautiful handmade porcelain lights by artist Amy Cooper. Amy’s work addresses the fragility and transience of life and the natural world through the transformative properties of light on porcelain. She continues to explore a monochromatic spectrum that is created through the use of textures, variation in thickness and diffusion. The work is slip cast porcelain, each piece individually altered, either through manipulation when plastic or painstakingly masked and sandblasted at bisque. Amy’s porcelain range includes table lamps, lampshades and tea-light holders. Amy Cooper is a Cornwall based designer and maker of
work with glue. I have some loose elements which are also added, I sandblast the work until the areas that are covered by the stencil stand proud. The stencil is then removed, revealing the design. The pieces are fired to 1250 °C and diamond polished before being wired up. For more than 50 years, New Ashgate Gallery has been a window into arts and crafts and provides an unparalleled resource in Farnham, Surrey and beyond. We cultivate the pursuit of excellence in a marketplace environment, with ongoing support to emerging artists, by exhibiting their work and through professional development. We promote the creative process for all communities through workshops, talks and outreach work.
New Ashgate Gallery has been a window into arts and crafts and provides an unparalleled resource unique porcelain lighting. Amy says: All my pieces are slipcast and individually altered and decorated, no two are exactly the same. My most recent work is inspired by my more immediate surroundings, the magic of a garden or woodland at twilight and dawn, as well as softly remembered animations from my childhood. I am trying to recreate an atmosphere that delights as well as unsettles a little, which suggests tales and secrets as well as familiarity. Initially the pieces are slipcast, I have a selection of moulds to create different forms. To create my new designs the pieces are bisque fired and sanded to remove any imperfections. After the piece is sanded I apply a stencil I have made specifically for that form from an original drawing, attaching it to the
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Above: L-R: ‘Pencalenick’ 23x19x11.5 ‘Monarchs’12cms and ‘Trewithen’34x10cms Porcelain Lamps, and Lesser Spotted Fat Pollen Porcelain Lamp 12cms. Below: ‘Three Almonds’ 23x17cms Porcelain Lamps, all by Amy Cooper (All images by Paul Mounsey)
THE DETAILS Normal opening hours: Tue-Sat: 10am-5pm. Free admission. ••••• Extended Xmas hours: Mondays to Saturdays, 10am5pm and Sundays, 11-4pm, until 24 December. Closed on 25-26 December and 1 January. ••••• For more information, email Alison and Loucia at gallery@newashgate.org.uk
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OH BABY! Showcasing a beautiful array of baby clothes, interiors and gifts, Baby Boat is a charming new boutique located in the heart of Weybridge
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ull of the latest baby wear fashions, christening outfits, hand-picked toys and fairy-tale furniture, you’ll find everything you need to welcome a new baby into the world. Baby Boat also hosts owner Naomi Rowe’s unique hand-knitted cushions in a variety of cute
linen for the cot and for your bed too, offering premium quality cottons and designs. The ladies at Baby Boat are dedicated to provide customers with exactly what they are looking for to make Baby’s bedroom absolutely gorgeous, they can even help with your bedroom too.
Baby Boat is sure to delight you with its selection of products to make those first years truly special and tasteful designs for your nursery. Whether you want a graceful furnishing such as a sleigh cot bed, or hand-crafted piece of Beatrix Potter art, Baby Boat is sure to delight you with its selection of products to make those first years truly special. Baby Boat can even lend of hand with custom bed
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THE DETAILS 89 Queens Road, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 9UQ ••••• Telephone 01932 507000
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HEALTH, beauty
& fashion
Image courtesy of Press Association: See article ‘Cutting it with style’
Stay beautiful with our top beauty buys, plus get insider tips on looking great
H EALTH, BEAUTY & fashion
NEW YEAR, NEW YOU! Spire Clare Park Hospital offers new non-surgical weight-loss treatment, Obalon, a small gastric balloon encouraging patients to consume fewer calories. Obalon suits patients with BMI of 27+.
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harlotte, Clare Park’s first Obalon patient, faced difficulty juggling children, home and work life. “I lacked time or energy to focus on weight loss, was unhappy with my appearance and lost confidence; with Obalon I thought this is the answer!” Charlotte lost 29lbs over 12 weeks! Patients swallow Obalon balloon capsule attached to a thin tube. X-ray confirms capsule in stomach then Nitrogen gas inflates the balloon, with x-ray confirming. The balloon
remains for 12 weeks, with up to two additional balloons being inserted at 30 day intervals for improved weight-loss. Charlotte recalls ‘Although daunting, once explained I felt really positive. The procedure was quick and I felt like I had eaten, even though I had fasted for eight hours!”. A simple endoscopy procedure removes the balloon. Obalon supports lifestyle and diet changes. During treatment Charlotte started the 5:2 diet, “I knew prior to Obalon that I couldn’t consume only 500 calories on a fast day!” Charlotte also reduced portion sizes due to supressed appetite.
I would probably have tried more weight loss options, but definitely wouldn’t have lost the amount of weight I have in this timeframe without Obalon Charlotte didn’t experience increased hunger after balloon removal, and continued to lose then maintain weight from continuing healthy lifestyle changes. “I have been very pleased and impressed with Obalon and the fantastic results achieved. I would probably have tried more weight loss options, but definitely wouldn’t have lost the amount of weight I have in this timeframe without Obalon”.
About Spire Healthcare
Spire Healthcare is a leading independent hospital group in the United Kingdom, with 39 hospitals and 12 clinics across England, Wales and Scotland, treating insured, self-pay and NHS patients. The Group delivered tailored, personalised care to more than 236,000 in-patients and daycase patients in 2013, and is the leading provider by volume of knee and hip operations in the United Kingdom. Spire offers in-patient/day-case procedures in areas including orthopaedics, gynaecology, cardiology, neurology, oncology and general surgery and also diagnostic services including imaging and pathology. The Group also offers out-patient services, such as consulting, minor procedures, treatments, health checks and physiotherapy. THE DETAILS Obalon treatment costs from £1995. Contact Clare Park Patient Information Team on 01252 895 490 or email info@spireclarepark.com ••••• www.spirehealthcare.com 36 JANUARY 2015
H EALTH, BEAUTY & fashion
New year New You Cosmetic Surgery – The Cosmetic Doctors Company offers consultations to those considering plastic or cosmetic surgery. This includes minor surgical procedures such as removal of skin lesions, lumps and bumps. Many skin issues can be treated under local anaesthetic on a ‘see and treat basis’.
Anti-wrinkle injections – reduce frown lines and crow’s feet. With rapid, predictable results.
Dermal Fillers – smooth deeper lines and furrows as well as returning lost volume to the face – the effect is immediate. LED Therapy – uses light to energise and rejuvenate and repair skin. With no irritation or down time. It minimises fine lines and wrinkles, firms skin, evens tone, soothes irritation and reduces acne outbreaks.
Aqualyx – is an injectable treatment for the dispersal of areas of fat. It is best used on troublesome areas that do not respond to diet and exercise alone. It is not a method of weight loss but is used to improve the contour of treated areas. It can be used on hips, knees, thighs,tummy and love handles as well as double chin and jowls. A course of 2-4 treatments may be needed to achieve the best results.
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Facial Peels – help to return a healthy glow to dull, tired skin. Peels also reduce fine lines, wrinkles, uneven tone, acne and scarring. INTRAcel – is a more intensive treatment combining microneedling and radiofrequency to improve the tone and texture of skin, reduce wrinkles, tighten jowls and neck.
Advanced Skin Care – Cut out the buzzwords, bogus claims and miracle ingredients – The Cosmetic Doctors Company has a very different approach to skincare. Using ZO Skin Health – scientific products offering rapid results – with concentrated formulas if you want something more than feelgood, smell-nice lotions – Dr Peter Forrester will formulate a unique skincare regime using prescription only products to ensure the best possible results.
Micro-sclerotherapy – a technique used for the removal of surface and spider veins. It involves injections with a very fine needle of a sclerosing drug which irritates the lining of the veins causing the walls to stick together. In most cases excellent results can be achieved.
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3D Lipo & Lipolite your treatment has been completed, aside from drinking more water to flush out the destroyed fat cells, you can return to work without a problem.
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The 3D Lipolite Weight Loss programme is the perfect complement for 3D Lipo fat & cellulite reduction treatments. The flexible programme is designed for people wanting to lose a few pounds over a few weeks prior to a special event right up to people wanting to lose life changing amounts over several months. Clinically proven, the 3D Lipolite programme is the next generation in accelerated weight loss and body contouring. With clinical trial participants losing up to 23.2kg (3.65 stone) in as little as 4 months, combining 3D Lipolite Weight Loss Programme with 3D Lipo Fat & Cellulite Reduction treatments, this tailored program of a prescribed diet and moderate exercise is delivering amazing results.
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ost of us know how to ruin our diets during our lunch break, but many of us don’t know how you can lose an inch in an hour. Trueskin Medispa in Esher do and are going to let you in on the secret. Not only does Trueskin Esher have the secret, it is also offering some amazing deals in their January Sale! Traditionally to lose an inch off any part of your body meant something drastic such as surgery or traditional liposuction. With the preparation time, surgery involved, and factoring in recovery time, there was no way that you could do this in an hour. You were looking at a recovery time of between 4 – 6 weeks. Today, fast and effective fat busting techniques are readily available. These treatments not only enable you to go about your daily business as soon as you have finished your session, but they are just as effective as traditional methods, minus the scarring and scary bill afterwards. Welcome to the age of 3D Lipo and 3D Lipolite.
What Is 3D Lipo?
3D Lipo is an effective and non-invasive treatment, which destroys fat cells and helps with fat and cellulite reduction and skin firming. The treatment uses combinations of radio frequency, 3D dermology, ultrasound cavitation, and cryolipolysis, depending on what you want to achieve. The destroyed fat cells are then expelled from the body naturally by the lymphatic system. There is no surgery, no needles, no scarring, just a quick and effective treatment that really could help you lose an inch, and probably more, during your first session. Once 40 JANUARY 2015
3D LIPO ALL INCLUSIVE PACKAGE 12 x Cavitation, 1 x Cryolipolysis (any body part), 4 x Radio Frequency Only £999 (save over £1,800) 3D LIPOLITE ALL INCLUSIVE PACKAGE ‘3D All Inclusive Package’ and an 8 week Lipolite programme Only £1,499 (save over £2,000)
The treatments offered by Trueskin Esher to tackle problem areas of fat, cellulite, and loose skin have become much more sophisticated and much less invasive. If you are interested in booking a free consultation and FREE taster session for their 3D Lipo or 3D Lipolite treatments contact them today on 0845 528 1142. THE DETAILS Esher Medispa, 101a High street Esher, Surrey, KT10 9QE ••••• esher@trueskin.co.uk 0203 743 8339 ••••• www.trueskin.co.uk
HhEALTH, & fashion ous e &BEAUTY ga r d e n
OVERNIGHT SUCCESS Everyone knows that getting eight hours of shut-eye a night will ensure you look your best, but did you also know you can harness the power of sleep to boost your natural beauty? By Katie Wright, Press Association
“A
t night, the skin is in repair mode, just like the rest of the body, and is more receptive to concentrated, targeted treatment during hours of rest,” says Dr Tom Mammone, executive director of skin physiology and pharmacology at Clinique. “After dark, your skin cell renewal is much more active, eight times more active than at 1pm,” agrees Emma Schulz, national education manager for Darphin. “The biggest mistake people make is not putting anything on the skin before bed, so it uses up all the natural oils.” And it’s not just your skin that can benefit. Supercharge your beauty sleep with these powerful products...
PEEL AWAY THE YEARS
Want to wake up looking rested and rejuvenated - even when you’re feeling anything but? Superdrug’s Naturally Radiant Glycolic Overnight Peel, £5.99 (www.superdrug. com), uses glycolic acid and antioxidants to exfoliate and fade pigmentation problems while you sleep. Apply after removing your make-up (being careful to avoid the eye area) and simply wash off the next morning.
SUPER SERUM
If you haven’t already added an anti-ageing serum to your evening routine, what are you waiting for? Kiehl’s HydroPlumping Re-Texturising Serum Concentrate, £40 (www. kiehls.co.uk), contains glycerine, which acts like a magnet to draw moisture into the skin and has been proven to boost hydration overnight. Smooth on a fine layer (it’s thinner than a face cream) and allow to absorb before applying your moisturiser. 42 JANUARY 2015
MASK THE PROBLEM
“While you are asleep, skin is busy repairing damage caused during the day, but is more prone to dehydration,” says Dr Mammone. Clinique’s Moisture Surge Overnight Mask, £30 (www.clinique.co.uk), is formulated to stem the flow, delivering all-important hyaluronic acid and seed extracts to strengthen the barrier that locks in moisture. Even better, you don’t have to wash it off in the morning.
CREAM OF THE CROP
If you prefer the nourishing feel of a thick, luscious face cream last thing at night, you’ll love The Jojoba Company Intense Overnight Renewal Cream, £34.95 (www.oneway2naturalhealth. com). Packed with skin saviours like vitamin E, marine collagen and argan oil, it plumps and promotes overnight skin renewal. Warm the cream between your fingertips before gently smoothing over the face and neck.
Buy it now To mark National Stress Awareness Day on November 5, Aveda has partnered with the Stress Management Society to share tips on how to minimise day-to-day stressors. If you can’t make it to an Aveda counter on the day for a complimentary massage, try inhaling the soothing scent of the Stress Fix Concentrate rollerball, £22 (www.aveda.co.uk), whenever you feel your blood pressure rising.
Tried & tested Our testers line up to try a trio of liquid eyeliners Yves Saint Laurent Eyeliner Baby Doll (in Gris Vinyle), )
There’s a subtle shimmer to this charcoal grey liner when you apply along the lash line. The wand is quite long and thin, so you need to be careful and precise, but it defines well, dries quickly (so no messy liquid on the crease of the lid), and 5/5 rinses off easily with makeup remover. £25 (www.yslbeauty.co.uk)
Soap & Glory Supercat Fat Jumbo Carbon Black Ink Eyeliner This eyeliner may look a little chunky, with its angled edge designed to achieve that Sixties flick, but if you don’t want to your lids too heavily lined, it’s easy to use the edge of the liner close to the lashes for a more subtle outline. It has good staying power too, lasting all day. £7, Boots
Burberry Effortless Liquid Eyeliner in Jet Black
4/5
3/5
I’ve wanted to master the Alexa Chung flick for ages but could never manage with soft eyeliner brushes. This sharp felt-tip liner was far easier and way more precise. With a bit of practise (hint: YouTube tutorials), and a few coats to build up the colour, I had cat-eyes to be proud of. £23 (www.burberry.com)
ESSENTIAL INGREDIENT
HAIR HYDRATION
A true ‘hero’ product, Philip Kingsley Elasticizer, £15 (www.feelunique.com) was originally invented by the legendary hair dresser for Audrey Hepburn in 1974 and is still a bestseller. The pre-shampoo ultra-conditioning treatment can also be used overnight and rinsed out in your morning shower. Apply to damp hair and use a shower cap or towel to prevent the chills!
SCENT TO SLEEP
Indulging in a bit of pre-bed ‘me time’ will help send you off to the land of nod in no time. Add a few drops of Aromatherapy Associates Deep Relax Bath & Shower Oil, £40 (www.aromatherapyassociates.com), to your bath or smooth over your skin before showering and breathe in the calming scents of chamomile and sandalwood.
TOP 5 BEAUTY BUYS
Get the
look
Darphin Chamomile Aromatic Care, £44 (www.darphin.co.uk)
1
SWEET DREAMS
Still having trouble sleeping? Andrea Garland’s Sleeping Beauty Collection, £39 (www.andreagarland.co.uk), is a one-stop shop for insomnia-prevention. Housed in a mock book box, it includes a chamomile and bergamot pillow mist, lip balm, an eye mask and even ear plugs to fast-track to you to sweet dreams.
4 Naturally Radiant Glycolic Overnight Peel, £5.99, Superdrug
Yves Saint Laurent Eyeliner Baby Doll in Gris Vinyle, £25 (www.yslbeauty.co.uk)
2 3
Clinique Moisture Surge Overnight Mask, £30 (www.clinique.co.uk)
Aromatherapy Associates Deep Relax Bath & Shower Oil, £40 (www.aromatherapyassociates.com)
5
Product images courtesy of PA Photo/Handout
“Essential oils are drawn to natural oils in the skin,” explains Schulz, which is why she recommends the soothingly-scented Darphin Chamomile Aromatic Care, £44 (www.darphin.co.uk), before bed. “Put five drops in your palm, rub your hands together, breathe the fragrance in deeply then sweep your palms across your face from the nose outwards.”
JANUARY 2015 43
HhEALTH, & fashion ous e &BEAUTY ga r d e n
2015! A New Year. Your New Year’s Resolutions - Solved Without Pain, Visits To The Gym Or Working Up A Sweat!
For Your BODY! THE FAT BUSTER! Bust those unwanted fat cells. Tighten your skin. Take control where dieting and exercise has failed with this simple 2 step process!
Step 1
We’ll give you the Exilis EliteTM multi award winning Radiofrequency Skin Tightening treatment - valued at £350.00, absolutely FREE to complete your stunning effect.
That’s £850.00 worth of fat busting, skin tightening for just £500.00.
*Photos courtesy of Jill Zander Skin Rejuvenation Clinic*
The award-winning VanquishTM Fat Buster is a brilliant innovation. This targets your unwanted fat cells in the problematic mid-section. Kill your fat cells in one session here and now! (valued at £500.00)
Step 2
BEFORE
AFTER
Above is an example of the fantastic results you can achieve with this combination.
PLUS… BEAT THE BULGE! To eliminate problems such as: • Bingo wings • Bra roll • Saddle bags • Love handles • Stomach pouch • Knee wobble • Slack inner thighs With your own combination of the following therapies to give you proven results:
Step 1
3D-LipoMed Cryolipolysis - (Fat Freezing) is a well documented and highly popular treatment to target your unwanted fat cells.
Step 2
Lipotripsy Shockwave - Using radial wave technology this is a non invasive procedure to stimulate and enhance fat breakdown and lymphatic drainage.
44 JANUARY 2015
Step 3
Body Ballancer - This medical Pressotherapy system completes the treatment combination. This will kick start your process of lymph and fluid elimination giving you a wonderfully slimmed down silhouette combined with a feeling of well being and ready to take on the world.
This combination is valued at £620.00 but you only pay £350.00 saving you £270.00.
A Beautiful New You Now For Your FACE! SKIN TIGHT! Restore your facial contours. Improve your skins elasticity. Have a younger, firmer skin tone…
Step 1
Meder BeautyTM Arma Lift - This Swiss beauty science is a non-invasive, deeply relaxing skin rejuvenation facial contour correction and lifting treatment designed to lift sagging jowls. The results are immediate and you will be wowed!
facelift gives wonderful skin tightening and skin remodelling benefits - it is pain-free and has no downtime. The above combo of Meder Beauty and ClearLift costs £460.00 and we will give you FREE the multi award winning Exilis Elite radiofrequency treatment valued at £350.00.
That’s a total of £810.00 worth of facial rejuvenation for just £460.00!
Step 2
ClearLiftTM Laser Facelift - The lunchtime laser
These three, super saver New Year New You offers are ONLY available until 31 January 2015, and will be available on a strictly first come first served basis. DO NOT miss out. Call Today 01372 471448!
Email info@jillzander.co.uk
www.jillzander.co.uk
JANUARY 2015 45
HHOUSE EALTH &BEAUTY BEAUTY & FASHION hEALTH, ous e & ga GARDEN rden
Cutting it with style It’s the battle of the scissors that’s now in its 30th year. Like the Oscars for super-stylists, the HJ British Hairdressing Awards is where innovative hair is crowned and salon chairs become thrones. By Lisa Haynes, Press Association
T
revor Sorbie scooped the first accolade in 1985 and other household names in hair followed; John Frieda, Andrew Collinge, Nicky Clarke and Charles Worthington are among the 15 hairdressers who have held the British Hairdresser of the Year trophy aloft. “Hair is your ultimate fashion accessory,” says Charles Worthington. “Take time to learn all the tricks of the trade from your stylist to maintain and change your look.” While boundary-pushing creative cuts are celebrated, it’s the enduring styles that underpin the kind of hair we request at the salon time and time again. The secret of an iconic hair look? Last year’s winner Akin Konizi believes it has to be “beautiful, suitable and well-executed - these three factors will make sure that your hairstyle looks good in any decade”.
All images: PA Photo/Handout/ HJs British Hairdressing Awards
46 JANUARY 2015
TREVOR SORBIE
British Hairdresser of the Year winner: 1985, 1986, 1991, 1992 Ultimate timeless hairstyle: “The bob - every year it comes back in a slightly new way. I think the reason for its popularity is that it suits most women, be it short, midlength or long. Gwyneth Paltrow, Kiera Knightley and Lily Collins have all looked amazing with bobs.” TOP HAIR TIP: “Always invest in a good haircut. That’s the bottom line of any good style and it’s worth paying the extra money for the best cut you can afford.”
:ANDREW COLLINGE
British Hairdresser of the Year winner: 1993, 1997 Ultimate timeless hairstyle: “The bob, without
Hair by Andrew OToole
doubt. From ancient Egyptian times, Vidal Sassoon’s 5-point cut, right through to Victoria Beckham’s Pob, the bob in some form will always be in fashion.” TOP HAIR TIP: “I always show clients how to quickly and effectively dry the roots of the hair first. Using a vent or paddle brush, smooth away difficult kinks and frizz by moving the brush from side to side whilst applying heat to speed up drying time.”
NICKY CLARKE
British Hairdresser of the Year winner: 1994 Ultimate timeless hairstyle: “As much as I admire signature looks like Anna Wintour’s bob, for me, a freer, movable haircut works better. I love the cut I did for
MARK HILL
British Hairdresser of the Year winner: 2000 Ultimate timeless hairstyle: “The new wave is a twist on that classic Lauren Bacall and Rita Hayworth look from the Hollywood golden years. It’s a style that constantly reinvents itself with each generation because of its timeless glamour and beauty.” TOP HAIR TIP: “Have fun with your hair. Look good, feel great!”
ANDREW BARTON
British Hairdresser of the Year winner: 2006 Ultimate timeless hairstyle: “It has to be the bob - constantly in fashion but a timeless classic that never
Spending a few more minutes on your hair before you leave the house will always pay off Yasmin Le Bon in 1993, which could still be worn today and look fresh.” TOP HAIR TIP: “Get the best haircut for your hair type, aspiration and lifestyle.”
CHARLES WORTHINGTON
British Hairdresser of the Year winner: 1996, 1998 Ultimate timeless hairstyle: “The Bardot has remained a current look throughout the decades. Kate Moss carries off the look with effortless style. Whether it’s groomed ‘glossy Bardot’ on the red carpet or ‘shaggy Bardot’ on the catwalk, it still has alluring modernity.” TOP HAIR TIP: “Always go with a style that works with your hair texture and face shape, but above all, go with a style that fits your personality.”
dates. The vibe changes with each era, but it’s like the hair equivalent of the LBD.” Top hair tip: “Use a deep conditioning mask at least once a week to nourish and care for your hair. Spending a few more minutes on your hair before you leave the house will always pay off.”
AKIN KONIZI
British Hairdresser of the Year winner: 2008, 2009, 2011, 2013 Ultimate timeless hairstyle: “The pixie haircut created on Mia Farrow by Vidal Sassoon in 1968. It has always been one of my favourite hairstyles and I’ve been playing with it throughout my career.” Top hair tip: “Put down your magazine, madame, and watch how I dry your hair - because you have to do this for the next six weeks...” The HJ British Hairdressing Awards coffee table book, priced £39.95, is available now
Tried & tested
Lisa Haynes gets a fuller head of hair in under an hour
A
fter an over-zealous trim to cut away summer dead ends, I felt a bit like I’d been sheared. My long hair usually acts as a makeshift snood in winter. To ease the stop gap waiting for it to grow back, I decide to cheat with Kapello’s pre-taped hair extensions. Traditional extensions involve hours stuck in the salon chair and a scary-looking hot glue gun, but this process eliminates both. It’s still a semi-permanent route to longer/thicker hair, but applied by an extensions specialist, the two-inch strips of tape are sandwiched either side of your natural hair. Before my appointment, I have my colour assessed and pick out potential hues that match with the caramel tones in my hair. When I arrive at the
salon for E-Day (extensions day), pre-taped, long pieces are laid out ready to go. Because I want a natural but fuller look, each tape is cut into half sizes for extra flexibility and management - I’m also told I have a particularly small head! She expertly shifts my hair and assesses my scalp shape with every piece, ensuring each of the two shades (eight for base colour, 27 for highlight) match my current colour. Tapes are cut into quarter size strips for subtle highlights around the front of my hair. Who needs bleach? In 45-minutes flat, 20 pieces are applied to my head and snipped to blend in with my own cut. The results are impressive. The tapes feel super-flat on my head when I run my hands through my hair and the colour blends seamlessly with my own. It’s
like my own hair, but better. I meet my friends for a weekend away, who all compliment me on my hair but have no clue about my discreet additions. I’m given care instructions (sulphate-free shampoo, detangling brush, and drying hair thoroughly) and - here comes the addictive part - I’m told that the pre-taped extensions can be reapplied a further three to four times. Whether it’s skinny hair, won’t-grow hair or I-only-asked-for-a-trim-but-got-this hair, Kapello pretapes are the speedy way to achieve swooshy locks. Half head of Kapello extensions, from £300 at Errol Douglas, London (www.erroldouglas. com). Kapello pre-taped hair extensions available at salons nationwide, from £225. (0800 587 7760/www.kapellohair.com)
JANUARY 2015 47
HOUSE
& GARDEN
Bringing you inspirational ideas for your home from Surrey and Berkshire’s finest home interior companies
Best Seat in the House… Bagsie leather sofa, from £2,495, Loaf. Image courtesy of PA Photo/Handout
HHOUSE hOUSE ous e && GARDEN ga GARDEN rden
Camberley company helping customers drive down carbon emissions
E
nvironmentally aware Camberley company, The Art of Living Group, has invested in a new fleet of ultra-efficient eco-friendly Mitsubishi Outlanders and installed plug in charging points that customers can use free of charge. The two charging points were added by The Art of Living Group, which incorporates Ceramic Tile Warehouse, Stone Gallery and Park Street Interiors, at their own cost, so customers with electric cars can charge their vehicles when visiting the stores. The company acquired the Mitsubishi Outlanders from Farnham based dealership, Wiltshire & Sons. The vehicles are the world’s first plug in hybrid four wheel drive SUV vehicle and were financed by The Art of Living Group, with the help of a government grant of £5,000 per vehicle. The Art of Living Group, which has previously received a Carbon Trust Loan to enable them to make their lighting and fittings more energy efficient, is passionately committed to saving power and caring for the environment. They chose the Outlander as, unlike other SUV’s, it is driven as an electric vehicle and therefore is
The vehicles are the world’s first plug in hybrid four wheel drive SUV vehicle ultra-low in emissions with optimum fuel efficiency. This means that they are tax and London congestion charge exempt and due to the environmental benefits, they also have corporation tax saving benefits. Clive Blythe, Managing Director of Ceramic Tile Warehouse and Stone Gallery, commented: “We are always looking for ways to reduce our carbon footprint and cut financial costs. By investing in these vehicles, we are not only benefitting the environment, but also our customers who will be able to use our charging bays for free. The Outlanders have been acquired for our staff ’s own use, not for delivering goods, so they will be doing their bit for the environment too.” 50 JANUARY 2015
HHOUSE hOUSE ous e && GARDEN ga GARDEN rden
“The one thing that is very apparent is that the general public get very little advice about buying the correct bed”
The barn showroom where specialist advice is key to a good night’s sleep
T
he historic converted barn known as ‘The Bed Centre’ may be a familiar landmark for regulars passing down the A281 through the village of Bramley, but the extensive range (and, more importantly knowledgeable advice) that lies within may come a surprise to most. This family business has more than 75 years’ experience helping customers get that perfect nights sleep. Owner Gary Ewmett takes pride in selling long lasting solid timber bedsteads, in oak, ash, mahogany and cherry wood. He says that the thing that sets the Bed Centre apart from others is the personal service it provides. “The one thing that is very apparent is that the general public get very little advice about buying the correct bed.
We spend time talking about the individual requirements our customers may have to make sure they purchase the right bed.” Clearly that extra bit of effort has paid off. The majority of the business is from recommendations from previous customers. The Bed Centre has built up a solid client base and offers a free delivery service and is also able to dispose of your old bed for you, which go to recycling. It specialises in individual pocketsprung, memory foam and coil sprung beds and mattresses and also has a selection of children’s beds and bedroom furniture. Sofa beds, mattresses and pillows are also available. “While the majority of the younger customers prefer bedsteads” Gary says, “there are many customers who still prefer the classic divans beds. But whichever bed you opt for, the golden rule is the same - take your time over trying the mattresses before making your choice”.
Bramley Bed Centre Old Barn, High Street, Bramley Guildford, Surrey GU5 0HS ••••• 01483 898209 www.bramleybedcentre.co.uk 52 JANUARY 2015
At least
20% off All plants and gardening items Terms & conditions Apply. Excludes online sales. Sale ends 31st January
HHOUSE hOUSE ous e && GARDEN ga GARDEN rden
BEST SEAT IN THE
HOUSE
Leon 2.5 Sofa, in Slate fabric, £1,440, Sofa.com
Collins & Hayes Catalina Corner Sofa, £2,344 Furniture Village
Charming Charles large sofa from £1,799 and Aztec footstool £549 in Emma Bridgewater fabrics, Sofa Workshop
All images: PA Photo/Handout
You just know when you’ve found ‘the one’. Supportive, and always there for you when you need comfort, a snuggle or just to relax. I’m not talking about a partner - at least, not a human one, but the sometimes more tricky matter of getting the right seating partner; a sofa. By Gabrielle Fagan, Press Association
Moray Check Cuddler sofa, £1,598, DFS
Dusty four-seater sofa, in velvet, £899, DFS
Miss Behaving small sofa in Romo Pleasure Garden Velvet £2,299, Sofa Workshop
56 JANUARY 2015
SALE NOW ON
www.grangewoodfloors.co.uk 01932 846900
HHOUSE hOUSE ous e && GARDEN ga GARDEN rden
IGNITE THEIR IMAGINATIONS
WITH A PLAYHOUSE A playhouse is every child’s dream. A place to call their own, where they can let their imaginations run wild away from the grown-ups! This is what Erica and David Llewellyn wanted for their three year old daughter Phoebe.
hung underneath the steps to add another point of interest to the playhouse. “The team back at The Playhouse Company headquarters were also extremely helpful, offering advice on the many different colours and finishes we could choose from. We have an old copper beech tree, as well as an abundance of purple flowering plants so we wanted the colour of the playhouse to compliment these. The colour we finally chose, purple with cream doors and window frames and white guttering, is the perfect partner for our garden, but is also colourful enough for Phoebe,” adds Erica. Phoebe’s “Bay Tree Cottage” took around two weeks to hand-build at The Playhouse Company’s factory in Herefordshire. It then took just over one day to install into the Llewellyn’s back garden. “It was raining heavily on the day of the installation but that did not deter Richard and his team. The playhouse went up in little over day and as soon as the rain stopped
Phoebe’s “Bay Tree Cottage” took around two weeks to hand-build at The Playhouse Company’s factory
“W
e had always wanted a playhouse for Phoebe, so as soon as we thought she was old enough to enjoy and appreciate one we started the search,” explains Erica. “We found The Playhouse Company on the Internet and after looking through its range of beautiful houses we settled on a design. Once we had chosen the house we then had to decide where to put it and as our garden is quite uneven it was difficult to find the perfect place. However, we needn’t have worried. Richard Frost, CEO of The Playhouse Company, came to visit us to assess our garden and the suitability of various sites.” By visiting Erica’s garden Richard was not only able to advise on where best to place their chosen playhouse but he was also able to make a few suggestions, which eventually turned their standard playhouse into one with the “wow” factor! Erica continues, “Our only stipulation was that we wanted the playhouse to have two floors, with an external staircase that went to the upper floor. After walking around our garden and inspecting various locations, Richard suggested building the playhouse around an existing old tree and incorporating the tree into the design of the playhouse – it was a fantastic idea!” The final design was a two story “cottage” style playhouse with a front “stable” door, two downstairs windows and two beautifully crafted dormer windows on the second floor. The exterior staircase wound its way around the tree to the upper floor and led to another “stable” door at the side of the house. A swing was also
58 JANUARY 2015
Phoebe had explored her new house and moved in quite a few of her toys! She takes great pride in her “tree house” as she calls it! “We absolutely love our new playhouse. Not only is it somewhere to inspire Phoebe and encourage her to use her imagination, but it also blends beautifully into our garden without being intrusive,” concludes Erica. Richard Frost, CEO of The Playhouse Company, adds, “A playhouse is the perfect present which will last for years rather than days. They entice children away from the television and help to ignite their imaginations in a way that computer games and TV programmes just cannot.”
THE DETAILS The Playhouse Company builds a range of playhouses as well as creating bespoke designs. For further information, visit www.theplayhousecompany.co.uk or call 01544 387100.
HHOUSE hOUSE ous e && GARDEN ga GARDEN rden
OAK
STYLE INSPIRATION Join Bridgman and view a fabulous collection of solid oak and hand painted furniture. From occasional cameo pieces to complete dining and bedroom suites, all lovingly hand crafted from kiln dried European hardwoods sourced exclusively from managed renewable forests.
T
he Bridgman name has been associated with fine furniture since the 1950’s and their brand is now synonymous with the manufacture and supply of exceptional quality, luxuriously comfortable and exquisitely designed furnishings. Using a mixture of solid timber, veneers and other modern materials in the manufacture of their interior furniture whilst using traditional and modern construction techniques at the same time ensures product longevity. Exquisitely designed for Bridgman the Crowborough bedroom range features a combination of subtle pastel
oak, with six different hand finished options to choose from. Door and drawer furniture is made in stainless steel, using a combination of shell and trumpet styles. The Wimbledon range in natural oak brings stylish living into any home. The natural tones and grain of the oak wood will compliment any interior colour scheme and bring harmony and style to a room setting. Featuring generous but elegant display cabinets and sideboards, coffee and lamp tables as well as TV units, wine racks and laptop tables. All designed with everyday modern living in mind, combined with maximum style and superior quality.
The Crowborough bedroom range features a combination of subtle pastel paint finishes and natural solid European oak paint finishes and natural solid European oak. Soft curves and profiles evoke a traditional French style although the combination of colour, natural oak and bright nickel plated hardware gives it a fresh look that suits either country or contemporary living. Other detailing, such as a hidden drawer concealed behind the top profile gives the Crowborough range a unique character and quality that has become the standard for Bridgman. The Cobham dining and bedroom collections are a painted range of country style furniture with the added benefit of a choice of colours. Stunning centrepiece design is the key to the appeal of the Cobham collection. Legs, base plinths and frames are made from solid birch wood with the tops all being manufactured from solid European 60 JANUARY 2015
Given the diversity of wood, paint and fabric options available all indoor selections are tailored to meet each customer’s individual requirements and are manufactured specifically for them. Discuss your requirements with Bridgman’s experienced customer service advisors who are not pushy, simply helpful and informative and that’s just the way they like it! With reserved parking right outside Bridgman in Walton offers a warm and friendly welcome with fresh coffee always on the go. Pop along and enjoy the Bridgman experience, a relaxed way to invest in quality furniture. THE DETAILS Unit A, Auckland House, New Zealand Avenue Walton on Thames, Surrey KT12 1PL ••••• 01932 242707 www.bridgman.co.uk
HHOUSE hOUSE ous e && GARDEN ga GARDEN rden
BEAUTIFULLY CRAFTED
F
or over a decade Gerard Lewis Designs have been designing and making beautiful hand crafted contemporary furniture. Hidden away on an Island off the east coast of England, better known by foodies for its oyster beds and The Company Shed, is the factory of bespoke cabinet makers Gerard Lewis Designs. Nick and Sandra Harvey started the business in 2001. Their ethos is to provide thoughtfully designed, high quality handmade furniture, for people who love their homes and want good quality along with innovative design. They continue to fly the flag for British manufacturing; keeping the furniture industry alive in this country. With a multi skilled team of craftsmen, a client’s dream can become a reality. From the initial site survey to delivery and installation the team of craftsmen make sure every detail is considered. Seeing a project through from beginning to end gives a much higher degree of attention to detail and problems are ironed out or averted with this ‘hands on’ approach. From super yachts to listed buildings, Gerard Lewis Designs have designed and supplied furniture to a raft of A-list celebrity clients. Over the years they have worked with many interior designers throughout the UK, including celebrity designers. Five star hotels, architects and members of the public. They cater for anyone from any ‘walk of life’ with a desire to furnish their home with furniture that cannot be found on the high street. They work in a wide variety of timbers
62 JANUARY 2015
and exotic veneers and where necessary will hand select from their suppliers for exactly the right tone, hue or grain finish. Most popular at the present time are wall to wall fitted units housing media equipment and the flat screen TV. People now own and so want plenty of storage to hide their DVD collections along with the Sky box, wii, xbox, and sound system. Such are the moves in technology these items can all be discreetly hidden behind cabinetry and still be accessed via remote control. The addition of LED lighting is now a common component in their cabinetry; be it wardrobes with added internal lighting or hidden lights fitted to give additional ambient lighting to the room. The commissioning process is simple and straight forward. It may involve a site survey for fitted items of cabinetry. But they will guide you through the design process, offering you advice and their experience while taking into consideration your current interior and items of furniture the new piece will live alongside. When deadlines are tight then production times are short. They are adept at tailoring furniture to meet the need. Some projects may take months; it just depends on what is required and what level of detail and finish is desired. If you would like to commission your own furniture then contact Nick or Sandra. THE DETAILS 30b Waldegraves Business Park Waldegraves Lane, West Mersea Colchester CO5 8SE ••••• 01206 381 888 www.gerardlewisdesigns.com
HhOUSE ous e && GARDEN ga r d e n
Which Double Glazing Trader
W
hen a homeowner commits to making improvements to their abode one of the hardest choices they face is finding a reputable installer who they know will do a quality job; the last thing anyone wants is to be scammed or left out of pocket due to negligent workmanship, or indeed a few years down the line find that the “guarantee” is not worth the paper it is written on. To assist householders and give them greater peace of mind when appointing an installation company, consumer champions Which? established an endorsement scheme labelled ‘Which? Trusted Traders’. Back in 2014 the region’s largest independent double glazing manufacturers and installers, Hazlemere Window Company, joined this prestigious scheme after they passed an intense assessment process, proving that they met the strict requirements set out by Which? and satisfy the high standards they expect of a local and reliable trader. To be recognised in this way is an extremely prestigious achievement’ for any supplier, particularly as 25% of traders fail during the assessment stage. It demonstrates to customers that Which Trusted Traders have proven themselves as having been trustworthy up to that point, and that they are firmly committed to offering complete fairness and transparency at all times. Having such status enables us to display the Which? Trusted Traders logo on all
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marketing materials which will give customers added confidence when choosing a double glazing supplier ahead of any other local installation company. Which? Trusted Traders also provides its own ombudsman service which supplies an independent dispute resolution whenever any issues arise between a customer and scheme member. This is just the latest in a series of industry recognised accreditations that Hazlemere holds, as they are also FENSA Registered Installers (No. 10589), ISO 9001 accredited for quality management and ISO 14001 for waste management, as they re-cycle all the old windows, doors and conservatories they remove. In addition Hazlemere now provide an insurance back warranty from the Independent Warranty Association with every window or door or conservatory they install. According to Which? even if a double glazing installer has been recommended to you by a family member, neighbour or friend, they advise you still should find out if they are a Which Trusted Trader as well as a member of an approved industry body. Some double glazing companies are sadly renowned for dubious selling techniques - so it’s really little wonder that only around 6% of Which? members say they trust glazing firms. No wonder then, that the vast majority of Which? members who took part in the survey in 2014 decided to use independent double glazing installers to carry out work on their properties rather than use big brand names, with some citing the traders’ need to maintain their strong reputations in the community as the reason for going local. In 2014, Which? asked 2,872 of their members questions concerning their experience of double glazing installation and companies. All had double glazing installed in the last 5 years with either a local/independent firm or a big name such as Anglian, Everest, Safestyle or Zenith.
Should One Choose?
Which? asked them to rate the double glazing supplier they used for various aspects of their experience, such as quotation process and customer service. This Which? double glazing company customer satisfaction survey carried out last year showed that the big four national brands – Zenith (40% customer satisfaction), Safestyle (54%), Anglian (56%) and Everest (59%) did not fair as well as local independent companies and traders who had a much higher customer satisfaction rating of 82%. Which? is unbiased and are independent consumer champions, who say they buy every product they test and
should be for you to end up with 3 comparable quotes in writing and to meet the firm that will be spending days or weeks at your property. A good double glazing supplier should never pressure you into a sale – never agree to anything on the spot. As Which? advises “remember that the cheapest quote might not be the best.” Recommendations count for a lot in the glazing industry. If friends, family or neighbours can’t help, look at reviews for local glazing companies on Which? Trusted Traders. Seek evidence of appropriate specialties – as for example a double glazing company might be experts in aluminium
A good double glazing supplier should never pressure you into a sale – never agree to anything on the spot don’t accept at face value what any “advertising” might claim, so it is therefore advice consumers can trust. When deciding to replace windows or doors Which? advises that you should contact at least three glaziers and organise for them to visit you at home. Some double glazing companies still sadly use aggressive sales techniques. If whilst in your home a double glazing sales person starts offering time-sensitive discounts, or calls ‘head office’ and similar scams, then alarm bells should sound. The aim of each visit to your home
or UPVC double glazing, or casement and sash windows or say timber windows. Those that rate well on customer service skills are more likely to resolve any future problems with the product or the installation. THE DETAILS For free help and advice from independent experts with over 30 years experience, contact High Wycombe and Welwyn Garden City based Which Trusted Traders Hazlemere Window Company on 01344 989938 or visit www.hazlemere.co.uk JANUARY 2015 65
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property OXSHOTT RISE COBHAM, SURREY
A luxury brand new six bedroom house situated on the highly sought after Oxshott Way Estate, within walking distance of Cobham High Street. Guide price ÂŁ3,595,000 For more information about this property please contact Knight Frank Cobham on 01932 591 600 or visit the website at www.knightfrank.com/cobham
property
oxshott rise | cobham, surrey
A
luxury brand new six bedroom house situated on the highly sought after Oxshott Way Estate, within walking distance of Cobham High Street. Set behind electric gates this stunning 6,534 sq ft property is finished to the highest standard, set over three floors. The property boasts a spacious entrance hall with a contemporary oak and glass bespoke staircase leading to all three floors. The reception rooms are spacious, well arranged with the kitchen/breakfast room/ family room benefitting from curved bi-folding doors leading onto the landscaped garden; truly bringing the outside in.
The accommodation comprises entrance hall, living room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room/family room, snug/media room, study, utility room, cloakroom, master bedroom suite with dressing room, two additional bedroom suites, three further bedrooms, family bathroom, additional bathroom, large terrace, garage and balcony. Luxurious features of the property include snug/media room situated on the ground floor, balcony to master bedroom suite which overlooks the landscaped garden and comfort cooling to all rooms situated on the top floor of the property. EPC Rating B. Guide Price ÂŁ3,595,000
For further information or if you would like to arrange an appointment to view please call Knight Frank Cobham on 01932 591 600, or visit the website at www.knightfrank.co.uk/cobham Property reference CBM140187 70 JANUARY 2015
KnightFrank.co.uk
Sheath Lane, Oxshott A charming five bedroom period property retaining an abundance of character features Reception hall • Family room • Dining room • Drawing room • Kitchen/Breakfast room Utility room • Cloakroom • Master bedroom suite with dressing room • Four additional bedrooms • Family bathroom • EPC Rating E Guide Price £1,650,000 (CBM140222)
KnightFrank.co.uk/Cobham cobham@knightfrank.com 01932 591 600
property H hOUSE HOUSE ous e && GARDEN ga GARDEN rden
72 JANUARY 2015
Queen Anne House, Oxshott, Surrey
Available for rental ÂŁ40,000 pcm
A simply spectacular, seven bedroom home of magnificent proportions in the heart of the prestigious Crown Estate. A truly majestic mansion constructed to the most exacting standards, featuring state of the art systems and combining classical finishes that blend seamlessly with the contemporary and luxurious interior design which creates a unique and very private home. The sumptuous accommodation has been carefully designed for entertaining on a grand scale, yet features secluded areas such as the lavish master bedroom suite with its own balconies and relaxing sitting room, study areas and a family room. Queen Anne House is arguably Surrey's finest residence within a truly exclusive private Estate, Oxshott's Crown Estate. EPC Rating B.
For further details, please contact Gavin Fleming F.A.R.L.A on 01932 865959 Esher 01372 464474 esher@chkmountford.co.uk
Cobham 01932 865959 cobham@chkmountford.co.uk
Surbiton 020 8390 7745 surbiton@chkmountford.co.uk
Weybridge, Surrey
Available for rental ÂŁ9,750 pcm
Built by Octagon Homes a beautifully proportioned and elegant, six bedroom detached family home situated on the foothills of St. George's Hill. Boasting excellent family accommodation over three floors. This light and bright home provides very comfortable living. Spacious entrance hall, cloakroom, drawing room, dining room, study, family room, utility room, Master bedroom with en suite bathroom, three further good size bedrooms with en suites. Bedroom 5/ games room, double bedroom, family shower room. Large private driveway. Double Garage. Landscaped lawned gardens with terrace area for outside dining. EPC Rating D.
For further details, please contact Holly Gray M.A.R.L.A. 01932 865959 Esher 01372 464474 esher@chkmountford.co.uk
Cobham 01932 865959 cobham@chkmountford.co.uk
Surbiton 020 8390 7745 surbiton@chkmountford.co.uk
To celebrate the launch of Newton Huxley Estate Agents we are offering you the chance to experience our sales or lettings service at a commission rate of 0%*
Commission rate available until 7th March 2015. Terms and conditions apply.
This offer is only available until 7th March 2015. To arrange a market appraisal or to find out more please call 020 8396 6717
020 8396 6717 Belhaven House, Walton Road, East Molesey, Surrey KT8 0DP www.newtonhuxley.co.uk