HaveringLife magazine Winter 2012 by HaveringLife

MAGAZINE CHRISTMAS 2012

It’s

party Stunning accessories for the home and fashion for both ladies and gents

big spender Hey

Christmas in Havering The very best events across the borough from Christmas shopping to cupcake making

<RXU JXLGH WR ¿QGLQJ WKH SHUIHFW JLIW for every member of the family

@HaveringLife

welcome

Hello and welcome to the very first edition of HaveringLife magazine. We are very proud to bring you the very best that Havering has to offer, be it food, fashion must-haves, events or gifts. Our huge Christmas gift guide has stacks of ideas for mum, dad, the kids and even the dog. There’s something for everyone, from cheap stocking fillers to really special ‘been-saving-all-year’ gifts. Our food section brings you hints and tips to make your Christmas dinner a real cracker, plus we meet up with local girl Serena Robinson who talks us through Christmas hamper making. Becky Gibson from The Essex Wildlife Trust shows us how to enjoy the great outdoors even when the temperature drops, plus there’s all the latest fashion and interiors treats to feast your eyes on. Have a wonderful Christmas and a very Happy New Year. Settle down with a hot chocolate or mulled wine and enjoy the mag.

STYLE GUIDE

Blog: www.haveringlife.tumblr.com Website: www.haveringlife.co.uk Email: hello@haveringlife.co.uk Twitter: @HaveringLife Facebook: Search ‘HaveringLife’

FOR HER

Sequin stripeforjumper, £28 Written, designed and published by HaveringLife. Whilst HaveringLife promises to take the utmost care with submitted material, responsibility cannot be accepted loss of or damage therein. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent from HaveringLife. Whilst every care of information accuracy is taken, Jane Norman,buy online and everything is published in good faith, we cannot accept responsibility for any errors or consequences arising as a result of incorrect information.www.janenorman.co.uk Views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. This publication and HaveringLife is in no way associated nor affiliated with Havering Council or any other company.

Your wardrobe must-haves this party season

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contents The bes

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KIDS

40 0

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£175, Mama ster’ Rocking Ho rse s & Papas, The Brewe ry, Romford

06 | Christmas Gift Guide Gifts you can buy locally for all the family, to suit all budgets 25 | Events Diary From Christmas shopping evenings to cupcake making and music events 33 | Fashion Styles guides for him and for her 40 | Food & Drink Food news in the ‘Chef’s Corner’ plus interview with Serena Robinson, hamper making extraordinaire 53 | Interiors Beautiful things to fill your house with this Christmas 57 | Out & About See how you can help the Essex Wildlife Trust this winter and explore the beauty of Bedfords Country Park 5

STYLE GUIDE

FOR HER Your wardrobe must-haves this party season

Sequin stripe jumper, £28, Jane Norman,buy online at www.janenorman.co.uk

Top £19.99, H&M, Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, www hm.com

Top 3 party dresses

Gold skater skirt by Lashes, £45, House of Fraser, Lakeside, www.houseoffraser.co.uk

3 2

1. Mela dark red shirred waist lace dress, £25, New Look, Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, www.newlook.com. 2. Grey baroque peplum dress, £39.50, Dorothy Perkins, 127-132 High Street, Hornchurch, www.dorothyperkins.com.3. Flock spot prom dress, £49, M & co, 55-57 Station Road, Upminster, www.mandco.com

GIFT GUIDE

The best gifts for…

HER

Silver Meshed Crystal Clutch Bag £100, Debenhams, Romford

STYLE GUIDE

FOR HER Your wardrobe must-haves ‘Ambiray this party season

Sequin stripe jumper, £28, Jane Norman,buy online ‘All the best’ GiftatSet, www.janenorman.co.uk

£20.95, Lush, Romford

Candleholder & Aura’ by Swarovski Scented Candle (set), £97, Top £19.99, H&M, Liberty Swarovski, Romford Shopping Centre, Romford, www hm.com

Top 3 party dresses Gingerbread Man Charm, £30, Pandora, Romford

Gold skater skirt by Lashes, £45, House of Fraser, Lakeside, www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Jean Paul Gaultier Classique EDP 50ml £54.99, Superdrug, Upminster

GIFT GUIDE

Ladies Pink Linking Watch, £49.99, TK Maxx, Romford

Stud Gem Laptop Case, £22, Topshop, Lakeside

Little Birds Willow Decoration Heart Design in White, £3.50, Wilkinson, Romford

GIFT GUIDE GIFT GUIDE

The best gifts for…

HIM

CitizenDiesel Eco-Drive Tone Bracelet men’sTwo black strap watch Watch £399, H Samuel, £309 at H Samuel, The Romford Mall, Romford www.hsamuel.co.uk

STYLE GUIDE

FOR HER

Emporio Armani Steel Carbon Fibre Men’s Your wardrobe Cufflinks, £99.99, Beaverbrooks, Romford must-haves

Sequin stripe jumper, £28, Jane Norman,buy online at www.janenorman.co.uk

this party season Top £19.99, H&M, Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, www hm.com

Top 3 party dresses

CK Encounter 50ml, £36.99, Superdrug, Upminster

Gold skater skirt by Lashes, £45, House of Fraser, Lakeside, www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Aston Martin DBS 1:14 scale Radio Controlled Car, £24, 1. Mela dark red shirred waist lace dress, £25, New Look, Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, Debenhams, Romford www.newlook.com. 2. Grey baroque peplum dress, £39.50, Dorothy Perkins, 127-132 High Street,

Hornchurch, www.dorothyperkins.com.3. Flock spot prom dress, £49, M & co, 55-57 Station Road, Upminster, www.mandco.com

GIFT GUIDE

Bag, £29.99, H&M, Romford Technical Headphones, £44.99, Superdry, Romford

Ted’s Tool Kit Washbag by Ted Baker, £15, Boots, Upminster

Make Your Own Home Brew Premium Lager Kit, £15, The Range, Romford

STYLE GUIDE

FOR HER Your wardrobe must-haves this party season

Sequin stripe jumper, £28, Jane Norman,buy online at www.janenorman.co.uk

Top £19.99, H&M, Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, www hm.com

Top 3 party dresses

Gold skater skirt by Lashes, £45, House of Fraser, Lakeside, www.houseoffraser.co.uk

3 2

GIFT GUIDE

The best gifts for…

KIDS

‘Chester’ Rocking Horse

£175, Mamas & Papas, The Brewery, Romford 15

STYLE GUIDE

FOR HER Your wardrobe must-haves this party season

Sequin stripe jumper, £28, Jane Norman,buy online at www.janenorman.co.uk

Top £19.99, H&M, Liberty

FurbyShopping Cool in Centre, Black, Romford, £59.99, The Entertainer, www hm.comRomford

Top 3 party dresses

Gold skater skirt by Lashes, £45, House of Fraser, Lakeside, www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Die Cast Military Vehicle With Accessories, £1, Poundland, Romford

3 2

30 VTech Bath Friends Turtle, £15.99, Argos, Hornchurch

GIFT GUIDE

Donkey Soft Chime Toy by Pink Lemonade, £5.40, Mamas and Papas, Romford

Thomas The Tank Insulated Lunch Bag, £5, Matalan, Romford

Little Miss Santa Costume, from £12, Sainsburys, Hornchurch

Sparky 33cm Soft Toy, £14, The Disney Store, Romford 17

IFT

DG E IS L STYLE NA GUIDE O RS FOR E PYour wardrobeHER

Sequin stripe jumper, £28, Jane Norman,buy online at www.janenorman.co.uk

must-haves this party season

Top £19.99, H&M, Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, www hm.com

Top 3 party dresses

Gold skater skirt by Lashes, £45, House of Fraser, Lakeside, www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Loves List in Medium Frame, £12.99, Pickle Pie Creations, order online at www.facebook.com/PicklePieCreations

Personalised Wooden Message Star, £5, Silver Tree Designs, order online at www.facebook.com/Silvertreedesigns

30 Personalised Chocolate Bars, from £3.69, Choccasions, order online at www.choccasions.com

Personalised Gifts

Money boxes • Message hangers • Keyrings • Noticeboards • Badges Acrylic letters & bunting • Keepsake boxes • Canvases • Magnets Visit us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/Silvertreedesigns Email: contactus@silvertreedesigns.co.uk Call: 07828 635090

GIFT GUIDE

The best gifts for…

PETS

60ltr Big BiOrb with Light in Silver Coldwater Aquarium Starter Kit £150, Pets at Home, Romford

STYLE GUIDE

FOR HER Your wardrobe must-haves this party season

Sequin stripe jumper, £28, Jane Norman,buy Cat Bunk online Beds, at £50, www.janenorman.co.uk order online at

www.baxterandsnow.co.uk

Good Boy Doggy Dolittles Top Duck, £19.99,£3.75, H&M, Liberty Wilkinson, Romford Shopping Centre, Romford, www hm.com

Top 3 party dresses

Sardine Cat Christmas Gift Set, £4, Pets at Home, Romford

Gold skater skirt by Lashes, £45, House of Fraser, Lakeside, www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Carrot shaped rabbit bowl,

1. Mela dark red shirred waist lace dress, £25, New Look, Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, £5.25, order online at www.newlook.com. 2. Grey baroque peplum dress, £39.50, Dorothy Perkins, 127-132 High Street, www.amazon.co.uk Hornchurch, www.dorothyperkins.com.3. Flock spot prom dress, £49, M & co, 55-57 Station Road, Upminster, www.mandco.com

GIFT GUIDE

‘The Boss’ Dog Bowl, £2.99, QD, Romford

Good Boy Dog Teasers, £2, Tesco, Roneo Corner

Dog Santa Suit, From £4.99, The Range, Romford

STYLE GUIDE

FOR HER Your wardrobe must-haves this party season

Sequin stripe jumper, £28, Jane Norman,buy online at www.janenorman.co.uk

Top £19.99, H&M, Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, www hm.com Gold skater skirt by Lashes, £45, House of Fraser, Lakeside, www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Top party dresses The3dog divas aim is to promote responsible ownership and demonstrate that ALL dog breeds are capable of great obedience and companionship. My passion and area of expertise involves a more troubled area of dog ownership, and one where most owners are unable to pinpoint the cause of and how to rectify the situation. Aggression is a growing issue for many notorious breeds but it’s a myth that only certain breeds are affected.

My mission as the dog diva is to help those owners get some control back and work alongside their companion.

Like every Glamorous diva I need a personal assistant and this for me is my beautiful Doberman Naala. She is a prime example of how the right handling approach can give you an in tune working and living environment. I’m here to demonstrate that even basic training techniques will allow your

1. Mela dark red shirred waist lace dress, £25, New Look, Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, dog to gain general etiquette and alsoDorothy educate people importance www.newlook.com. 2. Grey baroque peplum dress, £39.50, Perkins, 127-132 on Highthe Street, Hornchurch, www.dorothyperkins.com.3. prom dress, £49, 55-57 Station Road, of respect that both manFlock andspot dog require forM a& co, harmonious relationship. Upminster, www.mandco.com

Specialists in canine behaviourists and animal trainers for television and other media sources, as well as providing private dog training sessions and advice for all dog owners. Mobile: 07841 431678 Landline: 01376 343905 emma@thedogdiva.co.uk www.thedogdiva.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK

Open the Door to Christmas

EVENTS

DIARY

7 December 7.30-10pm Prepare for Christmas with wreath making and unusual present wrapping. The £5 entry will help support Cats Protection (Hornchurch & District) and there will also be tap dancing, prize draw, a raffle and refreshments. Harold Wood Memorial Hall

The very best events in Havering in the coming weeks Iron Cupcake Challenge

18 November 6.30-8pm (Home for Christmas) 20 November 6.30-8pm (Snap, Crackle and Plop) Are you a baker or an eater? Cakes at this competition are scored by eaters paying £5 entry. Bakers get in free with a batch of cakes, which must adhere to the theme of the evening, for example ‘Snap, crackle and plop’ which must include three different textures. Ingrebourne Centre, Harold Wood 25

STYLE GUIDE

FOR HER Your wardrobe must-haves this party season

Sequin stripe jumper, £28, Jane Norman,buy online at www.janenorman.co.uk

Top £19.99, H&M, Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, www hm.com

“There really is something for

Gold skater skirt by Lashes, £45, House of Fraser, Lakeside, www.houseoffraser.co.uk everyone at this

Top 3 party dresses year’s events. From Postman Pat® and Jess in

Romford to gift fayres in Rainham; making Christmas crackers in Hornchurch to dressing up as elves in Collier Row. There’s the chance to make your own decorations in Harold Hill and relive the Olympic Opening Ceremony in Elm Park. I hope everyone will come along to one or more of these special festivities.”

- Cllr Michael White, Leader of the Council

Extra Romford Market shopping days this Christmas Open every Sunday in December Open every day from 14th December Open Christmas Eve

EVENTS

Havering

welcomes Christmas IN ELM PARK…

IN HORNCHURCH…

23 November 4.30-7pm Enjoy carol singing and street magic as you watch the celebrity lighting of the tree. There will be a free santa’s grotto to keep the kids happy, and late night shopping for mum and dad. Elm Park

24 November 2-7pm Watch the kids’ excitement as they build their own crackers before having a photo with Father Christmas. Plus carol singing and street entertainment. Pantomime characters will switch on the tree. Hornchurch

Illuminating Elm Park Glowing for Gold 2012

IN HAROLD HILL…

Light Up Harold Hill Christmas event

6 December 4-6pm Before the Christmas tree light switch-on at 5pm, you can take the kids to visit Santa, make your own Christmas decoration or simply take it easy and enjoy the carol singing. Hilldene Shopping Centre & Harold Hill Library

Hornchurch Christmas Cracker

IN COLLIER ROW…

Collier Row Christmas event 7 December 2012 4.30pm-7.30pm Kids will be delighted to visit four special elf stations to complete their outfit before meeting Santa himself and taking home a free photo as a momento. There will be free entertainment for all the family throughout. Collier Row

STYLE GUIDE

FOR HER Your wardrobe must-haves this party season

Top £19.99, H&M, Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, www hm.com

Sequin stripe jumper, £28, Jane Norman,buy online at www.janenorman.co.uk

Gold skater skirt by Lashes, £45, Beginners birdwatching walk House of Fraser, Lakeside,

Every Friday untilwww.houseoffraser.co.uk 28 December, from 10am

Top 3 party dressesTake a refreshing walk around the reserve and

Glenn Miller Orchestra In the Christmas Mood

see the many birds, mammals, insects and plants that live at the marsh. You can simply turn up, no need to book, just wrap up warm. £1.50-£5 depending on age and membership, does not include reserve entry fees. Rainham Marshes Nature Reserve, Rainham

23 December, 3.30pm & 7.30pm Christmas Enjoy an evening out Cupcake Class just before the big day 26 & 27 November with a musical evening 6-8pm featuring classics such Spend an evening at the as Jingle Bells and Sleigh library creating beautiful 1. Melaas dark red shirred waist lace dress, £25, New Look, Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, Ride well as Glenn www.newlook.com. 2. Grey baroque peplum dress, £39.50, Dorothy Perkins, 127-132 High Street, cupcakes for the festive Miller hits including In Hornchurch, www.dorothyperkins.com.3. Flock spot prom dress, £49, M & co, 55-57 Station Road, Upminster, www.mandco.com season. You’ll be taught the Mood, Moonlight hints and tips and get Serenade, American 30 to take home a box of 6 Patrol, Little Brown Jug, creations. £25pp. and more. Collier Row Library, Queens Theatre, Collier Row Hornchurch 28

DIRECTORY EVENTS

Christmas shopping events Christmas Fayre 30 November 3.15-5.15pm Harold Wood Primary School, Romford Christmas Shopping Evening 30 November 6-9pm Sanders Draper School, Hornchurch Christmas Craft and Gift Fair 1 December 10am-2pm Hall Mead School, Upminster Christmas Bazaar 1 December 11am-2pm Upminster Infant & Junior School, Upminster Rainham Village Christmas Fayre 1 December 10am-4pm Rainham Village Indoor Christmas Market 2 December 10am-4pm Havering Museum, Romford Craft and Shopping Market 8 December 10.30am-2.30pm St Michaelsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Church Hall, Main Road, Romford Christmas Shopping & Pamper Event 14 December 3.30pm-8.30pm Harold Hill Community Centre, Harold Hill 29

STYLE GUIDE

FOR HER Your wardrobe must-haves this party season

Top £19.99, H&M, Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, www hm.com

Top 3 party dresses

Sequin stripe jumper, £28, Stewart Avenue Jane Norman,buy online at www.janenorman.co.uk Allotments Christmas Fair

15 December 11am-2pm Pop down to the Stewart Avenue Allotments to stock up on homemade jams, chutneys, marmalades and fruit curds. There Gold skater skirt by Lashes, £45, will also be mince pies and other House of Fraser, Lakeside, www.houseoffraser.co.uk goodies on sale such as hampers and wreaths, plus Christmas orders can be collected if you’re not having them delivered. Christmas spirit will be spread with free mulled wine and a mince pie with every purchase. Stewart Avenue Allotments, Upminster

Jack and The Beanstalk

1 December - 12 January, various times The classic children’s story comes to life at the Queen’s Theatre this Christmas. Watch as Jack the dreaded Giant Thunderskull 1. Melabattles dark red shirred waist lace dress, £25, New Look, Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, www.newlook.com. 2. Grey baroque peplum dress, £39.50, Dorothy Perkins, 127-132 High Street, to rescue his sweetheart and win the Hornchurch, www.dorothyperkins.com.3. Flock spot promgolden dress, £49, M & co, 55-57 Station Road, Upminster, www.mandco.com treasure. You’ll meet the villainous rent collector Fleshcreep, Jack and Jill, Dame Trott, 30 Simple Simon and Buttercup the cow. Sit back and be entertained by the brilliant cast – this is a fun event all the family can enjoy. Queens Theatre, Hornchurch 30

NEVER MISS AN EVENT Follow us on Twitter to get the Havering Weekender every week

@HaveringLife

STYLE GUIDE

FOR HER Your wardrobe must-haves this party season

Sequin stripe jumper, £28, Jane Norman,buy online at www.janenorman.co.uk

Top £19.99, H&M, Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, www hm.com

Top 3 party dresses

Gold skater skirt by Lashes, £45, House of Fraser, Lakeside, www.houseoffraser.co.uk

3 2

FASHION

Style selection

For Her

Your wardrobe must-haves this party season Image: Marks and Spencer 33

STYLE GUIDE

FOR HER STYLE GUIDE

Sequin stripe jumper, £28, Jane Norman,buy online at Leopard Faux Fur Slipper Boots, www.janenorman.co.uk

FOR HER Your wardrobe £8, George at Asda, Romford must-haves this party season Your wardrobe

Sequin Stripe Jumper, £28, Jane Norman, order online at www.janenorman.co.uk

must-haves £19.99, H&M, Liberty thisTop party season Shopping Centre, Romford, www hm.com

Gold skater skirt by Lashes, £45, House of Fraser, Lakeside, www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Top £19.99, Top 3 party dresses H&M, Romford

Gold Skater Skirt by Lashes, £45, House of Fraser, Lakeside

Top 3 party dresses

1. Mela Dark Red Shirred Waist Lace Dress, £25, New Look, Romford 2. Grey Baroque Peplum Dress, £39.50, Dorothy Perkins, Hornchurch 3. Flock Spot Prom Dress, £49, M & Co, Upminster 34

FASHION STYLE

COMPLETE THE LOOK 9Ct White Gold White and Black Treated Diamond Earrings, £199, H Samuel, Romford

Taupe Trim Mid Courts, £35, Dorothy Perkins, Hornchurch

Main image: Red satin dress, £55.20, M&Co, Upminster,

Parkhurst Embellished Clutch, £45, Monsoon, Romford

PAINFUL FEET? Take the First Step to Healthier & Happier feet!

STYLE GUIDE

FOR HER

Sequin stripe jumper, £28, Jane Norman,buy online at • Routine chiropody care www.janenorman.co.uk for skin and nail problems •

Your wardrobe • Diabetic assessment and treatment • must-haves • Treatment for foot, arch, toe, bunion and heel pain • this party season • All types of men’s and women’s comfort shoes • • Specialised footwear for very wide, swollen / oedema • Shoes, heels, sandals, boots, moulded sandals, house shoes & slippers. Top £19.99, H&M, Liberty Shopping Centre,advice Romford,service to help you find shoes that feel and look great. Footwear www hm.com FREE DIGITAL FOOT SCAN TO ASSESS FOOT TYPE Gold skater skirt by Lashes, £45, • Biomechanics, insoles, orthotics, heelHouse cushions, heel lifts • of Fraser, Lakeside, www.houseoffraser.co.uk • Nail repair and cosmetic gel toenail reconstruction • Top• Soothing 3 party dresses and relieving hot lava shell therapeutic foot massage treatment •

ROMFORD PODIATRY, CHIROPODY AND FOOTWEAR CENTRE HPC Registered Podiatrist / Chiropodist . Est over 22 years

Find us on Facebook 36

2 Surman Terrace, Princes Road Romford Rm1 2tb

01708 728498

FASHION

Style selection

For Him

Winter fashion to keep you wrapped up warm Image: Marks and Spencer 37

STYLE Top 3 GUIDE Christmas Your wardrobe Jumpers

FOR HER

Sequin stripe jumper, £28, Jane Norman,buy online at www.janenorman.co.uk

must-haves this party season

Top £19.99, H&M, Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, www hm.com

Top 3 party dresses

Gold skater skirt by Lashes, £45, House of Fraser, Lakeside, www.houseoffraser.co.uk

2 1 2 3

1. Navy Reindeer Cardigan, £40, Burton, Hornchurch 30Denim 73 Reindeer 2. Christmas Jumper, £15, Malatan, Romford 3. Green Reindeer Crossing Jumper, £38, Topshop, order online at ww.topman.com

Main image: Grey Yoke Pattern Hoody, £40, Burton, Hornchurch

FASHION

Wool Blend Military Coat, £35, George at Asda, Romford

ASOS Brushed Silver Grandad Watch, £25, Asos, order online at www.asos.com Burgundy Straight Leg Chinos, £14.99, New Look, Romford

Khaki Padded Gilet, £29.25, M&Co, Upminster

COMPLETE THE LOOK Grey Ribbed Beanie Hat, £16 Debenhams, Romford

Premium Tamar Boot, £274.99, Superdry, Romford

Scarf, £14.99, H&M, Romford

STYLE GUIDE

FOR HER Your wardrobe must-haves this party season

Sequin stripe jumper, £28, Jane Norman,buy online at www.janenorman.co.uk

Top £19.99, H&M, Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, www hm.com

Top 3 party dresses

Gold skater skirt by Lashes, £45, House of Fraser, Lakeside, www.houseoffraser.co.uk

3 2

HaveringLife brings you everything you need to make the most of your kitchen this Christmas with ‘Chef ’s 1. Mela dark red shirred waist lace dress, £25, New Look, Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, www.newlook.com. 2. Grey peplum dress, £39.50, Dorothy Perkins, 127-132 High Street, Corner’ plus an baroque interview with Serena Robinson Hornchurch, www.dorothyperkins.com.3. Flock spot prom dress, £49, M & co, 55-57 Station Road, Upminster, her www.mandco.com about handmade Christmas hampers 30

FESTIVE F

FOOD & DRINK

FEASTING

STYLE GUIDE

FOR HER Your wardrobe must-haves this party season

Recipe: Waitrose Main image: Marks and Spencer

Sequin stripe jumper, £28, Jane Norman,buy online at www.janenorman.co.uk

Top £19.99, H&M, Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, www hm.com

Top 3 party dresses

Gold skater skirt by Lashes, £45, House of Fraser, Lakeside, www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Chef’s corner

Get your Christmas RECIPE kitchen in order Christmas Sorbet with Cranberries with HaveringLife

INGREDIENTS 150g caster sugar / 500g cranberries / Juice of ½ lemon METHOD 1. Heat 50g sugar with 150ml water to dissolve. Add cranberries, bring to the boil, then cover and simmer for 15 min1. Mela dark red shirred waist lace dress, £25, New Look, Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, utes, stirring occasionally. Blend to127-132 a www.newlook.com. 2. Grey baroque peplum dress, £39.50, Dorothy Perkins, High Street, smooth purée a food£49, processor. Hornchurch, www.dorothyperkins.com.3. Flock spot promindress, M & co,Sieve 55-57 Station Road, Upminster, www.mandco.com to remove the skin and pips. 2. Heat the remaining sugar, 350ml water and lemon juice until the sugar has dissolved then simmer for 2-3 minutes. 30 3. When cool, stir both mixes until smooth, then freeze for 2-3 hours. Use a food processor to break up the ice crystals then eturn to the freezer. Every Hand Painted Christmas 2 hours, use a fork to draw the ice crystals from the edges to the centre Gravy Boat, £4, until the sorbet is smooth and even-textured with tiny ice crystals. Place in Matalan, Romford glass bowls and serve. Serves 6

WANTS THIS!

STYLE GUIDE

FOR HER Your wardrobe must-haves

Sequin stripe jumper, £28, Jane Norman,buy online at www.janenorman.co.uk

DIRECTORY FOOD & DRINK

Tesco Finest goose fat 200g, £2.20, Tesco, Roneo Corner

HIDDEN GEM

TU Christmas Country Kitchen Mug, £4, Sainsburys, Hornchurch Gold Foil Crackers, £12, Next, Romford

Twins at 67-69 Victoria Road, Romford has a wonderful range of Christmas cake pans and toppers 75 pack Wilton Christmas Cupcake Cases, £1.49 Hobbycraft, Romford

TIPS FOR A STRESS-FREE CHRISTMAS KITCHEN PLAN AHEAD Write a list of everything you need to do in the kitchen throughout the big day. See where you can prepare and cook items at the same time, and check the size of your pan and oven BEFORE you buy the turkey.

DELEGATE Get the whole family involved in helping cook the dinner, it will mean less stress and make it a more enjoyable event everyone can participate together.

Everyone loves Pigs-in-Blankets, you can never cook too many. They're delicious cold Christmas evening or for Boxing day, and even chopped up in a sandwich. They are pretty simple to make yourselves the rest of the year if you can't seek them out in the local supermarkets.

MAKE SPACE Clear cupboards, the fridge and freezer and throw out those jars that have been lurking for years, you will need all the space you can get come Christmas season. 43

DE Y FRE SI OU E D GN R E , P CH LIV HO OI ER TO CE Y & OF TE XT

STYLE GUIDE

FOR HER

Smallwardrobe Your 1must-haves 0 for £7.99 this party season

Sequin stripe jumper, £28, Jane Norman,buy online at www.janenorman.co.uk

Mini 25 for £7.99

Top £19.99, H&M, Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, www hm.com

Top 3 party dresses

Gold skater skirt by Lashes, £45, House of Fraser, Lakeside, www.houseoffraser.co.uk

ge Lar 9 £3.6 h eac

Bags 10 for £9.49

3 2

PERFECT FOR

• Children’s Party Bags “Ho ho ho! • Birthday Favours order now for • Birth Announcement 1. Christmas” Mela dark red shirred waist lace dress, £25, New Look, Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, www.newlook.com. 2. Grey baroque peplum dress, £39.50, Dorothy 127-132 High Street, • Perkins, Christenings & Baptisms Hornchurch, www.dorothyperkins.com.3. Flock spot prom dress, £49, M & co, 55-57 Station Road, Upminster, www.mandco.com • Christmas Stocking Fillers • Teachers’ Gifts 30 + loads more…

Call Lisa on 07734 712855

www.choccasions.com 44

FOOD & DRINK

THE

PERSONAL

TOUCH

Local girl Serena Robinson takes time out of her busy schedule to talk homemade hampers with HaveringLife 45

STYLE GUIDEcoconut ice, Christmas

FOR HER

with everything inside cupcakes and chocolate being made from truffles and shortbread scratch. “The best thing Your wardrobe about making hampers following later. must-haves this party season is that they can be a She first started lot of fun and also it’s getting creative in the very rewarding when kitchen at 13 years Top £19.99, H&M, Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, you put all the items old when many hours www hm.com skater skirt by Lashes, you’ve made£45, together were spent making Gold House of Fraser, Lakeside, and see the finished her dad’s favourite www.houseoffraser.co.uk Top 3 party dresses product”, she says. treat for his birthday And fabulous they do erena Robinson is marzipan fruits. They busy. With the run up to Christmas “They can be a lot of fun and very rewarding firmly in full swing, her when you put all the items you’ve made Christmas hampers are together and see the finished product” by now well on their were an instant hit and look, from the festive way. The chutneys are cupcakes adorned with first on the list, needing something she’d really to be completed at least enjoyed doing, so from holly to the white flaked truffles which conjure a month before the big then on she would up memories of winter often give homemade day, with spiced nuts, 1. Mela dark red shirred waist lace dress, £25, New Look, Shopping Centre, Romford, fights. snowball food gifts toLiberty friends www.newlook.com. 2. Grey baroque peplum dress, £39.50, Dorothy Perkins, 127-132 High Street, Hornchurch, www.dorothyperkins.com.3.and Flockfamily spot promon dress, £49, M & co, 55-57 Station Road, These personalised special Upminster, www.mandco.com gifts, aside from looking occasions. Two years 30 impressive, are also a ago she took on the great way to experiment ultimate challenge in the kitchen. “I try to of making entire be a little creative with Christmas hampers,

Sequin stripe jumper, £28, Jane Norman,buy online at www.janenorman.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK

STYLE GUIDE

FOR HER

with little scarves and the chocolate truffles Sequin stripe jumper, £28, hats. And this year, I make by coming up Jane Norman,buy online at www.janenorman.co.uk with flavours. they’ll morph into Yourdifferent wardrobe Last year I made white winter snowmen. must-haves this partyand season However, if you’re chocolate coconut, thinking of attempting chocolate orange and your own homemade chocolate with nutella Top £19.99, H&M, Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, hamper, Serena stresses centres. I have also www hm.com skater skirt by Lashes, £45, made in the past Baileys that planning your Gold House of Fraser, Lakeside, www.houseoffraser.co.uk white chocolate truffles time is all important. Top 3 party dresses The entire process is and milk chocolate extremely rewarding and pistachio.” With but also takes many each session in the

“I try to be a little creative with the chocolate truffles I make by coming up with different flavours”

hours in the kitchen kitchen comes new ideas, and Serena loves – often difficult to organise with all to get inventive and those Christmas party make things that you 1. Mela dark red £25, New Look, Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, wouldn’t beshirred ablewaist to lace dress,invitations. www.newlook.com. 2. Grey baroque peplum dress, £39.50, Dorothy Perkins, 127-132 High Street, Hornchurch, www.dorothyperkins.com.3. Flock spotyear prom dress, “Last I £49, M & co, 55-57 Station Road, buy easily in the shop. Upminster, www.mandco.com Last year, dad’s original decided that 30 it would be marzipan fruits were best to make given a Christmassy makeover by becoming the majority on Christmas marzipan penguins 48

DIRECTORY

Serena’s Top Tips

for ChrisTmas hamper making Be organised – Some items need to be made weeks or even months in advance like chutney or Christmas cake so start thinking early about which items you would like to make. Do your research – If you hunt around you can often find bargains for hampers/boxes, decorations and general craft items. Always keeping an eye out throughout the year is a great way of keeping the costs down. Get creative – There’s a great deal of inspiration online with different recipes or items you can make, and brilliant ideas for decoration. Most importantly, have fun!

RECIPE STYLE GUIDETIME HOMEMADE CHRISTMAS TRUFFLES

FOR HER

Sequin stripe jumper, £28, Jane Norman,buy online at mostwww.janenorman.co.uk for Christmas are

One wardrobe of the things I enjoy making the chocolate truffles. Your For a professional look, package in cellophane bags and tie ribbon around the must-haves top.party You can make as part of a hamper or tie with a personalised label to use this season an original place setting at the Christmas table. Top £19.99, H&M, Liberty

Ingredients: Shopping Centre, Romford, www hm.com • 400g chopped milk, white or dark chocolate Gold skater skirt by Lashes, £45, • 150ml pot double cream House of Fraser, Lakeside,

Top 3 party dresses Method:

www.houseoffraser.co.uk

1. Melt the chocolate and cream together. Add the flavouring of your choice, for example a teaspoon of vanilla, mint or orange essence. Leave the mixture to cool and then place in the fridge for 2-3 hours. 2. When the mix has become firm, use 2 teaspoons to scoop it out into balls. You can then roll the truffles into a topping of your choice such as coconut, chopped pistachios or simply cocoa powder or icing sugar. An alternative is to dip the truffles into melted chocolate and leave to set, which gives the truffles a crisp chocolatey shell. To make Nutella centres… Place small droplets of Nutella on a lined baking sheet and place in the freezer to set. Once firm you can coat the Nutella centres in lace thedress, chocolate truffle 1. Mela dark red shirred waist £25, New Look, Libertymixture. Shopping Centre, Romford,

www.newlook.com. 2. Grey baroque peplum dress, £39.50, Dorothy Perkins, 127-132 High Street, Hornchurch, www.dorothyperkins.com.3. Flock spot prom dress, £49, M & co, 55-57 Station Road, Upminster, www.mandco.com

Useful tips

• If the mix gets too firm after chilling, leave out at room temp for 20 minutes or until soft enough to shape. • The shaped truffles can be frozen for up to 1 month before coating, if you wish to make them in advance. Place the truffles well-spaced apart on a lined baking sheet and freeze until solid.

FOOD DIRECTORY & DRINK

‘She eventually had to recruit her sister and boyfriend to help her, with the kitchen turned into a hamper making workshop!’ Eve so that everything would be freshly made when I gave them to my family on Christmas day. This turned out to be a complete nightmare as I underestimated the time it would take to make all the items I had planned.” She eventually had to recruit her sister and

boyfriend to help her, with the kitchen turned into a hamper making workshop! Everything was finally finished in the early hours. With the hampers complete, everyone could at last get some sleep before the big day really began. This year, she’s much more organised. The chutneys are done, the Christmas

cake is ready, and those little marzipan snowmen are just waiting to be made, ready for dad’s big smile on Christmas morning.

ENCAUSTIC WAX ART

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INTERIORS

Home for

Christmas

HaveringLife picks out beautiful things to get your home Christmas-ready 53

STYLE GUIDE

FOR HER Your wardrobe must-haves this party season

Sequin stripe jumper, £28, Jane Norman,buy online at www.janenorman.co.uk

Top £19.99, H&M, Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, www hm.com

Top 3 party dresses

Main image: B&Q

2 11

Gold skater skirt by Lashes, £45, House of Fraser, Lakeside, www.houseoffraser.co.uk

3 2

5 54

INTERIORS

8 9

1. Silver and Blue Tinsel Wreaths, £1, Poundland, Romford 2. Hand Painted Peguin Salt and Pepper Set, £4, Matalan, Romford 3. Rudolf Face Tweed Decoration, £4, Accessorize, Romford 4. Lilliput Lane - Messages For Christmas, £54.99, H Samuel, Romford 5. ASDA Heart Festive Wreath Christmas Decoration, £7, ASDA, Romford 6. Henley Lamp Table, £329, Roomes Stores, Upminster 7. Aipure Diffuser, 99p, 99p Stores, Hornchurch 8. 6ft Green Snow Covered Christmas Tree, £79.99, Argos, Hornchurch 9. 2ft Cone/Red Berry Christmas Tree, £20, B&Q, Roneo Corner 10. Thornton & France Gourmet Festive Hamper, £120, order online at www.bhs.co.uk 11. Chenille Reindeer Cushion, £12, Marks and Spencer, Romford 12. Stainless Steel 68 Piece ‘Dine Bliss’ Cutlery Set, £137.50, Debenhams, Romford 13. Pop Red Rug, from £22.49, The Range, Romford

Email sales@drathmore.co.uk www.drathmore.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

A Grand Day Out

HaveringLife speaks to Rebecca Gibson, People and Wildlife Manager at the Essex Wildlife Trust, about the beautiful Bedfords Park â&#x20AC;&#x201C; right on our doorstep

raditionally, visits to parks are associated with summertime strolls, picnic hamper in hand. Havering has a wealth of wonderful parks whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re

looking to have the kids let off steam in the playground or take the dogs for a brisk walk. However, Havering is also home to Bedfords Park, a huge nature reserve which can offer so much more and can in fact, become a day out in itself, at all times of the year. Far from being a summer-only destination, Bedfords Park is simply beautiful

STYLE GUIDE

FOR HER Your wardrobe must-haves this party season

Sequin stripe jumper, £28, Jane Norman,buy online at www.janenorman.co.uk

Top £19.99, H&M, Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, www hm.com

Top 3 party dresses

Gold skater skirt by Lashes, £45, House of Fraser, Lakeside, www.houseoffraser.co.uk

‘The centre was opened back in 2003 and enjoying a hot drink is built on the site of a former mansion’ and slice of cake. It’s

also here that you will which extends a warm find out about the year-round events diary welcome to all, and gives the opportunity to with something for find out more about the everyone, be it pond wildlife within the park dipping for the kids or a photography workshop and the surrounding 1. Mela dark red shirred waist lace dress, £25, New Look,The Liberty Shopping Centre, forRomford, the adults. landscape. centre www.newlook.com. 2. Grey baroque peplum dress, £39.50, Dorothy Perkins, 127-132 High Street, Hornchurch, www.dorothyperkins.com.3.was Flockopened spot prom dress, Station Road,is a haven shop back£49, inM & co, 55-57The Upminster, www.mandco.com for those interested in 2003 and is built on 30 wildlife, and so now is the site of a former the ideal time to pay mansion. Visitors a visit to pick out a can rest their feet and admire the view whilst more original gift for

in the winter snow, should we get some. This local nature reserve incorporates the Essex Wildlife Trust Visitor Centre

OUT DIRECTORY & ABOUT

STYLE GUIDE

FOR HER Your wardrobe must-haves this party season

Sequin stripe jumper, £28, Jane Norman,buy online at www.janenorman.co.uk

Top £19.99, H&M, Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, www hm.com

Top 3 party dresses

Gold skater skirt by Lashes, £45, House of Fraser, Lakeside, www.houseoffraser.co.uk

3 2

“Visitors can get close views of the 1. Mela dark red shirred waist lace dress, £25, Newdeer Look, Liberty Centre, Romford, andShopping are popular for children to www.newlook.com. 2. Grey baroque peplum dress, £39.50, Dorothy Perkins, 127-132 High Street, Hornchurch, www.dorothyperkins.com.3. Flock spot prom dress,in £49,the M & co, 55-57 Station Road, visit build up to Christmas” Upminster, www.mandco.com

OUT & ABOUT

Christmas. Instead of the usual predictable toys quickly discarded by youngsters, here is the place to find educational books that they will treasure for a lifetime. Rebecca says, “the shop is well stocked with Christmas gifts, books, toys and a range of wildlife care products such as bird seed and feeders to support wildlife through the winter months.” There are many walks around the 215 acre park, should you feel energetic, and these will take you through mature woodland, species rich wildflower and hay meadows, ponds, streams and marshy areas. To signify the site’s history as a Royal Hunting Ground, close to the centre is a

fenced paddock of red deer stags and hinds. “Visitors can get close views of the deer and they are popular for children to visit in the build up to Christmas”, explains Rebecca. This is definitely a more natural way to see deer at this time of year, as opposed to being at a fake-snowed shopping centre, and probably a lot less busy too! If you have never been to Bedfords Park before,

now is the perfect time, be it to take brisk walks in order to squeeze into those party dresses, or for post-Christmas strolls with the family. You will be assured of a warm welcome. See over the page for events and more about how you can help the Essex Wildlife Trust. Bedfords Park Visitor Centre, Broxhill Road, Havering-atte-Bower, Essex, RM4 1QH 01708 748646 www.essexwt.org.uk

Unique Christmas Gift Idea

A brilliant way to support wildlife is to ‘Adopt a Species’ as a Christmas present for friends or family. This will support Essex’s special species; water vole, barn owl, stag beetle and the dormouse. Find out more by visiting www.essexwt.org.uk/news/ adopt_a_species

STYLE GUIDE

Bedfords Park FOR HER Your wardrobe must-haves this party season

Sequin stripe jumper, £28, Jane Norman,buy online at www.janenorman.co.uk

Event Diary

Caterpillar PRE-SCHOOL Club

28 November, 19 December, 9 January (10am-12pm) Top £19.99, H&M, Liberty Get the little ones out and about and learning about wildlife with Shopping Centre, Romford, www hm.com this activity morning. There will be natural play, arts and crafts, Gold skater skirt by Lashes, £45, House of Fraser, Lakeside, and lots of different activities to keep them occupied. Booking (on www.houseoffraser.co.uk 01708 748646) and £5 donation per child in advance is essential.

Top 3 party dresses

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION EVENT

16 December (10am-4pm) Jump into the Christmas spirit with traditional Christmas wreath making and childrens craft activities. There will be craft stalls to peruse, and mulled punch, mince pies and more to enjoy. Free entry, but some activities may require a donation.

Christmas CraftS

22nd December 1-3pm (Christmas Craft Afternoon) 24 December 10-2pm (Christmas Eve Crafts) Head to Bedfords Park for a lovely winter walk and join in the craft activities you’re ideal for the little ones! Booking 1. Mela dark red shirred waistwhilst lace dress, £25, Newthere, Look, Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, www.newlook.com. 2. Grey baroque peplum dress, £39.50, Dorothy Perkins, 127-132 High Street, (on 01708 748646)Flock andspot £5prom donation child advance is Hornchurch, www.dorothyperkins.com.3. dress, £49,per M & co, 55-57in Station Road, Upminster, www.mandco.com essential for the 22nd December event. The Christmas Eve event is ‘turn up and join in’ and free, but donations would be welcomed. 30

Winter opening hours

Tuesday to Sunday, 9am-4pm Open Mondays during school holidays 62

STYLE GUIDE

DOING YOUR BIT FOR HAVERING’S FOR WILDLIFEHER & THE ESSEX WILDLIFE TRUST Sequin stripe jumper, £28, Jane Norman,buy online at www.janenorman.co.uk

Your wardrobe As we approach winter, your local wildlife needs your support. must-haves The spring and summer of 2012 has produced a very low yield this partyberries season of fruit, and seeds to sustain birds and small mammals

over the winter months. For those animals that chose not to hibernate or Top migrate to warmer places, the pressure is on for them to find a steady £19.99, H&M, Liberty Shopping Centre, Romford, resource of food to keep them healthy and active over the winter. www hm.com Wildlife, in particular garden birds, are very for a consistent Goldgrateful skater skirt by Lashes, £45, House of Fraser, Lakeside, supply of food on bird tables and bird feeders which they can rely on. www.houseoffraser.co.uk Once birds get used to feeders they will visit regularly and provide a Top 3 party dresses great deal of pleasure to watch. You can help support conservation charity The Essex Wildlife Trust by purchasing feeders from the visitors centre rather than a national high street chain store or supermarket. Bedfords Park visitor centre stocks a wide range of feeders, peanuts and seed to suit your budget and the garden birds you would like to attract. The shop also sells bat boxes, hedgehog boxes and insect hotels, which provide important shelter for wildlife over winter.

BECOME A VOLUNTEER Another way you can help the charity is by becoming a weekly volunteer. The Essex Wildlife trust is always looking for people of all ages to help out, and donating your spare time 1. not Mela dark redbenefits shirred waistthe lace charity, dress, £25, but New Look, Liberty Shopping only you’ll also meetCentre, Romford, www.newlook.com. 2. Grey baroque peplum dress, £39.50, Dorothy Perkins, 127-132 High Street, Hornchurch, www.dorothyperkins.com.3. Flock learn spot prom dress, about £49, M & co, 55-57 Station Road, some great new people and more Upminster, www.mandco.com wildlife in Havering at the same time. If you 30would like to get more information on volunteer roles, call the centre on 01708 748646.

All Bedfords Park photographs for this feature taken from the Facebook page, visit now at www.facebook.com/EWTBedfordsPark 64