Heyford park magazine

HEYFORD PARK

MAGA ZINE August 2013

HERALDING OXFORDSHIRE’S GREATEST ASSETS BRITAIN’S BEST PALACE

FOOD FOR YOUR SOUL

ETHICAL FASHION EXPLAINED

THE VISION FOR BICESTER

TOP TRAVEL

HEALTHY LIVING

ACCESSORIES

THE SUPERFOODS

Welcome to the Heyford Park magazine Think of Oxfordshire and you think of universities, punting and Henley, but for those of us that live here there is more to life than these iconic institutions.

We are delighted to welcome you to the first edition of the Heyford Park Magazine, designed to link and showcase the very best of town and country living in Oxfordshire.

We want to provide Heyford Park residents and its surrounding communities with a true insight into this vibrant and varied region. From restaurant reviews and hidden gems to iconic motor sport and new business, this magazine is for our community so that we all enjoy the very best our beautiful countryside has to offer.

Contents 3. Restaurant Review 7. A Home at Heyford Park

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11. Heyford Park Community 14. Local Hotspots 15. Cold War Art at RAF Upper Heyford

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18. Ethical Fashion Designer 24. Blenheim Palace 30. Healthy Living and Nutrition 34. Top Travel Accessories

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36. Pioneer Square 40. Oxford Airport 44. Business Community

For information about advertising or submitting articles for the December issue of the Heyford Park Magazine please contact Chloe Craughan on:

46. Cherwell Innovation Centre

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52. Homeworking

T: 01869 238200 E: c.craughan@dorchestergrp.com

Front cover credit: Photo courtesy of Beverly & Pack, Flickr.com

48. Making Bicester’s Vision Your Reality

54. Green Bedding Company

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Restaurant Review

FOOD & FIREPLACES FOR YOUR SOUL Our very own food blogger Sarah McCready discovers the delights of The Oxford Arms

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Restaurant Review

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estled in one of North Oxfordshire’s prettiest villages, The Oxford Arms in Kirtlington is the perfect antidote to midweek blues, as Sarah McCready discovers.

“There are times in life when the pomp and pageantry of contemporary fine dining is exactly what the doctor ordered.

When celebrating a birthday or an anniversary, we often expect and indeed seek out a bit of smoke and mirrors (or, as often is the case, some form of decorative ‘foam’ and an inexplicably long, thin plate).

However, when you are feeling world-wearied the very last thing you want is someone playing around with your food. There is of course a difference between eating a meal and being fed. Eating a meal can be full of disappointment - think bad Italian chain restaurants that serve you a ‘Gamberetti Pizza’ with just one sad, lonely prawn in the middle. Being fed is an act of love - your mum feeds you when you pop home for Sunday lunch.

When mum’s kitchen is not open for business, we tend to turn to the ‘gastro-pub’ - a fairly new culinary

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When mum’s “kitchen is not open for business, we tend to turn to the ‘gastropub’ – a fairly new culinary invention for this country...

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invention for this country - as our next best alternative. The premise was simple; refined but heart-warming classics in a relaxed and informal environment. Yet too many supposed “pubs” are reaching for the reductioncovered paintbrush when they go to send dishes off their pass. Whilst a large part of me celebrates that we are now never too far away from a quality

meal, there are occasions when you want good, simple food and drink that speaks to your soul.

Thankfully, establishments like The Oxford Arms still exist. Not quite a destination pub, not quite a local boozer, the cosy confines of this nineteenth-century cottage boasts a menu of everyday classics elevated by local produce and homegrown vegetables. The menu is small, with daily specials at market price providing variety for regular diners.

Highlights of the meal included a daily special of seared Salcombe mackerel fillets, modestly served over rocket, home-grown cherry tomatoes with a balsamic reduction and a generous lemon wedge; nothing more or nothing less was needed.

In a similar vein, The Oxford Arms’ signature dish of fishcakes again demonstrates their ‘no frills’ attitude to food. Even the most discerning of diners would find it very difficult to turn their nose up at two enormous crispy cakes, packed full of big fish flakes and complemented by a smearing of home-made sweet chilli jam. For the carnivorous amongst us, a daily special of Kelmscott pork

Restaurant Review

fillets with apple mash and Ramsey black pudding was very special indeed and provided just a hint of fashionable pretention. The bread and butter pudding (loaf and butter pudding seems more apt - it was huge) did not disappoint either. Custardy and comforting with a brulée top, proving the food is a clear step up from mum’s, but not devoid of love.

Proprietor Bryn Jones, who runs the pub along with his brother Rod, earnestly claims that The Oxford Arms approaches their wine list in a similar way to their food menu. By using just four suppliers, the selection is small and classic, but of the three I tried (a light and very drinkable 2010 Chilean Merlot for £4.90 a glass, a 2010 Sancerre at £8.50 a glass that was much too sour and much too expensive, and a beautifully pale 2010 Pinot Rose

Is it a bit “expensive?

Perhaps. But I honestly believe the fireplaces and relaxed, inviting atmosphere created by the Jones Brothers are worth it...

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for £5.60 a glass) only one was disappointing.

Is it a bit expensive? Perhaps.

But I honestly believe the fireplaces and relaxed, inviting atmosphere created by the Jones Brothers are worth the extra £1 that you’ll pay per dish compared to similar local pubs. Once you’ve taken into account the home-grown produce, The Oxford Arms begins to seem like very good value indeed. So, come to The Oxford Arms for a mid-week supper - be indulgent, be comfortable and, most importantly, be fed.”

Please contact the Oxford Arms on 01869 350208 or visit www.oxford-arms.co.uk

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Restaurant Review

What we ate – Starters – Belgian Endive and Roquefort Salad with Walnuts £7 Bread basket and Olives to share £2.50

– Mains – Seared Salcombe Mackerel with Rocket and Balsamic Reduction £12.50 Salmon and Prawn Fishcakes with Sweet Chilli Jam £14 Kelmscott Pork Fillet with Apple Mash and Ramsey Black Pudding £14.50

– Dessert – Home-grown Strawberries with Honeycomb Ice Cream £6 Bread and Butter Pudding with Cream £6 Treacle Tart with Banana Ice Cream £6

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A home at Heyford Park All the benefits of urban living, in a beautiful rural setting

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he development of the iconic Heyford Park, once an historic RAF airbase, promises to be one of the most exciting developments in the region for many years and the perfect lifestyle location. Offering a range of high-end, well-designed modern housing, along with a wealth of modern facilities and abundant green spaces, Heyford Park will be a model of modern village living, in one of the most desirable locations in the country.

Paul Silver, executive director of Dorchester Living, owner and developer of Heyford Park, explains his vision: “With a long history of serving people at the heart of the community, this is a new and exciting chapter in life at Heyford Park. From spacious, modern homes and family-friendly facilities to

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With a long history of serving people at the heart of the community, this is a new and exciting chapter in life at Heyford Park.

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open, green spaces and rolling country views, we want to give residents all the benefits they would expect from urban living with the attractiveness of modern country life”.

With a successful community already established, Heyford Park will offer new and existing residents an exciting range of refurbished and new-build homes to suit all budgets, from two bed starter homes to substantial family properties.

A unique blend of character, heritage and modern design, the first phase of this 1247 acre development provides home owners with spacious new build properties that have been designed to provide the best of open plan living as well as exceptional entertaining space. Alongside the new build development, two and three bed single storey American 7

designs, some with floor to ceiling windows, bring a new relaxed edge to lateral living.

“A successful community is one that comprises all types of people, from young people investing in their first home and young families to more established households and people who have retired.” Paul comments.

“We want to create something for all these people and our diverse range of housing will enable us to do just that. We also want to provide help and advice to those who are looking to buy or rent at Heyford Park, so we encourage people to come and talk to us about the range of options available and how schemes like the Government’s ‘Help to Buy’* could work for them”.

In order to support Heyford Park’s growing community, Dorchester Living is designing a vibrant centre for the community. It will feature a village green and children’s play area, framed with new period-style villas and a family-friendly village pub. There will also be a community hall, a village shop stocked with all the essentials and an all-new village high street offering a range of places to eat, drink and shop. At the heart of the village, these community facilities will be an important place where families can spend time together and the community can meet for group activities and to celebrate events.

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Paul continues: Heyford Park “is not just a new

housing development – it’s a lifestyle choice. We want residents to become part of village life and to respond to their needs. If residents feel there are facilities that would be useful to them, we want to hear from them and work with them to make Heyford Park the best community hub it could be – after all, we’re a community builder and local residents are an important part of that

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Business community Based in the north of Heyford Park, there is a thriving business community employing over 1,000 workers. Of these companies, Integration Technologies recently won the Queen’s Award for International Trade and was double winner in the Bicester Village Awards where it scooped ‘Business of the Year’ and ‘Business Person of the Year’.

Earmarked for further investment, this community will continue to grow alongside the residential community and will provide a diverse range of training, apprenticeship and employment opportunities across a number of sectors.

Interest in this new community is set to be strong when homes go on sale in Autumn this year, so please do get in touch if you would like to find out more about life at Heyford Park.

To register your interest, please call the sales team on 01869 238238 or email info@heyfordpark.com for more information. *For more information about the Government’s ‘Help to Buy’ scheme, please visit www.helptobuy.org.uk

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Heyford Park Free School As one of the most exciting developments at Heyford Park, Principal David Castles takes a look at what makes Heyford Park Free School a truly inspiring place to be.

A small and inclusive all-through school located at the heart of the site, the Heyford Park Free School offers places for students from the age of 4 through to 19.

Created by a small group of committed local parents, residents and business leaders in 2012, the school is part of the Government’s Free Schools Initiative, designed to respond to the wants and needs of local people to improve the provision of education in their community. As such, Heyford Park Free School is central to the vision for a new and vibrant community at Heyford Park and both parents and students are a valuable part of this.

As North Oxfordshire’s only all-through school, Heyford Park Free School offers a consistent personalised education from Reception through to Sixth Form.

Heyford Park Free School Principal, David Castles, comments: “One of the most important things about our school is that it’s small and has a truly personal approach to education.

“By working closely with each student we want to encourage them to recognise their strengths, identify

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their own aims and aspirations and achieve what they are truly capable of. From day one, each student will be given an Individual Learning Plan that sets them on their way to achieve their best possible results.

We believe we have excellent staff and, as our students progress through the school, our teachers will work with them and their parents to understand their individual needs, personal objectives and strengths, while providing guidance throughout their educational life.”

Heyford Park Free School strives for excellence and has set ambitious targets for its students. A key offering is an extended school day from 8am till 4pm, building up to an extra year of learning by the end of a student’s school career.

There are also additional early morning breakfast clubs and after school clubs that enable students to be on site from 7.30am until 5.45pm, providing flexibility for working parents. All students are expected to achieve five A* - C grades at GCSE, including English and Maths and the School’s specialism of History.

Each day will include at least one hour of English, Maths and Science

and, given the site’s unique past as a former RAF and Cold War airbase, Historical enquiry is at the heart of the curriculum.

David comments: “Through a rich and varied curriculum, we aim to deliver a high standard of education but we’re also keen focus on the emotional and social development of our children, not just their grades. Our students are encouraged to explore their environment as part of learning and make the best of Heyford Park’s thriving community, vast amounts of green space and unique heritage.

“With specialised modern teaching facilities, links to businesses - on and off site - and academic institutions such Oxford University, our students are actively encouraged to be high achievers and to build real ambition for life after school – and it’s our job to ensure they have the qualifications they need to get there.”

Admissions Heyford Park Free School is a small and nurturing school and year groups are restricted to 60 students in total. First open to Reception and Year 7 for the 2013/2014 academic year, the school will grow in phases to eventually cater for up to 840 students in total.

Heyford Park Free School works with the Oxfordshire County Council to manage admissions. Admissions can be made via the Council’s Common Admissions Preference Form (CAPF) or via the schools website www.heyfordparkfreeschool.org If you would like to find out more information please email info.heyfordparkfreeschool@ dorchestergrp.com or call 01869 238200

Heyford Park Community Heyford Park is a thriving community with a wealth of family-friendly community groups and organisations to take part in. From youth groups and sports clubs to prayer evenings and resident groups, there is something for everyone, young and old.

Heyford Park Residents and Community Development Association Heyford Park has an active Residents and Community Development Association which has represented the Heyford Park community for the past eight years. Managed by a committee of volunteers, the association regularly comes together to discuss issues within the local area and act as a voice for the local community.

If you are interested in joining or would like to find out more about upcoming events and activities at Heyford Park, please visit www.heyfordparkresidents.org.uk

Heyford Park Chapel The Chapel at Heyford Park is part of The Cherwell Valley Benefice in The Oxford Diocese, within the Church of England. One of seven churches across the valley, the chapel also has close links with churches and community groups in Bicester, including the Anglican, Methodist and Roman Catholic churches, the Salvation Army and Bicester Community Church. Throughout the year, the chapel runs a variety of events from bible teaching, worship and family-friendly services to annual barbeques, school holiday clubs and ‘kidz church’.

To find out more about upcoming activities or weekly services please visit the chapel website www.heyfordparkchapel.org.uk or call Reverend Eddie Green on 01869 340562

Chesterton Cricket Club Paul Hammond, Chesterton Club Captain said “Since suffering an arson attack on our Pavilion we have been working hard to raise the money needed to replace the equipment that was lost. We would like to thank Heyford Park for their support in helping us to achieve our goals and acknowledge that without the help of our sponsors this would not have been possible.

We would encourage players and supporters from the local area register with our club and make use of our new facilities by contacting us through our website www.pitchero.com/clubs/chesterton

1st Heyford Park Scout Group During the past 10 years, the 1st Heyford Park Scout Group has gone from strength to strength and is now one of the most successful scout groups in the area. The Group consists of a Beaver Colony, a Cub Pack and a Scout Troop and is open to boys and girls aged six to 15. Focusing on traditional scouting activities it offers a wide variety of activities and challenges include archery, camping, abseiling and shooting, and takes part in all the district and county events and competitions.

For more information, please visit www.heyfordparkscouts.org.uk or email info@heyfordparkscouts.org.uk or follow the group on Twitter @HeyfordScoutsUK for the latest posts and pictures 11

The Millennium Tapestry Company at Heyford Park T

he Millennium Tapestry Company is a not-for-profit organization set up in 1998 to run collaborative arts projects for schools.

The goal of all our projects is to produce wonderful artworks that often constitute enduring legacies of events or anniversaries; they also help children learn about issues like caring for the environment, recycling and reducing energy consumption, appreciating the cultural differences between people from diverse backgrounds and understanding disability. Children are encouraged to take pride in their local area and schools to form enduring links with their wider communities. All our projects are fully inclusive: schools from very different communities take part and special schools are able to contribute on a level playing field with other schools.

Our first project was a huge tapestry to celebrate the millennium, which attracted 1,700 schools across the United Kingdom from the Western Isles of Scotland to Jersey.

Its success meant we very quickly needed a warehouse to operate from and we were lucky enough in 1999 to be offered one in an ideal location on Upper Heyford. We soon found its proximity to the M40 and the friendly atmosphere on the former air force base was perfect for running large-scale - sometimes alarmingly large-scale - projects.

We have always been able to rely on support from Oxfordshire County Council, Cherwell District Council, Oxfordshire Community Foundation, Bicester Business Breakfast Club, local businesses, everyone on the base and above all now from the Dorchester Group. There have been so many

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Our first “project was a huge tapestry to celebrate the millennium, which attracted 1,700 schools...

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occasions when we have had large deliveries needing to be warehoused urgently or exhibitions loaded fast on to huge lorries, and help has always been on hand from our neighbours or from Heyford Park staff.

Over the last fourteen years our work has grown from a local operation to assume national and sometimes worldwide proportions.

But we have always felt it has been well grounded in North Oxfordshire and in Heyford Park. We never lose sight of the fact that we are only enablers; it is the children who design and create the tapestries, and so many of them are from Oxfordshire and surrounding counties. We are proud to be working in Heyford Park and we hope that our neighbours here who have children at a local school will feel proud too if they have played a part in creating one of the tapestries.

Our last project, the Thames Heritage Tapestry, involved schools from Stroud to Southend, including 26 in Oxfordshire, and resulted in a multifaceted portrait of the River from its source to the estuary. The project was awarded the Inspire Mark

by the organizers of the London 2014 Olympic and Paralympic Games and became part of the Cultural Olympiad.

After exhibitions in the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford, the Royal Festival Hall in London, Windsor Guildhall and Hampton Court Palace, the grand finale was a three-month show in the South Transept of St Paul’s Cathedral from July to September, covering the whole period of the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

We are currently working on a tapestry for the cultural festival of another major sports event, this time the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games. However, we are hoping soon to be launching a new tapestry that will be very specifically designed to promote harmony between different communities, something that is now becoming increasingly important as some individuals and groups seem hell bent on creating divisions.

Children do not naturally harbour any prejudices and if we can help reinforce the openness of their minds while they are still young we can all look forward to a better future.

For more information please visit www.goldentapestry.com

Oxfordshire’s Leading Mobile Charity P

roviding play opportunities for over 34 years. The remit of the charity is ‘to provide, or assist in the provision of recreational and leisure-time activities for children, young people and adults.’

Central to this and most visible is our blue double decker bus that has been expertly converted for play, where children engage in activities supported by dedicated project workers. This element of our work is particularly valued in rural areas where activities for play are often limited.

The main Playbus is just one element of our charity. Our youth bus offers young people an alternative to hanging around the street. We are currently doing the majority of this

work in and around Bicester, which is funded by Bicester Village.

Key to the charity is the sensory bus which when launched in 2002 was England’s first mobile sensory unit. The sensory bus is a place where children and adults with disabilities and conditions (including Alzheimer’s) explore and develop their senses and skills with soft play areas, padded floors and walls and equipment which make dramatic changes to the sensory room environment using sound and lighting.

With the stage bus we are hoping to bring music to the masses, working with ‘World School of Rock’ we are planning a number of music workshops throughout Oxfordshire

designed to help nurture young talent The charity is currently able to provide a limited amount of these services for free due to funding from Oxfordshire County Council, but is constantly fundraising in order to help more people.

You may have seen our distinctive Big Blue Playbus as it travels from Bicester to Brize Norton, Witney to Wolvercote and many other routes across Oxfordshire’s 1,006 square miles. Relatively few people however know that it has been a charity for over 34 years, let alone the diverse services it provides.

For more information please visit www.oxonplaybus.com

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Hot Spots

Local Hotspots 1

1 A43

A422 BANBURY

A413 A422

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A421

A422

BUCKINGHAM

A361 M40

A413

A4421

BICESTER A4260

A44

A4095

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4 5

A41 M40

A40

9

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OXFORD A420

4

8

A415

A418 M40

A34

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Blenheim Palace

Situated in Woodstock, Blenheim Palace is surrounded by over 2,000 acres of ‘Capability’ Brown landscaped parkland, the great lake, and beautiful formal gardens, offering an unforgettable day out for all.

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University of Oxford

An extensive and exciting collection of European orchestral woodwind instruments donated to the University of Oxford by Philip Bate.

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Bicester Village

Bicester Village is a large outlet centre offering all the premium brands from jack wills to Gucci at discounted prices. Situated in the heart of Bicester it is open daily from 9am–9pm and 10am–7pm on Sundays

A40

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Bicester Market & Farmers Market

Bicester Market is open every Friday.

Farmers Market is open on the second Thursday of every month.

A41

A34

Deddington Antiques Centre

Open 7 days a week (Mon–Sat 10am–5pm and Sun 11am–5pm) and open most bank holidays, with plenty of free parking in Deddington, this is a must visit centre: 01869 338968 3

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Banbury Museum is situated in an attractive town centre and waterside location. The iconic modern building displays local history collections and hosts touring exhibitions. The Museum offers a family friendly approach, with a busy programme of activities and events for all ages.

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A43

Banbury Museum

Woodstock

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Bicester Hot Air Balloon

Prices start at £119PP Operated by Virgin hot air balloons, this fantastic experience gives you the opportunity to see Oxfordshire like never before.

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Bernwood Butterfly Trial

Woodstock is a living town with busy local residents going about their daily activities.

Post Office, Banks, supermarket, newsagent amongst other amenities are all to be found in the same area, with people always willing to assist visitors with honesty and a smile.

Path-side vegetation management has provided the favoured habitats for butterflies and other flora and fauna. Follow the yellow waymarked path on an hour and a half walk around the forest to discover the variety of habitats and beautiful scenery full of beauty and butterflies.

10 Bodleian Library

11 Oxford Castle

The Bodleian Library is the main research library of the University of Oxford, is one of the oldest libraries in Europe, and in Britain is second in size only to the British Library with over 11 million items.

Bringing Oxford’s hidden history to life...

Led by one of our costumed character guides, the rich history of the castle will be revealed and explored!

COLD WAR ART AT RAF UPPER HEYFORD The buildings department at Oxford Archaeology South has been recording the wall art at former RAF Upper Heyford in Oxfordshire.

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All photography by Oxford Archaeology

The art recorded thus far is predominantly located in barrack blocks within the domestic site, but there are also numerous examples within the Flying Field which we will be recording imminently. The majority of art was executed on the internal walls of military buildings by American servicemen during their occupation of the airbase in the Cold War.

War art is a valuable contemporary resource, providing personal and direct representation of 20th-century military activity and opposition to it. During the ‘spit and polish’ era of the Second World War, artwork was discouraged. However, from the 1980s under ‘Project Warrior’, war art was actively encouraged by the authorities to promote group cohesion and encourage esprit de corps. Servicemen also used it to liven up living areas and reinforce ownership of space.

This is reflected in the war art at Upper Heyford, with many patriotic examples, including squadron emblems and images incorporating American colours and the RAF insignia. Other examples are casual graffiti 16

to alleviate an aspect of service absent from most military history books: boredom. The great variety of images provides an insight into cultural and political life of the era, and demonstrate a very visually-aware generation. There are images of Judge Dredd, Garfield and various Doonesbury characters from American newspapers, as well as impressive artistic murals.

Some examples are more sinister reminders of the very ‘hot’ political climate of the era, including atom bombs and fighter planes. One early 1990s image shows an F111 with Saddam Hussein in the centre of a target with the words, ‘This is not what I meant when I said I wanted to be in the center of things.’

SOCIAL LIFE OF LITTLE AMERICA T

he social life at USAF Upper Heyford was always vibrant and gave those soldiers and families stationed there access to home comforts that, at the time, weren’t readily available off base or were prohibitively expensive if available within the UK. As anyone who has lived in another country will tell you, there are things that you take for granted at home that you long for when they’re out of reach. Fortunately, Heyford facilities included the BX (Base Exchange) which provided the latest cassettes, videos, clothes and electronics which for many was just like being back in the USA. The Four Seasons which sold sporting goods, toys, patio furniture (and rain covers). The Class Six which sold alcohol at reduced prices and the Commissary for all our foods from the US, Germany, Japan and all manner of nations. Certain items were rationed; alcohol, fuel and tobacco products were all limited and still are to this day in USAFE. For recreational time the base was also home to a bowling alley with 20 lanes, an arcade and burger bar;

a game of bowling was only $1. There were leagues for the serious bowlers and the bases would compete in European championships against other bases. The clubs on base provided music, food, dancing and activities. It wasn’t just cover bands either, Rose Royce Sang here and Chaka Kahn brought the funk to Upper Heyford while the many people living here which was up to 1200, enjoyed imported American beers and danced with friends. The Sky King Theatre showed the latest releases before they arrived in the local towns and the sports fields kept everyone in practice, (American) Football and Softball were the most popular.

For a further insight into life on base please get in contact with the RAF Upper Heyford Heritage Trust by: Tel: 01869 238200 www.rafuhhc.org.uk

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FASHION

FENG HO Ethical Fashion Designer Innovation Award Winner

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FASHION

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All photography by Matt Gillespie

ward winning ethical designer Feng Ho uses a range of sustainable textiles such as Tencel, soy, organic cotton and hemp. Feng Ho’’s bespoke range of inspiring womenswear is hand-crafted in her Oxford based studio.

I am often amazed at the different reactions I get when I tell people that I’m an ethical fashion designer. They range from ‘what’s that?’ to ‘of course I never shop at Primark’. I can’t change the buying habits of the nation, but I strive to influence the public’s perception of what ethical fashion is, and demonstrate how the right choice can make a difference. In this short article, I hope to give you a brief outline of the main principles of ‘Ethical Fashion’ by giving examples through my work practice.

Ethical fashion is an extremely complex term, but I will be focusing on: the use of materials that have minimal negative effect on the environment, and implementing a manufacturing process that benefits the welfare of the community.

Starting with fabrics – most people love the feel of cotton clothing, but are completely unaware of the damaging effect that growing it has on the environment. It is an extremely thirsty crop so requires gallons of water, more so than any other natural fibre textile. I would highly recommend reading ‘White Gold’ - a report by the Environmental Justice Foundation. This report highlights the devastating impact cotton farming has on the environment & human rights in Uzbekistan. Over the years, I’ve used 19

FASHION

alternative textiles such as hemp, organic & fair trade cotton, Tencel, end-of-line British textiles, and fabrics that use azo-free dyes.

Moving on to production processes: I’ve always supported the UK fashion industry by manufacturing in London. There is a great advantage in being able to visit the factory floor, communicate directly with the workers, and building up good relationships. However, these days I’m often sewing up bespoke orders within my East-Oxford studio. For my most recent project, I worked with the Mayamiko Trust in Malawi. They’ve set up a women’s co-operative, training the women to sew and also teaching essential business skills to enable them to one day run one on their own.

Mayamiko also provide a crèche & school for the workers’ children.

Ethical fashion has moved on considerably over the past 10 years – it is stylish, flattering and comfortable to wear. I aim

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What is the future for Feng Ho Fashion?

There will be a new collection, I can’t exactly say when as I’m about to enter motherhood for the first time.

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to create timeless cuts, which don’t follow fashion trends but makes a statement. My pattern cutting process is playful; I like to experiment with different geometric shapes in order to create softly structured forms. Often the simplest shapes lead to the most striking designs. I was delighted to win the Ethical Fashion Forum Innovation Award in 2010. My designs are sold in Oxford, Brighton and Lyon.

I grew up in Oxford but moved to London to study & work. I moved back to my hometown 4 years ago and have never regretted it. I don’t miss the hustle & bustle of London, I’ve become calmer and more creative, and I never feel deprived of culture here as there is so much going on. It has been great working amongst like-minded people at Magdalen Road Studios. Magdalen Road is a fantastic example of the diversity and dynamism that is prevalent in Oxford. I’m also lucky

FASHION

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FASHION

to live in a Fairtrade city - there’s a great choice of ethical products available to choose from. Often the best shops are hidden away, such as Fairtrade at St Michaels on Cornmarket Street and Exclusive Roots on Woodstock Road.

What is the future for Feng Ho Fashion? There will be a new collection, I can’t exactly say when as I’m about to enter motherhood for the first time. I have been investigating extending the life of garments through design - for example maternity clothing that can be worn before, during and after pregnancy. I’ve been experimenting with minimising waste through the pattern cutting process, as well as continually researching new sustainable fabrics.

I feel that the future of Ethical Fashion is positive. High street 22

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I feel that the future of Ethical Fashion is positive. High street shops are taking note, with major retailers such as Marks & Spencer and H&M taking the lead.

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shops are taking note, with major retailers such as Marks & Spencer and H&M taking the lead. There will be a day when the consumer won’t be presented with a choice to buy responsibly or not, as only the ethical product will be available to buy. However, the consumer has to be empowered; they should have every right to demand total transparency from retailers. Our attitude to consumption in the UK will have to change so that fast fashion will fall out of fashion.

In the words of Anthony Kleanthous “We consume in a day what it has taken the planet 10,000 days to produce”.

For more designs from Feng Ho please visit www.fengho.co.uk

Blenheim Palace Britain’s Greatest Palace ‘The splendour and tranquillity of the 2,100 acres of landscaped parkland and the formal gardens are unrivalled anywhere in Britain. Read on to discover what a summer time at Blenheim holds for the unsuspecting visitor.’

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n passing through the triumphal arch at the Woodstock entrance to Blenheim Palace, it is understandable to see why Sir Winston Churchill’s father Lord Randolph Churchill proclaimed ‘This is the finest view in England’.

The towers of the Palace appear some way off to the left, while far away to the right the Column of Victory, topped with its statue of the 1st Duke of Marlborough, rises nobly above the trees. But what takes the eye and holds it is the great lake and its island of poplars, with Sir John Vanbrugh’s Grand Bridge and ‘Capability’ Brown’s hanging beech woods beyond. This awesome view appears so effortless and natural, but in reality was designed to take the breath away.

The Palace was built on Queen Anne’s orders for John Churchill, 1st Duke of Marlborough, in recognition of his victory at the Battle of Blenheim in 1704; a victory that saved Europe from French domination.

It is clear to see why Blenheim Palace deserves its World Heritage status. The splendour and tranquillity of the 2,100 acres of landscaped parkland and the formal gardens are unrivalled anywhere in Britain and the Palace interiors beautifully balance the delicate with the awe-inspiring, from the imposing vastness of the Great Hall, to the intricate detailing of the Red Drawing room.

Through its timeless sophistication, beauty and overwhelming scale, and through its inspirational history, the allure of Blenheim Palace will make a return visit irresistible. The Palace is still home to the 11th Duke and Duchess of Marlborough and their family, and is the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill.

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Blenheim Palace is set in 2,100 acres of spectacular parkland “in the heart of the Oxfordshire Cotswolds and is only eight miles from Oxford. ” The Park and Gardens

Treasures

Blenheim Palace is winner of the 25th Historic Houses Association/Christies Garden of the Year Award. The splendour and tranquillity of the ‘Capability’ Brown landscaped parkland and the Formal Gardens are unrivalled in Britain. From the Water Terraces, the Rose Garden and the Grand Cascade to the magnificent lake, fringed by majestic oaks and maples, there is beauty to be found in all seasons. Visit the Secret Garden with its winding paths, streams and water features, or cross Vanbrugh’s Grand Bridge to walk up to the Column of Victory.

In addition to the unique Palace and stunning gardens, a full programme of special events, the incredible visitor experience ‘Blenheim Palace: The Untold Story’, and live entertainers, mean there are even more reasons to visit in 2013.

Blenheim Palace is set in 2,100 acres of spectacular parkland in the heart of the Oxfordshire Cotswolds and is only eight miles from Oxford.

Set in glorious parkland, Blenheim Palace is a spectacular example of English Baroque architecture and houses some of the finest portraits, tapestries, sculptures, china and painted ceilings in Europe.

Designated by the United Nations as a World Heritage Site in 1987, the Palace carries a unique aura of history and achievement. Everywhere the Palace’s design reflects this triumphal mood, from the military details of the trophies on the colonnades to the scale of the heroic Grand Bridge. The dramatic effect harmonises perfectly with ‘Capability’ Brown’s great lake and hanging beech woods beyond.

Guided tours of the State Rooms run throughout most of the season, with enlightening facts on the collections and on the people, history and events that shaped the Palace. The walls are decorated with beautiful portraits and a fascinating collection of tapestries commissioned by the 1st Duke. Specialist talks and tours of the Palace and its

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Blenheim Palace is also famed as the “birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. ” collections, and of the Gardens, are available throughout the season.

Visitors start their tour in The Great Hall, remarkable for its 20 metre high ceiling. This was painted in 1716 by Sir James Thornhill and shows the 1st Duke of Marlborough victorious, with the battle order at Blenheim spread for view. The Green Drawing Room and the two rooms beyond it also have their original ceilings, designed

by Nicholas Hawksmoor. Blenheim Palace is also famed as the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Visitors can see the Churchill Exhibition located inside the Palace, and the room where he was born in 1874, which offers a fascinating insight into the life of our most beloved leader.

The Palace houses an enviable collection of family portraits including a huge painting by Closterman of John Churchill, the 1st Duke of Marlborough, with his wife Sarah and their children. Other outstanding portraits include Hudson’s 3rd Duke and family, Joshua Reynolds’ painting of the 4th Duke and family, Sargents painting of the 9th Duke and family, and the 4th Duke by Romney.

In the Saloon the magnificent murals and ceiling were painted by Louis Laguerre. The table is decorated with silver gilt and laid with a Minton service, just part of the collection of rare porcelain on view throughout the Palace. The large Silver Centrepiece by Garrard shows Marlborough still on horseback after his victory at the Battle of Blenheim, writing the famous dispatch to his Duchess.

The First, Second and Third State Rooms lead from the Saloon through to the Long Library. The third is sometimes called the Boulle Room, after the furniture it contains. Indeed, the Palace’s collection of Chippendale and Boulle furniture has been described by a leading furniture expert as “second to none in a historic home”.

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The walls of all three rooms are hung with the Victory Tapestries, which the 1st Duke of Marlborough commissioned from the designer de Hondt and the Brussels weaver, Judocus de Vos, to depict scenes from the battlefield in intricate detail.

Every year essential restoration and conservation programmes take place to ensure the fabric of the awe-inspiring Palace and Gardens are maintained for future generations. In 2008 one of the series of Bouchain tapestries, and the Blenheim tapestry were sent for essential restoration. In the same year, the painted ‘eyes’ of the 9th Duke and Duchess situated in the North Portico ceiling of the Palace were restored. Originally painted in the 1920’s, expert gilders used over 6,000 sheets of 24-carat gold leaf for the restitution of the gilded areas, to return the eyes to their former glory.

In the Long Library the extraordinarily fine stucco decoration of the ceiling is by Isaac Mansfield. The magnificent Library measures 56 metres long, housing over 10,000 books, and is considered to be Nicholas Hawksmoor’s finest room at Blenheim Palace. The Willis organ at the north end was installed by the 8th Duke in 1891 and is the largest privately owned organ in Europe.

It is in excellent condition and played very frequently – much to the delight of visitors.

Through its timeless sophistication and beauty, and through its inspirational history including the permanent visitor experience ‘Blenheim Palace: The Untold Story’, the allure of Blenheim Palace will make a return visit irresistible.

For more information please contact Blenheim Palace on: 01993 810500 or visit their website: www.blenheimpalace.com

27–29 Causeway,Bicester, OX26 6AN T: 01869 248495 E: bicester@anneveckhair.com

DOG AND CAT GROOMING AND ALL PET CARE SERVICES • Grooming - Basic (bath and dry, clean ears, cut claws) • Clipper and scissoring all breeds, hand stripping • Collection and drop off service • Cat and all small animal visits while you are away on holiday or just for the day • All small animal boarding in my home Please contact Anita on: T: 01869 233 939 M: 07986 610 030

E: anita-scott@hotmail.co.uk www.happytailsbicester.co.uk

Healthy Living

Healthy Living and Nutrition Elena Bedford – Whole Foods Consultant, Blogger and Food Writer

The British summertime is upon us and is the season to enjoy long summer walks followed by pub lunches, family gatherings and dining out with friends. But if you’re committed to healthy eating, eating out can pose quite a challenge!

The good news is you don’t have to sacrifice flavour or fun with a healthy diet.

Here are some top tips when it comes to eating out!

1

Order ‘off menu’

Don’t be afraid to order ‘off menu’. Do some research and call ahead; many restaurants are more than happy to alter menu choices to your requests.

Ask for fish and meats simply grilled rather than battered and fried, skip the sauce and request veggies lightly cooked.

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2

No bread basket

Stay clear of the bread basket!

Not only will you avoid eating highly processed flours, you’ll save room for more nutritious foods later on.

3

Side dressing

Ask for dressings on the side.

This way you can add much less dressing or skip it all together.

Healthy Living

4

‘Multiple starters’

Consider ordering several starters (be sure to include a salad) instead of a main - this maximises the meal’s nutritional profile and keeps it varied and exciting!

5

Soup & fruit

Choose soup for a starter and fruit for dessert. This instantly increases the fruit and veg content of your meal while keeping you feeling full and satisfied.

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Healthy Living

In Season!

Summer broad bean salad – Serves 2 to 4 – 400g/3-4 cups podded broad beans 4-5 tomatoes Zest and juice of 1 lemon 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil Handful of fresh mint Handful of fresh basil

The summer months see an abundance of fresh produce here in the UK. There are no shortages of sweet strawberries, tart blackcurrants, redcurrants, raspberries and gooseberries, rhubarb, green beans (broad, runner, french), cucumbers, tomatoes, sweet corn, greens and courgettes.

Make the most of these delicious ingredients with this zesty broad bean salad! > 32

Sea salt and black pepper to taste 100g soft goats cheese 1 Bring a pan of water to the boil.

Add the broad beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until just cooked. Drain and leave to cool slightly. When cool enough to handle, pop any larger beans out of their husks.

2 Quarter the tomatoes and roughly chop the herbs and put them in a serving bowl along with the broad beans. Add the remaining ingredients (apart from the cheese) and mix together well.

3 Finish by crumbling the soft goat cheese over the top of the salad and serving with crusty wholegrain bread.

Healthy Living

1. Samphire This has a relatively short season but is well worth hunting down when it’s around. Rich in vitamins (especially A and C) and minerals, it is also said to aid digestion. Pick it growing wild or buy from local fishmongers. Cook it lightly steamed or enjoy it raw in salads to make the most of this divine-tasting vegetable.

2. Blackcurrants

The top 5 UK superfoods!

‘Superfoods’ seems to be a buzz word right now and marketers everywhere are jumping on the superfood bandwagon. Some of the more exotic sounding such as ‘spirulina and maca’ are showing up everywhere from store-bought juices to snack bars and are a great addition to your diet. But do we have to go so far to find these nutrient-dense foods? It might surprise you to find out that we have many superfoods right here on our doorstep.

Don’t limit this amazing berry to a bottled squash! Super rich in antioxidants especially vitamin C and low in sugars, this is the berry to leave the blueberry quaking in its boots. Add to smoothies, pies and fruit salads.

3. Rosehips Another ingredient that’s really high in Vitamin C, rosehip syrup used to be a familiar cold-busting ingredient in past generations.

Try making your own syrup with honey instead of sugar for a healthier option.

4. Linseed (flax seed) Packed with fibre and healthy omega 3’s, British-sourced seeds and oil are readily available on the internet. Add the ground seeds to porridge and the oil to salad dressings or smoothies.

5. Bee pollen & local honey While it is hard to find Britishsourced bee pollen, it is easy to find a local and ethical bee keeper who produces unfiltered and unpasteurised honey. Unprocessed honey contains traces of pollen and royal jelly and is a healthy food packed with enzymes, vitamins and minerals. It is said that local honey can even help with hay fever, so it’s worth tracking down a local supply!

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Toptips

Top Travel Accessories Must have travel accessories to make your summer travels complete – Maz Beagley

Asus Tai Chi £1,499 Available at PC World

Whether you’re travelling with your laptop for business or pleasure you should consider investing in one of these Asus Convertible Laptops. When you’re working your way through Word docs and Excel spreadsheets then you can rely on this super thin laptop with its super fast Intel® Core™ i7 Processor to keep up with your fast paced work life.

And when it’s time to relax, simply close the lid and use the 13.3 inch touch screen on the outside to touch and swipe your way through all the userfriendly Windows 8 menus.

Breffo Spiderpodium £14.95 Available from www.breffo.com

The Breffo Spiderpodium can be used to hold, cradle or secure a multitude of gadgets, including camera, mobile phones and mini-tablets. It’s the perfect accessory for anyone on an adventure.

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Toptips

Credit Card Razor £9.99 Available from www.firebox.com

This Credit Card Razor features a detachable razor, two spare blades and an inbuilt mirror.

Meaning you’ll have everything you need for looking your best on holiday.

FieldCandy What a Melon Tent £495.00

Ruark Audio DAB Radio with Travel Pack £229.90

Available from www.cuckooland.com

Available from John Lewis

FieldCandy tents were a huge hit at Glastonbury this year and it’s obvious why. Available in 13 different designs, these gorgeous tents will have you glamping in mouth-watering luxury.

This gorgeous DAB radio is the perfect gadget for family holidays around the UK. It’s carrier case in a blue pastel blue exterior makes it one of the most attractive radios on the market.

It also features a 3.5mm jack – meaning you can plug in your MP3-enabled devices.

Denon AH-D401 Over-Ear Headphones £199.99 Available from Very.co.uk

These quirky statement headphones feature Denon’s unbeatable sound engineering with a 50mm driver and an integrated amplifier for those deep, controlled sounds.

The product also features quirky blue lights and are perfect for travelling - as they can be worn completely wireless.

Pocket Power £12.95 Available from www.proporta.co.uk

This nifty little charger will give you that last boost you need for your emergency phone call or text. It’s super thin and will fit snug into your wallet.

Silken Favours Scarves £135.00 Available at Liberty

These gorgeous scarves feature quirky animal prints and are an essential accessory for any jet setter. Wear around your neck to add a playful twist to your travel outfit or tie to your hand luggage to give it Hermès look.

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Pioneer Square New multi-million pound leisure and retail development

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Pioneer Square is a new multi-million pound leisure and retail development

by Sainsbury’s, Stockdale Land and Cherwell District Council in Bicester town centre which opened on Wednesday 10 July 2013.

The development includes a new Sainsbury’s supermarket (with a wide selection of food and groceries combined with a broad range of clothing, homewares and entertainment sections) and a new 871-seat digital seven-screen Vue cinema, alongside a range of new retail and restaurant users.

The Vue cinema boasts all the latest blockbusters and will have live 2D and 3D music concerts, sporting events, gaming, comedy, opera and ballet. Two of the new cinema screens are 3D compatible to make audiences feel even closer to the action.

The redevelopment also includes a new multi-storey car park with 526 spaces, including both disabled and parent with child space

for town centre visitors. The car park offers up to two hours free shoppers’ parking between 8am and 7pm, with the option to pay for a third hour.

To help drivers find a parking space, the car park includes realtime signage advising visitors of the total number of available spaces on each of the two parking levels. The lower car park level also includes a lighting system above each space to indicate unoccupied parking spaces, green lines indicate unoccupied parking spaces. The car park also includes a direct link into Bicester Shopmobility services.

Outside the development is a new bus interchange for all local bus services stopping in Bicester town centre.

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Big names set to come to Pioneer Square

N

ando’s are set to open in Bicester town centre as part of the new Pioneer Square development. Home of the legendary Portuguese flamegrilled peri-peri chicken, Nando’s will be opening a restaurant fronting the new public square outside the entrance to Vue cinema and Sainsbury’s.

Nigel Sherwood, Regional Director of Nando’s, commented: “We’re extremely excited to be opening a restaurant in Bicester - a town that’s been on Nando’s radar for a while now.”

“It’s a fantastic location which will offer locals, shoppers and visitors a great experience!” Peacocks will bring great value fashion for all ages to the new shopping street next to existing businesses on Evan’s Yard.

Alongside Peacocks and Nando’s, Biagios will have a new and enlarged shop into Pioneer Square which is set to include a new Rolex concession and a fine selection of jewels, watches and wedding rings. Next door, The Collectors Company will

38

It’s a fantastic “location which will offer locals, shoppers and visitors a great experience!

”

provide a feeling of nostalgia offering collectable gifts, toys and models.

A spokesperson for Biagio the jewellers said: “After 25 years in Bicester, Biagio the Jewellers are delighted to be moving to a new, larger store in the exciting new Crown Walk development. A bespoke concept has been developed by Biagio for the store, reflecting a long standing commitment to offer the very latest in fashion and jewellery design.”

Cherwell District Council have already confirmed that Sports Direct,

Prezzo and Dean’s Diner will be coming to Pioneer Square.

Other scheme occupiers include Willow Spring Dry Cleaning, Fostering Solutions, Shopmobility and a pop-in centre.

The new Shopmobility centre will open on Monday 15 July and includes a new access lift and stairwell from the multi-storey car park directly into the Shopmobility centre. Disabled spaces in the new car park are located at the entrance to the new Sainsbury’s store and the Shopmobility centre. Shopmobility services will continue to operate from existing facilities in Crown Walk until the new Shopmobility centre opens on 15 July.

Vince Brimble, Sainsbury’s store manager said: “It’s great to have so many high quality names now looking to come to Bicester and opening up alongside our new store and the Vue cinema. These new names help to create an even more diverse mix of businesses and make the town centre worth a visit.

As soon as you open the door into your new-build home, the possibilities are endless.

T

his is an experience that is truly and uniquely yours. It’s a fresh start; a chance for a happier life. At A Touch of Pine we think that there is something magical and exciting about fresh, new furniture; a new wardrobe waiting to be filled or a new bookcase waiting to be stacked sky-high. We love nothing more than to help our customers make their house a home. Whether you choose a traditional English build or a wonderfully contemporary American design, we have a fantastic range of oak and pine furniture that will turn your new house into the home you imagined it would be. Furnish your house the A Touch of Pine way and let the homeliness come to you.

We know that moving house is a whirlwind mix of emotions and getting settled can seem like more hassle than it’s worth. Let us help you to eliminate your furniture

worries with our high-quality, made to measure furniture that can be delivered straight to your new home.

Imagine relaxing in your living room, with your feet up on your polished oak coffee table, while you look out onto the luxurious village green right outside your front door.

You can watch your children playing, happy, content and safe in the knowledge that life doesn’t get much better than this!

We believe that every house should be a sanctuary for happy family times and fun filled weekends with friends. Heyford Park is perfect for this kind of wonderful family lifestyle, the homes are idyllic and the location is faultless. Towards the edge of the settlement the properties also boast floor to ceiling windows, and offer uninterrupted field views of the stunning Oxfordshire countryside. Team one of our

Rustic Light Oak dining room tables with your field view at sunset, and you will be sure to enjoy magical mealtimes with your family time and time again.

Heyford Park has so much character and heritage, choose A Touch of Pine to make sure that your furniture does too.

Open 7 days a week Freephone: 0808 1683729 Bicester Store: B7 Telford Road, Bicester, Oxfordshire OX26 4LD Banbury Store: Southam Road, Banbury, Oxfordshire OX16 2RX

Crafted in Britain using a solid, traditional construction and assembled by skilled furniture joiners combined with modern CNC technology. All the wood comes from source managed forests primarily from Finland & Sweden. The drawers are dovetailed and all drawer bottoms and carcass backs are solid wood. There is an extensive range of finishes to compliment any home.

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Oxford Airport London Oxford Airport capitalises on its core role for the UK’s Motorsport Valley and Formula 1

J

une 2013 – The F1 Silverstone Grand Prix is one of the highlights of the industry’s calendar, with the bulk of the teams coming home to race on their own home turf. It’s also the busiest weekend of the year for London Oxford Airport, at the very heart of what is a huge high-tech industry for the United Kingdom.

As the nearest airport to the Silverstone race track, Oxford sees an armada of jets converge on the airport each year for the British Grand Prix. Teams, drivers, sponsors and those in the corporate hospitality industry use the airport as their primary hub. Aside from the fixed-wing traffic, there is also a significant flow of helicopters making the eight minute dash back and forth to the track. Several years ago,

the helicopter traffic reached a peak where the airport saw 800 movements in just two hours and 1,300 movements in a single day, what at the time constituted the busiest airspace in Europe.

It’s not just the F1 industry that lies on Oxford’s doorstep, but many of the other motorsports and automotive industry players, with Aston Martin, Jaguar and Land Rover at Gaydon, just up the M40 motorway, BMW Mini in Oxford itself and key hightech companies like Prodrive at Banbury. Oxford Brookes University has its unique auto sport academy too.

Whilst once in a decade or indeed once in a lifetime events bring increased private, business aviation traffic to the region like the recent UEFA cup final at

41

Wembley or the Olympics, the British Grand Prix is regular as clockwork and brings with it a party atmosphere in the frantic Oxfordjet executive VIP terminal.

After the race has finished, there is the inevitable rush back to the airport for the teams and the drivers to go home and often that entails a bit of a bun-fight for slots.

No names, but it has been known for some slick overtaking on the taxiways for first in line for the runway.

It’s not just the key teams that reside within the airport’s catchment area, but the vast majority of all the industry’s suppliers, component manufacturers and support companies. Eight of the eleven F1 teams are on the doorstep, but so are almost 3,500 companies associated with motorsport employing around 40,000 people.

That represents around 80%

of the world’s high performance engineers. The UK Government recognises this fact and continues to supply funding and incentives to encourage businesses to push the boundaries of innovation in an area similar to Silicon Valley in terms of development. This Motorsport Valley continues to grow with an estimated turnover of £6bn, of which £3.6bn is exported. Teams spend up to 30% of their turnover on R&D compared with the norms of 4% in engineering, 6% in automotive and 15% in pharmaceutical industries. The track-record of these UK teams is significant – 17 of the 20 races in F1 last year were won

by British built cars and Britishbased constructors have won 38 constructors championships since F1 began in 1950, well ahead of Italy (16) and France (1).

The bigger F1 teams employ typically 600-700 people, while the smaller teams might have just 150.

Every year, London Oxford Airport

clears its main apron of all the usual resident aircraft, including the Oxford Aviation Academy pilot training fleet, to make way for up to 40 jets and numerous ‘rotorsrunning’ helicopter shuttles, in a carefully coordinated ballet of air traffic. However, throughout the Grand Prix season, the airport remains a key hub for those local teams to get the teams and the drivers around the world in what in one of the most travel-intense and time-critical industries there is.

London Oxford Airport remains the core hub for the motorsport industry which has always relied upon private aviation to achieve the near-impossible travel demands it generates.

For more contact details about Oxford Ariport please call 01865 290600 or alternatively visit www.oxfordairport.co.uk

It’s not just the key teams that reside within the airport’s “catchment area, but the vast majority of all the industry’s suppliers... ” The Local F1 Teams

Marussia Banbury

•BIRMINGHAM Lotus Enstone

Caterham Langley

Mercedes Brackley

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Silverstone

Red Bull

Milton Keynes

•OXFORD Force India Silverstone Williams •LONDON Grove McLaren Woking

We have been providing Management and Agency Advice to Heyford Park since 1994 • Management and Landlord & Tenant • Commercial Agency and Acquisition • Valuations • Building Consultancy • Rating Advice • Land and Development • Public Sector

01865 200 244 www.lsh.co.uk

BUSINESS

400,000 sq ft

of available aCCommodation Business Community

innovat

innovation centre

sec

heyford p Heyford Park is an established business location providing a vibrant and secure working environment which has attracted a broad range of occupiers from both the private and public sectors.

• 24 Hour security • Perimeter fencing • Established business comm • Strategic motorway locatio • Strong management cultur • Competitive rents industrial w • Flexible lease arrangement • Expansion potential

the Park’s extensive range of buildings comprises over 1,300,000 sq ft of commercial accommodation. This accommodation includes warehousing, low cost secure storage, offices, business For more information, units and industrial facilities. please contact: for more information The Park has good transport • 24 Hour security • Innovation Centre The 24 hour manned security links, located approximately • Perimeter fencing • Serviced business / office centr John Greaves jgr provides an ideal location four miles from Junction 10 • Established business community • Residential rental properties av Colin theobald cth formotorway data and vehicle storage, of the M40 at the heart •ofStrategic the location • Loval facilities available removal companies, motorway network, and•only Strong archiving, management culture - Sports 01865 200 centre 244 John Greaves • Competitive rents Playing fields museums and private an hour from London and www.lsh.co.uk jgreaves@lsh.co.uk • Flexiblecollection lease arrangements - Community centre and specialist Birmingham.

01865 200244 • Expansion potential Creche / nursery ‘firework storage’.

Colin Theobald Heyford Park is currently ctheobald@lsh.co.uk Commercial space continues 01865 200244 home to over 100 established for more information contact: companies which employ over to be let, with new businesses 1,000 people. It is a successful attracted throughout 2012/2013 John Greaves jgreaves@lsh.co.uk simon fry s.fry@do asColin Heyford Park firmly hub for manufacturing and theobald ctheobald.lsh.co.uk establishes itself as one of technology based companies. the region’s most thriving 01865 200 244 01869 238 200 Simon Fry www.lsh.co.uk www.heyfordparkcommercial.c Ideal for small companies with business communities. With s.fry@dorchestergrp.com a potential to grow their space interest looking set to continue, 01869 238200 requirements as well as larger the Park appears in a strong Lewis Hedley position to continue to grow on employers looking for more l.hedley@dorchestergrp.com its success of recent years.

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JOHN DOVEY FCCA CHARTERED CERTIFIED ACCOUNTANT The small business specialist for a friendly, fast and personal service

• Limited companies, Partnerships & Sole traders • Accounts prepared • Self Assessment Tax Return completion • Book–keeping services • New business start–ups • Personal & Corporate tax advice • Company secretarial services • VAT and payroll

T: 01869 233 003 M: 07801 658 328 E: jmd@johndovey.co.uk

BUSINESS

Cherwell Innovation Centre Cherwell Innovation Centre provides flexible and professional office and lab facilities to small and medium companies, with a unique offering of supportive packages to encourage growth in any business, which is especially important to vulnerable early-stage companies.

The centre is home to an interesting mix of technology and science-based companies, attracted by the Centre’s rural location, the facilities on offer and the support received. The Centre plays a key role in the innovation ecosystem in North Oxfordshire – with just under 20,000 sq ft of office and laboratory space, with individual spaces ranging from 100 sqft to 600 sqft. The Centre has developed the business facilities and commercial infrastructure to support over 40 companies, each with between 1 and 25 employees. Serviced offices and laboratory space are available to let at short notice and our flexible approach means businesses can take more space within the Innovation Centre as they expand.

The on-site meeting and conference rooms are ideal for client appointments or presentations and there’s a welcoming reception desk where guests are greeted and booked in by professional receptionists.

For companies leaving a home office that cannot yet afford the cost 46

of their own office, ‘The Studio’ is available, which provides a desk in a fully fitted out shared office.

Alternatively, virtual office and hotdesking solutions are available, which offer the perfect preparation for an eventual move to physical space.

The Centre was first introduced on Heyford Park in 1998. It consists of two buildings formerly used by the RAF as accommodation blocks for their servicemen. The first building opened with support from the North Oxfordshire Consortium and Cherwell District Council, then in November 2001 the second building opened as a result of the Centre’s initial success.

In 2003, the DiagnOx Laboratory was launched, designed to support all stages of technology transfer, from proof of principle through to market; helping to turn innovation-based research into new business. It’s unique, fully equipped facility ensures early stage business and concept work can be undertaken cost effectively and to the highest industry standards. Licences, which

It’s unique, fully “equipped facility

ensures early stage business and concept work can be undertaken cost effectively...

”

include bench space, an office desk, internet access and shared lab facilities are available at a competitive price on a flexible, straightforward licence to occupy with one month’s notice.

The design of DiagnOx services were guided by a Steering Committee with representation from across the sector including; British In Vitro

BUSINESS

Diagnostics Association (BIVDA); The Diagnostics Club; Universities and NHS Trusts (IP generators); plus major international diagnostic companies and smaller companies. The DiagnOx Laboratory has now become so successful the facility has extended to accommodate an influx of new companies.

Below are recent experiences from clients using the centre: “DiagnOx has been an excellent place for us to start from. I don’t know of any bio-science incubators which offer the range of facilities and instrumentation that Diagnox offers, because of this we were able to be fully up and running within a month of starting at the facility. It has enabled us to keep capital costs down and focus on what we really need. We have recently expanded and taken more laboratory space still within the

centre, and the dedicated facilities (cell culture and microbiology laboratories) mean that we will need less additional lab space. The centre’s excellent staff provides a range of support functions allowing our staff to stay focused on the science. I’ve looked at many facilities in and around both Oxford and Cambridge and haven’t found one that offers such a complete package for a bio-science start-up. If I were David Cameron looking to help bio-science start-ups and entrepreneurship the DiagnOx model would be one I’d look to replicate.”

“I run a small pharmaceutical company and have been a client of the Cherwell Innovation Centre for some 6 years. Cherwell provides flexible accommodation packages which can be tailored to suit your needs and requirements as and when your

current facilities need to be redressed.

We now occupy our fifth office taking on additional space as the company has expanded. The Innovation Centre staff are a real asset providing excellent support and are viewed by our clients as Zeon employees. The centre is situated close to the M40 and with good local and national rail services the centre is ideally located and easy to get to by clients and staff alike from all over the country, with copious parking and only five miles from major shopping in Bicester and Bicester Village. The total flexibility of the Centre for any new embryonic company is an excellent resource.”

For more information please contact the Innovation Centre on: 01869 238000 or visit the website: www.cherwell-ic.co.uk

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BUSINESS

Making Bicester’s Vision Your Reality Welcome to Bicester – the fastest evolving town in the UK.

I

n recent decades, Bicester has experienced substantial housing and business growth. This is due to its: QQ Prime location

QQ Accessibility QQ Available employment land QQ Skilled and flexible workforce QQ Welcoming business community And thanks to the presence of international businesses, a global shopping destination and strong links with university and research centres, it is confidently predicted that Bicester’s growth will continue.

In 2007, Bicester Vision was created to be a catalyst of information and support for existing and new enterprises in Bicester and the surrounding area.

An independent public/private

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partnership, Bicester Vision is responsible for bringing together individuals, businesses, communities and local authorities, to ensure that the town continues to be a great place in which to live, work and play.

Exciting times for everyone This ability to pull together and successfully engage, on a variety of innovative and dynamic initiatives and events, with a variety of organisations (Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEP), Oxfordshire Business First, Oxford Entrepreneurs, Young Enterprise, Youth Council, OYAP and EcoBicester), enables Bicester to realise important opportunities for a stronger economy and better facilities for the town and its surrounding area.

Bicester Vision’s three main

priorities are to: QQ Work with the Government QQ Promote Bicester as the place to do business QQ Provide business support to existing and new enterprises Recently, we have been consulted on the Local Development Plan and are having positive and productive conversations with local Government to help shape Bicester’s future growth. And our local business support platform goes from strength to strength, as we continue to offer strategic business planning advice and guidance. We have also developed a sales pitch for Bicester, which will be supported by an amazing and futuristic, short animated film, (and accompanying marketing collateral) focusing on the towns aspirations.

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Bicester is a vibrant town, which “is currently going through big and

exciting changes. With a reputation as a fast-paced and expanding location for businesses, residents and stakeholders, we are passionate about creating a place where everyone can feel a sense of belonging and community in a great and sustainable living environment.

Placi O’Neill-Espejo, Bicester Vision Partnership Manager

”

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See the results with your own eyes You would need to have been walking around with your eyes shut, not to see the improvements that have already taken place. Phase 1 of the town centre redevelopment, due to be finished in summer 2013, brings exciting new additions including: QQ A seven screen digital cinema QQ A Sainsbury’s supermarket QQ A range of shops and restaurants QQ Improved transport facilities, including new car parks, bus interchange and laybys QQ Highway improvements to ease congestion QQ A new Shopmobility service And in phase 2, you can experience a new civic building, complete with a new library, further restaurants and a one-stop council service centre.

planning application. This will open up substantial areas of land for further development and job creation. And we understand that the Government has committed vital cash to improve Junction 10.

You can also expect to see a number of improvements to our railways and stations too. From 2015, Chiltern Railways will provide a half-hourly rail service from Oxford to London Marylebone via Bicester.

And the Government is also backing the East West Rail Project, which will connect Reading to Milton Keynes via Oxford and Bicester. Due to be completed by 2017, Bicester will have four trains an hour to Oxford and will be one of the only places outside of London to be on the North/South – East/West rail axis.

Be part of the master plan We have overseen the completion of the Bicester Masterplan. It details the town’s assets, potential areas and projects for future, necessary infrastructure and other economic factors required ensuring that Bicester can grow and prosper over the next 20 years. We look forward to sharing it with you soon.

Investing in your future Your flagship town Now that we have the green light for the UK’s first national eco town scheme, Bicester will be at the centre of ground-breaking developments, which will integrate cutting-edge eco technology, economic opportunities and community engagement to provide the flagship homes of tomorrow.

Easy to get to and get around Thanks to sterling work with our two Local Enterprise Partnerships, we have secured the funds necessary to remodel Junction 9 of the M40 and submitted the first

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Things at the Bicester Vision Partnerships don’t stand still. We still have lots of things to achieve, but with the help and support of everyone, we know we’re on track to make Bicester a better place to live, work and play. So please visit our website regularly to see first-hand what’s happening and find out how you can get involved.

For more information contact Placi O’Neill-Espejo, Bicester Vision Partnership Manager: T: 01869 324244 E: placi@bicestervision.co.uk www.biwcestervision.co.uk

BUSINESS

Homeworking

Natalie Roach works as an employment solicitor consultant for De Marco Solicitors. She is an employment law specialist and has been practicing in employment law exclusively for over 15 years.

People have been homeworking for many years but what is new are the sorts of ways people are looking to do it and the issues that homeworking raises for employers regarding IT, harassment, accountability and possible duties of care, including personal injury and health and safety.

Last year in a report backed by Eric Pickles, the Local Government Secretary, he suggests that the Treasury could save £15 billion per year in office rent by increasing the number of publicsector workers on “flexi-time” or working from home. Working from home is very much the holy grail of most but is it all good?

It of course saves travel time, lowers the carbon footprint, can stop wasted time chatting in the office and does lower the organisations overheads in terms of office space!

It can increase productivity via reduced interruptions and fosters a better work life balance for most 52

doing it. However, it assumes the individual is self-motivated and can work as productively alone and can separate work life from home life. As the person working from home, this can be a real challenge and so it is not for everyone!

The lack of colleague “contact can lead to feelings of isolation for those working at home. The office chatter creates a team spirit a collegiate atmosphere...

”

The lack of colleague contact can lead to feelings of isolation for those working at home. The office chatter creates a team spirit, a collegiate atmosphere and is often a great

knowledge-sharing tool. Without that knowledge sharing and interaction are your employees keeping as up to date on relevant issues as they should or is this opening employers up to possible negligence claims?

Could those feelings of isolation lead to claims for stress or other mental health issues for which the employer may be responsible if they knew and did nothing? Homeworking is seen as a modern day panacea for work stress but in its wake is it not just creating a different set of stresses. Is the employee fostering a good work life balance or are they never switching off from work? How many times have we seen people in restaurants etc constantly on their blackberry or smart phone?

The feelings of isolation a homeworker can feel are a genuine issue which is why many serviced offices are opening up large office spaces to a hot desk system where home workers can go into an office space closer to their home and

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re-create that team atmosphere. It sounds like an ideal solution but what about confidentiality? Also, how do you deal with productivity issues remotely if you can’t see what it is the employee is doing with their time? How does supervision work and knowledge sharing? Employers owe their employees a duty of care both in terms of their health and wellbeing and also health and safety.

However if an employee is not working in their premises, how do they monitor that?

Some roles lend themselves much better to home working than others, yet it is often something sought by all. Care must be taken in requests for homeworking so as not to fall foul of the Equality Act 2010 if for example your homeworkers are predominantly female and a male makes a request but is denied it.

There must be clear and objective justifications as with all protected characteristics avoid claims.

There are also practical issues

such as headed paper, postage and faxes perhaps. Emails may need to be reviewed remotely too.

Risk assessments need to be done regularly at the homeworkers place of work and so there needs to be a clause in the contract allowing

That’s not to say “homeworking isn’t

a good thing it just requires some thought and provisions in place to manage it properly to protect the organisation...

”

If the employee is in a serviced office and is being bullied, how will that impact? At present we still have the third party harassment provisions in the Equality Act 2010 making it the employer’s liability for such acts of third parties. The Government are looking to remove this but will they and when and what happens in the meantime if an employee is being subjected to such treatment?

Even if it is removed, the Protection from Harassment Act 1997 and the possibility of the employee bringing various claims such as constructive dismissal and negligence will remain. Remote working can cause issues by its very nature feelings of seclusion!

Also, as homeworking is predominantly IT based, do you have clear and comprehensive IT policies covering email, Internet access etc?

Do you have a central IT system and what happens if the employee leaves – will the information you need be on their home computer and have you reserved the right to get copies.

Have you made sure you can insist they destroy all work items from their systems? Will anyone else such as other family members, friends or others sharing an office have access to the computer or see paperwork creating a confidentiality breach or data protection issue? There are lots of practical issues as you can see.

That’s not to say homeworking isn’t a good thing it just requires some thought and provisions in place to manage it properly to both protect the organisation but also the employee from feelings of lone working, organisational isolation and breach of duties of care. With homeworking rising and being set to further increase the obligations on employers will no doubt also rise!

If you need employment advice on this or any other employment issues please contact Natalie Roach on: T: 01869 906004 E: natalie@demarcosolicitors.com

you access – otherwise, what if the employee refuses! Also, how will the employer access workers within serviced offices if permission is refused?

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Green Bedding The Green Bedding Company was founded in 2011 and relocated to Heyford Park last year. A small family run business, it was created to utilise an otherwise wasted resource.

Having spent years in construction, particularly the retail sector an awareness of the quantity of needlessly wasted wood, card and paper emerged. As great enthusiasts of the English Countryside and supporters of reusing and recycling wherever possible an idea was formulated and The Green Bedding Company was created.

In the current climate every resource available should be maximised in terms of its energy efficiency.

At The Green Bedding Company we break down, clean, shred and compress a whole host of otherwise disregarded materials and make them into efficient, biodegradable, economical and totally sustainable animal bedding and fuels.

As a relatively young company, finding the correct location was of great importance. Likewise, initial costs were a big consideration which had to be carefully planned and budgeted. Heyford Park gave The Green Bedding Company just the opportunity we needed to expand. Our requirements were cost effective space and security with the opportunity to grow. Our plant involves some large machines so the freedom to use these without restriction was also imperative. Quiet, clean office space was also a necessity and Heyford Park was able to provide on both counts.

The building we obtained required some renovations to make it suitable for our requirements however, together we with our design partners, Urban & Country Studios, we were able to redesign and fully customise the space with full support from the park management. We are now fully operational with the warehousing space for the production and light and airy spacious offices for the team.

We are very pleased with the adapted space. The business is growing quickly and we have the capacity to accommodate this growth within the same locality, expanding into a second unit early 2013. The park has a great community feel and gives us peace of mind that our business is in good hands 54

For more Information about the Green Bedding Company: T: 01869 233588 E: info@thegreenbeddingcompany.co.uk www.thegreenbeddingcompany.co.uk

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In the current climate we believe that every resource “available should be maximised in terms of its energy efficiency. ”

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