Haveringlife Magazine Winter 2015 by HaveringLife

MAGAZINE WINTER 2015

Christmas in Havering

HaveringLife brings you everything you need for the festive season, from fabulous style and delicious food ideas, to all the local events

Precious Memories We chat to Averil Griffin about her award-winning photography business Pandora Images in Romford

Looking for a unique gift for the family for Christmas? Then why not book a free sitting at Pandora Images. We would like to invite you to come and try our services with a free sitting and very competitive portrait prices. Gift vouchers are also available, ask in store for details. Walk-in appointments welcome however we do recommend you book to avoid disappointment!

Free Sitting

Once you have had your free sitting why not create something special for your home. Whether its one of our Premium handcrafted canvases, a contemporary box frame or a high quality photographic print. Prices start at only £10.

20 x 16 inch photo print only £45 New for 2015! Cake Smash. (Just bring your own cake)

CD Package

Wall Art

6 x 8 inch photo print only £10

If you would prefer to own the copyright to your images and would like a digital copy for you to be able to share with your friends and family on the internet, you can purchase a CD for only £150. We aim to provide between 30-50 images on your CD. rds

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First Floor, Romford Shopping Hall, Market Place, RM1 3AB 01708 606667 www.pandoraimages.co.uk info@pandoraimages.co.uk PandoraImages

@PandoraImages

welcome

Hello and welcome to the winter edition of HaveringLife magazine. We are very proud to bring you a mix of articles and style pages, from fashion and interiors, to local events and food. This issue we touch base with a couple of local residents, chatting about their new businesses. Sarah Fellowes talks pooches and Averil Griffin talks capturing perfect memories with photography. HaveringLife also brings you the annual Christmas gift guide, with all kinds of ideas for him, her, and the kids – whether you’re on a budget or looking to splash out in style. We get you ready for the festive season with plenty of ideas on our food pages, plus bring you a pretty selection of wreaths to choose from in our interiors section, to decorate your front door. We hope you enjoy this latest issue and would love to hear your feedback, get in touch by emailing hello@haveringlife.co.uk.

With many thanks to: Paul Wade, Sarah Fellowes and Averil Griffin Blog: www.haveringlife.tumblr.com Website: www.haveringlife.co.uk Email: hello@haveringlife.co.uk Twitter: @HaveringLife Facebook: Search ‘HaveringLife’

Written, designed and published by Lisa Wade t/a HaveringLife. Whilst HaveringLife promises to take the utmost care with submitted material, responsibility cannot be accepted for 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, and everything is published in good faith, we cannot accept responsibility for any errors or consequences arising as a result of incorrect information. Views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. This publication and HaveringLife is in no way associated nor affiliated with Havering Council.

FEATURES 06 | The HaveringLife Christmas Gift Guide HaveringLife brings you a round-up of the best local gifts and stocking fillers, whether you’re buying for him, her or the kids 14 | Precious memories We catch up with Averil Griffin to chat about her photography business which was a winner at the Havering Business Awards 44 | Dog’s Best Friend Sarah Fellowes explains all about how she can make your pet feel like they’re having a holiday too if you have to leave them behind when you take yours FASHION & BEAUTY 29 | Style Selection Winter fashion selections from local retailers, including top Christmas jumpers for him and for her 36 | Beauty As we get closer to the party season, prepare to sparkle and stand out with gold shades, pretty scents and glitter 4

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FOOD & DRINK 40 | Chef’s Corner Make the most of the festive season with culinary delights to get your mouth watering, plus a quick and simple recipe for baked pears with chocolate 42 | Restaurant Review HaveringLife heads to local restaurant Mirror in Hornchurch for some Turkish cuisine and is far from disappointed REGULARS 20 | Events Our choice of the top events this season, from a Santa run to knitting workshop. Plus the lowdown on all the Christmas light switch-ons in the area, Christmas shopping events and the goings-on in Romford Market 51 | Pets Corner HaveringLife’s resident sausage dogs Coco and Max share their news, favourite shopping buys and top tweet 53 | Interiors This issue we check out some gorgeous door-worthy wreaths from local retailers – from bells and baubles to pinecones TRAVEL 56 | Vacation To… …Cologne. HaveringLife gets truly festive and spends time in all seven of the German city’s Christmas Markets, each with a different atmosphere and theme 64 | Mini Break We head to Es Castell and Mahon in Menorca for a long weekend to grab the last of the sunshine 5

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the

Christmas gift guide

For HER

Beaded compact mirror, £9, Monsoon, Romford

Wilko diary A5 DAP Magnetic botanica, £5, Wilkinson, Romford 8

White owl T/light holder, £3.99, The Range, Romford

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Bird watch, £35, Monsoon, Romford

Wooden house ornament, £5.99, The Range, Romford

Pilgrim gold plated wreath pendant necklace, £15, Debenhams, Romford

Yankee Candle Classic tea lights red apple wreath, £5.59, Debenhams, Romford

Elephant table lamp, £24.99, The Range, Romford

Velvet Bloom cosmetic bag gift, £14, Next, Romford

Chill out in a matchbox, £4.99, available online at www.inamatchbox.com

Ferrero Rocher 6 piece cube, £3, Debenhams, Romford

Pretty pink chocolate fountain, £19.99, Argos, Hornchurch

Rubik’s cube, £12, Next, Romford

Gizmo mini tool kit, £3, Wilkinson, Romford

For HIM 10

Mantaray khaki striped beanie hat, £12.80, Debenhams, Romford

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GO Entertain fish enamel mug £6.40, Debenhams, Romford

Puzzler tin, £6, M&Co. Upminster

Modern gent’s activist fragrance kit, £35, The Body Shop, Romford

Hit stuff in a matchbox, £5.99, available online at www.inamatchbox.com

Multi polar bear and penguin socks two pack, £6, Next, Romford

6oz black leather hipflask, £24.99, H Samuel, Romford

Grey geometric jumper, £35, River Island, Romford Modern gent’s post party rescue Kit, £16, The Body Shop, Romford

For KIDS Disney Frozen light up ball, £3, Wilkinson, Romford

White long sleeve snowman top (3mths-6yrs) £6, Next, Romford 12

Star Wars Chewbacca electronic mask, £29.99, Argos, Hornchurch

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Make your own Christmas felt garland, £3, Hobbycraft, Romford

Colour In cardboard racing reindeer, £5, Hobbycraft, Romford

Sparkle bead jewellery set, £3, BHS, Romford

Black/grey Star Wars™ rucksack, £15, Next, Romford

Nerf zombie flipfury, £17.99, Argos, Hornchurch

Peppa Pig passport holder and luggage tag, £8.99, H Samuel, Romford

Penguin coin purse, £5, M&Co. Upminster

Disney Frozen gloves, £7, M&Co. Upminster

Christmas children’s chef Set 2 Piece, £1, Poundland, Romford

Precious

memories HaveringLife chats to Averil Griffin, 28 from Hornchurch, who opened her award-winning shop Pandora Images last year in Romford Shopping Hall

feature

How did Pandora Images come about? I have always been passionate about photography, ever since I was little â&#x20AC;&#x201C; I only ever wanted to be a photographer. I decided to open the shop as not only would it give me the opportunity to do something I love, it would also give the chance to show people that professional photography can be affordable to everyone. Have you always been interested in

photography? Yes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; I have now studied and worked in photography for over ten years. As soon as I left school I went on to further education to

continue my studies, and then when I qualified I joined a large photography corporation where I worked with them for many years taking family portraits. Following this, I shadowed wedding photographers to get all the experience I needed to go into the wedding side of the industry, before finally starting up Pandora 15

Images in February 2014. What kind of services can people book at Pandora Images? We cover all special occasions where you would usually have a photographer (christenings, weddings etc.) However we also offer some more unusual services. Our cake smashes and paint splashes are very popular – we let the children get

as messy as they like whilst smashing into a cake, or painting all over our backdrops. We also have mini seasonal events where we decorate the studio

and the children can come down and be photographed – for example in their Halloween outfit against a spooky backdrop. What is your favourite type of event to photograph and why? Getting to document someone’s wedding day is just amazing. From when you first meet the couple, hearing all their plans for their big day and then seeing it all come together for them

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is just fantastic. You work so closely with the couple on the day and you know just how important it is for them and their family, so you just want to make sure you get it right. When they come down and see their photos for the first time, it’s so exciting seeing their reactions to the photographs you have captured – there is no better feeling. And what is your most memorable experience? There are too many to choose from, we have had the best two years at the studio! However if I had to pick one, it would have to be our ‘Meet and Greet’ with Elsa (from Disney’s Frozen). We thought it would be nice for

the kids to come to a mini event where they could come in and meet one of their favourite characters, and have a photo to take away with them. However, what we could have never anticipated was the huge response we

got – we saw over 1,000 children in three days! At the time, a ‘Meet and Greet’ event was not a popular thing to do – to my knowledge I was the first in our area to do it. The kids’ reactions were priceless – some of them were so star 17

And what do you think made you a winning company? Perhaps because I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do more for my customers than I try to do already. I understand that without them I would not be able to do the job I am so passionate struck they had to come How did you feel when about, so I want to back a few times before you won the Havering provide the very best service I can. they could even speak! Business Award for The whole weekend was Best New Business back in October? What are your plans so much fun. for the future? Another thing which To be honest it still hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t sunk it, I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t We want to continue to still makes my day think it will for a while. providing the best every time it happens, We are absolutely service we can at the is when customers I ecstatic though, had from my old job winning that award when I first qualified meant so much to us find out that I now have a studio and come and our customers who were rooting for back to me. To know that I have such a loyal us. I really wanted to show them how much customer base even after so many years is a their support has helped us grow. great feeling. 18

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most affordable prices we can. I hope to keep expanding the team and working with other local companies to make the brand more recognisable within and around the area. Next year is looking like a jammed pack year

already, so we just hope to continue growing and building a company that will cement itself within Romford for many years to come. Unit 134, Romford Shopping Hall, RM1 3AB, 01708 606 667 www.pandoraimages.co.uk

CHRISTMAS GIFTS AT PANDORA IMAGES CREATE Something gorgeous for a frame: Instant Prints 8”x 6” only £10 STOCKING FILLERS Mini Gifts: Photo mugs £10, Keyrings 2 for £5 FOR THOSE WHO CAN’T DECIDE: Gift Vouchers £10 & £20 All gifts include a free sitting!

EVENTS DIARY HaveringLife brings you a selection of the winter’s finest local events – from Christmas concerts and shopping, to getting creative or keeping fit

Mini relax and indulge

Saturday 5 December, 10am-3pm Book up an Indian head massage or back massage on 01708 434978 for £7 per 20 minutes (double time slots allowed). Gidea Park Library 20

Christmas Concert

Saturday 19 December, 7.30pm-9.30pm Get into the Christmas spirit with this concert of tradition and contemporary music. There will be Christmas carols, old and new, and audience participation rewarded with seasonal refreshments in the hall afterwards. £10 Adults, kids £5. Email tickets@haveringsingers.org.uk St Michael’s Church, Gidea Park

EVENTS

Family Pantomime: Cinderella

Saturday 8 January, 2.30pm-5pm All the family can enjoy this classic by local drama group the College Players. All proceeds go to Friends of Langtons and help with the upkeep of the gardens. Adults £7, kids £5, book tickets on 01708 449701 Hornchurch Methodist Church, Hornchurch

Cranham Art Society

Wednesday 6 January, 10am-12pm Creative types should pop along to this long established friendly art group who are looking for new members. The beginners group starts in the new year in Marlborough Gardens, Cranham, and the annual susbscription is £50 which works out at less than £1 a week over the course of the year. Cranham Community Centre, Cranham 21

Christmas

SWITCH-ONS & CELEBRATIONS Romford Christmas Lights Switch-On Thursday 19 November, 4.30pm-6.30pm Romford Market

Hornchurch Christmas Cracker event Saturday 21 November, 2pm-5pm Upminster Town Centre

Upminster Christmas Event Thursday 26 November, 4pm-6pm Upminster Town Centre

Elm Park Christmas Event Friday 27 November 4-6pm Elm Park Town Centre

Light Up Harold Hill Christmas Event Thursday 3 December 4pm-6pm Hilldene Shopping Centre & Harold Hill Library

Collier Row Mistletoe Madness Christmas Event Friday 4 December 4.30pm-7.30pm Collier Row Town Centre

Rainham Village

Saturday 5 December 10.30am-3.30pm Rainham Village 22

EVENTS

Italian Food Christmas Market

Sunday 29 November, 10am-4pm Italia in Piazza is an innovative and authentic Italian food market comprising a number of mouthwatering stalls bringing you all the wonderful tastes you would expect to get in Italy. Try parmigiano reggiano, prosciutto, salame, olives, extra virgin olive oils, plus some festive Italian favourites, and much more. Hornchurch Town Centre

Growing Friends

Wednesdays, 10am-3pm Keep physically active and meet new friends in natural surroundings to improve health and wellbeing. There are activities and workshops to get involved in, plus there are unlimited refreshments. Non-members can attend specific events for ÂŁ3-ÂŁ5 depending upon the activity. 18 November: Morello cherry trees: Pruning and espaliers at the front gates (if the leaves have dropped). 25 November: To be confirmed 2 December: Espaliers: Learn the art of starting espaliers on the garden walls from apple trees (only if the leaves have dropped). 9th December: Christmas decorations: Making Christmas decorations from the natural environment. Bedfords Park Walled Garden, Havering atte Bower 23

Mud ‘n’ Madness

Saturday 6 February, 8am-5pm Get dirty with this mud crawling, heart pounding, obstacle-crazy 7.5km dash that will push you to your limits. Admission £40, age 16+. Pre-booking required on 01708 771427 Stubbers Adventure Centre, Upminster

The Mitchell Huth Memorial Fund Santa Walk

5 December, 12pm-2pm Help raise money for charity this festive season. Dress up in your best Santa costume and take part this fun walking event. You just need to complete three laps of the circuit whilst completing challenges along the way! It will help raise awareness and money for families affected by Neuroblastoma. Adults £5 registration (min. sponsorship £50), Child £3 registration (min. sponsorship £20). Pre-booking required on 07800 563 932. Harrow Lodge Park, Hornchurch 24

EVENTS

Christmas shopping events

Saturday 21 November, 10am-4pm Christmas Craft Fair, The Old Chapel, Upminster Saturday 21 November, 10am-1.45pm Winter Bazaar, St Augustine Church Hall, Birkbeck Road, Rush Green Saturday 21 November, 11am-2pm Branfil Primary School Christmas Bazaar, Upminster Sunday 22 November, 12pm-4pm Indoor Christmas Market, Havering Museum, Romford Saturday 28 November, 10am-5pm Festive Craft and Gift Fair, Hornchurch Sports Centre, Hornchurch Saturday 28 November, 10am-2pm Christmas Fayre, St Laurenceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Church Hall, Upminster Saturday 5 December, 10.30am-3.30pm Rainham Christmas Fayre, Rainham Village

Christmas

AT ROMFORD MARKET Friday 18 December - Sunday 20 December Continental Christmas Market Saturday 12 & Saturday 19 December Hornchurch Drum and Trumpet Corps Sunday 13 December, 11am-3pm Santa Bear and his reindeer friends Monday 21 December, 11am-3pm Real reindeer in the market Saturday 19 & Sunday 20 December Live entertainment performances on stage from Comedy Rock Band and Nice N Sleazy Sunday 20 December Coca-Cola Road Show

“There has never been so much to do at Romford Market at Christmas, these events will put the Market at the heart of Romford Town Centre. There’s sure to be something for everyone to enjoy when visiting the Market this Christmas.” – Councillor Robert Benham, Cabinet Member for Environment

EVENTS

Christmas Carol Concert

Tuesday 8 December, 2pm-4pm Enjoy festive carols and refreshments at this concert at The Old Chapel. Please call 01708 222660 to confirm your attendance. Free, but suggested donation of £2. The Old Chapel, Upminster

Knit and Natter

Tuesday 24 November, 10am-12pm Everyone will be made to feel welcome at this friendly new knitting group. Have a go at knitting and chat with new friends, whatever your ability. A great way to share tips, offer advice and tackle community projects together. £2.50, book on 020 7993 5479. Creative House, Bryant Avenue, Romford

Christmas Tree Festival

28 November - 6 December, 2pm-6pm Start the Christmas season by visiting the Upminster Christmas Tree Festival, where the church will be filled with trees beautifully decorated by Church organisations, local schools charities and community groups in the theme of ‘Christmas Carols’. On Saturday 28 November there is a Christmas market from 10am to 3pm. Upminster Methodist Church, Upminster 27

Stunning local photography by Peter Barrett Framed Prints • Cards • Aerial Photos • Landscapes and more www.digitalcanvas.org.uk

FASHION

Style selection

For Him

Check out our new wardrobe selections to guarantee you a stylish winter Image: Primark, Romford 29

three Top

Christmas Jumpers

2 3 1. Black polar bear crew, £30, Next, Romford 2. Burton blue fair isle inspired Christmas jumper, £20, Debenhams, Romford 3. TS Heritage mens navy reindeer Christmas novelty crew neck jumper, £19.99, Blue Inc, Romford

Image: Black signature tuxedo slim fit suit jacket, £130, trousers, £69, and shirt and bow tie set, £42 Next, Romford

FASHION

Green bah humbug socks, £2.99, New Look, Romford

Velvet slippers, £29.99, H&M, Romford

Threadbare shawl collar jumper, £26, M&Co. Upminster Red Compton dept crew neck jumper, £7, Primark, Romford

Brown leather belt, £18, M&Co. Upminster

Core polar zip hoodie, £74.99, Superdry, Romford

Red diamond bobby shirt, £10, Primark, Romford

WRAP UP WARM

Keep cosy with scarves, hats and gloves this winter

Twisted Soul mens black fur lined trapper, £12.99, Blue Inc, Romford

J by Jasper Conran Navy striped Merino wool scarf, £17.50, Debenhams, Romford

Black honeycomb knit beanie, £6.99, New Look, Romford

Scarf, £7.99, H&M, Romford

Super twist cable gloves, £16.99, Superdry, Romford 31

HaveringLife needs you!

Can you write? Get in touch if you would like to submit an article idea for HaveringLife magazine, or if you are interested in being interviewed for a story you have to tell about the local area. Or perhaps you have some fascinating Havering photographs or stories? If you would like to contribute, or have any feedback about the magazine, please get in touch via email at hello@haveringlife.co.uk or you can follow us on twitter and send a message @HaveringLife.

Follow on Twitter @HaveringLife

Search HaveringLife

FASHION

Style selection

For Her

Step the glamour up a notch with our best party outfits and accessories this season Image: M&Co. Upminster 33

three Top

Christmas Jumpers

1 2 3 1. Mistletoe robin Christmas jumper, £29, M&Co. Upminster 2. Lipsy Fairisle Yoke jumper, £38, Next, Romford 3. Charcoal sequin snowflake Christmas jumper, £23.40, Dorothy Perkins, Romford

FASHION

Image: Debenhams

Black beaded collar, £10, Miss Selfridge, Romford Grey embellished clutch bag, £10, Primark, Romford

Taryn embellished dress, £169, Monsoon, Romford

Black embellished 2in1 Jumper, £25.20, Dorothy Perkins, Romford

Sand jacquard jacket, £18, BHS, Romford

Gold premium sequin top, £65, Next, Romford

Ivory bead fringe bag, £17.50, BHS, Romford

HANDBAG FAVOURITES… Treat yourself to some new essentials this winter Square deco compact mirror, £9, Monsoon, Romford

Shellac embellished notebook and pen, £6, M&Co. Upminster

Flutter nail files (set of 3), £1, Superdrug, Upminster

Silver glitter card case, £6, M&Co. Upminster

Guerlain KissKiss Roselip hydrating & plumping tinted lip balm, £23.85, Debenhams, Romford 35

Gold rush

HaveringLife brings a little sparkle to your make-up bag

Gucci Guilty eau de toilette 50ml spray, £53, Superdrug, Upminster

Illamasqua eyeshadow in broken gold, £16.65, Debenhams, Romford

Guerlain L’Or radiance concentrate with pure gold, £40.05, Debenhams, Romford

BEAUTY

Stila magnificent metals foil finish eye shadow, £33.50, Boots, Romford

Little Mix Gold Magic eau de parfum 50ml, £26, Superdrug, Upminster

Yog Nog soap, £3.50 per 100g, Lush, Romford

Michael Kors Gold Collection gold gift set, £58, Superdrug, Hornchurch

Barry M glitter rush body glitter, £4.59, Boots, Romford Lancome Vernis in Love 555 - Christmas 2015, £13.50, Boots, Hornchurch

Colour Crush™ festive nail colour in gold, £5, The Body Shop, Romford

Almond nail & cuticle oil, £7.50, The Body Shop, Romford

Baked-to-last bronzer, £16, The Body Shop, Romford

Five gold rings bubble bar, £4.95, Lush, Romford

The magic of Christmas reusable bubble bar, £5.95, Lush, Romford

Guerlain gold eye-tech eye sculpt serum 15ml, £71.10, Debenhams, Romford 37

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

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FOOD & DRINK

HaveringLife

e v i t s e f

FEASTING

Image: Luxury festive wicker hamper, ÂŁ40, buy online at www.bhs.co.uk

Chef’s corner

HaveringLife brings you everything you need for a fabulous festive season

For the table

Head to BHS Romford for your pick of tableware this Christmas

Gold metalic spot star bowl, £6.40 40

Red felt cut out flower set of four placemats, £9.60

Melodia whiskey decanter by RCR, £19.99

FOOD & DRINK

Christmas chocolate shortcake selection, £3, Waitrose, Upminster

recipe

Baked Pears with Chocolate Sauce

Prosecco Spumante DOC magnum, £11.99, Aldi, Upminster

Elizabeth Shaw dark & milk mint chocolate collection, £3.99, Lidl, Romford

Etienne Dumont Brut Champagne, non vintage, £18, Sainsbury’s, Hornchurch Spiced plum and stem Ginger chutney £1, ASDA, Romford

All butter mince pies, Taste the Difference x6, £2.50, Sainsbury’s, Hornchurch Christmas chocolate dipped prunes, apricots & medjool dates, £7.99, Waitrose, Upminster

INGREDIENTS • 4 pears • 24g unsalted butter • 100ml double cream

• 4 squares tin foil • 70g milk chocolate buttons

METHOD 1. Cut the pears in half lengthways, and remove the core and seeds. 2. Put each prepared pear on a square of foil, divide the butter between them and fold up into a parcel. 3. Grill, turning occasionally for about 15 minutes, or bake in a hot oven. 4. Meanwhile, put the cream and the chocolate buttons in a small saucepan, heat through gently until the chocolate has melted and the sauce is smooth and hot. 5. Serve on the baked pears, great with a scoop of ice cream. Recipe courtesy of Aldi

RES T A U R A N T RE V IE W

MIRROR, HORNCHURCH

HaveringLife heads to Mirror in Hornchurch for a pre-theatre visit, to sample some Turkish cuisine.

here seems to be a huge increase in the number of Turkish restaurants opening in Havering recently. Mirror is one of the largest and is hard to miss with its purple exterior, taking over the premises of Havering Lighting in

Hornchurch. When the weather is warm, patrons can even sit outside for al fresco dining under the awnings. The staff are welcoming and as well as a bar inside, the kitchen is also visible, so diners can see delicious meats

cooking over hot coals, and the chefs putting each dish together. The menu is a good size with plenty of variety, and as we are browsing, complimentary warm bread and a very garlicky dip arrives to whet our appetites. Homemade tarama and cacik arrive first, large portions with yet more tasty bread. However, there were also many hot starters which were very tempting too, such as hellim and sucuk, and fried calamari. For mains, there

FOOD & DRINK

is a selection for all tastes, from a wide range of grilled meats and kebabs, to house specials such as kleftiko and wrapped lamb beyti. There are also vegetarian and fish dishes available. The lamb chops and baby chicken ordered are both very tasty, good sized portions which made for a slight struggle after all

the bread devoured beforehand! The tender meat was perfectly seasoned and served fresh and hot. Having a booking at the Queenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Theatre down the road, there was no time to sample one of the desserts, but we were lucky enough

to be presented with a small pile of Turkish Delight with our bill which finished off the evening nicely. Definitely a place to return to, and ideal for a large celebration with friends. 3-7 Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1TS 01708 925 114 www.mirrorrestaurant. co.uk

Dogâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Best

Friend

HaveringLife catches up with Sarah Fellowes, 34 from Gidea Park, who set up her in-home pet sitting company Paws Indoors earlier in the year

Maggie enjoying time with Sarah in her own home

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or the majority of us, Christmas is a time spent at home with family – eating too much, drinking too much and watching bad TV. But once the turkey leftovers have finally been cleared away and the tree hoisted back into the loft, the new year arrives and thoughts turn to filling the calendar with things to look forward to, including of course, holidays. For those with pets, and dogs in particular, this can leave owners feeling guilty leaving their beloved pooch behind and wondering which kennels are best to use locally – knowing that whatever the decision, it’s simply not the same for them

Sarah and HaveringLife’s Coco

Sarah Fellowes has always enjoyed being around animals, and was brought up on a small holding of dogs, horses and chickens as cuddles at home and favourite walking spots. But maybe Sarah has the answer. Let them stay in the comfort of their own home, and bring the carer to them, rather than the other way around, a one-toone service for pets that deserve the very best. Sarah Fellowes has always enjoyed being

around animals, and was brought up on a small holding of dogs, horses and chickens, so caring for them has always been a second nature to her. “I feel like I have a natural affinity with dogs and horses,” she says. So it seemed natural that when she saw a gap in the 45

stark contrast to usual home surroundings, and this change can cause their pet distress. I realised that for many pet owners they would prefer to have their pet cared for in their own home whilst they are away.” The two-inone service not only provides better security for the home itself, but also ensures that the Playing in the park with Jess pet being cared for is in Sarah has been caring for friends’ dogs surroundings familiar in their owner’s homes for many years and comfortable to whilst they were away on holiday them. Sarah’s love of dogs were on holiday, before market for a pet and is obvious, and she turning professional housesitting service, clearly enjoys playing and setting up Paws she jumped at the with them and making Indoors. chance to fill it. “The more I spoke to them happy. “When Although the pet owners, it occurred an owner is away for company itself is still to me that many people any length of time this relatively new, Sarah can feel distressing are reluctant to put has been caring for for a dog and mindful their dog in kennels friends’ dogs in their of this, I ensure that I when they go away, as owner’s homes for spend lots of quality many years whilst they the environment is in 46

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time with them to try and minimise the risk of him or her experiencing any abandonment issues.” One-to-one care is paramount and Sarah’s Paws Indoors service is a personalised one, tailored to the owner and their pet’s needs.

Every case is different, but some rules always apply. “I only look after one household of pets at a time, and therefore try to emulate the care and routine that the owner’s pets would be used to if their owner was there. Depending on the needs and

Smiles all round

routine of the dog, I offer a service where I stay at the home

Sarah with Teddy

overnight whilst the pet owner is away, and check in on the dog at lunchtime (if local). When I return to the home in the evening I take the dog/s for a walk, feed them, and ensure that they are well cared for – including playtime!” Paws Indoors has already acquired several happy customers in Havering. “I regularly look after a gorgeous

Border Collie in the local area called Maggie. She is an older dog but is full of energy and we have great times together. Maggie is unlike many other dogs in that she loves watching fireworks, she will bark and wag her tail furiously at them and jump in the air as if she is attempting to catch them. When I am caring for Maggie she likes to be taken for lots

Cuddles in the park with Jack Russell Jess

of walks followed by cuddles on the sofa.” She is also mindful of the special needs that some pets may have and is able to take these in her stride and tailor her service - for example when resident Sausage Dogs Coco and Max were being looked after: “Max was very poorly with a damaged spine last year, requiring surgery. Therefore my care of him is quite specific in that he isn’t allowed to jump up onto higher surfaces or back down again. He has made a good recovery now and it has been wonderful watching his progress. The Sausages are lovely, they are both very cheeky, full of energy and at times have me running in circles!” Sarah is also a keen

FEATURE

Eventually, it would be great to acquire a property suitable for dogs so that I can offer an additional service caring for dogs in my home.” Enjoying her own back garden Maggie tired from walkies! Sarah has an enhanced “When I am caring for Maggie she DBS check and charges likes to be taken for lots of walks from £12.50 per day but followed by cuddles on the sofa” will tailor-make a package to suit your a good reputation for horse rider and has needs. Call her on 07872 what I do. It would equine skills – so is 578994 for more able to offer services for be wonderful if my people going away who concept took off enough information or to make a booking, and give that I could work for have horses that need your pet a happy holiday looking after, plus other myself full time doing next year too! something that I love. small pets including rabbits, cats and fish. She can also offer an essential return to home grocery shop for a small additional fee, so that you arrive home to a full fridge. So what does the future hold? “I would like to develop a regular client base and acquire Sausage Dogs Coco and Max enjoying treat time 49

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PETS CORNER

o t g n i d r o c c a The world

COCO & MAX

HaveringLife’s resident sausage dogs keep their paws on the pulse, bringing you doggie facts, best buys and their top tweet

MAX

COCO

s the nights draw in and sadly the amount of time for walkies in daylight decreases, we are very much looking forward to Christmas and seeing what Santa Paws has in store for us this year. However we’re not so keen on the ‘hilarious’ outfits mum makes us wear over the festive season. Perhaps our new friend and doggie sitter Sarah Fellowes at Paws Indoors will save us from the embarrassment?

DOGGIE FACT Service do gs are trained to know whe n they are o n duty. W hen their harn ess is on, they know it’s b usiness time.

Christmas pudding dog jumper by House of Paws, £9.99, ww.petspyjamas.com

TOP TWEET: @KCLovesDogs Love everything about dogs? Look no further than our @instagram profile: http://bit.ly/1HxZNwT 51

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

INTERIORS

Inspirational

INTERIORS

Create a stylish entrance to your home this festive season, with our pick of the best wreaths to buy locally 53

4 3

5 54

INTERIORS

9 10 11 12

1. Wilko snowy pinecone wreath, £10, Wilkinson, Romford 2. Wilko natural pinecone wreath, £7, Wilkinson, Romford 3. Poinsettia berry wreath, £4.49, The Range, Romford 4. Mistletoe wreath, £7.99, The Range, Romford 5. Debenhams festive bell wreath, £14.40, Debenhams, Romford 6. Bauble wreath Christmas decoration - Holly and Ivy, £7.99, Argos, Hornchurch 7. Truffle bauble glitter & jewel wreath, £11.99, The Range, Romford 8. Circle wreath Christmas decoration - red berry, £14.99, Argos, Romford 9. Lit red berry willow heart, £20, Next, Romford 10. 20“ bauble wreath, £18, B&Q Romford 11. 16 “ Glitter Pine Cone Wreath, £15, B&Q Romford 12. Berries and pinecone wreath, £12.99, Homebase Romford 55

Vacation toâ&#x20AC;Ś

COLOGNE HaveringLife gets Christmassy at traditional markets in the festive German town

TRAVEL

lthough Christmas markets are now commonplace in the UK, nothing really beats the feeling of wrapping up warm and heading off to one of the traditional markets in Germany itself, with unique gifts, mulled wine and delicious food. With flights less than two hours from Stansted, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s much easier and quicker than you may think. The markets in Cologne attract around two million people each year, and with seven of them to explore, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the perfect destination to really get you in the Christmas mood. The Hotel Flandrischer Hof on Flandrische Strasse is in an ideal location for all the markets, 57

TRAVEL

with some rooms even overlooking one of them. They have varying opening times, with a couple only opening in the afternoon and into the evening, so you should plan your schedule with this in

mind. However, all are open until 9pm or 10pm regardless, so there is plenty of time to get all the shopping done. Each market

has a different feel or theme, so although visiting all makes for a busy trip, it is definitely worth attempting it. The closest market to the hotel is Rudolfplatz Christmas Market, which has a theme of the Grimm fairy tales. Here you can wander the stalls against the

Each market has a different feel or theme, so although visiting all makes for a busy trip, it is definitely worth attempting it historic backdrop of the medieval gate house Hahnentorburg. As with all of the markets, this one serves hot chocolate in specially designed mugs (which change slightly each year). You can return them once you are finished or keep for a small charge. Each 59

market has differently designed mugs – great for those who want to collect them all! The Christmas Avenue market is also close by. This is more of a late night destination, and is Cologne’s lesbian and gay market, decorated with tinsel and rainbow coloured decorations.

There is plenty to do besides shop, such as a nostalgic children’s roundabout, a puppet theatre, a Santa Claus’ grotto and many toy stands It’s lively with a great atmosphere – there is music and cabaret shows as you shop. The largest Christmas market at Cologne Cathedral has well over 160 wooden pavilions offering an array of gifts and food. It does get very busy but is well worth a visit. The oldest market in the city is The Neumarkt Christmas

Market, also known as the Angels Market – it has charmingly designed chalets and a feeling of glamour. For those with children, the Christmas Market on the Alter Markt (in the Altstadt – old town) is ideal as there is plenty to do besides shop, such as a nostalgic children’s roundabout, a puppet

travel

TRAVEL

theatre, a Santa Claus’ grotto and many toy stands, as well as an ice rink for all the family. See if you can spot the gnomes hidden about the market! Head to the Cologne Harbour Christmas Market to shop amongst picturesque surroundings. Look out for the white marquee pagoda tents by the river. Here you will find pretty decorations and all kinds of culinary delights. It is also very close to the Lindt museum which is great to visit if time allows. Finally, the Stadtgarten Christmas

Market, on the edge of Cologne’s oldest park has a relaxed and village like atmosphere with plenty of handmade goods to browse. Enter underneath the ‘Weinachtsmarkt’ sign into a world of nostalgia. There are plenty of places to eat and drink close to the hotel after all that shopping. Joe Champs is a lively American restaurant serving up steaks,

chicken and ribs, whilst for a quieter evening with delicious tapas, visit Los Flamencos. However many of the markets you are able to visit, a trip to Cologne is sure to get even Scrooge into the Christmas spirit. 63

Mini-break

Menorca HaveringLife jets off for a weekend of Tapas, Sangria and some relaxation in Menorca

TRAVEL

Where to stay For a short stay, the Hotel del Almirante (also known as Collingwood House) is ideally located just 15minutes drive from the airport, and situated between the capital, Mahon and Es Castell. The boutique hotel has a cosy and friendly feel with a pool to take a dip in on warm days. www.hoteldelalmirante. com

has a pretty harbour where you can sit with a cocktail and watch the boats come in and out as darkness falls. Ciutadella is a bus ride away (around 1 hour) from Mahon, and is an ideal place to enjoy some tapas and sangria for lunch. There are many shops and places to stop for an ice cream.

things to do Head to Mahon to take a trip on one of the yellow catamarans. The places to visit glass-bottomed boats Mahon is the largest are a great way to see city on the island, and the port and find out is around 30 minutes more about the history walk away. There are of it, with plenty of plenty of shops to photo opportunities explore, from clothes boutiques and pottery, and of course the to specialist food shops. chance to go below Es Castell is around 20 deck and see some of the fish swimming minutes walk in the below the water line. other direction and

drinking and dining Of course Tapas and Sangria are a must when visiting Spain! However, there are many good places to eat seafood and other dishes nearby. Pindapoi is fabulous to visit for a great mojito, and Chespir Bar is also perfect for sitting outside and soaking up the atmosphere. Dinkums on the harbour of Es Castell offers fresh seafood every day, including sardines, squid, sole and tuna. Several of the restaurants offer very reasonably priced 3-course set menus. Getting there Easyjet flies to Mahon from Gatwick. www.easyjet.com 65

The Directory

Where to find all the lovely things featured in this issue…

shopping HORNCHURCH Argos 0845 165 7274 84-86 High Street, RM12 4UH www.argos.co.uk Boots 442665 205 Station Lane, RM12 6LL www.boots.com Sainsbury’s 475214 101-105 High Street, RM11 1TX www.sainsburys.co.uk Superdrug 446742 70-74 High Street, RM12 4UW www.superdrug.com

ROMFORD B&Q 336600 Tangent Link, RM3 8GZ www.diy.com Debenhams 0844 561 6161 Market Place, RM1 3ET www.debenhams.com Homebase 0345 640 7034 Davidson Way, RM7 0AJ www.homebase.co.uk Lidl 0870 444 1234 Atlanta Blvd, RM1 1TB www.lidl.co.uk

The Body Shop 764808 46 South Street, RM1 1RB www.thebodyshop.co.uk the BREWERY, romford Hobbycraft 0845 051 6545 www.hobbycraft.co.uk The Range 771790 www.therange.co.uk the Liberty, romford BHS 0844 4885127 www.bhs.co.uk Boots 768017 www.boots.com Dorothy Perkins 760348 www.dorothyperkins.com H&M 0844 736 9000 www.hm.com H Samuel 746807 www.hsamuel.co.uk Lush 769379 www.lush.co.uk Miss Selfridge 743679 www.missselfridge.com Monsoon 747337 uk.monsoon.co.uk New Look 760637 www.newlook.com Next 0844 844 5235 www.next.co.uk Primark 721187 www.primark.com River Island 0844 847 2627 www.riverisland.com Superdry 760588 www.superdry.com

THE MALL, romford ASDA 388700 www.asda.com Blue Inc. 752847 www.blueinc.co.uk Poundland 606311 www.poundland.co.uk Wilkinson 738132 www.wilkinsonplus.com

UPMINSTER Aldi 0800 042 0800 119-129 St Mary’s Lane, RM14 2QB www.aldi.co.uk M&Co 251280 57 Station Road, RM14 2SU www.mandco.com Superdrug 220303 6 Bell Corner, Corbets Tey Road RM14 2AT www.superdrug.com Waitrose 224444 218 St Mary’s Lane, RM14 3BT www.waitrose.com