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HERMIONE NORRIS ‘I would consider surgery – I’d have the full works!’

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FIRST PERSON

Hiring a male escort saved my relationship

Make

TIME for YOU!

Why self-care really matters

RECHARGE & RELAX

✱ Create a spa at home

✱ Skincare resolutions

✱ 10 feel-good holidays

editor’s letter

MY FAB FOUR

Here are some of the best sustainable buys this month

Why we’re all GOING GREEN

PHOTO: NICKY JOHNSTON. *RESEARCH BY LAKELAND

T

he idea of making New Year’s resolutions always makes me go cold. I’ve made and broken more than I can remember over the years, only to feel like a failure. But no more. This year I’ve only made one. But it’s an important one. I am going to be more green. While my family and I have always ‘done our bit’ when it comes to recycling, there has got to be more we can do to help the planet in 2020 and beyond. Now the cardboard of Christmas is stashed in the green bin, the peelings in the brown one and our bags for life are stowed in the car boot, we are ready for action. According to a recent report, I’m not alone in this renewed push to be more eco-friendly. There is now an unstoppable ‘Blue Planet Movement’ triggering massive changes in our shopping habits. The research* reveals that since Blue Planet II aired, David Attenborough’s show has inspired many more of us to take on responsibility for our world. And as part of our commitment to the environment here at woman&home, we have now replaced our plastic packaging containing subscribers’ issues with sustainable paper to help you to continue to recycle responsibly. We’ve also taken on a new environment journalist, Lucy Siegle from The One Show, who will be advising us on how we can all do more – see Green Made Easy on page 135. Please drop me a line and tell me what positive changes you’re making this year.

PS

Recycled soap dish, £8.50, gardentrading.co.uk

Artisan glass beads, £19, per strand, lolaandmawu.com

Recycled plastic bottles throw, £26, oliverbonas.com

You’ll see we’ve given woman&home a New Year makeover.

Let me know what you think via the email address below.

CATHERINE WESTWOOD Editor-in-Chief, woman&home catherine.westwood@ti-media.com

Washable organic paper bag, £60, urbancoo.co.uk woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 3

AMBER GRAAFLAND has worked as a fashion and beauty journalist in a career spanning 80s excess, 90s heroin chic and noughties exhibitionism. She appears regularly on Sky News, the BBC and Radio 4’s Your & Yours, discussing everything from the latest fashion trends to what the royals are wearing. She writes our Ageless Style feature on p80.

Who or what was your first love?

A pair of baby blue plastic wedges I got for my seventh birthday. I refused to take them off and even wore them on a walking holiday in the Lake District.

Author VICTORIA HISLOP has written six novels and numerous short stories. Her number-one bestseller The Island was televised in Greece, and last year, Those Who Are Loved also became a numberone bestseller. On p42 she explains why the best things in life are free.

Who or what was your first love?

When I was around five, my parents bought me a Siamese kitten.

I absolutely adored her and Suzy grew up to be the most delicately beautiful cat in the world, in my view – the quintessential definition of ‘feline’.

LUCY SIEGLE is a journalist and broadcaster on environmental issues, whose new Green Made Easy column is on p135.

Ten years ago, she began The Green Carpet Challenge with Livia Firth to get sustainable fashion on the map.

She’s a trustee for Surfers Against Sewage in Cornwall, and loves to wild swim.

Who or what was your first love?

Bono. I went to a school in the foothills of the Dublin mountains and we used to watch his car drive past in the 80s.

He’s on a relentless quest for social justice. Plus Achtung Baby is a classic.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF CATHERINE WESTWOOD EXECUTIVE EDITOR Miranda McMinn GROUP LIFESTYLE DIRECTOR Geoffrey Palmer GROUP CREATIVE DIRECTOR Phil Attaway GROUP CHIEF SUB EDITOR Emma Badger

LIFESTYLE DIRECTOR Jayne Marsden GROUP FASHION DIRECTOR Paula Moore FASHION EDITOR Hannah Hughes DEPUTY FASHION EDITOR Eloisa Johnson SENIOR FASHION STYLIST Becky Joiner-O’Riordan SENIOR FASHION WRITER Millie Gooch GROUP BEAUTY DIRECTORS Charley Williams-Howitt and Sarah Cooper-White BEAUTY EDITORS Fiona McKim and Stephanie Maylor ACTING BEAUTY EDITOR Jessica Beech

HEAD OF ART OPERATIONS Alison Walter SENIOR ART EDITOR Katherine Stock SENIOR DESIGNER Christopher McPhail SENIOR DESIGNER Katie Harris

HEALTH & FITNESS EDITOR Lucy Gornall WELLBEING EDITOR Faye M Smith SENIOR HEALTH WRITER Natalia Lubomirski SENIOR HEALTH WRITER Tanya Pearey HEALTH WRITERS Ali Horsfall and Eleanor Vousden

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FOOD DIRECTOR Elisa Roche FOOD EDITOR Samuel Goldsmith SENIOR FOOD WRITER Rose Fooks FOOD WRITER Jessica Ransom HOMES EDITOR Holly Walsh

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EDITORIAL COMPLAINTS We work hard to achieve the highest standards of editorial content, and we are committed to complying with the Editors’ Code of Practice (https://www.ipso.co.uk/IPSO/cop.html) as enforced by IPSO. If you have a complaint about our editorial content, you can email us at complaints@ ti-media.com or write to Complaints Manager, TI Media Limited Legal Department, 161 Marsh Wall, London E14 9AF. Please provide details of the material you are complaining about and explain your complaint by reference to the Editors’ Code. We will endeavour to acknowledge your complaint within 5 working days and we aim to correct substantial errors as soon as possible.

PHOTOS: LIZ McAULAY, ALAMY

MEET OUR CONTRIBUTORS

Join the conversation!

WE LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU, SO LET US KNOW YOUR OPINIONS, YOUR STORIES – AND ANYTHING THAT MATTERS IN YOUR LIFE MISSING GODDESS Oh my! Just read Fiona Gibson’s article on losing her inner domestic goddess.

I know just how she feels – as a single mother I used to hate that question ‘What’s for tea?’.

Now my daughter has flown the nest I’m afraid I simply can’t be bothered.

Plus I’m very lucky to now have a husband who loves to cook, otherwise I too would live on toast and chocolate!

Nicky, by email

PHOTOS: DAVE BENETT/GETTY IMAGES, GETTY IMAGES/JOHNER RF

A FAB AGE I loved Miranda McMinn’s ‘Why it’s brilliant being 53’ column [November issue].

Like her, I’m more content than I’ve ever been in my 50s. But what made me really smile was what Miranda said about ‘the reassurance of the nod’, and communicating silently and supportively with other women of our own age. I did that very thing this week. Walking out in my new baker boy cap I noticed a woman walking towards me, around my age, clearly rocking her own cap – we smiled and nodded in acknowledgement of each other. Far from shrinking into the background, women are anything but invisible to each other in their 50s – and yes, it’s brilliant being 57!

Karen, by email

THE COST OF CARING A reader letter on looking after elderly parents provoked an amazing and heartfelt response: I had a tyrannical mother who made my life a misery from childhood until she died, just short of her 98th birthday. I deeply resented her incessant demands but felt that I couldn’t abandon her. I’m glad that, with help from carers, I was able to keep her at her home, and as a result I can look back without any feelings of guilt. I have also learnt a valuable lesson – that the greatest gift we can give our children is independence.

Name supplied, by email At 63 I had counselling, as I was struggling to look after my mother who was unable to see anyone else’s needs but her own. I had long since given up trying to find her approval – nothing I did was good enough.

I decided to ‘do the right thing’ and support her, but it was exhausting.

She died aged 93 and I can honestly say I feel nothing but relief, and I refuse to feel guilty about that.

Linda, by email My sister and I cared for our mother through her last years, and it wasn’t easy. We were devoted to her and made her life special in so many ways.

We managed her care between us, but every case is different. As long as you can hold your head up and say ‘We did our best’.

G Turner, by email

6%

6%

I’M SINGLE

I PROPOSED

88%

THEY PROPOSED

WE ASKED

With a nod to this leap year, how many of you proposed to your partners?

SHE SAID ITÉ

‘The best way to lose weight is to put the handle of the fridge two inches from the ground’ Dawn French, 62, writer, actress, comedian and presenter Dawn is brilliantly versatile.

Discover more of our favourite funny women on page 28.

WHAT YOU TOLD US

I’ve just finished The Taking of Annie Thorne by C.J. Tudor – it’s a thrilling supernatural mystery about two children who disappear decades apart and then return. Barbara Copperthwaite Let us know what you’ve been reading on our Reading Room FB page. womanandhome

GET IN TOUCH Want to comment on a feature, share an opinion or tell us about your life? Email us at w&hmail@ti-media.com or write to w&h Letters, TI Media, 161 Marsh Wall, London E14 9AP. Emails and letters may be edited and published. woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 5

W&H IN THIS ISSUE 50 Caring for animals

Great reads 16

20 22 24

27 28 32

37 38 42

46

48

50

55 58

ON THE COVER

Hermione Norris ‘I would consider surgery – I’d have the full works!’

How to stay strong Turn your weaknesses into strengths 10 ways to a younger brain Smart tips to keep your intellect sharp ON THE COVER Why self-care really matters Learn the art of mindful breathing and meditation Take a chance on love Veronica Henry on getting back in the dating game Funny girls A round-up of some of our favourite comic women We wouldn’t let anything hold us back Meet the women embracing their body differences ‘Good friendships can feed your soul’ Sara Cox’s life lessons The great midlife survey Find out what women like you are really thinking The best things in life are free What brings you the greatest joy?

For these women it’s the sunshine and sea, hillwalking and foraging My two families The urge to find her birth parents led to some shocking surprises for one reader What to say when your friend has cancer The best ways to support anyone diagnosed with the illness The reason we put animals first Why these women have dedicated their lives to caring for their furry and feathered friends Are you Lidl class? Fiona Gibson explores our obsession with thrift ON THE COVER First person ‘Hiring a male escort saved my relationship’

6 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

32

Inspirational women

72 easonal style

62 We run female-friendly businesses Hear from entrepreneurs who have created companies with an ethos of supporting women at work

Fashion & beauty

130

69 If you buy one thing this month Slick on a lip gloss 70 New ways with denim Four ways to instantly update your look 72 Layer up! Add a little spring into your winter wardrobe 80 Top 10 for spring Get ready for a chic season ahead, says Amber Graafland 84 Your shape your way! Flattering outfit ideas and styling advice 88 ON THE COVER Create a spa at home Use your beauty regime as an opportunity to de-stress 94 ON THE COVER Skincare resolutions Future-proof your face 97 What I really use Alexandra Shulman shares her beauty wisdom

Health & wellbeing

99 If you try one thing this month Boost your relationship 100 ON THE COVER Lose 7lb in two weeks – yes you can! Plus save £15 on an online Slimming World membership 108 Get your hunger under control How to feel fuller for longer

Home improvements

ON THE COVER: HERMIONE NORRIS PHOTO: DAN KENNEDY. STYLING: RACHEL FANCONI. HAIR & MAKE-UP: IAN McINTOSH AT CAROL HAYES MANAGEMENT. HERMIONE WEARS: JACKET, EDWARD SEXTON; SHIRT, FRAME AT SQUAREONELONDON.COM; JEANS, FRAME AT TRILOGY; EARRINGS, HERMIONE’S OWN; BEE NECKLACE, ALEX MONROE; GOLD AND LABRADORITE NECKLACE, VAN PETERSON

158

88

Rejuvenating getaways

Pamper yourself at home

110

146

ON THE COVER

Find your perfect workout Try something new this year 115 Dry January? Bring it on! Follow these steps to an alcohol-free month 118 Your health Ask Dr Rosemary Leonard

Something sweet

Homes, food & travel

123 If you do one thing this month Get a cheap deal on your holiday 124 Design for living Building a new home from scratch, plus how you can get the look 130 ON THE COVER Hot property Seven tips to add value to your home 136 ON THE COVER Eat healthy every day Low-cal comfort food recipes 146 Sweet treats for all Delicious bakes for special dietary needs 152 ON THE COVER 10 feel-good holidays Retreats to recharge your senses 158 w&h cruise special Set sail on a luxury cruise – here are some new ideas

Time for you

Warming recipes

136

166 w&h book club Our favourite reads, plus B.A. Paris shares her writing secrets 169 In conversation with Novelist Libby Page talks about the power of stories 172 Falling in Love all over Again An exclusive short story by Cathy Kelly 174 w&h weekend Great entertainment 176 Hot tickets The events you can’t miss

Cruise holidays

152

In every issue

5 9 11 13 15 67

Join the conversation! Have your say High street heroes Fab fashion picks Best beauty buys Get a winter glow Mood of the month Cosy up at home It’s all about you! Street style fashion Smart with money How to spend smarter and save money this month 135 Green made easy Expert advice on living a more sustainable life 193 Your stars February horoscopes 194 Town & Country City lights or country fireside? Kathy Lette and Katie Fforde battle it out in this new column

Offers

45 Free tickets to exclusive screenings of Military Wives A feel-good movie 54 Jane Plan Try the w&h diet 57 15% off at Living Proof Plus free shampoo with your purchase 83 ON THE COVER 20% off at JD Williams 120 Subscribe to w&h Save up to 50%

SUBSCRIBE TO W&H

Want to order a subscription?

Go to womanandhome.com/ JANSALE20 for our fantastic offer for you this month. woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 7

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Transform your existing staircase with no mess, no fuss and best of all no building work

W&H UPDATE

HIGH STREET HEROES Blazer, £69, sizes 6-24, M&S

WARM TONES Dress, £49.99, sizes xs-xl, Zara

SALVATORE FERRAGAMO

Trousers, £80, sizes 6-16, French Connection

COMPILED BY: ELOISA JOHNSON PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES

Earrings, £15.99, Mango

Boots £175, Jigsaw

Bracelet, £25, Accessorize

Shoes, £75, Dune London

Bag, £69, Whistles

Skirt, £15, sizes 4-20, Primark Blouse, £17.99, sizes l-4xl, H&M+ woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 9

Discover the UK’s No.1 Anti-ageing Neck Cream Ageless Throat & Decolletage Creme FIRMS–LIFTS–TONES visible results in just 7 days

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Available at M&S

W&H UPDATE

BEST BEAUTY BUYS 1. Powder with pow!

Intensely flattering and won’t settle into lines, this blends like a powder but creates a liquid-like glow.

BECCA Pearl Glow Luster Powder, £32, Boots

1

2 WINTER GLOW

3

2. Moisture boost Creating a glow that lasts, this oil/serum hybrid is packed with nourishing ingredients for a gleaming finish. Glossier Futuredew, £23, glossier.com

3. Bright eyes WORDS: CHARLEY WILLIAMS-HOWITT. PHOTO: PAUL WESTLAKE. HAIR: GERALD DECOCK. MAKE-UP: KAORI CHLOE SODA

Banish dark circles and puffiness with a blend of caffeine, hyaluronic acid and peptides. GLAMGLOW Bright Eyes Cream, £29, glamglow.co.uk

4. Spritz it on Perk up parched skin in seconds with this enriched natural oil spray – it’s perfect for use over make-up, leaving a light glow. PIXI Glow Mist, £16, M&S

5. Instant radiance

4

Add a few drops of No7’s clever liquid serum highlighter to your usual foundation to create a ‘lit from within’ finish. No7 Custom Blend Highlighting Drops, £13.50, Boots

6. Glow on the go This compact pen creates a soft-focused ‘filter’ that bathes your skin in flattering light. It’s quick drying but stays dewy all day. Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Light Wand in Goldgasm, £29, charlottetilbury.com

7. Plump it up When your skin craves extra hydration, the brightening vitamin C in this luxury cream gives thirsty skin a baby-soft bounce. Ole Henriksen C-Rush Brightening Double Crème, £36, Boots

5

6

7 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 11

W&H UPDATE

MOOD OF THE MONTH

Tuck accent armchair in Mustard, £349; new sheepskin rug quad in Grey, £175; eave embroidery cushion in Navy/Grey, £25; waffle throw in Citrine, £30; all John Lewis & Partners

GET COSY

Komati Chocolate vintage cushion, £37, Shekåbba

3-pint jug, £34, Falcon

COMPILED BY: HOLLY WALSH

Cacao & Vanilla candle, £12, Hotel Chocolat

Cashmere bed socks, £28, Soak & Sleep

Turtle Green Natura flat paint, £26.50 for 0.95L, Benjamin Moore Teapot, £150, Bluebellgray

Shetland herringbone throw, £85, Bronte by Moon

Wicker basket, £14, Sainsbury’s Home woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 13

A n ew tr avel site made for people who love to tr avel by pe ople w h o l ove to tr avel.

Specialising in l u x ur y, f amil y and adventure tr avel inspir a t ion.

W&H UPDATE

@mrsmlmode, 52, takes a walk on the wild side in chic leopard print

COMPILED BY: @PAULAMOORESTYLE, @MILLIEGOOCH AND MANUELA TINTO

@nanie_world, 30, shows how to let your accessories do the talking

@simpson.house, 48, proves a classic trench never dates

IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

@mamastillgotit_, 39, works the check trend with ease

#W&H STREET STYLE

@glamamuma, 40, teams faux fur and leather for sports-luxe style @venswifestyle, 54, adds figureflattering details to her layers

@40notfrumpy, 46, adds trainers to her shirt dress for a modern update

@justalpatri, 46, easily pulls off double denim – a tricky trend!

#W&HSTREETSTYLE Add your pictures and tag @womanandhome or email w&hstreetstyle@ti-media.com to join in woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 15

‘I LOVE THE AGE I AM NOW!’

Cold Feet star Hermione Norris talks to Hayley Minn about body confidence, kissing co-stars and meeting the love of her life at work t’s official – Hermione Norris is the woman behind some of our favourite TV moments. For over a decade we’ve laughed and cried with her character Karen in Cold Feet, and last year she had the nation gripped as evil psychiatrist Vivien in Luther.

So it’s refreshing to see the real Hermione on our shoot – laid-back, quick to laugh, and very easy to chat to.

She reveals that while she loves her job, it does come with its downsides. ‘Of course there’s a pressure to look good in the TV industry,’ she says. ‘Because you’ve got a camera in your face all the time!’ Which goes to explain why she handles our photo shoot with such ease.

She also shows us a side we haven’t seen before, getting surprisingly emotional when she talks about her love for her husband, Simon Wheeler.

They married in 2002, a year after they met on the set of Wire in the Blood, where he worked on its production.

Hermione also opens up about losing her father when she was just 21 and, as a result of that heartbreak, how much she cherishes being a mother to son, Wilf, 15, and daughter, Hero, 12.

16 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

I love being the age I am now! I don’t know why, but even when I was very young I wanted to be in my 50s. The experience you have gleaned by this chapter of your life means you feel more comfortable in your own skin, more at ease. It has taken me until I’m 52 to really feel like I’ve grown into myself.

I worry about my children when it comes to body confidence because today’s standards are absolutely ridiculous. For example, the stars on the red carpet have had facials, body scrubs, various treatments and stylists.

Then they’ve had their hair coloured and cut, and they’ve had their nails done.

It’s a team – no, it’s an army.

Having said that, I would consider surgery. I’d have the full works. I’d have a tummy tuck, a boob lift. I’d have it all – if it made me feel better.

Losing my father when I was 21 and in drama school was a huge trauma.

Losing anybody prematurely is shocking and the grief is beyond devastating.

And trying to get your head, your heart and your soul around that, it really >>

cover story

woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 17

‘My husband wrote in his diary he was going to marry me the night he met me’

18 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

cover story knocked my confidence. It wiped the floor with me and it took me a long time to find my balance.

Life is for living – it’s experiential.

It’s not for being endlessly filmed and photographed and witnessed. These days it feels as if everything has to be documented for it to be real, and that can’t be good for our mental health.

PHOTOS: DAN KENNEDY. STYLING: RACHEL FANCONI. HAIR & MAKE-UP: IAN McINTOSH AT CAROL HAYES MANAGEMENT. PREVIOUS SPREAD: JUMPER, N.PEAL; TROUSERS, BRUCE OLDFIELD; TRAINERS, JIGSAW. OPPOSITE PAGE: COAT, MAX MARA AT FENWICK; SWEATER AND CAMISOLE, EILEEN FISHER; TROUSERS, ME+EM; BOOTS, STIVALERIACAVALLIN.COM; CASHMERE SCARF, COCOWAICASHMERE.CO.UK; ALL JEWELLERY, HERMIONE’S OWN

Being a mum is the most profound and transformative experience. It’s the gift of love because I believe that that’s what life is all about. The love you feel for your child is like a constant gift.

Cold Feet is as much about the audience as it is about the show because we’ve grown up with them.

I’ve never worked on anything where the cast are so passionate. We have such a sense of responsibility of wanting to deliver good stories as well as honest and joyful experiences for our audience.

When it was first suggested that my character, Karen, and Adam, played by Jimmy Nesbitt, would get together, we were both asked for our thoughts. We agreed that if it worked, it would bring the group together. But it’s one of those things that could make or break it, so we were really mindful about how it was done. It needed to be believable and rooted in truth.

Kissing each other was strange, as we’ve known each other for so long.

In fact, when we shot that first kiss scene, even the cast and crew found it weird!

I hope fans accepted the romance, but I have a way of thinking where I do my job, then won’t look at what fans think or feel – because it’s none of my business.

The night my husband and I met, he wrote in his diary that he was going to marry me. We went out for dinner with Robson Green and his team before filming Wire in the Blood. Simon and I only spoke briefly because he was on the other side of the big table we were all sat at. He makes my shoulders drop – seeing him is like coming home. It just makes me want to cry, I love him so much. ✱ Cold Feet returns to ITV this month.

QUICK-FIRE QUESTIONS

✱ MOST DESIRED TALENT? I’d love more than anything to be able to sing or play the piano. I’d love to experience what it must be like to have an amazing singing voice and to be able to belt out a song. I’m dreadful, my children laugh when I sing.

Great Dane called Ophelia, and an English Pointer called Bess. They are gorgeous.

✱ DESERT ISLAND MUST-HAVE? A cup of Twinings Everyday tea, which I would sip all day long.

✱ WHAT WOULD YOU CHANGE? I’d love a great big mane of thick, floppy hair. My hair is limiting, it drives me up the wall. I’d love to cut it, do things with it. It just won’t do anything because there’s nothing there.

✱ MOST TREASURED POSSESSION? My dogs. I have a

✱ IDEAL DAY? Just being at home with my family and going for walks somewhere really beautiful in Dorset.

woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 19

How to

STAY STRONG Stop beating yourself up! We can all turn our weaknesses into strengths, says Claire Cantor

H

as your fear of ‘not getting things perfectly right’ held you back in life? While friends love us for our openness and fallibility, we berate ourselves for our lack of resilience and not feeling ‘good enough’. Well now’s the time to embrace any vulnerabilities that may affect relationships, family life and careers, and turn them to our advantage.

OUR EXPERTS

ALICE OLINS is a femalefocused career coach and founder of the Step Up Club; stepupclub.co

ROB MOORE, author, investor and podcaster, has written 14 books, including the bestseller I’m Worth More; robmoore.com DR PAUL WONG is a registered clinical psychologist who originated Meaning Therapy; drpaulwong.com 20 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

Feel good

1

BE YOURSELF

‘Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself.’ So said fashion icon Coco Chanel. Comparing ourselves to others is like being squeezed by an insidious snake until we are paralysed, agonising over what other people think of us. Rob Moore warns that it can be an endless and empty pursuit to never feel good enough, or believe that we haven’t done enough. Yet without that feeling, we would rest on our laurels and nothing would grow. We can still be kind to ourselves and improve, says Dr Paul Wong – they are not incompatible. ✱ DO IT Set regular, incremental goals and challenges for yourself, says Moore. Make them a stretch but achievable, and pursue them with as much enthusiasm as you can. Once you hit your goal, big or small, then celebrate.

2

PRACTISE SAYING ‘NO’

PHOTOS: GETTY IMAGES/ISTOCKPHOTO, ZUTE LIGHTFOOT

To have a great career and find your own space in the workplace, you have to be able to say ‘no’ to distractions, minutiae and politics. Avoid being pulled in all directions. Champion your strengths, skills and passions. ✱ DO IT Try saying ‘Yes, but not now’, suggests Moore, or ‘Can we book a time to discuss this?’. Avoid overloading yourself by asking what existing tasks you could drop in order to fit this new task in, and clarify the priorities. Set boundaries by being honest about what you can and can’t fulfil, and very realistic about time frames and deadlines. Start to feel comfortable being assertive and gently build your confidence.

3

BUILD YOUR RESILIENCE

Being vulnerable is not the same as being weak, says Dr Wong, it is part of being human. We fear trusting the wrong person, making the wrong decision, failing and getting hurt.

Facing our fears and taking risks builds our resilience and makes us stronger for the challenges ahead. ✱ DO IT Change from a mindset of avoiding painful emotions to one of embracing and overcoming them, encourages Dr Wong. Accept that taking knocks is an inevitable part of life. Look around your friends – reflect on their emotional setbacks and recognise how they’ve come through stronger and more resilient.

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LET YOUR INNER VOICE HELP

There’s that persistent gremlin whispering in your ears again, sapping your confidence. Or is it? Could it be a motivating force, rather than a controlling one? That inner critical voice derives from our survival instinct, explains Moore, keeping us safe by reminding us of our limitations or past mistakes. Alice Olins says problems arise when the volume is too high and its presence too constant.

Recognise this voice as a feeling, rather than as fact, and put it back in its box when it creates too many doubts. ✱ DO IT When you hear that negative inner voice, accept that it may be there to help – and face the challenges it presents by taking small risks. For example, if you want to join a gym but feel daunted, ask yourself why.

Maybe you feel too old or flabby – or both? Instead of backing down, ask for a tour. You’ll soon see a wide variety of people there – if you don’t, try elsewhere.

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6

YOU RECOGNISE IMPOSTER SYNDROME

No one is immune from imposter syndrome and self-doubt – an actor stepping onto the stage, a newly appointed director of an organisation, mums and dads trying to navigate the minefield of parenthood. We fear we don’t deserve our position or that everything will come crashing down around us. Moore believes that the fear is there to keep us in balance, driven and motivated towards growth and progress. The key is not to be consumed or overwhelmed by it. You are not where and who you are today simply by luck or chance. It’s time to recognise your own value. ✱ DO IT Be a warrior and fight off imposter syndrome by using it as a force for good. Olins recommends writing down a list of your personal and professional wins over the past six to 12 months. Keep adding to the list over the weeks. Train your brain away from the default negatives, and towards the positives.

‘Being vulnerable is not the same as being weak – it is part of being human’

CONFRONT, ACKNOWLEDGE AND THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX

When the ground beneath you doesn’t feel solid, it’s time to find creative solutions that lead to growth and change. Acknowledge those vulnerabilities, and channel their energy to power you forward. ✱ DO IT Olins says comfort isn’t key to achievement. If you’re feeling nervous before a meeting, remind yourself that’s a natural result of the fight or flight hormone adrenaline. Harness its power, breathe deeply and smile.

Remember everyone in the room is rooting for a good result. Seek out mentors and allies who genuinely want to support you. woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 21

10 ways to a

YOUNGER BRAIN Wind back the clock by following these smart tips to keep your intellect sharp

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id you know that the brain starts shrinking from the age of 30? Or that from the age of 40 our brain volume is lost at a rate of 5% per decade*? Yep, that grey matter we rely on to help us do everything from mundane tasks, such as brushing our teeth all the way through to more complex tasks such as processing our emotions, may start to fail us before we’ve even hit midlife.

While this could make for grim reading, the good news is that advances in scientific research mean we no longer need to accept this fact as something that’s inevitable. There are concrete steps we can take to effectively press the pause button on the brain’s ageing process, grow new brain cells – via a fascinating, yet little-known process called neurogenesis – and generally keep our brains in tip-top condition as we move through the decades. In her book 100 Days to a Younger Brain (Orion Spring), Dr Sabina Brennan, a leading research psychologist and neuroscientist, talks us through how to do just this.

22 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

1

FOLLOW THE MEDITERRANEAN WAY OF EATING

The Mediterranean diet has a healthier balance between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids than other Western diets, and both these essential fatty acids are linked to preventing degenerative brain conditions including Alzheimer’s disease. So load your shopping basket with foods rich in these fatty acids, such as oily fish (try salmon and sardines), nuts and olive oil. And just like people on the continent, make fruit and vegetables a key feature of your daily diet. They’re packed with antioxidant nutrients – key ones for the brain are betacarotene and vitamins C and E – which help to neutralise free radicals that can damage brain cells.

2

DAYDREAM

It might surprise you to learn that your brain becomes even more active when you’re daydreaming than when you are actively paying attention. When your mind wanders or when you’re not actively focused on a task, a particular group of brain regions, called the default mode network, actually become more active. If you’d like more light-bulb moments in your life, don’t be afraid to relax and let your super brain come up with solutions and ideas.

3

KEEP YOUR BRAIN HYDRATED Water helps both to deliver key nutrients to the brain and to remove toxins. The Government recommends drinking six to eight glasses of fluid per day, but you’ll need to adjust your intake depending on factors, such as hot weather and whether you’re exercising.

4

SOCIALISE, SOCIALISE, SOCIALISE

Social support has been shown to positively impact our cognitive function and brain health. Though scientists are not exactly sure how this works, one idea is that it buffers the negative effect of chronic stress on the brain. So boost your social life and forge new relationships by doing everything from volunteering for a local cause (find lots of opportunities at do-it.org) to joining interest groups via sites such as meetup.com

Feel good

7

YOU

CHALLENGE YOURSELF

Any new experience that involves mental effort is likely to bring about changes in the neural systems that help us develop new skills. This can be as simple as finding your way around a new town on holiday, or slightly more challenging, such as learning to play a musical instrument.

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MANAGE STRESS

COMPILED BY: MIRIAM HABTESELLASIE, ADAPTED FROM: 100 DAYS TO A YOUNGER BRAIN BY DR SABINA BRENNAN, OUT NOW IN PAPERBACK. PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES. *AGEING AND THE BRAIN, POSTGRAD MED J. **INDIANA UNIVERSITY

Persistently high levels of stress hormones can inhibit learning and impair memory. Manage stress by seeking support from family, friends and a health professional if needed. Make time for the leisure activities you enjoy and practise mindfulness to ‘stay in the moment’ and so avoid negative thoughts or memories.

5

REDUCE RISK FACTORS FOR HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE Blood pressure is also important for brain health. Your heart works like a pump: when it clenches, it’s using pressure to push blood through your arteries around your body and to your brain. To support this process, you want to ensure your blood pressure is within the normal range (90/60mmHg to 120/80mmHg) and reduce risk factors for high blood pressure. These include smoking, inactivity and too much salt in your diet (the Government recommends a maximum of 6g of salt/2.4g of sodium per day). Ask your GP to check your blood pressure or buy your own monitor.

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PRIORITISE SLEEP

Disrupted sleep can harm your cognitive function. When your brain is deprived of sleep the active process of your brain’s waste clearance system (called the glymphatic system) may not have sufficient time to give your brain the deep clean it needs to function well. A build-up of waste products from cells is associated with almost all neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease. Create the conditions for a good sleep with a calming bedtime ritual – a bath and a book are a fail-safe combo – and take practical measures to turn your bedroom into a sleep-inducing haven, such as fitting blackout blinds and investing in a comfortable mattress.

9

SAY YES TO LIFELONG LEARNING

Learning is like a powerful brainchanging drug generating new brain cells and networks. There are hundreds of free Massive Online Open Courses (MOOCs) on all subjects, or sign up at your local college to learn a new skill.

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STAND MORE

Our brains actually perform better when we stand. One study found that those who completed the Stroop test – where participants have to name colours written as words, but displayed in different colours (such as the word green shown in blue) – while standing, performed significantly better than those who took it while sitting**.

RELAX

It’s as easy as breathing You breathe 22,000 times a day, and by doing it mindfully, you can free yourself from stress

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our breath is the greatest asset you have. Of course, its primary function is to keep us alive by bringing oxygen into your body. But it is also naturally meditative. It reflects your most powerful emotions and if you learn to understand it, can either soothe or harness them.

There is an art to breathing correctly, and it’s one that many of us have forgotten.

HOW BREATHING WORKS

Breathing relies on the big, powerful muscles of the diaphragm, the abdomen and the intercostal muscles that lie between the ribs. It is helped along by the smaller secondary muscles of the neck, shoulders and upper ribs.

When you are upset, anxious or stressed, the abdomen tenses and prevents the big primary muscles from working. Instead, they begin tugging against each other, leaving the secondary muscles to do all the work.

But the secondary muscles are only designed to shoulder 20% of the burden, so they become stressed.

If this continues, it can lead to chronic tension in the shoulders and neck, headaches and fatigue, and increasingly 24 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

Feel good

shallower breathing. It’s a vicious cycle that lies behind much of our anxiety, stress and unhappiness. But there is an equally powerful virtuous cycle that you can cultivate by learning the art of breathing.

It’s at the heart of mindfulness and as old as meditation itself. You can learn the basics in just a few minutes, although mastering it takes a little longer.

UNDERSTANDING MINDFULNESS AND YOUR MIND

Mindfulness is simply full, conscious awareness of whatever thoughts, feelings and emotions are flowing through your mind, body and breath without judging or criticising them in any way. It is being fully aware of whatever is happening in the present moment.

The aim of mindfulness is not to clear the mind of thoughts. It is to understand how your mind works. It teaches you to observe how your thoughts and feelings rise and fall like waves. And in the calm spaces lie moments of piercing insight.

You come to learn that happiness is fleeting, while unhappiness lingers.

Psychologists call it the negativity bias.

It skews perception and makes the world seem far harsher than it actually is.

The negativity bias ensures that it takes five positive experiences to balance a single negative one. It’s no more difficult than tuning into the breath while paying attention to the little pleasures of daily life. It means noticing the sights, sounds, smells and textures that surround you, and soaking up the tastes and aromas of everything you consume. And while you do so, gently remind yourself that most of life’s difficulties are only half as bad as they appear, while the good things are two or three times as intense.

LISTEN TO YOUR BODY

Through mindfulness, you will come to learn that thoughts, feelings and emotions are created by the body as much as the brain. It’s called embodied cognition.

A fleeting moment of stress, for example, creates tension in the body. The brain senses this and interprets it as stress.

The body tenses a little more, breathing becomes a little shallower, the brain feels more stressed. It’s a downward spiral.

Mindful breathing will teach you that your most powerful states of mind are reflected in the body as physical sensations. Anxiety might appear as nausea. Stress as a headache. Depression might trigger physical pain – a broken

Try this little mindful breathing meditation

WORDS: DR DANNY PENMAN. PHOTOS: GETTY IMAGES

All you need is a chair, a body, some air, your mind… that’s it ✱ Sit on a straight-backed chair. Place your feet flat on the floor, your spine 2-3cm from the back of the chair. ✱ Be comfortable, with a relaxed but straight back.

Place your hands loosely in your lap. Close your eyes. ✱ Focus your mind on your breath as it flows in and out. Feel the sensations the air makes. Feel the rise and fall of your chest and stomach. ✱ Where are the strongest feelings? Nose, mouth, throat, stomach, chest, shoulders? Pay attention and explore the feelings. Don’t try to alter them in any way. ✱ When your mind wanders, bring it back to your breath. Be kind to yourself. Minds wander. It’s what they do. Realising that your mind has wandered and bringing it back to your breath is the meditation. It’s a little moment of mindfulness. ✱ After five or 10 minutes, gently open your eyes and take in what you can see, hear, feel and smell.

You can download or stream this Breathing Meditation from franticworld.com/aob

YOU

heart, perhaps. Be aware of these sensations – each one is a message.

If you consciously listen to these messages by actively feeling them in your body, you’ll realise that they rise and fall like your breath. And before long they’ll begin to melt away, leaving behind a calmer, happier and more insightful mind.

MEDITATE UNDER THE STARS

You’ll probably spend 36 minutes worrying today (most people do).

Perspective dissolves worry. Instead of worrying, why not go outside and breathe? Even better, gaze at the stars.

Take off your shoes and socks. Feel the ground beneath your feet. Look upwards. Breathe. See the stars streaming off into infinity in every direction.

Focus on your breath. Feel the cool night air washing over you. Look at the stars… those twinkles may have taken billions of years to reach you.

Breathe… love the arriving of the light… breathe. ✱ The Art of Breathing by Dr Danny Penman (HQ) is out now. He is also co-author of the 1.5 million-selling book, Mindfulness.

from the heart

Take a CHANCE ON LOVE

This year’s resolution has to be extra meaningful, says Veronica Henry.

So is it finally time for her to get back in the dating game?

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elcome to 2020! How pleasing that number looks. And it’s particularly special because it marks the beginning not just of a new year but a new decade. Which to me means my resolution must be more meaningful than usual, not just the usual Fitbit/ Marie Kondo/Dry January clichés.

It should be something that takes me out of my comfort zone. I used to do something to shake things up every five years – change jobs, move house, have a baby – but of late I have kept everything the same, as life has been turbulent enough. So what should my 2020 mega-resolution be? I’m happy with my job, I can’t move house, and babies are out of the question.

I know the answer, of course. It’s been whispering in my ear ever since my decree absolute landed on the doormat, and I’ve been ignoring it. Everyone else keeps reminding me, though. ‘Have you found someone yet?’ they ask.

Until now, I haven’t really been ready.

In the past six years, I’ve been divorced, lost my beloved dad and been through the menopause. Oh, and my nest is nearly empty, after 30 years. I’ve come out the other side now, but along the way my confidence has been knocked.

I’ve changed. So I’m not sure who I am or what I want. Which makes me nervous.

But it would be fun to have someone to pour me a glass of wine while I chop onions for the spag bol (or the other way around). To plan a city break. To have

someone who might want the sections of the Saturday paper I put in the recycling.

And so it seems I need to launch myself into internet dating. If I had a penny for everyone who has told me they know someone who met the love of their life online, I’d be checking into the George V in Paris. But it’s terrifying!

I make my living with words but I can’t for the life describe myself. ‘Successful romantic novelist living by the sea – loves Negronis’ has hints of Barbara Cartland.

‘Single mother of three boys, loves baking and beach walks with my dog’ sounds deathly dull.

As for photographs, it seems I’ve got to find a picture of myself looking cute in a cashmere beanie or svelte in a ski suit. Ha! Nope. I’ve got to make do with what I’ve got. Do I go for the flattering shot of me blow-dried and made-up and looking quite foxy? Or a selfie on the beach, no make-up, hair flying, resplendent in leggings and my dad’s old Puffa? Both of these are me, after all. Perhaps that’s the trick? Showing all the different sides of you. Some days I’m channelling Courtney Love; others Mrs Tiggy-Winkle.

And what do I want from a potential suitor? More than one person has told me to write The List – a list of all the attributes I want. Then, apparently, the universe will find him for you. But surely you can’t be too prescriptive? It’s not like

mixing a cocktail – two shots of success, a dash of good looks, a squeeze of wit.

There are deal-breakers, of course.

Kindness and generosity of spirit are my two. Other than that, I’m not too bothered whether he is Joe DiMaggio or Arthur Miller, though I’ll probably veer towards the latter, not being good with balls.

Deep down, though, I’m scared. Of making a bad choice. Of finding The One and discovering I’m not his dream woman. Of being the only person never to get a Match or a Like.

But maybe it is time to spin the wheel and take a risk? In fact, maybe that’s an idea for an app? Romantic Roulette – where you get to go on a date with whomever the dice chooses for you. Maybe the chances of finding true love would increase if you didn’t have to sift through endless profiles, but left it to fate.

So my resolution for 2020 is to grasp the nettle and get online.

After all, as my friend pointed out when I panicked, ‘Darling, you don’t have to marry them. Just have some fun!’

I fire up the laptop and as I type ‘dating sites’ into the search engine I find myself humming an ABBA tune. Of course it is.

Take a chance on me. ✱ Veronica Henry is the bestselling author of over 20 novels and her next, A Wedding at the Beach Hut, will be published May 2020.

‘Some days I’m channelling Courtney Love; others Mrs Tiggy-Winkle’

woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 27

Dawn French 62, Jennifer Saunders, 61 Awesome alone (including Dawn’s Vicar of Dibley and Jen’s Absolutely Fabulous), they’re adored together. ✱ MEMORABLE MOMENT Gone With The Wind spoof, with Jennifer as Scarlett O’Hara and Dawn as Mammy, accent more Belfast than Southern Belle.

Funny

GIRLS Recent research claimed that men are funnier than women. We disagree! Here are some of our favourite comic women

Meera Syal, 58

She says ‘making people laugh is addictive’ so shows such as Goodness Gracious Me, Citizen Khan and The Kumars At No 42 must have fed her habit. ✱ MEMORABLE MOMENT The Goodness Gracious Me Special where drunk locals in India go out for ‘an English’ and order 12 bread rolls and 24 plates of chips.

Diane Morgan, 44

As Philomena in Cunk on Britain, she made the observation, ‘Charles Darwin was one of the most famous men of his age. Like Paddy McGuinness is now.’

Liz in Motherland is the mum at the school gates you need to be friends with. ✱ MEMORABLE LINE Liz in Motherland observes, ‘You wait till he gets on Tinder; see how much of a co-parent he is then.’

Miranda Hart, 46 Her semi-autobiographical Miranda is comedy gold.

She connects with viewers so directly, we feel we’re on the sofa with her, sharing her triumphs and frequent banana skin slip-ups. ✱ MEMORABLE MOMENT Tells her mother (Patricia ‘such fun’ Hodge) at a funeral that she wishes the ground could swallow her up – then falls into a grave.

inspiring women

Penelope Keith, 79

Affecting a snooty air with a flirty edge, she was Audrey Fforbes-Hamilton in To The Manor Born, but it’s as disapproving neighbour Margo in The Good Life she is best loved. ✱ MEMORABLE MOMENT Donning waterproofs and falling in the Goods’ muddy garden.

Phoebe WallerBridge, 34

Her creations Fleabag and Killing Eve are named among the greatest TV series of the 21st century, winning Phoebe BAFTAs, Emmys and a scriptwriting gig on 2020’s latest Bond. ✱ MEMORABLE LINE Fleabag stands up and opens up at a Quaker meeting: ’I sometimes worry that I wouldn’t be such a feminist if I had bigger tits.’

Dame June Whitfield (1925-2018) After a career in Carry On films and classic sitcom Terry and June, a new generation fell for June as Eddie’s mother in Absolutely Fabulous. ✱ MEMORABLE LINE Eddie (Jennifer Saunders) wails, ‘Inside me there’s a thin person screaming to get out.’ ‘Just the one, dear?’ replies June.

Victoria Wood (1953-2016)

In a long and much-decorated TV career, she created classics such as Dinnerladies and Acorn Antiques. Her bittersweet observations on life won hearts, which broke when she died. ✱ MEMORABLE MOMENT The song Let’s Do It about a wife’s attempts to seduce her hubby: ‘Not weakly, not meekly, beat me on the bottom with a Woman’s Weekly.’

Jo Brand, 62

Another hardworking, multitasking actor, writer, presenter and stand-up, known for droll self-deprecation. ✱ MEMORABLE LINE ‘If we’re not supposed to eat animals, how come they’re made out of meat?’ >> woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 29

Patricia Routledge, 90

Inseparable from Hyacinth Bucket (pronounced ‘Bouquet, dear’), the social-climbing, double-entendre queen of Keeping up Appearances who had us hooting in the 1990s. ✱ MEMORABLE LINE ‘How fares the church worldwide, vicar? What is the missionary position in China?’

Sharon Horgan, 49

Alison Steadman, 73

Shappi Khorsandi, 46 Dame Julie Walters, 69

From the moment we saw her as Rita in Educating Rita, we fell for her whip-sharp delivery.

She starred in Wood and Walters with pal Victoria Wood, Dinnerladies and countless big-screen blockbusters. ✱ MEMORABLE MOMENT Belting out Take a Chance on Me as she sashayed across tables in pursuit of Bill Anderson in Mamma Mia!.

In Abigail’s Party, in 1977, we met Alison as Beverly, the terrifying hostess dancing to Demis Roussos in a floaty dress.

In Essex, 30 years later, Gavin’s mum Pamela opened her front door and invited us in. ✱ MEMORABLE LINE On a diet, Pam tells her family, ‘You are gonna watch me starve. Potentially to death.’

Whether she’s live, on radio or on TV, her spiky humour is a hit.

From Iran, she enjoys playing with curiosity about her roots. ✱ MEMORABLE LINE A man said he’d love to know more about her culture. ‘I’m from Ealing,’ she told him.

‘Memorise the Central Line.’

WORDS: ZOE WEST AND CHRISTABEL SMITH. PHOTOS: ALAMY, CAMERA PRESS/CHRIS FLOYD, CORBIS VIA GETTY IMAGES, EMPICS ENTERTAINMENT, FILMMAGIC, GETTY IMAGES, JEFF MOORE/PA IMAGES, PA ARCHIVE/PA IMAGES, SOPA IMAGES/ LIGHTROCKET VIA GETTY IMAGES, SIPA USA/PA IMAGES, SOPA, WIREIMAGE

Sharon co-wrote and starred in Pulling and Catastrophe, and is one of the geniuses behind BBC’s Motherland.

With her gentle Irish lilt, she nails the dilemmas facing modern women. ✱ MEMORABLE LINE Sharon telling partner Rob: ‘If normal courtship is a dance, ours is like a heart attack or seizure.’

Prunella Scales, 87

Prunella made Sybil in Fawlty Towers immortal. She filed her nails as she gossiped on the phone (‘oh, I know, I know…’) and issued devastating put-downs to husband Basil. ✱ MEMORABLE INSULT TO BASIL You ‘ageing, brilliantined stick insect.’

FUNNY HA HA

✱ Who’s your favourite female comedian or character? Top comedy moment? Share by email, on Facebook or write to us.

All details on page 5.

‘TRUE FEMALE COMEDY IS ALL ABOUT BEING AUTHENTIC’

Comedian Helen Lederer on why women are funny, actually I’m wondering when we all got the memo that said women aren’t funny? If so, I don’t think I received it – which is lucky, or I might have felt self-conscious about ‘being myself’ in public. And apart from a few gigs (OK, more than a few) where my comic delivery came second to having to get off stage as quickly as possible, if only to dodge a few missiles, true female comedy is all about being authentic. It’s about the hysteria of the moment and the ridiculous universality of trying to achieve the same goals and failing. Personally, I love failure. Think about the person who walks along the street, falls over and then… wait for it… pretends he hasn’t. It’s genuinely hilarious! And being genuine gives us the best chance of eliciting a laugh – which is, after all, the whole idea.

The moment we start changing our material to suit some unfunny edict from

a male TV commissioner, our humour is diluted. But then, I’ve been lucky. I was fat, wheezy and sported a large hairband from a very early age. So I got used to finding things comical – if only to get in first before someone else poked fun at me.

Most people are amusing given half the chance. I remember seeing Joyce Grenfell and loving her confidence and irony. Later I was blown away by the powerful nuance in the late Victoria Wood’s monologues.

So it wasn’t a surprise that I began doing stand-up comedy in the 1980s – even though there were only three women doing the circuit at the time. Fortunately, the other two had the same name, which made it less of a stretch for the male compere who had to introduce us.

Now, by setting up the Comedy Women In Print Prize for women writers (comedywomeninprint.co.uk), I hope to celebrate more witty women.

Oh, and my other ambition is to ban the word ‘quirky’ as a description of a witty women writer. We’re almost there.

Catherine Tate, 51

She’s thrilled when people say her Catherine Tate Show comic creations remind them of someone they know. Who can forget surly schoolgirl Lauren asking ‘Am I bovvered?’ ✱ MEMORABLE LINE Nan describing her latest baby grandchild, ‘Ain’t it ugly? It frightened the life out of me.

It’s like a big, hairy elf looking up at yer.’

woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 31

in our experience

We won’t let anything

HOLD US BACK These three women are embracing their body differences, and refusing to let anything change the way they live their lives

‘I’VE NEVER HIDDEN MY SCAR’

A CURVATURE OF HESTER’S SPINE LED TO MAJOR SURGERY DURING HER CHILDHOOD Hester Grainger, 42, lives in Reading with her husband Kelly, 44, and their children India, 10, and Hudson, eight.

Together with Kelly, she runs a business consultancy (hudia.co.uk).

I was 11 when the curve on my spine was spotted during a hospital X-ray for something unrelated. It was curved and twisted into an ‘S’ shape – a condition called scoliosis. It hadn’t caused me any pain or difficulties. No one could tell us what had caused it.

I was referred to an orthopaedic specialist and underwent an operation. Surgeons inserted a metal rod into my back, along my spine. The rod is then attached to a wire – think of it like those used to stop a plant falling over – which wraps around my spine.

I remember being terrified and telling my mum, Lorna, that I didn’t want to go through with it. But there wasn’t really a choice, as without surgery I’d have ended up in a wheelchair.

After the operation, I was in hospital for a month. For the next six months I had to wear a back brace. When I returned to school it took me a long time to rebuild my confidence. But otherwise, I was a normal pupil taking part in PE

lessons and playing in the playground.

The operation left me with a scar from my neck to the base of my spine. But I’ve always been proud of it and I never let it stop me wearing boob tubes, which were fashionable when I was a teenager.

Later, at university I partied happily in backless tops, although a couple of times some insensitive guys told me my back looked hideous. No matter how much I told myself I didn’t care what people thought of my scar, that still hurt.

Today, as well as my scar, I still have a hump on my back, as it wasn’t possible to totally straighten my spine. One hip is higher than the other and my shoulders are different heights.

But this is me. My mum was nothing but positive while I was growing up and that definitely rubbed off on me. She signed me up for tennis and squash lessons, determined that my scoliosis wouldn’t stop me doing anything.

I’ve continued to live my life with that attitude. I’m married with two wonderful children. Just as Princess Eugenie refused to hide the scar from her scoliosis surgery on her wedding day, I did the same,

‘Some insensitive guys told me my back looked hideous – but this is me and I’m proud’

opting for a low-backed wedding dress.

I was determined to stay true to myself.

I always tell my children that whatever happens to you makes you stronger, and I like to think I’m an example of this.

Most of the time I don’t even think about my scoliosis. It’s just part of who I am. Sometimes my shoulders and back become achy and I struggle to sit for long periods on certain chairs, like at the cinema. But considering what I went through, it’s amazing that’s all I have to endure. So I feel blessed. >> woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 33

‘I SEE MY BIRTHMARK AS A POSITIVE ATTRIBUTE’ Paulette Burgess, 61, is a retired teacher. She lives in Cornwall with her husband, Mike, 73.

Growing up, my parents, particularly my father Bernard, always made me feel unique and that I mattered in this world.

He encouraged me to hold my head up high and instilled in me a belief that I could do anything I set my mind to.

It’s thanks to him that I’m the positive, confident person I am today and that I’ve never allowed my port wine stain birthmark to stop me doing anything.

My birthmark runs on the left side of my neck, reaching up slightly onto the bottom of my face. I’ve always tried to view it as a positive attribute, which is as much a characteristic of who I am as my eye colour or hair type.

I’ve always encouraged anyone to ask questions about my birthmark, and I truly believe that being open about it has helped me to be confident in my own skin.

Thankfully, I’ve never experienced any nasty comments from others.

That’s not to say people haven’t been curious, particularly the children I used to teach. But I used it as a way to help them to understand and embrace difference.

They used to ask me, ‘Have you been burnt?’

They were inquisitive, which is understandable, because that’s how children learn. If a child ever asked a question, I’d explain what my birthmark is and show them fully. I’d explain that people are all different, some of us are tall, some are small – and it became a topic of conversation where I could encourage them to embrace how different and diverse we all are.

I’ve never tried to hide my birthmark: it is part of who I am. It’s this positive attitude that has led me to become a campaigner

‘Differences are nothing to be ashamed of, nor for Changing should they be Faces, the UK’s swept under the leading charity for everyone who carpet’ has a mark, scar or

34 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

condition that makes them look different. We’re committed to speaking out about living life with a visible difference.

It’s fantastic to feel that I can make a difference to someone who may be struggling with everyday life because of their visible difference, and give them that bit of confidence they may need.

We’re getting the message out there that we don’t all fit into square boxes and

we should embrace those differences.

They’re nothing to be ashamed of, nor should they be swept under the carpet.

I also do voluntary work for Breast Cancer Now and Macmillan Cancer Support. In 2019, I was thrilled to be chosen as a finalist in Cornwall Council’s ‘60 over 60’ campaign, in recognition of my voluntary work.

Although my father sadly died six years ago, I can still hear his voice encouraging me. He’s with me now more than ever and I know he’s incredibly proud of me. ✱ Find support at changingfaces.org.uk, or call 0300 012 0275 (10am-4pm, Monday to Friday)

WORDS: ALICE GREBOT. PHOTOS: ANGELA SPAIN. STYLING: SHARNA VALENTINE. HAIR & MAKE-UP: LIZ KITCHINER, KATE HUGHES. HESTER: DRESS, PHASE EIGHT; SHOES, NEXT. PAULETTE: TOP, MONSOON; TROUSERS, NEW LOOK; NECKLACE, ACCESSORIZE; EARRINGS, SWAROVSKI; SHOES, VAN DAL. EMMA: TOP, FINERY; TROUSERS, NEXT; SHOES, NEW LOOK

PAULETTE HAS ALWAYS ENCOURAGED QUESTIONS ABOUT HER PORT WINE STAIN BIRTHMARK

in our experience

‘I DON’T LIKE PEOPLE TELLING ME I CAN’T DO SOMETHING’

EMMA HAS CEREBRAL PALSY AND, THOUGH LIFE CAN BE CHALLENGING, SHE STAYS FIT AND UPBEAT Emma Livingstone, 43, a speech and language therapist, lives in London with her husband Derek, 42, and children Natan, 11, Libby, nine, and Callum, five.

I was born with cerebral palsy (CP), a neuro-developmental disability that affects movement and co-ordination. It was diagnosed when I was around two

years old, as I hadn’t begun walking yet.

Throughout childhood, physiotherapy helped with the back pain and aches, and I had surgery on my feet when I was 16 because the way I walked was putting pressure on my joints.

I walked slower than other kids, and having difficulties with

balance meant I fell over more frequently.

At school, I was treated with kid gloves by my teachers, who adopted a ‘poor Emma’ attitude. But at home, things were very different. My disability didn’t really impact on us as a family. The attitude was very much that my CP wouldn’t be a barrier to me living a full and active life. If I fell over, they’d pick me up and we’d carry on.

I think my positive attitude has come from those early experiences. I don’t like people telling me I can’t do something.

Living with a disability, you develop a determination to prove everyone wrong.

I accepted early on that some things aren’t as easy for me, but that’s OK. I may have to go more slowly than others, but I’d always get there in the end.

So, I completed school, learnt to drive, went to university, got married and became a mother. I didn’t even use crutches until my late 20s because I knew I could do most things and cope.

Because CP has a degenerative impact, it can cause bone and joint problems. I’ve had several surgeries in the past few years, including reconstruction surgery and a hip replacement.

Another long-term impact of living with CP is a decline in our mobility as we get older. I use crutches when I’m out and about. Though it took a long time, I’ve now accepted that if I want to have days out with the children it’s OK to use a wheelchair to get around, otherwise I’ll end up too exhausted.

I have a sheer determination to stay active for the children. Research shows that staying fit and healthy can help to slow down CP degenerative changes.

So, as well as having physiotherapy, I go swimming and have a personal trainer.

I don’t see myself as an inspiring person; I just see myself as living the life I want to be able to live. I’m not going to let the fact I have a disability stop me. ✱ Emma founded the charity Adult Cerebral Palsy Hub (adultcphub.org) to help increase understanding of CP as a disability affecting adults, and to campaign for better support and services

‘My disability didn’t really impact on us as a family – if I fell over, they’d pick me up and carry on’

woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 35

WHAT IÕVE LEARNT

‘Good friendships can feed your soul’ BBC Radio 2 host and TV presenter Sara Cox, 45, shares her wisdom

WORDS: SELINA MAYCOCK. PHOTO: CAMERA PRESS/ANDREW CROWLEY/TE. SARA COX IS A BRAND AMBASSADOR FOR 1-DAY ACUVUE MOIST MULTIFOCAL CONTACT LENSES, WHICH ARE DESIGNED TO ENABLE YOU TO SEE NEAR, FAR AND IN BETWEEN THROUGHOUT THE DAY; ACUVUE.CO.UK

A sensible switch happens as you grow up. I like my exercise and take my health seriously, but now I care less if something wobbles. It’s more important that my legs, heart and lungs work, that I’m fit and strong.

I’m very health aware. I try to be aware of any changes in my body.

I’m always rocking up at my doctors trying to give samples of myself.

‘I’m not sure about this, do you need a sample?’ but she says, ‘No you’re all right love, thank you.’

Work hard and cling on to your career. With The Sara Cox Show, producers have let me do on the telly what I do on the radio, and being allowed to be yourself is the key to success. If you work hard and if you cling on to your career for long enough, you’ll do all right.

Embrace the day and live in the moment. I feel fitter and healthier than I’ve ever felt before. Sleep is crucial for me so I try to get as much as I can. I always try to embrace the day rather than wishing my life away. I just want to be strong and fit so I can stick around for my kids.

And if I start to look really ropey, I’ll just grow a fringe over my face, although it’s already quite long!

Good friendships can feed your soul. I’m looking at my lovely picture of the ‘Five Go French!’

It may sound rather Enid Blyton, but every year my four really good girlfriends and I get together for a break in the south of France where we have lashings of rosé wine, not lemonade!

Your duty as a parent is constantly shifting. I’m just muddling through.

The kids are now nine, 11 and 15 so it’s much easier – I wasn’t a natural at looking after them. I still get that sinking feeling when people text in to my radio show saying they’re on their way back from swimming lessons. They used to be my worst moments, sat in a manky changing room trying not to get wet while dressing your kids with one arm through the door.

And I always left those blue plastic bags over my trainers for hours afterwards!

There are moments when they think what I do is cool – we go to Camp Bestival every year. I host an 80s DJ set and people go wild – this year the kids came on the side of the stage and I saw flashes of admiration. But I’m also not coming home with Rita Ora on one arm and Nick Grimshaw on the other for a party.

An expensive handbag = 42 pairs of school shoes. We didn’t have much money when we were growing up, so I’m pretty sensible now. In my 20s, when I earned a bit of cash, I didn’t save any.

So once I’d paid my tax bill I frittered the rest away socialising and on a hideous Dolce & Gabbana zebra print mac that was as disgusting as it sounds!

I nipped round town in my sporty Audi TT with my peroxide locks flowing behind me and I thought I was the bee’s knees! I may have looked like an idiot in retrospect, but I did enjoy myself. After making the most of my 20s I now see everything differently – a designer handbag is the equivalent of 42 pairs of school shoes. I’ll treat myself to the odd thing, but I spend most of my money on food and experiences such as holidays and days out.

Start to enjoy eating well. Back in the 80s, I loved things like Findus Crispy Pancakes, but my mum was terribly cruel and didn’t let me eat them.

Instead she cooked low-fat meals for us, which in hindsight made her a really good parent. Even back in my ‘wild party days’ I’ve always eaten well. Nowadays I actually enjoy it, whereas before I always had to drag myself to the gym.

There’s a solution for everything. After I turned 40 I was looking at the ingredients on a jar of spice and I realised I couldn’t read the instructions. Not great as my kids might have ended up with something very fiery for dinner one night! I’d also noticed I had to move things further away to see them, so I got my eyes checked at the opticians, and was diagnosed with an eye condition called presbyopia. I was prescribed new Acuvue Moist Multifocal contact lenses, which have certainly changed my view on life for the better! woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 37

THE GREAT MIDLIFE SURVEY We wanted to find out what makes women our age tick, so we conducted The Ultimate Midlife survey. Stand by for some secrets on money, sex – and housework

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ex, love, money, friendships, career, kids and confidence – we asked about them all and you answered. Thank you to all of you who took the time to fill out our survey. You told us about your retirement plans (mega) and your relationships (solid). You shared your concerns, from helping out your kids, to the impact of climate change on your grandchildren. And you told us the secrets of your finances and your sex life. Some things didn’t surprise us – we know you’re smart, confident and forward thinking. Some things did – 40% of you actually enjoy housework, for instance. Read on to find out what midlife women like you are really thinking, and let us know if you agree with the findings!

Self-care and confidence You are women in control of your wellbeing – and it’s showing on the inside and out.

More than two-thirds of you have cut back or given up alcohol to improve your health, more than half of you exercise at least three times a week, and around the same number have dieted in the past year. And you’re feeling good about it!

While you don’t slavishly follow fashion trends (46% of you do, 54% don’t), you say you feel confident you’ve found your look.

KEY STATS

56

%

of you say your sex life gets better over 40

✱ 54% exercise at least three times a week ✱ 61% are confident you’ve found your look ✱ 46% follow fashion trends

63 HAVE CUT

BACK ON ALCOHOL TO IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH

Oh wowsers, you gorgeous, sexy women! More than half of you say that sex gets better over 40, and almost 70% of you agree that you’re more sexually confident now than you were in your twenties. It’s not all sass and self-assurance between the sheets, however. While 35% of you say you’d feel confident about going to bed with a younger man, 65% said not.

Maybe it’s time to bring that can-do spirit you’re saving for retirement into the bedroom…

KEY STATS

✱ 28% say you’re more sexually adventurous than your partner ✱ 35% say you’d feel confident going to bed with a younger man

68

say you’re more sexually confident now than in your 20s

58 HAVE

%

Sex

%

%

DIETED IN THE PAST YEAR

all about you

Friendships Where would we be without our friends? An incredible 87% of you said spending time with your besties is really important to you, and more than half of you agreed you can tell your friends things you can’t share with your partner or family. As it seems that many of our connections happen on Facebook, instead of actually face-to-face, we

had to ask if you felt social media has made our friendships stronger. The overwhelming answer – 71% – was ‘no’.

Time to get another girls’ night out in the diary?

KEY STATS

✱ 87% say spending time with friends is really important to you ✱ 71% say social media has not made your friendships stronger >>

56

% TELL YOUR FRIENDS THINGS YOU CAN’T TELL YOUR FAMILY woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 39

Relationship For those of you in a relationship, it seems life is pretty good. Only 12% say your relationship struggled when your children left home. What’s more, 79% say you’ve never had an affair – although 21% have, and almost the same amount know or suspect that your partner has been unfaithful. What comes across clearly is that you’re your own woman.

More than half of you agree that you don’t need a partner to feel fulfilled or happy – but more than two-thirds of you say your partner is your best friend (awww).

KEY STATS

✱ 57% say you don’t need a partner to feel fulfilled ✱ 20% suspect or know your partner has had an affair

21 64

% SAY YOU HAVE HAD AN AFFAIR % SAY YOUR PARTNER IS YOUR BEST FRIEND

Money Maybe it’s that you had time off to raise a family or to care for a relative, or perhaps the gender pay gap is still very much apparent in your workplace, but most of you living with a partner still earn less than they do – only 19% of you said you earn more than your partner; 57% said you earn less; and 24% said the question wasn’t applicable to them.

Even so, two-thirds of you say you’re more financially independent than you’ve ever been – almost 12% of you even have savings hidden away in case you get a divorce. More than half

%

45

help out your adult children financially

of you said money stress does not cause arguments in your relationship, although with 45% saying they do, it’s clear that finances do cause strain in many households. Could you be arguing about helping out your adult children? ‘The bank of mum and dad’ is open for 45% of you, who are helping out with expenses such as rent, a house deposit, the car and bills.

KEY STATS

✱ 57% say your partner earns more than you ✱ 67% are more financially independent than you’ve ever been

12

%

have hidden savings in case you get a divorce

Work and home life It appears now’s your time to enjoy the good life, which is why your career isn’t the focus it might once have been. 44% of you who answered the survey aren’t currently working. Of those that are, 36% say your work makes you feel valued and fulfilled, although 28% have experienced ageism in your job. And 21% are dreaming of starting your own businesses, powering-up your entrepreneurial spirit. At home, three-quarters of you do more domestic chores than your partner. We asked if you like cleaning, just in case you found mopping and dusting therapeutic.

Er, no… 61% of you don’t enjoy housework – but that still leaves 39% that do!

KEY STATS

✱ 28% have experienced ageism at work ✱ 39% actually enjoy housework!

21 WOULD LIKE %

TO START YOUR OWN BUSINESS %

77 DO MORE

DOMESTIC CHORES THAN YOUR PARTNER

62

%

agree climate changes make you despair for your children and grandchildren’s future

WORDS: ANDREA CHILDS. PHOTOS: AFP/GETTY IMAGES, ALAMY, DAVE BENETT/GETTY IMAGES, GETTY IMAGES FOR FARFETCH, GETTY IMAGES/HERO IMAGES, GETTY IMAGES/ISTOCKPHOTO, MIKE MARSLAND/WIREIMAGE

The environment With teenage eco-activist Greta Thunberg making your list of inspirational women (see box, right), it’s no surprise the environment is a key concern for many of you. More than 60% of you agreed that ‘climate change makes me despair for my children and grandchildren’s future.’ And you’re taking steps to make a difference.

70% of you said you’re changing the way you shop to make better choices for the planet and our environment.

But you probably won’t be trading in your petrol car for a more eco-friendly model – only 27% of you said you’re considering buying/already own an electric car, while 73% said it’s not on your wish list.

KEY STATS

✱ 70% of you have changed the way you shop to make better choices for the planet ✱ 27% are considering buying/ already own an electric car

78

% WORRY ABOUT DEVELOPING DEMENTIA living with you). Are you going to let Hopes and fears this hold you back? No way! 93% of You are feeling good and looking a-ma-zing (see Self-image, on previous page) but there are understandable fears about what’s ahead. Threequarters of you worry about developing dementia, and 70% want to be able to leave your children financially secure (especially, we imagine, the 18% who still have adult children

you want to enjoy an adventurous retirement, with lots of travel on your bucket list. Go for it…

KEY STATS

✱ 93% want an adventurous retirement life ✱ 70% want to leave your children financially secure

all about you

INSPIRATIONAL WOMEN

We gave you a list of incredible role models and asked who inspires you the most. Here’s the rundown…

1 THE QUEEN With 67 years on the throne, it’s no wonder her Majesty reigns supreme for her dedication.

2 JUDI DENCH Dame Judi made her professional debut in 1957 with the Old Vic and she’s showing no signs of stopping.

3 HELEN MIRREN Stately, sexy and talented, actor Dame Helen is an icon of living and ageing well.

4 JK ROWLING The Harry Potter author has become a champion of children’s wellbeing with her Lumos charity.

5 AMAL CLOONEY One half of Hollywood’s hottest couple, barrister Amal earns respect for her legal work.

6 GRETA THUNBERG The teenage environmentalist has inspired people to take a stand against climate change.

7 NADIYA HUSSAIN With her openness about anxiety, the Bake Off winner is inspiring others with mental health issues. woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 41

THE BEST THINGS IN LIFE

are free

There’s so much joy and happiness that money can’t buy, say author Victoria Hislop, hillwalker Sarah Jane Douglas and forager Christine Iverson

VICTORIA HISLOP

SUNSHINE AND THE SEA ARE THE GREATEST GIFTS OF NATURE It took me half a lifetime to understand that the best things in life are not the things that you pay for. When I was a teenager, all I wanted was to spend money I didn’t have: on records, clothes and going to concerts.

As a student, the trend continued and the grant never seemed to stretch far 42 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

enough: tickets for an average Oxford ball were 60 guineas (nearly £200 in today’s money) and we were always going for meals in formal dress – all the while not earning a penny.

Then there was the post-university period, with high rents, car loans and commuting, then mortgages on flats and holidays that seemed essential to compensate for the long hours I was

working. As my overdraft mounted, I cried myself to sleep with the anxiety of it all.

When I wanted money more, I had less and only as I have got older have I appreciated that the best things are free. I wish I had known that then.

For me, sunshine and the sea are the greatest gifts of nature. They are among the reasons I spend so much time in Greece. The feeling of the sun on my skin

simple pleasures

SARAH JANE DOUGLAS

HILLWALKING REMINDS ME THE WORLD IS A BEAUTIFUL PLACE The sun and sea improve Victoria’s wellbeing (even gentle winter sun) creates a profound sense of relaxation unlike anything else. Lying down, I close my eyes and listen to the rhythm of the sea.

It’s more magical than Mozart. This, followed by a swim, leaves me with an almost inexplicable sense of wellbeing.

Friendship and family are just about the most important resource for happiness there is and nowadays we can sustain our friendships even from the other side of the world, as Wi-Fi is cheaper than a stamp.

Last night, I spent the evening with a newish girlfriend. Over wine and spag bol, we talked until our jaws ached. While cherishing old friendships, I am open to new ones, which can refresh our lives, introducing new ideas and activities into it.

My cat Colin has been a great joy in our family – in fact there is only one thing that all four of us agree on: Colin is a legend. In

‘My heartbeat almost slows to a halt with the relaxation of it all’ terms of happiness, he gives much more than he takes, and the sound of him purring as he curls up on my lap is the sweetest noise. I think my heartbeat almost slows to a halt with the relaxation of it all.

Interaction with my children is one of the best things in life, and given that the days when they often needed money are long gone, it is free.

My daughter gave me a fantastic gift last year. We got matching tattoos – a tiny hexagon (to remind us of a beehive).

Now, when I glance at it on my wrist many times during the day, it makes me smile because she might be looking at hers too. ✱ Victoria Hislop’s latest novel, Those Who Are Loved (Headline Review), is out now

Life is a journey of peaks and troughs – peaks are easy, it’s the troughs that are hard to navigate. It was love for my two sons that pulled me back from the edge of depression. I revelled in unbridled joy as they chased each other round our sofa, their carefree laughter so infectious I’d find myself laughing too. Small bodies launching themselves at me for cuddles. These boys were my purpose in life.

There was something else that would eventually see me through too – I started spending more time in nature, hillwalking.

Fresh air and exercise helped alleviate depression, stress and anxiety. A hard slog up over heathers and crags to reach rugged peaks would be rewarded with a rush of endorphins. A natural high. All trace of internal conflict erased. There, immersed in the beauty of nature, I felt grateful to be healthy enough to appreciate this wonder – and all for free!

I finally felt life was back on track when, in February 2017, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. After a year of gruelling treatments, my eldest son Marcus and I walked from Poolewe in Wester Ross to summit camp on A’Mhaighdean.

It entails a long hike into isolated, big mountain country. It was only when

Marcus announced he felt ‘spent’ under the weight of our heavy packs that I suddenly became aware of how fatigued my own legs were. I’d managed to forget I’d had cancer and that my body was still trying to recover.

I marvelled at the magical power of nature – of how being in these wild places cancelled out all of life’s doom.

At the summit we pitched our tents and, as the sun dipped below the horizon in a haze of wondrous, warm colours, Marcus and I hugged. My heart filled with hope and happiness. Life is about balance; without the rough there can be no smooth. When problems begin to weigh, hillwalking and the views it offers remind me that the world is a beautiful place. ✱ Just Another Mountain (Elliott & Thompson) by Sarah Jane Douglas is out now >>

‘Life is about balance; without the rough there can be no smooth’

Sarah Jane’s sons Marcus (left) and Leon

simple pleasures

CHRISTINE IVERSON

WHEN I’M FORAGING, I FEEL CALM AND GROUNDED a pharmaceutical company in sight.

Keen to learn all I could, I began writing a monthly article for my local parish magazine about the folklore and superstitions attached to each plant, as well as a seasonal recipe or two. This was followed by the publication of my first book in October 2019, The Hedgerow Apothecary, giving me the chance to reach a much wider audience.

Who knew that the abrasive qualities of horsetail made it perfect for scrubbing pans and wooden spoons?

My lovely running companions Sally and Janet are quite used to having to stop (not that they mind) while I tell them that blackberries must never be picked after Michaelmas Day or that nettles were important to our ancestors as a source of vitamins and iron, and nettle juice can cure baldness.

I love to share my knowledge with local children, and I host foraging and folklore workshops. When a friend asked me to give a talk to her Women’s Institute, I learnt that during World War One, the

‘My senses are heightened to the fragrance of the bluebells in May, the gentle rustle of birds in the undergrowth’

44 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

Christine hosts foraging and folklore workshops WI was tasked with sending Scouts and Brownies out to pick rosehips to be made into vitamin C-rich rosehip syrup for babies.

When I’m in the woods or foraging an ancient hedgerow, I feel calm and grounded. There is a special quiet and an amazing sense of wellbeing that comes from being in nature. My senses are heightened to the fragrance of the bluebells in May, the gentle rustle of birds in the undergrowth and the feeling of being completely in tune with the seasons as they change. ✱ Christine Iverson’s book, The Hedgerow Apothecary (Summersdale), is out now

PHOTOS: ALAMY, GETTY IMAGES

We settled in a small Sussex village in 2001 after many years of moving around with the RAF and I began to discover the abundance of nature on my doorstep.

Hedgerows and trees were bursting with free fruit, nuts and berries, and I was excited to find out what I could do with them. I bought a couple of field guides, including Richard Mabey’s wonderful Food for Free, and I was hooked.

The sense of excitement at making a new discovery became infectious and soon the whole family became involved. Autumn is by far my favourite season, when the hedgerows are full of berries and hips and haws. But there is something to discover all year round if you look closely enough.

Historically every village would have a wise woman or a cunning man who could treat many ailments with plants, and lift hexes and curses in return for some eggs or meat, all without

reader offer

FREE TICKETS to exclusive screenings of MILITARY WIVES

Enjoy a free preview* to what promises to be the feel-good film of the year!

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oin us at one of our exclusive screenings of Military Wives in February, starring BAFTA Winners Kristin Scott Thomas (Darkest Hour) and Sharon Horgan (for writing TV’s Catastrophe), and directed by Oscar Nominee Peter Cattaneo (The Full Monty). It’s inspired by the amazing true story of the Military Wives Choirs.

The life of a military wife can be thankless. Separated from loved ones,

their quiet bravery and sacrifice goes unnoticed while they live with the dread of a fateful knock on the door.

But Kate (Kristin Scott Thomas), the perfect officer’s wife, bears it all with grace and stoicism. She finds freedom in song; and persuades a disparate group of women on the base to form the Military Wives Choir. Initially sceptical and embarrassed by such an amateur bunch, newcomer Lisa (Sharon Horgan), a rebel and rocker, is transformed by the choir’s friendship, humour and courage.

Finding their voice together, Kate, Lisa and the choir put aside their own personal differences and, by belting out pop hits and rock anthems, this extraordinary group of women sing their hearts out, bringing joy, hope and strength to the world! ✱ Military Wives will be released in cinemas on 6 March.

HOW TO CLAIM

Screenings will be nationwide the week commencing 24 February.

To see cinema locations and claim your tickets, go to seeitfirst.com and enter the code MW1289.

TERMS & CONDITIONS *Up to two tickets allowed per person and per family name. Guests must be 18 or over to attend. Tickets are subject to availability and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis via seeitfirst.com. You must print out your tickets. No photocopies will be accepted. The tickets are not for resale. No cash alternative. No late admittance. The cinema reserves the right to refuse admission. Find full terms and conditions at seeitfirst.com

ADOPTIVE FAMILY Susanna’s parents, Alex and Thelma

EARLY DAYS Susanna on holiday with mum Thelma

My two FAMILIES

She always knew she was adopted, but the urge to find her birth family held some shocking surprises for Susanna Walker Like every other adopted person, I have always struggled with my identity, wondering whether I was a product of nature or nurture? Would I have been a completely different person had I been raised by my birth parents? I loved my adoptive parents dearly, but was nothing like them.

As a child I’d happily absorbed the classic adoption story they told my brother and me – that we had been chosen from a room full of babies because we were special in some way. It was only later in life that I came to realise they were offered a baby girl, followed swiftly by a boy, with little choice involved.

I had an extremely secure, happy childhood. I was very close to my adopted brother, despite us having very different personalities. At times 46 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

it felt as if we were two little cuckoos in the nest, feeling loved but not quite sure of our place in the world.

For as long as I can remember, I was aware of fundamental differences between myself and my adoptive family.

I was artistic from an early age – something that was never understood or encouraged – and had to fight to be allowed to go to art college. My wild nature puzzled them.

For me, nature was a more dominant influence than nurture.

I couldn’t wait to leave home and become independent, but my brother remained with our parents for much longer and nursed them through serious illness. They have both now passed away, but I will be forever grateful to our mother for instilling

kindness in us, to our father for teaching us to fiercely protect your family. I regret hugely the hurt I caused them when I began the search for my birth parents, but felt it was my right to know more about my roots.

Approaching 30, and considering having my own child, my curiosity about my birth family turned into action.

In the pre-internet era it took me several years to trace my birth mother, spending hours searching through the record books at Somerset House in London. But eventually, aided by her unusual surname, I found her. Making contact through the intermediary offered by an adoption charity, we arranged to meet.

Her story was a familiar one: young girl falling in love, an abandonment, her only

‘I regret hugely the hurt I caused them when I began the search for my birth parents’

significant others real option to have the baby adopted.

Thrilled to hear from me, she explained that in those days women who gave up their babies for adoption were told they would never see that child again, and weren’t allowed to search themselves.

Meeting her felt like falling in love.

Although we weren’t particularly similar to look at, or even in personality, our shared sense of humour carried us through those difficult first few meetings.

Soon after that I became a single parent to my son, Alfie, and couldn’t help be aware of the contrast between her limited choices, and my ability to raise my child alone. Our relationship has become distant now, 20-odd years later, something that is apparently very common after reunions between adoptees and birth parents.

Back then, though, she told me enough details about my birth father for me to begin searching for him as well.

This proved more difficult as it became clear he had moved to the USA. However, in the process I managed to find his daughter, who was living near to me in London. She had lost touch with her father but informed me I had a wonderful uncle, an artist who had lived on the island of Ibiza since the age of 19, and offered to take me to visit him.

Meeting Gabriel it all fell into place – my artistic side, my roaming nature.

I felt an instant connection, the kind you

hope for when meeting your tribe, your flesh and blood, those you share a genetic bond with. He answered many of my questions about my birth family; told me of their mother, wild Irish Anna, who I apparently resembled in both looks and personality; but had also lost touch with his brother many years previously.

The contrast between my suburban upbringing and the bohemian birth family I’d discovered could not have been more striking.

And then, completely out of the blue, my birth father found me. After seeing something I’d posted on an adoption message board years before, he made contact.

We communicated for months via email and, thrilled by his stories of travelling the world in a campervan and cavorting around Soho with his friend, the poet Ted Hughes, I imagined we would form an instant bond. He was an articulate and interesting writer, and I was feeling starry-eyed about meeting him.

And so, aged 50, I met my father for the first time under a fig tree in San Miguel, Ibiza. We had arranged to meet at Gabriel’s house, considering it a chance for them to reconnect too. The fig tree had been growing in my uncle’s garden for over 30 years and had

assumed almost mythical status in my birth family’s history. Strewn with fairy lights, it offered a beautiful setting for such a momentous occasion. As my father walked down the dusty path towards me, however, a white-bearded figure, smartly dressed in a blazer and trilby, I felt a visceral dislike. I’d expected to be apprehensive about meeting him but was confused by this emotion.

And I continued to struggle over the next few days to find the connection with my father I’d been longing for, but sadly it never materialised.

He seemed to take no responsibility for his actions surrounding my birth, any remorse for his treatment of my mother, or interest in how I felt about being adopted. As he continued to show little emotional warmth towards me I felt sidelined and distressed, and decided not to meet him again.

I don’t regret meeting either of my birth parents and I feel a sense of acceptance now that my relationships with them just didn’t work out. I remain close to my uncle who has become a surrogate father to me.

My fascination with nature/nurture continues, happy in the knowledge that I am a fully rounded person, shaped by my genes and the family in which I was raised.

‘Meeting my uncle, it all fell into place – my artistic side, my roaming nature’

FINDING ROOTS Susanna’s uncle Gabriel, with gran Anna

BIRTH MOTHER Meeting her birth mum felt like falling in love

the honest truth

WHAT TO SAY

when your friend has

CANCER

Kate Henwood has secondary breast cancer. Here she tells her story and offers tips on supporting those with the illness

I

lived with cancer long before my own diagnosis. My mum had breast cancer when I was pregnant with my son Ollie. When Ollie was only 10 years old, my husband Bruce died of oesophageal cancer.

Two years later, I noticed a lump in my breast while in the shower. I was referred for a mammogram and scans, which led to 25 different – and very painful – biopsies from my left breast on the same day.

I’ve never cried so much in pain. I then asked to be treated at the Montefiore Hospital in Hove. I’d worked there and had friends among the staff, so I knew it would be a safe space for me where I could be vulnerable, without any pretence.

The diagnosis? There was a cancerous tumour in my breast, and it had already spread to my breastbone and spine.

48 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

My response was, ‘I’ve got this – what am I going to do about it?’

The immediate treatment was six cycles of chemotherapy, but I decided I’d use homeopathy, acupuncture and meditation too. By the end of the chemo, I had no eyebrows and no hair but at least I’d lost three stone – the best diet I’ve ever done.

The tumour had shrunk drastically, and a double mastectomy followed.

It felt liberating – I’d been carrying around this thing that was trying to kill me, but now I was saying goodbye to the tumour for good.

A few months after surgery came one of my biggest hurdles – daily radiotherapy for three weeks. Having the treatment every day made me acutely aware of having cancer, which had a huge psychological impact on me.

But a month later, I was in remission, and that Christmas I took Ollie to Disney World in Florida – a trip we’d always wanted to do. Nothing was going to stop us from having fun.

Today, although I remain well, I’ve accepted my cancer isn’t curable. As a natural micromanager, I’ve planned my own funeral.

But cancer is what I have, not who I am. Day-to-day, it takes up less than 5% of my thoughts.

I have a photography business and a home to run – and I’ve still got to cook the tea when my son comes home from college.

It’s my mission to show people that a cancer diagnosis may shorten your life, but it doesn’t have to stop you from having a life.

15 ways to help

When someone you love has been diagnosed with cancer, here are Kate’s tips on how best to help themÉ

1 2

Be there to hold a hand, go to an appointment, make a cuppa, cook dinner, go for a walk – normal stuff.

Ask what you can do to help, but don’t expect an answer.

Your friend will be overwhelmed with their diagnosis or treatment, so making decisions is difficult.

3

Keep offering help – one day your friend will let you. Offer things that you feel you can help with. If going to a hospital appointment isn’t for you, don’t offer it.

4

Make plans but incorporate a plan B. Sometimes your friend won’t feel up to it or won’t stay for long – one of the biggest side effects of any treatment is fatigue.

5

Don’t assume your friend can’t do whatever it is. Always ask. On this journey, your friend controls very little, so the few things they can control are very important.

6 7

WORDS: KATE HENWOOD. PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES/EYEEM

Your friend may have compromised immunity so stay away if you’ve got a cold or a bug.

FaceTime or phone for a chat instead.

Be mindful of posting stuff on Facebook. Not everyone tells people they are having treatment or wants their new appearance plastered across the internet.

8

Flowers are a lovely gift, but your friend may already have loads. Smellies are good or plan a trip, a meal out, or a girly night in when they are feeling better.

9

Be ready to listen. Your friend might want to talk about what’s happening to them. Ask questions.

WHAT TO SAY ‘I don’t know how to help but I want to.

Don’t be afraid to tell me when you need a lift, a school run, some shopping, a cuppa, or you want your stairs hoovering.’

‘I can’t begin to ‘I’m here, for the imagine how you good, the bad, feel or what you the ugly, all of it.’ are facing, but I am sending ‘It’s lovely you my love and positive thoughts.’ to see you.’

10 11 12

Check up on your friend’s partner. They’re often the caregivers and can get stressed out too – ask how they’re doing.

Check with your friend how much they have told their children. Ask, don’t assume.

It’s okay to get upset.

Often there’s an overwhelming feeling of gratitude that it’s not you, and then you feel guilty. My friends have cried with me and I’ve been able to comfort them.

13 14

Feel honoured if your friend cries in your presence – it means they feel safe to do so.

Be ready to talk about death.

Your friend may not have a great prognosis, but they still have a life to live. Make it quality. Do mad stuff. Talk about it, if they want to. Don’t make promises you can’t keep.

15

Be led by your friend.

Hold their hand and walk with them. You can’t do it for them, but you can do it with them.

…AND WHAT NOT TO SAY

‘How are you?’

‘Bald really suits you.

You have a good shaped head.’

‘I know how you feel.’

FIND OUT MORE

✱ For support and information, call Breast Cancer Now’s free Helpline on 0808 800 6000 ✱ Visit breastcancernow.org ✱ Search #notjustoneday ✱ Kate has self-published a book called What Doesn’t Kill You, Makes You Stronger ✱ Follow her @katecandothis woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 49

The reason we put

ANIMALS FIRST From neglected horses to factory-farmed turkeys, these women have dedicated their lives to caring for our furry and feathered friends

a life less ordinary

I’ll never tire of 3am wake-up calls if we can save a horse’s life Nicky Jarvis (left), 52, is the senior veterinary surgeon at Redwings Horse Sanctuary, a charity with five centres in the UK, which cares for 1,500 rescued horses, ponies, donkeys and mules.

When I was a child, my family used to take canal-boat holidays and a note in my father’s logbook is wonderfully telling of the life I was destined to lead: ‘Nicky spent the entire evening off the boat, looking at horses on the Fens.’

As an adult, when I was offered a permanent job as a vet at Redwings back in 1996, I couldn’t say yes fast enough. It was primarily because of the horses but also the human team. I’d done holiday cover there and realised it’s a special place where everyone works towards the same goal with passion and energy.

At Redwings, the horses don’t have specific owners but because everyone cares so much, they have hundreds of owners in every member of staff.

Our welfare team rescues horses, mules and donkeys who have been neglected, abandoned and mistreated. They arrive malnourished or with a condition that could have been prevented, and I can’t turn away from that. There’s no better feeling than when we bring back their sparkle.

I’m in charge of the clinical team caring for our 1,500 residents. We do vaccinations, dental work and sometimes perform surgery, but we also respond to emergencies and prepare horses for rehoming.

I have a soft spot for Iggy, a mildmannered eight-year-old cob with lovely whiskers, who arrived with severe liver disease. Liver problems are common in rescued horses, due to eating toxic plants or parasites, or they often have gastrointestinal problems as a result of neglect. We feared we’d lose him but

thankfully, he got better. He makes me smile because he has come so far and is a perfect example of how transformed a horse can be when treated right.

Our horses live in herds in fields unless they are unwell, in which case we bring them into our stables. It never gets easier to accept some horses won’t make it. Those are tough days.

It makes me proud to be 52 and still eager to learn. There are always new tests, new medicines, new ways to help the animals that are better than before. It costs around £10 million a year to look after all our equines and we encourage supporters to visit, adopt or sponsor them.

Recently, I was checking a horse who suffers from an irritable skin condition.

As I ran my hands over his mane and belly, he made a funny little ‘whicker’ sound. It’s the most beautiful, warm sound of pleasure. It’s in these moments I am reminded why I work with horses.

They are the reason I get up when it’s dark, cold and raining. I must have looked after over 10,000 equines and I still find horses as intelligent and incredible as I did when I was a child. I will never tire of 3am wake-up calls, even if there’s only a glimmer of hope we can save a horse’s life so it can live out its days happy, healthy and free in our fields.

To support Redwings, go to redwings.org.uk

‘There’s no better feeling than when we bring back their sparkle’

Our supporters restore my faith in humanity Wendy Valentine (above), 70, started the Hillside Animal Sanctuary in Norfolk in 1995 and campaigns for the humane treatment of animals. Both she and Josie (overleaf) are part of unboundproject.org, which celebrates women at the forefront of animal protection around the globe.

In 1995, quite by chance, I saw inside a huge poultry farm. The conditions were horrific, with poorly birds sitting next to decaying birds. The shock of what I saw drove me to start Hillside Animal Sanctuary, with the aim of campaigning for chickens, cows, pigs and sheep – animals that are routinely abused in the intensive factory farming industry.

My father had left me a legacy when he died, and I started with 20 acres of land but have leased and bought more when funds have allowed. Our rescued animals live on eight farm locations and graze on 2,000 acres across Norfolk.

The sanctuary is now home to 3,000 animals. There are horses, donkeys, ponies, cows, pigs, deer, dogs, ostriches, sheep, rabbits, chickens and ducks. I have a team of 130 people looking after the animals and I’m ready 24/7 in case >> woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 51

a life less ordinary

52 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

Playful monkeys stole my heart Josie Du Toit, 39, left the UK for South Africa to protect vervet monkeys and now lives in Tzaneen with her partner, Wouter, and Beagle Rocky.

I was always happy as long as I was around animals. I used to ‘rescue’ snails in the garden, before my mum told me they belonged where they were. When I was 16, I enrolled on an animal care course, then took courses in veterinary medicine, kennel craft and wildlife care.

My first job after graduating was as a veterinary technical advisor in Somerset.

Then in 2005, I took a sabbatical and volunteered at the Vervet Monkey Foundation in Tzaneen.

Vervet monkeys are considered by some to be vermin in South Africa.

Farmers shoot them, wrongly convinced that they destroy crops. Vervet monkeys actually eat the insects from over-ripe crops, so they do the farmers a favour. Despite this, thousands of monkeys are killed every year, leaving babies orphaned.

While volunteering, I lived in a tent with no electricity and limited water. It was the best month of my life and the playful monkeys stole my heart. An orphan called Apache had been found clinging to his mother in a dustbin. She’d been shot and he was crying for her. With our help, he was taken in by a ‘foster’ monkey

mother. I knew I’d found my purpose, so I gave in my notice, sold my house, then moved permanently to Tzaneen in 2006.

At first, I was volunteer co-ordinator but eventually I became the manager and co-director. I developed a new method for helping orphans learn to feed themselves so that we could introduce them to a troop from as young as three months.

We have 600 monkeys in our 25-hectare sanctuary and I’m up early to check on critical cases, feed orphans, organise medicine, train staff to recognise individual monkeys, work on creating our vervet forest and spread awareness about the plight of the vervet internationally.

We want to acquire a 500-hectare forest so we can protect more troops.

If monkeys thrive, so does everything else in a forest.

Monkeys eat vegetation and seeds, which pass through their digestive system, and new saplings pop up far from the mother plant. Monkeys swing through the trees, which shake the branches so pods scatter to the floor.

We’d like to build an education centre too. We work with farmers and I believe perceptions are changing. Every day I know I’m making a difference to an animal’s life and that, in turn, gives meaning to my life.

You can follow Josie’s work on: Instagram @vervet_forest or Facebook @vervetmonkeyfoundation

‘Visiting the sanctuary, I knew I’d found my purpose’

WORDS: KIM WILLIS. PHOTOS: HILLSIDE ANIMAL SANCTUARY, JO-ANNE MCARTHUR/UNBOUND PROJECT, REDWINGS HORSE SANCTUARY

of emergencies. If we can save an animal from suffering and slaughter, we will. At Hillside, animals are guaranteed safety, dignity, warmth, love and respect – something few experience before they arrive.

I’m in charge of raising the massive funds we need. We are funded entirely by donations and I am so proud of our supporters. After all the horrors I’ve seen, they restore my faith in humanity.

Supporters adopt and sponsor our animals, organise fundraising events and often remember us in their wills.

As well as caring for animals, I wanted to make the public aware of the suffering farmed animals endure on factory farms.

While we have some of the best laws in the world in the UK, they are not always upheld. Over the years, I have gone undercover to expose cruelty and rescue as many animals as I could.

In May 2005, along with another Hillside employee, I tried to rescue Boris the bull from a farmer who was keeping his cows, pigs and sheep in atrocious conditions. Boris was emaciated, stuck knee-deep in mud and excrement. We dug him out, gave him food and water, and alerted the RSPCA. But he had been through too much. He shed a tear as I held him in my arms. He died in a field of grass, where he belonged.

A year later, we went undercover to film the cruelty workers were inflicting on turkeys at a Bernard Matthews farm, whacking them with sticks as if playing baseball. Ten years later, in 2016, we placed hidden cameras in a non-stun halal slaughterhouse in Norfolk. Our undercover work led to convictions for those responsible.

It never gets easier to witness cruelty, but that’s what drives me forward.

We’re changing our eating habits and demanding better practices, which gives me hope. I wake up thinking about the animals and I go to bed thinking about them. I haven’t had a holiday in 20 years because I can’t leave the animals and there’s always too much to do.

Sometimes it can feel like I will never be able to do enough, but when I see a herd of horses or deer running together, free and wild, I know they are happy and living as nature intended.

Support Hillside Animal Sanctuary by visiting hillside.org.uk

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modern life

Are you

LIDL CLASS? Bagging a canny bargain has become the new middle-class obsession, says Fiona Gibson

L

ove your lipstick,’ a friend says. ‘Is it Charlotte Tilbury?’

Once upon a time I might have replied, ‘Erm, I’m not sure. It might be. It’s just something I had lying around in my bag.’ Unless you were 13, and trying it out ‘for fun’, it seemed slightly shameful to choose your make-up a couple of aisles along from the pickled onions.

But now? I’m delighted to tell my friend that my lippy – a pinkish nude in a shade called ‘Smooch’ – isn’t by Charlotte, but a bloke called George (at Asda), and it cost a bargainacious £4.

I’m a cheap date these days, and I’m not ashamed to admit it. Over a decade since the last recession hit, we’ve all become accustomed to curbing expenses where we can. Ostentatious spending has long been regarded as unnecessary and even uncouth; in fact, there’s kudos to be gained in nabbing a bargain.

Whereas we once viewed them as mysterious and faintly exotic with their unfamiliar brands, pretty much everyone shops in Aldi and Lidl these days. Meanwhile – aware that we’re in there anyway and feeling smugly ‘in the

know’ as we zoom towards their wine aisles – these canny supermarkets have developed beauty and home products that tap into high-end trends and, crucially, are brilliant for the price.

This is where the fun starts – not in buying cheap crumpets (yes, we do that too, but are unlikely to brag about it), but in announcing that your deliciously scented candle came from Lidl, or your current serum was a Poundland buy, and isn’t half bad. When I admired my friend Kim’s beautiful shirt dress I could tell she was chuffed to reveal that it was ‘Clements Ribeiro – from TK Maxx’. Such buys send the message that we’re savvy shoppers.

While that might once have seemed tight-fisted and mean, it’s now regarded as a virtue. In fact, it’s almost embarrassing to admit you’ve shopped posh these days. ‘Lovely skirt,’ my neighbour Elspeth remarked recently. ‘Where’s it from?’

I toyed with the idea of fibbing that it was from our nearby Cancer Research shop or – better still – that I’d spotted

it in my road, hanging out of a skip.

‘It’s Hobbs,’ I murmured into my hand.

‘Hobbs? Get you!’ she exclaimed, gripping her hedge trimmer as if I’d said ‘Chanel, darling’. I should add that minted Elspeth has a holiday apartment on Crete, but no matter.

‘It was in the sale,’ I added, but too late; the trimmer was back on, drowning out my announcement that ‘it was 60% off!’

As she slashed away at the privet I made a mental note to be extremely visible as I unloaded my next big Aldi shop from my car.

In fact, occasional splurge aside, I’m often found rummaging in charity shops and many of my friends seem to prefer secondhand buys to anything we’ve paid full price for. So delighted was I to nab a Boden needlecord skirt for £9.50 on eBay that I wore it until it was in tatters, its torn pink lining flapping at the rear as if my knickers were trying to escape.

One friend, who used to haunt Harvey Nicks and now prowls the rails >>

‘What might once have appeared tight-fisted and mean is now regarded as a virtue’

woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 55

FIONA’S TOP 5 SCRIMP V SWANKY BUYS ✱ HOT-CLOTH CLEANSERS

56 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

‘Go for it, Brian.

You’ve always wanted heated car seat cushions.’

‘You want the deep fat fryer?’ [Thin, posh-looking woman shudders.]

‘I suppose we could use it for tempura.’

‘D’you think you’ll actually use a mini soldering kit?’

‘Look – jodhpurs... for the price of a Pret a Manger baguette!’

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✱ MATTE NUDE LIPSTICKS I love the way a CT lipstick gleams like treasure in my make-up bag. But Asda has come up trumps with this excellent everyday nude – and now I can afford all the shades.

Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick in Super Model, £25 George Lipstick in Cloud 9, £4, George at Asda

PHOTOS:GETTY IMAGES/EYEEM

of the PDSA shop, whispered that she’s ‘embarrassed’ by the super-expensive designer piece her husband gave her for a significant birthday. I’d have offered to adopt it, or at least take it on long-term foster care, but I’d be afraid to be seen with it in public after the Hobbs incident.

You can also get carried away on your penny-pinching crusade, and find yourself buying items merely because they are cheap, and not because you need or even want them. In B&M recently I threw myself at some faux-suede slippers (£4.99) and a nail polish (£1.49 including a separate bottle of topcoat!). With my heart pounding, and rapidly approaching orgasmic delight, I loaded up on trainer socks, body scrubs, jars of peanut butter and an enormous sack of dog food, realising just in time that the eyebrow stencil kit was probably ill-advised for a 55-year-old blonde, and that my husband might not be thrilled by those novelty gummy beer sweets in a plastic tankard.

It’s a tricky issue, this obsession with thrift. You can boast about your fabulous Lidl Bergerac red, and trumpet the fact that you have eked out a chicken for an entire week, bubbling up cauldrons of stock like some modern-day witch. Then you accidentally reveal that your favourite gin is infused with sea kelp handharvested in the Hebrides by a diver called Angus... ✱ Fiona Gibson’s new novel, When Life Gives You Lemons (Avon), is published in March.

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Why I pay

£200 AN HOUR FOR SEX Amanda* is happy in her relationship, but also hires a man to fulfil her sexually. Here she and her escort share their stories

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THE CLIENT’S STORY

manda*, 45, is a successful businesswoman who has been hiring escort, Madison, for the past year.

I’m in a committed relationship with my boyfriend and have been for 10 years, but he has a high-powered job that leaves little time for physical connection.

He’s an amazing man and attractive, but our sex life had dwindled until it was non-existent. When I suggested couples’ counselling, he said he felt uncomfortable with the idea of discussing something very private, so I found myself in my forties with a void in my life.

I practise yoga regularly and a yoga teacher, who knew I had problems with intimacy in my life, suggested I try a sexological bodyworker. I booked some sessions to reawaken my pleasure zones via erogenous massage, then I came across an article about a male escort called Madison. I was intrigued.

I looked at his website and blog and I liked the way he communicated about 58 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

women. Somehow it made me feel comfortable about an awkward subject, so about a year ago I messaged him to ask what he offered.

He came back to ask about me and why I was moved to contact him, so I called him. We had a number of phone calls and texts over the next couple of months, so it felt as if I already knew him before we met.

It was me who suggested we meet.

I felt both nervous and excited as the time approached – I hadn’t experienced physical intimacy in eight years.

We met at a hotel in central London – I dressed up specially, just as I would have for an ordinary date. Madison had arrived first and when I knocked at the door of our room, he opened it and gave me a nice big hug. We talked about lots of

things, like a recent trip I’d been on, and he took things at a relaxed pace.

He asked if I’d like an erotic massage, and his touch was gentle, caring and healing. We did have sex but, to be honest, it was a bit uncomfortable – it had been so long – so he stopped immediately and was completely in tune with my needs when I explained I wasn’t ready.

Since then, Madison and I have met as regularly as I can, within my work schedule. Thankfully my discomfort didn’t happen again, and we were able to enjoy full sex. I’m lucky to be comfortably off so money isn’t a limiting factor, and I see him once or sometimes twice a month depending on my schedule. We’ve even managed a holiday together where we were able

‘I felt both nervous and excited as our meeting approached’

talking point

THE ESCORT’S STORY

M

to spend time exploring the physical and spiritual with tantric sex, which increases the intensity of intimacy through a mind-body connection.

Seeing Madison is not something I have ever spoken to my girlfriends about.

I don’t think they’d understand. Because I’m well off there’s a facade of happiness and they’d think it was bizarre. I’d have to deal with the shame and guilt because they’d think it’s not ‘normal’.

More importantly, I told my boyfriend about Madison recently. I didn’t want it to be a secret and it was something I wanted us to work on together. He was incredibly understanding and supportive. I explained I didn’t want to go down the road of having affairs but that I had to find a way to meet my need for intimacy. He

agreed and, if anything, that openness has allowed our relationship to thrive.

For me, seeing a male escort has been empowering. Women have sexual desires and that’s not a terrible or awful thing. I don’t feel it’s seedy – it’s so much more than sex, there are emotional and physical feelings and it’s taught me to appreciate my body again. But in the end, I know I’m paying Madison for a service he provides, in the same way that I pay a personal trainer to help with my fitness.

I’d like to continue seeing Madison.

I know it’s his job, but every relationship is different and I believe we have a unique connection.

I’d recommend hiring an escort to any woman who feels this need in her life – though I don’t know how easy it is to find someone as special as Madison.

‘Women have sexual desires and that’s not a terrible or awful thing’

adison, 40, has been working as an international escort for the past six years. He charges £200 an hour for his services.

The idea of becoming an escort arose after some of the women I was seeing (in open relationships) started to comment on how different their experience was with me, compared with other men, because I got so much enjoyment from pleasing them. I was working in the corporate sector at the time and wanted a change, so one day I quit my finance job, designed a website and decided to become a high-class escort. I haven’t looked back since.

Clients contact me via my website and let me know they’re interested in meeting up. I spend a good amount of time trying to understand what the client would like to gain from our time together and how best I can give it to her. Then we set a time and place to meet, which is usually a hotel, and we take it from there.

The first time I saw a client it was like a date and we had a lot of fun. It felt completely natural, even when she paid me. With some clients I form an emotional attachment, but ‘attachment’ is a loaded word. For me, it’s more of a mutual fondness due to the intimate connection that we have shared. Once or twice I’ve been tempted to begin a relationship with a client, but it probably wouldn’t be a good idea.

I’ve had girlfriends while working as an escort but it comes with issues around jealousy. I’m honest to a fault and I always give a woman the opportunity to make an informed decision. Most things can be resolved but if it’s not working we both have to be mature enough to accept it and move on. But I’d probably reconsider my career choice if I were in a serious, long-term relationship.

I have six regular clients, and I will usually see two clients a week, as my bookings tend to be 12-24 hours’ long, or a full weekend. I occasionally have bookings for weeks at a time but they tend to be international clients who want me to travel to them. >> woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 59

‘I decided to become a highclass escort and I haven’t looked back since’

Madison works as an escort I maintain my client base in-between visits by having regular conversations, usually via text or telephone. I don’t get paid to talk to them, I do it because I find them interesting and they turn me on – I suspect the feeling is mutual. We talk about everything from sex, relationships and fashion, to food, religion and society.

Sometimes I’ll get asked to go away with a client. I wouldn’t quite call it a ‘holiday’ as it’s still very much work, but I accompany some clients abroad to retreats, spas and what have you. Some escorts stipulate sleeping and personal time but I’m quite flexible and happy to play it by ear.

My job also involves a lot of research.

There are things that I may be familiar with but don’t fully understand how they work. For one BDSM (bondage, discipline, sadism and masochism) session, a client wanted to be tied up in a particular position that was quite tricky to master. I spent a few days learning new techniques so I wouldn’t be fumbling around on the day.

I don’t accept everyone who approaches me as a client. I’ll usually have a discussion to understand their desires and if I don’t think I’m best suited I respectfully let them know, but that doesn’t happen very often. Clients tend

to respect my honesty and appreciate that I’m not just out to take their money.

My family are fully aware of what I do for a living, including my mum. I’ve always walked my own path so it wasn’t a huge surprise. I’m a single parent to a teenage daughter who didn’t bat an eyelid when I told her, but she did ask questions. How’s that for a birds and bees discussion?

To succeed as a male escort, I think there are four key things you need.

The ability to put your ego aside and focus on what makes the client happy.

A healthy lifestyle, plenty of stamina and a nice physique.

A sense of humour and confidence – clients don’t want to hear about your insecurities.

Thick skin, as society will treat you differently.

Many women tend to give so much that it becomes expected, and at some stage, they lose themselves in the drudgery of modern life. They’re mothers, daughters, sisters, wives, colleagues and bosses but underneath it all, they’re women with their own needs. Ultimately they want to be noticed, and every once in a while made to feel really special.

I remember one client telling me in frustration that what she really needed was some great sex and ‘a mind-blowing orgasm’. We had quite an adventure…

‘Women want to be noticed and every once in a while made to feel really special’

60 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

Susan Quilliam on the relationship between escort and client.

It’s a common story. A relationship is still committed but the sex is non-existent. What now? Ending the partnership would forfeit the many benefits. A romantic affair might threaten the commitment.

For Amanda, the answer is escort Madison. A man willing and able to provide sexual fulfilment with no involvement and absolute confidentiality. The arrangement fits the bill – which Amanda happily pays.

But most of us would have doubts. Paying for sex can seem wrong, desperate; being paid for sex can seem exploitative, immoral.

And what if Madison were less skilled or considerate? What if Amanda were to fall in love and be – inevitably – rejected?

That said, Amanda is clear she gets what she wants – erotic pleasure plus sensitive care and personal empowerment. Madison’s job is not only financially but also professionally and personally rewarding. Both are honest with partners, both of them proud of what they do.

My doubt is otherwise. It’s that what Madison offers, and what Amanda so badly wants, should ideally be given and taken with love, and for free. And I don’t just mean the sex, but the emotional support.

As Madison says, we all justifiably want to be ‘noticed’, ‘made to feel special’, allowed to take as well as give, encouraged to fulfil our own needs. If that’s not possible, then change the relationship – via the counselling that Amanda’s partner so summarily dismisses – or leave and look elsewhere.

I don’t blame Amanda for meeting her needs with Madison. But I dearly want her, and every woman (and man) tempted to use sexual services, to recognise that meeting these needs with a loving partner is not only cheaper than using an escort but ultimately far more fulfilling.

WORDS: SHARON SWEENEY, KIRA AGASS, MADISON JAMES; THEMADISONJAMES.COM. PHOTOS: GETTY IMAGES/ ISTOCKPHOTO, JAY BROOKS/THE TIMES MAGAZINE/NEWS LICENSING. *NAME CHANGED TO PROTECT IDENTITY

VIEW FROM A PSYCHOLOGIST

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From flexible working hours to all-female employees, these entrepreneurs have created companies with an ethos of supporting women at work

‘I was determined to run a business with hours to suit women’ Carrie Elizabeth Dennahy, 34, lives in Shoreditch, London, with her partner, Darran. In 2015 she gave up a secure job to launch Carrie Elizabeth Jewellery and create a female-friendly workplace.

THE IDEA I had worked as a jewellery buyer for a high street brand throughout my 20s and noticed that there was a huge gap in the market between cheap fashion jewellery and high-end jewellery. I wanted to make luxurious but affordable pieces, using semi-precious stones and real diamonds, which made women feel powerful and special every time they wore them.

As well as a desire to fulfil my creative vision, I was determined to run a business with flexible hours to suit women. In retail

I had witnessed so much lost talent due to inflexible working practices.

incredibly scary spending that much money. My strategy was to sell online, so I knew I had to invest my time and skills in photography. I took to Instagram to market my collection, and spent all my time and creativity into thinking of new and interesting ways to photograph the pieces to make them stand out.

WHAT HAPPENED NEXT

BREAKTHROUGH MOMENT

I worked on my business plan for three months while I continued my day job.

I made sure I was clear about what the brand would look like and what my USP was. I sourced suppliers, briefed my designs and took a trip to India to see the first samples – all before I handed in my notice. As soon as I saw the first pieces in real life, I felt a rush of excitement that I will never forget, and I knew there was no going back.

I planned how I wanted my range to look and worked out how much it would cost me to launch the business. I put all my savings into it and took a personal loan from a friend for the rest. It was

After three months our brand was accepted onto notonthehighstreet.com, and after six we launched on Asos.

STEEPEST LEARNING CURVE There are many learning curves when running a business for the first time – cash flow being one of the most tricky!

I worked a part-time job in the first year to help with this and invested as much as I could back into the business.

WHERE I AM NOW The business is going from strength to strength. We have an all-woman team of five (including my sister Lara, a website

Her pieces bridge the gap between ‘fashion’ and ‘fine’ jewellery

TOP TIP Stay as inspired as

developer), almost possible about what you’re 100,000 Instagram doing, as this will show in followers and have just your work. And make sure launched a collaboration you employ others who with Fearne Cotton (via balance out your notonthehighstreet.com), skill set. which is a proud moment.

All my team work remotely from home, which benefits the environment (no travel to work and no office to power) and gives flexibility. We communicate via a WhatsApp group chat, a weekly conference call and have a face-to-face catch-up once a month.

I trust everyone to manage their own time, and I strive to make their roles work for them. In return I get an awesome team who go above and beyond. >>

Fearne Cotton (left) and Carrie have collaborated on a collection together

BUSINESS BREAKDOWN Start-up costs: £25,000 Comprising…

Website and photography: £3,500 Packaging: £1,500 Samples and stock: £20,000 Current turnover: £3 million carrieelizabeth.co.uk woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 63

‘I could see there was a gap for a safe taxi service for women’ Sade Agboola, 37, lives in Croydon, south London, with her husband and son. Two years ago she set up Annisa Cars, a website-based taxi service for women and children, employing only female drivers.

THE IDEA The inspiration came from my own experience. I had been ill and when I had to go to the hospital I found it difficult to get my son to school (I was a single parent at the time). A lot of minicab companies won’t take anyone under 16 or 18. I’d also had uncomfortable experiences using public transport and minicabs – I really didn’t want some drivers to know where I lived. I could see there was a gap for a safe and reliable taxi service for women and children.

WHAT HAPPENED NEXT In between my day job as a fraud analyst for a retail group, I researched my idea – I even stopped people in Croydon’s shopping centre to ask their opinion.

The reaction was so positive – I had people asking when they could book a cab! But it took me around a year and

TOP TIP

Find a solution to an everyday problem and be passionate otherwise you’ll get bored or give up, as running a business is hard work!

a half before I was ready.

I had to have planning permission to run the business from home, and I had to get an operator’s licence. While waiting, I went on a two-month business course funded by a housing association, which really confirmed that I was doing the right thing. I launched Annisa Cars in November 2017, with just one driver.

After a few months I was employing three drivers; and within a year, 30.

BREAKTHROUGH MOMENT At the start business was very quiet and I was feeling down. I decided to call my local paper to place an advertisement.

When I told them that I’d just launched a minicab service for women, they said ‘We’re coming to interview you tomorrow’. When the article ran my bookings went from zero to a thousand!

STEEPEST LEARNING CURVE Finding out how to run a cab service was really hard – there’s very little accurate information out there. I was advised to invest in an expensive

Sade set up her company to make women feel safer computer bookings system, which I then found I didn’t even need!

WHERE I AM NOW Demand is so high we have a waiting list. I’m also promoting a new service – a school run using public transport, accompanied by an experienced chaperone (usually an ex-childminder).

It’s important to cut our carbon footprint, and this is a way to help do this.

BUSINESS BREAKDOWN Start-up costs: £10,000 Comprising…

Licences and planning approval: £4,700 Advertising: £2,300 Insurance: £350 Website and IT: £2,150 Training: £500 Turnover: £8,000-£12,000 annisacars.co.uk

brand new directions

TOP TIP

Be upfront about what you want. Also it helps to have a trusted friend outside of the business who you can use as a sounding board.

‘The colour magenta reflects our values of being strong and inspiring’ Gretchen Betts (above right) is 40 and from Bridgend in South Wales. Three years ago she set up a female-friendly financial planning business, Magenta, with business partner Julie Lord (left).

WORDS: CHRIS MORLEY. PHOTOS: COURTESY OF NOT ON THE HIGH STREET, CROYDON ADVERTISER/BPM MEDIA, GETTY IMAGES

THE IDEA In 2015 Julie and I were working as financial planners at a large, maledominated corporate company. We were fed up with the formal set-up and longed for the autonomy to make our own decisions. Gradually the idea emerged of setting up our own company with a fun, female-friendly environment.

WHAT HAPPENED NEXT A big step was coming up with the name Magenta. We felt the psychology behind the colour reflected our values of being strong and inspiring, and promoting balance and harmony.

So, in 2016, we took the plunge and set up on our own. In the beginning it was just Julie and me working from home, but after six months we had taken on

four (female) members of staff. It was challenging at first because we were all working separately and we had to rent rooms for client meetings. We wanted to keep costs as low as possible until the end of our first financial year, when we could assess how we were doing. Thankfully we were profitable from the start, although we were frugal and kept a close eye on budgets.

BREAKTHROUGH MOMENT Winning the 2016 Bridgend Business Forum Start-up of the Year award was fantastic recognition for all our hard work, and in same year we were awarded Adviser Firm of the Year in Wales,

by Professional Adviser magazine. Not only were we immensely proud, but it felt like a tipping point in the business.

STEEPEST LEARNING CURVE For me, it was learning how to manage people. I had to take on all the human resources aspect of the business, which was quite challenging!

The Magenta team

WHERE I AM NOW We’re still expanding our client base and always looking for ways to ‘think more pink’. We’ve just appointed our first trainee financial planner, which brings the all-female team up to eight. We’ve been in our shiny new offices for two years, and we’re located on the main business street in Bridgend. Currently I’m thinking of succession planning, as Julie will likely retire in the next five years. Taking on our new trainee is the first step in ensuring we’ll have a strong team for the future.

BUSINESS BREAKDOWN Start-up costs: £45,000 Comprising…

Regulation and compliance: £10,000 IT equipment: £5,000 Salaries: £30,000 Current turnover: £900,000 magentafp.com woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 65

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your finances

SMART

with money Faith Archer‘s top tips on how to spend smarter – and save money – this month

TREAT YOURSELF

PHOTOS: GETTY IMAGES/ISTOCKPHOTO

Thrifty trick Cash in on cashback to nab romantic presents for your loved one for less.

If you aren’t already a member of cashback websites, such as TopCashback and Quidco, look out for generous new member offers. Previous joining offers include £10-£15 off Valentine’s chocolates from Hotel Chocolat, flowers from Interflora or a free card from Moonpig.

After joining, you can then earn further cashback by clicking through from a cashback site before buying online.

If you are a member, consider claiming cashback you’ve already earned to pay for presents, and boost the payout by up to 25% if you withdraw cashback as giftcards for specific stores.

If you fancy splashing out on something sparkly for Valentine’s Day, put a (pre-loved) ring on it.

Like cars, the price of diamond rings drops dramatically once they are second-hand.

This means you can not only find fabulous vintage designs, but Neil Jackson from Grays Antiques points out that many antique pieces are also sold free from 20% VAT. Plus, if you buy at auction, the commission, or buyer’s premium, is likely to be around 10% to 20% rather than the 100% markup at a contemporary jewellery store.

If you find high-quality gemstones in an ugly setting, you could always get them remounted to create something unique.

Need to know Inheritance tax might not be the most romantic reason for a proposal, but marriage can certainly slash bills.

If you’re married or in a civil partnership, you can pass on everything you own to your other half free from inheritance tax – including any unused inheritance tax allowances.

Thanks to an extra allowance introduced in April 2017, married couples can currently leave £950,000 free from this 40% death tax, and that will rise to £1 million in April.

The new ‘residence nil rate band’ (RNRB) applies when leaving your home to direct descendants, such as children or grandchildren. The RNRB is currently £150,000, rising to £175,000 from April, and afterwards with inflation. It can be used on top of the existing £325,000 nil rate band.

But if you are unmarried and leave more than £325,000 to your other half, they face paying 40% inheritance tax on anything over, no matter how long you lived together.

This month I’m... comparing petrol prices.

Accelerate over to petrolprices.com to find out where you can buy the cheapest fuel nearby.

There’s even an app. Just pop in your postcode and tweak how far you’re willing to go, up to 20 miles. Saving a few pence per litre may not make a big difference on a single tank, but really adds up when refuelling every week. Prices vary by up to 10% between service stations near me.

FOR MORE MONEY-SAVING TIPS

visit Faith’s blog at muchmorewithless.co.uk

welcome to the world of

The one-stop edit of the best modern style inspiration and design ideas

WORDS: CHARLEY WILLIAMS-HOWITT. PHOTO: THEA BADDILEY. HAIR & MAKE-UP JO CLAYTON. STYLING: FATIMA TRUSCOTT. MODEL: ANNALIESE DAYES AT MILK. LIP GLOSS: YSL VERNIS A LEVRES WATER STAIN IN DIVE IN THE NUDE. EARRINGS: MODELÕS OWN. EMBELLISHED TOP: PHASE EIGHT

FASHION

&

BEAUTY

If you buy one thing this month

SLICK ON A LIP GLOSS

Want your lips to look fuller in seconds? Easy! Modern lip gloss is now non-stick and big on shine. We love Fenty Beauty’s Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer, £16, Boots, in a suits-all pinky-nude shade. For bolder colour, try YSL Vernis à Lèvres Water Stain, £29, Boots, which offers 14 rich shades. Or consider a gloss with benefits.

Clarins Instant Light Natural Lip Perfector, £18, both nourishes and hydrates your lips. There’s never been a better time to shine!

woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 69

Jacket, £79, sizes xs-l, & Other Stories

Hat, £45, Hobbs

Necklace, £19, Accessorize

New ways with

DENIM Add a dash of this classic fabric to instantly update your winter wardrobe Shoes, £190, Boden

Jumper, £78, sizes xxs-xxxl, J.Crew

The versatile jacket

Jacket, £45, sizes 6-24, M&S Collection

ther you want a chic belted style or sy shearling trim, there are so many to wear the updated denim jacket. lam and team it with a silky skirt arten it up with tailored trousers s versatile piece is here to stay!

Skirt, £29, sizes 4-18, Topshop

70 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

The flattersall-shapes skirt Stick to midi lengths and A-line shapes – it’s the most grownup way to wear a denim skirt now. Thanks to the heavier fabric, this style skims over your hips and thighs, and flatters all leg shapes. Wear with a light knit and slouchy kneehigh boots for a stylish but comfortable alternative to jeans this winter, and switch to sandals and a pretty blouse when spring comes around.

3 COMPILED BY: ELOISA JOHNSON. PHOTOS: GETTY IMAGES

4

Shoes, £49, Dorothy Perkins

The hardworking jumpsuit

The jumpsuit has had a place in our hearts and wardrobes for some time now, as it’s the ideal fuss-free everyday outfit, and now it has arrived in denim. Curvy women will look best in a style with a belted middle, while those with big busts should wear it slightly unzipped to create a flattering V-neck.

Coat, £30, sizes 4-20, Primark

Skirt, £120, sizes xs-l, Uterqüe

Skirt, £55, sizes 8-22, Monsoon

Jumper, £28, sizes xs-xl, Next Bag, £49.50, M&S Shirt, £29, sizes 4-18, Topshop

The new statement jeans

Flares and wide-leg designs are set to replace skinny jeans this year – hurrah! They’re great for pear shapes as they balance the proportions of wider hips – just keep your waist defined to avoid the extra fabric overwhelming your frame. Add a heel, even a small one, as you’ll create the illusion of longer legs.

how to wear it

Bracelet, £95, Missoma

Jeans, £30, sizes 10-32, JD Williams

Blazer, £79, sizes 6-24, M&S Collection

Shoes, £110, Boden Jeans, £54.95, sizes 2-24, Gap

Bag, £55, Hotter

Jumpsuit, £48, sizes 8-24, V by Very

Jumper, £25.99, sizes s-xl, Zara Coat, £189, sizes 6-18, Mint Velvet

Jumpsuit, £169, sizes 4-16, Whistles

Bag, £49.99, Zara

Shoes, £79, Hotter woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 71

style inspiration

SLEEVELESS KNIT We’re always searching for those easy-wear items you can just throw on with jeans and look instantly stylish. This sleeveless knit does just the job and we guarantee you’ll want to live in it all winter. Mixing in a striped shirt adds interest – but a crisp white one works too.

Turn up the sleeves to keep it all looking effortlessly casual.

Sweater vest, £29.99, sizes s-l, Zara; shirt, £85, sizes 8-18, Gant; jeans, £65, sizes 8-20, Seasalt

Layer up!

Add a little spring into your winter wardrobe. Here’s our pick of the key pieces

PHOTOGRAPHER TIFFANY MUMFORD FASHION EDITOR HANNAH HUGHES

BRILLIANT BRETON Designed in the 1850s as the uniform for the French navy and re-purposed by Coco Chanel in the early 1900s, every fashion stylist has a version of this understated striped top. Try wearing it with a casual jumpsuit, beneath a part-buttoned denim shirt or layering under other tops so the sleeves peep out.

Jumpsuit, £149, sizes 4-16, Whistles; top, £25, sizes 10-32, JD Williams; earrings, £17.95, seolgold.com; stacking rings, £95 each, danielladraper.com; shoes, £55, Hotter >>

woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 73

ONE JACKET, TWO WAYS The oddly named shacket is here and doubles up as a shirt now and a jacket in the summer. Invest in a boxy linen style that looks as good done up as it does worn open over a simple white T-shirt.

Coat, £159, sizes s-l, Kin by John Lewis & Partners; shirt, £35, sizes 10-32, JD Williams; T-shirt, £19.50, sizes 6-24, Autograph at M&S; trousers, £35, sizes 6-24, M&S Collection

style inspiration

TIMELESS TAILORING Never underestimate the versatility of a crisp white shirt.

Pair with a wrap dress to create depth or wear buttoned up beneath a jumper or under a jumpsuit.

Dress, £129, sizes xs-l, secondfemale.com; shirt, £55, sizes 8-16, French Connection; necklace, £265; ring, £95, both Monica Vinader; bag, £28, JD Williams; boots, £119, Zara >>

woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 75

style inspiration

PICK A PINAFORE This suits-all style is back from the 1970s and is designed to be layered. Pinafore dresses, or those designed with a deep V at the front or back, not only skim your shape but look effortlessly chic worn over a simple long-sleeve top.

Dress, £85, sizes 8-16, Great Plains; top, £29.95, sizes 6-20, Seasalt; earrings, £95, Missoma; bracelet, £30, screampretty.com; bag, £95.99, Zara; shoes, £269, redwingheritage.eu

TRY A TUNIC A wrap dress doesn’t always need to be body-skimming.

This tunic-style wrap is cut to a relaxed fit – perfect for disguising any post-Christmas indulgence. It has pockets (a must for oversized dresses) and looks great with a thin polo layered underneath.

Dress, £99, sizes 8-18, Kin by John Lewis & Partners; roll-neck jumper, £16, sizes 8-34; bag, £29, both JD Williams; earrings, £85, Missoma >>

Coat, £80, sizes 10-32, JD Williams

Trainers, £79, Hotter

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SHOP

the shoot

Jacket, £79, sizes 8-18, AND/OR at John Lewis & Partners

Watch, £98, Olivia Burton

Trousers, £16, sizes 8-24, George at Asda

Shoes, £195, LK Bennett Dress, £59, sizes 6-24, Autograph at M&S

Earrings, £15.99, Zara

Cardigan, £59.95, sizes 6-20, Joules

FASHION ASSISTANTS: BECKY JOINER-O’RIORDAN, EMMA WHITE AND IMANI-NIA FRANCIS-TSOLAKIS. HAIR & MAKE-UP: CAROLYN WREN, USING SUQQU AND MONAT. MODEL: STEPHANIE LANGE AT MILK MANAGEMENT. ONE JACKET, TWO WAYS: SIDE TABLE, £150, JOHN LEWIS & PARTNERS; BROWN AND BLUE VASE, £26, OLIVER BONAS; BLUE VASE, £28, LA REDOUTE; SMALL CLEAR VASE, £15, TOAST. TIMELESS TAILORING: STOOL (LEFT), £199, JOHN LEWIS & PARTNERS; PINK VASE, £32, OLIVER BONAS; TALL CLEAR VASE, £35; SMALL CLEAR VASE, £15, BOTH TOAST; STOOL (RIGHT), £275, THE WHITE COMPANY; SMALL ROUND VASE, £39, TOAST; BLUE VASE, £28, LA REDOUTE

Jacket, £245, sizes 6-24, Autograph at M&S; vest, £115, sizes 8-12, Somerville; roll-neck, £27.95, sizes 6-20; trousers, £65, sizes 8-20, both Seasalt; earrings, £98, Missoma; necklace, £17.95, seolgold.com

Bag, £395, Lulu Guinness

style inspiration

MILITARY CHIC Fashion gets practical this season – jackets have big pockets and are worn oversized. Ideal paired with jeans or layered over a loose midi dress with chunky boots.

Coat, £280, sizes 8-18, Modern Rarity at John Lewis & Partners; jacket, £85, sizes 8-16, Great Plains; dress, £89, sizes 8-20, Kin by John Lewis & Partners; earrings, £40, Olivia Burton

MY TOP 10

for spring

Our new style guru Amber Graafland navigates this year’s trends so you can be all set for a chic season ahead

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FROM RUNWAY TO YOU

TOMMY HILFIGER

A

fter months of hibernating in thermals and chunky knits, now’s the time to start looking forward. Yes, I know it’s still cold outside, but warmer days will arrive at some point, and it’s always good to be prepared.

The problem is, many of the shops haven’t received their new-season collections yet, so dressing for this in-between bit isn’t easy. But with a bit of planning and insider knowhow, you can shop wisely and future-proof your wardrobe.

It’s just a question of picking the right new trends when you shop. And with some sale bargains still on offer, this means not only are you buying clothes that will see you through to next winter, but you’re saving money as well.

The key is identifying the looks that will work for you.

Costly mistakes have taught me I don’t have to rush out and snap up every new trend each season. And having seen the new collections, I’ve narrowed my shopping list down to include a beautiful broderie anglaise blouse,

a soft leather skirt and a timeless trench coat.

For the record, I’ll be giving the crop tops a miss. They’re going to be on everyone aged under 20 this spring – but my midriff-baring days are well behind me – so this is one trend I’m more than happy to leave to my teenage daughter.

Faux snake mac, £165, sizes 6-16, Elena ruffle blouse, £60, sizes 6-16, half moon cross-body bag, £100, all French Connection; jeans £195, sizes 24-34, Joseph; mules, £85, Dune London

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A TIMELESS CLASSIC WITH A TWIST This pale pink trench coat is a subtle, stylish nod to spring’s candy shades trend, while allowing you to stay well within your comfort zone.

If you’re wary of colour and usually stick to natural tones, this is an easy way to give your wardrobe an instant update. Belted coats also create a waist, even if you don’t have one. Fresh and feminine, this sophisticated coat is the perfect antidote to winter. Pale pink trench, £165, sizes 6-18, Arket

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THE MIDI DRESS

Finding a long-sleeved midi length dress is pretty much the holy grail for most women – and here is this season’s winner. The striking emerald design ticks all the boxes, with an elegant V-neckline, pretty gathered sleeves and

ultra-forgiving fitted high waist. Perfect for now teamed with a pair of elegant kitten heel knee-high boots, then with a delicate strappy sandal in the summer. If they made them, I’d snap up one of these in every colour! Green sheared detail dress, £169, sizes 4-18, Whistles

LADYLIKE LEATHER

IT’S A BLING THING

Gold statement jewellery never really goes away, and if there’s one piece that will elevate any outfit, it’s this gold link necklace from Missoma.

The perfect combination of chic and contemporary, it’s definitely worth splashing out on. It’s the perfect balance of bling too – bold enough to make a statement, but still incredibly elegant.

It also looks great layered with finer pieces of jewellery for a bang-on-trend effect.

Lucy Williams 18ct goldplated T-bar chain necklace, £215, Missoma

ageless style

3

While winter leather was in camel and baby blue hues, for spring, it’s all about embracing bolder colours.

Thanks to the cleverly cut panels, this flattering A-line midi skirt skims your thighs and highlights your waist.

It’s that butter-soft kind of leather that gets more malleable every time you wear it and, most importantly, it doesn’t ‘seat’ – meaning there is no residual bottomshape left in the leather when you stand up from sitting.

It’s a wise investment buy.

Leather skirt, £199, sizes 6-24, M&S

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ANIMAL MAGIC

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Nothing has the power to transform an outfit from drab to fab quite like animal print. Snakeskin is having a fashion moment again, especially on accessories, which are also the easiest way to look current without committing yourself to a pattern overdose. In fact, if you only wear one print this spring, make it python. You’ll also be pleased to see that ever-practical ballet flats are back too, and once you’ve slipped into a pair, you’ll never want to take them off.

Harlow snake print shoes, £175, LK Bennett >> woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 81

6

THE ANYWHICHWAY SCARF

This once prim accessory has undergone a dramatic makeover and is now shaping up to be one of spring’s hottest looks. And as with all new trends, it’s all about how you style it.

Try yours fastened around your waist as a belt to add interest to plain trousers, or if you have shoulderlength hair, tied around your ponytail. Of course, you could simply wear it as a chic neckerchief or wrapped around the handle of your favourite tote. The scarf world is yours! Botanical ‘A’ silk scarf in Midnight Blue, £95, Aspinal of London

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THE BOHO BLOUSE

Even if you remember it the first, second or even third time around, one fabric that should be making its way into your wardrobe for spring is broderie anglaise. The feminine crisp cotton fabric is having a bit of a moment again.

Great for livening up your winter wardrobe, a broderie blouse is the perfect transition piece. Pair yours with a pair of flared jeans for a wistful boho look. Sara mixed broderie anglaise blouse, £109, sizes 4-16, Whistles

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THE CLEVER CLUTCH This oyster leather style is the high street’s answer to the sought-after Bottega Veneta pouch that sells out the minute it lands in store – even though it commands £2,000. My 82 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

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recommendation is made from the finest baby smooth leather and looks every inch as luxurious as the designer version, without the silly price tag. The colour makes it incredibly versatile and this covetable clutch will work tirelessly, updating your wardrobe from day through to evening. Nude leather clutch, £225, Russell & Bromley

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THE SUBTLE MAKE-UNDER

Fashion’s fixation with the 90s has set dizzying new heights this season, so prepare to give your wardrobe a minimalist make-under.

Second time around, leave the slinky slip dresses to the kids and create your own grownup version with a silk bias-cut skirt, teamed with a slouchy polo neck. So now you look modern without revealing too much – perfect! Harley asymmetric skirt, £175, sizes 4-16, Reiss

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THE SHAPE OF THINGS TO COME

High-waisted trousers have dominated the sartorial landscape for some time now, but things are getting a whole lot looser for spring. Low-slung tailoring is taking centre stage and is perfect for creating a nonchalant laid-back look.

To avoid things looking overly slouchy, team with a pair of elegant heels and a fine merino knit. FYI they come with a rather lovely matching single-breasted blazer if you fancy an affordably chic suit.

Green trousers, £80, sizes 6-20, Arket

PHOTOS: LIZ McCAULAY, GETTY IMAGES. HAIR & MAKE UP: CARL STANLEY

ageless style

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T

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YOUR SHAPE

your way!

Tall, petite or curvy, we’ve found flattering outfits on the high street

PERFECTLY PETITE Susie, 69, is 5ft 2in. She’s a retired stylist and lives in East Sussex.

Tailoring and fitted styles will flatter your shape best, as does wearing your shirt with a French tuck (half in, half out) to emphasise your waist.

Opt for jeans cropped at the ankle.

To ensure the best length, always choose a petite fit.

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If you’re 5ft 3in or under, we recommend the petite collections at Asos, banana republic.co.uk, Dorothy Perkins, Gap, J.Crew, Next, Seasalt, Topshop and Vero Moda.

Coat, £72, sizes 6-18, Next Petite; blazer, £160, sizes 6-22, Boden Petite; shirt, £95, sizes 6-14, jennifer-anne.co.uk; jeans, £30.99, sizes 8-18, Even&Odd at zalando.co.uk; earrings, £48, Olivia Burton; bag, £110, Matt & Nat; shoes, £95, Jones Bootmaker

real fashion

TALL WOMEN Sherrie, 43, is 5ft 10in and lives in Manchester. She’s a registered nutritional therapist at rootcausemedicalclinics.com A classic riding boot is timeless and worth investing in. Show off your long legs by pairing them with skinny jeans.

Over 5ft 9in? Try Asos, Boden, Gap, New Look, nydj.co.uk, Seasalt, thetallcollective.com, Vero Moda and Wallis.

Pick clothing that has been specially designed for tall frames because the torsos, hemlines and cuff lengths are all scaled up to suit your longer proportions.

Coat, £195, sizes 8-24, Long Tall Sally; top, £18, shirt, £28, both sizes 6-22, Dorothy Perkins Tall; trousers, £48, sizes 6-18, Next Tall; earrings, £44.95, seolgold. com; bag, £59.99, Zara; shoes, £230, DuoBoots >> woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 85

Try Bravissimo for clothes cut to flatter larger busts.

Elomi offers nationwide bra fittings, as do larger branches of M&S.

BIGGER BUST Vindra, 60, wears a G-cup bra. She lives in London and works part-time as a nursing educator.

Balance out your top by choosing items that don’t tailor in on your bottom half.

Wide-leg trousers and A-line skirts work well.

Getting professionally measured and fitted for a bra transforms your silhouette and can make you up to one dress size smaller.

Jacket, £75, sizes 8 curvy-18 super curvy, Bravissimo; dress, £70, sizes 8-22, Monsoon; bag, £35, M&S; earrings, £85, rings, £65 and £75, all Missoma; bracelet, £6, Accessorize; shoes, £69, Hotter

real fashion

CELEBRATE YOUR CURVES Sandra, 59, wears a size 16-18. She lives in London and is a practice manager at an opticians.

There are so many places to shop for clothing that goes up to larger sizes. Try Asos Curve, bonprix. co.uk, Curvissa, Elvi, Evans, JD Williams, Monsoon Curve, Oasis Curve and Studio 8 by Phase Eight.

PHOTOS: LIZ McAULAY. FASHION EDITOR: HANNAH HUGHES. ASSISTED BY: MANUELA RIO TINTO. HAIR & MAKE-UP: CARL STANLEY USING LAURA MERCIER AND PAUL MITCHELL LUXURY HAIRCARE

Pick a bag size that’s in proportion to your body and draws attention to your best bits.

The wide lapels of this cropped jacket will help balance a bigger bottom half. If you prefer a longer coat, pick a belted style to define your middle.

Jacket, £66, sizes 6-22, Next; top, £20, sizes 12-32, Simply Be; jeans, £35.99, sizes 12-26, Violeta by Mango; belt, £17.99, Mango; bracelets and rings, Sandra’s own; bag, £59.99, boots, £119, both Zara woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 87

TIME for YOU

I

With life becoming ever busier, Sarah Cooper-White explores how our beauty routine can help us feel better, as well as look great

f you don’t have time to meditate, attend yoga classes or a have regular relaxing massage, try using your daily beauty rituals as your opportunity to de-stress. Get more from your bath time by introducing calming oils, or by learning how your existing skincare regime can help you relax. It has never been easier to look after your inner wellbeing, as well as your outer beauty.

beauty in-depth

BREATHE to relax Every morning, add a few drops of Tisserand Energy High Pulse Point Roller Ball, £6.25, onto your wrists and neck, and breathe deeply. The blend of lime, grapefruit and orange leaf has been designed to lift spirits. ‘To help calm a busy mind at the end of the day, follow a relaxing breathing pattern to encourage a deep slumber,’ advises Rebecca Hopkins, co-founder of Balance Me. First, spritz your face and neck with Balance Me Beauty Sleep Hyaluronic Mist, £20. This blends hyaluronic acid to plump skin, with hemp oils and essential oils to help you relax. Lie down and breathe out, emptying your lungs of air. ‘Breathe in through your nose for four seconds, and hold this for a count of seven seconds,’ advises Rebecca, ‘Then exhale forcefully through your mouth, pursing your lips.’

Repeat this up to four times. You’ll be chilled in no time! >> woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 89

MORNING therapy ‘Take five minutes at the beginning of each day to focus on you,’ says Christina Salcedas, global director of education at Aromatherapy Associates. ‘Thinking about how you’re feeling, how you want to be that day and what you need to do it, can be incredibly calming,’ she adds.

To kick-start your morning, start by dry-brushing your body. Choose a natural brush like Weleda Body Brush, £4.95, and begin at your feet, using short strokes in the direction of your heart to stimulate circulation, working it over your entire body. ‘Then massage Aromatherapy Associates Revive Morning Bath & Shower Oil, £48, which is infused with juniper berry, neroli and fatiguebanishing grapefruit essential oils, onto your torso prior to stepping into a shower,’ suggests Christina. ‘This simple routine will give you that extra zing of energy.’

SCENT yourself happy

To kick-start your morning, start by dry-brushing. Begin at your feet using short strokes, working it over your entire body

Research has found that smelling citrus for 10 minutes can boost your mood for up to half an hour. Mandarin is one of the most uplifting scents, while rose promotes calm, vetiver alleviates emotional stress and lavender oil helps with sleep. A quick spritz of perfume takes no time at all but can transform how you feel for the rest of the day. ✱ Boost your mood with Neom Scent to Make You Happy Wellbeing Fragrance, £40 for 30ml. A spicy, zesty blend of jasmine, bergamot and orange peel for an instant uplift. ✱ Feel cosy and calm with Floris Vert Fougère, £120 for 100ml EDP. The herbal woody blend of lavender, bergamot, patchouli and cedar wood makes you feel as if you’re snugly wrapped up by an open fire.

90 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

beauty in-depth

BATH-TIME bliss

SILK PYJAMAS, ROSIE FOR AUTOGRAPH AT M&S; SLEEP MASK, SLIP; NUDE LACE BODY, M&S; WHITE LACE BODY, LA REDOUTE; WHITE TOWEL, PRIMARK; GREY CARDIGAN, NEXT; GREY BRA AND BLACK KNICKERS, PRIMARK; CASHMERE JUMPER, LA REDOUTE; PJ GREY SHORTS, NEW LOOK

When you do have some time to lock yourself away in the bathroom, there’s nothing more restorative for your wellbeing. ‘Baths have a remarkable power to instantly transform how we look and feel,’ says beauty expert Suzanne Duckett, author of Bathe: The Art of Finding Rest, Relaxation and Rejuvenation in a Busy World (£16.99, Blink Publishing). ‘Bathing reduces stress and can boost mood – a study at the University of Wolverhampton found that a daily bath, usually at the end of the day, significantly improved the mood and optimism of the participants.’ Suzanne believes the perfect bath is totally dependent on your mood – try one or all of these: SOOTHE ANXIETY ‘A long, hot, oily bath needs at least 30 minutes of your time, as this slow ritual is part of the therapy and can help you feel more secure,’ Suzanne says.

Relax and soothe your senses with Cowshed Cosy Comforting Bath & Body Oil, £25.

It blends rose, patchouli and cinnamon and can be used to massage your skin after bathing too.

PERK YOURSELF UP ‘A 20-minute salt bath can purify if you’re overtired or have overindulged,’ says Suzanne.

Try throwing a few handfuls of Westlab Cleanse Bathing Salts, £13.98, into the water. The combination of Epsom and Himalayan salts, as well as lemongrass, pink grapefruit and seaweed oils, will refresh you when you’re feeling sluggish.

BOOST CONFIDENCE ‘If you only have 10 minutes to turn yourself around for an evening out, run a tepid “sheep dip”, as I call it,’ advises Suzanne. Any warmer and you get too hot, bothered and red! ‘This can be a wonderful, transformative beautifier. Scrub away dry, dead and dull skin, then soften and smooth skin from top-to-toe. You’ll step out a new person – a layer shed in every sense.’ >>

woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 91

beauty in-depth

SLEEP well It’s the best beauty treatment we can give ourselves, helping to regenerate the skin and rebuild collagen. But in the UK, almost threequarters of us get less than the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep we need*. If you struggle to drift off, this bedtime ritual will prepare you for a restful night. ✱ Choose a hard-working night cream to prep your skin for sleep. Skin Regimen Tripeptide Cream, £68, may be pricey but when massaged into the skin, it has been clinically proven to reduce stress and anxiety levels, and aid relaxation. ✱ ‘As you get into bed, place a rose quartz crystal under your pillow,’ suggests healer Harriet Emily (harrietemily.com). ‘Rose quartz is calming and helps to amplify energies of love and compassion.

Then, as you lay down, say a few affirmations to yourself that you will wake up in the morning feeling re-energised, refreshed and fully prepared for the day ahead – it really works!’

Turn your evening cleanse into a moment of mindfulness. Face massage helps you unwind and it doesn’t cost a thing

CALMING massage

As well as boosting skin, use your night-time regime as a chance to relax. ‘Turn your evening cleanse into a moment of mindfulness,’ says acupuncturist and healing facialist Annee de Mamiel. ‘Face massage helps you unwind but it’s also a reminder to begin to switch off from the day. Plus it doesn’t cost a thing!’

Begin by warming your cleansing oil in your hands and inhale the essential oils. Choose something with a soothing scent, like Bharti Vyas Special Oil, £35.

As you massage, you will increase circulation, boost oxygen and detoxify your skin. ‘You’ll be surprised how the texture, volume and radiance of your skin will improve in such a short time,’ adds Annee.

BEAUTY DIRECTORS: CHARLEY WILLIAMS-HOWITT AND SARAH COOPER-WHITE. PHOTOS: THEA BADDILEY. HAIR & MAKE-UP: JO CLAYTON. ASSISTED BY: NATALIE YOUNG. STYLING: FATIMA TRUSCOTT. MODEL: MICHELLE CHIASSON AT MODELWERK. *GLOBAL HEALTH SERVICE COMPANY CIGNA 2019; MINTEL 2018; TISSERAND 2019.

✱ Finally, massage some Bramley Calm Balm, £8, into your pulse points, temples and earlobes – ear massage is great for relieving stress.

The soothing blend of rosehip, camomile and yarrow provides the scent of peace and calm needed for you to drift off.

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SKINCARE RESOLUTIONS Small changes yield great results, says Fiona McKim. Make this the year you future-proof your face

beauty inspiration

1 Use an active eye cream Many of these are just ordinary moisturisers in smaller packaging with heftier prices. For results, there are two active ingredients that work brilliantly on eyes. For dark circles, vitamin C is a powerful brightener and antioxidant that improves texture and firmness. Look for at least 5% in airtight, UV-proof packaging, like Kiehl’s PowerfulStrength Line-Reducing & Dark Circle-Diminishing Vitamin C Eye Serum, £41, with 10% vit C and plumping hyaluronic acid. For everything else, retinol is a skinimproving superstar that speeds up cell turnover. You might experience flaking as your skin adjusts, but the results on lines and texture are worth it. Olay Retinol 24 The Night Eye Cream, £34.99, blends pure retinol and 0.3% retinyl propionate, known to be less irritating. The INKEY List Retinol Eye Cream, £9.99 (out February), is effective and a bargain, but not quite so luxurious texture-wise.

2 Wear SPF every day

The trick is finding one that doesn’t feel heavy-layered over other skincare. If you’re not particularly sensitive, go with chemical sunscreens, which penetrate the skin to absorb UV from within, so tend to be residue-free, even at high factors. The Body Shop Multi-Protection Face Mist SPF 30, £18, is pleasingly non-greasy, while Mimitika Face Sunscreen SPF 50, £17.50, has a light texture. If SPF gives you spots or stings your eyes, pick a mineral blocker (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide).

These sit on the skin’s top layer to deflect rays, rarely irritate but can look chalky. Get around that by picking one with a tinted pigment like La Roche Posay Anthelios Tinted Dry Touch Gel-Cream, £17.50, which acts as a light base and UV protection.

3 Make time to prime An unnecessary extra step, or the secret to your best skin yet? Depends which primer you use. Traditional siliconeladen formulas feel nicely slippy but do little more than sit in lines like Polyfilla – briefly satisfying but not beneficial in the long-term. Recently, brands have twigged that we need a very good reason to use yet another product. The result is intelligent primers that offer skincare benefits, as well as the instant gratification of make-up. Laura Mercier’s reformulated range, Pure Canvas, £32 each, is a great example. All five are silicone-free and tackle specific issues, as well as gripping onto make-up. I love Blurring, which creates a smooth matte layer, absorbs oil and nourishes skin with microalgae. Or try Perfecting, a silky formula with pollution-busting antioxidants. If you have rosacea or are prone to flushing, you’ll love Daniel Sandler A-R Foundation Primer, £24.50. It feels cooling, neutralises redness and includes soothing calendula. >>

woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 95

Papery-dry, chapped and peeling skin on your lips shouldn’t be ignored. If you’re stuck in a cycle of covering the cracks with balm, you’ll be surprised how gratifying a bit of TLC can be, starting with exfoliation. Tinker Taylor Lip Scrub, £20, is ultra refined, like skincare for your mouth, with healing cinnamon, cranberry and baobab seed oils. Less pricey but still lovely is Burt’s Bees Conditioning Lip Scrub, £6.99, with honey crystals and cacao seed butter – buff it in with a finger then follow up with a drop of coconut or olive oil. Keep one on your nightstand to layer on in bed, and once you’re in the habit you’ll never look back.

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It’s impossible to make them smaller, so don’t trust products that claim otherwise. But a clean pore will look smaller than one that’s blocked with oil and skin cells. Many pore-clearing products are gimmicky and aimed at teenagers, but bareMinerals’ new 3-step Poreless range is grown-up and a pleasure to use.

It includes a deep-cleaning but non-drying Clay Cleanser, £19, and brilliant Exfoliating Essence, £22, which you swipe on like toner to dissolve debris. Pricier, but very well formulated, is Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Pore Perfecting & Refining Serum, £68, a cocktail of acids plus prickly pear that exfoliates at several levels. Over time, alpha hydroxy acids stimulate collagen to support skin structure so pores are less likely to ‘gape’. Finally, what you can’t change about your skin, blur. New NARS tinted Glow Booster, £28, can be worn under or over make-up for a soft-focus sheen to disguise texture issues.

BEAUTY DIRECTORS: CHARLEY WILLIAMS-HOWITT AND SARAH COOPER-WHITE. PHOTOS: HELEN McARDLE. MAKE-UP: CAROLINE BARNES. HAIR: JASON CROZIER AT STELLA CREATIVE ARTISTS. STYLING: BECKY JOINER-O’RIORDAN. MODEL: ANDREA WAHLGREN AT MODELWERK. JUMPER, BA&SH; EARRINGS, OLIVER BONAS

5 Scrub up on lip care

6 Target pores

MY WELLBEING SECRETS

Alexandra Shulman Since leaving her role as the longest serving editor-in-chief at British Vogue, Alexandra Shulman now has a column in the Mail On Sunday. Awarded an OBE for services to fashion journalism and a CBE for services to magazines, she is a sought-after commentator on fashion, contemporary style and female leadership. She has now diversified into the beauty industry, working with No7 Boots to create a gift collection.

MY BEAUTY INSPIRATION

INTERVIEW BY: CHARLEY WILLIAMSHOWITT. PHOTO: NO7.

VAISHALY PATEL: 020 7224 6088

No7 Stay Perfect Amazing Eyes Pencil, £7.50, Boots I like wearing a classic look – dark eyes created by smudging on a black kohl liner, paired with pale lips – a standard 1960s style.

D.R. Harris Lavender Water, £42, Trouva I occasionally have lymphatic drainage facials by Vaishaly Patel. My skin looks amazing after one.

And I love the aroma of lavender water as it reminds me of my childhood and my mother’s bath.

What I

REALLY USE The iconic editor, 62, shares her beauty wisdom

MY LIPSTICK OF CHOICE

No7 Sheer Temptation Lipstick in Shy Pink, £10, Boots I’m a firm believer in lipstick. It makes me feel like I’m doing something.

My current pick is a subtle pink-toned shade with a hydrating finish.

MY SKIN SAVIOUR

Chanel LE LIFT Smoothing & Firming Cream, £105, John Lewis & Partners I’m lucky to have inherited quite good skin, but a lot of sunbathing has taken its toll. I love Chanel skincare, especially the LE LIFT range.

MY HAIR REDEEMER

Philip Kingsley Elasticizer Intensive Treatment, £32, lookfantastic.com I quite like a messy finish, if I’m honest, but it’s got to be the right kind of messy.

I also have a sensitive scalp, so I’ve used Philip Kingsley products for years. woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 97

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28 Aug

4

Amsterdam & Antwerp Bank Columbus Holiday Weekend

£4 9

£289

£247

£1369

31 Aug

13

British Isles Discovery

Columbus

£1959

£1179

12 Sep

15

Baltic Cities & St Petersburg

Columbus

£21

£1309

26 Sep

9

Autumn Fjordland

Columbus

£1219

£679

Ship

FULL fare was

Saver fare from

8

Majestic Fjordland

Columbus

£1129

£679

26 May

8

Majestic Fjordland

Columbus

£1129

£679

07 Jun

17

Spitzbergen, North Cape & Land of the Midnight Sun

Marco Polo

£247

£1369

£17

£1079

12

British Isles Discovery

23 Jun

12

Hidden Baltic Treasures & Kiel Canal

Marco Polo

£174

£969

09 Jul

11

British Isles Discovery

Columbus

£1 29

£979

19 Jul

8

Majestic Fjordland

Columbus

£1129

£679

25 Jul

16

Baltic Treasures & St Petersburg

Marco Polo

£2169

£1629

2

Weekend Mini Cruise*

Marco Polo

Saver fare from

£2129

19 May

25 Jul

Full fare was

Columbus

Grand British Isles Discovery Marco Polo & River Seine Experience

Columbus

Ship

Baltic Cities & St Petersburg

08 May 18

16 Jun

Days Cruise Title

£11

£59

15

Sailing from Bristol Sails

Days Cruise Title

07 Apr

8

Easter River Seine Experience

Marco Polo

£10

£589

14 Apr

12

Treasures of the British Isles Marco Polo

£17

£969

25 Apr

14

Portugal & Seville Fiesta

Marco Polo

£1999

£1099

08 May

5

Springtime River Seine Experience

Marco Polo

£589

£329

08 May 18

Grand British Isles Discovery & River Seine Experience

Marco Polo

£2479

£1369

Visit iwh.newmarketholidays.co.uk or call 0330 160 7854 quoting code IWH Prices above are per person sharing the lowest twin cabin available. A selection of cabin types is available at ranging prices. All prices and cabins are extremely limited & may be withdrawn without notice, please call us or see our website for latest availability and pricing. Single supplements apply. Standard phone charges apply. Fares exclude gratuities. On board prices in sterling. Payment of on board accounts by card only. Offers operated by Newmarket Holidays Ltd ABTA V7812, a company wholly independent of Woman & Home published by TI Media Limited. *Book by 31 Jan 2020.

Subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time, prices shown include discount. Visit newmarketholidays.co.uk/offers for full terms and conditions.

HEALTH

&

WELLNESS If you try one thing this month

BOOST YOUR RELATIONSHIP

WORDS: LUCY GORNALL. PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES

Louise Chunn, founder of therapy platform Welldoing Ltd (welldoing.org).

Relationships are at the core of our personal happiness. Couples counselling can be a powerful step if things are shaky in your marriage, providing a place to address issues that may just cause hurt in casual conversation.

The couple dynamic, in which two people cohabit and possibly raise a family, is affected by many elements – family history, work stress, income etc, and sometimes life’s difficulties compound the stresses of married life.

Consulting a couples counsellor (also called a relationship therapist or marriage guidance counsellor) gives both partners the chance to express themselves and be heard. The therapist will usually set exercises and also try to encourage honesty. You can read more about how couples counselling works at welldoing.org and find therapists near you.

woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 99

Eat better FOREVER

Change the way you eat and never get that tight waistband feeling again with this easy exclusive eating plan from Slimming World

HOW IT WORKS

Choose one breakfast, one lunch and one dinner every day. Feel free to repeat meals you enjoy and find more ideas at slimmingworld.co.uk or when you join your local Slimming World group or sign up to Slimming World Online.

Foods printed in bold are ‘Free Food’, which you can enjoy freely without needing to weigh, measure or count at all.

Base meals around Free Food, like lean meat, plain tofu, Quorn, fish, pasta, rice, potatoes, eggs, pulses, fat-free dairy, fruit, vegetables and more. If you feel hungry, snack on these foods.

For the best weight loss, reach for fresh fruit or vegetables first.

Also stock up on fat-free dressings, herbs, low-calorie cooking spray, oil-free tomato purée, seasoning, soy sauce, spices and stock cubes, which can be used freely to flavour meals.

To support a healthy balanced diet, Slimming

World encourages you to enjoy measured amounts of foods that provide calcium, like milk and cheese (two per day), and those providing fibre, other essential minerals and healthy oils, such as wholemeal bread, high-fibre cereals, crispbreads, nuts and seeds (one per day). These can be enjoyed as part of your meals. Alternatively, you may choose to use them in hot drinks, or on their own as a snack.

Where you’re enjoying them separately in this plan: choose 350ml skimmed milk, 250ml semi-skimmed milk or 400ml plain, unsweetened soya milk with added calcium, or 30g full-fat hard cheese or 40g reduced-fat hard cheese.

Boost fibre intake with two slices of wholemeal bread, a 60g wholemeal roll, 60g wholemeal pitta or 60g brown, high-fibre white or multi-seed gluten-free bread/roll.

Enjoy up to two treats daily from the list provided.

healthy eating

BREAKFASTS

LOSE UP TO 7LB IN TWO WEEKS!*

(choose 1, all serve 1)

Want to get in shape without giving up your favourite foods?

Slimming World’s eating plan has tasty breakfast bowls to delicious stews and even the odd bit of chocolate. Losing weight was never easier.

POACHED EGGS WITH TOMATOES ON TOAST

MAGIC PANCAKES

BAKED OATS

Spray a baking tray with lowcalorie cooking spray. Add halved cherry tomatoes.

Sprinkle over dried thyme and roast for 25 mins. Toast 2 slices of wholemeal bread (from a small 400g loaf), top with 2 poached eggs, tomatoes and fresh basil.

Mix together 40g plain porridge oats with 1 egg, 150g fat-free vanilla yogurt and a pinch of baking powder. Spray a pan with low-calorie cooking spray and spoon in the mixture to make 3-4 pancakes. Fry on each side until golden brown.

Serve in a stack with fresh blueberries and strawberries.

Mix 40g plain porridge oats with 1 egg and 1 level tbsp sweetener (optional). Heat the oven to 200C/Gas 6 and bake in an ovenproof dish for 20 mins or until golden. Serve with mixed fresh or frozen and defrosted berries and some fat-free natural yogurt.

MULTIGRAIN HOOPS

EGG AND SOLDIERS

FRUIT SALAD

Top 40g multigrain Cheerios with milk of your choice from your daily allowance.

Follow with a bowl of fresh halved strawberries.

Soft-boil 1 or 2 eggs to your liking and serve with 2 slices of wholemeal toast (from a small 400g loaf) cut into soldiers.

Chop fresh fruit such as apple, watermelon, pineapple and peach, and serve with fat-free natural yogurt, fresh mint and a pinch of cinnamon.

TOP TIPS FOR SUCCESS ✱ Trim all visible fat off meat and remove the skin from poultry. ✱ For extra health benefits and filling power, choose wholegrains, such as wholemeal pasta or

bread, or wholegrain rice. ✱ Aim to have between 6 and 8 drinks a day – choose water, sugar-free drinks, tea and coffee. Remember, any milk needs to come from your daily allowance.

✱ The most successful way to maintain long-term weight loss is to join a group or online programme for shared support, inspiration and motivation.

AVOCADO BREAKFAST BOWL Heat the oven to 220C/Gas 7.

Grill lean bacon (all visible fat removed) until crispy, then roughly chop. Transfer to a plate and set aside. Spray a frying pan with low-calorie cooking spray. Add chopped mushrooms and fry until cooked, adding some baby leaf spinach to wilt for the last few mins. Transfer to the plate.

Wipe the pan and stir-fry cherry tomatoes for about 5 mins. Mix together the bacon, mushrooms, spinach, tomatoes and some diced lean ham (all visible fat removed), and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Spoon the mixture into an ovenproof dish, cover with foil and bake for 10 mins.

Remove the foil, crack an egg into the centre and return to the oven uncovered until the egg is cooked. Serve with ¼ avocado, sliced, and sprinkle over fresh chopped chives. >>

LUNCHES (choose 1, all serve 1)

CRUNCHY PASTA SALAD WITH HAM In a saucepan, cook dried pasta shapes according to the pack instructions. Add roughly chopped baby sweetcorn, cook for 1 more min then drain well.

Tip into a mixing bowl and leave to cool.

Fill up with this warming soup and save any leftovers for another day

Meanwhile, mix ½tsp mustard powder and 1tsp gherkin liquid from a jar in a small bowl to make a paste then stir in 100g fat-free natural Greek yogurt, 1tbsp chopped fresh parsley and some seasoning to taste. Stir the yogurt dressing into the cooled pasta and sweetcorn along with roughly chopped lean ham (all visible fat removed), ½ deseeded and diced pepper, 1 thinly sliced celery stick, and drained and chopped gherkins from a jar. Scatter over chopped fresh parsley and serve.

TREATS

Choose up to 2 per day: 125ml white, red or rosé wine; 35ml vodka with diet mixer; 1 level tbsp reduced-fat peanut butter with apple slices; 30g pack sweet rice cakes; 25g fruitcake; 1 chocolate-coated rice cake; 25g wasabi peas; 25g dark chocolate; 6 sugarfree boiled sweets

CURRIED LENTIL AND SQUASH SOUP WITH TOASTED SPICES Put red split lentils, peeled and deseeded butternut squash chunks, ½tsp ground turmeric, 1tbsp medium curry powder, 1 litre boiling vegetable stock, peeled and grated fresh root ginger, and crushed garlic in a large, deep, non-stick saucepan.

Season, place over a medium heat and bring to a simmer.

Cook for 30 mins, stirring occasionally, until the lentils and squash are soft. Using a stick blender, blitz the soup until around half is smooth and half is textured. Keep warm over a low heat. Place a non-stick pan over a medium heat, then add 1tbsp black or brown mustard seeds, 1tbsp cumin seeds and 1tbsp lightly crushed coriander seeds.

Toast for 2-3 mins, shaking

the pan frequently, until fragrant (the mustard seeds may begin to pop). Tip into a bowl and stir through the juice of 1 lemon and a pinch of salt. Ladle the soup into a bowl and top with the toasted spice mix, chopped green chilli and fresh mint. Save any leftovers for another day.

RICE AND BEAN SALAD Cook dried basmati and wild rice according to the pack instructions, adding drained canned mixed beans and chickpeas for the final 2 mins.

Drain and transfer to a large bowl. Add sliced spring onions, sliced tomatoes, finely sliced chilli and chopped fresh coriander, and stir well.

Drizzle with lemon juice, crumble over 65g reduced-fat feta (from your allowance) and season to taste. Serve with lemon wedges.

healthy eating

CHICKEN AND ROASTED TOMATOES

HALLOUMI AND BABY CORN SKEWERS

Spray a skinless, boneless chicken breast with low-calorie cooking spray and roast for 30 mins, adding halved cherry tomatoes for the last 15 mins.

Leave the chicken and tomatoes to cool. Cook the green beans in a pan of boiling water for 2 mins. Refresh under cold running water. Slice the chicken, mix the ingredients and serve with rocket leaves and 15g sliced drained jalapeño chillies from a jar.

Thread 35g halloumi chunks (from your allowance) onto 2 soaked wooden skewers along with some chopped spring onions, cherry tomatoes and halved baby sweetcorn.

Season lightly and spray with low-calorie cooking spray.

Cook in a non-stick frying pan for a few mins, turning frequently, and serve topped with chopped fresh mint or parsley, salad and lemon wedges to squeeze over.

This quick meal also makes a great packed lunch

GRIDDLED TURKEY WITH YOGURT DRESSING Heat the oven to its lowest setting. Rub ½ crushed garlic clove over a turkey steak, spray with low-calorie cooking spray and fry on each side until cooked through. Cover and place in the oven to keep warm.

Spray a sliced courgette with a little low-calorie cooking spray, add to the pan and cook until tender. Tip into a bowl with spinach. Add broccoli florets to the pan and cook until soft. Add green beans and cook until soft. Tip into the bowl with the courgette and spinach.

Stir in sliced spring onions.

Slice the turkey into strips and serve with the veg. Serve with a lemon wedge and a dressing made by mixing fat-free natural Greek yogurt, crushed garlic and a handful of chopped fresh chives.

SALMON LINGUINE Spray a large frying pan with low-calorie cooking spray and place over a low heat. Add chopped onions, ½tsp drained chopped garlic in vinegar from a jar, and 1tbsp water, cover and cook until soft. Uncover, increase the heat and cook for 1-2 mins or until the excess liquid has evaporated. Meanwhile, cook linguine pasta according to the pack instructions. Add 30ml chicken stock to the onions, bring to a simmer and add drained canned pink salmon, cut into small chunks, drained and chopped asparagus from a jar, 1tbsp chopped fresh parsley and a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Heat gently for 2-3 mins then season to taste. Drain the pasta, add to the salmon mixture, stir in 1tbsp lemon juice and sprinkle with more parsley to serve. >> woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 103

DINNERS (choose 1, all serve 4)

SMOKED HADDOCK AND PEA PIE Low-calorie cooking spray 1 onion, finely sliced 2 garlic cloves, crushed 1 level tbsp cornflour 200ml vegetable stock ¼ head broccoli, cut into small florets 150g frozen peas 2 smoked dyed skinless and boneless haddock fillets (about 240g), cut into chunks Zest and juice of ½ unwaxed lemon 10g fresh flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped 2 x 39g filo pastry sheets 400g runner beans, sliced diagonally, to serve 1 Heat the oven to 200C/ Gas 6. Spray a non-stick pan with low-calorie cooking spray

and place over a medium heat.

Add the onion and fry gently for 5 mins until soft. Add the garlic and cornflour, and season. Stir in the stock and leave the sauce to bubble and thicken for 5-8 mins. Add the broccoli and simmer for 2 mins.

Stir in the peas, haddock, lemon zest and juice, and parsley.

2 Spoon the filling into a 23cm-diameter x 3.5cm-deep pie dish. Scrunch the pastry sheets on top to cover the filling. Spray with low-calorie cooking spray and bake for 15-20 mins, until the fish is cooked through and the pastry is golden.

3 Meanwhile, steam or boil the runner beans for 3-4 mins until tender. Divide the pie between 4 plates and serve with the beans.

Make in small individual dishes if you prefer, then freeze for later

All the family will enjoy these spicy chicken goujons

SPICY CHICKEN GOUJONS AND CHIPS Ready in 1 hr for the chips: 1kg floury potatoes, peeled and cut into 1cm-thick chips Low-calorie cooking spray for the goujons: 50g panko breadcrumbs ¼tsp chilli powder 1tsp garlic granules 1tsp dried thyme 2 medium eggs, beaten 12 skinless and boneless mini chicken fillets (around 400g) A handful of roughly chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley, to serve for the salad and dressing: 100g lamb’s lettuce 1 cucumber, sliced into ribbons ½ bunch spring onions, sliced 4 celery sticks, sliced Juice and zest of 1 lemon 100g fat-free natural fromage frais Juice of ½ lemon 1 small garlic clove, crushed

1 Heat the oven to 200C/ Gas 6. Spread the chips on a non-stick baking tray and spray with low-calorie cooking spray.

Season and bake for 40 mins, turning halfway through.

2 Meanwhile, line a baking tray with baking paper. In a small, shallow bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, chilli powder, garlic granules and thyme, and season. Pour the eggs into a separate shallow bowl.

Dip each chicken fillet into the egg, then into the breadcrumbs to coat. Bake the goujons on the baking tray for the last 20 mins of cooking time.

3 For the dressing, mix together the fromage frais, lemon and garlic in a bowl.

Divide the goujons and chips between 4 plates, scatter over the parsley, then toss the dressing through the salad just before serving.

*SLIMMING WORLD RECOMMENDS A SAFE AND STEADY WEIGHT LOSS OF 1-2LB PER WEEK, BUT YOU MAY LOSE MORE IN YOUR FIRST WEEKS. **PREGNANT WOMEN, THE ELDERLY, BABIES AND TODDLERS ARE ADVISED TO CHOOSE EGGS SHOWING THE BRITISH LION STAMP IF EATING RAW OR PARTIALLY COOKED EGGS.

Ready in 50 mins

healthy eating 100g fat-free natural Greek yogurt

PORK GOULASH Ready in 40 mins Low-calorie cooking spray 2 red onions, finely sliced 3 red peppers, deseeded and cut into large chunks 250g chestnut mushrooms, halved or quartered 3 raw beetroot, peeled and cut into chunks 1tbsp smoked paprika 400g can chopped tomatoes 20g fresh dill, finely chopped 450g pork tenderloin, all visible fat removed, cut into chunks

HOMITY PIE Ready in 1 hr 1kg floury potatoes, peeled and cut into small chunks 3tbsp plain quark Low-calorie cooking spray 2 medium onions, chopped 1tsp dried thyme 2 large leeks, thinly sliced 6 garlic cloves, crushed 4tbsp fresh parsley, plus extra 2 medium eggs, beaten Âźtsp freshly grated nutmeg 75g reduced-fat Cheddar

1 Spray a large, lidded, nonstick frying pan with low-calorie cooking spray and place over a medium-high heat. When hot, add the onions, peppers, mushrooms and beetroot with a splash of water, and season.

Cover and cook for 10 mins, stirring occasionally.

2 Stir through the paprika and cook for 1 min. Add the tomatoes, half a can of water, half the dill and the pork.

Season again and reduce the heat to a simmer for 15 mins, covering halfway, until the beetroot is tender, the pork is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.

3 Ladle the goulash into 4 bowls. Serve topped with a dollop of fat-free natural Greek yogurt, the remaining dill and a twist of black pepper. cheese, grated Vegetables, to serve

BEEF STEW WITH CELERIAC AND BUTTER BEAN MASH

1 Heat the oven to 220C/Gas 7. Boil the potatoes for 15 mins or until tender. Drain, return to the pan and mash until smooth. Beat in the quark.

2 Spray a non-stick pan with lowcalorie cooking spray, add the onions, thyme and 3tbsp water, cover and cook over a low heat for 15 mins. Stir in the leeks and garlic, cover again and cook for 5 mins. Uncover the pan, increase the heat and cook for 5 mins or until all the liquid has evaporated.

3 Stir the onion and leek mix into the mash along with the parsley, eggs, nutmeg, 25g cheese and a little seasoning.

Spoon the mixture into a deep 1.5 litre ovenproof dish, sprinkle with the remaining cheese and bake for 25-30 mins. Scatter over the extra parsley and serve hot with the vegetables.

Low-calorie cooking spray 2 onions, finely sliced 2 leeks, finely sliced 200g button mushrooms 4 carrots, sliced 2 garlic cloves, crushed 500g lean braising steak, all visible fat removed, diced 800ml beef stock 2tbsp red wine vinegar 2tsp Marmite, or other yeast extract 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary 1 sweetheart cabbage, shredded for the mash: 1 large celeriac (about 800g), peeled and chopped 1 vegetable stock cube 400g can butter beans, drained and rinsed 1 garlic clove, crushed 2tbsp fat-free natural Greek yogurt 1 egg yolk**

Ready in 3 hrs

1 Spray a large flameproof casserole dish with lowcalorie cooking spray and add the onions and leeks. Fry for 5 mins, then add a splash of water. Add the mushrooms and carrots, and fry for 5 mins.

Stir in the garlic and beef, then add the stock, vinegar, Marmite and rosemary.

2 Bring to the boil, then gently simmer for 2 hrs 30 mins until the beef is tender.

3 When the stew has 20 mins to go, put the celeriac in a large pan and cover with boiling water. Add the stock cube and simmer for 20 mins.

4 Drain, then return to the pan with the butter beans, garlic and yogurt. Mash until well combined, then season and beat in the egg yolk.

Steam or boil the cabbage for 2-3 mins, then drain if boiling. Serve the stew with the mash and cabbage. >> woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 105

healthy eating CHICKPEA CURRY WITH SPINACH AND EGGS Low-calorie cooking spray 2tsp cumin seeds 1tbsp black mustard seeds 4tsp ground coriander 2tsp turmeric ½tsp cayenne pepper 4 large garlic cloves, crushed 1 medium-hot red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped 2 x 400g cans chopped tomatoes 2 x 400g cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed Juice of 1 small lemon 500g baby leaf spinach 4 large eggs Chopped fresh coriander, to serve

1 Spray a non-stick frying pan with low-calorie cooking spray and place over a low heat. Add all the spices, the garlic, chilli and 100ml boiling water, and cook gently for 1 min, stirring.

2 Add the tomatoes, chickpeas, lemon juice, 200ml boiling water and salt to taste, and simmer for 15 mins. Add half the spinach to the pan, cover and cook until it has wilted down, then repeat with the remaining spinach (the spinach will release water and loosen the mixture nicely).

3 Uncover, then make dips in the mixture and crack in the eggs. Cover the pan again and simmer for 5 mins or until the whites are set and the yolks are cooked to your liking. Scatter over the coriander to serve.

BUBBLE AND SQUEAK CAKES Ready in 50 mins 800g floury potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks 2tsp mustard powder 4 medium eggs, plus 2 medium egg yolks 200g spring greens, finely shredded 5 spring onions, finely sliced 25g fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped, plus extra to serve Low-calorie cooking spray 250g chestnut mushrooms, halved or quartered 250g tomatoes, halved 2 x 415g cans baked beans

Save £15

1 Heat oven to 200C/Gas 6.

Boil the potatoes for 12-15 mins. Drain, then return to the pan. Season and mash with the mustard and egg yolks.

2 Boil the spring greens for 3 mins, drain well and pat dry.

Mix the mash, spring greens, spring onions and parsley.

Shape into 8 cakes.

3 Place the cakes on a non-stick baking tray. Spray with low-calorie cooking spray and cook for 30 mins.

After 20 mins, heat a non-stick frying pan and add the mushrooms and tomatoes, and cook until softened.

4 Meanwhile, heat the beans until hot. Spray a non-stick frying pan with low-calorie cooking spray and fry the eggs until cooked.

5 Divide the bubble and squeak cakes, mushrooms, tomatoes, beans and eggs between 4 plates. Scatter with the remaining parsley.

Discounted membership to Slimming World Online

Save £15/€25 when you join Slimming World Online with this exclusive discount***. If you can’t make a Slimming World group or there isn’t one nearby, or if you’d prefer to lose weight with web-based support, then Slimming World Online could be the perfect way for you to slim. It has all the tools you need to lose weight successfully and stay on track, including a weight-loss planner, motivational tips and an inspirational online community. Visit slimmingworld.co.uk/womanandhome before midnight on 11 February 2020 and enter voucher code WOMANANDHOME2020 to save £15/€25.

***FULL TERMS AND CONDITIONS CAN BE VIEWED AT SLIMMINGWORLD.CO.UK/WOMANANDHOME. © SLIMMING WORLD 2020. SLIMMING WORLD AND FREE FOOD ARE TRADEMARKS OF MILES-BRAMWELL EXECUTIVE SERVICES OPERATING AS SLIMMING WORLD. PHOTOS: SLIMMING WORLD/IMAGE FEATURE SLIMMING WORLD/GARETH MORGANS, TOBY SCOTT, ALEX LUCK, KATE WHITAKER, MAJA SMEND, WILL HEAP

Ready in 30 mins

travel ................................................

OFFERS

Lake Como, St Moritz & the Bernina Express

Lake Garda, Venice & Verona

8 days from £819PP

This tour is a wonderful blend of some of the finest sights in northern Italy.

See the snow-capped Dolomites, St Mark’s Basilica and Verona, the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.

On this wonderfully varied tour we explore Lake Como, one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, plus some stunning icons of northern Italy and Switzerland.

 Take a lake cruise to beautiful Bellagio on Lake Como  Enjoy a full-day visit to the chic resort of St Moritz

So much included  3 guided tours and 5 visits  Experienced tour manager  Return regional flights and hotel transfers

8 days’ half-board from £699PP

 Explore Venice, the medieval world’s richest city, with a local guide  Marvel at the breathtaking alpine scenery of the Dolomites on a full-day tour

So much included  4-star accommodation  Daily breakfast and dinner Stays at the Grand Hotel Menaggio are on a bed-and-breakfast basis

 3 guided tours and 1 visit  Experienced tour manager  Return regional flights and hotel transfers

 3-star to 4-star superior accommodation  Daily breakfast and dinner

6th tour with Riviera Travel and we have never been disappointed. The tours were excellent ... our guide Marella “wasOurlovely and so very knowledgeable. Would definitely recommend this tour. ”

Mrs Etherington – Lake Como, St Moritz & the Bernina Express

Pompeii, Capri & the Bay of Naples

Puglia, Lecce & Vieste: Undiscovered Italy

8 days from £729PP

8 days from £899PP

The Sorrento peninsula and the Bay of Naples is simply one of the most beautiful corners of Europe, with its outstanding scenery, tranquillity and sights.

You will see some of the most fascinating cities, villages, unusual sights and stunning scenery that you will find anywhere, and it remains genuinely unspoilt.

 Explore the amazingly preserved Roman town of Herculaneum

 Discover Lecce, the ‘Florence of the South’, and its many architectural gems

 Delve deeper into the mysteries of Pompeii on a guided tour

 Enjoy a guided tour of medieval Matera and its astonishing cave village

So much included

So much included  4 guided tours and 2 visits  Experienced tour manager  Return regional flights and hotel transfers

 3-star to 4-star superior hotels  Daily breakfast and dinner Stays at Hotel Mediterraneo and La Badia are on a bed-and-breakfast basis

 4 guided tours and 2 visits  Experienced tour manager  Return regional flights and hotel transfers

 4-star accommodation  Daily breakfast , 1 lunch and 6 dinners

Call to book or for a free brochure 01283 742348 or visit wahriviera.co.uk TERMS & CONDITIONS: Additional entrance costs may apply. Prices are per person, based on two sharing and subject to finite availability. Images used in conjunction with Riviera Travel. Offer operated by and subject to the booking conditions of Riviera Travel Ltd, ABTA V4744, ATOL 3430, a company wholly independent of Woman and Home, published by TI Media Limited. Prices correct at time of going to print.

GET YOUR HUNGER under control Understanding the science of satiety – or feeling full – is the key to getting to your perfect size and staying there

S

tarting 2020 on a health kick? You’re not the only one. As the new decade commences, 40%* of Brits will embark on a diet, yet half will have quit their new regime within seven days**. Why? Despite best intentions, that overwhelming sensation when hunger strikes is often enough to destroy even the strongest willpower. ‘Civilisation, as the saying goes, is only two meals away from anarchy,’ says author Dr Michael Mosley. ‘Feeling hungry is one of the most powerful stressors that exists, so it’s no wonder so many people don’t make it past the first few weeks on a diet.’

OUR EXPERTS

DR SALLY NORTON is an NHS health and weightloss consultant surgeon; vavista.com/wellness DR MICHAEL MOSLEY is author of The Fast 800, an innovative approach to weight-loss and healthy living; thefast800.com DR JACQUIE LAVIN is Head of Nutrition and Research at weight-loss programme Slimming World; slimmingworld.co.uk

healthy eating

change your mindset

food as we do, which ✱ DON’T ALWAYS FIGHT means so many of us THE FAT fail to tune into our ‘Far from being true hunger signals.’ a cause of weight So, how can you ‘Don’t be scared of feeling gain, “good” tell if you’re truly hunger,’ says Dr Norton. fats that are rich in hungry, when your ‘Enjoy the feeling from time mono- and polybody needs food to time – it makes the unsaturates curb the for fuel? ‘If you’re next meal taste even appetite, slow the rate really hungry,’ says better.’ the stomach empties and Dr Norton, ‘you will be so delay the point at which it satisfied by a healthy meal, such signals for more food,’ says Dr Mosley. as vegetables, fish and wholegrain rice.

‘Choose olive oil, nuts and oily fish.’

If not, you’ll just want sugary, fatty foods that trigger feel-good receptors in the ✱ FILL UP ON FIBRE brain, and these urges will occur even ‘Fibre induces release of a chemical after you’ve eaten a hearty meal.’ called “PYY”, which reduces appetite,’ The easiest way to control hunger is ✱ WHY HUNGER STRIKES says Dr Mosley. ‘Pile your plate with to eat the right foods, the right way. ‘Our That growling, gut-wrenching feeling fresh vegetables (especially greens), environment pushes us towards obesity; of hunger happens when your stomach unprocessed grains and legumes.’ science can pull us back,’ says Dr Mosley. is empty, causing ghrelin, the ‘hunger ‘Knowing how to feel fuller for longer is ✱ EAT MORE PROTEIN, hormone’ produced in your essential to successful weight loss.’

AND EAT IT FIRST stomach, to stimulate the Here’s what helps…

‘Moderately increasing protein (such as appetite centre in the ✱ STAY lean meat or eggs) in your diet can help brain. However, levels HYDRATED you feel more satisfied,’ says Dr Mosley. of ghrelin can be ‘When you’re not ‘Eating protein at the first meal of the day influenced by other Foods that take longer to digest getting enough raises levels of the amino acid tyrosine, factors, such as lack keep you feeling full for longer. water, you’ll be which will help stave off sugar cravings.’ of sleep or your ‘You could consume the juice of sluggish, lethargic, emotional state. ✱ DITCH JUNK FOOD six oranges in seconds, whereas and most likely In fact, a third of ‘Processed foods give you a rapid sugar eating six oranges would take mistake thirst for women say they feel high, followed by a slump, which will have longer and trigger signals to hunger,’ explains hungry when they are you reaching for more,’ says Dr Norton. help you feel full,’ says Dr Mosley. ‘Drinking actually bored***.

‘When you’re out and about, take a Dr Lavin. plenty of water can help ‘Feeling hungry may packed lunch,’ adds Dr Mosley. you feel full, so stay hydrated.’ just be heightened emotions or stress setting off cravings for sugary foods,’ says Dr Norton. Unsure? Keeping a food and mood diary, where you record everything you eat and drink, together Foods that help satiety, the suppression of hunger for a period after eating a with how you feel for a week, can help meal, can influence how soon and how much you next eat… you see if certain emotions or actions ✱ Choose lower been actively involved trigger it. Once you’ve identified any links, are easy to consume energy dense food. in this research, and you can plan strategies that don’t involve in large quantities ‘Foods that have fewer there’s robust evidence eating for dealing with these emotions, because they are dried. calories per gram, to demonstrate this.’ such as exercise or rewarding yourself You could be eating such as poultry, fish, ✱ Consider water with something that isn’t food. a similar amount of pulses, pasta, rice content. ‘This bulks out calories but the whole ✱ EATING OUT OF HABIT? and potatoes, enable foods without adding potatoes will keep you Another reason you could think you’re people to consume calories,’ says Dr Lavin. fuller for much longer.’ hungry when you’re not is down to a larger volume of ‘Boiled potatoes, for ✱ Other foods to routine. ‘Your brain may be saying you’re food, which helps example, with a high fill you up: Eggs, hungry because it’s lunchtime – whether satisfy appetite while water content, are wholemeal bread, or not you’re truly hungry,’ says Dr reducing overall calorie much more voluminous carrots, apples, berries, Norton. ‘But our bodies weren’t designed intake,’ says Dr Lavin. and therefore filling edamame beans to be fed constantly – our cave-dwelling ‘Slimming World has than crisps, which and Greek yogurt. ancestors didn’t have instant access to

WORDS: FAYE M SMITH. PHOTOS: GETTY IMAGES. *RESEARCH BY VOUCHERCODES.CO.UK. **STUDY BY HERMESETAS. ***STUDY BY GRAZE

Finding the root cause of your hunger can go a long way towards controlling it. But there is a catch. ‘Feeling hungry comes from many different stimuli,’ says Dr Sally Norton, ‘which means there are multiple things you have to tackle to quell that feeling.’

The good news? It seems that experts agree that satiety (feeling satisfied by food) is key to long-term slimming success, which is why this is at the heart of so many weight-loss plans. ‘The feeling of satiety occurs due to a combination of signals in the body that begin when a food or drink is consumed, and continue as it enters the gut and is digested and absorbed,’ says Dr Jacquie Lavin.

Did you know?

HOW TO FEEL FULL FOR LONGER

woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 109

LOVE your

WORKOUT

Choosing the right exercise is crucial for getting motivated. Here’s how

M

ore than 20 million people in the UK are physically inactive*. One of the main reasons is that many just don’t find exercise enjoyable. Sound familiar? Apparently it’s because we haven’t found a workout we love.

Once we do, working out won’t feel like a chore. So why not try something new this year to boost enthusiasm and your body – after all, sticking to the same routine can hinder results.

UPGRADE YOUR WORKOUT Want to push your practice further? Yoga expert Katarina Rayburn recommends trying vinyasa, yogasana or rocket yoga.

‘These styles will get your heart rate up, burning more calories,’ she says.

HIIT

This is for you if… you want to shed pounds but you’re short on time.

WHY SHOULD I TRY IT? HIIT (high intensity interval training) is known for its fast-paced circuits. Sounds scary? Don’t worry, you can go at your This is for you if… you are own pace, so you start slow and build looking to firm up. up. Plus, according to a study at the WHY SHOULD I TRY IT? University of Turku in Finland, nothing Thought yoga couldn’t whip you into dials up those happy hormones like shape? Think again. Even a sun a HIIT session. ‘The release of salutation can tighten and endorphins trigger a happy tone your whole body in feeling in your body and mind, is the number of just four weeks. And if you giving you the opportunity hours after a HIIT constantly repeat it, it has to re-energise,’ says personal workout that your a mild aerobic benefit too. trainer Dominik Rzadowski. body continues to You’ll probably feel more And thanks to its fast and burn calories peaceful than pumped furious nature, you can burn for. by the end, so it’s great fat, increase endurance and for reducing stress levels. improve stamina in just 15 minutes.

HOW CAN I GET INVOLVED? HOW CAN I GET INVOLVED? Try Caroline Sandry’s Yoga Take your pick from these fresh For Beginners on YouTube. twists on fast fitness:

YOGA

24

110 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

LES MILLS GRIT STRENGTH (lesmills.com) This 30-minute workout is designed to improve strength and build lean muscle. The class uses barbells and bodyweight exercises to blast all the major muscle groups.

PHIIT (Pilates High Intensity Interval Training) Classes use Reformer Pilates machines – a platform you sit, kneel or stand on that moves back and forth. Resistance is created by the exerciser’s body weight. Twenty seconds of intense activity is followed by 10 seconds of rest.

H.E.A.T (High Energy Athletic Training) This class does what it says on the tin, with 20 minutes of aerobic exercise, a segment focused on strength, and finally the power phase, which fatigues muscles with sprints and speed work.

health is the new wealth

SWIMMING

This is for you if… you want an all-body workout.

WHY SHOULD I TRY IT? With its cardio-boosting benefits, ability to burn calories and blitz fat without being harsh on your joints, and targeting every muscle in your body, it’s a sure-fire winner.

HOW CAN I GET INVOLVED? Download these apps before you dive in: ✱ Speedo On (free, iOS and Android).

Log swims, keep track of distance covered, set goals and connect with friends for a little healthy competition.

Also use it to find your nearest pool. ✱ Just Swim App (free, iOS and Android, swimming.org). Get access to workouts, including ‘get toned’ for swimmers who want to stay trim, and ‘competitive’ for those who can put in four or more sessions a week.

UPGRADE YOUR WORKOUT ✱ Mix up your swimming strokes to target different muscle groups. ✱ Use hand paddles. They have a much bigger surface area than your hands, so they create more resistance through the water. ✱ At the end of each length, pull yourself out of the pool, before diving back in. >>

health is the new wealth

WALKING

RUNNING

This is for you if… you This is for you if... you want to get fit for free. want to boost your WHY SHOULD I TRY IT? heart health.

It burns 400 calories an hour (that’s over WHY SHOULD I TRY IT? eight Jaffa Cakes, in case you were As well as boosting cardio wondering!), melts fat, tones your legs, fitness and toning your legs bum and tum, and strengthens your and tum, it can also zap heart. Plus, it doesn’t cost a penny.

400 cals in just 30 minutes.

What’s not to love?!

It’s free to do any time, HOW CAN I GET INVOLVED? anywhere, so you can Lace up and head outdoors. But if always fit it into your busy schedule. Plus, you want motivation and guidance, try these apps: running up to 20 ✱ World Walking (Free, miles a week could iOS and Android). Pick help you live is the amount a famous route, such longer, says a of muscles as America’s Route 66, study by the you use every and walk that number University of time you take of steps to complete it.

South Carolina. a step. ✱ Strava (Free, iOS and HOW CAN Android). Struggling to spur I GET INVOLVED? yourself on? Compete with other ‘Start running three times local users over a given route to boost a week, but be prepared New runners your ranking. Plus, track your own to slow down or walk if should start progress and get notified when you you’re just starting to build slowly and build clock a personal best. up your fitness levels,’ up gradually says running coach Nick ✱ ViewRanger (Free, iOS and Android).

– embrace the Head off the beaten track with tried-andAnderson. If you’re a run/walk method tested routes. It also allows you to see complete newbie, celebrity your location even when you lose signal. runner Nell McAndrew UPGRADE YOUR WORKOUT recommends alternating Aim to hit 60-70% of your max heart rate. walking with running for 30 minutes.

‘It will help you burn the most fat when ‘Run for a minute to every four minutes walking,’ says personal trainer Scott walked. This may seem slow, but it’s This is for you if… you want to Laidler. To work out your max levels, a proven way to slowly build strength get stronger. subtract your age from 220. Then use an and endurance, and stay injury-free.’

WHY SHOULD I TRY IT? activity tracker or smart watch (with an And why not try the NHS Couch to It’s often neglected, but strength in-built heart rate tracker) to measure 5K app (free, iOS and Android)? A virtual or resistance training is key to your your heart rate as you exercise. coach trains complete weekly workout. It not only builds beginners on a THAT’S lean muscle to help shape and walk-run programme CLEVER! tone your body, it also improves until they can run sleep one You’ll bone density and helps you non-stop for 5km.

TRY OUR GET-FIT-FOR-FREE TIPS extra minute a torch calories long after you’ve UPGRADE night for every ✱ Use food tins instead of dumbbells finished your workout.

YOUR WORKOUT mile you complete for weights.

HOW CAN I GET INVOLVED? If you keep running each week. ✱ Make use of free exercise videos.

This is an ideal workout to do the same distance, ✱ Skip the lift and take the stairs. from the comfort of your own home. over the same route, at ✱ Make your commute a part of Try out resistance bands, dumbbells the same pace, you’ll soon hit your weekly workout – switch a train and even body weight exercises to a plateau. ‘Variety is key,’ says running or car for two wheels or two legs. build strength and power. coach Karen Weir. ‘Running three times ✱ Replace your desk chair with a UPGRADE YOUR WORKOUT a week? Make one a longer, slower run; large exercise ball.

Switch between adding reps and one a steady, fun run; and one where you ✱ Stand whenever you can. adding weight for a total body routine. focus mostly on speed intervals or hills.’

200

NO GYM? NO PROBLEM

112 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

WORDS: NATALIA LUBOMIRSKI. PHOTOS: GETTY IMAGES/CAIAIMAGE, GETTY IMAGES/ISTOCKPHOTO. *ACCORDING TO THE BRITISH HEART FOUNDATION

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health report

DRY JANUARY?

bring it on!

With midlife women in the news for their drinking, starting 2020 with an alcohol-free month could be the best resolution you make for your health

J

anuary brings a desire to press the reset button, with most of us ready to scale back on food and drink, and make some positive health tweaks for the year ahead. It’s time to rev up a fitness plan, start that diet or prioritise your sleep – but if cutting back on alcohol is what you really need this month, it might be worth jumping on the Dry January bandwagon.

Official health guidelines advise that we drink no more than 14 units of alcohol, spread over the course of a week. Despite this recommendation, midlifers are the age group most likely to regularly exceed it – with disturbing health consequences.

The latest national statistics on drinking in the UK show that an estimated 1.2 million

hospital admissions are related to alcohol consumption, and alcohol-specific deaths among 55-59-year-old women are the highest they’ve been for 10 years.

‘The fact is that the more alcohol we drink, the greater the risks to our health,’ says Dr Sarah Jarvis, GP and medical adviser to Drinkaware. But there are steps that people of all ages can take to reduce alcohol-related harm, and evidence suggests that even small reductions on your intake can make a big difference.

TAKE A BOOZE BREAK

Dry January is the month-long, alcoholfree challenge that gives you a solid hook so you can look at your current drinking habits, explains Lauren Booker, alcohol

consultant at Alcohol Change UK. ‘It’s cold and dark so you may be going out less anyway. It’s likely you’ll want to save money, and it’s also resolution time, so is the ideal opportunity to reset your relationship with alcohol and make some positive changes,’ she says. And there are plenty of reasons for doing so.

BODY BENEFITS

According to research by the University of Sussex, taking just a month off from drinking can lower blood pressure, minimise the risk of diabetes, lower cholesterol, and reduce levels of cancerrelated proteins in the blood. You’re also likely to have more energy and lose weight. ‘You’ll both decrease your calorie intake and be less likely to indulge in post-alcohol eating,’ adds Lauren.

MIND MATTERS

Sussex psychologist Dr Richard de Visser, who led the study on Dry January, found that over 80% of people felt more in control of their drinking and experienced a sense of real achievement having taken a break from it. You can look forward to a sharper mind, reduced anxiety and an improved mood. >> woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 115

health report don’t have to throw everything away, but you could stash it in the shed or put it in the attic while you’re doing Dry January,’ suggests Lauren.

✱ SHARE YOUR GOALS Let your family and friends know your aims. ‘Peer pressure is a big obstacle, so take out the ringleader early,’ says Lauren. ‘If there’s someone who always encourages you to drink, have a faceto-face conversation – tell them what you’re doing and why, and how important it is that you have their support.’

✱ OVERCOME HURDLES

The key to cutting out alcohol lies in a fail-safe plan. Follow these steps to success:

✱ ADJUST YOUR MINDSET Don’t begin the month with the belief that you’re denying yourself. ‘Instead, think about how well you’re going to feel and concentrate on your wellbeing.

Try to focus on the positives rather than the negatives,’ says Lauren.

✱ SET YOUR INTENTIONS Pin down the changes you’d like to make.

You might decide to ditch drinking for the whole 31 days, or make a conscious effort

3 OF THE BEST… no-booze tipples ✱ Stryyk Not Gin, £18, stryyk.com A zero-proof spirit alternative made with juniper, rosemary and basil. ✱ Lucky Saint, £2, sainsburys.co.uk A non-alcoholic craft beer brewed from Bavarian barley – lager lovers won’t notice the difference. ✱ Botonique, £7.99, ocado.com Try this dry, sparkling botanical soft drink instead of wine.

116 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

to just drink less. ‘There are many options for cutting down and even if you don’t give up drinking completely, you’ll still notice that you feel better the morning after,’ says Lauren. ‘You might drink on fewer days, have drinks with a lower alcohol content, or not drink as many units in one sitting. You can make simple switches, such as choosing wine spritzers; you’ll have the same amount of drinks but you’re consuming less alcohol,’ she offers.

Use the Dry January app so that you don’t feel alone on your alcohol-free mission. Track your units, monitor the money and calories you’ve saved by not drinking, and stay motivated by your dry streaks – in January and beyond. It’s free from the App Store and Google Play.

✱ CLEAR THE DECKS

✱ DON’T HIBERNATE

If alcohol is sat in the fridge or on the sideboard, it’s easy to crumble when you crave a drink – so make it more difficult to access. ‘You

✱ STAY ON TRACK

Go out and have a good time, but do it without alcohol. ‘It’s a skill that some of us haven’t exercised for many years.

You have to remember how to be in a crowd without a bit of Dutch courage.

Once you master it, though, you’ll be proud in the knowledge you can still have fun without alcohol,’ says Lauren.

✱ LOOK AHEAD Dry January only lasts for a month, but changing how you drink for 31 days inspires you to think about the future, with many people choosing to have booze breaks going forward. ‘The simple act of taking a month off alcohol helps people drink less in the long-term – by August, people are reporting one extra dry day per week,’ says Dr de Visser.

WORDS: ALI HORSFALL. PHOTOS: GETTY IMAGES, GETTY IMAGES/CULTURA RF

HOW TO DO DRY JANUARY

Jot down your drinking triggers to preempt potential wobbles. Do you pour a glass of wine after a challenging day?

Is booze your reward for accomplishing a task? Or do you use alcohol as a crutch to help you celebrate and let your hair down? ‘If you establish the reasons why you drink, you can find a way around them,’ advises Lauren. ‘If you tend to drink more when you’re stressed, you can look into other ways to deal with pressure.’

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THIS MONTH

Your HEALTH ✱ Quitting smoking for good ✱ Exercising with osteoporosis ✱ Healing cracked lips

Got a medical problem or need advice? Ask GP Dr Rosemary Leonard I’ve smoked since I was 17, and have just been told I have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). I’ve tried umpteen times to stop, but now I really have to.

I’d like to give vaping a try, but I’m concerned it’s just as dangerous as smoking. What’s your view?

A

The danger from cigarettes comes from the tar in tobacco, which contains at least 70 chemicals known to cause cancer.

Tar also accumulates inside the lungs, where it causes permanent inflammation, leading to breathlessness and wheezing, the signs of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Nicotine, though very addictive, is relatively

harmless. E-cigarettes work by heating a liquid that contains nicotine, and typically propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerine, plus flavourings.

Though there have been some serious health effects reported in the USA with vaping, they have all involved extra ingredients, including cannabis oil, not allowed in the UK. E-cigarettes are tightly regulated in the UK for safety and quality. This doesn’t mean they’re completely safe, but as they don’t contain tar, they’re 95% safer than smoking. There’s also evidence that vaping helps smokers to quit. Lots of ex-smokers have failed many times before finally giving up, so have another go, and try vaping if you think it will help.

You’ll find information and support on the NHS One You website, including a personal quit plan for your phone.

FACT OR FICTION?

CAN I STOP MY HICCUPS BY DRINKING WATER OUT OF THE WRONG SIDE OF A GLASS? Probably not! When you hiccup, the diaphragm – the muscle separating the chest from the abdomen, suddenly contracts, forcing air upwards. Eating too much, too fast, or swallowing air, as well as excess drinking and smoking, can cause hiccups, as can sudden excitement, stress or even a change in temperature. I can’t find any proper research on common remedies, but when I tried to drink from the wrong side of a glass, I ended with water 118 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

down my front and a fit of the giggles – although my hiccups did subside.

Other popular remedies are biting on a lemon, sipping vinegar or pulling your knees up to your chest and leaning forwards, which work for some people.

Breathing slowly, or breathing into a paper (NOT plastic) bag can also help.

Repeated bouts of hiccups can be due to an underlying medical condition so if you seem to get them more than other people, see your doctor.

I have sore, cracked lips. I use lip balm several times a day, but it doesn’t seem to make any difference. Is it just the cold weather that causes this and, if so, what’s the best way of dealing with it?

A

Repeated exposure to cold wind can dry out your lips, and it’s a natural tendency to lick them to make them feel more comfortable. However, not only does this wipe away any balm on them but, as the saliva evaporates, yet more drying occurs, so make a real effort not to let your tongue touch your lips.

I often see patients in my surgery who are suffering from allergies to perfumes and flavourings contained in balms and lipsticks, causing sore, cracked lips – especially at this time of year when many women have switched to a deeply pigmented red for the festive season.

For daily use I advise using plain petroleum jelly to keep the lips from drying out – keep a little tub on you in your bag all the time.

Fungal infections can also cause painful cracks, especially at the corners of your lips, and can occur in anyone, although those using a steroid preventer inhaler for asthma are more at risk of this problem.

This can be treated with antifungal cream, available from chemists.

Q&A

+ DOCTOR’S ORDERS

IS IT A COLD, FLU OR PNEUMONIA? IF IT’S A COLD… Symptoms include a runny nose, sneezing and sometimes a sore throat. It’s normal to feel under the weather, with maybe a slight temperature, but it’s usually possible to carry on with your normal everyday activities.

Colds are caused by a viral infection, so antibiotics – which only treat bacterial infections – are of no benefit at all. Ease symptoms with decongestants, paracetamol and ibuprofen. Most colds get better in about a week.

PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES

I broke my wrist a few years ago, and was told it was because I had borderline osteoporosis.

It has meant that I’ve been scared to exercise, but since then my weight has crept up, and now, in the new year, I really have to do something about it. What exercise can I safely do to help burn off the calories without risking breaking another bone?

A

Osteoporosis means you have fragile bones and are indeed at increased risk of having a fracture.

But as you have discovered, a sedentary lifestyle can mean gaining weight far too easily, and that’s also bad for your overall health. In fact, having osteoporosis means you should do more exercise, rather than less. Aim to do regular

weight-bearing exercise with impact, which involves your whole body pulling down on your skeleton. Although walking does this to some extent, skipping, racket sports and Highland dancing are even better.

Try to do some muscle-strengthening exercises too, as when your muscles pull on your bones, it also gives your bones work to do. Having stronger muscles also means you will have better balance, which has the added benefit of making you less likely to fall.

Some good examples of this kind of exercise include using light weights or elastic ‘resistance’ bands to work the muscles of your arms, and doing squats or repeatedly getting up from a chair to strengthen your legs. It can be helpful to have instruction on the best way to do these exercises, so ask about classes at your local leisure centre. You can also get a lot more information from the Royal Osteoporosis Society at theros.org.uk

IF IT’S FLU… Symptoms often come on very suddenly, with a high fever, sweating, headaches, and severe muscle aches and pains. Some people have a sore throat and sneezing as well.

If you have flu, carrying out normal activities is impossible – just getting out of bed is a huge effort. Typically, symptoms are severe for two days, then will ease gradually over the course of a week. Flu can sometimes lead to pneumonia.

IF IT’S PNEUMONIA… Symptoms include a high fever, often with sweats and shivers, feeling short of breath, and coughing – a dry cough, or there may be coloured phlegm. Some people also get pain in their chest. It’s more common in people over the age of 65, and those who have an underlying medical condition, such as diabetes, heart disease, and lung conditions such as asthma and COPD. Pneumonia can be caused by both viruses and bacteria, and can be very serious, potentially needing treatment in hospital. woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 119

JANUARY

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Up to €400 of on-board credit per cabin*

We have enjoyed several holidays with Riviera Travel but this “was our first river cruise and we really enjoyed it. The Emily Brontë is a luxurious ship with a wonderful crew. ” Mrs Owen

River Cruise

It’s all included in the price  Spacious and beautifully appointed suites or cabins with hotel-style beds and river views  Exceptional cuisine with full board throughout

Duration

From

Rhine Cruise to Switzerland

8 days

£1,599pp

Rhine & Moselle

8 days

£1,499pp

Rhine, Strasbourg & Heidelberg

8 days

£1,649pp

The Blue Danube

8 days

£1,099pp

Vienna, Bohemia & Treasures of the Danube

8 days

£1,549pp

 Extensive and inclusive touring programmes

Cruise the Heart of Europe

15 days

£2,499pp

 Return flights from a choice of regional airports or standard class reserved seat on Eurostar from London St Pancras (supplements may apply)

Burgundy, the River Rhône & Provence

8 days

£1,549pp

Amsterdam, Kinderdijk & the Dutch Bulbfields

5 days

£899pp

Bruges, Medieval Flanders, Amsterdam & the Dutch Bulbfields

8 days

£1,599pp

 Return rail connections on selected dates and cruises from over 50 regional stations (supplements may apply)

The Seine, Paris & Normandy

8 days

£1,549pp

The Douro, Porto & Salamanca

8 days

£1,449pp

Medieval Germany

8 days

£1,749pp

 The services of an experienced cruise director and concierge

Budapest to The Black Sea – Gems of Eastern Europe

15 days

£2,949pp

The Danube’s Imperial Cities & Yuletide Markets

6 days

£649pp

Enchanting Rhine & Yuletide Markets

5 days

£549pp

Call to book or for a free brochure 01283 742348 or visit wahriviera.co.uk TERMS & CONDITIONS: *The €400 on board credit applies only to the departure dates specified and is based on two people sharing a cabin. Sole occupancy cabins will receive €100 on board credit. The on board credit can be redeemed against all on board purchases, including gratuities. Additional entrance costs may apply. Prices are per person, based on two sharing and subject to finite availability. Images used in conjunction with Riviera Travel. Offer operated by and subject to the booking conditions of Riviera Travel Ltd, ABTA V4744, ATOL 3430, a company wholly independent of Woman and Home, published by TI Media Limited. Prices correct at time of going to print.

FOOD, HOME

&

TRAVEL

If you do one thing this month

GET A CHEAP DEAL

WORDS: LAURA MILLAR. PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES

IF YOU’RE PLANNING A HOLIDAY, HERE’S HOW TO CUT THE COST ✱ Check for January airline sales; they’re often advertised in newspapers, on TV or on posters, but it also pays to check airline websites. ✱ Research from flight finders Opodo (opodo. com) found that, on average, Sunday is the cheapest day of the week to book your flight.

For short-haul and domestic flights, it pays to book around 50 days in advance, while for long-haul flights to the US, the best prices are found booking around 36 days in advance. ✱ Signing up to travel sites with free membership will also bring you advance notice of the best deals and offers. Travelzoo.com sends a weekly email to members, groupon. co.uk has a tab for Holidays under £99, while lastminute.com has daily top travel deals listed for a 24-hour period.

woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 123

HOME EXTERIOR Stewart designed the house to match the fan-shaped plot, and he also project-managed the build.

124 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

home inspiration

GARDEN AREA Stewart landscaped the garden, including laying the patios, building the retaining and installing the decking. The garden planting plan was designed by Cool Gardens.

Design

FOR LIVING

Building their own home from scratch was a great opportunity for Jane and Stewart Gilmour to design one that’s a perfect fit for their lifestyle

S

easoned renovators Jane and Stewart Gilmour were looking around for a new project in the Buckinghamshire town of Beaconsfield. ‘We’ve always loved the area, and have a wide circle of friends and family here,’ says Jane. Then one day, the ideal opportunity turned up out of the blue. ’We’d been looking for a property we could extend significantly or a suitable plot where we could build from scratch,’ says Jane. ‘This house had belonged to an elderly woman and it hadn’t been touched for 50 years. But we loved the quiet location at the end of a cul-de-sac.’ At the time, the couple were living in a smaller house nearby which they’d already extended, but Stewart was eager for a new challenge. ‘He has endless energy,’ says Jane. ‘He would take on another project tomorrow.’

Surveys revealed that the property was very rundown so the couple had to choose whether or not to renovate and rebuild the structure. After much deliberation they decided to >> woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 125

LIVING ROOM The seating has been grouped towards the window, to keep the focus on the garden, and an eclectic mix of framed prints adds colour and visual interest.

The small sofa was bought at Swoon. The steel table lamp was sourced at French Connection Home, and the floral patterned cushions came from Harlequin.

LANDING Sculptural lighting works well with the high ceilings above the double-height living area. The pendant lights came from Moooi.

home inspiration CHIMNEY STACK

KITCHEN: DETAIL

The chimney stack is the central feature of the house and can be seen as soon as guests enter. It can be viewed from three different sides.

The wooden-framed armchair was bought at Swoon.

A feature walls adds a touch of lively colour. Try Mischief intelligent matt emulsion by Little Greene for a similar shade.

The window frame mirror came from Maisons du Monde.

KITCHEN With its high bar area, Jane and Stewart’s kitchen has been designed as a highly social space. The cabinets were sourced at Red Kite Kitchens and the Calabash pendant lighting was bought from Utility Design. The bar stools are from Ikea, upholstered in Mosaic Mulberry matt oilcloth at Only Oilcloths.

demolish the old building and build a new home from scratch. Since this would require a good deal of advance planning, the couple moved into the old house for seven months while meticulous plans were drawn up. It was a memorable experience. ‘The house was small and quite cold,’ says Jane. ‘But we managed to have some fun.’

Stewart has a degree in industrial design and put his skills to good use, drawing up plans for the new house. He also enlisted the help of an architectural firm as the design phase neared completion. ‘Stewart designed the footprint to maximise the space in the plot, which has an unusual fan shape,’ says Jane. ‘The house is tilted diagonally across the plot, with a slightly shorter depth of

lawn at the front. The central feature of the building is a fireplace in the open-plan kitchen, angled in three different directions. The chimney stack has rustic brick cladding and extends up into the next floor. Every inch of space has been dedicated to something useful.’ With the plans finalised and approved, the family decamped to Jane’s parents’ home for a year while the epic job of building the house began.

Stewart took on the role of project manager and also handled various aspects of the build, including working on the brick cladding, landscaping the garden and building the garden decking and children’s playhouse. The house was also designed with all mod cons, such as underfloor >> woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 127

BATHROOM A deep, luxuriant tub creates a focal point in this contemporary bathroom, softened by green foliage. The Skyla freestanding bath from Soak is similar.

MASTER BEDROOM A feature wall of chinoiserie blossom softens the formal modern bedroom furniture. The Mimi wallpaper was sourced at Harlequin. Ikea’s Hemnes two-drawer chest could also work here.

GUEST BEDROOM

128 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

Streamlined modernist furniture is combined with floral wallpaper in this guest bedroom. The wallpaper was bought at Designers Guild. Not On The High Street sells floating bedside shelves.

WORDS: JULIET BENNING. PHOTOS: BRENT DARBY

heating, which comes into its own in winter. ‘It’s incredibly economical and the bills are really low,’ says Jane.

As the house was slowly taking shape, Jane reconnected with a childhood friend called Annabel Smith, who runs her own interior design firm.

Jane was keen to create a colourful interior so she asked Annabel to help her design the scheme. Working together, the two women created numerous mood boards and schemes to help bring the brand-new house to life. An eclectic mix of prints and patterns, shapes and textures has been combined with sculptural lighting and colourful feature walls to create a warm and vibrant interior that epitomises modern country style.

As the Gilmours are an extremely social household, the house lends itself perfectly to entertaining, with its kitchen bar and space that flows into the double-height living room – the ideal place to host guests. Elsewhere, a second sitting room with an open fireplace is used regularly during the darker months, especially during the festive season. ‘We call it the winter sitting room,’ says Jane.

Midnight Moods tufted rug, £669, Mineheart at The Gifted Few Marble disk table lamp, £199, Pols Potten

String ball pendant lights, £54.90 each, MyFaktory

Verena 2-drawer bedside table, £299, Cult Furniture

Nyla coffee table, £99, Made.com

Elkin 3-seater sofa in Matrix Grey £2,200, Habitat

HOW TO GET THE LOOK

COMPILED BY: HOLLY WALSH

Floral cushion, £34, The French Bedroom Company

Aquamarina vase, £50, Sweetpea & Willow

✱ Group seating towards a window to keep the focus on the garden and enhance a sense of living in nature. ✱ Create an optical illusion with geometric wallpaper. ✱ Choose contemporary seating, but accessorise with traditional patterned cushions and cosy throws. ✱ Unite a space with an oversized rug that’s big enough for your furniture to all sit upon.

Papper grey wallpaper, £62 per roll, Sandberg

Knitted pouffe, £39, George Home

7 ways to

ADD VALUE to your home

Whether you’re putting your property on the market or just want to make some improvements, here are our top tips to boost your home’s worth

1

INCREASE YOUR KERB APPEAL

Giving your front door a new lick of paint is a great way to enhance the appearance of your home. Whether you opt to go bold and bright or choose a timeless neutral shade, giving your door a makeover doesn’t have to stop with a new paint shade. Update hardware such as letterboxes, handles and knockers, or give existing ones a good polish.

It’s so important to keep your home secure.

‘With Ring’s suite of affordable, customisable and easy-to-install home security products, you don’t have to compromise style over safety,’ says Dave Ward, European product director, Ring Spotlight battery-powered camera, £199, ring.com

Door painted in Gentle Blue 10year exterior satin, from £17.99 for 750ml, Sandtex

home advice

Alderley kitchen in Bone, from ÂŁ15,000, Kitchen Makers

2

EMBRACE OPENPLAN LIVING

With our kitchens continuing to be the hub of the home, dining rooms can often end up becoming an unloved space that rarely gets used.

But by removing the wall between the two and creating one large, open-plan room, will give you an airy space to cook, eat, entertain and relax. A breakfast bar is a great addition too, as it provides a more casual space for mealtimes.

3

SQUEEZE IN A DOWNSTAIRS LOO

Adding a cloakroom to your home means no more disruptions during bath time, plus it makes it easier for visitors to pop to the loo without trudging through the house. Even the smallest of spaces can be transformed, such as an understairs cupboard or utility room, but be sure to create more of a sense of space by revealing as much floor as possible.

Mount basins, WCs and radiators on the wall, and hang a mirror to make the room seem instantly larger and brighter. >> woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 131

Windsor tier-on-tier shutters, from £561, Hillarys

4

UPDATE YOUR WINDOW TREATMENTS

While net curtains certainly offer privacy and still allow natural light to enter your room, there’s no doubt that they can look dated. A modern alternative is a smart set of shutters, which will still allow you to control both light and privacy levels, as well as reduce external noise, but give your space a streamlined, contemporary feel.

‘White shutters can look great in any home, but coloured shutters create drama and give an amazing dimension to your scheme. If you’re on a tight budget, use them in rooms facing the street, as this will add instant kerb appeal,’ says Mark Lucas, senior product manager at Hillarys

home advice Bouji accent armchair in Grey, £179, Made.com

5

MAKE USE OF LOFT SPACE

Lofts are often stuffed with things that haven’t seen the light of day for decades, making them ripe for renovation. Clear yours of its clutter and turn it into a functional, beautiful space. With a potential to increase the value of your property by up to 20%, the space can be put to almost any use, such as a bedroom, en suite, office or playroom.

COMPILED BY: HOLLY WALSH. PHOTOS: JON DAY PHOTOGRAPHY, TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM. *IF THE ROOM IS OVER 2.5M IN HEIGHT, YOU WILL NEED TO SEEK PLANNING PERMISSION

6

TURN YOUR BEDROOM INTO A BOUDOIR

While most of us spend hours thinking about how to transform our kitchens and living rooms, bedrooms usually end up last on the list. Show yours some love by giving it a smart new look, with a stunning feature wallpaper, a luxurious headboard and sumptuous bedding for that boutique hotel look.

5x3m insulated garden room, £9,220, Waltons

7

ADD AN EXTRA ROOM

If you’ve already extended or converted, or you’re looking for extra space without too much disruption, a garden room can be a speedy, hassle-free alternative to a big build. As a flexible space that can be used as an office, gym, art studio or as an annexe to your home, providing you have the outside space to install one, it’s a relatively straightforward project*. woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 133

FREE £150 AXA ActivePlus voucher* when you join our award‑winning Personal Health plan.

&

Call 0800 202 8210 for more details axappphealthcare.co.uk/womanandhome *The £150 AXA ActivePlus voucher is for new customers only. Full terms and conditions at axappphealthcare.co.uk/womanandhome. TI Media is an introducer appointed representative of AXA PPP healthcare Limited which is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. The Personal Health plan is underwritten by AXA PPP healthcare Limited. Registered in England and Wales number 3148119. Registered office: AXA PPP healthcare, 5 Old Broad Street, London EC2N 1AD. Write to us at: AXA PPP healthcare, Phillips House, Crescent Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 2PL. Lines are open 9am to 7pm weekdays. We may record and/or monitor calls for quality assurance, training and as a record of our conversation. AXA ActivePlus is not regulated by either the Financial Conduct Authority or the Prudential Regulation Authority.

PB73330/10.19

a better world

GREEN made easy Eco expert Lucy Siegle is here to help you do your bit for the environment

Recycle your (sustainable) toothbrush

PHOTOS: GETTY IMAGES, GETTY IMAGES/EYEEM, GETTY IMAGES/ISTOCKPHOTO

Fairtrade Fortnight February marks the beginning of Fairtrade Fortnight (24 February8 March). This worldchanging movement began 26 years ago, offering products – from shampoo to chocolate – that guaranteed producers in developing countries received a fair split of the profits. There are many ways of celebrating, so get involved at fairtrade.org.uk

A couple of years ago, scientists tracked all the plastic that’s ever been used since it gained everyday popularity in the 1950s. It turns out nearly 80% is still with us, in oceans or in landfill.

Wow. That means almost every plastic toothbrush you’ve ever used in your family is still about.

While we work out what to do with the old ones, swap your conventional toothbrush for bamboo. When that comes to the end of its bathroom life, cut off the bristles and put carefully in the bin, as these are still plastic. Use the bamboo base as a plant marker in your garden or window box.

ENDANGERED FOOD

We’ve all heard about extreme weather events linked to climate change, but what’s less well known is that these conditions are resulting in everyday foods being put on an ‘at-risk’ list. Imagine life without fish, chocolate or your morning coffee, all of which are under threat of extinction.

Climate change affects the production of arabica, ie the posh coffee that we’re now super reliant on – or is that just me? So the coffee industry is on a search for climateresilient coffee strains. World Coffee Research, a group of scientists bankrolled by big coffee companies such as Lavazza and Illy, have reported some success and are testing 30 strains of coffee in far-flung fields and forests that might just boost our caffeine levels in the future. Phew!

SMART BUYS, SWAPS AND INVENTIONS PAPER TRAIL House of Hackney has teamed up with Friends of the Earth to donate money from every sale of its PVC-free wallpaper to support the charity’s campaign to double the UK’s tree cover by 2045.

EAU PLEASE! Every time you buy an Ocean Bottle, part of the purchase price goes to Plastic Bank to collect 11.368kg plastic – equivalent to more than 1,000 plastic bottles – from waste hotspots, such as Haiti and Indonesia.

FOR GREAT ZERO-WASTE TIPS

HIT ECO-SNOOZE The Eco Comfort Breathe mattress, from £499, from UK bed manufacturer Silentnight, is foam and chemical free, and made from a fibre that uses waste plastic bottles, diverting 150 per mattress from landfills and oceans.

check out Lauren Singer on trashisfortossers.com

HEALTHY HEARTY

&

Warm yourself from the inside out with these full-ofgoodness recipes that will see you all through the day

warming recipes

Winter bircher muesli with a warming compote This simple dish is full of goodness, and is filling without being too heavy.

SERVES 4 • Ready in 20 mins, plus soaking for the bircher: 200g oats 500ml oat milk 1tsp cinnamon ½tsp vanilla bean paste 50g each hazelnuts and pecans, roughly chopped 1 apple, grated 300ml apple juice 2tbsp chia seeds for the compote: 2 pears, peeled and deseeded 1tsp cinnamon 1 clementine 100ml cloudy apple juice 1 Mix the bircher ingredients in a bowl.

Cover and keep in the fridge overnight.

2 For the compote, chop the pears into chunks and put in a pan. Add the cinnamon then grate in the clementine zest. Remove the peel then chop the fruit and add to the pan along with the apple juice. Cook gently for 5-10 mins until the fruit has broken down slightly.

3 Remove the bircher from the fridge.

Taste and adjust the sweetness with maple syrup or honey, if you like. Add a little oat milk, if you find it too thick.

4 Serve the muesli with the fruit compote and a little natural yogurt on the side.

Per serving: Cals 567, Fat 25g, Sat fat 2.5g, Carbs 67g

TIP Use seasonal fruits and enjoy this recipe all year round

Hearty farro, kale and borlotti bean soup Farro is an ancient grain with amazing health benefits. It’s also low in calories and low fat, so is perfect for diet season.

SERVES 6 • Ready in 1 hr 20 mins, plus soaking 250g dried borlotti beans 5 sage leaves 4 garlic cloves, left whole 8 tomatoes, chopped 2tbsp olive oil 1 large onion, 1 large carrot and 2 celery sticks, chopped 200g farro 500ml vegetable stock 150g kale, shredded extra virgin olive oil 1 Soak the beans in plenty of cold water for at least 8 hrs. Drain, rinse, then put in a pan and cover with water.

Add the sage, garlic and 2 tomatoes, and bring to the boil. Cover and simmer for 1 hr until the beans are

tender but keep their shape.

2 In a large pan, heat the oil and fry the onion, carrot and celery for 15 mins until very soft. Add the farro, stock and remaining tomatoes, and bring to the boil. Simmer for 20 mins.

3 Remove the sage and garlic from the pan of beans then, using a potato masher, crush about half the beans.

4 Add all the beans and their liquid to the farro with the kale and simmer for a few mins. Season and drizzle with oil. Serve with rustic bread on the side.

Per serving: Cals 300, Fat 14g, Sat fat 6g, Carbs 25g >>

TIP You could also add chopped smoked bacon with the onion woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 137

warming recipes

Kedgeree with spicy soft-boiled eggs On frosty mornings, kedgeree is a great way to start the day. Here, the eggs have a spicy, nutty coating.

zest of 1 lime 1tbsp coconut oil

SERVES 6 • Ready in 45 mins 250g basmati rice 4 large eggs 2 fresh bay leaves 2 lemons, plus extra wedges to serve 500g natural/undyed smoked haddock fillets, skin and bones removed drizzle of olive oil and a knob of butter, for frying 2 onions, finely sliced large bunch of coriander, leaves picked and stalks finely chopped 1 green chilli, sliced 1tbsp turmeric 2 heaped tbsp Madras curry paste 2tbsp mango chutney for the egg coating: 1tbsp coriander seeds 1tsp cumin seeds ½tsp turmeric 25g each hazelnuts and cashew nuts

138 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

1 Bring 2 large pans of salted water to the boil. Rinse the rice in a sieve to remove the starch, then add to one of the pans and cook for 6 mins less than indicated on the pack. Put the eggs and bay leaves in the other pan. Squeeze in the juice of 1 lemon and add a squeezed lemon half. Add the haddock and simmer for about 5 mins until the flesh is opaque and flaking apart.

2 Meanwhile, put the olive oil and butter in a large frying pan and fry the onions for a few mins. Add the coriander stalks and chilli, and cook for 10 mins, stirring occasionally. Stir in the turmeric and season well.

3 Drain the rice and set aside. Lift the haddock out of the other pan and onto a plate, then drain the eggs and rinse under cold water in a bowl. Once cool enough to handle, lightly crack the shells and return them to the bowl of water.

4 Stir the curry paste and chutney through the onions and fry for 5 more mins. Take off the heat, add the rice and mix through.

5 Chop most of the coriander leaves and add them to the frying pan with the juice of the remaining lemon. Flake in the fish and gently fold it all together. Set the pan on a low heat and cook the rice for 5 mins.

6 For the egg coating, in a small blender, whizz the coriander and cumin seeds, turmeric, nuts and lime zest, then tip onto a plate. Peel the eggs and pour the coconut oil on a small plate. Roll the eggs in the oil, then in the spice and nut mixture until well coated.

7 Slice the eggs in half and dot around the pan. Scatter the rest of the coriander over and serve the kedgeree with lemon wedges.

Per serving: Cals 467, Fat 20g, Sat fat 7.5g, Carbs 40g >>

TIP For perfect soft-boiled eggs, use week-old eggs rather than fresh

warming recipes

Polish chicken with sauerkraut

Sauerkraut is almost all fibre, which helps you feel fuller for longer. Pickled and fermented foods have become very popular, as they benefit tummy health.

SERVES 6 • Ready in 1 hr 1tbsp oil 6 chicken drumsticks 6 chicken thighs 1 large leek, cut into thick rounds 8 rashers of smoked bacon, diced 1.3kg prepared sauerkraut (around 2 jars), drained 4 bay leaves 1tbsp juniper berries, lightly crushed

2tsp peppercorns 275ml Polish beer – we like Tyskie 400g small new potatoes, scrubbed snipped chives, to serve 1 Heat the oil in a large, lidded flameproof casserole, add the chicken drumsticks and thighs in batches and brown well on all sides, then remove to a plate. Add the leek and bacon to the casserole and fry for 5 mins.

2 Return the chicken to the casserole.

Add the sauerkraut, bay, juniper berries, peppercorns, lager (or beer) and potatoes. Season and bring to the boil, then cover and simmer for 35-40 mins, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender. Scatter over the chives. Serve with mustard, gherkins and rye bread, if you like.

Per serving: Cals 390, Fat 17g, Sat fat 2g, Carbs 14g

Venison and butternut squash stew This recipe is made with protein-packed venison and antioxidant-rich squash.

If you can’t find venison, you could use good quality, tenderised pork instead.

SERVES 6 • Ready in 3 hrs, plus overnight marinating 4tbsp oil 700g casserole venison, cubed 1tsp allspice 300ml red wine 4 bay leaves 100g butter 4 large shallots, sliced 3 carrots, sliced 2tbsp plain flour 1 butternut squash, deseeded and chopped, but not peeled zest and juice of 1 orange 500ml beef stock 100g fresh breadcrumbs 4tbsp chopped flat-leaf parsley 1 Heat half the oil in a frying pan, then brown the venison in batches. Set aside to

cool, then put in a lidded plastic container, add the allspice, wine, and bay leaves, and leave in the fridge to marinate overnight.

2 The next day, heat the remaining oil and half the butter in a large pan and add the shallots and carrots. Cook for a few mins, add the flour and stir well.

Gradually add the marinade, stirring continuously, then the venison, squash, orange zest and juice, and beef stock.

Bring to the boil, reduce to a simmer, cover and leave to cook for 2-2 ½ hrs, until the meat is very tender.

3 For the topping, melt the remaining butter in a pan, add the breadcrumbs and stir for 5 mins, until browned.

Remove from the heat, add the parsley and a pinch of salt, and scatter over the stew. Serve with basmati rice, if you like.

Per serving: Cals 500, Fat 24g, Sat fat 11g, Carbs 32g >>

TIP This would be spectacular in a slow cooker

TIP Use a good-quality chicken stock for an alcohol-free alternative woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 141

promotional feature

Yorkshire on a SPOON Yorkshire Provender’s Rustic Vegetable Broth is super healthy, tasty and perfect for Veganuary

I

s there anything better than a big bowl of comforting soup on a chilly winter’s day?

For those with a busy January when there’s little time to rustle one up from scratch, Yorkshire Provender soups taste just like homemade, minus the hassle.

You can bet your bowl is full to the brim with award-winning local produce from Wensleydale, the Moors, the Dales, and from farmers they know by name.

Take their hearty Rustic Vegetable Broth, lovingly made with wholesome root veg, garlic, nutmeg and kale. It might be the South American quinoa that fills you up, but it’s the Yorkshire parsley grown round the corner that makes it taste like home.

We could all do with some low-key suppers that are easy on the waistline

at this time of year. And at only 150 calories a serving, this is a jaw-droppingly healthy meal that still manages to pack in flavour. It’s also perfect for Veganuary (trying a vegan diet for the month of January), oozing with flavour and delicious vegetables.

But don’t just take our word for it.

Yorkshire Provender soups have beaten every rival to win Great Taste Awards for the past six years in a row.

So let’s all stop wallowing in the January blues. Grab a spoon and dive in! After all, even the busiest folk can find a moment to enjoy a bowl of healthy deliciousness.

EVEN MORE GOODNESS AROMATIC THAI CARROT Sweet carrots, soft coconut cream and zingy Thai flavours.

MOROCCAN VEGETABLE TAGINE All the sun-drenched flavour you’d expect, and giant couscous too.

SWEET POTATO & LENTIL DAHL Spicy, tangy and deeply soothing deliciousness.

FOR EXTRA INFORMATION: Visit yorkshireprovender.co.uk and follow @yorksprovender

warming recipes

Roast trout stuffed with herb quinoa and peppers This showstopping supper is elegant enough for entertaining. If you use salmon it might need longer to cook.

SERVES 6 • Ready in 1 hr 5 mins 4 red, yellow or orange peppers 2tbsp olive oil, plus extra for drizzling 125g quinoa 300ml vegetable stock 100g stoned olives, roughly chopped 2 large handfuls of soft herbs, such as parsley, mint, basil, chives, coriander and a little tarragon, chopped Grated zest of 1 lemon and a little juice 3tbsp pine nuts, toasted 2 x 500g sides trout or salmon, cleaned and pin-boned 1 Heat the oven to 230C/Gas 8. For the stuffing, slice the ‘cheeks’ from the peppers, leaving the seeds and pith behind, and arrange on an oiled baking tray, skin-side up. Drizzle with oil and roast for about 20 mins, until charred.

2 Put in a covered bowl and once cool, peel off the skin. Turn down the oven to 170C/Gas 3. Rinse the quinoa in a sieve and put it in a pan with the stock. Bring to the boil and simmer for 16-18 mins.

Once cool, stir in 2tbsp olive oil and the remaining ingredients (except the fish).

3 Lay out 5 x 30cm lengths of kitchen string across an oiled baking tray, 4cm apart. Put one fish side, skin-side down, on top, ensuring the string is evenly spaced. Season the fish and spoon the stuffing on top, pressing it down firmly.

Season the second fish side, then lay it on top, skin-side up. Tie up with the string. The fish can be prepared to this stage in advance and kept in the fridge.

4 Bring to room temperature before cooking. Bake for 15-20 mins until it just flakes when pressed. Serve with greens.

Per serving: Cals 418, Fat 32g, Sat fat 2g, Carbs 15g >>

woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 143

warming recipes

Pear, blueberry and almond crumble So easy to make and works with any of your favourite fruits.

SERVES 4 • Ready in 45 mins

COMPILED BY: KEIRON MURPHY. PHOTOS: TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM

500g pears, peeled and quartered 200g blueberries 200g golden caster sugar zest and juice of 1 orange 1tbsp thickening granules 175g plain flour 60g ground almonds 90g cold butter 30g flaked almonds Ambrosia Light Devon Custard, to serve (optional) you will need: 1.75 litre baking dish

1 Heat the oven to 200C/Gas 6. Put the pears and blueberries into the baking dish, and sprinkle with 125g of the caster sugar, the orange zest and juice, and the thickening granules.

2 In a food processor, whizz the flour, ground almonds and butter into fine breadcrumbs. Stir in the remaining sugar and spoon onto the fruit. Sprinkle the flaked almonds on top and bake for 30 mins until golden brown and the fruit is oozing. Serve with custard if liked.

Per serving: Cals 476, Fat 20g, Sat fat 8g, Carbs 54g

144 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

Sweet treats FOR ALL Whether it’s a vegan or gluten-free bake that you are after, try our delicious recipes for special dietary needs

Creamy no-cheese blueberry ‘cheesecake’ Dairy free

146 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

brilliant bakes

Diabetic friendly

Blueberry oat muffins

brilliant bakes Creamy no-cheese blueberry ‘cheesecake’ DAIRY FREE There’s a growing trend to ditch the dairy – but that doesn’t mean you need to say cheerio to cheesecake! Coconut ‘cream’ gives a gorgeous rich texture.

SERVES 8 • Ready in 20 mins, plus chilling 200g blueberries 50g golden caster sugar 2tsp cornflour 100g dairy-free plain chocolate 15g olive oil spread 125g dairy-free digestive biscuits, crushed 50g desiccated coconut 6 gelatine leaves 400ml can coconut milk 160g can coconut cream 150ml coconut milk yogurt 4tbsp agave syrup finely grated zest and juice of 1 lemon you will need: 19cm loose-based tin 1 Put the blueberries, sugar and 2tbsp water in a pan and bring to the boil.

Reserve 12 berries; stir the cornflour into the sugar mix. Leave to cool.

2 Melt the chocolate and spread in the microwave on high for 90 secs. Stir in the biscuits and desiccated coconut.

Press into the base of the tin. Chill.

3 Soak the gelatine in 4tbsp cold water, to soften. Put the coconut milk, cream and yogurt, agave syrup and lemon zest in a processor and blend.

4 Put the lemon juice into a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water.

Remove the gelatine from the water, add to the lemon juice and heat until dissolved. Stir into the coconut mixture, blend again, then pour onto the biscuit base. Spoon over the blueberry mixture, swirling with a cocktail stick. Chill for 4 hrs. Top with the reserved blueberries.

Per serving: Cals 446, Fat 32g, Sat fat 25g, Carbs 36g 148 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

Blueberry oat muffins

Pear and chocolate cake

DIABETIC FRIENDLY These treats are great for breakfast or for a tasty afternoon pick-me-up.

GLUTEN FREE A winning combination of classic flavours – your guests won’t guess that it’s gluten-free too!

MAKES 12 • Ready in 35 mins

SERVES 8 • Ready in 1 hr 15 mins

200g self-raising wholemeal flour ½tsp bicarbonate of soda ½tsp baking powder 90g oats 30g Silver Spoon Half Spoon granulated sugar 180g pack fresh blueberries 2 medium eggs 284ml carton soured cream 6tbsp runny honey 6tbsp sunflower oil you will need: 12-hole muffin tin lined with paper cases

100g caster sugar, plus a little extra 100g butter, plus extra for greasing 100g dark chocolate, chopped 3 large eggs, separated 100g ground almonds 4 ripe pears, peeled, halved and the core removed with a teaspoon 2tbsp apricot glaze or sieved apricot jam icing sugar, to dust you will need: 23cm deep fluted flan tin, greased and the base lined with baking parchment

1 Heat the oven to 180C/Gas 4. Sift the flour into a bowl, tipping in the bran left in the sieve. Add the bicarbonate of soda, baking powder, oats and sugar, and stir together to mix. Sprinkle in the blueberries.

2 Beat the eggs in a large jug, then add the soured cream, honey and oil, and beat together with a fork.

3 Tip the egg mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold together, stirring until just combined. Avoid over-mixing, a few lumps are fine.

4 Divide the mixture between the muffin cases and bake for 20 mins until they are well-risen and pale golden.

Serve warm or cold.

Per Serving: Cals 242, Fat 12g, Sat fat 4g, Carbs 30g

TIP If you can’t find fresh blueberries you could buy frozen and then thaw them

1 Heat the oven to 180C/Gas 4. Spoon in a little caster sugar to coat the inside of the greased tin, then tip out the excess.

2 Melt the butter and chocolate together in a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water. Set aside to cool.

3 Using an electric mixer, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until the mixture is thick and creamy and leaves a trail.

4 Fold the melted chocolate mixture and ground almonds into the whisked egg yolk mixture.

5 In a separate bowl, and using a clean whisk, beat the egg whites until stiff.

Fold 2tbsp into the chocolate mixture to loosen, then add the remaining whisked egg white and lightly fold in until combined.

6 Pour the mixture into the flan tin and arrange the pear halves on top, pressing lightly into the mixture.

Bake for 45 mins until the cake is set in the centre. Leave to cool in the tin for a few mins before transferring to a wire rack. While the cake is still warm, brush over the apricot glaze.

Dust with icing sugar and serve.

Per serving: Cals 360, Fat 24g, Sat fat 10g , Carbs 29g

ke a c e t a l o c o h c d n a r a e P Gluten free

TIP Fresh is best, but tinned pears would also work well here woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 149

Plum and amaretto Bakewell tart

Fruity treat

Plums are a beautiful and tasty addition to this classic bake.

SERVES 6 • Ready in 1 hr 30 mins, plus chilling 250g shortcrust pastry 100g whole blanched almonds 100g caster sugar 60g unsalted butter, softened 2 eggs, beaten few drops of almond extract 50g plain flour 3 large ripe plums, destoned, and each halved and sliced into 3 wedges 75g icing sugar, sifted 1tbsp amaretto or 1tbsp water mixed with 2 drops almond extract you will need: 20cm deep, loose-based tart tin, 2 baking trays, baking parchment and baking beans

1 On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pastry to the thickness of a £1 coin.

Line the tart tin, allowing any excess pastry to overhang. Prick the base all over with a fork and chill for 15 mins.

2 Heat the oven to 200C/Gas 6. Line the pastry case with baking parchment, fill with baking beans, place on a baking tray and bake for 15 mins until golden brown. Remove the parchment and beans, and return the pastry case to the oven for a further 5-10 mins to thoroughly cook the base. Reduce the oven temperature to 180C/Gas 4.

3 While the pastry is cooking, spread out the almonds on a baking tray and toast lightly in the oven for 6-8 mins.

When cool enough to handle, put them in a food processor with 1 heaped tbsp of the sugar and whizz until fine.

4 Put the butter and remaining sugar in a mixing bowl and beat until light and fluffy. Gradually beat in the eggs and almond extract until combined, then carefully fold in the flour and crushed almonds, and mix until smooth.

5 Spoon the almond mixture over the pastry. Smooth the surface. Arrange the plum slices on the surface in a circular design, pressing them in lightly. Return to the oven and bake for 30-35 mins until the top is golden brown. Remove from the oven and leave to cool. Trim the excess pastry away from the rim with a sharp knife.

6 Mix the icing sugar with the amaretto until smooth and runny, then drizzle over the surface of the tart.

Per serving: Cals 572, Fat 32g, Sat fat 10g, Carbs 62g

TIP Chilling the pastry first helps to prevent the butter from leaking out of the pastry, creating a crispier base

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brilliant bakes

White chocolate and raspberry blondies Squidgy and nutty, these sweet bites are always a winning dessert or teatime treat.

MAKE 16 • Ready in 45 mins 250g unsalted butter 4 large eggs 175g soft brown sugar 1tsp gluten-free baking powder 100g gluten-free plain flour, sifted 200g ground almonds 200g white chocolate, chopped, plus extra to decorate (optional) 200g raspberries you will need: 28x18cm tin, greased and lined with baking parchment

Gluten free

COMPILED BY: ROSIE BENSBERG. RECIPES AND PHOTOS: TI-MEDIACONTENT.COM

1 Heat the oven to 170C/Gas 3. Melt the butter and allow to cool. Whisk the eggs with the sugar until thick and creamy.

2 Mix together the baking powder, flour and ground almonds, then set aside.

3 Alternately fold the flour mixture and melted butter into the egg mixture.

Gently fold in half the chocolate and half the raspberries, pour into the tin, then scatter over the remaining raspberries and chocolate. Bake for 25 mins.

4 Leave in the tin to cool completely, then cut into 16 squares. Melt the extra white chocolate, if using, and drizzle over the blondies before serving.

Per blondie: Cals 348, Fat 26g, Sat fat 11.5g, Carbs 24g

TIP To serve as an after-dinner coffee treat, scatter with dried rose petals while cooling

PERFECT FOR Countryside tranquillity and farm-totable food

BOHO CHIC IN IBIZA

The White Isle may be known for its dance-til-dawn culture, but that’s only a small part of what Ibiza has to offer. Away from the crowds there’s a quiet energy that island residents recognise as almost spiritual.

Enter Cas Gasi, an ancient finca dating back to 1880. With 450 olive, almond and fig trees, and organic vegetable plots, this white farmhouse offers a peaceful paradise serving up delicious seasonal menus right in the middle of Ibiza.

Here it’s about unwinding – head out to the yoga deck for a complimentary wake-up session, have a sunset Swedish massage as the sky changes colour, or find a cosy nook amid the mismatched vintage armchairs for a moment of solitude. Just a 30-minute drive from the airport, this boho-chic hotel is the ideal retreat to reboot and fully recharge.

Stay Cas Gasi offers 14 rooms and suites from €325 per night, based on two adults sharing; casgasi.com

feel-good 10 GETAWAYS For a holiday that’ll leave you rejuvenated, relaxed and ready to face anything, take your pick from our favourite retreats

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relaxing breaks

UNWIND IN ANTIGUA

PERFECT FOR Ultimate indulgence by the sea

It‘s hard to imagine a finer place to relax than Antigua in the Caribbean. On this beautiful and friendly island is the glamorous beachside Curtain Bluff resort.

As you drive through the gates you move from real life into what seems like another world, where your every whim is catered for under the palm trees by an army of smiling staff. The resort is set on its own private promontory, with two exclusive beaches plus a swimming pool, immaculate facilities, beachfront rooms and two excellent restaurants.

But most importantly, absolutely everything is included, from breakfast through lunch and dinner, to even the cheeky piña colada you suddenly decide you need while relaxing on your waterside recliner in mid-afternoon.

Stay Deluxe rooms from around £567 plus 22.5% taxes per night, based on two adults sharing on an all-inclusive basis; curtainbluff.com

Curtain Bluff provides luxury in a truly tropical setting

PERFECT FOR An exotic but eco-friendly holiday

Enjoy stunning views from the tented beach villas at Wa Ale

WILDLIFE IN MYANMAR

The remote Myeik Archipelago is a string of 800 tiny junglewrapped islands scattered over the Andaman Sea, just off the eastern coast of Myanmar. It has only recently opened up to tourism, and is still under strict regulation – its first hotel, Wa Ale, is a luxurious, intimate ecotourism project that donates a chunk of its revenues to local initiatives, such as sea turtle hatcheries, coral protection and local entrepreneurship. Set in the heart of the Lampi Marine National Park, Wa Ale’s accommodation consists of sumptuous solar-powered tented beach villas and wooden treetop homes. New for this year is an exclusive beach house.

Expect to get up close and personal with rare and wonderful wildlife, including giant flying squirrels, gibbons, macaques and pangolins, as well as whale sharks, dolphins and manta rays.

Stay From £310pp per night full-board, including return boat transfers from Thailand’s mainland; waaleresort.com >> woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 153

PERFECT FOR Discovering an ancient winemaking region

FOOD AND WINE TASTING IN CRETE

Perched on the shore of Crete’s eastern coast, the five-star Blue Palace Resort is a whitewashed modern resort sculpted into the hillside with panoramic coastal views. Bungalows, suites and private villas are dotted around the gardens, most with infinity pools. This hotel is in the heart of one of the world’s oldest winemaking regions, and it’s a great place to discover your inner sommelier.

You’ll find a host of wine experiences run by the hotel, including tasting sessions aboard its traditional caique fishing boat and cellar tours. This is a good base for exploring ancient villages, as well as the Palace of Knossos. Visit the Minoan wine press at Vathypetro or stroll to the village of Plaka with its cheery meze bars.

Stay A superior bungalow starts at €235 per night, including breakfast; bluepalace.gr

RELAXATION IN THE WEST COUNTRY

PERFECT FOR Luxurious recharging from your busy life

Lucknam Park sits in stunning, rolling Wiltshire countryside.

It’s an authentic country house, and the vibe is luxurious and elegant but always friendly. The grounds are vast (500 acres) and the overall feel is like being a guest in a Jane Austen novel – what could be more restful than taking a turn around the gardens, reading in the library and later having drinks in the beautifully appointed drawing room? Unlike Jane Austen heroines, though, you can also take a cycle ride, do yoga and Pilates, and visit the award-winning spa.

Restaurant Hywel Jones is grand and befits its Michelin star status. We had divine lobster, melting pork belly, copious amuse-bouches and petits fours – and even the cheeseboard is served on a trolley!

This is a place for real luxury and relaxation. So go on, treat yourself.

Stay Lucknam Park is a member of the Pride of Britain Hotels. A one-night stay in a classic room costs from £295 per night, based on two sharing, including use of the spa; prideofbritainhotels.com 154 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

The hotel is near Bath, but it’s a destination in itself

relaxing breaks

WALK THE SCOTTISH COAST

Discover some of Britain’s most glorious of Inchcolm and May, where puffins peek beaches on a walking holiday along the out from their grassy burrows. There’s lots rugged Scottish coast. The week-long more thrilling wildlife to spot along the walk goes from the Forth Estuary to way, including dolphins, as well as the medieval city of St Andrews, spectacular wildflowers in spring. along the Fife Coastal Path.

Stay Seven nights on the Fife PERFECT FOR The 63-mile route takes in Coastal Path trip with Celtic Revelling in hidden caves, quaint fishing Trails costs from £615pp history and villages and a succession based on two sharing, wildlife of historic sites, including including luggage transfers the castles at Aberdour and and bespoke route planning, Wemyss and Kincraig Hill. The tour, as well as accommodation in local organised by walking specialists Celtic B&Bs, hotels, farmhouses and inns; Trails, also features boat trips to the isles celtictrailswalkingholidays.co.uk >>

woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 155

DISCOVER SECRET PROVENCE

With dramatic landscapes, rolling hills and the scent of lavender and flowers filling the air, it’s no wonder that Provence has long been a favourite destination for holidaymakers looking for joyous escapes – and there are still some secret spots to discover if you venture off the beaten track. Make your way to the spectacular Cévennes National Park, with its steep river gorges and ancient villages, and you’ll get a taste of unspoilt rural France at its finest.

Book in to La Maison Papillons, a restored Provencal farmhouse complete with lavender-fringed pool and views over

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the Cévennes. Surrounded by vineyards and orchards, with free-roaming chickens and flower-filled gardens, this chic hilltop B&B is a great spot for some serious R&R. Nearby you’ll find the Gorges de l’Ardèche, an impressive canyon with sandy beaches and a huge natural limestone arch spanning the river. Cycle to local vineyards, visit markets and head to the beautiful medieval village of La Roque-sur-Cèze, with its cobbled streets.

La Maison Papillons is part of i-escape’s Secret Collection for 2020.

Stay Prices start at £85 per room, per night, including breakfast; i-escape.com/la-maison-papillons

WORDS: GEOFFREY PALMER, JANE DRUKER, KATY HOLLAND, MIRANDA McMINN, ZOE WEST. PHOTOS: ALAMY, CHRISTOS DRAZOS PHOTOGRAPHY, NATIONAL TRUST IMAGES

PERFECT FOR Stunning views and unspoilt countryside

relaxing breaks PERFECT FOR Working on your creative inspiration

WRITE IN RURAL YORKSHIRE

Unleash your inner muse on a residential writers’ retreat, set in an 18th-century mill owner’s house in West Yorkshire, which once belonged to English poet Ted Hughes. Lumb Bank is hidden away in 20 acres of woodlands with valley views, perfect for getting the creative juices flowing.

There’s a host of writing courses available, with sessions led by well-known writers and evening readings in a relaxed setting.

Stay Writing courses at the Ted Hughes Arvon Centre, Lumb Bank, cost from £795 for five nights full-board in a single room with a shared bathroom; arvon.org

There’s a wellstocked library here too

A COSY COTTAGE IN COUNTY FERMANAGH

PERFECT FOR A weekend of wildlife spotting

County Fermanagh, aka Northern Ireland’s Lake District, is one of the most scenic counties of Northern Ireland. The Crom Estate nature reserve, on the shores of Upper Lough Erne, boasts wonderful scenery and teems with wildlife all year around. Stay at one of seven National Trust cottages gathered around a courtyard, all with open fires and comfy furnishings.

Walks around the reserve provide plenty of opportunities for winter wildlife spotting; look out for pine martens, fallow deer and red squirrels.

Stay Two nights start at £251 at Alder Cottage, sleeps two; nationaltrust.org.uk/holidays

Stay in a courtyard cottage on a nature reserve

PERFECT FOR A bespoke health and wellbeing boost

Learn how to live in the moment and get back to being your best self

A FITNESS RETREAT IN KENT

Whether you need to kick-start your exercise routine or recharge your wellbeing batteries, Stede Court Private Fitness Retreat, set in beautiful countryside in Biddenden in Kent, is the place to do it. Owner Kathryn Freeland, described as ‘the world’s most sought-after trainer’, has created an idyllic spot to find some me time. With outdoor fitness training for all abilities, healthy food, sauna and swimming pond, here you'll find peace and calm.

Stay Day retreats cost £125 per person; a two-night weekend retreat costs £1,750 for two or £2,995 for up to six; stedecourtprivatefitnessretreat.co.uk woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 157

W&H cruise SPECIAL A cruise is a wonderful way to discover other countries in the most relaxing and luxurious way possible. So sit back and enjoy exploring your next glorious getaway

travel inspiration

Clockwise, from left: Le Verdon; L’Amélie beach, Soulac-sur-Mer; a pintxos bar; Guggenheim Museum Bilbao

ROMANCE ON THE MED

Amanda Swift finds plenty to celebrate on a luxury Mediterranean cruise.

My husband and I are celebrating introductory talk on the Basque 30 years together this year. Spending Country and the tour of the old a week on a boat with 1,000 other town. This wound up in the Plaza passengers might not sound like the Real, where we had a lunch of most romantic holiday, but we revelled pintxos – the Basque version of in the comfort and impeccable service tapas – and a cold beer. Perfect. of the cruise. Arcadia offered something When Arcadia docked at Le for everyone, from early morning yoga, Verdon we chose to take the shuttle lunchtime bridge or sitting on deck bus to Soulac-sur-Mer – a charming watching the sunset – a favourite with us seaside town where we bought quiche ageing lovebirds.

Lorraines in the local boulangerie On board there’s and ate them sitting entertainment to suit on a bench in a square everyone – we especially with a central fountain, enjoyed the cocktail serenaded by a young pianist, and a young woman playing ukulele couple on guitar and and improbably singing vocals. The on-board You Are My Sunshine.

Screening Room, which Although we were cruise was far more luxurious newbies, it certainly made than our local cinema, a change from our usual showed recent releases. And we spent holidays. And as for romance, P&O a lot of time just blissfully catching up on helped us along by requiring black tie on reading and sleeping. two nights. We don’t dress up often so Our first stop, in Cherbourg, fell on this dress code did necessitate research Bastille Day, so we were able to witness into the exact meaning of ‘glamorous a moving commemoration ceremony cocktail dresses’ and an eleventh hour before taking a walk to the local market. dash to M&S for dress suit trousers.

When we docked in Santander we When I showed one of my friends the took the excursion to Bilbao, where our photo of us all dressed up, she said she first stop was a visit to the Guggenheim thought my husband looked like James Museum. I was blown away by Frank Bond! I didn’t disagree. I know I’m a tiny Gehry’s design. Our guide left us to bit biased, but our romantic holiday had explore the museum in our own time done the trick and I felt soppy about but we benefited from her excellent him almost until we got home… >>

‘The screening room was far more luxurious than our local cinema’

GETTING THERE P&O Cruises is offering a 7-night cruise on Ventura (N019) for £699 per person for an inside cabin. Departing on 11 July 2020, the price includes Kids’ Clubs, full-board meals and entertainment on-board.

Departing from and returning to Southampton. To book, visit pocruises.com, call 03453 555 111 or visit your local travel agent. woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 159

Tour & Cruise

12 days From £ 2 ,

29 5 p p

a true reflection of the

River Danube

A rail and river journey that takes you along one of the world’s most iconic waterways, as you live and breathe the traditions and local flavours of Germany, Hungary, Slovakia and Austria.

Embark on our Imperial Cities & Danube River Cruise.

Berlin

River cruise the Great Rail way Enjoy every moment Escorted rail tour to your ship, taking in the sights along the way.

Cruise in luxury 5* ships with spacious cabins and suites.

Expertly crafted menus Onboard dining showcasing regional flavours. Dinner drinks included.

Local discoveries Flexible excursion options with knowledgeable local guides.

A safe pair of hands Relax with your Cruise Manager on hand to take care of everything.

Bratislava London

Passau

Vienna

Budapest

Prague

Days 1-2: Your railway adventure Begin your adventure by rail to Berlin, home to the magnificent 18th century Brandenburg Gate.

After touring the city, hop on your train to Prague.

Days 3-4: Gothic Prague Explore Prague – the city of a hundred spires. At daybreak, you catch the Budapest train where you’ll board your ship and relax.

Day 5: Grand Budapest Be awestruck by the Hungarian capital’s magnificent neo-Gothic landmarks. At twilight, be treated by spectacular sunset views of the Danube.

Day 6: The wonder of Bratislava Discover a tale of two cities –

Cologne

Melk Abbey Regensburg

London

explore the cobblestoned Baroque old town, before venturing into the cosmopolitan plazas.

at the stunning UNESCO listed Austrian lakes and its local fairy-tale villages featured in ‘The Sound of Music’.

Day 7: Majestic Vienna Wander the imperial birthplace of music. Be treated to your own intimate recital from Vienna Philharmonic musicians over a traditional Austrian supper.

Days 10-12: A fond farewell Uncover the medieval port of Regensburg, then spend the night in the beautiful 4* Maritim Hotel in Cologne as you relax on your rail journey back to London.

Day 8: Unforgettable valley views The captivating Wachau Valley vineyards lead us to the spectacular Melk Abbey, an 11th century Benedictine abbey dramatically set on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Danube.

Day 9: The beauty of Austria Tour Mozart’s birthplace, or have your words fail you as you gaze

2020 Tour & Cruise departures 1st May 28th May 16th Jun

£2,345 £2,495 £2,495

28th Jul 22nd Aug

£2,295 £2,445

First class departures are also available, from £2,595 per person. Please call for details.

Tour code: HUR

To book your river cruise or request a brochure

Call 01904 734026 or visit GreatRail.com

As of 29th November 2019

*This tour may be suitable for reduced mobility passengers, please call for details. Book with 100% confidence, flight-inclusive holidays are ATOL or ABTOT protected, non flight-inclusive holidays are protected by ABTOT. Dates and prices are subject to availability. Prices shown are per person, based on 2 people sharing. Prices may change prior to and after publication. Itinerary may differ depending on the departure date you choose. Terms and conditions apply. Please visit the website or call for further details. Calls will be recorded.

travel inspiration

Clockwise, from top: Moscow Kremlin; Saint Basil’s Cathedral in Red Square; the Viking Helgi river cruise ship

TO RUSSIA, WITH LOVE

Emma Justice discovers Russia’s rich heritage on a fascinating river voyage.

Waiting excitedly for the plush red The highlight of our five-day curtain to rise in Catherine the Great’s voyage to Moscow (apart from private theatre, I wondered where the caviar and vodka tastings on great Empress herself had sat. She built board), was stopping at Mandrogi, this intimate but opulent auditorium a small island where you can inside her Winter Palace in St Petersburg, experience a traditional Banya, or because she didn’t want to Russian sauna. I got go out in the cold. a fit of the giggles as Luckily, I’m here during I sat in a heated room the ‘White Nights’ of wearing a gnome-like summer, when the city is felt hat while being hit bathed in a luminescent with birch sticks by a all-night glow. man who resembled Catherine the Great loved Father Christmas. ballet so much she founded We spent our final the Imperial Ballet Theatre four days moored in in 1783. Seeing Swan Lake Moscow, where we performed on the same stumbled upon an stage as Anna Pavlova once danced is impressive military display by Putin’s one of the highlights on this Viking river Presidential regiment in the Kremlin, cruise, which takes you from St Petersburg bathed in the sunshine in Gorky Park, to Moscow – or vice versa – in 13 days and bought space food in the Museum on one of five Russian river cruisers. of Cosmonautics. We also visited Red During the four days we were moored Square twice to admire the swirling in St Petersburg we visited the exquisite onion domes of St Basil’s Cathedral, Fabergé Museum, home to nine Imperial imposing walls of the Kremlin and stark Easter eggs; admired some of the three brutalism of Lenin’s tomb, in both night million works of art in the Hermitage; and and day. Russia was a revelation and took a trip to Pushkin to see the elegant I came away from it with love – not to Catherine Palace, on included excursions. mention a suitcase full of vodka. >>

*BASED ON OCTOBER 2020 DEPARTURE OR MAY 2021

‘I sat in a sauna wearing a gnome-like felt hat while being hit with birch sticks’

GETTING THERE Viking’s Waterways of the Tsars itinerary costs from £3,095pp* including return flights, 12 nights in a river view stateroom, all meals on board, wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, plus 10 included shore excursions and on-board lectures. Viking can also help arrange a Russian visa, which is required for all UK passport holders. Call 0800 319 6660 or visit vikingrivercruises.co.uk woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 161

travel inspiration

CRUISING

in 2020

Clockwise, from top: Madagascar; Aswan, Egypt; Marco Pierre White’s Ocean Grill restaurant on P&O

Still looking for the perfect cruise?

Sue Bryant has all the latest insider ideas

Take in the best of South Africa’s rugged coastline and search for the Big Five on safari excursions from Cape Town, Port Elizabeth and Durban. Then sail north through the balmy Indian Ocean to the French-owned Comoro Islands and exotic Madagascar, its landscape and wildlife like nowhere else. ✱ From £3,199, departing 3 December, 2020, including flights; 0800 035 5130, fredolsencruises.com

LUXURY ON THE NILE

With Kenneth Branagh’s big-budget remake of Death on the Nile opening in October, all eyes are on Egypt in 2020. A round-trip cruise from Luxor visits the Valley of the Kings, Kom Ombo, Edfu and Luxor temples, and a day in Aswan to see Philae temple, plus a chance to visit the magnificent Abu Simbel, on the shores of Lake Nasser. ✱ From £1,247, sailing on the five-star 162 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

MS Tulip, departing Luxor 2 March, including full-board, all sightseeing and flights from Heathrow; 020 7407 2111, discoveregypt.co.uk

HIGH TECH CRUISING

MSC’s latest ship, the 6,300-passenger Grandiosa, is the second of their ships to feature Zoe, the industry’s first digital personal assistant. Ready and waiting for you in your room, you’ll find interactive maps to guide you around the ship, as well as online restaurant booking. It can also provide tailored agendas, factoring in everything from your favourite movies to your wine preferences. ✱ From £879, including board and return flights from the UK to Barcelona; msccruises.com

NO-FLY CARIBBEAN ESCAPE

If you prefer not to fly, you may think the powdery beaches of the Caribbean are something you’ll only ever dream of. Not

so! P&O Cruises’ Arcadia will whisk you from Southampton to the sunshine on this 28-day trip of a lifetime, calling at seven dreamy islands, among them Barbados, St Lucia and Antigua, as well as Madeira and the Azores. ✱ From £2,279 – just £81 a night, full-board – departing 11 November; 0344 338 8003, pocruises.com

FAMILY FUN

Treat the kids to a Mediterranean adventure this summer on Royal Caribbean’s Explorer of the Seas, which sails from Southampton straight to the sunshine. In 14 nights, you’ll visit Lisbon, Gibraltar, Cartagena and more. This dazzling ship features a surf simulator, an ice rink, mini golf, a sports court and award-winning children’s clubs. ✱ From £1,274 per person, four sharing, departing Southampton on 21 July; 0344 493 4005, royalcaribbean.co.uk

COMPILED BY: HELENA CARTWRIGHT. PHOTOS: ALAMY, BERTRAND RIEGER/HEMIS.FR, GETTY IMAGES/ HEMIS.FR RM, GETTY IMAGES/ISTOCKPHOTO, GETTY IMAGES/ROBERT HARDING WORLD IMAGERY

WILDLIFE ADVENTURE

COMING NEXT MONTH NEW SEASON FASHION How to pick the right styles for your shape YOUR BEST SKIN EVER! We’ve found buys for every age

W&H SPECIAL EASY WAYS TO A CALMER HOME Ditch clutter for good

Try our amazing low-sugar afternoon tea

PHOTO: SAM STOWELL

REVEALED! Our favourite National Trust hotspots

MOTHER’S DAY MAGIC

DON’T MISS OUR MARCH ISSUE, ON SALE 6 FEBRUARY

SAIL

away

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with MSC Cruises; from world-class entertainment to the finest quality cuisine, they have all you could want for the perfect holiday

I

f you really stop and think about what you want from a holiday, we’d bet that the following comes into it: the chance to relax, the opportunity to see new places and experience new things, fabulous food, great entertainment – and have it all planned and organised for you.

We may just have the answer, a holiday with MSC Cruises.

Depending on where you want to go, you can take your pick from cruises to the Mediterranean, Caribbean and Northern Europe.

Set sail around a cluster of sunny, jewel-like islands including Barbados, the Bahamas and St Lucia, and experience their white sandy beaches – piña colada in hand, of course – or

visit colourful colonial towns and learn about their history. Then there’s the sights of European iconic cities, such as Barcelona, Dubrovnik and Naples, where you’ll get the chance to delve into food markets and eat local delicacies, from fresh seafood paella to crisp wood-fired pizza. You can also admire the architecture (who could miss the magnificent Sagrada Familia or the limestone-paved Stradun?) and immerse yourself in the culture. The

stunning landscapes of Iceland, Norway and even Russia are just some of the other destinations available – imagine the wonder of seeing the Northern Lights for the first time, discovering the beauty of the fjords, or marvelling at majestic palaces and Orthodox churches.

Going ashore and exploring, however, is only half the story, as there’s just as much to experience on board. Whether you’re a couple looking to eat in a different restaurant each night of your holiday, sampling cuisine from around the world, or a family looking to spend some quality time together at one of their LEGO® experience days, there’s plenty to keep you occupied as you sail from coast to coast.

promotional feature

Naples, Italy.

Right: Tortola, the British Virgin Islands The entertainment on offer ranges from a different West End-style theatre show every night of the week, to the truly innovative performances and incredible skills of the world-famous Cirque du Soleil at Sea. Budding Strictly fans can jive the night away at one the stylish on-board nightclubs, or if your talents lie elsewhere, you can impress/embarrass family and friends at karaoke in the TV Studio & Bar, or even try a bit of bowling in the full-sized bowling alley.

By day, there’s no need to let up your gym routine, as you can make use of Technogym-equipped fitness centres, squash and tennis courts, or take part in fun fitness programmes.

Pampering comes courtesy of the Balinese-inspired Aurea Spa, which offers a range of indulgent treatments.

And while you’re sailing to the next destination, sample dishes by

Copenhagen, Denmark

ALL ABOARD!

Why cruising really does make for a fantastic way to travel...

THE MED

Michelin-starred chef Raymond Blanc, or visit The Asian Market Kitchen designed by the award-winning Roy Yamaguchi, available on MSC Seaside (pictured main and inset) and MSC Seaview.

Now, doesn’t all that sound like a pretty perfect holiday to you?

Some of the most beautiful parts of the Med are scattered around the sea or lie along the coast, making stopping to marvel at the scenery easy when you’re on a cruise. You’ll have the best view of a sunset in Santorini, and easy access to the sights of Barcelona and Rome.

THE CARIBBEAN Here, there’s almost nothing but islands, and reaching them on a cruise means you can explore several over the course of one journey. Evocative names like Anguilla, Trinidad and Tobago, St Lucia and Guadeloupe entice with their promise of white sand beaches fringed with palm trees, pirate coves and rum plantations.

NORTHERN EUROPE

On board, you’ll find the world-famous Cirque du Soleil at Sea and dishes

by Michelin-starred chef Raymond Blanc

The fact that you can sail from Southampton to Northern Europe on a no-fly cruise is good news.

Being on a ship offers unparalleled views and access to places like the Norwegian fjords, which fringe the coastline, while you could get glimpses of the Northern Lights during a trip to Iceland or Sweden.

To book, go to msccruises.co.uk or call 0203 429 4056.

W&H

BOOK CLUB

February’s

BOOK CLUB

Our books editors Zoe West and Emma Shacklock give us their favourite picks for the month, plus bestselling author B.A. Paris shares her writing secrets

POWERFUL WOMEN

BOOK LOVE AND WAR OF THE A LONG PETAL OF MONTH THE SEA by Isabel Allende

THE LADY OF THE RAVENS

by Joanna Hickson (£14.99, HarperCollins) The perfect read for fans of Philippa Gregory and Alison Weir, this book brings to life the court of the first Tudor king, Henry VII, and his new queen, Elizabeth of York. Joan Vaux, a servant of the court and a confidante of Elizabeth, becomes privy to the dangers that threaten this new dynasty. Well researched and bewitching, the narrative and characters work seamlessly together.

EXTRAORDINARY JOURNEY

AMERICAN DIRT by Jeanine Cummins (£14.99, Tinder Press) There’s a huge buzz around this timely novel, which explores an illegal crossing of the Mexico-US border. As a mother and her son flee their home, they become migrants on the run. Dodging drugs cartels, they ride the northbound train ‘la bestia’. Full of heartstopping moments, this outstanding tale of loss and hope deserves a wide readership. Read our exclusive interview with Jeanine Cummins next month!

(£16.99, Bloomsbury) A gripping novel for our times, this confirms – again – that Allende is a consummate storyteller. Starting at the end of the Spanish Civil War in 1939, and ending in 1994, we follow two remarkable characters – Roser and Victor – as they flee Franco’s dictatorship and board a ship to Chile, commissioned by the poet Pablo Neruda. Historical fact is exquisitely interwoven with personal stories as families are displaced by war, torn apart and reunited. A stunning portrayal of love, courage and hope.

COMING OF AGE

STAY UP WITH HUGO BEST

by Erin Somers (£8.99, Tinder Press) This contemporary and thoughtprovoking read sees aspiring 29-year-old comedy writer, June, invited to spend the Memorial Day weekend at the mansion of her womanising ex-boss, Hugo Best, in Connecticut. Against her better judgement, she accepts that her time writing for his late-night show is now over – and a learning curve begins for them both. A timely and engaging read.

ATMOSPHERIC THRILLER

THE OTHER PEOPLE by C.J. Tudor (£12.99, Michael Joseph) C.J. Tudor has crafted an intense novel that gets right to the heart of what it means to love and to grieve. Driving home one night, Gabe sees the face of his daughter Izzy in the rear window of the car in front. Back in the house, he discovers the bodies of his wife and a young girl who even the police are convinced is his beloved Izzy. Now, three years later, the disturbing events that led to that night are finally emerging.

Intriguing, dramatic and heart-breaking.

PAPERBACKS OF THE MONTH Tell Me Your Secret by Dorothy Koomson ✢ Six Tudor Queens:

DEVOTED SISTERS

MISS AUSTEN

by Gill Hornby (£12.99, Century) In this subtle and delicate novel, Gill Hornby has created a clever, warm-hearted character in Cassandra, Jane Austen’s sister.

Cassandra is on a mission to recover letters sent by Jane to relatives before they can be publicly exposed. We follow her through youth and old age, and emerge closer to the genius of one sister and the loving devotion of the other.

HEART-WRENCHING UP LIT

THE FIRST TIME I SAW YOU by Emma Cooper (£8.99, Headline) When a chance meeting makes it clear that love at first sight really does exist, Sophie and Samuel’s lives become forever entwined. But fate conspires to separate them. Even apart, though, they discover their bond is one that can cross boundaries and countries.

An evocative, warm and character-driven read that is truly memorable.

HOW I WRITE

B.A. Paris

B.A. Paris is the author of four bestselling novels. Her debut, Behind Closed Doors, sold over a million copies, while her longanticipated latest novel, The Dilemma, is set to be one of this year’s most chilling thrillers.

I’m not a planner – I prefer to see where the characters and the story take me. I don’t make spreadsheets.

I’ve tried, but it doesn’t work for me.

It’s like going on a journey with people you don’t know but, by the end, you’ve become great friends because you’ve lived through incredible times together.

The plot comes before the characters. I’ll find my starting point for the story, and sometimes it’s based on an experience I’ve had. It may be driving through some woods in a terrible storm, and I’ll think about what could have happened. I see a car stopped at the side of the road then fill in the characters after.

If the focus is there, I can write at any time. I’m not a good sleeper, so I’ll often write in the dead of the night. If I’m writing a psychological thriller, that actually provides a great atmosphere.

There are other days when I need to pause and think about what happens next. So I’ll take a break, usually in the form of a walk. Or I’ll make a cake – I find baking very soothing.

I usually hit a wall halfway through a book. So I’ll have a complete break for a few days, then reread what I’ve written, make some changes and take it up again with renewed motivation.

5 OF THE BEST... Feel-good fiction

THE HOPES AND TRIUMPHS OF THE AMIR SISTERS

by Nadiya Hussain (£8.99, HQ) Mae is on a journey to establish herself in an unfamiliar world.

A heart-warming tale.

IT STARTED WITH A SECRET by Jill Mansell (£14.99, Headline Review) Having secured her dream job, Lainey finds herself pretending she is part of a couple.

Feel-good fun.

THE TELEPHONE BOX LIBRARY

by Rachael Lucas (£7.99, Pan) Lucy, a history teacher, has taken a sabbatical but meeting a fiery 90year-old is destined to change her life forever.

TAKING A CHANCE ON LOVE

by Erin Green (£9.99, Headline Review) This uplifting tale sees three women being challenged by their perspectives on the ‘perfect’ relationship.

THE LITTLE VILLAGE LIBRARY

by Helen Rolfe (£7.99, Orion) This is a novel with community at its heart.

And at The Library of Shared Things you can borrow anything…

Anna of Kleve, Queen of Secrets by Alison Weir ✢ The Deep by Alex Rogers ✢ The Doll Factory by Elizabeth Macneal

FEEL GREAT every day OUT NOW

IN CONVERSATION WITH

W&H

BOOK CLUB

Libby Page

The novelist and keen swimmer talks about the power of stories and random acts of kindness

L

ibby Page’s debut The Lido, about a campaign to save a swimming pool, was one of last year’s must-read novels.

Its focus on community and friendship follows through to her latest novel, The 24-Hour CafŽ – the café that never sleeps. Libby lives in London with her fiancé and still enjoys an al fresco swim or two.

When I was considering the setting for The 24-Hour CafŽ I had to think of somewhere with the potential for lots of stories. That was when I came up with Liverpool Street station. It’s a big station with offices nearby, as well as Shoreditch for people going on a night out, and the Stansted Express. So people are constantly leaving and arriving.

One of the things I find fascinating about living in a city is that our lives are constantly brushing up against so many others. You may be sitting on a train next to someone who’s had a similar experience to you, or you may find you have an unexpected connection to someone. A café seemed like the perfect environment to talk about those stories.

I wanted to write about friendship.

Hannah and Mona are the two lead characters in this book and it can almost read like a love story. Romantic love is amazing, but it’s only one type

of love, which films and books often centre on. I am lucky enough that I’m in a romantic relationship, but I also have all these friendships that are actually just as rich and meaningful.

There are so many parallels. My Irish stepdad has a ‘pub friend’. This type of friend may not be a person you’d tell your darkest secrets to, but that doesn’t

mean they’re not special to you. Not all our friends serve the same purpose.

There can be too much emphasis on what our romantic partners should mean to us. When I met my fiancé I had this idea he should be my everything.

But of course I need my female friends too. I can spend hours talking to them in a way that I can’t with my partner, >> woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 169

w&h book club

Living in a city is fascinating. I grew up in the countryside, which I loved, but I find London so rich. I often ask myself questions like, ‘Why is that person sitting in a café alone at 2am?’ That says a lot about their life. This book was a good opportunity not only to talk about Hannah and Mona and what’s happening with them, but also to think about all the other people coming and going.

It was quite difficult to map out this book because of the 24-hour time frame. There was a lot of editing to do, more so than for The Lido. The book I wrote originally, compared with the edited one, is very different. There were so many stories to keep going while still building empathy for the main characters but, as in real life, some people come and go. You may experience one seismic moment with a person and that’s all. Whereas other experiences are bound to be richer.

Random acts of kindness in my book occur because I see that in life. Recently, I was driving and got lost. As a nervous driver, I felt a panic attack coming on. So I pulled up, sat down on the side of the road and sobbed. A woman walking her dog stopped and sat with me. She comforted me and told me that sometimes she felt panicky driving and that I was brave for even doing it. I didn’t know who she was, and she may not have given it a moment’s thought since, but I still think about how lovely she was. That’s all it takes sometimes.

I’m never the person at parties chatting away and being the centre of attention.

I guess that’s why I became a writer. I’m fascinated by other people’s stories.

Although my characters are fictional, there are incidents in my own life and other people’s that I draw on. I have a lot of empathy for people – sometimes too much – but I find writing these stories through my characters means I’m not dwelling on these issues as my own.

‘I can spend hours talking to my female friends in a way that I can’t with my partner’

I had a big pinboard with each hour on it. I then had to choose who was featured in each of those hours. Putting the stories side by side means you aren’t just constantly reading about sad events – there is a lot of joy there, too. The reality of life is that there’s light and shade.

‘Up lit’ didn’t exist as a category when I was writing The Lido, but I like the idea of uplifting literature as I’ve always been an optimist, so that makes sense to me. It doesn’t mean there aren’t moments of unhappiness, though.

Someone wise once said, ‘Anything that has the capacity to bring you joy has the capacity to bring you sadness.’ There’s such an onslaught of negative news at the moment, and we put a lot of emphasis on tragedy, but when I walk down the street I see so many acts of kindness too.

170 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

I was surprised at the success of The Lido. I’ve always written stories, so when I was working on The Lido I didn’t really think about the end result.

There were many points when I was writing it where I thought, ‘OK, I don’t think this is the one and I may have to shelve it.’

So when it got published, even though everyone was congratulating me, I still felt self-critical. You always think that anything you create could be better, so I was very happy when I realised it was doing well.

My neighbours saw me in a newspaper and cut my face out in the shape of a heart and pinned it to my door!

That made me laugh. I had recently been chosen as an ‘author to watch’, which was special.

There are nice people out there – you just have to keep your eyes open. ✱ The 24-Hour CafŽ

by Libby Page is out on 23 January (£12.99, Orion).

LibbyÕs

BOOK CHOICES

THE WRITER WHO INSPIRED ME

WHEN GOD WAS A RABBIT

by Sarah Winman I love Sarah and her writing, which is so beautiful and evocative. It’s moving, but with a positive outlook. I’ve heard her talk frequently, and it was Sarah who inspired me to write. She talked so passionately about her craft that it gave me the push I needed.

A DEEP KNOWLEDGE OF PEOPLE

THE BREAK

by Marian Keyes Marian’s books are very popular. They’re so complex yet are always about the human story. In her latest novel, The Break, there is such a variety of stories and the characters are believable and relatable. She writes funny parts, but then there are those moments that knock you down with sadness.

MASTER OF NUANCED CHARACTERS

THE CONFESSION

by Jessie Burton Two women meet in 1980s London and later head to Los Angeles, where everything suddenly changes. Not all the characters in this novel are likeable, and some are flawed, yet we have empathy for them. The writing is beautiful, and Jessie’s descriptions are magical.

WORDS: ZOE WEST. PHOTO: NATALIE DAWKINS

Bruno. He’s great but he doesn’t want to analyse things in the way my friends and I do. I’ve known some of them since I was young, and we have shared experiences that I won’t have with some others. But they’re all a great source of support for me.

I

think I’d always known – the way meerkats sense predators and dogs are coolly detached with non-doggy people, I always knew that Richard was out of my league in some odd way.

He drove a car in college when the rest of us huddled at bus stops, college scarves glistening with raindrops. He wasn’t tall but what he lacked in inches, he made up for in charisma. He wore it like expensive scent.

He was studying Fine Arts and my friends in Science, all working for doctorates in the chemistry field, normally giggled at the Fine Art folk with their earnest Modigliani faces, swingy long hair and the cashmere clothes of the very rich.

But nobody laughed at Richard.

When those dark eyes turned your way in the student bar and he carelessly swept back a skein of honey-blond hair from his face, the female student body sighed as one.

He briefly dated a Portia, daughter of an ENT specialist who was rumoured to have a yacht; moved onto a Sybil, whose uncle owned a gallery, and worked his way effortlessly through students as rich and expensive as he looked.

Until his locker broke late one night in college, and he bumped into me: a woman with no family connections to anything except a butcher’s shop in Mohill and a guarantee of decent meat for life.

I didn’t have the salon-glossy hair of Portia, or Sybil’s effortless wardrobe.

I was, however, tall, slender and what Richard later called patrician-looking, which was really only a version of my father’s piercing gaze as he asked people to settle their accounts and an aquiline nose from some long-dead ancestor.

Richard had no keys to his car or his flat, the night porters were gone and he needed somewhere to stay. Reader, in the How To Be A Feminist Handbook, I did everything wrong that night.

‘You’re so different, exotic,’ he said as we lay in the bed in my bedsit and I wondered how I’d ever thought I’d had satisfactory sex before. It has been spectacular. Amazing. There were no words for what we’d shared.

172 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

FALLING IN LOVE all over again

by Cathy Kelly

Richard had won her over on their first night – but who would love her now he’d left?

‘Noisy,’ I laughed, embarrassed.

‘Sensual,’ he disagreed, and went on to make me noisy once more.

I wasn’t stupid. I thought he’d head off in the dawn, liberate house and car keys from his locker and I’d never see him again.

But a week later, I won a prestigious prize for a doctoral student working.

Suddenly, I was hot property and then Richard turned up again. ✣✣✣✣ As I finally drag the plastic bags full of his clothes and hair products down to the bin, I wonder – again – how it is that

I have always been both very clever and very stupid. Twenty-two years of marriage, more letters after my name than fit on the top line of my prestigious cards, and I still have the emotional cop on of a particularly stupid rabbit.

There are so many different forms of clever after all. I once thought Richard was too good for me – now I know, after a year of learning about myself, that he wasn’t good enough for me.

At first, Joely pushed me to get rid of her father’s belongings once and for all.

But I wasn’t ready.

She’d Skyped from Perth where she

exclusive short story publicly, punched by Lucinda’s much more handsome, younger fiancé, and dumped by the gallery for his behaviour.

It was a last warning, I heard. Richard, without a bean to his name, suddenly found himself down on his luck – and I changed the locks.

I texted him that he could pick up his clothes and things, but he blocked my number. I was used to embarrassment.

He was not. ✣✣✣✣ I dump the last bag into the bin and laugh as I see Scribbles, my rescue terrier of indeterminate age following me.

Scribbles is small, off-white and sees herself as a warrior princess in scruffy fur.

She has been such a joy in my life and when I go off with my walking club – ‘Walking clubs are so middle class,’ Richard used to say – Scribbles loves to come.

On the tango nights – who knew I’d be so good at it? – she sits at home n her perch on the couch rm and watches out the indow. She adores it when everyone comes me with me and we play usic, open wine and chat.

Like all good students of uman behaviour, Scribbles as already identified who she likes best in the tango gang: Liam, a former footballer who got into dancing when running a FTSE 100 company gave him a heart attack.

Liam is surprised at how limber he is on the dance floor and we inevitably gravitate towards each other each week in the class. He’s been here once for dinner à deux, but I told him I can’t make any promises.

Liam, who’s divorced and has the sexiest Northern accent I’ve ever heard, says he understands.

‘I fell in love with my ex-husband because I didn’t know myself properly,’ I’ve explained. ‘I’m not ready for a new relationship yet.’

I’m enjoying being in a relationship with myself first. ✱ Cathy Kelly’s latest book, The Family Gift (£12.99, Orion), is out now.

CATHY KELLY, 2019. COPYRIGHT: TI MEDIA LIMITED, 2019.

ILLUSTRATION: MICHAEL DRIVER

I wasn’t stupid. I thought he’d head off in the dawn and I’d never see him again and Matt, her boyfriend, were working in a scuba-diving business, soaking up sun and sheer joy.

‘Mum. Dump his stuff. Stop torturing yourself. You can do so much better than Dad.’ Richard had just left me – wildly publicly because he was caught in a clinch at a viewing night – for a girl who worked part-time in the gallery.

He’d always had a type – rich, connected, posh. Her name was Lucinda something double-barrelled.

She had very long dark hair, jewellery from Tiffany and a trust fund.

During our marriage, I endured the affairs and concentrated on being the best parent I possibly could for Joely.

Children only need one good parent, I’d read when the fears were greatest, and I thought she’d be destroyed by hearing of her father’s infidelity one day.

But no. Joely had plenty of the Mohill butcher’s shop blood flowing through her veins.

‘I love Dad but you can’t rely on him. Throw out his stuff, start legal proceedings and live your own life.’

It was a year since he’d left in the night, embarrassed at being caught so

woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 173

W&H WEEKEND G R E AT F I L M S , T V A N D C U LT U R A L T R E AT S

Hot new shows ON THE BOX White House Farm This drama tells the true story of how five members of a family were murdered at their Essex farmhouse in 1985.

Freddie Fox plays Jeremy Bamber, who was convicted of the murders of his parents, sister and nephews. ITV

COBRA

REAL-LIFE SCANDAL

MUST-SEE MOVIES Bombshell

Charlize Theron, Nicole Kidman and Margot Robbie head the cast of this Oscartipped drama based on the shocking true story of the bold women at Fox News who brought down their powerful boss, Roger Ailes (portrayed by John Lithgow), for sexual harassment. Mark Duplass and Kate McKinnon also star. Out 17 January

Jojo Rabbit

SATIRICAL COMEDY

A young boy in wartime Germany has a buffoonish Hitler as an imaginary friend, while his mother (Scarlett Johansson) is hiding a Jewish girl in the attic. Taika Waititi has created a touching parable about good and evil. Out 1 January

1917 Inspired by his grandfather’s WW1 tales, Sam Mendes’ epic war movie stars George MacKay and Dean-Charles Chapman as British privates undertaking a seemingly impossible mission. Benedict Cumberbatch also stars. Out 10 January

WAR DRAMA

The Personal History of David Copperfield

A RE-IMAGINATION 174 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

Armando Iannucci brings fizzing wit and buoyant energy to this highly original adaptation of Charles Dickens’ beloved novel. Dev Patel leads a star-studded cast. Out 24 January

Robert Carlyle plays the Prime Minister we all wish we had dealing with a major crisis in this six-part political thriller. With Victoria Hamilton as his Chief of Staff, can they bring society back from the brink of collapse? Sky One

Call the Midwife It’s now January 1965 and all are mourning the death of Winston Churchill.

Midwives Mother Mildred, Sister Julienne, Shelagh, Valerie and Trixie face evermore trying times serving the changing East End. BBC1

Death in Paradise When the crime drama returns there’ll be a new detective. Ralf Little will play DI Neville Parker, who’s dispatched to Saint Marie island from Manchester when a woman from his home city is killed. BBC1

what’s on and comfortable like a blanket, so I might work through all of [American guitarist] JJ Cale again.

Learning To speak better French. And I’ve got to relearn how to fly my helicopter because my licence is no longer current.

I need to make sure I’ve got my skills up to speed.

Scrolling I will be looking at the SkyDemon flying app if I’m going to renew my pilot’s licence. I’m involved in DriveTribe and FoodTribe, which are the TV presenter Richard social media platforms we [myself, Jeremy Clarkson Hammond, 50, lives and James May] run but in a village along the beyond that I’m not a Gloucestershire massive a scroller. borders with his wife Shopping In department stores for any gifts for my Mindy and their two family – but I never view daughters, Isabella, shopping as a hobby, 19 and Willow, 16. I prefer to buy online.

Buying I’ve bought myself THIS MONTH YOU’LL FIND ME: a new Morgan Motor Company car for Watching I haven’t yet watched my 50th birthday – a big treat to myself.

HBO drama Chernobyl – but a So there will be lots of road trips. lot of people keep telling me to, Visiting The South of France. Most so I’m going to make the effort. years for our family holiday we rent Reading Because I travel a lot, a big villa then invite so many friends I’ll often pick something up in that it always ends up really busy, like the airport to read. I’ll either grab hosting a two-week party, so it’s not some tacky thriller because I love it as relaxing as it should be. I’m always or I’ll reread some old favourites. happy to escape to the Lake District Listening To the stuff on my iPhone – my favourite place is Buttermere. again because I miss the single ✱ Richard Hammond’s Big premieres pleasure of going through my own exclusively on Discovery Channel record collection. It is so reassuring at 9pm, Wednesday 15 January.

WORDS: JASON BEST, NICK CANNON, SELINA MAYCOCK, SHARON SWEENEY. PHOTOS: AMAZON PRIME, BBC/NEAL STREET PRODUCTIONS, BBC/RED PLANET, CBS/AMAZON PRIME VIDEO, DISCOVERY CHANNEL, GETTY IMAGES, ITV, SKY, UNIVERSAL STUDIO

MY CULTURE DIARY

LISTEN UP

Here are three great lifestyle podcasts to listen to on your commute or during a workout…

Voices With Sally Morgan Hosted by Ms Morgan, aka Psychic Sally, this inspirational podcast features powerful women from all walks of life, who chat openly to Sally about their lives, setbacks and successes. Guests include Katherine Jenkins and Christine McGuinness. Apple Podcasts, Spotify

Table Manners Singer-songwriter Jessie Ware and her mum, Lennie, broadcast from their dinner table as they share food and the art of conversation in this delightful podcast. There’s a different guest every week, from the worlds of music, culture and politics. Acast

The Kelly Hoppen Show Want to develop or sharpen up your business skills?

Interior designer Kelly Hoppen interviews leading businesswomen, such as Jo Malone and June Sarpong.

Hoppen finds out how they started and expanded their enterprises.

Apple Podcasts, iTunes, Spotify

STREAM IT Our pick of what to watch, whenever you want Treadstone

For fans of the Jason Bourne novels and films, this spin-off series stars Jeremy Irvine playing a CIA spy, John Randolph Bentley, who gets caught in a deadly conspiracy.

Amazon Prime Video

Star Trek: Picard

Hollywood legend Patrick Stewart returns to his iconic Star Trek role of Jean-Luc Picard in this sci-fi series that follows the former captain on the next chapter of his life. Amazon Prime Video

Serious Black Jumper

Comedian Jayde Adams swaps her glitzy attire for a plain black turtleneck for her stand-up show, The Ballad of Kylie Jenner’s Old Face. She explores what it means to be a feminist today. Amazon Prime Video woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 175

HOT TICKETS

THE SHOWS AND EVENTS YOU CAN’T MISS

First-rate theatre

SWAN LAKE

With a superb cast and big names behind the scenes, Uncle Vanya should be in every culture lover’s diary.

In this new adaptation, Chekhov’s masterpiece lays bare the crumbling social order in Russia at the turn of the 20th century. It stars Toby Jones, Richard Armitage, Rosalind Eleazar and Aimee Lou Wood. 14 January2 May; haroldpintertheatre.com

UNCLE VANYA

Catch King Tut

GOLDEN TREASURES 176 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

A hundred years after Howard Carter discovered Tutankhamun’s tomb, the largest collection of its riches to travel outside Egypt is on display in London.

Tutankhamun: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh, presented by Viking Cruises, is at the Saatchi Gallery until 3 May; tutankhamun-london.com

ENCHANTING BALLETS Ballet fans are in for a treat: the Russian State Ballet of Siberia is touring four shows – Coppélia, Sleeping Beauty, Swan Lake and The Nutcracker – across 22 venues.

Featuring breathtaking dance skills, each show will be accompanied by a live orchestra. 2 January15 March; raymondgubbay. co.uk

what’s on

WHAT’S TRENDING Discover the traditions that are part of China’s most important holiday.

Chinese New Year

Dig out your lucky red clothes for Chinese New Year events to celebrate the Year of the Rat. Most take place on 25 and 26 January but the festivities run until 8 February – when you’ll see beautiful lantern festivals illuminating the evening sky. There will be spectacular parades, fireworks, Chinese food and crafts, and performances of traditional and contemporary Chinese music and dance.

Look out for the costumed lion and dragon dances, performed to bring good luck.

Performers make their way through Soho

BLITHE SPIRIT

Comedy classic

The stunning Dragon Dance in Trafalgar Square

One of our favourite funny women, Jennifer Saunders is back in Noël Coward’s show Blithe Spirit. Playing the decidedly off-kilter clairvoyant Madame Arcati, she’s a tour de force on tour.

22-25 January at the Theatre Royal Brighton, then travelling to Malvern, Bath, Cambridge, Richmond, Norwich and London; atgtickets.com

The London celebrations are the biggest outside Asia, taking place around Chinatown, Trafalgar Square and the West End, 25-26 January; visitlondon.com. In Manchester, there’ll be a parade with a 175ft golden dragon, flanked by dancers and drummers, and a red lantern festival, 25-26 January; visitmanchester.com. Other places to go to are Southampton (ukshaolintemple.com), Leeds and Liverpool. And if you can’t make it to any public events, you’ll find ideas to celebrate at home at chinesenewyear.net

WORDS: SHARON SWEENEY. PHOTOS: GUY BELL/ALAMY, IMAGEPLOTTER NEWS AND SPORTS/ALAMY, NOBBY CLARK, PAUL GISBY PHOTOGRAPHY/ALAMY

STRICTLY ON TOUR

Showtime glitz For a sparkling start to the year, you can’t beat the Strictly Come Dancing Live Arena Tour, which kicks off in Birmingham and takes in 32 venues across the UK and Dublin. Hosted by Stacey Dooley, there’ll be glitterballs, glamour and feel-good fun. 16 January-9 February; strictlycomedancinglive.com

BOOK NOW ✱ The incredibly talented BalletBoyz celebrate 20 years with a new show called Deluxe, touring the UK from 1 March-13 May; balletboyz.com ✱ Catch Craig Revel Horwood: The All Balls and Glitter Tour in which the Strictly judge will talk about his life –

with great music and plenty of gossip.

22 May-4 July; socomedy.co.uk ✱ Hear tenor Russell Watson singing some of his best-loved songs from the past 20 years at intimate venues across the UK, from 5 April-17 May; raymondgubbay.co.uk woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU! 177

Your complete guide to

RETURNING TO WORK IN YOUR From finding a role to suit you to brushing up on your interview skills, here’s everything you need to know about your exciting new start

40s

promotional feature

I

f you’ve taken a career break, been a stay-at-home mum or fancy a fresh challenge, going back to work can be daunting. Fortunately, there is plenty you can do to feel prepared.

✱ RECOGNISE YOUR

EXISTING SKILLS

If you’ve been at home with the kids, it can feel like you’ve put learning on hold. However, you’ve probably gained more skills than you think, such as creative problem-solving, multitasking, time management and good communication. They may not be well understood on a CV, but acknowledging how much of an asset you are should boost confidence. Plus, don’t forget all the things you’ve previously learnt in jobs and during education.

✱ UPDATE YOUR CV It could be decades since you last wrote a CV, so don’t redo an old version, start from scratch. Rather than describing previous roles, highlight your achievements in each. Use bullet points and action verbs eg organised, completed, secured or produced.

If you can’t remember much about your past work, dig out performance reviews or contact former colleagues to jog your memory. Include volunteering, community work, courses or studying you’ve undertaken, or any other ways you’ve gained skills, such as a small business or freelance work. Returners often undervalue what they can offer. Don’t try to hide your career gap – stating how long it was will avoid confusion. Keep your CV to one or two sides of A4 so you can prioritise what’s important. To finish, check for grammatical and spelling mistakes, and ask a friend to do the same.

✱ FIND A ROLE

THAT SUITS YOU Think about what you want from a job and how much flexibility you’d need – assessing this at the start will avoid awkward conversations later. Next, look for suitable jobs in a range of places, not just online. Word of mouth, former colleagues and contacting

companies you’d like to work for will boost your chances. Apply for full-time positions as well as part-time – there may be the possibility to job-share or a position they haven’t yet advertised.

Companies may also be open to flexible working once you’ve convinced them you’re right for the job. Alternatively, look for businesses that offer flexible working already, such as McDonald’s.

✱ WRITE AN ENGAGING COVERING LETTER

Every application needs a new cover letter but keep it succinct and pick the most salient points from your CV. Try to tick off the top four to six requirements from the advert, mention your break

factually (eg ‘Following an eight-year planned career break…’) and why you are keen to return to work. Research the company so you can explain why you would like to work for them specifically.

✱ BE CONFIDENT

IN INTERVIEWS

Preparation is key, so rehearse answers for questions you think you might be asked, focus on your achievements and imagine yourself succeeding – it’s great for calming nerves. Aim to connect with your interviewer and tell them what you have to offer. Speak slowly, articulate your thoughts and relax – you’re the same capable person you were before your break, just out of practice.

‘Working for McDonald’s enables me to be a mum – and a working mum’ CREW TRAINER NATALIE AND HER DAUGHTER BETH, A CREW MEMBER, EXPLAIN WHY THEIR JOBS GIVE THEM THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS NATALIE ‘Originally, I chose McDonald’s for flexibility – it enabled me to be a mum as well as a working mum, when normally you have to give up one or the other.

Since then, I’ve had a good balance of working life and time with my children. When Bethany left school, I advised her to work at McDonald’s as well. She was starting college and it meant she’d be able to earn money and get her education.’

BETH ‘I don’t really see it as working with my mum, I see it as

working with a friend. To get through a busy shift, we try to work together and not get stressed out with each other.

The most valuable skills I’ve learnt include time-keeping and communication.’

NATALIE ‘Since I’ve been here, I’ve discovered the opportunities on offer. A year in, an Apprenticeship was mentioned to me, which I took up. Achieving my qualification was one of my proudest moments. Sometimes, when you’re at home (I was a stay-at-home mum for 10 years), you become a mum and nothing else.

This was the first time in a long time where I did something just for me.’

FEELING INSPIRED? FIND OUT MORE Working at McDonald’s is more than just a job. Whatever you want to get out of your career, why not see what McDonald’s can do for you.

For more information visit people.mcdonalds.co.uk

I

Get read for mountain vie s in the

W

I

Lake cruising, medieval towns, lazy lunches and a fabulous train ride – enjoy Italy’s elegant Lake Como, plus Switzerland’s fashionable St Moritz

ith such wonderfully contrasting areas within the same country, ranging from lofty mountains that appear to puncture the sky to whitewashed villages with Arabic-influenced names, Italy is impossible to pigeonhole.

This marvellously varied tour focuses on the north.

We explore Lake Como, which Wordsworth called ‘a treasure whom the earth keeps to herself’, plus some stunning icons of northern Italy and Switzerland. Lake Como’s scenery takes the breath away – reflections of hills and snow-capped peaks are captured in the

deep blue waters, where pastel-coloured buildings and opulent villas line the shore.

Our visit to Lake Maggiore, which straddles Italy and Switzerland, provides amazing sights.

Almost Mediterranean in character, thanks to the climate, it’s lined with orange trees and palm trees, and a string of picturesque 19th-century towns. To the east is one of Switzerland’s most fashionable destinations – St Moritz. The iconic Bernina Express train transports us on a spectacular scenic journey through Poschiavo Valley to this chic mountain resort.

THE PRICE INCLUDES

✱ A lake cruise to beautiful Bellagio on Lake Como, with a private visit to the delightful Villa del Balbianello and its inspirational gardens ✱ A full-day visit to the chic resort of St Moritz, including a journey on the Bernina Express, one of the most spectacular railways in the Alps ✱ A visit to Bergamo, northern Italy’s most enchanting medieval town, on a guided tour ✱ Following in the footsteps of the ‘Grand Tour’ with a visit to Lake Maggiore and the town of Stresa ✱ A trip to Lugano, a Swiss lakeside town with some unmistakable Italian influences, including its piazzas and quaint alleyways

travel W&H

RECOMMENDED FOR YOU

EIGHT DAYS FROM ONLY

£819 PER PERSON*

Selected departures April to October 2020 Bernina Express

YOUR ITINERARY

DAY 1

ARRIVAL AT LAKE COMO From Milan Bergamo Airport, we transfer by coach to one of our specially selected four-star hotels.

DAY 2

LAKE COMO AND BELLAGIO This morning we take a private boat to the 18thcentury Villa del Balbianello for a guided tour of the villa, which has a renowned collection of art. The boat then takes us to the elegant village of Bellagio, perfect for a long, lazy lunch in a picturesque lakeside restaurant, before spending the afternoon exploring at your own pace.

PLUS, OF COURSE

✱ Return flights from a selection of regional airports with hotel transfers ✱ Seven nights in four-star accommodation inclusive of all local taxes, with breakfast and dinner.

Stays at the Grand Hotel Menaggio include daily breakfast only (dining available at a supplement) ✱ The services of a tour manager throughout

DAY 3

THE BERNINA EXPRESS First we ascend along the Valtellina, a classic Alpine valley with soaring peaks rising steeply on both sides. On reaching Tirano we board the Bernina Express to the summit at Ospizio Bernina, where you’re surrounded by stunning vistas over snowclad peaks. We descend to glamorous St Moritz for a spot of window-shopping or afternoon tea. More

Lake Como

eye-catching scenery awaits as we make our return trip to Lake Como for dinner.

DAY 4

LAKE MAGGIORE AND STRESA Take a stroll along Maggiore’s palm-lined promenade and enjoy fine views across the lake, where you can also take the short boat trip to Isola Bella, an island with a delightful terraced garden.

Back in Stresa you can relax at the bar of the Grand Hôtel des Iles Borromées, featured in Hemingway’s A Farewell to Arms. For panoramic views, take the cable car to the summit of Monte Mottarone. Later we return to our hotel for dinner.

DAY 5

FREE DAY

You are free to explore as you wish and could perhaps take the boat to the lakeside town of Como or visit the gardens of Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo – an outstanding botanical paradise.

DAY 6

LUGANO

We take a morning trip to Lugano, where traditional

Swiss values and more laid-back Latin influences overlap to make for a fascinating complement of cultures. There’s time for lunch and to explore the lanes before we return to our hotel for dinner.

DAY 7

BERGAMO

After breakfast, we visit the town of Bergamo, said by many to be the most beautiful town in northern Italy, for a morning guided tour.

DAY8

RETURN HOME Transfer to the airport for your flight back home.

TO BOOK OR FOR A FREE BROCHURE Call 01283 742348 OR VISIT wahriviera.co.uk

TERMS & CONDITIONS *Additional entrance costs may apply. Prices are per person, based on two sharing and subject to finite availability. Images used in conjunction with Riviera Travel.

Offer operated by and subject to the booking conditions of Riviera Travel Ltd, ABTA V4744, ATOL 3430, a company wholly independent of woman&home, published by TI Media Limited. Prices correct at time of going to print.

LAKE GARDA

VENICE & VERONA Explore some of the highlights that northern Italy has to offer

T

his tour is a wonderful blend of some of the finest sights in northern Italy. First, Lake Garda, where waves lap gently on the shingle shoreline, with the snow-capped Dolomite Mountains in the background. Then

Venice, a unique city full of cultural delights such as the Doge’s Palace, St Mark’s Basilica and the Grand Canal. Finally, Verona, one of the most romantic cities you’ll ever find, and the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.

8 DAYS HALF-BOARD FROM ONLY

£699 PER PERSON*

Selected departures April to October 2020

Limone sul Garda, Lake Garda

travel W&H

RECOMMENDED FOR YOU

PERSONALISE YOUR HOLIDAY Why not attend the Verona Opera Festival, the world’s oldest openair opera festival? Set in a Roman amphitheatre, when the lights dim, the magic begins and the most beautiful voices fill the air. It’s sure to make your holiday extra special. From £61pp.

THE PRICE INCLUDES

✱ Classic or Undiscovered guided tour of Venice ✱ A day exploring Lake Garda, on land and by boat ✱ Classic or Undiscovered guided tour of Verona ✱ Visit a local vineyard, with a guided tour of the cellars and a tasting of the superb wines ✱ A day in the Dolomites ✱ Two free days to further explore at leisure or relax ✱ Return flights from a selection of regional airports, plus all hotel transfers ✱ Seven nights in a choice of three-star to four-star superior accommodation, inclusive of all local taxes, with breakfast and dinner ✱ The services of our experienced tour manager

YOUR ITINERARY

DAY 1

ARRIVAL IN LAKE GARDA Fly to Milan, Bergamo, Venice, Verona or Treviso.

On arrival, transfer to the lakeside resorts of Malcesine or Riva del Garda for the next seven nights.

DAY 2

LAKE GARDA TOUR Discover picturesque Lake Garda by boat and coach, stopping first in Salò and then Sirmione.

DAY 3

THE DOLOMITES

Spend the day in the Dolomites and take in some of the world’s finest Alpine scenery. You may even

see chamois, ibex and golden eagles.

DAY 4

FREE DAY

You have the entire day to do as you wish. Riva del Garda has a charming Old Town and a bell tower affording wonderful views of the lake, while Malcesine has a pretty medieval town and its very own castle.

DAY 5

VENICE CLASSIC OR UNDISCOVERED TOUR Depart early today for Venice and enjoy a Classic walking tour to discover its highlights. If you prefer to unearth Venice’s lesser-known gems, our Undiscovered tour visits

An ornate Venice Carnival mask. Above: Malcesine, Lake Garda

places that are off the well-beaten path. After the tour, there’s free time to explore as you wish.

DAY 6

DAY8

RETURN FLIGHT Transfer to the airport for your return flight.

FREE DAY

The day is at leisure for you to explore or relax.

DAY 7

VERONA CLASSIC OR UNDISCOVERED TOUR Travel to Verona, the setting of Romeo and Juliet. Uncover its main sights on a guided Classic tour of the medieval centre.

Should you prefer to get to know its less-explored treasures, choose our Undiscovered tour.

Afterwards, you’ll have free time to explore as you wish.

TO BOOK OR FOR A FREE BROCHURE Call 01283 742348 OR VISIT

wahriviera.co.uk TERMS & CONDITIONS *Additional entrance costs may apply. Prices are per person, based on two sharing and subject to finite availability. Images used in conjunction with Riviera Travel.

Offer operated by and subject to the booking conditions of Riviera Travel Ltd, ABTA V4744, ATOL 3430, a company wholly independent of woman&home, published by TI Media Limited.

Prices correct at time of going to print.

Set sail on a RHINE CRUISE to

SWITZERLAND Your fabulous trip begins in Cologne, from where you’ll travel in style along the Rhine to picturesque Switzerland

W

elcome aboard your first-class river cruise ship, your luxury floating hotel for the next seven nights. From the exceptional full-board cuisine to the luxurious cabins and suites, you’ll very soon relax as we journey south from Cologne through the Rhine Valley to magnificent Switzerland.

travel W&H

RECOMMENDED FOR YOU

8 DAYS FROM ONLY

Lucerne’s medieval architecture

£1,599

Beautiful Strasbourg

PER PERSON*

Selected departures May to October 2020

YOUR ITINERARY

DAY 1

DAY4

ARRIVAL IN COLOGNE

SPEYER

Fly to Düsseldorf or Cologne, or take the Eurostar to Brussels and transfer by coach to the ship.

Unwind on board while cruising through the winelands, before berthing in Speyer. Enjoy discovering this medieval gem as you stroll through its streets.

DAY 2

KOBLENZ

Spend the morning at leisure on board, before arriving in Koblenz; explore the city and waterfront.

DAY 3

RHINE GORGE AND RUDESHEIM Cruise through the Rhine Gorge before arriving in Rüdesheim, with time to wander its narrow streets.

DAY 5

STRASBOURG More beautiful landscapes unfold on our cruise this morning, which takes us to Strasbourg. Enjoy a guided tour of the capital of Alsace.

DAY 6

BREISACH AND THE BLACK FOREST Absorb the vistas of the

PLEASE NOTE ON SOME DATES, THIS CRUISE OPERATES IN REVERSE ORDER. YOU WILL EXPERIENCE THE SAME TOURS AND VISITS

THE PRICE INCLUDES

✱ Exploring medieval Koblenz ✱ A visit to Rüdesheim, centre of the Rhineland wine trade ✱ Cruising through the Rhine Gorge ✱ An evening in Speyer ✱ A guided tour of Strasbourg ✱ Visiting the old walled town of Breisach ✱ A tour of the Black Forest and lakeside town of Titisee ✱ A tour of some of the finest Swiss Alpine scenery – the Jungfrau and Eiger mountains, and the lakeside town of Lucerne ✱ All meals on board, from dinner on your day of arrival until breakfast on your day of departure, including welcome cocktails and dinner, plus the Captain’s Dinner ✱ Return flights from a selection of regional airports or standard class seat on Eurostar from London St Pancras International and TGV ✱ Seven nights on board in your choice of luxury cabin or suite, all with river view ✱ The services of a Riviera Travel cruise director and tour manager

Vosges and Black Forest as we arrive in Breisach. Later, we drive through the heart of this stunning region to the lakeside town of Titisee.

DAY 7

BERNESE OBERLAND AND LUCERNE Take a rail journey into the magnificent Bernese Oberland, then drive to Lucerne and enjoy some free time discovering one of Switzerland’s most beautiful cities.

DAY 8

RETURN HOME Transfer to the airport or train station for your return journey.

TO BOOK OR FOR A FREE BROCHURE Call 01283 742348 OR VISIT wahriviera.co.uk

TERMS & CONDITIONS *Additional entrance costs may apply. Prices are per person, based on two sharing and subject to finite availability. Images used in conjunction with Riviera Travel.

Offer operated by and subject to the booking conditions of Riviera Travel Ltd, ABTA V4744, ATOL 3430, a company wholly independent of woman&home, published by TI Media Limited. Prices correct at time of going to print.

DON’T FORGET TO VISIT

www.womanandhome.com

Charities

Photo: Emmanuel Keller, flickr.com/tambako

Red alert for the Sumatran tiger. Fauna & Flora International seeks action from readers of Woman & Home in response to severe threat from poachers. 3 February deadline.

Tiger populations are dreadfully fragile.

The signs suggest that FFI’s approach is working, as patrols are reporting more evidence of tigers.

Yet if FFI cannot recruit more rangers to protect the tigers against the increased efforts of the poachers, then all our good work could be undone.

That’s why it’s absolutely vital that we expand our patrols to protect tigers from poachers – and work towards greater protection for their delicate habitat.

If we’re going to save the Critically Endangered Sumatran tiger from complete extinction, it’s crucial that we have the means to take action now.

FFI must act now to save the Sumatran tiger.

The charity is asking for Woman & Home readers to make an urgent contribution today, which could help them save this beautiful big cat.

Dear readers of Woman & Home: Fauna & Flora International (FFI) needs your support to raise funds which could help save the Sumatran tiger. Here are some of the vital items we need: £5,776 could pay for a pair of motorbikes, to help rangers access remote locations £1,925 could pay for a session of field training, helping to get new rangers into the forest £448 could buy uniforms, rucksacks and boots for 4 rangers - vital equipment for patrols. £72 could help cover the cost of wildlife crime investigations to help convict traffickers £32 could help buy charging units for telephones; essential to getting extra help if poachers are spotted on patrol.

Any donations, large or small, could help save the Critically Endangered Sumatran tiger from the poaching syndicates driving them to extinction.

Photo: Gill Shaw

Cut the coupon below and return it to FFI, together with your gift, to help save the Critically Endangered Sumatran tiger. Alternatively, go to www.FFIsumatrantiger.org or call 01223 749019. Thank you.

I want to help save the remaining 350 Sumatran tigers today, with a donation of £________ Title

Forename

Surname Address Postcode “If you value the natural world – if you think it should be protected for its own sake as well as humanity’s – then please support Fauna & Flora International.”

Sir David Attenborough Fauna & Flora International vice-president Please send a gift, by no later than 3 February to help safeguard the future survival of the last few remaining wild Sumatran tigers.

Together, we could save the Sumatran tiger from extinction – but only if we take action immediately.

To take action which could help save the Sumatran tiger please go to www.FFIsumatrantiger. org or cut the coupon.

If the coupon to the bottom right is missing, please send your cheque (payable to FFI) to: Freepost RTTH-TXTL-AJRK, Fauna & Flora International, The David Attenborough Building, Pembroke Street, Cambridge, CB2, 3QZ by 3 February at the latest.

Photo: Debbie Martyr/FFI

DIRECTORY

• £83,131 is needed to help us fund more rangers and step up action against the poachers in Kerinci Seblat National Park.

• This is one of the final strongholds of the incredibly rare Sumatran tiger.

• FFI’s work here could be all that stands between the Sumatran tiger and extinction.

This Critically Endangered tiger has been pushed to the edge of extinction – as few as 350 remain. Give to stop the poachers at www.FFIsumatrantiger.org Latest figures show around 350 Sumatran tigers remain - down from 500. The figures, from the Sumatran Ministry of Forestry, show how the ruthless assault from poachers is pushing this magnificent creature right to the edge of extinction.

Fauna & Flora International (FFI) has put out an urgent call to the global community to save the last Sumatran tigers currently existing in the wild – and specifically to employ more rangers.

FFI is urgently seeking funds to step up their crucial conservation programme in Kerinci Seblat National Park, Sumatra, Indonesia. In order to safeguard the future existence of these magnificent creatures, it is vital that more rangers are employed.

Right now, the Sumatran tiger faces a number of very serious threats, which are putting their very survival in jeopardy. And, sadly, they are all man-made.

Poaching activity has reached unprecedented levels. Hunters make good money from the tiger’s beautiful skin and demand is constantly growing.

FFI’s investigations show that there is a huge demand for tiger bone, which is used in traditional Asian medicines, and black market prices make this grisly trade all too profitable.

These grave threats have been exacerbated by a very serious loss of habitat. In the last ten to 15 years, natural forest cover in Sumatra has been slashed by almost a staggering 40%.

With such a dramatic loss of habitat, these majestic forest dwellers are struggling to survive and have been designated as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List, making the Sumatran tiger one of the most endangered tiger subspecies on the planet. This is a rating reserved for animals that face an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild.

With as few as 350 Sumatran tigers now existing in the wild, there is no time to lose. Thanks to the dedicated work of FFI’s Tiger Protection and Conservation Programme, the numbers have stabilised in the Kerinci Seblat National Park, but beyond the protection of the National Park the species is still under severe threat.

The illegal poaching syndicates are ruthless and will stop at nothing to supply the market. Other poachers are also in the area, sabotaging FFI’s conservation work. In 2016, bird poachers vandalised 16 camera traps set by the tiger conservation team, which meant vital evidence was lost.

This is an ongoing battle, but it is one we must win. Debbie Martyr, FFI Team Leader of the Kerinci Tiger Project in Sumatra, says: “Intelligence led law endorcement since 2017 has put 14 key tiger traffckers behind bars. But we urgently need more equipment and patrols to stop the poaching. Your support could help us stop the slaughter and save this magnificent animal.”.

Less than 400 Sumatran tigers remain - down from 500.

Urgent support needed for action plan.

We must act now to save them.

I enclose a cheque to Fauna & Flora International OR

I wish to pay by credit/debit card

Card No:

Expiry Date: Issue Number:

Security code: (Maestro only)

See the difference you are making To show how your support is helping, we will keep you informed of the progress on this and other important work by post. We will also send you carefully selected projects where you could help make a vital difference and invite you to events to see what your support has acheived. If you don’t want these updates by post, just tick here Your personal details are kept secure and are never sold, traded or rented. See full details at www.fauna-flora.org/privacy or call for more information.

YES! Please also keep in touch via email at:

FFI is successfully working with local law enforcement and communities to build cases against the poachers.Your support today can help stop the senseless killing of Sumatran tigers and their cubs.

Return to: Freepost RTTH-TXTL-AJRK, Fauna & Flora International, The David Attenborough Building, Pembroke Street, CAMBRIDGE CB2 3QZ or go to www.FFIsumatrantiger.org.

Registered Charity No.1011102. Registered Company No. 2677068.

SDPRS19-STGWAH

To advertise here please call 020 3148 2474

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Weight Loss and WeLLbeing

No matter how hard you have tried in the past, The Metabolic Weight Loss Programme could just be the answer to losing your weight and keeping it off once and for all!

Rachel Ricketts, Weight Loss Consultant

It

can be extremely frustrating no matter what you do, you just can’t get to the weight you want to be. If you have reached the stage where enough is enough and you want to get your weight under control once and for all, read on!

Improving your health and wellbeing None of us need to be reminded how being overweight can affect so many different areas of one’s life, to name just a few: appearance, self-esteem, health, well-being and fitness. It is one thing knowing this, but what do you do when you feel you have tried everything?

Feeling and looking better As the weight falls off, time after time clients remark how much better they feel about themselves and how their energy levels have increased. Typical health improvements include blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels returning to normal ranges and aches and pains reducing or disappearing!

With an average weight loss of 7-14lb a month for clients and hundreds of hand written testimonials and reviews, Rachel’s results speak for themselves.

Help is at hand to resolve your weight problem! Rachel and her team have helped over 7,000 clients of all ages to reduce their weight successfully with the Metabolic Weight Loss Programme. Many come to see her as a last resort and are delighted to have achieved and successfully maintained the weight they want to be.

A sustainable way to lose and maintain your weight The Metabolic Weight Loss Programme is designed to help you make the necessary changes in your eating habits, increase your metabolic rate and to be able maintain the weight that you want to be. It is structured, easy to follow and there are no pills, diet shakes or meal replacements.

Clients often comment on just how impressed their doctors or consultants are with their weight loss and health improvements. ‘My doctor is very happy - I’ve been able to come off blood pressure and cholesterol medication.’ Another client’s doctor said, ‘All my lady patients on thyroid medication are struggling to lose weight, but you’ve lost 2 ½ stone despite being on thyroxine!’

One-to-one support

Time and again, clients comment that they couldn’t have lost their weight without the Metabolic Weight Loss Programme, personalised support and encouragement of Rachel and her team.

Consultations are available every 7-10 days with email support as needed. For those who are not able to visit the centre, a very successful remote support service is provided throughout the UK and overseas. Distance is no object!

Call now for a free consultation – absolutely no obligation.

01342 327396 www.rachelrickettsweightloss.co.uk

To advertise here please call 020 3148 2474

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Reading a story at bedtime is the most magical part of Grandad’s day. His stairlift helps him to carry on with life, just as normal, so he never has to miss those special moments.

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Your STARS

Astrologer Wendy Bristow’s predictions for the month of February

PISCES

ARIES 21 MARCH – 20 APRIL

On the 8th, romantic Venus gives your love life a pre-Valentine’s boost. And while love remains lovely, there’s a challenge as the month proceeds.

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Famous Aquarians: Holly Willoughby; Amanda Holden; Rosamund Pike; Gemma Arterton

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22 MAY – 22 JUNE

Sorry to say it – prepare for confusion.

After the 3rd your ruler’s placement makes for mix-ups and mixed messages.

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CANCER 23 JUNE – 23 JULY

If you’re prone to money worries, be aware the 9th’s full moon highlights them.

The good news? Around the 19th you help a partner fix their biggest headache.

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The Leo full moon on the 9th marks a drama. Strong feelings come to a head and spill right over. If you need to explain yourself, do it before the 17th.

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Close relationships are in the spotlight.

Unfortunately, your ruler does a switcheroo on the 17th and even the simplest conversations go horribly wrong.

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LIBRA 23 SEPTEMBER – 23 OCTOBER

Whatever’s going on in your closest relationships, the days following the 8th feel surprisingly painful. There’s an opportunity here, though, to heal the real source of the pain… give it a go.

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SCORPIO

21 APRIL – 21 MAY

GEMINI

24 JULY – 23 AUGUST

24 AUGUST – 22 SEPTEMBER

TAURUS Keep your head down around the 21st when someone’s temper could suddenly erupt your way. It may tempt you to quit your job or dump them. Think twice!

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LEO

VIRGO

20 FEBRUARY – 20 MARCH

Romantic Venus sends big love your way until the 7th and communicative Mercury steps up your powers of connection until the 17th. Then, though, he flips and conversations go to pot. Careful!

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horoscopes

24 OCTOBER – 22 NOVEMBER

Star sign of the month AQUARIUS 20 JANUARY – 19 FEBRUARY

Communication hassles could take the edge off birthday celebrations. The 9th is big for partnerships.

YOUR MONTHS AHEAD Any tendencies to self-sabotage are accentuated. Everything gets easier in December when lucky Jupiter is in your sign for a whole year. Call 0905 789 4160* and choose weekly, monthly and yearly updates.

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From the 16th things get serious as a tricky issue needs sorting, climaxing from the 21st to the 26th – a challenging time.

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SAGITTARIUS 23 NOVEMBER – 22 DECEMBER

Need to get something sorted?

Do it before the 15th, when you’re a powerhouse with reserves of energy.

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CAPRICORN 23 DECEMBER – 19 JANUARY

As if life hasn’t been full-on enough, on the 16th Mars ratchets up anger, energy and libido. Watch you don’t fall into old and unhelpful habits around the 25th.

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last laugh

City lights or country fireside? Our new columnists mull over winter’s highlights

KATIE FFORDE The bestselling author lives in the Cotswolds and is a country girl at heart

‘The only thing I like to run up are bills’

‘My strategies involve fires, candles and fairy lights’

That big grey duvet of winter sky can bring on a Henny Penny feeling – which makes this the perfect time to conquer the Great Indoors – shops, galleries, museums, theatres, restaurants.

Yep, I’m a city mouse. Rural life involves waaaayyyy too much exercise. Whenever I visit a friend who lives in the countryside, they invariably make me climb two Alps and rappel back down for some dressage and a little light elk-stalking before lunch.

It’s exhausting. The only thing I like to run up are bills.

Not that London life need bankrupt you. Just strolling the city streets, with their welcoming bookshops, coffee aromas and fairy lights flickering on the inky Thames, makes me feel as though I’m in a Hugh Grant rom-com. And so many of London’s cultural highlights are free. With Valentine’s Day looming, how does a middle-aged woman find love? Well, perusing paintings and poking around museums is a good place to start.

I was staring, perplexed, at a piece of surrealist art in the Tate Modern, when an equally bewildered Silver Fox standing next to me, joked, ‘I think good art is in the wallet of the beholder, don’t you?’ Buoyed up by mischievous camaraderie, this handsome stranger and I spent the next hour pointing at ridiculous artwork, giggling irreverently.

A day or so later, I was in the British Library’s Treasures Gallery, marvelling at the Magna Carta, Shakespeare’s First Folio, Leonardo da Vinci’s notebook, handwritten music from Handel and the Beatles… I was peering, captivated, at Jane Austen’s writing desk, when a twinkly-eyed man enquired if I also liked the Brontë sisters.

‘I am a total Brontësaurus,’ he quipped. ‘I have an encyclopaedic knowledge of those literary lionesses.’ This was a conversation I just had to continue over coffee – which, dear reader, turned into coffee in ‘perverted commas’.

What a city – where you can see the world’s greatest artefacts for free, while possibly adding an interesting specimen to your own collection. Happy hunting!

Best Laid Plans by Kathy Lette (£16.99, Bantam Press) is out now

I actually quite like winter, but admit this and people look at you as if it’s your fault it’s rainy, cold and no one’s seen the sun for days. Obviously the sort of winter I like is when the weather is crisp, cold and clear, when the trees show up against the sky as if they were cut from paper, and frost sparkles on the hedges.

However, I do accept that we get more of the first kind of day and so I have strategies, and they mostly involve fires and candles, but fairy lights make their contribution.

I love the day – possibly in late September – when I first switch on the chilli lights that nestle among the ladles, potato mashers and cheese graters that hang over the Rayburn in the kitchen. They cheer my heart and look particularly nice when they are the only lights on (when I have forgotten to turn them off and have to go back in to do it, disturbing the dogs who then think they need another bedtime biscuit).

You can never have too many candles either. Of course, you do have to make sure that they can’t set anything on fire, but I also love that moment in the day, just before it’s time to draw the curtains, when I can’t put off lighting them any longer.

Lighting the wood burner is my husband’s job – I sit watching all the random rubbish (cheese boxes, dog food bags, dried orange peel) get stuffed into it.

A few seconds later, it crackles into life and then it’s time to put on the logs.

And if after Christmas, when the house looks bare and there may only be one string of fairy lights snaking their way along the mantelpiece, there is spring to look forward to.

Valentine’s Day is traditionally when the birds start singing again, but actually it happens a lot earlier and I defy anyone not to feel cheered by the first blackbird. February 14 is when it’s time to get out the red, heart-shaped lights and put them on the dinner table.

As well as candles, of course.

A Springtime Affair by Katie Fforde (£14.99, Century) is out on 20 Feb.

194 woman&home IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU!

PHOTOS: LIZ McAULAY, ANGELA SPAIN, PIXELEYES

KATHY LETTE Comedian Kathy has been a girl about town in London for 31 years

TOWN & COUNTRY

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