House & Lifestyle | 269

Holiday lets made easy

Stallion Property Management are holiday let experts covering Bournemouth, Poole and surrounding areas. We take care of your holiday let and boost your rental income. Our pricing ranges from 18-24% for a fully managed service of your rental income depending on the circumstances of your property.

• Listing on multiple platforms

• Price optimisation

• Hassle-free service

• Guest vetting & communication

• Perfect pictures

• Maintenance & repairs

• 24/7 Check-in

• Cleaning

• Guest support

Stallion Property Management - Just WOW! I can’t recommend this company enough, I want to shout it from the rooftops, these guys, Ross and Gary, are absolutely brilliant, professional, dynamic, excellent communication, honest, amazing taste, patient and understanding.

TRACY, BOURNEMOUTH

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

Welcome

We’re embracing the en anting ir of autumn, letting s arm in ire every a e of our lives—from our interior yling to our seasonal recipe oices.

Soak in the beauty of autumn in your garden by creating your own dazzling leaf display as we discover which shrubs, trees, and vines o er the best explosion of colour. Bring those seasonal vibes into your home as we find ways to style the perfect autumnal colour palette. Interior designer Kelly Hoppen CBE speaks to us about her new design collaboration with Marks & Spencer, o ering styling tips and more. Stylish and sophisticated, a monochrome palette brings unmatched elegance to any home, and the Style Sisters show us how to strike just the right balance. We have mouth-watering recipes from Matt Tebbutt, who gives us his take on pub classics, and Nadiya Hussain shares her top tips for saving time in the kitchen! We also explore the vibrant allure of Marrakech, a thriving hub for art, culture, gourmet dining, and endless fun that’s captivating tourists worldwide!

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.

FOLLOW US

Facebook @housemagdorset

Twitter @House_Mag

Instagram @housemagazine_dorset

SUBSCRIBE

www.house-mag.co.uk

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

HANNE-LISE BASSON ACCOUNT MANAGER

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

18 MONOCHROME

How to work modern minimalism into your home

50 AUTUMN

How to style the perfect autumnal colour palette in the home

94 SUPERIOR FIRES

Transforming living spaces with media walls and electric fires

PROPERTY 28 SPENCERS NEW FOREST

Manor Farm Cottage, Burley

HOME IMPROVEMENT

38 GOOD ENERGY

Ordinary home turned eco-home

TRAVEL

42 CORNWALL

Avoid the crowds by taking a cosy

Cornish beach break in autumn

TALKING BUSINESS

47 COTTAGES

Unlocking holiday home potential FOOD & DRINK

READ ALL ABOUT IT

The latest news stories in your area.

POOLE PARK’S SMALL LAKE TO SHINE BRIGHT ON 19 TH OCTOBER AS LEWIS-MANNING HOSPICE CARE HOSTS ‘CANDLES ON THE LAKE’

Lewis-Manning Hospice Care is excited to announce the return of their popular annual event, ‘Candles on the Lake’, on 19th October. This year, the event will once again take place on the small lake near The Ark in Poole Park—a highlight of the community calendar that provides a unique opportunity to celebrate, remember, and reflect on loved ones in a serene and beautiful setting.

The whole community is invited to come together for this special evening. Participants can dedicate a message on a candle that will be floated on the lake, creating a magical and moving display of light and love.

Musical performances from The Boscombe Salvation Army Band and The Funky Little Choir will set a reflective and heartwarming tone for the evening, enhancing the

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

ambiance and making the event a truly memorable experience. Light refreshments will be available for all attendees.

Lewis-Manning Hospice Care Events Fundraiser, Anna DuRose comments, “A suggested donation of £6 per candle will directly support Lewis-Manning’s Bereavement and Family Support services, ensuring the continuation of vital support to those in need within the community.”

Lewis-Manning Hospice Care will also be hosting ‘Candles by the Sea’ at the Bandstand in Swanage on 26th October and ‘Candles on the Green’ at Wimborne Minster on 16th November.

Anyone wishing to take part is urged to pre order a candle at https://lewis-manning.org. uk/candles/ Candles will also be available to purchase on the evening of the event.

SANCTUARY RESIDENCY SUPPORTS EXCITING NEW THEATRE PROJECT

Finding a way to navigate the choppy waters of social media as a force for good is a quest for our age – one that Poole-based artist Dave Young is meeting head on.  It’s a subject dear to his heart. As a disabled poet, musician and filmmaker, Dave has performed as The Shouting Mute for some years, using specially adapted technology to create poems, songs and theatre, relying on social media to maintain connections with a wider creative community.

Having constituted The Shouting Mute as a community interest company (CIC) this year, he is now working with disabledled charity Diverse City on a new work, Social Media Meltdown, that highlights the positive power and potential dangers of social media based on real-life experiences.

“I formed The Shouting Mute as a CIC to help disabled people gain access to the cultural sector,” says Dave, who is working with director Eilis Davis from Diverse City, as well as Bournemouth-based musician Harry Bassett and a team of local actors and producers.  We believe that everyone should have a voice and be represented on stage and on screen. Working with young people on Social Media Meltdown during the research and development, allows me as a writer to listen and learn what young people are saying on the topic and deeply embed that into the creative process.”  Dave hopes to see Social Media Meltdown tour schools and theatres towards the end of next year.

THE SHOUTING MUTE www.theshoutingmute.com

TRETHOWANS SHORTLISTED AS FINALIST IN THE 2024 LEXISNEXIS FAMILY LAW AWARDS

Trethowans is pleased to announce that it has been shortlisted as a finalist in the prestigious LexisNexis Family Law Awards 2024. The firm has been recognised in the highly competitive category of Family Law Firm of the Year - South.

The LexisNexis Family Law Awards, now in their 13th year, are a key event in the family law calendar. The awards celebrate the exceptional contributions of family law professionals, highlighting their dedication and the role they play in society. This year’s ceremony will be held on Wednesday 20 November 2024, at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge in London, where the family law community will come together to celebrate the achievements of its members.

Being shortlisted for Family Law Firm of the Year - South is a testament to Trethowans’ commitment to providing exceptional legal services, supporting families, and upholding the highest standards of the profession. This recognition underscores the firm’s dedication to achieving the best outcomes for its clients in challenging circumstances.

For more information about the LexisNexis Family Law Awards 2024, please visit familylawawards.com.

TRETHOWANS

www.trethowans.com

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK AT MAYFLOWER

THEATRE STARRING ASHLEY BANJO AND

DIVERSITY, AND KEV ORKIAN

Britain’s Got Talent winners and street dance sensations Ashley Banjo and Diversity will return to lead this years cast as Jack and the Trot Family alongside awardwinning actor and stand-up comedian Kev Orkian as the comical Silly Simon, actress Anne Smith as the evil Mrs Blunderbore and west-end performers Matt Rixon as the hilarious Dame Trot, Jacqueline Hughes as the magical Spirit of the Beans and Lauren Hampton as the loveable Princess Jill.

For three weeks only, Jack and the Beanstalk will bring all the laughter, spectacle, special effects and glittering festive magic audiences have come to expect each year from Mayflower Theatre’s spectacular Christmas panto.

MAYFLOWER THEATRE www.mayflower.org.uk

Tickets for Jack and the Beanstalk (Saturday 14 December 2024 – Sunday 5 January 2025) are on sale from Mayflower Theatre Box Office tel: 02380 711811 or online at mayflower.org.uk

So, Fe-fi-fo-fum, It’s the panto you’ve bean waiting for!

‘THE CASTLE PANTRY’ TEA ROOMS GRAND REOPENING AT HIGHCLIFFE CASTLE

The newly refurbished ‘Castle Pantry’ Tea rooms at Highcliffe Castle officially launched at the end of August with a VIP grand reopening.

‘The Castle Pantry’ has been fully refurbished and is now serving a delicious menu featuring hot meals, traditional high tea, and delightful cream tea, available daily from 9 AM to 5 PM.

Adventure Attractions have taken over the running of the business and extensive renovations have been carried out to ensure ‘The Castle Pantry’ has a fresh new look, blending the charm of a traditional British tea room with modern comforts. Originally built in the 1950s for Claretian monks, the space was later transformed into public tea rooms in the late 20th century. Now, it stands ready to welcome guests into its warm, inviting atmosphere once again.

Chris Liddard, General Manager of ‘The Castle Pantry’ Tea Room expressed his gratitude for the community’s support, saying, “We have been incredibly happy with the response and warm welcome received so far and grateful to for everyone that came to the grand opening.”

Highcliffe Castle, known for its rich history and breathtaking scenery, continues to attract both local visitors and tourists.

Chris continued, “The Castle Pantry will also serve as a versatile venue for various events, from intimate gatherings to community functions. By collaborating with local suppliers like the award-winning Shelley’s Bakery, which was recently recognised as one of the top five bakers in BCP, the tea rooms ensure high-quality products for their patrons.”

GET CREATIVE

THIS CHRISTMAS

Diverse Abilities, Dorset’s Disability charity, is looking forward to hosting a number of creative Christmas events this year.

The festive event schedule kicks off with a Wreath Making Workshop on Wednesday, November 27 at The Beehive with step-bystep guidance from Academy of Floristry. Followed by a second Wreath Making Workshop on Saturday, November 30 at Langside School. If you fancy something a bit different, the charity is also hosting a Garland Workshop on Wednesday, 4 December.

This is a fantastic opportunity to create a beautiful wreath or garland ready to decorate your door, table or staircase at Christmas, with specialist tuition and a seasonal atmosphere. Tickets are £49.50 per person and include all materials to make the festive wreath.

There’s also something for the kids with Christmas Biscuit Workshops hosted by Maggie ‘The Seaside Baker’, a popular contestant from the Great British Bake Off. The workshops will take place on Sunday, December 1 at ‘Gather’ in the Dolphin Shopping Centre in Poole, with 3 sessions to choose from for £5 per person. Maggie will be baking the biscuits ahead of time, and the charity will provide everything needed to uniquely decorate the biscuits on the day.

For more information or to make a booking please email the The Castle Pantry manager@thecastlepantry.co.uk or call 01202 835838 THE CASTLE PANTRY www.highcliffecastle.co.uk

Visit diverseabilities.org.uk/events for more information and to book your tickets.

DIVERSE ABILITIES www.diverseabilities.org.uk

‘VALUABLE, REAL WORLD ROUTE INTO A CAREER IN TECHNICAL THEATRE’

Offering a wealth of hands on experience and the first steps into a technical career in the arts, applications are open again for Lighthouse Young Technicians, a nationally recognised training course for young people aged 13-19 eager to get to grips with lighting, sound and stage management in a variety of indoor and outdoor settings.

“Since its launch in 2018, the Young Technicians course has proven to be a valuable, real world route into a career in technical theatre,” says Charles Shenton, Lighthouse Creative Engagement Producer.

Guided by industry specialists in a structured 12-week course, the budding technicians navigate all elements of technical theatre to gain the experience they need to pursue a future career, working alongside all technical departments in the build up to opening night of Sleeping Beauty, this year’s in-house produced family pantomime.

LIGHTHOUSE, POOLE www.lighthousepoole.co.uk

“As a young person making your way in theatre, it is very important to do what is right for you,” says course tutor James Smith, Technical Director of Sleeping Beauty.

The course costs £150, although bursaries are available, and thanks to generous funding awarded by the D’Oyly Carte Charitable Trust, Lighthouse is now in the position to offer more bursary spaces than ever before.

“Cost should never be a barrier to accessing the arts and there are very few courses like this available in this country,” adds James. “The students get lots of hands-on experience and, crucially, it’s real world training in a working multi-venue arts facility working on shows and events indoors and outdoors.”

Applications are open now until Friday 11 October. To find out more email learning@ lighthousepoole.co.uk.

EIGHT NEW RECRUITS JOIN SAFFERY APPRENTICESHIP SCHEME FOR ACCOUNTANTS

Eight new recruits have joined Saffery in Bournemouth as part of their Apprenticeship scheme for accountants.

Staff partner Casidhe Baleri said, “It’s brilliant to have the diversity and mix of school leavers and graduates joining our apprenticeship scheme, which grows in strength, year on year.

“We are extremely proud to continue our investment in the Bournemouth Office and develop new generations of specialists to support our client base.

“It’s great to be recruiting some excellent talent from our local BCP Schools and regional universities. Our outreach to local schools’ career departments is obviously working and we’ve worked hard to ensure that students are aware of professional careers and opportunities. We are proud to welcome the next crop of talent into our Saffery team and family.”

SAFFERY www.saffery.com

An

WESTBOURNE

A

A

WESTBOURNE

An

SUMMER’S FOR FUN, AUTUMN’S FOR SELLING...

Speak to an agent today so you can relax this summer, confident that Winkworth is looking after your property for when the market really heats up.

SPRINGFIELD CRESENT | £750,000

NEW INSTRUCTION. Set in an elevated plot with views over the rooftops of Lower Parkstone to Poole Harbour and the Purbeck Hills beyond, is this spacious 2 double bedroom bungalow, with no forward chain, and o ering huge potential for extension and development (subject to planning). Further bene ts from gas central heating, double glazing, o road parking and single garage, set at road level, then steps up to the bungalow. The property has been greatly loved by the family who have enjoyed the wonderful views, secluded gardens, and location, being walking distance to Ashley Cross. SOLE AGENT!

HATHERDEN AVENUE, POOLE | £825,000

NEW INSTRUCTION. A charming 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom family home, set in a quiet cul de sac location with delightful, well established gardens, garage and sold vacant with no onward chain. This extended home has a very practical layout and potential for extension (subject to planning) and further o ering a tted kitchen with integrated appliances, conservatory, integrated garage, tted study/bedroom 4, spacious bathroom and further shower room and Delightful, extremely private 75’ garden to include a large patio. SOLE AGENT

EVERING AVENUE, POOLE | OFFERS IN EXCESS OF £700,000

NEW INSTRUCTION. A detached family home o ering 5 double bedrooms, plus a 2 bedroom annex. The home has been extended and extensively renovated with accommodation approaching 2500 sq. ft within a landscaped plot with direct gated access to the Bourne Valley Nature Reserve. The home is ideal as a split living residence for two families to share, a home and income property, or for a large family. The property includes a stunning kitchen/dining/ day room with roof garden, a master suite with luxury ensuite bathroom. The 2 bedroom selfcontained annex can be approached internally or from a separate side entrance.

Monochrome: How to work modern minimalism into your home

Style Si ers show us how bla and wh e interiors rike ju the right balance.

Stylish and sophisticated, when it comes to a chic colour palette, you can’t beat the brilliance of monochrome in the home.

From the Art Deco movement to Coco Chanel’s passion for black and white, to today’s catwalk – it was one of the biggest spring/summer 2024 fashion trends – these classic shades are a cut above.

And with more than 45,000 #monochromeinteriors Instagram posts dedicated to the monochromatic aesthetic, it’s little wonder we love the luxe, minimalist appeal of pairing neutrals with varying tones of charcoal and all-black for a bold silhouette.

For celebrity home organisers and stylists, Gemma Lilly and Charlotte Reddington – aka the Style Sisters –monochrome is a much-loved, signature palette.

Best friends and business partners, the duo have always been drawn to this classic colour base, both in their homes and wardrobes… and are now marking a new chapter with their first Tesco homeware range, inspired by their love of monochrome.

Here they share their top tips to imbibe the trend…

RIGHT

Loren Armchair, Champagne Classic Velvet, £299.99, Furniture Choice | Furniture Choice/PA

Why monochrome?

“We love the simplicity and clean lines created when decorating rooms with a monochrome interior design scheme.

“It offers a look that’s timeless and elegant, while also creating a sense of clutter-free calm,” says Charlotte Reddington, co-founder, Style Sisters.

“Our homes are important spaces for us to relax, unwind and spend time with loved ones – the contrast of using black and white in one space creates crisp, clean lines and a contemporary feel.”

As Reddington highlights, life outside our front doors can be hectic – filled with noise, sounds and colours, especially if you live in a city.

“No matter which room this scheme is used in, we’ve seen time and again how it can create a feeling of simplicity and warmth, transforming once-cluttered spaces into stylish harmony.”

LEFT

Charlotte Reddington (sitting), Gemma Lilly (standing), Style Sisters, with their new Tesco homeware range

| Alexander Edwards Photography/PA

BELOW

Inga Cushion, £48, Design Vintage | Design Vintage/PA

Monochrome misconceptions…

“There’s often a misconception that decorating with black and white can make rooms feel cold and professional,” underlines Reddington.

“But this is far from true when the right pieces and textures are used.” She says texture is key, from woven knitted cushions to natural wood, velvet and ceramic to name a few. “Using a mix of texture adds interest and depth, adding a layer of softness and warmth. Soft accessories can help to introduce playful patterns, for another dimension to the overall feel of the room.”

Furthermore, she says a monochrome base for walls and furniture allows you to introduce different textures and colours over time. “You can easily adapt a neutral backdrop with accessories and wall art, meaning your home can transition naturally with your style over time.”

Meet minimaluxe monochrome

“An Insta-worthy trend that started to gain momentum at the end of last year, we feel this perfectly highlights how the use of neutral, muted colours in homes is far from beige and boring,” emphasises Gemma Lilly, the other half of the styling and organising duo. “Decluttering your home is step one to achieving this look.”

While a maximalist home is a mix of bold patterns, bright colours and walls and bookshelves filled with books and decorative items, notes Lilly, the minimaluxe one champions the less-is-more approach.

“Clever hidden storage is key, to ensure items have a home but are out of sight – adding storage boxes in keeping with the overall design scheme can stop shelves and cupboards becoming messy.”

Regular detoxes will avoid rooms and surfaces becoming built up, suggests Lilly. “Stop the cluttercreep by taking a little-and-often approach – it will make the world of difference to keeping spaces pared-back.”

She continues: “Comfort is key for minimaluxe style. Creating a feeling of luxe can be achieved through textures, but this doesn’t have to mean a luxury budget.

“There are plenty of amazing soft furnishings, boucle chairs, velvet cushions and more at high-street retailers and supermarkets, offering designer looks without the price tags.”

Styling with scent

Home fragrance sets the mood and tone of your space…

Fragrant candles and diffusers can uplift, relax and promote wellbeing. Moreover, depending on the vessel and design, they make a stylish statement for a boutique hotel vibe.

LEFT

RIGHT

Romford Cream & Black Abstract Lamp, £79, Rowen Homes | Rowen Homes/PA

OHS Bouclé Storage Hairpin Stool – Black, £21 (was £25), OHA | Online Home Shop/PA

RIGHT

Style Sisters Tesco range: Debossed Ceramic Candle, Vibe, £10, (220g); Cedar & Oakwood Candle, £25 (1.5kg); Cedar & Oakwood Diffuser £20, (400ml) Tesco in-store | Alexander Edwards Photography/PA

BELOW

“The scent choice is one consideration, but the design of your diffuser or candle also makes an impact,” states Reddington. “Elevate a coffee table with an oversized candle and add elegant diffusers to hallway consoles and bathroom ledges.”

For monochrome interiors, she says a moody, woody scent is a good choice for cosy evenings at home; while fresh, zesty fragrances can help refresh and revitalise.

“Boutique hotels and spas play on scent-styling well, and they promote feelings of comfort relaxation – it’s a simple but very effective styling tip that can often get overlooked,” adds Reddington.

The Style Sisters’ Tesco homeware range includes items priced from £5 to £25, and is available now in 200 stores across the UK. For your nearest store, visit Tesco.com.

For more expert tips and tricks, follow @stylesisters on Instagram

Words by Sam Wylie-Harris

Solitary Palm Tree Print, Black & White Palm Photograph –Framed, from £49 (left); Solo Surfing Print, Black & White Beach Photograph – Framed, from £49.00, Beach House Art | Beach House Art/PA

Boo at the Zoo

There will be plenty of treats at Marwell Zoo this October half-term as they embrace all things autumn with a series of spooky delights.

From Saturday October 26 to Thursday October 31, Lowedolf, Marwell’s resident wizard will be teaching little ghouls, ghosts and witches how to fly a broomstick like a pro in our dedicated broomstick flying area.

Children will be taught in groups of 15 and those who successfully complete the course will be awarded with their level one broomstick flying badge.

Don’t worry if you don’t have time to sort a costume before you arrive, their face painters will be on hand to transform your little pumpkins on the day.

Facepainting will be available from 11am to 3pm at an additional cost of £5 per face and broomstick flying is £3 per child.

If their flying course doesn’t get you warmed up enough, the firepits will be up and running with marshmallows and s’mores kits available – additional cost applies.

Café Graze will be keeping everyone well fuelled with pumpkin spiced lattes, Halloween cupcakes and pumpkin soup.

Plus, guests can still take advantage of their five for £85 family ticket offer up until 3 November. Full terms and conditions are available on the website.

With five adventure playgrounds, more than 140 species of rare and endangered animals and 140 acres of park to explore there’s plenty for the whole family.

They recommend downloading the free Marwell Zoo app before you visit so that you can see when our animals are going to be fed. The app also has an interactive map and tools to help plan your day and gives lots of extra animal facts and information.

Don’t forget, every visit to the zoo helps support their conservation work, both in the UK and around the world and helps care for their resident animals.

Charity, Marwell Wildlife, owns and operates Marwell Zoo, which is home to a number of spooky species including vampire crabs, pink salmon tarantula, Yellow throated frogs and royal pythons.

The zoo is also home to giraffes, penguins, tamarins, pygmy hippos, rhinoceros and all three species of zebra.

For a full list of animals and to book your tickets visit www.marwell.org.uk.

• Deluxe Real Logs

• Dark Rear Glass

• Anti-Reflective Front Glass

• LEDs-only option

• Variety of install options

• Amazing heat distribution

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.

These spooky serves are tailored to costume dramas, says Sam Wylie-Harris.

When it comes to fright night tipples and delving into the dark side, Halloween parties and an evening of nocturnal naughtiness deserves a screaming good drinks list to tie-in with your fancy dress.

To help you raise the bar and set the scene for some good-hearted skulduggery, these tipples have trick-ortreat written all over them…

SILENT POOL PUMPGIN SPICE COCKTAIL

Pumpkin spice and all things nice… this seasonal gin cocktail with Silent Pool Gin (£42.50, 70cl, Silent Pool), is sure to sharpen your palate with its pumpkin flavours and subtle spice…

INGREDIENTS

50ml gin, 25ml lemon juice, 15ml pumpkin spice syrup, 10ml sugar syrup.

METHOD

Half-fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the ingredients, shake vigorously and strain into a chilled Nick & Nora Glass.

Crafty cocktails for a howling Halloween

PATRÓN EL DIABLO

Terrifyingly thirsty? Take Patrón Silver Tequila (£46.50, 70cl, Tesco) and spice up the Blue Weber agave with the fiery heat of ginger beer to make a Halloween reaper grin…

INGREDIENTS

45ml tequila, 30ml fresh lime juice, 30ml ginger beer, 7.5ml crème de cassis, lime wedge for garnish.

METHOD

Half-fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the tequilia, lime juice and crème de cassis, shake vigorously and strain into a Collins glass filled with ice. Top with ginger beer and drizzle a little cassis over the top, garnish with a lemon wedge.

CRYSTAL HEAD BONE BLOODY MARY

A new release, Crystal Head Vodka Bone, (£48.99, 70cl, Backtomine) is the perfect incarnation of a ghostly skull in bone white – and will look brilliantly ghoulish sat alongside a carved out Jack-O’-Lantern…

Here’s their blood-curdling recipe to capture the spirit…

INGREDIENTS

50ml vodka, 10ml fino sherry, 15ml fresh lemon juice, 150ml tomato juice, spice mix (Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco, rock salt, black pepper, Sriracha), Tajin Mexican Chilli and Lime salt rim.

METHOD

Half-fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the vodka, sherry, lemon juice and spice mix. Shake vigorously and strain into a highball glass garnished with a Tajin rim and filled with ice. Top with tomato juice, garnish with an olive, dried thyme sprigs and a lemon wedge.

Patron El Diablo cocktail | Patron Tequila/PA

LEFT

Crystal Head Bone Bloody Mary cocktail | Crystal Head Vodka/PA

Manor Farm Cottage, Burley, New Forest

An exceptional country home whi has recently been extended to an extremely high eci cation.

Manor Farm Cottage features interiors designed for luxurious 21st century living, generous accommodation spanning three floors, beautiful grounds and gardens with additional acreage and a large storage barn. The property is ideally located within the highly sought after village of Burley and sits within a secluded plot which benefits from elevated views of the surrounding countryside and direct forest access.

Upon arrival, a sweeping shingle driveway leads to the front of the property, providing ample o -road parking and access to the double garage. A generous lawned area, bordered by mature trees, sets the tone for this idyllic home, welcoming visitors to the front entrance. Steps lead up to a charming timber-framed covered porch, which opens into a spacious reception hallway. The bespoke staircase, a stunning feature

of the hallway, provides access to the lower ground and first floors, adding to the home’s sense of grandeur.

The sitting room is a standout space, stretching over 20 feet and o ering triple aspect views of the stunning gardens. This light-filled room is ideal for relaxation, with ample space for gatherings around the fire on cooler evenings. However, the heart of the home is undoubtedly the expansive kitchen/dining room. Meticulously extended to create a vast living and entertaining space, this room is flooded with natural light from broad bi-fold doors and a generous roof lantern. The kitchen combines elegance with

functionality, featuring herringbone flooring, high-quality appliances, a large island with an induction hob, and ample storage, including a full-height larder cupboard and separate fridge and freezer.

The first floor houses the principal bedroom suite, a luxurious retreat with triple aspect views and a private balcony overlooking the garden. It includes bespoke dressing units leading to a spacious ensuite shower room. Two additional double bedrooms o er built-in storage, and each has access to its own bathroom, with the second bedroom enjoying a private balcony.

The lower ground floor is an adaptable space perfect for multi-generational living or guest accommodation, featuring two further double bedrooms with ensuite use. A large storage barn completes the o ering, making Manor Farm Cottage the ideal country retreat that combines luxury, space, and endless potential.

bathrooms and a separate kitchenette/ utility area. The garden room, with French doors opening onto a private patio, adds a secluded living space.

Outside, the property’s 0.82-acre garden wraps around the house, o ering impressive al fresco dining and entertaining areas. A further 3 acres of paddock land surround the garden, providing endless possibilities, from a private meadow to equestrian

BURLEY, NEW FOREST

For those seeking more land for equestrian use, potential buyers have the unique opportunity to purchase Manor Farm Cottage with an additional 14 acres of grazing land, expanding the total acreage to approximately 17 acres. Located just across from the driveway, this extensive tract of land o ers endless possibilities, from equestrian use to creating a private haven for livestock or simply enjoying expansive, uninterrupted views of the countryside.

The larger plot is available for purchase at £3,700,000, making it an attractive proposition for buyers seeking a more substantial estate and space.

HOUSE WITH 3.82 ACRES

Guide Price £2,950,000

HOUSE WITH 17 ACRES

Guide Price £3,700,000

Lisle Court Road, Lymington

Kitwalls Lane, Milford on Sea

rare opportunity to purchase arguably one of the most beautiful cottages in the New

across open fields.

Arguably

A rare opportunity to purchase arguably one of the most beautiful cottages in the New Forest. The property is in excellent condition throughout and

from a substantial outbuilding, landscaped

and stunning uninterrupted views across open fields.

Avon Castle, Ringwood

Castle Hill Lane, Burley

Kelly Hoppen CBE: ‘Accessorising your home is like putting jewellery on when you get dressed’

The interior designer speaks to Sam Wylie-Harris about her new design collaboration with Marks & Spencer, styling tips and more.

The multi-award-winning designer Kelly Hoppen is famous for her signature neutral palette – taupes, beiges, blacks and creams, greys and whites – which have graced some of the most famous celebrity homes and hotels in the world.

“Whether it’s in Middle East, America or Asia, each one is very different, and it’s exciting,” highlights Hoppen.

With a wide array of projects on the go, she says it’s about understanding the philosophy of how people live, what your client wants, and then creating a story.

“So it’s not just a bedroom. It’s creating a backdrop, like in a theatre.” She continues, “My job is to create the backdrop for people to live.”

Today, at 65, with a career spanning 47 years, having conquered the world of luxurious interiors, she’s launching an exclusive home design collaboration with Marks & Spencer. “I’m beside myself,” enthuses Hoppen. “It’s about to be seen, having worked on it for a year-and-a-half in secret, which is not easy for a Leo!”

“With the Marks & Spencer collection, it’s my dream. To give people the tools to be able to do things in their home – it works easily, and can be mixed with different pieces of furniture because it’s neutral enough.”

M&S x Kelly Hoppen: Sateen Bedset, from £99; Bedspread, £149; Bolster Cushions, £22.50 each; Pendant Light, £59, Marks & Spencer | Marks & Spencer/PA

RIGHT

Hoppen reveals it’s been a lot of work, with four more collections under way. “I’m really happy about it, and something I’ve wanted to do for a long time. The price range is fantastic, and the quality is good.”

She continues: “When you get to know someone, you’re designing something; or if you’re doing a hotel room, you’re imagining how people will use it.

“So it’s got to be practical, but it’s got to be ‘the dream’. It’s got to have lovely textures so you melt into them… there are so many different layers and factors.”

Influenced by luxury living, within the 75-piece collection she describes as “affordable”, Hoppen wanted to create something “with beautiful bedding, cushions, vases, lighting, throws, curtains and small pieces of furniture – with all the accessories that go with it.”

“It’s about making people’s home feel luxurious in their own way. Everybody wants to have a beautiful home, but to have affordable luxury was something that I felt wasn’t really out there.”

In her own words: “It’s very much a classic Kelly Hoppen.”

As well as numerous decos inspired by clean lines and curves for a timelessly elegant look, in true five-star hotel style, a high level of comfort is part of the aesthetic.

“When people think about their bedrooms, the bed is the largest piece of furniture. So if you can dress the bed and make it look beautiful with lovely, soft fabrics, that’s half the battle in a bedroom.”

Then you can look at your lighting, suggests Hoppen. Maybe do a feature wall behind the bed, or reupholster your headboard, and then she says it’s all the little bits you put with it. “Whether it’s a little candle holder to one of the vases, or a beautiful glass vase dish, or whatever’s in the collection that catches your eye.”

ABOVE

Kelly Hoppen CBE with pieces from M&S x Kelly Hoppen exclusive homeware design range | Marks & Spencer/PA

“I always say accessorising your home is like putting your jewellery on when you get dressed… it’s jewellery for the home.”

The designer who lives in London with her partner – who she fondly calls ‘The Fox’ – says when designing your home, texture is all important, but it’s not only soft texture.

“So you’ve done your bed, you’ve got your lovely throw, you’ve got your cushions, you’ve got your art up, then you need some hard texture.

“It’s the same with cooking. You’re adding different tastes to create that stew you’re making. It’s not just the chicken with tomato.

“I know it’s a weird way of looking at it, but it’s the same when you’re creating a home, it’s a recipe, and you just keep adding things – and the different textures will make it feel much warmer.”

And with her confidence-boosting, best-selling interior books to help create a Hoppen home of your own, are these part of the hardware to make everything feel balanced?

“I always say to people, books are literally your best friend when you’re trying to accessorise. If you’ve got shelves and you’ve got books, lay them flat and then do them randomly. So you can put objects on them, creating more interest. On a coffee table, people get scared of what to put on them. If you’ve got a pile of books, put a candle so it’s slightly higher.”

She says you can then place a vase to the left. “Which is slightly lower, so it’s different heights on a coffee table. But as my partner says, you need to leave enough space to put a drink or cup of coffee.”

ABOVE

M&S x Kelly Hoppen: Large Ceramic Case, £35; (bottom shelf); Medium Ceramic Urn Vase, £19.50 (top shelf), other items from a selection, Marks & Spencer | Marks & Spencer/PA

LEFT

M&S x Kelly Hoppen: Throw, £35; Floor Lamp, £129, Marks & Spencer | Marks & Spencer/PA

Visually gorgeous, curvaceous vases feature among the M&S collection – with floral arrangements part of her signature style. “For me, any flowers are nice, just as long as they are one colour.”

With meticulous attention to detail, black and white photography is one of Hoppen’s passions. A case in point, she’ll soon be doing a masterclass on Instagram demonstrating how to frame and hang them. “Every mount should be white or cream, or grey or black, depending on the look or feel of your room, but I would go for white.”

If you have two really beautiful black and white photographs, she says to get a simple black frame and have them both exactly the same size on either side of the bed. “But if you’ve got a wall, say, across from your

bed, you could do a collage of different sizes; or it could be pictures of your family or kids. It’s the way it’s framed that’s important, so every frame should be the same.”

The new M&S x Kelly Hoppen exclusive homeware design range is available in M&S stores and online at marksandspencer.com

Words by Sam Wylie-Harris

BELOW

M&S x Kelly Hoppen: Ceramic Candle Holder, £5 (front); Ceramic Centre Piece, £19.50 (right); other items from a selection, Marks & Spencer| Marks & Spencer/PA

Ordinary home turned eco-home

Ri ard works for a national con ru ion company. In ired by the eco-facil ies they have built, he wanted to apply the same andards and te nolo es to his family home renovation.

Together with his wife, Rachel, he’s taken an ordinary 1960s home and turned it into an eco-home, heated by a Good Energy heat pump.

He shares his green home story with us.

What inspired you to build an eco-home?

We are very sustainably minded. When we landed here, caught the view and looked at the property- it just struck us that we could do something with it. We wanted the home to be sustainable and e icient, so getting rid of fossil fuels was a must. That’s why we got a heat pump.

How does your heat pump work alongside your other eco-upgrades to keep your home warm and e icient?

We’ve worked hard to make the building warm – using lots of insulation; and airtight by covering the walls in a vapour proof

membrane. To prevent moisture and mould, we’ve installed Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recovery throughout the house. As well as removing the moisture, this technology recovers the heat energy from the moist air, and pushes the warm dry air back through the house, providing ambient warmth.

The final step to getting a warm, e icient home was to install an air source heat pump – which captures heat energy from the outside air and transfers it to our underfloor heating and hot water tank using electricity.

Tell us about your heat pump installation Our heat pump installation took place over three days. We had no kitchen or bathroom at the time, and other trades were working in the home too. Good Energy communicated brilliantly, and worked well alongside other the other trades to make sure that their work was compatible with the plumbing and electrics elsewhere in the house.

Because our home is e ectively airtight, the Good Energy team were extremely careful with the fabric of the building while they were installing our air source heat pump.

They managed this by predetermining entry points into the home so that we could mitigate the impact to the airtightness.

What’s it like living with a heat pump?

From the minute the heating has gone on, we have had a comfortable environment in here with no glitches, which has been great!

I’ve been impressed with Good Energy’s after care too. After monitoring my heat pump’s performance remotely, they suggested some changes they could make to improve its e iciency. This involved remotely adjusting our heating curve to provide a more constant, lower level of heat – reducing our running costs without impacting our comfort at all.

Get a personalised heat pump estimate in just two minutes, visit heat.goodenergy.co.uk

Find out more about Good Energy heat pumps at goodenergy.co.uk

Avoid the crowds by taking a cosy Cornish beach break in autumn

Ella Pickover and her family visited the popular coastal resort as the seasons change.

‘Please be kind, watch us quietly and let us sleep,’ hikers are cautioned as they creep up to a craggy Cornish coastline where they can spot the largest colony of grey seals in the county.

The polite notice conjures images of large groups of tourists cramming shoulder-to-shoulder to get a glimpse of the marine mammals during the peak summer months when visitors descend on Cornwall en-masse. But there are only around six people ahead of our party as we head up the trail in Godrevy National Trust.

|

large colony of seals at Mutton Cove | Alamy/PA

ABOVE

Gwithian beach

Alamy/PA

After the group ahead of us depart, my family is left in solitude to watch the seals lounge on the beach at Mutton Cove, flanked by high cliffs and only accessible at low tide.

From the viewing point, we count more than two dozen seals in the bay below, the majority trying to catch 40 winks as the incoming tide laps at their tails. At times there can be up to 200, I’m later told.

Our private viewing of the seals highlights why autumn is one of the best times of year to visit Cornwall. Of course, the weather can be temperamental but even at the height of summer most tourists need to be armed with a brolly and a bottle of sun cream.

We’d started our three-mile walk from our holiday home at Three Mile Beach – a collection of upmarket holiday homes – in lashing rain, barely able to see a few metres

ahead as we stumbled along a soggy coastal path. But by the time we reached the headland at Godrevy, the sky was azure blue and the sun beamed down on the back of our necks.

Tearing ourselves away from the seals, we round the coastal path for a magnificent view of the Godrevy Lighthouse – the brilliant white 165-year-old building is said to have inspired Virginia Woolf’s novel ‘To The Lighthouse’ and it prompts us to share stories of Cornwall’s chequered history of smugglers.

During our visit to Cornwall, we stay at one newest editions to Three Mile Beach: a so-called beach shack. While the phrase evokes images of a tumbledown beach bar, the experience is quite the opposite, offering every element of luxury in a two-bedroom holiday cottage, perfect for couples, singletons or small families. Fourlegged friends are most welcome too.

An incredible amount of thought has been put into ensuring there’s everything a tourist could need in their home away from home – including an array of family games and a stash of beach items for a trip to the shore, which is situated just yards from the front door.

The collection of self-catering beach houses lies at the centre of a nature reserve and only a stone’s throw away from Gwithian Towans Beach, which forms part of the beautiful three-mile stretch of sand in St Ives Bay. The spot is popular with surfers due to its year-round swells.

My family and I book some surf lessons with an enthusiastic and patient teacher from Global Boarders Surf School. After two hours, we are self-proclaimed experts, but utterly exhausted, so take ourselves home for a much-deserved rest in our beach shack’s private sunken cedarwood hot tub, followed by a quick stint in the barrel sauna.

Making the most of the temperate weather, we book in for a pizza party in the evening. A pizza oven and hamper full of ingredients are delivered to our holiday

house. We turn our hand to the art of pizza making using a large selection of locally-sourced ingredients and pizza doughs from a nearby bakery.

For those who prefer easier dining options, there’s an excellent open-air restaurant on-site. Chomp offers a wide selection of delicious sharing dishes for families to pick and choose their own meals.

As the autumn evenings set in, the beach shack is kept wonderfully warm through a combination of an electric Everhot cooker and underfloor heating, with an option to turn up the heat even further with a log burner.

Three Mile Beach is a perfect base for exploring other parts of Cornwall including nearby St Ives and St Michael’s Mount.

ABOVE

Three Mile Beach has its own restaurant, Chomp, is open for guests and visitors of the nearby Gwithian Towans Beach | Three Mile Beach/PA

BELOW

Three Mile Beach self-catering beach shacks | Three Mile Beach/PA

Even in the quieter months, parking in the popular seaside resort of St Ives can be tricky so we choose to catch a train from St Erth. In the peak of summer, there is standing room only on short Great Western Railway journey, but we manage to get a window seat (on the right hand side of the train on the outward journey) giving us a delightful 11-minute ride along a scenic coastal route, with the impressive Godrevy lighthouse in the distance.

Summer in Britain’s holiday hotspot can include shoulder-rubbing with other visitors through the narrow streets, or clambering to find a spot on some of the nation’s most beautiful beaches. But as children return to school in September many disperse, though it’s still bustling with a second, smaller, wave of tourists.

We amble along the streets, stopping to watch Cornish fudge-makers at work and pasties being made in shop windows before the heavens open, prompting us to nip into the nearest cafe. Sky’s Diner is a delightful but unexpected stop and a perfect opportunity for us to have a pastie – we sample one vegan and one traditional steak pastie – which are both scrumptious.

On our return to St Erth we realise we are just five miles away from St Michael’s Mount – the tidal island crowned by a medieval church and castle which is accessible by

causeway during low tide or boat at high tide – so we hop in the car to inspect the iconic island for ourselves.

We arrive a little too late in the day to take a trip out to the beautiful landmark, instead deciding to venture out on the causeway as far as we can without getting our toes wet to get a closer look at the beautiful island.

On our last night in our home-from-home, we decide to do a spot of stargazing from the warmth of the hot tub. With very little light pollution, and the luck of a cloudfree evening, we can see the concentration of the Milky Way above our heads and spot a number of shooting stars stream across the night sky. It’s a perfect end to our wonderful Cornish getaway.

HOW TO PLAN YOUR TRIP

Prices start from £619 for three nights in a two-bedroom beach shack, based on four guests sharing, including welcome hamper. Visit threemilebeach.co.uk.

Words by Ella Pickover, PA

ABOVE

Gwithian beach | Alamy/PA

WELCOME TO TRAIN ELITE

Redefining strength through training, nutrition and community

With an incredible, supporting community of members, Train Elite, is a fully inclusive Bournemouth based gym, supporting men and women of all ages and all fitness levels to get fit and healthy and achieve their own personal goals. From 6am to 7pm 5 days a week, and with sessions on Saturday and Sunday, we offer a full programme of group classes, including HIIT, Pump, Boxing, Metafit, plus Stretch & Mobility and Yoga. We also offer specialist Strength & Conditioning sessions with our expert trainers, ensuring you achieve optimum results.

Our programmes are designed to progressively build strength, helping you burn fat, improve fitness and energy levels and support bone health, particularly important for women at menopause age. Alongside nutrition programmes, specially designed recipes books, and dietary support. Plus integrated wearable tech from MyZone.

Our community is second to none. Inclusive, welcoming, supportive and fun. Take up our offer of 3 free sessions, give us a try and meet some of our Train Elite family!

Unlocking holiday home potential

My name is Rob Hall and as a local resident, I take great pride in helping holiday homeowners in East Dorset and the New Forest transform their properties into profitable holiday lets.

Whether you’re struggling with an existing property or considering your first holiday let, I offer personalised advice and strategies to boost your income. I represent two of the UK’s biggest holiday let agencies: Cottages.com and Hoseasons.

Extensive marketing campaigns bring a high volume of holidaymakers to our websites, ensuring year-round bookings for your property. Last year, our site achieved over

one-and-a-half million bookings. Here are a few of my top tips to ensure your property stands out in a competitive market:

1. Invest in comfort: Never compromise on beds, linens, and towels. A good night’s sleep is crucial and can make or break a holiday.

2. Prioritise cleanliness: Guests should be greeted by the fresh scent of a clean home.

3. Adequate seating for all: Ensure there are enough seats in all shared and outdoor areas for all guests.

DORSET & HAMPSHIRE HOLIDAY LET EXPERT

BOOK IN YOUR FREE , NO OBLIGATION VALUATION

Discover the lucrative benefits of converting your property into a holiday let in the stunning areas of East Dorset and New Forest. My expert knowledge will ensure a seamless transition and maximum returns.

Why choose holiday lets? Higher income potential, flexible usage, and a booming tourism market. Let me help you make the most of your investment.

Contact me today to learn more about turning your property into a successful holiday let.

Rob Hall

Business Development Manager, East Dorset and New Forest

EMAIL. rob.hall@awaze.com

PHONE. 07889 723711

4. Partner with professionals: Working with an agent can streamline bookings, ensuring guests are well taken care of and providing you with a hassle-free experience.

5. Think like a guest: Anticipate needs like umbrellas, picnic baskets, or reading glasses by the bed. Small details show you care and enhance the guest experience.

As a local expert, I have lots more tips on how to help attract guests, I’m here to help you every step of the way. Please contact me directly if you would like to book in a visit or would like to discuss further.

How to style the perfect autumnal colour palette in the home

From toasted orange to grassy greens, put the focus on fall hues, says Sam Wylie-Harris.

With autumn comes a new dawn… the days shorten, the sun is lower, the leaves are turning – and it’s time to connect with nature for a seasonal vibe.

“When thinking about autumn, many people instantly go to darker colours like brown, burgundy and aubergine,” highlights interior designer and Interior Design Masters contestant, Molly Coath.

“But, for autumn 2024, it’s all about muted tones in a colourful palette – the beauty of following this trend is you won’t have to completely transform your home from the summer months.”

Living room painted in V&CO Yellow/Shade 1 | V&CO/PA

Bedroom painted in a toasted orange colour | @ danicamaewhite/PA

Clarissa Hulse Woodland Walk Bed Linen | Clarissa Hulse/PA

In fact, she says all you need to do is add some depth to a few wonderful shades you might already have in the home.

To help you put the focus on fall hues, Coath has teamed up with Tobie Lewis, paint and interiors expert from V&CO, to select the ultimate colour palette – and how to style these colours with ease and simplicity…

Smooth beige

A smooth, muted tone of beige is the perfect neutral base for an autumnal home, suggests Coath. A fresh yet subtle base layer, she says it can be used against lots of different fabrics and textures.

“Use this shade to ‘colour drench’ a hallway, creating a warm and inviting entrance to any home,” says Coath.

“Its natural tone works especially well with natural textures and soft shades of white, therefore it can also be paired with linen curtains and beautiful wicker furniture.

“Add a few decorative pumpkins and candles – and the entrance to your home will look completely transformed in a few simple steps.”

Toasted orange

Next on the autumn colour line-up is a toasted orange…

“Toasted orange is simply burnt orange’s subtle sibling,” underlines Coath. “It’s an incredibly versatile colour and has a gentle nod to traditional autumn colours, often inspired by nature, without being too harsh or direct.”

The shade has such depth and layers whilst still being fresh and crisp, explains Coath. “Much like an autumnal garden.”

She says to use a shade with toasty yellow undertones to make an enveloping and cosy colour you can layer up and be playful with.”

“It’s a luxuriously relaxing shade for a bedroom, and would also look wonderful in a kitchen, with natural and wood furnishings.”

Lights4Fun Antique White Pumpkin | Lights4Fun/PA

LEFT

Sunset orange

For a bolder choice in an autumnal colour palette, Coath says to go for a sunset-style orange with lots of warmth and depth.

“This shade looks particularly luxurious when paired with natural materials such as wood and rattan.

“As it sits so beautifully with natural textures, it also works as a gorgeous backdrop in front of house plants and foliage, helping you to bring the outdoors in.”

Use this type of colour for ceiling or patterned feature walls to add an eye-catching characteristic to any room, suggests Coath.

“The great thing about these orangey colours is they are the true basis for the perfect autumn-inspired palette, without overpowering the room with too many heavy tones.”

Grassy green

Green is a timeless colour in the home, and what’s really interesting in interiors, is when colours are beautifully and seamlessly woven into the home, outlines Coath.

“Going for a mid-level shade of green is the perfect way to do this. Understated and simple – it’s calming, punchy, soft and vibrant all in one colour.”

She says this is what makes it wonderful to work with as it matches different colours so well, as well as complementing other green shades.

Think smaller details such as a tiled backsplash, a photo frame, an upcycled side table or bathroom towels.

ABOVE

Walls painted in a sunset orange shade | @steviefrances/PA

LEFT

Wall painted in orangey colours | @katieellenh/PA

RIGHT

Bathroom painted in a grassy green colour | @inside_number_37/PA

Soft romantic red

As Coath points out, red is a difficult shade to style in the home, “but a very soft Moroccan red adds subtlety and warmth.”

“Use these colours in bigger furniture pieces like statement rugs, couches and bedding to create a focal point for the room that brings in the essence of autumn.

“These types of red have some soft pink hues included, so a great tip for styling these colours is to think of it as a pink rather than red.

“Anywhere you would like to have pink in the home, flip it to a super soft red for autumn.”

Words by Sam Wylie-Harris

ABOVE FurnitureChoice/PA | @thewrighthouse renovation/PA LEFT Furniture And Choice Salisbury Chairs | FurnitureChoice/PA

Quality Residential: Your trusted letting experts

Expert letting solutions for landlords and tenants in Bournemouth, Poole and Surrounding area

With over 30 years of experience in the property letting industry, Quality Residential is a leading name in Bournemouth and Poole. Known for their comprehensive service, the agency is dedicated to helping both landlords and tenants navigate the property market with ease. Whether you’re looking to rent out your home or find the perfect place to live, their friendly and professional team provides tailored solutions to meet every client’s needs.

Quality Residential o ers full property management services, ensuring landlords can trust their investment is in safe hands. Their in-depth knowledge of the local market, combined with their thorough tenant vetting process, ensures that properties are let quickly and e iciently, minimizing vacant periods. For tenants, they provide clear guidance and support throughout the rental process, from finding the right property to managing deposits.

A proud member of ARLA/Propertymark, Quality Residential adheres to the highest industry standards. They are dedicated to delivering peace of mind for landlords, ensuring all properties under management are well-maintained by a team of trusted contractors.

If you’re looking for an experienced team to manage your property or help you find the perfect rental home, Quality Residential is here to provide expert guidance every step of the way.

The art-filled riad reigniting the bohemian spirit of Marrakech

A year after an earthquake rocked Morocco’s history city, a new property is at the forefront of a revival.

Motorbikes growl and splutter as they swerve through narrow side streets. Donkeys laden with colourful fabrics bray and huddle in the shade. Above the noise and chaos, the muezzin’s soothing voice rings out from the minaret of the Koutoubia Mosque announcing the evening call to prayer.

There is never a quiet moment in Marrakech, Morocco’s enchanting, sense-spinning tourist city. But a year ago, this area of western Morocco was rocked to its foundations by a 6.8-magnitude earthquake. More than 2,900 people were killed and 5,500 injured in the natural disaster, which heavily impacted rural areas in the nearby Atlas Mountains and parts of the ancient city.

Twelve months on, the country is rebounding, and buildings are slowly being repaired. Tourist numbers are also recovering, a relief for the owners of IZZA who had the misfortune of opening just before the earthquake struck.

Located in a quieter northern section of the walled Medina, the cool, bohemian property has quickly gained attention for its striking design and commitment to community. Originally purchased by a tech-boom entrepreneur as a holiday home, it soon grew into a major hospitality project when neighbouring families offered to sell their properties – evidence of a growing trend for Moroccans seeking a new life in the modern parts of the city.

The pool at IZZA | IZZA Marrakech/PA

RIGHT

Named after the original Berber owner Izza, the riad became a paean to legendary interior designer Bill Willis, a fast-living, fun-loving maverick who masterminded projects for the likes of fashion designer Yves Saint-Laurent.

Mosaic tiled stairwells and statement fireplaces are inspired by his work, while photographs and letters documenting his life decorate the walls of Bill’s Bar (a nostalgic tribute to Rick’s Cafe in Casablanca and Humphrey Bogart’s famous hang-out in the Hollywood classic).

The result is a riad that’s become much more than a comfortable place to sleep. It’s a hub for for art, culture, gourmet dining and – above all – having fun.

Here’s the lowdown on what to expect…

Art and design

Creativity lies at the heart of IZZA. Presented as the Museum In The Medina, a £5million collection of 300 contemporary artworks are spread throughout the property, include the world’s largest physical collection of NFTs. Key highlights include photographic portraits of Moroccans by artist Leila Alaoui.

ABOVE

The Feature Wall at Bill Willis Bar | IZZA Marrakech/PA

LEFT

Les Marocains by Leila Alaoui in the IZZA Reception | IZZA Marrakech/PA

IZZA also supports local emerging artists through oneyear programmes, providing a space to create and display works and access to a wider audience.

A new boutique stocks bespoke pieces by local artisans.

The rooms

In a riad, no rooms are delightfully ever the same. But each of the 14 hideaways at IZZA – all named after socialites and creatives from the 1960s and 1970s – has its charm. Cosy Brion (named after artist and writer Brion Gysin) is tucked away at the end of a courtyard and has a tadelakt fireplace lit on cold winter nights; Grace (after model Grace Jones) has a vintage copper roll-top bath; and Marianne (a nod to musician Marianne Faithfull) is a sumptuous suite with a lounge area and private terrace.

Wooden doors can be locked with a heavy iron key, but in the family-style home there never feels like any need.

Shared spaces

As winding and labyrinthine as the layout of the nearby souk, the maze-like structure of the riad creates several inviting nooks and communal spaces.

Decorated in a mosaic of emerald zellige tiling – a heavenly colour associated with peace in Islam – the long pool is an inviting place to cool off after a dusty day of sightseeing.

A small spa offers massages and a hammam, while an air-conditioned gym has a treadmill, Peloton bike and rowing machine.

Dominated by a show-stopping fireplace, the library features a curated collection of books reflecting life in Morocco and the characters who have leant their names to rooms in the riad. Guests can borrow copies at their leisure – although all editions of 1001 Arabian Nights have mysteriously disappeared.

ABOVE

The Yves room at IZZA | IZZA Marrakech/PA

LEFT

The library at IZZA | IZZA Marrakech/PA

Food and drink

Rooftop spaces are precious in Marrakech, a cooling space to escape the heat of the day and watch a parade of pink hues illuminate the sky at dusk.

Breakfasts and evening meals – an excellent selection of mezze dishes – are served on IZZA’s top floor. Ingredients are all local: spices from the souk, meat from organic farms and fish from a sustainable supplier at the coast.

How to plan your trip

Rooms at IZZA start from €220/£185 per night including breakfast, airport transfer and a 45-minute massage. Visit izza.com.

Words by Sarah Marshall, PA

RIGHT

The terrace dining at IZZA | IZZA Marrakech/PA

BELOW

Souks of Marrakech | Alamy/PA

Going through a relationship breakdown can be an overwhelming and difficult time. Our specialist lawyers will help you understand your options to make informed decisions.

Divorce Financial Settlements

Cohabitation Agreements Child Custody Prenuptial Agreements

hklaw.uk

A Bournemouth T 01202 421111 E bournemouth@hklaw.uk

A Dorchester T 01305 251007 E dorchester@hklaw.uk

Stallion Property Management are holiday let experts covering Bournemouth, Poole and surrounding areas. We take care of your holiday let and boost your rental income. Our pricing ranges from 18-24% for a fully managed service of your rental income depending on the circumstances of your property.

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

b o a r d D o r

g a b i r t h d a y , o r e n t e r d o u r 1 9 3 8 v i n t a g e m o r g e t t a b l e o c c a s i o n f s o f f e r a u n i q u e v e n u f r i e n d s , s t a f f o r c l i e n b o a r d B B Q a n d m u l t e e d f o r t h e p e r f e c t p s e a r o u n d t h e i s l a n d

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

Care from the heart AT MAGNA

At Magna, we’re dedicated to providing exceptional care and support, ensuring every resident feels safe, valued, and encouraged to take part in activities they enjoy. What sets us apart is our commitment to creating an inclusive environment, where everyone is treated with kindness and respect.

We prioritise building meaningful relationships with our residents and their loved ones, ensuring that their well-being is paramount. Our compassionate team members go above and beyond to provide personalised care with empathy and companionship, making residents feel loved and respected.

Top tips for saving time in the kitchen by Nadiya Hussain 7

The Great British Bake Off winner dishes up time – and waste – saving tips that inspired her latest cookbook, Cook Once Eat Twice.

TV chef Nadiya Hussain may love cooking but she’s not about to spend more time in the kitchen at home than is absolutely necessary. Luckily, with a family of five, she’s had a lot of practice at finding new ways of stretching ingredients, being as efficient as possible – and using everything up.

“I grew up in an immigrant house, so we lived from wage to wage, and it was very much about saving, not wasting, and making the most of everything,” says the 39-yearold, born in Luton to British-Bangladeshi parents. “That’s not the case anymore for the next generation. There’s less survival and more thriving, so there’s less time to think about waste and how we use up ingredients,” she says. “And that is detrimental.”

The mum-of-three has already published a string of bestselling cookbooks since she won Great British Bake Off in 2015, and her latest Cook Once, Eat Twice, is a waste-less guide that shares tips and tricks on how to prepare dishes efficiently and economically – without compromising on flavour.

RIGHT

Nadiya Hussain | Chris Terry/PA

She’s hopeful the book – which details everything from clever ways to use leftovers, batch-cooking recipes and meal-prepping ideas – will serve as inspiration for those looking to be more active in this space.

“It’s a bit of hand holding,” says Hussain. “It’s just giving you the confidence and all the information to give it a go.

“What’s the worst that can happen? You’re going to end up with something to eat, so have fun with it.”

In that spirit, what are the TV chef’s top tips?

1. Go back to basics

Before pursuing somewhat trickier dishes, take it back to basics and start simple, advises Hussain. This means learning how to boil up rice, roast a chicken to perfection or dish up unrivaled mashed potatoes – all simple, yet essential recipes that can be made time and time again.

“Sometimes we overthink things, so [the first chapter] focuses on simple tricks like how to poach an egg,” Hussain explains

“Too much information overcomplicates everything, so it’s really important to learn how to cook things like rice, pesto, basic stuff that all of us just need to know how to make.”

2. Invest in the right tools

You’ve picked out the recipe, you’ve purchased the ingredients, but do you have the tools to get the job done?

It’s crucial to have a few quality staple kitchen essentials, warns Hussain. “As somebody who cooks for a living, I’ve constantly steered away from using fancy equipment, because that’s not how I cook. And that’s not what a domestic kitchen has.”

The right utensils will help you to get the most out of your time in the kitchen, she states, her favourites being a good kitchen knife, a rolling pin and a hand blender. “And then once you’ve got all of that, which a lot of us already have, it should feel more achievable.”

ABOVE

Nadiya Hussain’s banana peel curry recipe | Chris Terry/PA

3. Shop on a budget

If you’re looking to shop savvy, fridge organisation is key, reckons Hussain. She suggests arranging and labelling all ingredients in the fridge, freezer and cupboards, so that it is evident when something is running low, and therefore it needs to be added to your shopping list.

Once you’ve established what you need from your next shop, you can effectively meal plan and stay focused (or as much as possible) in the supermarket or when ordering online. Preparation is key.

4. Portion up leftovers

Nothing in your kitchen need be wasted, especially when it comes to the remnants of a successful family meal.

“One tip that I always give my kids is, sometimes you don’t have enough leftovers to serve up a second meal for the whole family, so have single portion containers in the house and pot up what is left,” Hussain says.

“What happens by the end of the month is I’ve got 1520 frozen single meals, and everyone gets to pick what they want to eat. One might want lasagne, one might

want curry, but it’s there to pop in the microwave. So never ever throw away a single meal.”

5. Implement a zero waste policy

Use your imagination when it comes to utilising food wastage, asks Hussain. There are certain ingredients that we, in the UK, throw out without a second thought (banana peel, for one), but this needn’t be the case.

Find a spot to keep your ‘waste’ for reinvention, she suggests: “I have a windowsill, and I just leave things there to dry all the time. I also have a scrap freezer drawer – I won’t chuck anything!

‘Things like clementine sugar, I always have a new batch. I leave [the peel] until it’s bone dry, and then I mix the powder with sugar, and it’s really delicious on bakes. Or when I do pastries, I love to top it with the orange sugar.”

ABOVE

Nadiya Hussain’s espresso chocolate cake recipe | Chris Terry/PA

6. Embrace easy bakes

Baking should feel as effortless as cooking, so perfect a few simple, long-storage-life recipes that won’t leave you flustered, Hussain recommends.

“I think people are really scared of baking because it’s a whole other science. So I’m really hopeful that I’ve taken the scary element out of it.

“There’s a delicious chocolate cake in there that’s made with olive oil, so it’s lovely and moist and can be eaten for a week – then also frozen.

“What I do, if it’s brownies, for example, I portion it up, wrap it up in some paper, and pop it into the freezer.”

7. Utilise kitchen time

Time is precious, so if dinner is cooking away in the oven, look for the opportunity to futureproof your meal planning and whip up another dish while you’re there.

Make the most of your time in the kitchen, Hussain says. “I always utilise my time really well. So if I’m in there, I love to cook dinner, but I also make something extra on top, like big batch recipes that you can divvy up and just pop into the freezer ready for weeks ahead.”

Think teriyaki salmon, meatball marinara or paneer karahi, which you can pop straight in the freezer to save cooking one night at a later date.

Cook Once, Eat Twice by Nadiya Hussain (Penguin Michael Joseph, £28) is out now. Photography by Chris Terry.

Nadiya’s Cook Once, Eat Twice, will air every Tuesday on BBC Two, also available pn BBC iPlayer.

Words by Gemma Dunn

LEFT

Cook Once, Eat Twice, by Nadiya Hussain | Penguin Michael Joseph/PA

RIGHT

Nadiya Hussain’s honey and mustard toad in the hole recipe | Chris Terry/PA

NADIYA HUSSAIN

Chris Terry/PA

INGREDIENTS

For the batter:

115g plain flour

½tsp salt

1tsp ground black pepper

4 medium eggs

300ml whole milk

100ml oil

For the sausages:

3tbsp oil

12 chicken sausages

3 onions, thinly sliced

1tsp salt

1tsp sugar

2tbsp wholegrain mustard

INGREDIENTS

Peels of 6 bananas

1 lemon, juice only

5tbsp oil

2 onions, diced

1½tsp salt

2tbsp ginger paste

2tbsp garlic paste

1 tomato, diced

2tbsp tomato purée

3tbsp garam masala

2tsp chilli powder (optional)

300ml water

Thinly sliced coriander, to serve

Honey mustard toad-in-the-hole SERVES 2

1. Start by making the batter. Put the plain flour in a bowl with the salt and black pepper. Whisk to combine. Add the eggs and whole milk and whisk to a smooth batter. Set aside in the fridge.

2. For the sausages, pour the oil into a frying pan and as soon as the oil is hot, add the sausages and cook until golden brown. Take out and set aside on a plate.

3. Pour another splash of oil into the pan and when the oil is hot, add the onion and salt and cook till golden brown and caramelised. Now add the sugar and wholegrain mustard and warm through till the sugar has dissolved. Preheat the oven to 200°C.

4. Get a large roasting dish and pour the remaining 100ml of oil into the dish. Add the sausages on top of the oil, making sure they are in threes so there are three per person in every portion.

5. Now add the onions on top of the sausages. Pop into the oven for 10 minutes. Take out and pour the batter in and around the sausages. Bake for 35-40 minutes. Take out and this is ready to eat with gravy and peas – my personal fave way of eating it.

Don’t be afraid to try this with vegetarian sausages – they are just as good.

Banana peel curry SERVES 4

1. Start by thinly slicing your banana peels and squeezing the lemon juice all over to stop the browning process a little. They will brown as soon as they are peeled – they are notorious for it – but that is OK.

2. Pour the oil into a medium non-stick pan and as soon as the oil is hot, add the onions and salt and cook until browned.

3. As soon as the onions are soft and brown, add the ginger paste, garlic paste, tomato and tomato purée, cook for a few minutes and then add the garam masala and chilli powder and mix through.

4. Add the sliced banana peels and cook in the spices over a high heat for a few minutes. Pour in the water and cook over a medium heat, with the lid on, for 30 minutes.

5. Take off the lid and cook now until the mixture is drier and not watery. Sprinkle over the coriander and serve.

Chris Terry/PA

TIP

A team of friendly, dedicated electrical contractors, based in Bournemouth, and covering Dorset and the surrounding counties.

With over 30 years experience, we’re well known for providing a top level of service and quality on every job.

We are very pleased with the complete job Hunter Collins provide, the communication is clear, they are tidy and professional, the finish is good, the team are polite and the price is fair.

How to work the stylish swivel chair trend

Time to up your seating game, says Sam Wylie-Harris.

When it comes to seeing the bigger picture, investing in your seating makes for a home comfort that’s as rewarding as it is ritzy – is there anything better than a beautifully designed, comfortable armchair?

And the answer is yes! One with plenty of spin.

No longer confined to the office, the swivel chair is taking centre stage in stylish homes as we long to cocoon in luxury… with ergonomic design top of our wish list.

“The combination of comfort and functionality with a twist makes swivel armchairs a must-have for modern homes,” says Patricia Gibbons, head of buying at sofa.com.

“They provide the flexibility to shift your focus and interaction with different areas of a room, making them perfect for multifunctional spaces.”

Additionally, she says the aesthetic appeal of the right swivel armchair can add a contemporary touch to any room.

So what to look for? It all depends on your lifestyle, set up and budget, so here are a few expert tips to factor in…

ABOVE

Melville Swivel Chair, Terracotta, £399.99, My Furniture | My Furniture/PA

LEFT

Caracole Seville Swivel Chair, £2,030, Sweetpea & Willow | Sweetpea & Willow/PA

Colette 360° Swivel

Armchair, Ocean Blue

Premium Mottled

Velvet £269, Furniture Outlet | Furniture Outlet/PA

Statement swivels for ultimate standout

“While ‘statement armchair’ styles continuously evolve, the trend itself stems from a desire to effortlessly transform a room with an eye-catching piece that elevates and refreshes a space,” explains Gisela Lancaster, head of buying, Sofology. “Swivel styles offer an additional function, many designed with silhouettes and structural features that inject a sense of flair and individuality into a room.”

Much more than an accent chair, she says to make an impact with cylindrical curvature, intricate details, bold colours and rich textures to add a touch of elegance and sophistication.

Super luxe swivels

“Selecting the right swivel chair is all about finding that perfect balance between comfort, style, and functionality, ensuring each piece is as unique and inviting as the space it inhabits,” says Helen Pett, Design Ambassador on Arteriors’ London team.

“Comfort is paramount when it comes to seating, and features like a deep seat and barrel back offer exceptional comfort and an inviting feel, perfect for lounging.”

Living Pasadena Boucle

Swivel Chair in Coco Boucle Cream, £829, ScS | ScS/PA

For mood-boosting swivelling, she says to opt for a larger swivel chair to ensure a new level of comfort. “Irresistible for relaxation and ideal for creating a decadent, luxurious space.

“Consider a steel plinth base for a modern touch that ensures stability and elegance, or bouclé upholstery for a soft and luxurious texture for feel and visual impact,” underlines Pett.

In today’s interiors landscape, she says it’s not just about the materials used, but how they enhance and elevate your space. “Honouring the opportunity to bring an exquisite piece of design into your home.”

Stylish swivels on a budget

“When working to a budget, colour choice can go a long way in elevating your current scheme,” advises Lancaster. “Opposites often attract, but do select complementary colours that work in harmony with your existing colour palette.

She continues: “For instance, if you have plenty of red in your scheme, opting for a blue shade that sits directly opposite on the colour wheel will be the perfect match for a vibrant and daring option.”

LEFT

Nobu Swivel Chair in Relaxed Chenille Olive Green, £799, Sofology | Sofology/PA

BELOW

Eichholtz Maguire

Swivel Chair, Cambon Black, £1,495, Sweetpea & Willow | Sweetpea & Willow/PA

Look out for swivel chairs with interesting silhouettes to enhance the ambiance of your space, too, says Lancaster. “Art Deco styles and sculpted bold designs where the swivel function is hidden can often look super luxe without the uncomfortable price tag.”

Mood-enhancing swivels

As Gibbons points out: “Swivel armchairs offer unparalleled flexibility, opening up a world of styling possibilities. Whether you’re creating a tranquil listening room, a cosy reading nook or sophisticated cocktail corner, a swivel armchair can effortlessly enhance the atmosphere and functionality of your space.”

In a listening room, where relaxation and immersion in sound are paramount, Gibbons says a pillow armchair with a swivel base ticks all the boxes.

“Allowing for easy adjustment to ensure you can always find the perfect angle to enjoy your music or podcast, and sink into the comfort of the plush material.

“Plus you can interact with different parts of the room without having to get up… the dream!”

Alternatively, she says to think about rooms where you’d like a playful element incorporated, like the entertaining space of your living room.

“Swivel mechanisms help guests easily turn to engage in conversation or reach for their drinks on the side table.

“Ensuring everyone feels comfortable and included –ideal for cocktail soirées.”

Words by Sam Wylie-Harris, PA

ABOVE

The Fitzrovia Matt Velvet Wine All Over Without Trim, £699, Sofology | Sofology/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

£1,150,000

Equestrian centre | Five bed chalet | 9-10 acres | 7 Stables | 2 Tack rooms | Multiple barns | Multiple annexe potential | Builders yard | Semi rural location | Private access

Stapehill £925,000

West Parley

£1,200,000

Stunning six large bedrooms | Detached |

location | Recently decorated and well presented throughout

Boasting four spacious bedrooms and surrounded by verdant fields on approximately half an acre of land, this charming rural property features an Airbnb lodge, tennis court, outdoor heated pool, double garage & ample parking

Coveted

Lychett Matravers, Poole POA

Kevin McCloud on 25 years of Grand Designs: ‘It’s become me and I’ve become it’

The genial presenter reflects on a quarter of a century of clever, creative and sometimes ‘bonkers’ build projects.

With heroes in the shape of hard-working builders and clever designers, villains like mud, rain and running out of money, and a happy ‘home of your dreams’ ending –Grand Designs has all the ingredients for a fantastic story.

And for the Channel 4 show’s presenter Kevin McCloud, who’s guided us through intrepid homeowners’ attempts to create showstopping and quirky homes for the last 25 years, it’s a story that’s become part of his own. “It’s become me, and I’ve become it,” declares McCloud, 65.

“I think it’s one of those big adventures we all imagine we might go on, even if we don’t. And it seems to tease out every human emotion, every human drive, the good and the bad. And that, I think, is why people watch – it’s storytelling.

“We have villains in the form of mud and money and rain, and then there are the heroes – the craftspeople, builders, inventors and engineers – who are just trying to do good stuff, and in that sense it’s no different to listening to somebody tell a story in a tribe 3,000 years ago, sat around a campfire.”

Now, 25 years since the show was first aired in 1999, McCloud is presenting a new series, preceded by a 25th anniversary special episode which took viewers through some of the show’s greatest and greenest selfbuild journeys.

ABOVE & RIGHT

Cementing the Grand Designs silver jubilee is a new book, Grand Designs At 25, featuring the most stand-out builds, chosen by McCloud.

He thinks the book’s turned out “wonderfully well” but hesitates to go as far as saying he’s proud of Grand Designs and what he and it have achieved over a quarter of a century, instead opting to say he’s “at peace with it”.

“I don’t see myself as any different from the audience. We all love design and making stuff and building and architecture and construction, and we all love, in a way, the mud and seeing something change for the better,” McCloud reasons.

“When I say I’ve made my peace with it, what I mean is I have no distinction. I just happen to be on that side of the camera, but we’re all sharing the same love and enthusiasm for the same things.”

So, what does the father-of-four think has changed most during the show’s 25 years? He says architecture is much more accessible than it used to be, and adds: “Sustainability has become central to the agenda. It wasn’t part of government policy 25 years ago, but it now is.”

Costs have of course risen, and – often as a consequence of that – houses are taking much longer to build, McCloud observes. Aside from general inflation, he says the biggest price rises have been for land, and the increased cost of building materials as a result of the pandemic and Brexit.

“So 15 or 20 years ago, to build a decent self-build home from the slab up would cost about £3,000 per square-metre, and that was doing a nice job,” says McCloud, “Now it would be £4,500-£5,000 per square-metre. So in 15 years, it’s gone up by 50%, but the big hikes have happened in the last 10 years.”

Despite the price rises, people aren’t cutting corners on their Grand Designs. “They’re thinking their way out of trouble,” McCloud explains. “Designing better buildings, making them a bit smaller, being careful and clever. But they’re taking much longer, that’s the trouble.”

Kevin McCloud | FreemantleUK/Channel 4/PA

He estimates that in the past, on average it took two to four years to build a Grand Designs house. “Now it’s taking four to six years, and all the projects we’re planning to air this year, it’s like, when is it going to be ready? So that’s had a big impact on us.

“What people are doing is trying to build for the same money, so they’re trying to do as much of it themselves as they can. They’re trying to rationalise their designs and preserve quality, and they’re taking forever.”

Another change he’s noticed has been the “increasing Americanisation” of housing, and this ‘bigger is better’ ethos is linked to a major bugbear of McCloud’s…

“I know people, when they build a grand design, often think the word ‘grand’ in the title refers to the size of the building – it’s got to be huge. And I didn’t used to have to do this, but I now go to great pains to say to people, ‘grand’ is all about the vision,” he explains.

“If you don’t have a vision for either the design or the technology, or for pushing boundaries, or trying stuff which nobody’s done before, then we’ll probably be less interested to make a programme.

“Size isn’t everything – size is almost irrelevant. It’s about the grand scale of imagination, not physical space. I think the

one thing that architecture has shown me over my life is that size does not equal space.”

For example, you can create a small building with a lofty ceiling and “a view of the heavens that gives you contact with infinity”, he says, or a well-designed and ergonomic house can become “what seems like the most spacious home as a result”.

There’s no particular Grand Designs project that stands out above all others for McCloud, but he points out: “My favourite ones are always the most intriguing, difficult, the longest, the ones that are complex in terms of how they’re brought into being, but sometimes the simplest in design.”

He can’t deny that sometimes the projects are “a bit nuts” – but that is part of the lure. “Sometimes I look at the project dispassionately and think I’ve got a job to communicate this idea without making it sound bonkers. But it’s entertaining if it is slightly bonkers.

“On the one hand, you want to make stuff accessible to viewers,” he adds. “On the other hand, so much of Grand Designs is about portraying eccentricity and people moving to the margins of society and doing their own thing. It’s important to remember that what they’re doing is a bit nuts, and the rest of us are at home on the sofa.”

And it’s hard not to admire people for following their dreams, even if their visions are a bit “bonkers”.

“There are plenty of people not suited to building their own home – it requires huge reserves of patience and stamina and tolerance, and you need to be a very adept human being.

“Of course, the vast majority of our viewers are not ever going to do this – but that’s not why they’re watching. They’re not watching because it’s a manual, they’re watching because they’re trying to understand the journey,” says McCloud.

“But I think most people are watching just for the craziness of it. Just for the, ‘What are they going to do next?’.”

Words by Lisa Salmon, PA

Grand Designs At 25 by Kevin McCloud is published by White Lion, priced £28. Available now | Photo credit White Lion/PA

The new series of Grand Designs started on Channel 4 on Wednesday, September 25.

Grand Designs Live is at the NEC in Birmingham from October 2-6.

Dog-friendly getaways to discover in the UK this autumn

Four-legged guests can expect pedigree service at these ‘pawsome’ hotels.

There was a time when it was frowned upon to bring dogs into hotels and restaurants. But as the bond between pets and their owners grows stronger, more people are refusing to pack a suitcase without bringing their four-legged companion along for the ride.

Autumn is the perfect season to explore the UK’s parks and woodlands – and even better with a canine companion by your side.

If you’re looking for a pooch-friendly getaway, try one of these pawfect properties.

St Ermin’s Hotel, London

There are an impressive 3,000 parks and green spaces in the capital – enough to keep a pooch happy on a city break. A short walk from St James’s Park and Green Park, this historical building in Westminster takes a very modern approach to pet pals. There are 18 rooms set aside for free dog stays, all with a cosy bed, delicious treats and a water bowl.

The hotel’s ‘Canine Concierge’ can offer advice on local exercise areas and nearby parks, pooch-friendly restaurants, grooming parlours, local vets (in case of emergencies) and recommended local dog outfitters for those who want to parade their pooch in the finest attire.

HOW: Rooms from £329 with breakfast. Visit sterminshotel.co.uk

Homewood Hotel & Spa, Bath

The patter of paws is a reassuring sound in country house hotels, where dogs are in their element. Set in the Somerset Hills, a 15-minute drive from Bath, this playful Georgian retreat is decorated with vibrant interiors and bold artwork, reflecting a playful approach to hospitality.

On arrival, all dogs are given beds and bowls to help them settle in. Foodie requirements are catered for with a specialised dog restaurant menu, while a dog agility course on site is available to burn off extra energy. Tired owners can book their pet into a doggy creche, too.

HOW: From £195 per night including breakfast, dogs are £25 extra per room. Visit homewoodbath.co.uk

SCHLOSS Roxburghe, Scottish Borders

Why should dogs make do with scraps and kibble? Guaranteed to set tails wagging, a dedicated doggy menu is served at this historic house on the Scottish Borders. Culinary delights include yappertizers such as ‘Tail Wagging Eggs’ with a mix of scrambled eggs, ham, carrots, and ‘Poochie Poultry’ with poached chicken breast, carrots broccoli and gravy.

Hotel rooms are also dog-friendly, equipped with individual baskets and rugs, or choose to stay in one of 39 new self-catering cottages. Additionally, pets can enter most of the communal areas including the drawing room for afternoon tea.

From woodland walks to riverside strolls, there are more than 300 acres of land to explore in the grounds. A dedicated doggy shower removes the risk of muddy paw prints on the carpets.

HOW: Two-bedroom cottages from £580 per night, dogs are £30 extra per room. Visit schlosshotelroxburghe.com.

Balmer Lawn Hotel, New Forest

Let your pooch run free with a sensory overload on 140 miles of safe off-road tracks in the New Forest and 40 miles of nearby coast to explore. An ideal base is the four-star Balmer Lawn Hotel on the edge of Brockenhurst, where many of the rooms are classified as dog-friendly.

The hotel provides fresh fluffy towels, water bowls and tasty treats for four-legged guests, ensuring they enjoy the same service as their owners. There’s also a finedining experience in the restaurant, with an area outside set aside for guests to sit and have dinner with their pets.

Forest trails begin straight from the front door, where a hose can be used to make mucky pups presentable when they return.

HOW: Prices start from £165 per person on a B&B basis (two sharing). Dogs cost £25 per night. Visit balmerlawnhotel.com

Words by Sarah Marshall, PA

LEFT

A dog in the New Forest | Alamy/PA

RIGHT

Schloss Roxburghe | Hyatt/PA

Transforming living spaces with media walls and electric fires

As the colder months draw nearer, our living spaces naturally evolve into cozy sanctuaries, perfect for relaxing with family and friends. One of the hottest design trends capturing attention this year is the Media Wall—a chic, contemporary way to combine your television, electric fire, and decorative elements into one seamless feature. A media wall doesn’t just serve as a functional centerpiece for entertainment, but also adds depth, warmth, and style to your living room.

Media Walls: The Ultimate Focal Point

At the heart of any great media wall is the electric fire. Not only does it provide warmth during the winter months, but it also serves as a visual anchor for your space, creating a harmonious balance between modern tech and classic comfort. Electric fires are no longer just functional; they’re a design statement, offering a cozy ambiance that can be enjoyed year-round.

For those looking to embrace this trend, the New Forest electric fires are the perfect fit. Their realistic flames and elegant design options make them an ideal focal point for media walls. Whether you’re settling in for a quiet evening or hosting a holiday gathering, the electric fire brings an undeniable warmth to the space—both figuratively and literally.

One of the key benefits of a media wall with an electric fire is its versatility. The fire can be used with or without heat, so even during the warmer months, you can still enjoy the cozy ambiance without overheating your room. The ability to adjust flame effects and brightness levels ensures that the aesthetic appeal of your media wall remains intact, regardless of the season.

This adaptability makes media walls especially popular during the winter holidays when creating a warm, inviting atmosphere becomes essential. Picture a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, stockings hung, and a roaring (electric) fire beneath the television, all within a sleek, built-in setup that keeps the room tidy and modern. The New Forest fire range offers the perfect balance of style and practicality, making your media wall a centerpiece for cozy family moments all year long.

Embrace Classic Charm with Stove Chambers

While media walls are a rising trend, there’s still something to be said for the charm of a stove chamber—a classic design that evokes warmth and tradition. Traditionally associated with solid fuel stoves, this look can now be achieved much more easily and with fewer restrictions, thanks to the advent of electric stoves.

The British Fires Hinton Cast Iron Electric Stove is a prime example of how you can bring this timeless aesthetic into your home with modern convenience. Designed with a traditional look, this electric stove features Deluxe Real Logs and rear-chamber LED lighting, which adds a warm, inviting glow to any room. It gives you the charm of a classic wood-burning stove without the hassle of solid fuel.

The beauty of installing an electric stove in a stove chamber is that it’s essentially plug-and-play. Once your chimney has been professionally blocked off, the stove can be placed in the chamber and styled to fit your personal tastes. Whether you prefer a rustic stone backdrop or a more contemporary tiled finish, the flexibility of an electric stove allows for endless design possibilities without the limitations of a traditional stove.

The Hinton Cast Iron Electric Stove delivers instant warmth with the click of a button, offering all the ambiance of a traditional stove without the maintenance or chimney cleaning that a solid fuel stove would require. It’s the perfect way to blend old-world charm with the modern ease of electric technology.

WHY GO ELECTRIC?

The Benefits of Electric Fires and Stoves

While the aesthetic appeal of electric fires and stoves is undeniable, their practical advantages are equally impressive. Here’s why more homeowners are opting for electric over traditional solid fuel:

• Ease of Installation: Electric fires and stoves require no flue or chimney, meaning they can be installed in virtually any room of the house. This opens up a world of design possibilities and makes it easier to incorporate a fire feature into your home.

• Instant Heat: Electric models provide warmth at the touch of a button, allowing you to enjoy the comfort of a fire without waiting for solid fuel to ignite. Whether you’re heating up a room on a chilly

evening or just looking to create a cozy ambiance, electric fires are ready to go when you are.

• Year-Round Ambiance: One of the standout features of electric fires is the ability to use the flame effects without heat. This means you can enjoy the cozy glow of a fire throughout the year, regardless of the temperature outside.

• Low Maintenance: Unlike traditional solid fuel stoves, electric fires and stoves require virtually no maintenance. There’s no need to worry about sourcing fuel, cleaning out ash, or ensuring proper ventilation. Simply plug it in, sit back, and enjoy.

• Eco-Friendly: Electric fires offer a cleaner, greener alternative to burning wood or coal. They don’t produce smoke or harmful emissions, making them a more environmentally friendly option for those who are mindful of their carbon footprint.

• Cost-Effective: With no need to buy solid fuel and lower running costs, electric fires and stoves can be more economical in the long run. Many models also come with energy-saving features, allowing you to heat only the rooms you’re using.

CONTACT

01202 588632

sales@superiorfires.co.uk

LOCATION

10 Avon Trading Park, Reid Street, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 2BT

Conclusion: Style and Warmth, All Year Long

Whether you’re drawn to the modern elegance of a media wall or the timeless charm of a stove chamber, electric fires offer the perfect blend of style and practicality. With the flexibility to fit into any space, easy installation, and year-round functionality, it’s no wonder they’re becoming a staple in homes across the country.

As winter approaches and the holidays draw near, now is the perfect time to start thinking about how to transform your living space into a cozy retreat. From the sophisticated look of a media wall to the classic appeal of a stove chamber, the right electric fire can truly elevate your home, providing warmth, ambiance, and joy all year long.

Visit our showroom in Christchurch where you can be inspired by our media wall roomsets featuring a variety of electric insets, wall-mounted suites, and freestanding stoves.

www.superiorfires.co.uk

Tuscany Blinds & Shutters Ltd has a wide selection of shutters & awnings to suit any situation.

We have over 30 years’ experience supplying and fitting shutters and awnings. Our expert staff can advise you on all aspects of supply and installation, so you can be sure you’ll be happy with the results. We guarantee customer satisfaction! We only source the best products, offering you traditional and contemporary solutions for every taste.

We specialise in the importation, fabrication and installation of all types of natural and engineered stone and ceramic tiling. Although our manufacturing facility is in Poole Dorset, we install stone and ceramics throughout the UK. With over 50 years combined experience in the industry we are able to manage any project to ensure it meets all of your expectations.

How to style your living space with indoor plants

Designer and author Jason Chongue offers tips on texture, colour and scale.

Houseplants can create a mood in a room, whether you want energy, calm or just a sense of cosiness.What you achieve not only depends on your choice of plants but also how you position them, match them with your interior décor, and scale them up or down, says Jason Chongue, designer and author of new book, The Plant Society Design Handbook.

“It’s important you make sure the plants you group together all live in the same micro-climate. There’s no point, for instance, planting a cactus with a tropical plant because the watering and lighting requirements will be different,” Chongue begins.

Textures

“I like to play with a range of textures to add some layering,” he adds. “Some people like to use the same texture of plant, which creates a flat tone throughout. I prefer to use something that’s got a bold leaf to it and then something that’s more intricate in terms of a foliage texture.”

You can harness texture from light and colour too: “Look at how the light comes through your space and how that can create texture in your house.

“A fern, for instance, will cast more intricate shadows on the wall, as opposed to a monstera, which will have more of a solid shadow. It’s almost like using a sheer curtain as opposed to a blackout.”

Plants with upright foliage, such as snake plants, work well with detailed planters as their upright nature allows the planter to remain visible.

Shapes and space

“Shapes are more important than we think, because a lot of people don’t want to style their homes even with much furniture because they think it will make it feel more cramped as we are living in smaller spaces,” he says.

“So, look at how functional a space needs to be. Rather than have a really wide-growing plant or a wide planter, incorporate a plant which is narrow and tall, which has a growth habit that goes straight up, if you have a tight space.”

Plants such as a bird of paradise might be suitable for this. “Think about what a plant will grow into rather than what it looks like when you buy it,” he adds.

If you have a bigger space to fill, play with odd numbers, he suggests, whether it’s clusters of three or five, to make it a bigger gesture.

“You could use three to five different plants and a series of different shaped planters, maybe in the same colour, so that it doesn’t feel like you’ve just gone to the thrift shop and bought whatever you saw.

“I love rubber plants, so Ficus elastica, which can be quite sculptural, and you can get them in different leaf colours, from burgundy to green. They are handy if you want to fit them into a big space because they soon become quite a specimen.”

Colour

Think about the colour palette and feel of your home when deciding whether to go for bold or bright colours when choosing plants.

If your décor is bold and colourful, you might go for calatheas (peacock plants), which have colourful undersides, or veer towards handmade pots or powder coated metals in shades of blues, reds and oranges, Chongue suggests.

“When I have a really patterned planter, I’ll choose a simple plant to go with it to control the chaos. You can let the foliage do the work.”

If you want a calm mood, have similar colours or tones among all your planters.

Greenery is a breath of fresh air in a room with a monochrome palette, as the plants help make the space more inviting.

Using similar tones in both your soft furnishings and your planters can make for a stronger aesthetic, he adds. Chongue uses dark, earthy planters in minimalist settings, so he might go for Ficus elastica in that environment or devil’s ivy which adds a hint of colour to a neutral space.

Placement

“There are always corners in a home where you want to fill the space, such as between your sofa and an armchair. This is a good space for plants. I would tend to cluster or have a single specimen. And I like using smaller planters on dining or coffee tables.”

Scale

“Scale is important. I tend to cluster three different sizes in heights, if you are grouping three plants,” says Chongue.

He uses hierarchy of scale, as our eyes adjust easily to points. So, when we view a collection of plants, they’re easier on the eye when they stack up so that the top of the tallest plant is the focal point, before our eyes are drawn down to the others in the group.

Think about the silhouettes of plants, rather than focusing on the details of the plants and planters. And give hierarchy to either the plant or the planter, not both.

The Plant Society Design Handbook by Jason Chongue is published by Murdoch Books, priced £25. Available now.

Words by Hannah Stephenson, PA

Photos by Armelle Habib /PA

The Plant Society Design Book by Jason Chongue | Murdoch Books/PA

LEFT

The best plants for dazzling leaf colour in autumn...

From warm yellows to burnt oranges and fiery reds, shrubs, trees and vines offer an explosion of colour.

The autumn garden can be as colourful as the summer one, but it’s not only the brilliance of flowering plants like rudbeckia and dahlias which set the scene, it’s the fantastic hues you get as the leaves turn to buttery yellow, burnt orange and lava red.

Plants which produce spectacular leaf colour in autumn generally look their most impressive in the sun, especially if they are backlit, so their leaves produce a colourful stained-glass window effect display.

So, which are the plants which will give you showstopping leaf colour as the weather cools?

Cercis canadencis

Another easy-to-grow specimen which is good for smaller gardens and can even be grown in a pot is this deciduous multi-stemmed tree with glossy red leaves which gradually turn to beautiful shades of orange red, yellow and purple in the autumn. They are best shown off where the sun can backlight the autumn foliage which appears almost translucent.

Cotinus coggygria (Smoke bush)

The smoke bush is a shrub which will see you through a number of months, with its delicate pink summer flower plumes which appear smoke-like giving way to a sizzle of colour as its leaves turn from light green to eyecatching red and orange. Plant it in moist, well-drained soil and prune it if you need to after flowering.

ABOVE

Cercis canadencis | Alamy/PA

Amelanchier

These small trees have become more popular in recent years, having been highlighted at garden shows including Chelsea and for good reason – they may be the best tree you can have in a small space and earn their place because they provide interest throughout the year. They bear pretty white flowers in profuse sprays in spring, while in autumn their leaves turn to scarlet red and fiery orange.

Boston ivy

Anyone who wants to shroud their fence or wall in brilliant colour (but must be prepared to work to keep it under control) should consider Boston ivy (Parthenocissus tricuspidata), preferably planted on a north-facing wall. This vigorous climber’s leaves turn to deep red and crimson in autumn when the nights start to turn cold. Just be aware that it is potentially huge and self-clinging, so you will need plenty of room, although you can hack it back in mid-winter to keep it under control.

Autumn leaves of Cotinus coggygria | Alamy/PA

Flowering dogwood

Many flowering dogwoods produce flame-coloured autumnal accents, including Cornus ‘Porlock’, which grows quickly and soon becomes broad, with spreading branches and bracts which turn from green to white and blush pink. Cornus florida has unusually curled leaves which open to petal-like white bracts surrounding yellow-tipped, green flowers in spring and the leaves turn from pink to red and purple in autumn. Check when you buy, but many will grow to just 3 x 3 metres in 20 years, making them ideal choices for smaller spaces.

Euonymus alatus (spindle bush)

If you love brilliant red in the autumn, then this shrub, which can grow 2m x 2m, is the one for you. Yes, there are smaller, variegated evergreen types which are often used as fillers in winter hanging baskets, but it’s worth considering this deciduous candidate which will give you a foliage display of deep flame leaves.

ABOVE

Cornus florida flowers in spring | Alamy/PA

LEFT

Euonymus alatus in autumn | Alamy/PA

RIGHT (TOP) A Japanese maple in a pot | Alamy/PA

RIGHT (BOTTOM)

Hydrangea quercifolia in autumn | Alamy/PAv

Acer palmatum (Japanese maple)

There’s a Japanese maple for every garden, whether you want a deep burgundy large specimen casting shadows over other shrubs and plantings, or you just want to add a touch of elegance in a pot on your patio, delicate foliage wafting in the breeze. Among my favourites is ‘Bloodgood’, which can grow quite big at 4.5m x 4.5m, but will give you striking purple leaves, which turn blood red in autumn. For pots, good choices include Acer palmatum var. dissectum, a dome-shaped tree whose mid-green leaves turn golden in autumn. The varieties ‘Sango-kaku’, whose leaves turn to butter yellow in autumn, and ‘Osakazuki’, which produces scarlet autumn colour, are also favourites.

Hydrangea quercifolia

The oak-leaved hydrangea is so named because of its large, impressive leaves which are shaped like those of an oak and turn to bronze-crimson in autumn before they fall. This deciduous shrub, which has a loose, open habit, produces large white conical flowerheads at the end of the branches in late summer which fade to pink. It likes a damp site in semi shade in moist soil enriched with organic matter.

Words by Hannah Stephenson, PA

Transform your entrance with expert door installations

When looking for doors in Poole and the surrounding areas, Poole Joinery is the perfect place to start and finish. Our varied selection ranging from aluminium sliding patio doors, composite front doors and bifold doors is sourced from top UK manufacturers, fulfilling a variety of different customer intentions.

With over 25 years of experience, our expert installation team guarantees a flawless fit, providing peace of mind and superior craftsmanship.

Expert Installation | High-Quality Materials | Tailored Designs

A wide range of styles and materials for your perfect door in Dorset. Whether you want to enhance your home’s energy efficiency, boost its security, or simply modernise its appearance, we at Poole Joinery work closely with you to find the best solution. Our top priority is ensuring you get exactly what you need.

To provide you with even more choices, we offer an extensive selection of doors. Our range includes options that improve fire safety, maximise natural light intake, and come in a variety of materials. Regardless of your specific requirements, you can trust that all our doors prioritise energy efficiency and security.

Check out our extensive range at www.poolejoinerywindows.co.uk and book your FREE consultation today!

MOTORING NEWS

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

WORLD’S OLDEST BENTLEY T-SERIES RETURNS HOME

The world’s oldest Bentley T-Series, a standard saloon in Shell Grey, has returned to Crewe after 59 years. Sensitively recommissioned and retaining much of its original componentry and running gear, it takes its place in the Bentley Heritage Collection of road- and race-cars that together describe all 105 years of Bentley’s history.

T-Series chassis number SBH1001 was used as a company trials car and featured in the original press coverage following the model launch at the 1965 Paris Salon de l’Auto. When found under a cover in storage, the car had not run for decades and was missing several key areas – including its entire interior. The car’s significance as the first T-Series – or equivalent Rolls Royce Silver Shadow - off the production line prompted the decision to recommission it, preserving as much of the original car as possible.

Mike Sayer, Head of the Bentley Heritage Collection, explains: “The T-Series is one of the final two pieces of the puzzle to complete our rejuvenated Heritage Collection. Our Chief Communications Officer, Wayne Bruce and I quite literally found it under a tarpaulin in the back of a warehouse, and given it was the first-of-line chassis we knew we had to save it. Together with our T-Series Mulliner Coupe, this revitalised saloon completes the Bentley heritage story of the 1960s and 1970s, and is now an outstanding example of the model, which was the first Bentley to use a unitary monocoque construction.”

After a group of Bentley apprentices started the process of dismantling and assessing the car, the recommissioning of the T-Series was entrusted to the expert team at P&A Wood, specialists in the preservation and restoration of classic Bentleys and the company’s partner for Heritage Collection projects.

The T-Series is reunited with its former press office registration number of 1900 TU as the latest addition to the Heritage Collection. Along with the 45 other cars in the Collection, the T-Series will live on Bentley’s campus in Crewe, England, on permanent display and kept in running, road legal condition to enable driving when needed.

THE FIRST COMPLETE ROLLS-ROYCE - THE SILVER DAWN

For the first 40 years of its existence, RollsRoyce built only rolling chassis, onto which independent coachbuilders installed bodywork specified by the customer. It wasn’t until the late 1940s that the marque produced its first complete motor car –the Silver Dawn. Although Rolls-Royce suspended motor car production between 1939 and 1945 to focus on building aero engines, design work on a new model continued in the background.

During the 1930s, Rolls-Royce offered three models, each of which included numerous parts that were unique to it and could not be shared between them. This significantly increased the manufacturing costs per car, which quickly became unsustainable during the austerity of the post-war years.

Rolls-Royce therefore faced the problem of reducing production costs without compromising quality or performance. The solution was new models that could share common parts, a new engine that could be offered in straight-four, six or eight-cylinder

variants, and a single chassis that could be configured in variable dimensions.

These ideas came together in a development programme for what would be known as the ‘Rationalised Range’. In 1946, Rolls-Royce launched the first such model: the Silver Wraith. This was a direct replacement for Phantom III, introduced in 1936. Like its predecessor, and indeed all the pre-war models, Silver Wraith was a rolling chassis designed to be fitted with third-party, coach-built bodywork.

Rolls-Royce knew that to be commercially successful it needed a model that was

less expensive and could be produced in greater numbers than was possible with traditional coachbuilding. So, for the first time in its history, Rolls-Royce decided to produce a complete car, with in-house coachwork.

The Silver Dawn, was launched in 1949, initially only as an export car and finally became available in the UK in 1952. Of the 761 Silver Dawns produced, most were supplied with the ‘Standard Steel’ four-door saloon bodies produced in-house. But in deference to customer requirements, it was also offered as a rolling chassis, with some 64 coach-built examples completed in a production run that lasted until 1955.

As further proof of the Rationalised Range approach, by 1952, clients could specify both the smaller, complete Silver Dawn and larger Silver Wraith rolling chassis with automatic gear selection. Indeed, Silver Dawn would be among the very last Rolls-Royce models to be offered with a manual transmission.

MG3 HYBRID + COMPETITIVE, ENDEARING AND HUGE FUN

When Chinese automotive maker SAIC took over what remained of the Rover Group there were a lot of very unhappy Rover and MG enthusiasts. It’s fair to say that MG today looks nothing like it did when SAIC took it over, and began to resurrect a car company from what remained of Rover. Much of the criticism was unfair because SAIC were never going to replicate the Rover and MG of old, it wouldn’t have been profitable for starters!

Among the reborn MG models that emerged at that time the little MG3 was much underrated, despite being rather old tech it had character, lots of equipment and was cheap. The MG3 soldiered on longer than any of those initial models with only a minor facelift during that time. Now there is a very new and much more modern MG3 Hybrid + and it’s a delight.

Priced from £18,495 it retains a 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder power unit but works with a 100kw electric motor and 1.83kwh battery mated to

a 3-speed automatic gearbox. It’s unusual in that the electric motor leads, rather than the more usual set-up of the petrol engine leading. This means the MG3 has exceptionally good performance with the benchmark 62mph passed in just 8 seconds. On the road it’s huge fun and responds more like a pure electric than a hybrid.

The fun continues with superb ride comfort that offers enough resistance to make twisting cross country roads fun. I suspect a lot of this is down to a UK based team who tune the suspension on UK MGs to our roads.

Standard fare is excellent, on the lead-in SE version it includes navigation, adaptive cruise control, automatic air conditioning, rear parking camera and 6-speaker DAB audio system. The higher spec Trophy ups the specification to include heated front seats and steering wheel, keyless entry and start, rain sensor, auto lights and privacy glass.

The interior is a comfortable place to be and despite rather a lot of bargain basement plastics it still feels well bolted together. The driver instrument screen is too busy for such a small screen and the steering wheel would benefit from reach as well as height adjustment.

Over its predecessor the new model has impressively reduced Co2 emissions from 147 g/km to just 100 g/km and similarly fuel consumption from 43 mpg to 64 mpg. It has always been an endearing car and now has become a very competitive and very endearing car.

AUSTIN PEDAL CARS CELEBRATE 75

YEARS OF THE J40

This year marks 75 years of the beloved Austin J40 pedal car, which launched in 1949. Over 32,000 cars were made at the Austin J40 factory in Bargoed, South Wales and, in 2023, Austin Pedal Cars relaunched the brand with its J40 Continuation. The J40 was originally made in England by the Austin Motor Company, based on the 1948 A40 Devon and Dorset.

Each car was manufactured at a specially constructed factory, opened in 1949 under the name of the Austin Junior Car Factory. The business operated on a not-for-profit basis, existing purely for the employment of disabled coal miners who sought a new vocation after injury.

Pedal cars were made from scrap metal taken from the Longbridge Austin factory, each built and painted in the same way as the actual cars would have been. Standard features included working headlights and horn, detachable wheels with Dunlop tyres, a realistic facia panel and leather

or cloth seating. In addition, each car had an opening bonnet and boot, chrome bumpers, hub caps, grille, and boot handle.

A total of 32,098 Austin J40 pedal cars were made before production ceased in September 1971, with cars being shipped around the world. Many featured in films for road safety or were used as fairground rides, but most were sold to families to be enjoyed by children, despite the purchase price equating to two weeks of the average salary at the time. Austin Pedal Cars started to

reproduce J40 spares in 2020 and launched the Austin J40 Continuation in 2023.

To celebrate the 75th anniversary the company loaned eight special Austin pedal cars for display in the spectacular Rotunda at the Royal Automobile Club in Pall Mall, London. The cars on display included a 1949 Austin Pathfinder, prepared for the opening of the Austin pedal cars factory in Bargoed, South Wales that same year. This car was restored by the Bargoed factory in 1975 and starts the Austin pedal cars story, making it a piece of motoring history.

At the opposite end of the timeline is the 2024 J40 Continuation Holland & Sherry collaboration. This unique J40 Continuation comes complete with a Savile Row tailored interior using the finest Holland & Sherry Cloth. This very special car, finished in a rare Austin colour, brings the lineage up to date.

You can find out more about Austin J40 pedal cars by logging on to https://www. austinpedalcars.com/classic-pedal-cars

THE HUNT IS ON! - ASTON MARTIN SEARCHING FOR ITS FIRST CAR FROM 1914

The search is on for a priceless piece of British luxury car brand Aston Martin’s earliest history. A1 was the very first car to be built by Bamford & Martin Ltd, the company that would quickly become Aston Martin. Nicknamed ‘Coal Scuttle’ because of its simple styling that was, to many, redolent of the ubiquitous fuel container that almost every home in the nation would have possessed.

However, Aston Martin sold its earliest model for the princely sum of £50 in 1924 and, not long after that, the car disappeared entirely. Now, 110 years after its manufacture and 100 years after its sale, the Aston Martin Heritage Trust (AMHT) is launching a global hunt for this priceless missing piece of the brand’s history.

The AMHT is asking car enthusiasts around the world to check their garages, outhouses, barns and stores for any potential traces

of the missing car. Trust Treasurer, Garry Taylor, said: “We are very fortunate here at the AMHT to have the oldest known Aston Martin in existence, now known as A3, but, to date, ‘Coal Scuttle’ has eluded us.”

Built in 1914, by a small team of engineers led by marque founders Lionel Martin and Robert Bamford,  this first car was aspiring to be a high-quality sporting car rivalling the likes of Bugatti. The First World War interrupted its development, although Lionel Martin was still able to formally register the car as an ‘Aston-Martin’ on March 16, 1915.

Bamford had fought in France during the war and, having survived both the conflict and the Spanish Flu pandemic, he opted to leave the business to concentrate on a quieter life, passing on his shareholding to Kate Martin, wife of his former business partner Lionel.

As Bamford & Martin Ltd regrouped in 1919 it entered its lone car, ‘Coal Scuttle’, in the first available UK sporting event, the London to Edinburgh Trial. This was a true test of machinery, driving all the way on rough roads and tracks with all manner of pitfalls possible. Thankfully the car completed the event in good time, earning a Gold Medal in the process.

Anyone who does feel they can shed more light on the whereabouts, or fate, of ‘Coal Scuttle’ is asked to contact that AMHT via its website: https://amht.org.uk/contact/

ROYAL AUTOMOBILE CLUB ANNOUNCES FINALISTS OF MOTORING BOOK OF THE YEAR

The judging panel of the world’s most important motoring and motor racing book awards have chosen this year’s finalists, and they cover everything from Formula 1 mavericks to single-seaters that rely on nothing but pedal power.

The Royal Automobile Club’s Motoring Book of The Year Awards is taking place for the eleventh year in a row. The world’s leading motoring writers and publishers will gather at a special event in London’s Pall Mall on Wednesday 30 October, where the winners – including the overall Book of The Year winner – will be revealed.

Titles under consideration were published between 1 July 2023 and 30 June 2024. There are four categories: one each for motoring- and motor racing-related

subjects at affordable prices, and the same for more expensive titles that can include limited and bespoke editions – covering the entire spectrum of book publishing.

The overall trophy is awarded to the title (in any category) the judges consider stands above every other. In addition, the Club will present a Lifetime Achievement Award to recognise an individual who has made a significant contribution to the UK’s motoring book industry, as well as the Graham Robson Trophy for Best Debut Author.

Two of the main shortlists are entries costing no more than £50 which are, MG Century: 100 Years—Safety Fast! by David Knowles, Morgan: An English Enigma: The Vintage and Classic Years by Martyn Webb and Three Men in a Land Rover: 40,000 miles, 40 countries, one unique adventure by ‘Waxy’ Wainwright, Mike Palmer and Chris Wall,

Shortlisted books with no price limit are BMW Behind the Scenes by Steve Saxty, Nash-Healey: A Grand Alliance by John Nikas with Hervé Chevalier, The Austin Pedal Car Story: The fascinating history of Austin’s J40 and Pathfinder from 1946 to present day by David Whyley.

www.royalautomobileclub.co.uk/motoring

Discover the impressive new 74-registration plate Audi models, now available at Poole Audi.

74-regplate availablenow!

Whether you’re looking for the sleek style of the Audi A3, the dynamic performance of the Audi Q7, or the luxury of the Audi Q6 e-tron, we have a wide range of models ready and waiting for you.

Each 74-reg Audi is equipped with cutting-edge technology, premium design, and exceptional performance.

Whilst visiting our state of the art showroom, you are welcome to enjoy our fantastic on-site facilities.

> Private car configurator lounges

> Drive-in servicing lanes

> Electric Vehicle Approved (EVA)

> Beauty salon

> Well-equipped gym

> Audi Sport Specialists

Scan the QR code to explore our new Audi models and be one of the first to own a brand-new 74-reg plate Audi.

Saturday Kitchen’s Matt Tebbutt: It’s easy to swear on live TV

The chef talks to Lauren Taylor about his love of local pubs, sustainable food and life on live telly.

BBC Saturday Kitchen star Matt Tebbutt says one of his biggest challenges is not swearing because “you forget you’re on TV” – and over eight years he’s made a few blunders.

“You have to remember you’re on telly, and you can get very comfortable and act and say things you would in your own kitchen with your friends – you could easily swear, because I’m quite sweary” says the 50 year old, who replaced James Martin as presenter in 2016.

Funnily enough, Tebbutt says he later received an email from Gordon’s PA thanking him for the mention on Saturday Kitchen in 2017. “[They said], ‘Our website has crashed, would you like to come for lunch?’

“I was told off quite rightly, but since then, I always try to have a little word myself before [going live].”

Tebbutt says that while the guests do wine tastings alongside tucking into the dishes cooked up on the show, he’s careful with alcohol while on air.

“What I’ve realised very quickly is that if I drink half a glass of wine, suddenly the autocue moves around, you’re not very good at linking words together. So if I drink like a centimetre of wine in the whole show, I’d be surprised.

“We taste a lot in rehearsals,” he adds.

Tebbutt has just released his latest cookbook, Pub Food, a collection of elevated pub dishes – think mussels cooked in beer with crispy monkfish cheeks, and rump of Welsh lamb with spiced aubergine, mint and yoghurt – as well as a celebration of British pubs in general.

They are “one of the last melting pots there are in life”, says the chef, who also presents Food Unwrapped on Channel 4. “I will disappear on a Friday and go and do Saturday Kitchen. And then I’ll meet some quite famous faces sometimes, get back to

the pub [near his home in Monmouthshire], and nobody gives a monkey’s! They really don’t care, and it’s great.

“You can be in the same place with very wealthy people and farmers, and the guy who empties the bins, all on the same level, and you’re all having a chat- there’s very few places you can do that anymore.

“Then if you throw good beer and conversation in the mix, and good food, I think they’re really special places.”

But local pubs are “having a really s*** time at the moment”, Tebbutt says. “They are struggling, the prices are going through the roof, energy costs, food costs, staffing. It’s all hindering the growth – they’re shutting by stupid numbers per week. I think it’s a real shame and it’s something worth trying to save.

“People need to remember that they’re not going to always be there. And if you’ve got a good one then go and support it.”

Tebbutt and his wife Lisa ran the Foxhunter Inn, Monmouthshire, for 14 years, where they championed sustainable, local fare – something that’s still his M.O. “In the mid Nineties [when working in London] seasonal and local weren’t really such a big thing. Then I moved out, set up my own place, and it seemed obvious because A, it’s going to be cheaper, and B, it’s going to be at its best.”

ABOVE

Pub Food by Matt Tebbutt (Quadrille, £26) | Quadrille/PA

they’ve got to be supported because they’re bloody hard work to keep going.”

“That juxtaposition between the sweat and the blood and tears at the back of house and the control at the front – I just kind of fell in love with it.

“Kitchens, they’re a bit like joining the army. You go in at the bottom, you keep your head down, you find your way and you slowly build yourself up. It’s brutal but you learn a lot.”

But some head chefs do take it too far. He remembers going to eat in one restaurant when he was working in London by a very famous chef at the time; “They had an open door and we saw this chef absolutely, continually tearing his kitchen staff apart. To the point where it was all heads down, they looked broken.

“And then you get the food, it looks beautiful, but you don’t want to eat it because of the misery that’s gone into it.

So now, “I don’t like the chef, I won’t eat their food.”

Words by Lauren Taylor

People are “much more in tune” with sustainable eating now, he notes.

Many of the recipes in the new book are influenced by the local produce of Monmouthshire and what he used to be on the pub menu. “Obviously, [there’s] a lot of lamb, a lot of mushrooms through foraging, crayfish dishes – because we get crayfish in the rivers – wild samphire, eel, black pudding,” Tebbutt says.

Eventually, he burned out running his own pub. “It was a very different sort of relentless business. We didn’t take a break – we did it for 14 years. I was juggling TV and the restaurant for quite some time, and then reached a point where I didn’t think it was sustainable, because I was knackered.

“Little country pubs, as lovely as they are, and everyone wants them on their doorstep,

Tebbutt originally learned his trade in Michelin star kitchens in London, training under Marco Pierre White and Sally Clarke. And despite having to get up at 5am to film Saturday Kitchen, the hours are “a walk in the park” compared to life in a professional kitchen.

“When I first got into TV and you do 10-hour days or something, and you’d have people saying, ‘Are you OK?’, ‘Do you need to sit down?’, ‘Do you need a drink?’ – no, I’m fine! When you’re used to working 18-hour days in sometimes horrible conditions, everything [else] is a breeze.”

Tebbutt was first attracted to life in the kitchen after reading White Heat by Marco Pierre White when he was 16. “It just made chefs look really cool and sexy and really, really rock and roll. It was the first cookbook that had this dirty-looking, kind of rugged chef producing the most beautiful place of food.

Matt Tebbutt’s Pub Food by Matt Tebbutt is published in hardback by Quadrille on August 29, priced £26. Photography by Chris Terry.

ABOVE

Matt Tebbutt’s rack of lamb with baby gem lettuce, peas, mint and bacon | Chris Terry/PA

ABOVE

Matt Tebbutt, author of Pub Food | Chris Terry/PA

Chris Terry/PA

INGREDIENTS

Olive oil

2 x 8-bone racks of lamb

Salt and pepper

4 sprigs fresh thyme, leaves picked

75g unsalted butter

4 medium baby gem lettuces, halved

200g pancetta or bacon, diced

4 garlic cloves, peeled and thinly sliced

100g fresh shelled peas, blanched and refreshed

800ml lamb stock

4 sprigs fresh mint, leaves picked and torn, plus extra to garnish

INGREDIENTS

2 smoked haddock fillets

1.5 litres whole milk

1 bunch fresh dill, chopped

60g unsalted butter, melted

50g strong Cheddar, grated

1 tbsp crème fraîche or double cream

3 free-range eggs, separated

1 ready-made 22cm round shortcrust pastry case

Salt and pepper

To serve:

Mixed green salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice

Lemon wedges

Rack of lamb SERVES 4

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C/400°F/Gas 6.

2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large frying pan. Season the lamb fat with salt and pepper, then fry fat side down for a few minutes over a high heat until browned.

3. Turn over, put into a roasting tin and sprinkle with some of the fresh thyme. Roast in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes or to your liking. Leave to rest for 10 minutes before serving.

4. In another frying pan, add 15g of the butter and colour off the baby gem lettuces, cut side down, in the foaming butter. Throw in the diced pancetta, the garlic and remaining thyme, and sauté for a few minutes until coloured.

5. Add the peas and pour in the lamb stock. Bring to the boil and simmer for 2–3 minutes to warm everything through.

6. Cut the lamb into chops and place on a large serving dish. Throw the mint into the simmering stock along with the remaining butter. Stir in to enrich the sauce and give it a good sheen. Season carefully, as the pancetta may already have seasoned the stock sufficiently. Spoon around the lamb racks and serve garnished with the extra mint.

Smoked haddock souffle tart SERVES

4

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C/400°F/Gas 6.

2. Place the haddock and milk in a large saucepan and poach for 8–10 minutes or until cooked through.

3. Remove the fish, leave to cool and break the haddock into flakes. Place the haddock in a bowl and stir in the dill, melted butter, cheese and crème fraîche and season with salt and pepper. Add the egg yolks and mix to combine.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk the whites until stiff peaks form. Fold the egg whites gently through the haddock mixture.

5. Spoon the haddock mixture into the tart shell and bake for 35 minutes or until the filling has risen and the pastry is golden.

6. Serve the tart in slices with a green salad, and a lemon wedge for squeezing over.

Chris Terry/PA

Chocolate pudding and mascarpone ice cream

MAKES 10-12 LITTLE PUDDINGS

INGREDIENTS

For the mascarpone:

350ml water

150g caster sugar

Finely grated zest and juice (about 75ml) of 2 unwaxed lemons

400g mascarpone cheese

For the chocolate puddings:

250g dark chocolate, broken into pieces

250g unsalted butter

125g caster sugar

1 tsp freshly ground star anise, sieved (remove the seeds from the pod, and crush in a pestle and mortar), optional

5 medium free-range eggs

5 medium free-range egg yolks

50g plain flour

A pinch of salt

Good-quality cocoa powder, to serve

1. Start both the ice cream and cake the day before. For the ice cream, simply boil the water, sugar and lemon zest in a saucepan. Once the sugar has dissolved, remove from the heat and stir in the mascarpone with the lemon juice. Cool and chill in an ice-cream maker (be careful not to over-churn). Freeze in a suitable container.

2. For the chocolate pudding, melt the chocolate and butter in a bowl over a saucepan of hot water. In a bowl, whisk the sugar, powdered anise, whole eggs and egg yolks until light and pale. Slowly add the melted chocolate to the egg and sugar mixture. Carefully fold in the flour and salt. Pour the mixture into little 200ml non-stick moulds, filling them halfway. Chill in the fridge overnight.

3. Next day, preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/Gas 4.

4. Remove the pudding batter from the fridge, bring to room temperature and bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, no longer. The outside of the cake mix should be set firm yet the middle will remain molten.

5. Serve the cake hot with the mascarpone ice cream and a dusting of cocoa powder, if liked.

Chris Terry/PA

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, 686 Christchurch Rd, Bournemouth, BH7 6BT

Kym Marsh to star as Cruella De Vil

In the new adaptation of 101 Dalmatians the Musical, from 22 – 26 October 2024

Kym Marsh plays the iconic villain Cruella de Vil in the musical written by Douglas Hodge (music and lyrics) and Johnny McKnight (book), from a stage adaptation by Zinnie Harris. The director is Bill Buckhurst, with sets designed by David Woodhead, costumes designed by Sarah Mercadé and choreography by Lucy Hind. Musical supervision is from Alfonso Casado Trigo, orchestration by Jack Hopkins, the puppets are designed by Jimmy Grimes, with lighting by James Whiteside and sound design from Chris Whybrow. The musical director is Leigh Thompson, and casting director is Lucy Casson.

Actor, presenter and singer Kym Marsh arrived on British TV screens back in 2000 appearing on the hit reality TV show Popstars, and winning a place in the subsequent band Hear’say. The band achieved two UK number one singles and a number one album - and Kym went on to pursue a successful career as a solo artist. She went on to star in London’s West End, playing the role of Annette in the critically acclaimed musical Saturday Night Fever.

An accomplished actress, she appeared in BBC One’s Doctors and Channel 4’s Hollyoaks: In The City before joining the cast of ITV’s Coronation Street in the role of Michelle Connor in 2006.

During 14 years on Britain’s famous cobbles, she won a string of prestigious awards for her work before leaving to pursue other roles. Since then she has appeared in hit BBC One drama The Syndicate and currently can be seen on BBC One’s continuing drama Waterloo Road, where she plays the role of Nicky Walters.

PICTURED

(ABOVE) Jessie Elland (Danielle), Samuel Thomas (Tom) and Company; (LEFT) Kym Marsh (Cruella de Vil) and Company | Photos credit Johan Persson

Her love of theatre has not waned and in 2022 Kym returned to tread the boards in the role of bunny boiler Alex Forest in a nationwide tour of box office hit Fatal Attraction. Last year she joined the cast of Take That musical Greatest Days.

When fashionista Cruella de Vil plots to swipe all the Dalmatian puppies in town to create her fabulous new fur coat, there’s trouble ahead for Pongo and Perdi and their litter of adorable, tail-wagging young pups.

This classic canine caper is brought to life on stage with spectacular puppetry, show-stopping choreography, hilarious songs and irresistible puppies!

Kym Marsh said: “I’m over the moon to be joining the cast of 101 Dalmatians playing the iconic Cruella De Vil, has there ever been a more fabulous baddie?! Obviously she’s a million miles away from me in real life

- and my dogs are very glad about that - but being able to bring to life my take on this renowned character is a real treat. Douglas and Johnny have written this brilliant new musical filled with songs I’m already finding myself humming under my breath. The 101 Dalmatians story spans generations and I’m sure young and old alike will absolutely love this production.”

Original production first performed at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, London in 2022.

Tickets for 101 Dalmatians (Tuesday 22 – Saturday 26 October 2024) are on sale at mayflower.org.uk or 02380 711811.

ABOVE

101 Dalmatians The Musical Tour | Photo credit is Oliver Rosser, Feast Creative.

What’s on IN OCTOBER

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.

WAR HORSE

08 - 19 OCTOBER

War Horse is an unforgettable theatrical experience which takes audiences on an extraordinary journey from the fields of rural Devon to the trenches of First World War France. Based on the beloved novel by Michael Morpurgo, this powerfully moving and imaginative drama, filled with stirring music and songs, is a show of phenomenal inventiveness.

At the outbreak of World War One, Joey, young Albert’s beloved horse, is sold to the Cavalry and shipped to France. He’s soon caught up in enemy fire, and fate takes him on an extraordinary journey, serving on both sides before finding himself alone in No Man’s Land. Albert, who remained on his parents’ Devon farm, cannot forget Joey. Though still not old enough to enlist, he embarks on a treacherous mission to find Joey and bring him home.

MAYFLOWER THEATRE

www.mayflower.org.uk

STUDLAND’S WICKED WILDLIFE TRAIL

26 OCTOBER03 NOVEMBER

Their Wicked Wildlife family trail will take you along the beach as well as through dunes and woodland. Find out some creepy crawly facts as you complete the activity stations on your way round and learn about the wildlife we share this special place with. Test your balance and observation skills and get creative too! Booking not needed.

The suggested time to do the trail is roughly one hour. You can take as long as you need.

NATIONAL TRUST

STUDLAND BAY

www.nationaltrust.org.uk

ARTISTS IN PURBECK: SPIRIT OF PLACE AT RUSSELL-COTES

ART

GALLERY & MUSEUM

12 OCTOBER - 16 MARCH

The Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum, Bournemouth, is thrilled to announce the opening of Artists in Purbeck: Spirit of Place, the first exhibition dedicated solely to artists who captured the essence of Purbeck, Dorset, since the beginning of the 20th century.

Featuring over 70 works, the exhibition provides a unique opportunity to explore the Isle of Purbeck over time, through the eyes of artists who capture its ever evolving beauty. Artists in Purbeck: Spirit of Place opens on Saturday 12 October 2024 at the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum, Bournemouth, and runs until 16 March 2025.

RUSSELL-COTES ART GALLERY & MUSEUM www.russellcotes.com

Pamela Raith Photography

OCTOBER

HALF TERM

26 OCTOBER03 NOVEMBER

Calling all adventerous teddy’s! Bring your own teddy or borrow a furry Corfe Castle veteran to zoom over the great ditch on our teddy zip wire. While they’re there, they can celp us inspect the work of the conservators as they carry out essential work.

Join in with their new castle critters family quest. Find the hidden critters that call the castle home and explore the ruins to discover how they help or hinder us looking after the castle. Complete a quest sheet to earn your conservation token.

CORFE CASTLE

www.nationaltrust.org.uk

MUGENKYO TAIKO DRUMMERS

24 OCTOBER

Join the celebration of Mugenkyo’s landmark 30th anniversary, with a very special show of big beats, visual treats and vital energy at Lighthouse Poole on Thursday 24 October.

Taking the audience on a journey in time, a thrilling ride through their 30 years, the concert is a full theatrical experience, with dynamic choreography and heartpounding rhythms contrasting with atmospheric soundscapes.

Mugenkyo push the boundaries of the art-form with their genre-crossing collaborations: with violin, piano and voice for the BBC World Showcase, with fiddle, tabla and Indian dance for the Edinburgh Mela Festival, with Scottish bagpipes for BBC Scotland, and with electronic music at Glastonbury.

LIGHTHOUSE, POOLE

www.lighthousepoole.co.uk

GORCOMBE PUMPKINS

01 - 31 OCTOBER

GORCOMBE FARM www.gorcombe.co.uk

SWANAGE BLUES FESTIVAL

03 - 06 OCTOBER

VARIOUS VENUES, SWANAGE www.swanage-blues.org

WEYMOUTH OCTOBERFEST

04 - 05 OCTOBER

THE ESPLANADE www.camrawdorset.org.uk

SWAN LAKE

30 OCTOBER

BOURNEMOUTH PAVILION THEATRE www.bournemouthpavilion.co.uk

GUIDED

BAT WALK

31 OCTOBER

CORFE CASTLE www.nationaltrust.org.uk

It is time to TAKE A BREAK

Pop the kettle on, put your feet up and take 10 minutes to engage your brain and solve these simple puzzles.

ACROSS CRYPTIC CLUES

3. Massacre (9)

8. Ceiling (4)

9. All agreed (9)

10. Hate (6)

11. Wept (5)

14. Teach (5)

15. Bowl (4)

16. Hoarse (5)

18. Genuine (4)

20. Refute (5)

21. Stagger (5)

24. Fat (6)

25. Guide (9)

26. Tidings (4)

27. Subway (9)

DOWN CRYPTIC CLUES

1. Preying (9)

2. Depiction (9)

4. Loaned (4)

5. Proprietor (5)

6. Collided (6)

7. Assassin (4)

9. Employing (5)

11. Divan (5)

12. Incredulity (9)

13. Gloss over (9)

17. Monk (5)

19. Wolf-like (6)

22. Muscle seizure (5)

23. Daybreak (4)

24. Pitch (4)

LAST ISSUES SUDOKU SOLUTION