House & Lifestyle | 265

Welcome

As the days grow longer and the sunshine brighter, we’re thrilled to bring you the late ed ion, pa ed w h tips to make your home shine and your summer sizzle!

We have gathered the experts this month to share their advice on styling our homes. TV property expert Kunle Barker tells us how we can transform our interiors without breaking the bank. Find out how to navigate those colour charts as we learn the secret to choosing the perfect home colour scheme. Plus, with the trend for multi-generational living on the rise, discover five ways to adapt your space and marry function with flair. From embracing colour to the importance of sustainability, find out which garden trends are likely to catch on following the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. Food writer Georgina Hayden shares her passion for Greekinspired dishes and gives us a sneak peek of a few recipes from her new cookbook, Greekish: Everyday Recipes With Greek Roots! For the conscientious traveller, we learn how to choose an ethical wildlife holiday, with the important do’s and don’ts that we should all pay attention to!

ABOUT US

House & Lifestyle is a monthly magazine with approximately 150,000 readers and available in hundreds of outlets throughout Dorset and Hampshire. Pick up a free copy each month from supermarkets, newsagents, estate agents, theatres, garden centres, shopping centres, health clubs, hotels, train stations, bus stations, bars, clubs, restaurants, garages, doctors surgeries, dentists, cafes, pubs and many other retail outlets. House & Lifestyle magazine is published by GWP Marketing Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden except with the express permission of the publisher. The views expressed in House & Lifestyle are those of the contributors and are not necessarily shared by the magazine or its staff. GWP Marketing Ltd accepts no responsibility for content and / or advertising copy supplied by third parties.

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ON THE COVER

Insignia Shade and Shutter Company, o ering inspiration to installation. Turn to page 18 to find out more!

CONTRIBUTORS

GARY PEARCE PUBLISHER

gary@house-mag.co.uk

01202 287165 ext #1

ROSS STALLION SALES DIRECTOR

ross@house-mag.co.uk 01202 287165 ext #1

VICKY ANSCOMBE EDITOR

vi @house-mag.co.uk

01202 287165 ext #2

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Navigating success: The story behind Danehurst Estate Agents

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TRETHOWANS SUPPORTS LOCAL CHARITY AND A NOT-FOR-PROFIT ORGANISATION WITH PRO BONO PROPERTY WORK

Trethowans, a leading law firm in Bournemouth with offices across the south, has once again shown its commitment to the local community by supporting Bournemouth Foodbank and BEAF Arts Co, two Bournemouth-based not for profit organisations.

Trethowans have continued their support and relationship with Bournemouth Foodbank by preparing a licence to allow BEAF Arts Co to occupy space and construct 18 artist studios within the Theatre Hall at St George’s Hall, Haviland Road, Boscombe. As part of this support, Trethowans were able to forge a new relationship with not for profit organisation BEAF Arts Co, and assisted the organisation with the preparation and review of a sublicence at the property on Haviland Road which will allow them to let out the artist studios to local artists.

Carol Maund, Director at BEAF Arts, said “BEAF are thrilled to be able to open artist studios in Boscombe after receiving a grant from Arts Council England. We hope to create a vibrant and diverse space to support artists and to continue to develop our relationship with Bournemouth Foodbank.”

TRETHOWANS www.trethowans.com

Bournemouth Foodbank continues to carry out fantastic work by feeding thousands of people every year. They work with many professional agencies to provide people with support, 3-day emergency food, training and upskilling, as well as debt and budgeting advice.

Martin Hancock, CEO at Bournemouth Foodbank commented “We’re are so pleased to partner with BEAF Arts on the Haviland Studios project, a new venture that not only meets community needs but also enriches Boscombe’s cultural landscape. We are extremely thankful to Trethowans for supporting us pro-bono getting a new partnership agreement in place allowing for this project to happen. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this project will have in the community.”

Harry Dancer, the solicitor at Trethowans who acted, said: “I was delighted to be able to assist both Bournemouth Foodbank and BEAF as they continue their outstanding work in supporting the local community. It is great to be a part of a firm which is proactive in their own commitment but also in allowing staff to support the local community.”

A LAD IN THE SPOTLIGHT AS PANTO STAR IS NOMINATED

Lighthouse is delighted to congratulate actor Benjamin Armstrong on his nomination as Best Newcomer in the national Pantomime Awards, having taken on the title role of last year’s in-house production of Aladdin.

The Pantomime Association sent dozens of judges to more than 200 pantos last Christmas, so it’s a real honour for Ben to be nominated in the ‘Panto Oscars’ with the winners due to be named in a red carpet event on Tuesday 18 June.

“It is a real achievement to have a nomination for the annual Panto Awards and Ben is a deserving nominee,” says Lighthouse Chief Executive Elspeth McBain. “This was his first role in a pantomime, and we are delighted to have given him that opportunity to shine. His beautiful rendition of Take That’s Rule the World was a real highlight of our show.

Chris Jarvis is returning to Lighthouse in December to write, direct and star in Sleeping Beauty. Tickets on sale now.

LIGHTHOUSE, POOLE www.lighthousepoole.co.uk

LEWIS BARR JOINS LEWIS-MANNING HOSPICE CARE AS A TRUSTEE

Lewis, who is Frettens Solicitors’ Marketing & Commercial Director, is also a member of the Income Generation and Marketing Sub Committee (IGM) to the Board of Trustees at the hospice, advising on the charity’s income generation and marketing strategy.

Hospice CEO Clare Gallie said, “We offer a huge warm welcome to Lewis. He will be an invaluable member of our Board, bringing a wealth and depth of experience and knowledge to the role.“

Lewis said, “I am hugely excited to be joining the hospice in this role and to be supporting them using my marketing skills, experience and insight.

“The hospice does brilliant work supporting patients and their families with life limiting illnesses across East Dorset, Purbeck and West Hampshire and it’s brilliant to now be a part of their team.”

LEWIS-MANNING HOSPICE CARE www.lewis-manning.org.uk

Whether you’re looking for monsters of rock and pop, creepy crawlies, clowns, puppets or dinosaur roars, Poole Harbour Festival takes ‘something for everyone’ to the next level.

With its stunning shoreline location, warm welcome and inclusive atmosphere, it’s no wonder it has become the party of the year for its small army of family regulars who travel from near and far to enjoy the weekend.

A busy schedule of free children’s entertainment is kept up all weekend with the irrepressible Jules the Entertainer getting the show on the road on Friday.

Saturday and Sunday will be absolutely roarsome as Poole Harbour Festival welcomes back the Amazing Dinosaur Shows for daily high noon appointments with ferocious T Rexes Bruno and Baxter, Zuki the Stegosaurus, Spike the Spinosaurus and all their prehistoric party starters.

What’s more, the popular free circus shows are back this year as well.

Keeping the laughter flowing on Saturday there’s the brilliant Jamie Jigsaw with mix of high energy games, balloon modelling and hilarious stunt, as well as the incredible Mad4Animals meet and greet (or should that be meat and creep?) shows.

www.pooleharbourfestival.com

Sunday sees the return of Jamie Jambo, the double Primary Times Reader Star Award winner who manages to incorporate magic, comedy, juggling, unicycling and puppetry into his show. Also on the bill is the phenomenal Krazy Kev, whose comedy magic never fails to win over the crowds.

Poole Harbour Festival is headlined by Razorlight, The Coral and Reef with sets from The South, Toploader and Artful Dodger. The dance tent stars Lisa Lashes, Ultrabeat, Jaguar Skills and Seb Fontaine; while the popular tributes bill include shows dedicated to Queen, Madness, Ed Sheeran, Amy Winehouse and. For the first time, Fleetwood Mac.

With no less than 50 acts across four stages, the festival also showcases the cream of music talent from the BCP region with Mother Ukers, Sixteen String Jack, Blackwater County and singer songwriter Gaz Brookfield sure to provide plenty of highlights.

Poole Harbour Festival opens at 5pm on Friday, noon on Saturday and 11am on Sunday, closing at 11pm on Friday and Saturday and 7pm on Sunday.

Tickets available now at www.pooleharbourfestival.com.

ADVENTURE

ATTRACTIONS CELEBRATES 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF ROCKREEF AND THE PIERZIP!

Bournemouth Pier, which is operated by Adventure Attractions, is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its attractions, RockReef adventure attraction and the PierZip.

Adventure Attractions MD Sarah Hunter said, “The past ten years have flown by for the business! It was May 2014 when we opened the doors to RockReef, our indoor all weather adventure attraction which boasts 28 climbing challenges, an aerial obstacle course, Pier Cave, Vertical Slide, Leap of Faith jumping challenge and a café on the top floor.

“Just a few months later in September 2014 we launched the world’s first pier to shore zip wire and the PierZip was born. The dual zip line means you can ride with family & friends and challenge them to race to the shore. Launching from the Zip Tower platform 25mtrs above the sea, thrill-seekers race out and “zip surf” 250 meters over the top of the waves to land on the beach.

“The Victorian pleasure pier is the most iconic symbol of the British seaside holiday and pier’s play a vital role in terms of resort

identity, heritage, employment, community pride and tourism. Bournemouth Pier, operated by Adventure Attractions employ over 150 staff during peak season and RockReef & PierZip now welcome over 100,000 visitors per year.

“We are extremely proud of how RockReef and the PierZip and the investment made in them by Adventure Attractions has helped to reinvent Bournemouth Pier, at a time when many piers have fallen into disrepair or not had the investment made in them to make them attractions relevant to the 21st century. Over the last 10 years, turnover from Bournemouth Pier has increased by over 3 million, this has resulted in year-onyear increased revenue paid to BCP council.

“Both attractions have won many awards, including the Dorset Tourism Awards, Destination Awards and Bournemouth Business Awards, a fantastic achievement for all the team.”

“We will be marking the 10th anniversary with a celebratory event and competitions to win tickets, keep an eye out on our website and social media for further details.”

LIGHTHOUSE CONFIRMS ITS RENEWED PARTNERSHIP WITH OCEAN AUTOMOTIVE

Lighthouse Poole is delighted its renewed partnership with Ocean Automotive will continue to help support the arts at the heart of our community.

“We’re really excited to be working with such a well-known and highly regarded Poole business,” says Lucy Funnell, Corporate Development Executive at Lighthouse.

“This continued partnership will enable Lighthouse to deliver even more opportunities for people in the local community and wider region to experience world class arts and culture on their doorstep.

“As a creative charity that plays an integral part in the delivery of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole’s arts strategy, support from corporate partners is invaluable.”

Ocean Automotive operates in Dorset and Somerset, representing the Audi and Volvo brands through Poole Audi, Yeovil Audi and Volvo Cars Poole, along with two accident repair businesses, Poole Accident Repair and Yeovil Accident Repair.

Dave Tindall, Head of Marketing, says: “As a locally owned business, it’s a pleasure to support Lighthouse. Our shared values of sustainability and supporting the local community make this a perfect partnership and I look forward to continuing our work together between Volvo Cars Poole, Poole Audi and Lighthouse.”

STEWARTS GARDEN CENTRE IN CHRISTCHURCH TO HOST GRILL FEST ON 29 TH - 30 TH JUNE!

Stewarts Garden Centre in Christchurch is getting set to host its inaugural ‘Grill Fest’, an opportunity to level up your outdoor cooking skills with guidance from the BBQ and pizza oven professionals, whilst enjoying some delectable samples from the outdoor cooking brands and many local food and drink companies!

The festival will take place on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th June, 11–4pm, in the garden centre’s back yard event space, and promises to be a fun-packed day of gamechanging cooking methods, live music from local bands and musicians, plenty of free samples of sizzling grilled food, delicious drinks, mouth-watering pizzas and feasts cooked on firebowls!

There will be hay bales to lounge on and an atmospheric stretch tent to house the band and bar. The bar will boast a plethora of local drink brands to sample and purchase, including delicious cocktails made by Southbourne based CONKER Distillery, local brews from Hampshire based Pig Beer and Powder Monkey Brewing Co and Purbeck Cider.

Marketing Manager Amy Stewart advised, “We are really excited to be launching our Grill Fest and are urging everyone to come along with friends and family to enjoy a superb afternoon out, live music and

STEWARTS GARDEN CENTRE www.stewarts.co.uk/GrillFest

the many mouth-watering options that will be on offer.

“There will be live cooking demonstrations and a chance to ‘try before you buy’ on some of the current, hottest outdoors brands such as Christchurch based Gozney pizza ovens, and Ooni, Kadai, Weber, Traeger, YETI and more!

“There will be exclusive offers on the day including a free drink if you buy a YETI cup or bottle. There’s also £20 back for a £100 spend and £40 back with a £200 spend on outdoor cooking products and YETI*.

“We will be running a raffle in aid of our charity of the year, Lewis-Manning Hospice Care, with some fabulous opportunities to win YETI gear, like their famous coolboxes, drinkwear and caps as well as Lafuma chairs and more.”

Tickets are available online at www. stewarts.co.uk/GrillFest and are priced at £20 for an Adult Ticket and £5 Kids Tickets (under 18s) Tickets are Half Price until 22nd June. Ticket sales are limited.

*Ts&Cs apply, see website for details.

TOM JOINS SAFFERY AS AUDIT MANAGER

Tom Davies has joined Saffery as Audit Manager. He joins from one of the ‘big four’ firms where he had worked since joining their school leaver programme 7 ½ years ago.

Tom advised, “My experience is working with some large household named clients and I’m looking forward to bringing my skills and expertise to Saffery and working alongside the partners to help the growth of the office. It’s a great team to work with!”

Saffery Partner Jamie Lane advised, “Tom is a great addition to our Audit team in Bournemouth where he can continue to gain exposure to interesting and complex clients in a supportive and engaging environment. We are proud that our employee value proposition continues to attract great talent in a competitive marketplace.  Our audit team has nearly tripled in size over the last five years, and with Tom joining we can continue to grow and provide the level of client service expected of our firm.”

SAFFERY www.saffery.com

New seafront development with uninterrupted sea views

This stunning brand new front line seafront development of just 14 character built apartments, all of which enjoy uninterrupted sea views is situated on the West Cliff, just minutes walk from Bournemouth town centre.

The apartments have been finished to an incredibly high standard with designer kitchens, luxury bathrooms and en-suites, balconies enjoying stunning panoramic sea views from all floors and underground parking with electric charging points. Built by award-winning local developers, AJC Group who are renowned for their build quality, the development has just been completed and is ready for immediate occupation.

Viewing strictly by appointment through Winkworth Westbourne.

PRICES FROM £495,000

ALDER ROAD, BRANKSOME | £600,000

NEW INSTRUCTION, A beautifully presented and tastefully styled 1930’s detached home approaching 2400 square feet of well planned accommodation, over 3 oors. The ground oor has 3 generous reception rooms and extensively tted kitchen with tted appliances and aground oor guest suite with luxury en suite. On the rst oor are 4 further double bedrooms, with the master bedroom having an en suite shower room and on the top oor a loft room. Outside there is a decking area with a large lawned garden beyond and o parking for 4 cars and parking for a boat/caravan. SOLE AGENTS

BRANKSOME PARK | £815,000

New Instruction. A spacious three bedroom, 2 reception rooms second oor apartment approaching 1900 sq ft set in this gated development of 14 apartments in two blocks. This bright at is well presented o ering a double reception room with double glazed door to balcony and 2 further side windows, fully tted kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, an en suite bathroom with separate shower, further bathroom and additional cloakroom, along with a wonderful southerly balcony with lawned views and a double garage. Sold with no forward chain. SOLE AGENTS

CHURCH STREET, OLD TOWN POOLE | £625,000

NEW INSTRUCTION, A mid C18 Grade II listed end townhouse o ering 4 bedroom accommodation in this sought after location just 200m from The Quay. The ground oor had two reception rooms, a re tted kitchen/breakfast room and a conservatory style garden room. The bedrooms are over the rst and second oors with a shower/bathroom on each oor. Further bene ts from a large basement, a lovely courtyard garden and a garage is located in a block (56 year lease) approximately 100m walk away. SOLE AGENT

Enhance your outdoor space for summer

Discover the benefits of awnings with Insignia Shade & Shutter Company

As summer approaches and the days grow longer, many of us turn our attention to enhancing our outdoor spaces. One way to transform your garden into a perfect summer retreat is by installing awnings and pergolas. Insignia Shade & Shutter Company specialises in these outdoor enhancements, offering a range of products designed to maximise comfort, style, and functionality in your garden.

Transform your garden with awnings Awnings are an excellent addition to any outdoor space, providing much-needed shade and protection from the sun’s harsh rays. Insignia offers a variety of awnings that not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your garden but also create a comfortable outdoor living area where you can relax, dine, and entertain guests.

One of the primary benefits of installing an awning is the ability to enjoy your garden regardless of the weather. During the hot summer months, an awning provides a cool, shaded area, protecting you from UV

rays and reducing the risk of sunburn. This makes it an ideal spot for outdoor dining, reading, or simply unwinding. Additionally, modern awnings from Insignia are designed with durability in mind, ensuring they can withstand varying weather conditions while maintaining their stylish appearance.

Enhance your business’s appeal with Insignia’s commercial solutions

In addition to enhancing residential gardens, Insignia extends its expertise to the commercial sector, providing bespoke solutions for businesses looking to elevate their outdoor and indoor spaces. Their commercial awnings and sign writing services are particularly popular among restaurants, pubs, and shops, offering both functional shade and a stylish way to attract customers.

Commercial awnings from Insignia are designed to be both durable and visually appealing, creating an inviting atmosphere for patrons. These awnings can be customised with sign writing, ensuring your business’s name and branding are prominently displayed, enhancing visibility and curb appeal. This service is ideal for eateries and retail spaces aiming to stand out in busy commercial areas.

Furthermore, Insignia specialises in commercial office blinds, providing practical and stylish solutions for managing light and privacy in work environments. These blinds are not only functional but also add a professional touch to any office setting.

Insignia’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction extends to their commercial clients, ensuring each project is tailored to meet specific needs and delivered with precision. Whether you’re a restaurant seeking to create a welcoming outdoor dining area, a shop looking to boost its street presence, or an office in need of effective blinds, Insignia Shade and Shutter offers the expertise and products to transform your space.

Why choose Insignia Shade & Shutter Company?

Choosing Insignia for your awnings, pergolas, blinds, and shutters comes with several advantages. First, their extensive product range ensures you can find exactly what you need to enhance your home. Second, their dedication to quality means you can

trust that their products are durable, stylish, and functional. Finally, their exceptional customer service ensures a smooth and satisfying experience from start to finish.

In conclusion, if you are looking to transform your garden into a summer oasis, Insignia Shade & Shutter company offers the perfect solutions. Their high-quality awnings and pergolas provide shade, style, and comfort, making your outdoor space more enjoyable. With their comprehensive services and wide coverage area, Insignia is the go-to choice for homeowners seeking to enhance their living spaces both inside and out.

For expert guidance and a stunning selection of awnings and pergolas, call Insignia Shade and Shutter or stop by their showroom today.

CONTACT

01202 741671

ADDRESS

Insignia, 1-7 Ashley Road, Poole, Dorset BH14 9BS

WEBSITE

www.insigniashadeandshutter.co.uk

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Whether you’re looking for contemporary or traditional, electric or gas, we have a variety of fires on live display in our multi-room showroom. Visit our showroom in Christchurch where our knowledgeable staff will be glad to assist in helping you choose the perfect fire for any room.

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JETSKI

TV property expert Kunle Barker on how to transform your home cheaply and easily

TV property expert Kunle Barker on how to transform your home cheaply and easily

Most people would love to splash enough cash to transform their house into the home of their dreams. But the cost-of-living crisis means such transformations have to remain in dreamland for many of us.

But there’s no harm in dreaming – and property expert Kunle Barker points out that some of those dreams can become a reality at a far cheaper price than you might think.

Barker, who’s presented at Grand Designs Live, which ran at ExCeL London on May 4-12, has recently renovated his own house at a fraction of the expected cost.

“I did a session on what we call romantic renovations, which is all about falling back in love with your house,” says Barker. “And I did one on my house, which was going to cost £100,000, and in the end we spent £15k, which is still a sizeable amount of money. But in the session, I explained how you can just take whatever budget you have, however small, and make changes to your home and really make a difference.”

Here are Barker’s easy tips to improve your home without spending a fortune…

Kunle Barker | Handout/PA

LEFT

Paint pops of colour

Barker’s first tip is to think about painting colour in rooms. “A really good lick of paint makes a huge difference to a home, especially if you experiment with colour,” he says. “And the beauty of that is it’s something you can do yourself – you can go and buy some paint and spend the weekend creating a feature wall or repainting a room with different colour and it will completely change that room around.”

He says that while the trend for many years was ‘Scandi sheep’ white walls, “while we’re not going back to really strong block colours in rooms, what people are using is accents of colours, on either feature walls or some walls, and those things make such a difference to your home.”

He suggests householders who aren’t sure what colours will suit their rooms should look on the internet, Pinterest etc and see how people are mixing colours, or look at the ‘colour wheel’ on the internet which outlines which colours clash and which are complementary.

“Just see how people are blending or mixing colours in slightly different ways,” he advises. “I always say looking in your wardrobe is a good place to start because the colours of your clothes are the colours you like.

“I think we’re settling on a happy medium where the Scandi sheep thing is fine, but people are using a few pops of interesting colour too.”

Splash out on indoor plants and flowers

Another simple way to make rooms look better is by planting indoor flowers and plants, suggests Barker. “They make a huge difference to your home, don’t cost a fortune, and it’s something people can do themselves.”

Use the three-box decluttering technique

Decluttering will improve any space, says Barker, who suggests people try the simple method he uses to get rid of unnecessary clutter.

“Think about the things you don’t want in your home,” he says. “I always have this little trick where I have three boxes, and in one box I put stuff that I can’t do without and that we’re going to have to keep, the middle box is the box I’m not sure about, and the other box I put in stuff I know I can get rid of. That goes to a charity shop or recycling, the stuff I’m not sure about goes in a cupboard under the stairs, and then I’m just left with the stuff that I know I love.

Alamy/PA

Alamy/PA

“And the rule is, if within the next three or six months you don’t go back to the other box and pull that stuff out, then that also goes to charity.

“Something like that makes such a difference to a home, and it doesn’t cost money. And these are things that people can do in their weekends, they’re fun things to do, and you’ll be surprised how much of a difference it makes.”

Small changes can make a big difference in the bathroom

If your bathroom needs updating, you don’t have to shell out thousands of pounds for a whole new one, says Barker – just change some of the fixtures and fittings to revamp your room cheaply and easily.

“If you have a little bit of money, rather than doing a whole bathroom think about investing in new fixtures and fittings,” he advises. “So things like taps and mixer valves – these things can make a real difference to your bathroom.

“Or you can upgrade your existing toilet, which might be an old-fashioned-looking cistern, for a hidden cistern wall-hung unit. Just that one thing could help change the look of the bathroom.”

He says such alterations might cost a few hundred pounds, plus the same again for fitting, but he points out: “For less than £1,000 you can have a real new look in that bathroom.”

Make your kitchen look brand new at a fraction of the cost

Similarly with the kitchen, minor alterations can change the aesthetic and mean you don’t need to buy a whole new kitchen, explains Barker. “People think ‘I have to change the whole kitchen’ – but just think about the taps and stuff,” he advises. He recently renovated his own kitchen by painting the unit doors and spending around £3,500 on new worktops, which he says he probably could have paid about £1,000 less for.

LEFT, ABOVE & RIGHT

Photos courtesy of Alamy/PA

“I just changed the worktop and the kitchen is completely different,” he says. “I was getting quotes for £30,000 to change that kitchen but I spent £3,500 on the worktop, £200 on the taps, and I probably spent £100 on paint because I painted the doors myself. It feels brand new.”

He also suggests painting existing tiles rather than retiling, or even opting for granite worktops at a fraction of the price by having a thin granite worktop placed over your existing worktop. “It will completely change your kitchen – everybody will think you’ve got a new kitchen when you haven’t,” says Barker. “It’s a lot cheaper than getting a brand new granite worktop, and it’s a lot, lot cheaper than completely changing your kitchen, which costs a fortune these days.”

What about the living room?

Barker suggests investing in a few nice pieces of furniture or lighting. “That makes a real difference,” he says. “and you don’t have to spend a fortune.”

In addition, rather than splashing out on a new sofa, get your old one reupholstered. “I did that recently to my

sofa,” Barker says. “Rather than spending thousands, it cost about £250, which isn’t much, and it gave a look of a brand new sofa.”

He says low-level lighting like floor and wall lamps and/or uplighters can be inexpensive but can change the whole feel of a room. “Lighting is something that’s very overlooked, particularly in living rooms,” he says, pointing out that one big central light doesn’t give any flexibility to change the look and feel of the room. “However, if you have downlighters and lamps then you can change the way that room feels – they make rooms feel much more comfortable.”

Think comfort for the bedroom

Decluttering and installing the right lighting is key for bedrooms, says Barker, who explains: “The bedroom is slightly different – really focus on what makes you comfortable and rest well in your bed. Get nice soft furnishings and quilt covers and new pieces of artwork and shelving – all of them make a huge difference, and they’re all relatively inexpensive.”

Words by Lisa Salmon, PA

Stuckton, Fordingbridge

A handsome early 20th Century country home with amazing uninterrupted views of the Avon Valley west towards Cranborne Chase.

The Merrie Thought was originally built around 1900 for Miss Christine Hulse of Breamore on land belonging to the Breamore family estate in an Arts and Crafts style. Since then, it has undergone several refurbishments and significant modernisation, yet retains all the elegant properties and features of a period home of its era, including a number of working fireplaces, beautiful tall ceilings, a cellar and attic rooms.

The current owners have lived there for almost 20 years, and it has been a much-loved family house, suitable for multi-generational living.

office to arrange a viewing

Please contact the Ringwood office to arrange a viewing.

£4,300,000 6 4 4

Why the dual island nation of St Kitts and Nevis is a jewel in the Caribbean

The tiny islands proudly offer visitors a rich history and vibrant culture, alongside sun and spectacular beaches, says Josie Clarke.

The clanging old army truck judders up the narrow dirt track as we all cling on for dear life. Banana tree branches with leaves the size of umbrellas swish past, and the azure-edged sands of St Kitts fall away below.

Our guide, Kerryn “Tiem” Williams, pops up from a hole in the roof of the cab and shouts: “Sorry to drag you away from the beach, but I think you’re gonna like it!”

A huge grin appears across his face.

It is 10am, and the already-30-degree heat of the morning is dissipating to a gentler, pleasantly warm humidity as we climb the 10-mile stretch of road to the foothills of Mount Liamuiga. Surrounded by thick jungle, mobile phone coverage fades to nothing. Our driver reaches his hard-won stop at Liamuiga Natural Farm and cuts the engine. Other than birdsong, the silence is spectacular.

The tiny twin-island Federation of St Kitts and Nevis, with its fascinating but brutal history of warring between French and British colonists, became the smallest independent nation in the Western Hemisphere in 1983. Now, it is confidently charting its own distinct course away from the fly-and-flop model of many of its higherprofile Caribbean neighbours.

Sugar cane plantations, once the mainstay of the islands’ economy, have given way to tourism as the most-important economic sector, with the picturesque ruins of hundreds of years of sugar and rum production providing an atmospheric backdrop.

With mountainous interiors and coastal plains, the volcanic islands are a food lover’s paradise – the combination of the sea, fertile soil, sun and rainfall producing a smorgasbord of local delicacies.

We’d been forewarned to go easy on breakfast, with all indications that this would be a farm-to-table experience to remember. On arrival, we are ushered to a long table, heavy with food from the farm – curried eggs from the 80 free range chickens pecking about nearby, eggplant ratatouille, papaya jam on pumpkin pancakes, fresh fruit and vegetable wraps – all served on naturally anti-microbial banana leaves and washed down with coffee from beans grown on site.

St Kitts | St Kitts Tourism/PA

“Tiem” Williams at Liamuiga Farm | St Kitts Tourism/PA FAR

Belle Mont Resort | St Kitts Tourism/PA

Tiem then guides us down a path past enormous fruit and vegetables: papaya, avocados, limes and mangoes still too young to harvest but twice the size of those in the local Tesco, a small but growing pineapple patch and even a healthy cannabis plant – its cultivation is legal within a private dwelling on St Kitts with a permit.

We stop and eat fresh peanuts pulled from the ground, and see the young coffee trees the farm is carefully cultivating with the hope of one day producing enough beans to make its own single-source batches. After 40 minutes, it’s time for more food, this time bowls of steaming vegetable soup with plates of fish and chicken to add, as well as a fiery chilli sauce, with a coffee ice cream to finish.

The trip is a unique look at authentic island life, but it is not the only adventure we make into the rainforest. After an afternoon getting a beach fix, the next morning we meet local expert O’Neil Mulraine at Wingfield Estate, site of a sugar plantation dating back to the 1650s.

Over the following hour, O’Neil introduces us to the secrets of the forest, its plants and their medicinal benefits, flowers and seasonal fruits, and the sounds of crickets, toads, green tree frogs and the chatter of monkeys. RIGHT

At one point, we stop to snack on fresh almonds that have fallen from a tree along the trail, and cool our hands and feet in pristine streams edged with delicate ferns, surrounded by a thousand shades of green and blue sky peeking through the canopy above.

It’s hot, but our walk finishes back at Wingfield where we started, which helpfully is also the earliest known place of rum production in the Caribbean, dating back to 1681 and now back in operation as the Old Road Rum Company.

We are handed a rum punch – which tastes like nectar in the 30-degree temperatures – and tour around the remarkably preserved ruins of the boiling house, a lime kiln, mill house and aqueduct system, as well as original coppers which would have boiled the sugar cane.

We sample the rum currently available to buy, which is crafted from imported, molasses-based rum that is aged in bourbon casks for 12 years. We hear that the ambition is to return rum distillation to the site, and eventually plant sugar cane to bring the entire operation back to life.

Now fully immersed in island time, acclimatising to the heat and fortified with sweet rum, we return to our first hotel of the trip, the Belle Mont Sanctuary Resort nestled on Kittitian Hill at one thousand feet above sea level, with its standalone cottages and villas – many with their own infinity pools – overlooking the point where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Caribbean Sea.

An afternoon is spent languishing on the cool terrace, the breeze moving though the mango and banana trees – guests are encouraged to pick and eat anything that takes their fancy – and taking photos of curious monkeys as they peer at us while munching on fruit just metres away.

That evening, chef Telsa Johnson, who was born on the island, presents us with a feast of locally-produced delicacies – “that I grew up eating”, he tells us. We start with salt fish fritters and green banana, sweet potato and breadfruit chips. Many recipes have been handed down through the generations, like the flavourful Kittitian mutton stew, while freshly-caught Mahi Mahi and snapper are accompanied by local vegetables and salsa made from fruit growing around the estate.

We have flown eight hours for sun and sea but it is almost with regret that we leave the refreshing calm of the rainforested mountains. However, tiny, vibrant Nevis is just 3km across a stretch of water called The Narrows and is waiting to be explored. We board a catamaran and stop on the way to snorkel, before we are deposited on the white sands of Pinney’s Beach, just a few metres from Sunshine’s Bar and Grill.

From humble beginnings as a one-man grill shack, proprietor Sunshine has created the hugely popular ocean-front hangout, which specialises in locallycaught seafood and the notorious ‘Killer Bee’ rum cocktail – its ingredients a never-to-be-revealed secret. All we find out is that one of them could easily have you taking to one of the bar’s hammocks and missing the boat home. The spot is popular not only with locals, but counts Beyonce, John Travolta, Kevin Bacon, Catherine Zeta-Jones and Mel Gibson as guests over the years.

From here, we return to the beachside luxury of the Park Hyatt St Kitts, which spans the entire Banana Bay with its white sands, crystal clear water and spectacular views back to Nevis.

The hotel pays homage to its location in the form of the luxurious Sugar Mill spa, with its treatment lotions featuring ginger, lime, sugar cane and coconut, and restaurant menus championing local dishes.

But perhaps the loveliest moment comes at 6am, sitting on the terrace as the sun rises and the early morning Caribbean breeze rustles the palms, reflecting on a trip to islands that proudly offer their visitors a rich culture and history, as well as spectacular beaches.

How to plan your trip

Rooms at Park Hyatt St Kitts start from US$375/£299 (plus taxes) room-only. Visit hyatt.com. Rooms at Belle Mont Sanctuary Resort start from US$879/£782, including breakfast. Visit bellemontsanctuaryresort.com. British Airways (ba.com) flies to St Kitts from London Gatwick from £506pp.

For more information on St. Kitts, see visitstkitts.com.

Words by Josie Clarke, PA

ABOVE

An aerial view of the Park Hyatt St Kitts | Park Hyatt/PA

LEFT

Blue seas of St Kitts and Nevis | St Kitts Tourism/PA

Sail into a brilliant new era in 2025

Indulge in the luxury and exc ement of Vir n Voyages’ Brilliant Lady

Virgin Voyages are reimaging the cruise industry and have already won a plethora of awards in 2023 and that list continue to grow.

So what is the Virgin Voyage concept?

Virgin Voyages o ers an exclusive, kidfree superyacht feel, where exceptional service and their unique vision have been making waves since inception. Every voyage includes their value-packed Always Included Luxuries, covering speciality dining, group fitness classes, crew tips, onboard Wi-Fi, essential drinks along with shows and entertainment all included at no additional cost.

Guests can savour a variety of cuisines at over 20 unique eateries, enjoy professional fitness classes, and stay connected with high-speed Wi-Fi, all included. Virgin Voyages’ casually luxurious vibe eliminates bu ets and pre-set dining times, o ering fresh flavours and unexpected pairings at eateries like The Wake, The Dock, and Gunbae, all with ocean views.

Virgin Voyages provides brilliant service and endless options, with experiences curated for adults. The ships combine the luxury of a yacht with diverse options, featuring spaces

CONTACT

T. 07507 723355

E. damon.robbins@notjusttravel.com

that inspire connection while keeping the sea in focus. The latest addition, the Brilliant Lady, epitomises exclusivity and o ers a perfect blend of luxury, excitement, and relaxation for modern travellers.

As the fourth and possibly last ship, the Brilliant Lady signifies the end of an era and the start of unforgettable adventures. It boasts a modern and chic design, vibrant atmosphere, and an array of amenities catering to various interests and tastes from the moment you board.

Entertainment and activities

The Brilliant Lady features vibrant nightlife and entertainment options designed for adults. Enjoy live performances, DJ sets, and immersive shows. The ship includes topnotch fitness facilities, a state-of-the-art gym, yoga classes, and an outdoor running track. For relaxation, visit the luxurious spa or enjoy multiple pools and hot tubs.

Accommodations

The ship o ers various cabins and suites, each with modern amenities and stunning ocean views. Choose from cosy interior cabins or splurge on a Rockstar Suite with a private terrace and VIP perks. Cabins feature smart technology, mood lighting, and tabletcontrolled settings for a seamless stay.

Technology and convenience

The Brilliant Lady o ers fast and reliable Wi-Fi. The Virgin Voyages app serves as a personal concierge, allowing guests to book excursions, reserve dining, and access their itinerary conveniently.

WEBSITE

www.damonrobbins.notjusttravel.com www.notjustcruise.co.uk/tc/damonrobbins

Destinations

Virgin Voyages o ers itineraries to beautiful destinations worldwide. Experience inaugural sailings to destinations like New York City to Bermuda, Miami to St. Maarten, Tortola, and Bimini, Los Angeles to Santa Barbara, San Diego, and Ensenada, and Alaska from Seattle.

Exclusive Perks

Booking an inaugural sailing includes exclusive parties, meet-and-greets with the ship’s o icers and crew, and commemorative gifts, ensuring a VIP experience from start to finish. Inaugural sailings are highly sought after and sell out quickly. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of something extraordinary.

Contact Damon at Not Just Travel today to secure your spot on one of the Brilliant Lady’s first voyages.

PICTURED Damon Robbins at Not Just Travel

P r i v a t e h i r e a b o a r d D o r s e t Q u e e n

W i t h a f u l l y s t o c k e d b a r , o n b o a r d B B Q a n d m u l t i d e c k s o u n d s y s t e m ,

W i t h a f u l l y s t o c k e d b a r , o n b o a r d B B Q a n d m u l t i d e c k s o u n d s y s t e m ,

D o r s e t Q u e e n h a s a l l y o u n e e d f o r t h e p er f e c t p r i v a t e c r u i s e E n j o y

D o r s e t Q u e e n h a s a l l y o u n e e d f o r t h e p er f e c t p r i v a t e c r u i s e E n j o y

s t u n n i n g v i e w s a s y o u c r u i s e a r o u n d t h e i s l a n d s o f P o o l e H a r b o u r .

s t u n n i n g v i e w s a s y o u c r u i s e a r o u n d t h e i s l a n d s o f P o o l e H a r b o u r . A t D o r s e t C r u i s e s , w e o f f e r a r a n g e o f c a t e r i n g o p t i o n s ,

s t u n n i n g v i e w s a s y o u c r u i s e a r o u n d t h e i s l a n d s o f P o o l e H a r b o u r

A t D o r s e t C r u i s e s , w e o f f e r a r a n g e o f c a t e r i n g o p t i o n s ,

A t D o r s e t C r u i s e s , w e o f f e r a r a n g e o f c a t e r i n g o p t i o n s ,

d e c o r a t i o n s , b e v e r a g e s , c u s t o m m u s i c p l a y l i s t s o r l i v e m u s i c i a n s . W e

d e c o r a t i o n s , b e v e r a g e s , c u s t o m m u s i c p l a y l i s t s o r l i v e m u s i c i a n s . W e w o r k w i t h

w o r k w i t h y o u t o c r e a t e t h e p e r f e c t b e s o k e e v e n t t h a t e v e r y o n e w i l l r e m e m b e r . O u r b e s p o k e e v e n t s i n c l u d e b i r t h d a y p a r t i e s , a n n i v e s a r i e s , w e d i n g s , C e l e b r a t i o n s o f L i f e a n d c o r p o r a t e e nt e r t a i n m e n t

d e c o r a t i o n s , b e v e r a g e s , c u s t o m m u s i c p l a y l i s t s o r l i v e m u s i c i a n s . W e w o r k w i t h y o u t o c r e a t e t h e p e r f e c t b e s p o k e e v e n t t h a t e v e r y o n e w i l l r e m e m b e r . O u r b e s p o k e e v e n t s i n c l u d e b i r t h d a y p a r t i e s , a n n i v e r s a r i e s , w e d d i n g s , C e l e b r a t i o n s o f L i f e a n d c o r p o r a t e e nt e r t a i n m e n t .

J oin us

FOR OUR OPEN DAY

Saturday 29 th June | 10am - 2pm

Step into the heart of our home, explore our facilities, meet our residents and dedicated team, learn more about the exceptional care we provide as we celebrate Care Home Open Week

Navigating success: The story behind Danehurst Estate Agents

Every property journey is different, their expertise and support is constant

We interviewed Sarah and Stuart to uncover the story behind Danehurst Estate Agents, exploring their motivations, unique approach, and the expertise that sets them apart in the industry.

Can you share with us the story behind Danehurst Estate Agents - how did the company come into existence and what motivated its founding?

Sarah: Stuart and I each have over 20 years of experience in the estate agency industry, having navigated various market conditions, from recessions to booms. I started my own agencies in the early 2000s and later went on to sell them. More recently I worked for the largest corporate agency in the UK, where I met Stuart. I always wanted to start my own agency again, as I noticed gaps in the industry; particularly in adapting to longer working hours, increased social media use and modern communication methods. Stuart and I became friends, despite it seeming like we had nothing in common at first, we instantly clicked! We came to the realisation that not only did we have a complementary skill set but, the determination and vision of building a future team of likeminded professionals. In January 2023, we launched Danehurst Estate Agents together.

What sets you apart from other agencies?

Stuart: Estate agents often face trust issues, and buying a house is one of life’s most stressful events. At Danehurst, we value the trust our clients place in us and feel

privileged to ease that pressure. Our private client approach sets us apart. By limiting the number of properties we take on, we ensure a personalised, focused service. We create bespoke marketing plans for each client, showcasing properties effectively. Our flexible communication methods and extended hours suit busy lifestyles. This dedication to building lasting relationships has resulted in numerous client recommendations.

How does your expertise of Dorset and The New Forest area benefit your clients?

Sarah: I was born on Danehurst New Road in a small village in the New Forest and come from an equestrian background where I regularly competed, giving me a unique perspective and strong connection to the community. This personal connection inspired our agency’s name, Danehurst, and also influenced our branding, which reflects the New Forest and nature, including a hidden bumblebee if you look closely. After moving to Christchurch, I have continued dealing with a variety of properties, land, and development. Stuart’s background includes

selling various types of homes in Dorset and the New Forest, from thatched cottages and family homes to grade-listed buildings and small holdings. Our combined experience and deep local knowledge ensure our clients receive the best advice and service tailored to this unique region.

Could you provide an overview of the range of services you offer to clients?

Stuart: We offer a comprehensive range of services including (but not limited to) sales, lettings, land, development, auctions and mortgages. Our partnership with Canford Financial Services, headed by Director Jenny Old, a long-term friend of Sarah and trusted business partner, ensures our clients receive expert financial advice.

The property market can be unpredictable at times. How do you adapt to changing market conditions to best serve your clients and stay ahead of the curve?

Sarah: We adapt by staying informed and proactive. We attend key property conferences, keep up-to-date with the latest legislation, and regularly take courses to ensure our knowledge is current. We also closely monitor financial markets in collaboration with our mortgage team at Canford Financial Services. Our memberships in the National Association of Estate Agents and Propertymark reinforce our commitment to the highest industry standards, ensuring we provide our clients with advice relating to the UK housing market.

Timeless elegance: Luxurious living in a Grade II listed farmhouse

Nestled in the picturesque village of Milborne St. Andrew, this Grade II Listed former farmhouse exudes timeless elegance. Offering approximately 3158 sqft of luxurious living space, meticulously crafted for comfort and sophistication.

Steeped in history, believed to have been built in 1804, with hints of earlier origins. The striking front façade features flint and stone banding under a traditional thatched roof, evoking rustic grandeur.

Upon entering, there is a seamless fusion of period features and contemporary stylish interior. The residence boasts four reception rooms, each with its own unique character and charm. The heart of the home lies in the spacious kitchen, where culinary

delights come to life amidst the warmth of an Aga stove, a central island, and French doors that beckon to the enchanting rear garden. Adjacent to the kitchen, a walk-in pantry and a separate utility room provide convenient storage solutions, further on is another room offering the perfect space for a home office or personal sanctuary.

The staircase to the first floor reveals three generously proportioned double bedrooms, including one with an en-suite bathroom. A stunning family bathroom, with a classic roll-top bath and a separate shower cubicle. There is a wrought iron spiral staircase that leads to the second floor, where a charming library area awaits, alongside a spacious 20foot guest bedroom complete with its own en-suite facilities.

The rear garden has been designed to evoke the charm of a cottage-style courtyard. This outdoor space offers a tranquil sanctuary for alfresco dining, entertaining, or simply watching the wildlife.

Completing this property there is off-road parking and a good sized shed to the side of the property.

To truly appreciate the charm and elegance of this exceptional property, we invite you to arrange a viewing. Contact our dedicated team at Danehurst Estate Agents today for more information or to schedule your visit.

MILBORNE ST. ANDREW, Price Guide £575,000

Photos courtesy of Gabriela Godfrey of ResComUK.

WINTERBORNE HOUGHTON, DORSET

A brick and flint Victorian school house with comfortable accommodation, gardens and small paddock in a picturesque village location. In all about 2/3 of an acre

Entrance porch, open plan kitchen and dining room, sitting room, study/craft room. 4 good bedrooms and 2 bath/shower rooms (1 ensuite). Carport and outside stores.

GUIDE PRICE £825,000

WINTERBORNE KINGSTON, DORSET

A well proportioned and immaculately presented barn conversion with a lovely mature garden, part of a private courtyard development in a popular village location.

Entrance hall, kitchen/breakfast room, dining Room, drawing room and conservatory. 4 good bedrooms and 2 bath/shower rooms (1 ensuite). Integral garage.

GUIDE PRICE £695,000

WINTERBORNE ZELSTON, DORSET

An impressive individual barn conversion and an outstanding detached annexe situated in an elevated position on the edge of the village. In all about 2 acres

Galleried entrance hall, open plan kitchen and breakfast room, family room, dining room, sitting room, and garden room. 6 bedrooms all ensuite.

Separate detached annexe with open plan living room, 2 or 3 beds and studio. Large timber outbuildings and space for garaging (STPP).

GUIDE PRICE

£2,350,000

STOURPAINE, DORSET

A highly individual stone house with a lovely cottage garden in an elevated position with wonderful views across the valley.

Reception hall, drawing room, kitchen/breakfast room, study/snug, dining room and conservatory. 4 good bedrooms and 2 bathrooms (1 ensuite). Garage and carport.

GUIDE PRICE

£1,200,000

Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices PROPERTY EXPERTS SINCE 1910

Cluedo 2 – The Next Chapter

Meet Ellie Leach, Jason Durr and the show’s director, Mark Bell

For Strictly Come Dancing champion and former Coronation Street actress Ellie Leach and ex Heartbeat and Casualty actor Jason Durr, the chance to play Miss Scarlett and Colonel Mustard in Cluedo 2 – The Next Chapter were roles they both simply couldn’t turn down.

The two stars are starring in a major new nationwide UK stage tour which marks the world premiere of this new play, based on the classic Hasbro boardgame and starts at the end of February 2024. Written by BAFTA Award winning writers Laurence Marks and Maurice Gran (who wrote TV hits including Birds of a Feather and the stage hit Dreamboats and Petticoats) and directed by the award winning Mark Bell, the Cluedo 2 tour will kick off at Richmond Theatre on 29th February and then visit more than 20 venues around the country.

Both actors admit they can’t wait to go on tour. It’s Ellie’s first ever theatre role after she shot to fame playing Faye Windass for 12 years in Coronation Street and then went on to win last year’s Strictly Come Dancing. Meanwhile Jason, who has starred in many TV roles and until recently as Nurse David Hide in Casualty, admits he has long harboured an ambition to return to his theatre roots.

“This is my first stage play and I am very excited to be playing Miss Scarlett, “ says Ellie ahead of her stage debut. “It is nervewracking as it’s something completely different to TV but I really want to push myself out of my comfort zone. A year ago, I would never have expected Strictly, then the Strictly arena tour and now Cluedo 2 happen. I am so grateful as Miss Scarlett is such an iconic character to play.”

Adds Jason: “I have done an enormous amount of television but there is nothing quite like performing in front of a live audience and making people laugh. I am looking forward to going back to my roots, acting on stage, and getting my funny bones going again in the form of this riproaring comedy. When I read the scripts for the first time, I was in a quiet coach on a train and I started hooting with laughter! A lady told me to be quiet but I couldn’t help but laugh throughout. It’s going to be phenomenal to bring comedy and a classic whodunnit to the stage where the audience get to be the detective.”

As the actors go on to explain, both their roles have been cleverly reinvented to fit in with the new setting of the play in the rock and roll 1960s – something they are both

hugely excited by. “At first, Miss Scarlet seems like butter won’t melt,” reveals Ellie. “She is an interior designer and she seems very unassuming. But as the play develops, well… people may not be quite what they seem. Cluedo is, afterall, a thriller and murder mystery game!”

Like Miss Scarlett, Colonel Mustard is also hiding secrets, Jason then explains. “We are going to be reinventing the narrative,” says the actor. “Rick Black is a rock star in the play and Mustard is his manager. “Like Elvis had the Colonel, this chap has Mustard! He thinks he knows what he is doing but he doesn’t really.”

The icing on the cake, admit Ellie and Jason, is the chance to work alongside the show’s critically acclaimed director Mark Bell, who is also the director behind the global hit, The Play That Goes Wrong. Enthuses Jason: “Mark is the past master at mishap and mayhem and he has his finger on the pulse. This is the perfect tonic we need right now in the world we are living in.”

PICTURED ABOVE Ellie Leach

PICTURED ABOVE Jason Durr | Credit - Dan Kennedy

Smiling, Mark insists it’s the play’s writers, Laurence Marks and Maurice Gran, who should win all the praise. “I am a minor Viscount compared to their Highnesses,” he jokes before adding: “They are royalty and as soon as I met them, we hit it off. It’s a privilege to be working with them and this great new cast. It’s a new story with new twists and what I love is the fact Cluedo is such an important part of our culture.”

Indeed, for both the new stars of the play and Mark, the Cluedo boardgame represents such an iconic part of British heritage. It’s one of the reasons, says Mark, why the first Cluedo play proved to be such a big hit in its stage tour in 2022. “I played Cluedo as a child and I think it’s why we had such a fantastic audience response with the first Cluedo stage play,” Mark continues. “People enjoy seeing these characters come to life.”

“This isn’t the first time I’ve played Colonel Mustard,” jokes Jason. “I used to play him and the game as a kid. I grew up in Hong Kong and the one game we loved was Cluedo. I’ve introduced it to my children now too.”

Ellie says she loves how unique the characters are. “Everyone can define who all the characters are,” she continues. “They are very distinctive.”

Determined to throw everything into the new production, all three are working hard behind the scenes to make sure it’s another huge success. Jason says he hopes to be sure to steady his stage nerves whilst Ellie is drawing from her experience performing in front of thousands on her recent Strictly arena UK tour. “All the cast have welcomed me with such open arms,” she says. “Thousands came to watch the Strictly tour and it did give me a sense of what it is like to perform in front of a live audience. It’s going to be also amazing to take on this new experience and do something different to TV, which is practically at the other end of the acting scale. Television is

very naturalistic and on stage, everything happens a thousand times bigger. But that’s what is so exciting.”

Meanwhile, one of Mark’s goals is to focus on making sure the actors feel relaxed in their verbal and physical delivery of comedic moments ahead of the tour. And so now, with rehearsals underway, he reveals he’s already got a few tricks up his sleeve to make sure the actors don’t feel afraid being silly. “I like to start off each day of rehearsals with a silly game to warm up,” he says. “Putting on a comedy is far harder than a straight play because the comic timings have to look effortless.

“The jokes won’t work otherwise. For me, I never get bored of telling stories and structuring jokes so you get laughter. Shared laughter is so important and so one of my favourite improvisations with the actors is to run a pretend job interview. Only it gets sillier and sillier and by the end, they might be tap dancing whilst pretending to be a chicken!”

For all three, touring around the UK can be tough but each are making sure to balance family life and other work commitments. With other projects also on the go, Mark explains he tries to visit different cities hosting the play every fortnight whilst both Ellie and Jason reveal they are planning to bring their families along to watch. “It’s never great leaving home but you make it work,” admits Jason. “My wife and children will definitely be coming to watch. It will be a chance for us to have a giggle. I think I look rather fetching in yellow!”

Adds Ellie: “My family can’t wait to come and watch me in this show. Obviously after going on tour with Strictly, I have now had experience of living out of a suitcase and what is great about this show is I am going to be going back to acting again.  I was known for many years as Faye Windass and as amazing as that was, it was then nice for people to find out more about me and my personality on Strictly. Now it’s going

to be great to transform myself into a new character. I love how Cluedo 2 is perfect for everyone in the family and it is lovely how, thanks partly now to The Traitors too, people really enjoy murder mysteries!

“When I spoke to Mark about how the play felt a bit like The Traitors, he agreed. He said ‘yes, everyone is trying to suss everyone out!’ I can’t wait for everyone to come and watch it.”

What’s particularly exciting for both stars is that 2024 marks a very special landmark for the famous Hasbro boardgame – its 75th birthday. “To be part of the 75th birthday celebrations is going to be exciting,” admits Jason. “I really hope we will make the audience laugh every time as we bring to life, live action versions of Cluedo’s famous characters on stage.”

As for what the audience can expect when they watch the new stage version, Mark smiles as he teases: “Cluedo 2 is a really great whodunnit. It’s fast paced, high energy with lots of verbal and visual jokes. This is one for all the family – everyone is going to come out smiling!”

By Christine Smith

PICTURED

Inspiration Agency GROWTH BUSINESS

MARKETING

We deliver big business marketing at a price small businesses can afford.

We are delighted with our new e-commerce website. The Inspiration Agency really ‘got’ our brand right from the start, the build proceeded smoothly and nothing was too much trouble. We are already seeing great results in terms of visitors and orders!

Nothing is too much trouble, every deadline is hit and the expert advice we have received on everything from design to digital, search engines to social media has been outstanding. Plus we are getting calls for jobs from new clients and some we hadn’t heard from in a while!

An increase of 160% on impressions and 200% on engagement with our Followers on social media in just two months is amazing! Plus we have seen a significant increase in enquiries from the kind of customers we want to be talking to!

Ways to adapt your home for multigenerational living 5

With more and more family members living under one roof, here’s how to reinvent your space and marry function with flair.

In may not be a catchy term, but multifunctional living is a thing.

Whether it’s households still feeling the impact of the cost-of-living crisis, high rents, monthly mortgage or vulnerable, lonely grandparents, multigenerational homes are on the rise.

Indeed, with a 14% increase in adult children living with their parents and an all-time high of people above the age of 65, now more than ever, homeowners are remodelling their homes to accommodate multiple generations.

With this in mind, these expert tips should ensure a smooth transition when renovating for co-living; or if no one’s ready to fly the nest…

RIGHT

The glass doors in this indoor courtyard create a semi-private space that still feels connected to the rest of the home | Mia Karlsson Interior Design/Marco Joe Fazio/PA

Make rooms multifunctional

“When you add a new family member, it’s not always possible to have separate spaces for living, dining, working and sleeping,” says Amanda Pollard, senior editor at leading home and design platform, Houzz. “To accommodate multigenerational living, spaces may need to work even harder to meet everyone’s needs.”

To create multifunctional spaces that serve a range of needs, she says designers on Houzz suggest incorporating hard-working elements like flexible furniture arrangements, built-in storage units, and space-saving features such as fold-down tables and wall-mounted desks.

Amnah Bugrein, director at Black & Milk says: “Creating multifunctional spaces within a cosy interior is about maximising functionality without sacrificing comfort. By integrating flexible furniture arrangements, smart storage solutions such as sofa beds, and adaptable design elements, you can enhance the usability of each space while maintaining a warm and inviting atmosphere.

“It’s important to keep in mind balance whilst incorporating versatile pieces to help optimise spatial flow and functionality,” notes Bugrein, “while preserving the cosy charm of the home.”

Prioritise privacy

In a home that spans generations, it’s important everyone has at least a semi-private space if they need it, says Pollard.

“If you’re tight on space or looking to break up an openplan living area, come up with solutions to create more privacy, whether that’s adding folding walls or installing privacy doors.”

When space is tight and each family member has their own individual needs, Mia Karlsson, owner of Mia Karlsson Interior Design, says it’s worth considering more flexible ways of dividing a space that still allows freedom of light and movement. “And lets everyone feel connected whilst enjoying their own space.

“We have used open joinery, floating bookshelves or screens that can be moved aside to create room dividers – the key is using something that doesn’t feel too solid or restrictive.”

ABOVE

A hidden workspace within a mirrored wardrobe | Black & Milk/PA

Create a sociable kitchen

The kitchen is often the social hub of the home, and according to Houzz research, homeowners are increasingly dedicating more space to their kitchens during renovations – with three in five homeowners making their kitchens bigger, notes Pollard.

“If you’re designing a multigenerational kitchen, that extra space may be warranted, but make sure you plan it with sociability in mind,” she highlights.

“Consider adding additional seating around the island, illuminating gathering spaces and creating sufficient space for traffic flow.”

Moreover, Jonathan Wing, commercial manager at Kitchen Connection of Ascot, KCA, says it’s important to consider how to create individual zones that also feel socially inclusive within the kitchen/living space.

When designing, he says to think about creating invisible barriers and pathways which help guide family members through the space naturally.

“For example, allocate sufficient space around the kitchen island so the host can stand on one side… and rest can be seated comfortably on the other.

“Or place the beverage station at the end of the kitchen closest to the dining table,” suggests Wing. “Perfect for family breakfast in the morning, or glass of wine with friends in the evening. It’s all about creating areas for congregating that guide people to filter from one area to another seamlessly – and the space to operate as one.”

Establish defined zones

“Carefully planning open-plan spaces is key, especially when it comes to multigenerational living, and zoning is a big part of that,” says Pollard.

“To create functional zones – and a degree of separation – we’re increasingly seeing homeowners seek out solutions to help divide up spaces, with searches rising for several different types of room dividers.”

Becky Storey, founder and creative director of Storey Interiors, agrees: “Zoning is a great way to create privacy and ‘quiet zones’ in open-plan spaces to meet the needs of more people.

ABOVE

Kitchen designed with sociability in mind and includes individual zones | Kitchen Connection of Ascot, KCA/PA

“For parents, communal spaces that also offer privacy can make it easier to keep an eye on children whilst supporting independent play.”

“For live-in grandparents, a seating area looking onto the garden or into the kitchen can create connection in an open-plan space, even if they are not participating in an activity. Zoning helps to make a space diverse and inclusive for different users,” Storey adds.

Adapt spaces for accessibility Ensuring practical spaces, such as the bathroom, meet the needs of all ages in your home is of utmost importance, says Pollard.

If you’re planning a bathroom project, she says it’s wise to take accessibility into account when making updates.

“For example, you could increase the height of your vanity or add seating in your shower. If you’re looking for more budget-friendly updates, consider installing grab rails in the shower and non-slip rugs throughout your bathroom. By making these accessibility changes, not only will you age-proof your bathroom, but you’ll futureproof it as well.”

Words by Sam Wylie-Harris

ABOVE

A walk-in shower offers easy, step-free access for all ages | KERV Interiors/Rob Chapman/PA

LEFT

This open-plan space facilitates connection, but also includes distinct zones that serve different functions | Storey Interiors/Colin Ross/PA

Moreton, Dorchester

£1,200,000

A beautiful well established country pub and gardens | Stunning setting in the heart of Dorset with own pub walk | Offered for the first time in 32 years due to retirement | Next to busy campsite offering exceptional summer trade | 4/5 bedroom extensive accommodation on the first floor

Three Legged Cross, Wimborne

£750,000

Detached bungalow | Four double bedrooms | Immaculately presented | Detached double garage | Semi rural location | Large secluded wrap around garden | Ample parking for multiple vehicles

Maidencombe, Torquay

£2,000,000

HOME AND INCOME Bowden House is an original Victorian villa (not listed) set in an elevated position of the beautiful area of Maidencombe on the coast road of South Devon boasting far reaching sea views across Lyme Bay. It is being successfully run as a home & income business and incorporates spacious owners’ accommodation with stunning sea views, situated in the main house, plus 7 self-catering holiday apartments, all fully equipped, and a 2 bedroom detached cottage currently used as a recording studio. Bowden House offers a real lifestyle change and has flexible luxury accommodation throughout. The Thatched Tavern pub is walking distance, and Maidencombe Cove has a cafe and a variety of water activities including surfing, snorkelling, kayaking and coasteering. There are miles of coastal paths on the doorstep, attracting lots of visitors all year round. Teignmouth and Shaldon are 2 miles away, as is Babbacombe and Torquay, the lovely bustling cathedral city of Exeter, the M5 and Exeter Airport are all very convenient, and the Great Western Railway takes you to London in 2 1/2 hours . There are potential development opportunities, and further income streams i.e. weddings, group retreats etc. The Jam Shed Cafe was opened on site at the end of 2019 and proved extremely popular and successful with locals and visitors who enjoyed a cream tea on the terrace with a glass of fizz or a tasty bacon butty or a slice of mouthwatering homemade cake, (cafe is still in situ but currently closed but could easily be reinstated). Bowden House would also be an attractive proposition to anyone who is looking for a multi-generational property.

Bloxworth, Wareham £1,195,000

Four bedroom | Detached | Potential for home and income | Stunning character property | Picturesque countryside setting | Timber framed car port and extensive parking | Attractive gardens and courtyard

Matravers, Poole £1,350,000

Coveted sought after semi-rural location | Spectacular Purbeck views | Plot approaching 2 acres including paddock | Five bedrooms | Three

| 3,000

living space | Potential to divide for two families or annexe | No onward chain

Lychett

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LANDLORDS BEWARE ON GAS SAFETY CERTIFICATES

Just when you think you got it all sown up and you know every single part of making sure all paperwork is compliant, something throws a curb ball!

We all know it is vital to have a Gas safety Certificate on a rental property. We know the absolute importance of not allowing that certificate to expire, we all know NOT having a Gas Certificate on a property is a fine of £6,000 per item and/or six months in prison. BUT… who knew this!

A landlord recently had a Section 21 rejected through Shoreditch County Court because the Landlord Gas Safety Certificate did not bear the landlords name and address. The property address was on there, the gas engineer name and number was there and the date was there and all correct, but because it didn’t have the landlord name and the landlord(or agent) address, in the box it was thrown out.

Then low and behold this week, a landlord’s own contractor provided us with a gas safety certificate without the landlord details on it. We asked him to complete it and return it.

At Move On, we have never had a Section 21 rejected in the 18 years we have been in business and I am extremely proud of this, we check everything for the court paperwork, but we also attend yearly legal updates to make sure we are always up to date with the legislations. Most agents and landlords will say this scenario is a first, but now we are all pre-warned. Make sure your certificates have your name and your address or your agents address in the box.

Sharon

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How do you choose an ethical wildlife holiday?

Sarah Marshall speaks to experts about the dos and don’ts of booking a nature-themed break.

Inspired by numerous nature documentaries, wildlife holidays are becoming increasingly popular. Bookings for safaris have boomed in Kenya and Tanzania since the pandemic, and citizen science trips based around conservation are becoming more popular too.

But as we develop a greater sensitivity towards the wild world, our attitude towards nature is changing. Although once commonly accepted, the idea animals might be used for entertainment is now abhorrent.

Recently, easyJet Holidays vowed to stop selling any activities where animals might be harmed in captivity. Other operators have made similar commitments in the past.

Distinguishing between ‘good’ and ‘bad’ wildlife experiences isn’t always easy, however. Some sanctuaries, for example, provide excellent care for animals – even if they aren’t living in the wild. On the flip side, there are occasions where animal behaviour is impacted by tourism – even in remote areas such as Antarctica or the African savanna.

So, how do you navigate the minefield of choosing an ethical wildlife holiday? We asked some experts to share their tips.

Be aware of any (too) close encounters

“We don’t ever support any kind of ‘close encounters’ with wildlife, which involve touching, feeding or the exploitation of wildlife of any kind,” says Candice Buchan, head of Rainbow Tours. “We wouldn’t do anything that interferes with the natural order of the animals freely going about their business, or where they don’t have complete autonomy. The closest people could get would be with researchers or conservationists that are working to protect certain species.”

LEFT (BOTTOM)

Petting animals changes their behaviour | Alamy/PA

performances in captivity are no longer acceptable | Alamy/PA

Charlie Potter, Africa sales manager at luxury family safari specialists, Coral Tree, adds: “Paying to feed lion cubs or washing elephants is normalising wild animals as pets and is fuelling the illegal wildlife trade. If you are paying for hands-on interaction with animals, you’re not travelling ethically. There are no exceptions to this rule.”

Avoid anything involving entertainment

“One of the biggest indications of whether wildlife experiences are ethical is if they include some form of ‘entertainment’ factor, where wildlife have been trained to perform, or more alarmingly a chance to get handson with wildlife,” says Greg Fox, co-founder Mahlatini Luxury Travel. “Research from credible sources is key.”

Do

your research

“Many organisations have memberships or certifications that demonstrate they walk the walk ethically, sustainably and responsibly. World Animal Protection, The Long Run, Travel by B Corp and 1% For The Planet are just a few of these to look out for,” says Lara Webster, Journey Planner at Journeys With Purpose, an operator specialising in conservation focussed trips.

“Sometimes, the clearest indication of whether a holiday or activity is ethical is your gut instinct. As well as asking the relevant team/company questions, question yourself! Does your trip require the wildlife to behave (or worse, perform) in an unnatural way? Are you gaining access to it in a manner that is likely to encroach on its boundaries, comfort or cause distress? Read the reviews, and be honest with your judgement.”

Don’t forget about communities

“In an ideal world, we’d like to see national parks and their attendant wildlife conserved because it’s the right thing to do – because we believe that we should leave the planet in a better state than when we found it,” says Chris MacIntyre, managing director for Expert Africa.

“However, in the real world, we understand that these areas, and their wildlife, usually need to pay for themselves to be conserved – and so generating funds through tourism is often key to the conservation of many such areas and their wildlife. For the local communities, we’re keen on interactions which help to provide them with sustainable jobs and income, and encourage conservation of the wildlife and its ecosystem.”

Not all zoos and marine parks are bad

“Clearly the great beauty of a wildlife experience is appreciating the magnificence of these creatures in their natural habitat, so we don’t have zoos or marine parks in our programme,” says Buchan. “However not all these experiences are 100% negative – sometimes the education on offer is valuable, and in some cases these organisations are doing important conservation or research work. So each case needs to be carefully assessed on its individual merits, ethics and objectives.”

Choose sanctuaries carefully

“When visiting a sanctuary or volunteering with animals, look for minimal or zero contact policies. The more human contact animals have, the less likely they can ever be released,” advises Rob Perkins from Responsible Travel. “In most cases, and unless necessary, you should have little or no physical contact with them. There are many sanctuaries rescuing animals that can’t be released back into the wild – but those that operate ethically don’t offer rides or performances, and will still discourage unnecessary contact.

“For example, bathing an elephant may seem innocent, but they aren’t domesticated animals. So they’re often badly abused to break their spirit, in order for tourists to be able to ride or wash them. With rare exceptions, wildlife experiences should happen in the wild – on the animals’ terms. Animals shouldn’t be held in captivity as a tourist attraction.”

Words by Sarah Marshall, PA

Images credit Alamy/PA

ABOVE

Viewing animals from a distance | Alamy/PA

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The secret to choosing the perfect home colour scheme

These are the best shades for north, south, east and west-facing rooms, according to an expert.

With a vast library of paint colours at our fingertips, fancy finishes and so many takes on trending colours such as blue – from cool, to light and airy, to muted, to deep – now here’s a conundrum to puzzle our paintbrush.

As Sarah Lloyd, paint and interiors expert at Valspar puts it: “Deciding on a paint colour for the spaces in your home can be difficult, especially as natural light changes throughout the day, meaning the appearance of the colour also changes too.”

Moreover, she says light can be so influential, the same colour will look different from room to room, so it’s important to pick the right colour for your walls.

“Whether the room is north, south, east or west-facing, there are certain colours that will be better suited to certain spaces than others,” says Lloyd.

To help you navigate those colour charts, these are the colours to select, depending on the situation….

North-facing rooms

“North-facing rooms get the least amount of light,” notes Lloyd. “Paint these rooms with colours that will brighten the space, and keep it nice and airy. “Warmer blush tones are best for north-facing rooms, and can also be incorporated through curtains, pillows and throws.”

LEFT & RIGHT

Choosing colours with the help of swatches | Alamy/PA

ABOVE

| Sophie Allport/PA

She continues: “Beige shades are also great colours for opening up the space and giving it a ‘refresh’. As well as the walls, use beige on the ceiling and skirting boards for an up-to-date colour drench effect.”

Colour drenching has become a popular interior design technique and consists of taking one dominant colour and using various shades of it in a room, across different surfaces and features, explains Lloyd.

“Incorporating this trend can create visually stunning and dramatic effects and also make a room feel brighter, more cohesive and even more spacious – perfect for north-facing rooms.”

It’s essential to choose the right paint finish, says Lloyd, as this will make a huge difference in the overall look of the space.

“While matt paint absorbs light, gloss paint will often reflect it. A soft sheen paint will work best in north-facing rooms, as it will reflect the light, brightening up the space and making the room look bigger.”

Perfect paint choice: Soft sheen, beige blush, colour-drenched across walls, ceiling and doors.

Blush pink paint on walls to illustrate northfacing rooms

South-facing rooms

In contrast, south-facing rooms receive the most amount of light, and you don’t need to factor in the sunrise or sunset, says Lloyd, as there is a good amount of light exposure for a long period of time. With this in mind, she says cooler tones such as blue and grey look great in a south-facing room. “Blue is on trend in 2024, and it’s a versatile colour that’s easy to style and can be used in many different ways to create a variety of moods and styles.

“When using blue, for a harmonious look, consider balancing the colour with neutral furniture such as bedside tables and cabinets, or accessories like lamp shades and vases. This combination adds depth while maintaining a sense of calm,” she adds.

While a solid grey paint will look super stylish when offset by white furnishings, such as drapes, candles and small ornaments, especially as the light shines through, says Lloyd. “As south-facing rooms have enough light, choosing a matt finish is perfect to balance out the brightness and bring a warmer tone. A matt finish is also good if there are any imperfections on the wall that need hiding.”

Perfect paint choice: Matt finish, using cooler tones such as blue – paired with neutral furniture.

Kitchen painted blue to illustrate south-facing rooms.| Valspar Paint/@ littlebristolterrace/PA

ABOVE

East and west-facing rooms

“East and west-facing rooms tend to get the same amount of sunlight, just at different times of the day,” highlights Lloyd.

“So it’s important to understand when you’ll be using the space the most and base the colour choice, and paint finish, on this instead.”

If you’re using these rooms throughout the day, she says it’s best to stick with neutral colours. “White, grey, and brown can all provide a sense of ease and warmth in the home, setting an inviting scene, no matter the time of the day.

“Painting walls with light neutrals such as cream and taupe is best to brighten the room and add an airy feel to your home.”

Depending on your style, Lloyd says to accentuate these spaces with oak wardrobes, tables and desks, to create a rustic feel – and an environment that feels comforting and relaxed, even more so, as the days get longer, suggests Lloyd.

Otherwise think white-on-white with creamy accents for Scandi-style or minimalist decor to help bounce the light around, making the most of warm, natural light in the morning; or late afternoon and early evening.

Perfect paint choice: Finish depends on how the room is utilised, but stick to neutrals to ensure a warmth setting throughout the day.

Sam Wylie-Harris

LEFT

Living room painted white to east and west-facing rooms | Valspar Paint/@homein_theleicester/PA

Broadview Shading Solutions; Turning customer dreams into a reality

We were recently tasked with enhancing the outdoor space for our client based in Chichester, West Sussex. We embarked on a journey to create a haven of entertainment and relaxation that seamlessly blends style with functionality.

Our client’s vision was clear – they sought a versatile outdoor area that would cater to gatherings of friends and family, regardless of the of the weather. Armed with their desired concept, we set out to bring their dream to life, from conception to completion. The result? A space that exceeded expectations and left our client delighted.

At Broadview, customisation is key. We pride ourselves on our ability to tailor solutions to meet the unique needs and preferences of each client. For our project in Chichester, we utilised top-quality materials from Brustor and Cedral Lap, and Millboard for clad walling, ensuring durability and aesthetic appeal that stands the test of time.

Central to the transformation was the installation of a B200XL model Pergola, spanning 6.0m x 3.4m and providing an additional 20 square meters of outdoor living space. This fully tilting and closing system, adorned in Quartz Grey frame colour with white louvre blades, serves as the focal point of the outdoor area, o ering both shelter and style.

To enhance the ambiance, integrated LEDs were incorporated into the louvres, providing warm, dimmable lighting for evening gatherings. Motorised and integrated screens o er privacy and protection from the elements, while a clad wall, crafted from timber frame, awaits customisation to match the client’s house facade.

Don’t just take our word for it, tthis is what our client thought of the end result:

“Like a lot of people, the idea for an outdoor spa area was hatched during lockdown.  We knew we wanted a hot tub and seating area, but had no fixed idea about what kind of structure to put it in.

“After researching log cabins, Breeze Houses, garden rooms and gazebos we finally looked at pergolas.  An internet search let us to the Broadview website.  The Brustor pergolas had exactly the right contemporary and open feel we were looking for.

“We took time to visit the company and a few of the installations they had already completed to see how the structure fitted into various environments.  And the answer was - very well.

“Installing the foundations and electrics was the more complex part of the project.  We arranged this ourselves in consultation with Broadview.  Once that was ready, the custom made pergola installation was done in just one and a half days and almost looked too easy by comparison, professionals always made it look easy. The composite planking on the rear wall was our own idea and Broadview left us with a stud frame ready to run in wiring and finish o ourselves.

“We are so pleased with the end result.  It suits the property perfectly and works exactly how we hoped it would.”

01202 679012

sales@broadview.co.uk

www.broadview.co.uk

www.pergolasandshading.co.uk

Here at Broadview we typically survey from the ground up through to full installation with additional options of frameless sliding glass walls, integrated electric roller screens, non glow ceramic heaters and Bluetooth sound. We can supply ground preparation service or work with your chosen partner to achieve your garden goals.

In addition to our expertise in outdoor shading solutions, Broadview is proud to o er a comprehensive range of internal blinds tailored to suit even the most unique architectural features. For homeowners with apex and gable end shaped windows, we can provide bespoke blind solutions, whether it’s controlling light and privacy or adding a touch of elegance to unconventional window shapes.

We invite clients to experience our solutions firsthand at our showroom, open Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm, and Saturdays from 9 am to 12:30 pm. Visit us to explore the possibilities and transform your outdoor space into a sanctuary of comfort and style.

SHOWROOM

57 Hatchpond Road, Nu ield Industrial Estate, Poole, BH17 0JZ

Transform your home with Poole Joinery’s expertise

Double glazing specialists – windows, doors and conservatory installers

The 1980s in Britain were marked by a boom in home renovations, characterised by floral wallpaper, vibrant colours, and mirrors in almost every room. One of the most significant developments was the introduction of uPVC windows. This innovation sparked a revolution in the industry, leading to continuous advancements and the introduction of new products. In search of the latest trends, we visited Poole Joinery, a family-run business known for its cutting-edge offerings.

Meet Poole Joinery

Poole Joinery is a family business that prides itself on traditional family values. Founded by Roy Smith in 1994, the company has always focused on continuous improvement and evolution. This commitment has earned them a reputation for expertise, quality products, dependability, and friendly

service, encapsulated in their slogan, “the name you can trust.”

In 2001, Roy’s son Gareth joined the company, and with Roy now retired, Gareth runs Poole Joinery alongside his sister. They collaborate with top manufacturers to provide state-of-the-art windows, doors, and conservatories to homes across the South Coast. For nearly three decades, Poole Joinery has forged strong relationships with suppliers to ensure their customers receive the best products.

“We buy specialist products from specialist people. Our sliding sash windows, for example, come from Roseview Windows, who specialise solely in sliding sash windows. Similarly, our bi-folding doors are sourced from a company dedicated to that type of door,” explains Gareth.

Tailored window solutions

Gareth and his team are dedicated to finding the right solution for each customer’s needs, treating every window uniquely. Whether you’re upgrading for insulation, soundproofing, security, low maintenance, or aesthetics, Poole Joinery considers every detail to determine the best option.

Understanding triple glazing

Triple glazing is often marketed as inherently superior, but that’s not always the case. The efficiency of a window is measured by its ‘u-value’—the lower, the better. While adding an extra pane of glass can enhance insulation, it must be done correctly. Standard double-glazed units use an insulating gas called Argon, which requires an optimal gap of 16mm between panes. Adding a third pane without adjusting this gap can reduce efficiency. Effective triple glazing needs a 44mm unit with three 4mm panes and 16mm air gaps to maximise efficiency. Poole Joinery offers products with optimal double or triple glazing systems for ultimate efficiency.

Introducing the latest innovations

Homeowners and architects have long desired the look of real wood windows without the maintenance issues. Initially, foiled woodgrain uPVC provided a solution, but clients wanted an even more realistic

appearance. Poole Joinery’s answer is the Flush Sash uPVC window. Combining the integrity of wood with the durability of uPVC, these windows are ideal for period homes needing restoration and top-grade insulation.

The ‘Heritage’ range, featuring seamless timber-style joints made possible by ‘Seamless Welding Technology,’ offers a flawless finish. Without bumpy excess welding fluid, there’s no place for dirt and mould to accumulate, ensuring a pristine appearance for the life of the window. Available in various handpicked faux-wood finishes, these windows meticulously mimic the look and feel of real wood, covering styles from Georgian to Edwardian and beyond.

Why choose Poole Joinery?

Poole Joinery is the leading specialist in windows, doors, and conservatories in the area. With a wide array of high-quality products and expert advice, they can create the perfect solution for your home or business. Contact Poole Joinery today for a free, no-obligation quote.

CONTACT

01202 661299

office@poolejoinery.com

ADDRESS

188 Stanley Green Rd

Poole, BH15 3AH

WEBSITE

www.poolejoinerywindows.co.uk

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Contact us now for a free consultation. 01202 287351 contact@stallionpm.co.uk 18 Christchurch Road, Bournemouth, BH1 3NE

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Pergolas

These are the trends likely to catch on from the RHS Chelsea Flower Show

This year’s show gardens were full of colour and championed the importance of sustainability.

From the blend of historical literary inspiration with contemporary design excellence to the use of native plants, there has been an emphasis on sustainability and allowing nature to be itself at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

These are some of the key gardening trends to emerge from this year’s event.

Sustainability

According to the chair of The Society of Garden Designers (SGD) Andrew Duff, the main trend at this year’s RHS Chelsea is sustainability.

Dragon water sculpture

| Jonathan Brady/PA

Bonsai trees | Jonathan Brady/PA

Colourful house plants

| Jonathan Brady/PA

“It’s become the norm, and I don’t see it as a passing trend. There is a lot of native planting of plants from the UK, which makes it more adaptive. These are like birch trees, native grasses and a big move away from lawns,” said Duff. “People are more conscious of climate change. We will get a lot more rain as well as increased temperatures, which broadens the level of planting that’s being celebrated.”

The way people are using their gardens has changed, mainly due to the pandemic, Duff said.

“They are enjoying planting again and want to be outside, nurture a living thing in their garden and see how they can plant their own food and conserve rainwater.

“We can’t continue to water our gardens in the way we are doing. So plants need to be tougher and that’s why British natives are so important. It can also show that it’s okay for the garden to do its thing, which is a refreshing change – the garden is not seen as a big burden as it once was.

“Gardens should be fun and shouldn’t be precious. Families with young children should be able to kick a ball and see bees on plants. Gardens also have other functions, like drying clothes.”

Water

Landscape designer Tom Massey and architect Je Ahn, who designed The WaterAid Garden, which featured flood and drought-resilient plants to adapt to a changing climate, agreed with Duff.

“There are so many gardens here dealing with sustainable water management, including The WaterAid Garden, which is really all about rainwater harvesting.

“In this country, we had a lot of flooding this winter and in previous summers we have had 40 degrees Celsius heat and drought. So even here, in the UK, this is something we should all be thinking about. It’s really important,” said Massey.

Trees

The power of trees can sometimes be overlooked, especially how they adapt to climate change. Bonsai, the Japanese art of growing and shaping miniature trees in containers, was also featured at the show.

“We’ve seen a huge increase in people getting into bonsai. If you are suffering from depression or any other mental health issues, this helps you become extroverted instead of introverted,” said amateur grower Nick Payne from The Bonsai Boys.

“When I’m working with my trees, I completely forget about everything. A lot of these trees are pretty old and you can carry them around. They are fed, pruned and looked after very well.”

Gentle gardening

‘Gentle gardening’ is a term Massey used to describe another trend to better support biodiversity.

“Planting that is designed for pollinators and insects. So I think a looser and more gentle approach to gardening, one that is more in tune with nature and moves away from the very clipped, formal and sterile landscapes that maybe we would have seen 10 years ago,” he said.

“This requires less chemical use, being more patient, not demanding perfection immediately, just being a bit more relaxed in the way we approach our gardening.

It’s also about having the right plant and knowing the right location to plant them, Ahn added.

“That’s a really important message. After Covid, more people started to buy house plants and are learning more about how to properly take care of them.

“But people just need to do a little more reading, make use of social media, the enormous amount of resources the RHS have or even work with a professional.”

Growing your own food

Garden designers and passionate growers Lucy Hutchings and Kate Cotterill, who founded their heirloom seed company She Grows Veg in June 2023, have tried their best to get rid of the gardening jargon, avoid using the Latin names and anything else that can put people off from growing their own food.

“Growing your own food can be straightforward,” said Hutchings. “You don’t need a big garden, and can literally sprinkle some lettuce seeds in a pot and leave it by the windowsill. And if it doesn’t work or dies, it really doesn’t matter, just have another go. It’s about taking out the fear of failure.

ABOVE

Kate Cotterrill | Jonathan Brady/PA

LEFT

Fruit and veg seeds from She Grows Veg | Jonathan Brady/PA

“People have become a lot more conscious of where their food comes from, especially young people. They care and want to know that it hasn’t had too much impact on the planet as well.

“For these reasons, they’ve also realised that they don’t have much control when you buy food from a shop. But if you grow it yourself, you know exactly what happens to it, it’s from nothing but love and you can taste the difference. You know it’s massively nutrient-packed.

“With anything grown, as soon as it’s picked, the nutritional levels start to decrease, so if you pick a fruit or vegetable from your garden or windowsill – wherever you grow it – you can eat it almost straight away and it’s so much better for you.

“People love anything that’s brightly coloured, which has the highest level of nutrients in it. This allows you to eat other things you wouldn’t usually see in the supermarket aisle. Swiss chard is a great example of

this, it’s a bit like spinach with a big fat stem, lasts for pretty much a year and it doesn’t die in the winter – a brilliant one for beginner gardeners.”

Colourful plants

A variety of summer plants were used throughout RHS Chelsea, which could mean an increase in colourful plants in gardens untill September, including the tall yet familiar Foxglove – also known as Digitalis – and perennials, which featured in many different designs.

“The subtle use of planting colours is a nod to people’s desire to feel more immersed in nature and be part of their countryside. I think there is a link to interiors too, which are becoming bolder and brighter, and often gardens would go the opposite way,” said Duff.

Words by Yolanthe Fawehinmi, PA

BELOW

Fruit and veg seeds from She Grows Veg | Jonathan Brady/PA

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UNLEASHING YOUR GARDEN’S POTENTIAL

Expert advice from David Lee, Garden & Landscape Designer

Expert advice from David Lee, Garden & Landscape Designer

“I can’t imagine or know what Think about what you want from your garden. What will you do in it? How will the planting and the style you want work with the style of the architecture? And don’t be afraid to change and remove old and tired plants. Thoughtful planting can

Many people say to me. “I can’t imagine or know what to do with my garden.” Think about what you want from your garden. What will you do in it? How will the planting and the style you want work with the style of the architecture? And don’t be afraid to change and remove old and tired plants. Thoughtful planting can radically change a tired garden.

With over 25 years of experience in the Horticulture and Landscaping sector, including designing gardens for country houses and wedding venues, I have cultivated a deep expertise and passion for designing and enhancing outdoor spaces. Throughout my career, I’ve seamlessly blended intellectual knowledge of gardens and architecture. As a Freelance Gardener, Landscaper, Estate Manager/Head Gardener, and University Lecturer in Horticulture and Garden Design, I’ve honed my skills in crafting breathtaking

Serving Dorset, Hampshire, and the New Forest, I specialise in creating high-quality gardens. My services encompass everything from designing new garden concepts to revitalising tired spaces with creative planting schemes. I tailor my designs to reflect each client’s preferences and the architectural style of their property, ensuring a perfect fit every time.

From comprehensive consultation to meticulous installation and aftercare services, I am dedicated to delivering stunning outdoor environments that exceed expectations. Whether it’s a small urban garden or a large estate, I bring a wealth of experience and a commitment to excellence to every project.

T. 07921 586622 | E. info@davidleedesign.co.uk www.davidleedesign.co.uk

With over 25 years of experience in the Horticulture and Landscaping sector, including designing gardens for country houses and wedding venues, I have cultivated a deep expertise and passion for designing and enhancing outdoor spaces. Throughout my career, I’ve seamlessly blended intellectual knowledge of gardens and architecture. As a Freelance Gardener, Landscaper, Estate Manager/Head Gardener, and University Lecturer in Horticulture and Garden Design, I’ve honed my skills in crafting breathtaking landscapes across England and France.

Serving Dorset, Hampshire, and the New Forest, I specialise in creating high-quality gardens. My services encompass everything from designing new garden concepts to revitalising tired spaces with creative planting schemes. I tailor my designs to reflect each client’s preferences and the architectural style of their property, ensuring a perfect fit every time.

From comprehensive consultation to meticulous installation and aftercare services, I am dedicated to delivering stunning outdoor environments that exceed expectations. Whether it’s a small urban garden or a large estate, I bring a wealth of experience and a commitment to excellence to every project.

MOTORING NEWS

Mark Slack tells us the latest news on all things motoring.

CONCOURS SHOWCASES

TAILORING AND SOME OF THE MOST AMAZING CARS EVER BUILT

Londoners and visitors from around the UK and the rest of the world flocked to visit the first day of Concours on Savile Row on the 22nd of May at London’s famous tailoring street.

Over 50 cars and bikes were on display, from rare classics to modern high-performance motors and fully electric vehicles.

The Callum Skye, the first own brand vehicle fully developed in-house by the British design and engineering business CALLUM, was unveiled to the public for the first time at the concours, displayed outside Edward Sexton’s tailoring store. Famed designer Ian Callum was present with his creation. The pioneering, high-performance, all-wheel-drive, multiterrain electric vehicle was announced in November 2023 to global critical acclaim.

LG6 Rapide, owned by Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts. Exhibited outside Huntsman his suits were on display inside the tailors.

A personal discussion about Charlie Watts took place in the Huntsman lounge. It was hosted by renowned automotive expert Simon Taylor, along with Dario Carnera, Head Cutter at Huntsman, and Paul Sexton, author of the official Charlie Watts biography.

H. Huntsman & Sons, and Hagerty Insurance, presented a unique insight into a rock legend with the 1939 Lagonda The event was opened by Robert Rigby, Right Worshipful Lord Mayor of Westminster, who said: “It is a great honour to be here today, at my first outdoor event as Lord Mayor. Concours on Savile Row showcases both tailoring and automobiles and I would like to thank the manufacturers, partners and car owners who have joined us and the tailors of Savile Row to display some of the most amazing cars ever built.”

Watts’ Lagonda had not been seen in over 40 years. This model of Lagonda was one of very few machines able to exceed 100mph prior to World War Two – which ended production of the LG6 Rapide, leaving this car one of only six ever produced.

Also, a replica of John Lennon’s RollsRoyce-Phantom V, which was regularly seen outside Apple at 3 Savile Row in the 1960s, was hosted by Daniel Hanson.

TOYOTA GR86 – ULTIMATELY IT WORKS BECAUSE OF THE DRIVING EXPERIENCE

When you think of sportscars, sports coupes or any performance car come to that, then Toyota is probably not an obvious name that springs to mind. However, it deserves more prominence as a look at their back catalogue shows a rather decent smattering of performance Toyotas.

Think Supra, MR2, Celica, 2000GT and the Corolla Coupe GT, GT86 and right up to date with the latest Supra and arguably the GR Yaris. One of the most eminently sporting, and by today’s overly priced standards, particularly affordable GR86.

Priced from a whisker under £32,500 it comes with a horizontally opposed 4-cylinder, 2.4-litre, 16-valve that develops 231 bhp and passes the benchmark 62mph in just 6.3 seconds. That horizontally opposed engine design is courtesy of Subaru thanks to the joint venture that also created the Subaru BRZ, along with the GR86 predecessor the GT86. A 6-speed

manual gearbox drives the rear wheels, there is an auto transmission option but you really wouldn’t want it in this proper old school sports coupe.

The GR86 is a handsome looking machine and while in my care attracted admiring comment from all who saw it. Sadly you’ll struggle to find one as the limited availability meant the initial cars sold out immediately and new stock has been thin on the showroom floor. Whether it’s safety rulings, emissions legislation or the myriad of other governmental

requirements on the motor industry, cars like the GR86 are a dying breed.

It’s a shame because this is a car that provides proper old fashioned fun and actually has to be driven rather than merely kept between the white lines. This is a car that’s nowhere near the automotive white goods description that befits so many models these days.

Externally its design is a sports car silhouette that has evoked motoring enjoyment and dreams for decades, think of the Capri, the Porsche 924, 944 and even 928 and, dare I mention it, the Jaguar E-Type fixed head. The long bonnet, the rearward placing of the cabin and the lift back rear is a classic design.

The interior is not quite such a success being functional rather than luxurious or a lesson in design. Ultimately though that doesn’t matter because it works, what does matter is the driving experience.

FORD MUSTANG MACH-E – A SPARK OF

EV INTEREST

If you ask most people about the Ford Mustang it will inevitably evoke memories of the iconic Ford featured in the film Bullitt. A very American muscle car. However, there’s been a new kind of Mustang prowling the roads in the shape of the all-electric Mach-E. With prices starting from £43,330 it’s a very affordable, by EV standards, way of driving an interesting EV in a world where the term automotive white goods seems increasingly apt.

Three Mach-E models are available in standard or extended range; rear-wheeldrive, all-wheel-drive dual motor and a performance GT version. In Premium, Rearwheel-drive form, which was my test model, there’s 294PS on tap and the 0 - 62 mph benchmark passes in just 7 seconds. There are three drive modes available including a full fat untamed mode.

A genuine all-rounder that can cover longer journeys or urban commutes it’s remarkably practical. As ever the big question with an EV is range. The Mach-E Premium (£59,380) model will cover 372 miles in combined driving, depending on conditions, but as ever needs to be viewed sensibly. Urban driving invariably means more braking so regenerative energy helps battery charging and hence range. On faster roads such as a dual carriageway or motorway the range doesn’t hold up quite so well. As with MPG figures it’s unlikely you’ll achieve it, but the Mach-E certainly provides more range confidence than many EVs I have driven.

The Mach-E comes very well equipped even at entry level and my Premium version came with performance seats, wireless

phone charging, adaptive cruise, auto lights and wipers, high beam assist, heated front seats and steering wheel, power adjustable front seats, rear privacy glass, rear view and 360 degree camera, full panoramic glass roof, hands-free tailgate and Bang & Olufsen sound system. Phew!

A large central screen offers most control functions and being Ford it is quite intuitive, if you have to go digital then Ford generally make life easier.

With the number of EVs growing the Mach-E certainly falls into the interesting category, not always a given in this sector. It’s comfortable and a superb drive whether in normal or untamed mode. My only problem, despite almost universal positives, is that the build quality doesn’t quite live up to that high price tag. It just doesn’t have that certain something that makes a car feel premium. Look at the entry level Mach-E though and it makes a hugely more appealing proposition.

ISUZU D-MAX

V-CROSS – SMART, TRENDY AND EVEN COOL

Most pick-up trucks now look rather trendy, smart and even cool, competing with SUVs as an urban trendsetter vehicles. Most, it has to be said, don’t look like they’ve spent much time in the local building supplies yard or farm. However with new, more adventurous colour schemes, extensive equipment lists and accessories they can, and do, cut a dash in the style stakes with the best SUVs.

Manufacturers realised that they were missing a trick that a pick-up with good levels of standard equipment and a variety of optional hard tops and accessories appeals to a whole new range of potential buyers. Add in the possibility of all-wheeldrive and the chance to carry 5 people, as well as a decent load bay and towing ability, and the appeal is obvious.

Isuzu have long been a ‘go to’ manufacturer for those wanting a comfortable, rugged and stylish pick-up and compete well with the ubiquitous Toyota Hilux.

It’s noticeable that you seem to see equal numbers of Isuzu to Hilux, maybe even more. The D-Max has a standout style, in a good way, especially with paint finishes such as Biarritz blue, Valencia orange and Spinel red. Sadly my V-Cross test model was in grey!

Good standard equipment with excellent accessory packs and options means the Isuzu D-Max range can cover every scenario from building site to trendy wine bar. The range is essentially split into two halves, the business line-up and the V-Cross and Artic

models along with single, extended and double cab options. Prices start at £23,149 and peak at £47,999.

Power comes from a 4-cylicinder 1.9-ltre turbo diesel that propels the Isuzu well for such a large vehicle, it’s an easy drive and can be piloted through bends with much more aplomb than might be expected. Pick-ups are never the most refined but the D-Max does get rather vocal under acceleration, not helped one suspects by the modest engine size.

The build quality and equipment in the D-Max is excellent, and betters some cars, with an interior that lacks the ‘bolton iPad’ style touchscreen in favour of a neat built-in screen. Soft-touch materials are also evident and although some of the touchscreen functions look a little dated they all work very smoothly. If you’re looking for something a bit different on the rugged transport front then the D-Max can be a surprisingly sensible choice.

Big electric performance, in a compact SUV - the fully-electric Volvo EX30.

Starting from just £33,795, the Volvo EX30 presents an exciting opportunity for those seeking to own this outstanding vehicle.

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- Up to 298 miles electric range - Google built-in

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AUDI A3 BLACK - SPORTING CREDENTIALS AND CLASSIC SALOON STYLE IN COMPACT FORM

There are few companies that build saloon cars in the traditional sense, such is the dominance of the SUV that even estate cars are few and far between nowadays. One company that still builds fine examples of both is Audi. Their A3 model is a perfect example of a compact saloon that looks both classy and stylish along with a suitably sporting drive.

However, that classy and stylish look might not be upheld to some people if you had an A3 in Python Yellow, to say it’s bright is somewhat of an understatement. That said the bright colour with black badging does make a statement compared to the myriad of muted tones that seem to adorn most cars there days.

The A3 saloon range starts from £30,080 and encompasses a wide range of trim levels, body styles and equipment. Engine options of 1.5-litre in two power outputs along with a 2.0-litre diesel are offered with both manual and automatic transmission. High performance S3 and RS3 models offer larger, twin-turbo engines.

Standard equipment across the range includes sports front seats, powered, heated and folding door mirrors, auto dimming door and rear view mirrors, trizone climate control, navigation, wireless phone charging, Apple Car Play and Android Auto. Various packs provide additional choice from powered front seats and panoramic sunroof to adaptive cruise control and matrix LED headlights.

Mention must be made of Audi’s confusing and frankly illogical naming of engines, you don’t get the engine size but power,

and then it doesn’t seem to correspond to the actual power. For example my Black Edition 35 TFSI S tronic has an engine that develops 150PS, so where’s the 35 come in? Thankfully this apparent illogicality doesn’t translate to the car.

Priced at £38,260 the Black Edition models are adorned with more sporting looks, yet with a 0 to 62mph time of 8.6 seconds the performance isn’t exactly lacking either.

On the road the Audi’s typically firm ride still manages to soak up the bumps and potholes and handling wise it’s a delight.

The S tronic gearbox provides smooth and responsive changes making for an all together enjoyable drive.

If you think being a saloon hampers the practicality, well not as much as you might imagine. A trip to the garden centre saw two largish bags of compost and a couple of planters fit in the boot.

All told the A3 offers a terrific choice of sporting credentials and classic saloon style in compact form.

SUBARU SOLTERRA – A DIFFICULT TASK WELL DONE

For a company that has built a reputation on providing cars with character, slightly left field, sporting and with go anywhere capability, then EVs are perhaps not such good news. A lot of the more affordable EVs tend to be quite workaday, automotive white goods for a purpose rather than fun.

Subaru is one of a few companies that faced this issue and having launched their first EV they’ve taken a safe route in teaming up with Toyota in developing the BZ4X and Subaru’s own offering, the Solterra. The name combines the Latin words for sun and earth, which is far more imaginative than the BZ4X name.

At first glance there’s little bar some subtle styling changes to differentiate the two cars, but under the skin there are differences. The Subaru only comes in dual motor, permanent all-wheel-drive form, including hill descent control. Well it is a Subaru! This does provide a more interesting drive in my view and in addition to comfort the handling provides for enjoyment across more interesting cross-country roads.

Standard fare on the Solterra is excellent with the lead-in Limited model including items such as surround parking cameras, power tailgate, auto lights and wipers, main beam assist and power fold mirrors. The higher trim Touring gains a panoramic roof, wireless phone charging, faux leather upholstery and a Harmon Kardon premium sound system,

Inside it’s rather plain and despite the Peugeotesque steering wheel that sits below the instrument panel – normally you look through the wheel to the instruments – it all works well with nice clear instrumentation.

Some cars a colour sensitive and the Subaru is arguably looks classier and its presence amplified in darker colours. I happened to park adjacent a Toyota BZ4X yet it was the dark Blue Solterra that drew the attention.

On the road the performance is, as with most EVs, rapid with the benchmark 62 mph reached in a whisker under 7 seconds. The range is perhaps not quite so impressive when you consider the Subaru is priced from £52,495. The official range of 288 miles would, as with all EVs, be less in the real world, and in winter as batteries do not like the cold. That said the Solterra does come with a heat pump as standard to help matters along.

For a first EV Subaru will to some have lost the character that has been its hallmark. I hope many others will see that Subaru has completed an almost impossible task with more than a degree of success.

Wassmuffin Martial Arts Academy;

Sweat your way to a leaner, fitter, more confident you!

Wassmuffin Mixed Martial Arts Gym is widely known to hold the reputation of friendliest MMA gym in town. With a vibe that’s not been paralleled they welcome all levels and all ages.

There’s something there for everyone whether your looking to learn a new skill, get fit, self defence, build confidence, get strong, make new friends, lose weight, add to your social life, or possibly even learn some new dance moves – this is the gym to be at.

We have classes in Thai boxing, bootcamp, boxing and MMA. Mixed classes, ladies only, kids (age 4-9) and juniors (9-15).

Classes are held early mornings, lunch times, evenings and weekends. With six experienced coaches all with a different vibe and style of teaching means there really is something to suit everyone.

The only regret our clients have had is they didn’t start sooner!

We have hundreds of 5-star reviews, and the main comments that come up time and time again are how we feel like one big family, and the fun we have while training hard.

Our new client deal enables you to try 30 days for £30! As well as student membership for £40! And a child membership for £40! Along with sibling and family deals there’s no reason not to try. It could be one of the best choices you ever made.

Wassmuffin Mixed Martial Arts Academy,

for BH postcodes during June*

DELICIOUS MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE

La-Mia’s Mediterranean style tapas and cocktail bar, o ers a range of delicious, fresh tapas and enticing cocktails crafted in one of the oldest Victorian Warehouses on historic Poole Quay. La Mia’s prides itself on creating a friendly, fun, intimate atmosphere with lots of attention to detail. So whether you are looking to enjoy a deliciously crafted cocktail or tapas elevated in presentation and taste, La-Mia’s will be sure to satisfy your cravings.

RIGHT AT THE HEART OF POOLE QUAY

HENNINGS WHARF | THE QUAY | POOLE | BH15 1GZ

01202 072831 / 072832 | la-mias.co.uk

SANGRIA SHARER SUNDAY

30th June, 1pm

£30 per person

WITH SPECIAL GUEST

Bournemouth’s one and only DJ ‘Martyn The Hat’ playing Mediterranean & Baleric Vibes

School’s out Best Day Out

15th July 4.15pm

Child, £18.50 | Adult, £20

In conjunction with City Cruises, enjoy a 70-minute cruise followed by food and entertainment at La Mia’s

Seafood and Sounds

14th & 15th September

Enjoy and amazing weekend where Poole’s seafood heritage and great music come together. Visit the daily Produce and Gift Market located inside La Mia’s

BREAKFAST | LUNCH | DINNER | COCKTAILS | SPECIAL EVENTS

Open Monday - Saturday, 9am - 10pm; Sunday 9am - late

*Terms and conditions apply. O er ends 30th June 2024. Proof of address must be provided.

Reviewed

La Mia’s

A culinary adventure awaits

Nestled in the heart of the Poole, La Mias is a family-run Mediterranean-style restaurant that offers a delightful dining experience. Specialising in small plate dining, they bring the rich flavors of the Mediterranean to your table using the finest produce and fresh seafood. Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely meal with friends or an exclusive wine selection to complement your food, La Mias promises a culinary adventure that caters to all tastes.

La Mia’s offers a culinary experience that captures the essence of a buzzing holiday vibe. Located in a picturesque setting, this restaurant has become a favourite for locals and visitors alike, providing a delightful escape with its vibrant atmosphere and mouthwatering dishes.

We embraced out gastronomic journey at La Mia’s by ordering a selection of tapas dishes, with so much to choose from we happily took recommendations from the friendly team members helping us put together our delicious feast! The Baba Ganoush and Aioli, served with fresh bread, were a delightful start. The Baba Ganoush, a smoky eggplant dip, had a rich, creamy texture that paired perfectly with the robust and garlicky Aioli. The fresh bread, warm and crusty, was the ideal vessel for these luscious spreads.

Next on our tasting adventure was the whipped feta with truffled honey & toasted pine nuts. This dish was a revelation, combining the tangy creaminess of the feta with the sweet, earthy notes of truffled honey. The toasted pine nuts added a delightful crunch, making each bite a harmonious blend of textures and flavours.

The mature cheddar cheese soufflé finished with double cream was another standout. Light and airy, the soufflé had a deep, cheesy flavour that was both comforting and sophisticated. The double cream added an extra layer of indulgence, making this dish a true highlight.

A refreshing contrast was provided by the burrata with torched peaches, basil & tomatoes which was a firm favourite amongst us. The creamy burrata, with its delicate flavour, was beautifully complemented by the sweetness of the torched peaches and the fresh basil and tomatoes. This dish was a perfect embodiment of summer, bursting with vibrant colours and flavours.

One of the most decadent dishes we tried was the baked camembert spiked with garlic & rosemary, topped with red onion chutney. The Camembert, baked to gooey perfection, was infused with the aromatic flavours of garlic and rosemary. The red onion chutney added a sweet and tangy dimension, making it a luxurious treat.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, the patatas bravas were a must-try. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these potatoes were served with a spicy tomato

sauce that had just the right amount of heat. Alongside, we enjoyed the Koffman’s fries, which were perfectly seasoned and incredibly addictive.

Seafood lovers would be remiss not to try the garlic king prawns with fresh parsley. The prawns were succulent and cooked to perfection, swimming in a garlicky, buttery sauce that was simply irresistible. The fresh parsley added a touch of brightness to this rich dish.

For a heartier option, the four Aberdeen Angus meatballs arrabbiata were a hit. The meatballs, tender and flavourful, were served in an arrabbiata sauce that was both fiery and deeply satisfying. Equally impressive were the pork cheeks, slow braised with bean & sausage cassoulet. The pork cheeks were melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the bean and sausage cassoulet provided a hearty, comforting base.

La Mia’s delivers a dining experience that is both relaxed and sophisticated, with dishes that are thoughtfully prepared and bursting with flavour. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal or a special night out, this restaurant is a must-visit, offering a little slice of holiday bliss with every bite.

To book a table call 01202 072831.

Quayside, Hennings Wharf, The Quay, Poole BH15 1GZ

www.la-mias.co.uk

The secret behind Elegant Clinic’s popularity for Botox

Why Botox seekers are o ing to Elegant Clinic in Canford Cli s

Elegant Medical Aesthetics in Canford Cli s has quickly become the premier destination for those seeking toptier beauty treatments, particularly Botox, thanks to their reputation for delivering natural, flawless results. This clinic’s rise in popularity can be attributed to several key factors that distinguish it from other aesthetics providers in the area.

Firstly, the expertise and professionalism of the practitioners at Elegant Medical Aesthetics are unmatched. Each member of the team is highly trained, with extensive experience in administering Botox and other beauty treatments. This ensures that clients receive the highest standard of care, tailored to their unique needs and preferences. The practitioners’ keen eye for detail and commitment to natural aesthetics means that clients leave the clinic looking refreshed and youthful, without the “overdone” appearance that can sometimes result from these procedures.

All treatments with code HOUSE20*

What truly sets Elegant Medical Aesthetics apart is their dedication to achieving a natural look. Their approach is subtle and sophisticated, focusing on enhancing clients’ existing features rather than drastically altering them. This philosophy resonates with many clients who desire to look like the best version of themselves, leading to a high level of satisfaction and a loyal customer base.

In addition to their exceptional treatment outcomes, Elegant Medical Aesthetics o ers a unique membership club that provides substantial added value to their clients. By joining this exclusive club, members can enjoy significant discounts on a wide range of treatments, including Botox, dermal fillers, and skin rejuvenation procedures. The membership also includes special perks such as priority booking, access to member-only events, and personalized treatment plans designed to maintain optimal results over time. This membership model not only enhances client satisfaction but also fosters a sense of community and loyalty.

Another testament to the clinic’s excellence is the number of clients who have switched to Elegant Medical Aesthetics from other clinics. Many individuals, initially dissatisfied with the results or service at other providers, have found a new home at Elegant Medical Aesthetics. These clients often cite the superior quality of care, the natural results, and the comprehensive membership benefits as key reasons for their decision to switch.

In summary, Elegant Medical Aesthetics in Canford Cli s has earned its reputation as the go-to clinic for Botox and beauty treatments due to their commitment to natural, high-quality results, a highly skilled team, and an innovative membership program that o ers exceptional value. Their growing client base, drawn from other aesthetics providers, underscores their status as leaders in the field of medical aesthetics. Whether you are new to beauty treatments or seeking a better experience, Elegant Medical Aesthetics is the ultimate destination for achieving a refreshed, elegant appearance.

Start your journey with beauty and confidence today at Elegant Clinic, call us on 01202 096884 www.elegantclinic.co.uk

*Terms and conditions apply. This discount code cannot be used in conjunction with any other o er. Valid until 1st August 2024.

MEMBERSHIP Coming soon!

FIND

MEMBERSHIP ONE: (FREE Express Facial OR 2 area waxing of choice)

3 areas of Botox ×3 yearly Deposit: £300

12 Monthly payment: £50

Botox 3 areas ×4 yearly Deposit: £300

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We are excited to announce that we are launching Elegant Clinic Membership with exclusive discounts and event access.

MEMBERSHIP TWO: Smooth and Glow Club (FREE Vitamin Boost Jab ×2 yearly)

3 areas of Botox ×3 yearly 6× Profhilo treatments Deposit: £600

12 Monthly payments: £175

Also included: 10 % OFF all aesthetic treatments 50% OFF all beauty & massages | £50 OFF a new treatment

For further information contact: Natasha & Shik on 07716 818848 or email natasha@elegantclinic.co.uk

Move over Italian and French food – Greek cuisine is having a moment

Food writer Georgina Hayden tells Prudence Wade about why her food philosophy is ‘Greekish’.

French and Italian cuisines have long dominated the food landscape.

Greek food doesn’t traditionally have quite the same reputation, and while food writer Georgina Hayden is well aware of the stereotypes, that’s something she’s keen on changing.

“For a very long time, Greek food was just seen as kebabs, meat on sticks – which is delicious, we love a kebab, don’t get me wrong. But at the same time, that’s all it was – quite greasy, dirty food,” Hayden says.

For Greek-Cypriot Hayden, who lives in London, Greek food hasn’t been afforded the same range as other European cuisines.

“I’ve thought a lot about why Italian food is elevated. Italian food can be very every day, but you have very fancy Italian restaurants –and Italian holidays are very special, aren’t they? But for a long time, you had Greek package holidays – and there’s nothing wrong with that.

“But I think the reason Greek food was misunderstood for a long time, is because I grew up in an era of Teletext Holidays and cheap holidays.”

Hayden, 41, suggests Greece became associated with budget holidays – and

while the locations might have been beautiful, the strips and accommodations didn’t necessarily reflect that, and that reputation carried over to food.

But now, there’s something of a change happening. “Greek foods are having a real moment,” Hayden, who worked with Jamie Oliver for over a decade, adds.

“We’re definitely seeing an influx of really high-end – again, it’s not that I need or want food to be posh or fancy. It’s just having a

spectrum and a range – if you want to have high end-Greek, now you can. If you want middle and cheaper, you can.”

While she accepts that Greek cuisine loves “our grills and our meat”, she says: “This isn’t the only thing… We love lentils, a lot of pulses, a lot of vegetables and salads. Actually, dare I say, if you’re vegetarian, you would be laughing if you went to Greece, you would have such a range of things you could eat there.”

So if you were to start cooking a bit more Greek food at home, where should you start?

Hayden’s new cookbook, Greekish, has a chapter dedicated to ‘things on sticks’, and for her, this is a great jumping off point. These recipes do very much what they say on the tin – you spear some kind of protein on a stick, be it meat, fish or something like mushrooms, and make a “cracking marinade” to go with it, served with pita bread from the supermarket.

And for Hayden, ‘Greekish’ is the best way to describe her food. “It works on a lot of levels, in the fact that the food is Greek-inspired, as opposed to incredibly authentic,” she notes, which is different to her previous two cookbooks – the last, Nistisima, putting the spotlight on food eaten by Orthodox people during Lent.

Greekish by Georgina Hayden | Bloomsbury/PA

This time round, “They’re Greek recipes, but they’re my recipes,” she says. “So there’s an ‘ish’ to them. No one could argue that it might not be the way their granny makes, or the way their mum makes it – that’s where the ‘ish’ comes from.

“But there’s also lots of other ways that it becomes relevant – the fact that I’m Greek Cypriot. Cyprus is a divided island, so the food that I’ve grown up with spans both Greek and Cyprus. I’m Greek, Cypriot – the food is kind of ‘ish’.

“So there’s a looseness that comes with being from this island that’s quite far away from the mainland.”

Plus, the book is dedicated to her two daughters, Persephone, six, and Elektra, three. “They are ‘Greekish’, they’re half me – Greek Cypriot – and they’re half their dad, who is English-Irish. It’s that second generation, mish-mash of cultures that

I think we’re seeing now through a lot of food writers, but also certainly the way I cook and live my life. It’s all becoming a nice amalgamation of different cuisines and cultures.”

Few dishes sum up Hayden’s ethos better than the baklava cheesecake. “People are familiar with baklava, they know cheesecake – but we put the two together,” she explains.

“I know there are variations out there and I’m not the first to make it, but my version is a bit different – there’s a whole pack of feta in the filling, which gives this really delicious, salty-sweet [taste].”

When Hayden served this cheesecake up to her 83-year-old yia yia (her grandmother), she got the best feedback possible.

“I sliced it and gave her the first slice and she stared at it very intently… She looked at me and she was shaking her head, which means she had nothing to say to me. Not one bad thing to say to me – and that’s a very rare occurrence,” Hayden remembers.

“The reason I remember it so clearly is because I’m not convinced it’s ever happened otherwise – trust me, my family will definitely tell me everything they think about everything. No one could tell me my baklava cheesecake isn’t good, because my yia yia has spoken.”

And because she’s not drawing on traditional dishes, Hayden’s a bit more nervous about releasing this cookbook into the world.

“Relying on tradition or existing recipes, a lot of the time that can make your life easier, to be honest, because you are referring to things that you’ve read elsewhere or you’ve learned elsewhere. So this one is me in all my glory out there, just waiting for the attack really – it’s like I’ve got nothing to hide behind, which is scary but also really exhilarating.”

Words by PrudenceW

the page for this

Greekish: Everyday Recipes With Greek Roots by Georgina Hayden is published by Bloomsbury, priced £26. Photography by Laura Edwards.

ABOVE

Turn

grilled halloumi with apricots recipe from Greekish by Georgina Hayden | Laura Edwards/PA

ABOVE

Georgina Hayden | Laura Edwards/PA

Laura Edwards/PA

INGREDIENTS

8 lamb chops

2 garlic cloves

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

1tsp ground cumin

1tsp ground coriander

Olive oil

2 lemons

2 shallots

2 green chillies

A few sprigs of mint

30g pistachios or almonds

200g houmous, shop-bought or homemade

INGREDIENTS

1 x 250g piece of halloumi

Olive oil

4 apricots

2tbsp honey

A few sprigs of oregano or thyme

Spiced lamb chops with houmous SERVES

4

1. Place the lamb chops in a mixing bowl or dish and crush in the garlic. Season well and add the ground cumin and coriander. Pour in enough olive oil to coat and squeeze in the juice of one lemon. Really massage the flavours into the chops, then cover and leave to marinate in the fridge for as long as you can, bringing it out 20 minutes before you want to cook. If you don’t have much time, just leave to one side on the kitchen counter for at least five minutes.

2. While the lamb is marinating, peel and finely slice the shallots. Place in a small bowl with the juice of the remaining lemon and a good pinch of salt. Halve, deseed and finely slice the chillies. Toss through the lemony shallots. Pick the mint leaves and roughly chop. Finely chop the pistachios, then set aside. Spoon the houmous out on a serving plate.

3. Place a griddle pan on a high heat and get it hot. Grill the lamb chops for about four minutes on each side, this will give you just-blushing lamb. You can cook them for less or more time depending on your taste. I like to finish by propping them up on the fatty side to get it crisp (this was always my mum’s favourite bit). You don’t want to crowd the pan, so you might need to do this in two batches; if so, rest the cooked chops in a very low oven while you cook the others.

4. As soon as all the chops are ready, place them on top of the houmous. Toss the mint through the shallot mixture and scatter over the top with the pistachios.

Grilled halloumi with apricots

SERVES 2-4

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high. Carefully score the top of your halloumi in a criss-cross pattern – don’t cut too deep, you want to keep it intact. Rub the cheese with olive oil, in between the cuts, too. Halve the apricots, remove the stones, and halve again into quarters.

2. Place the halloumi in a snug dish (ideally metal) and nestle around the apricots, drizzling them with olive oil, too.

3. Pop under the grill, not too close, and grill for eight to 10 minutes, so that the fruit starts to caramelise and the halloumi is tender and charred on top. The success of this recipe depends on having the right distance from the grill and heat, so check a few minutes into cooking and see if you need to raise the temperature or lower the grill bars. It’s quite a forgiving technique, so take your time and see what works with your grill.

4. When the halloumi is ready, drizzle with honey and scatter over the thyme or oregano. Serve immediately.

Laura Edwards/PA

Chocolate party cake

SERVES 12

INGREDIENTS

375g caster sugar

1 cinnamon stick

50ml brandy

125g unsalted butter, plus extra for the tray

250g dark and milk chocolate

(I like half and half)

3 large eggs

175g plain flour

75g cocoa powder

1tsp baking powder

½tsp bicarbonate of soda

½tsp fine sea salt

200ml whole milk

250ml double cream

Sprinkles or fruit (optional)

1. Place 175 grams of the caster sugar in a small saucepan with the cinnamon stick, brandy and 150 millilitres of water. Bring to the boil over a medium heat, then simmer for 5 minutes until syrupy. Leave to cool.

2. Preheat your oven to 190°C/170°C fan/gas mark 5. Grease a deep 30cm x 20cm tray. Melt the butter in a small pan or microwave. Finely chop the chocolate, then set aside. Place the eggs in the bowl of a stand mixer and whisk on a medium speed with the remaining 200 grams of caster sugar. After a minute, increase the speed to high and whisk for four minutes, until pale and voluminous.

3. Meanwhile, in a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the plain flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda and fine sea salt. When the eggs are ready, whisk in the milk and melted butter, then fold in the dry ingredients and 50 grams of the chopped chocolate. Pour the batter into the prepared tray and bake in the oven for 25–30 minutes, or until just cooked through. When a skewer inserted into the cake comes out clean, it is done. Remove from the oven and poke holes all over the sponge and evenly drizzle over the cooled syrup. Leave the cake to cool in the tin.

4. To make the ganache, place the remaining 200 grams of chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Heat the double cream until it is hot, but not boiling. Immediately pour the cream over the chocolate, leave for 30 seconds, then slowly stir until smooth. Leave to cool for 10 minutes then spread over the cake. Serve as it is or topped with sprinkles or fruit.

Laura Edwards/PA

What’s on IN JUNE

With a vibrant mix of countryside, beaches and attractions, there is always plenty to do in Dorset & Hampshire. Here is a selection of events happening across the counties over the coming weeks.

POOLE PRIDE:

LIFE’S A CABARET

08 JUNE

A joyful celebration of the beautiful identities of our LGBTQ+ community, the first ever Poole Pride will bring a splash of rainbow colour to Lighthouse with an open invitation to come as you are and embrace a full day and night of inclusive entertainment.

With performances and exhibitions in various venues throughout Lighthouse, a stellar ticketed evening concert and after-show party in the Concert Hall are preceded by free activities and entertainment in the Concert Hall – Pop’n’Olly’s Storytime and Crafts – as well as the Gallery and Outside Theatre.

LIGHTHOUSE, POOLE www.lighthousepoole.co.uk

COUNTRY CHALLENGE

21 JUNE

Country Challenge, the fundraiser in aid of Dorset’s disability charity Diverse Abilities, has returned for its fifth year at Purbeck Shooting School near Wareham, and this year will be sponsored by Town and Country Communications & IT Solutions.

Get a team together and join them on Friday 21 June for a tournament that involves five different activities clay pigeon shooting, target rifles, archery, fly fishing and more.

Teams of four can enter from £550, which includes a bacon sandwich and lunch, and each activity will come with expert tuition to maximise chances of winning.

Find out more and sign up at diverseabilities. org.uk/country.

DIVERSE ABILITIES www.diverseabilities.org.uk/country

UPTON HOUSE FOOD & MUSIC FESTIVAL

14 - 16 JUNE

The three-day, family-friendly festival in the beautiful grounds of Upton House offers exceptional value as well as serving up a mouthwatering menu of top quality international street food from some of the region’s finest artisan producers. Add to that a winning side order of smash hits from UK tributes to superstars like Amy Winehouse, Queen, Foo Fighters, Stereophonics and, of course, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and you have a recipe for the best of times.

UPTON COUNTRY PARK www.uptonhousefoodandmusicfestival.com

WIMBORNE MINSTER FOLK FESTIVAL

07 - 09 JUNE

As is traditional, on the second weekend of June, Wimborne Minster will come alive with the annual Folk Festival as the streets, pubs and concert halls are filled with morris dancers, music – and much more! The Festival continues to grow and this year they have over sixty of both dance teams and musical acts to entertain visitors. Workshops demonstrating an eclectic variety of skills will be run during the festival, many for free.

WIMBORNE MINSTER www.wmff.co.uk

AN OFFICER AND A GENTLEMAN

25 - 29 JUNE

Be part of the emotional journey of Zack Mayo, a fearless young officer candidate, and the captivating Paula Pokrifki, whose fiery spirit matches his own. Their encounters ignite a spark that transcends boundaries, awakening a passionate love that defies all odds.

With every note, every step, and every heartfelt ballad, immerse yourself in this romantic masterpiece. Set to a smash-hit soundtrack, the power of music will carry you through the highs and lows of their extraordinary love story.

MAYFLOWER THEATRE

www.mayflower.org.uk

GRILL FEST

29 - 30 JUNE

Stewarts Garden Centre in Christchurch is getting set to host its inaugural ‘Grill Fest’, an opportunity to level up your outdoor cooking skills with guidance from the BBQ and pizza oven professionals, whilst enjoying some delectable samples from the outdoor cooking brands and many local food and drink companies!

The festival will take place on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th June, 11–4pm, in the garden centre’s back yard event space, and promises to be a fun-packed day of game-changing cooking methods, live music from local bands and musicians, plenty of free samples of sizzling grilled food, delicious drinks, mouth-watering pizzas and feasts cooked on firebowls!

Tickets are available online at www.stewarts.co.uk/ GrillFest and are priced at £20 for an Adult Ticket and £5 Kids Tickets (under 18s) Tickets are Half Price until 22nd June. Ticket sales are limited.

STEWARTS GARDEN CENTRE www.stewarts.co.uk/GrillFest

DORSET

ART WEEKS

25 MAY - 09 JUNE

VARIOUS VENUES

www.dorsetartweeks.co.uk

KITCHEN

GARDEN TOUR

05 JUNE - 03 JULY

KINGSTON LACY

www.nationaltrust.org.uk

EARLY MORNING YOGA AND BREAKFAST

05, 12, 19 & 26 JUNE

BROWNSEA ISLAND www.nationaltrust.org.uk

STRICTLY BULLEID II

07 - 09 JUNE

SWANAGE RAILWAY

www.swanagerailway.co.uk

HIGHCLIFFE

FOOD AND ARTS FESTIVAL

08 - 09 JUNE

HIGHCLIFFE highcliffefoodandartsfestival.co.uk

It

is time to TAKE A BREAK

Pop

ACROSS CRYPTIC CLUES

7. Sprain (6)

8. Illusion (6)

10. Chorus (7)

11. Competitor (5)

12. Cad (4)

13. Strike (5)

17. Sprite (5)

18. Network (4)

22. Clear (5)

23. U.S. lawman (7)

24. Profuse (6)

25. Thrifty (6) DOWN CRYPTIC CLUES

1. Dusky (7)

2. Bewilder (7)

3. Bitter (5)

4. Tingle (7)

5. Forego (5)

6. Distributed (5)

9. Hypnotise (9)

14. Sully (7)

15. Surround (7)

16. Prevaricate (7)

19. Charm (5)

20. Grub (5)

21. Cheerful (5)

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