iNMag Essex Mag 2013 by iN DPP Ltd

ROBERT

BURGERMAN

ICE KING

Enabling Evie

A MOTHER’S STORY

n i W MONACO

GRAND

PRIX DAY

BENTLEY

The Flying Spur

A MAN’S WORLD

FASHION

ake up! The new collections are arriving, spring is on its way. As my mind awakens from its winter slumber and the first rays of the spring sun stream through the window, I walk to my wardrobe and I am met by a sea of black. I am not sure why I seek solace in its arms, but as I ponder on what to wear, my wardrobe screams at me, ‘COLOUR!’ March is about new energy and I am not willing to entertain another dreary day. Seeking vibrancy In what I wear, in the activities I chose, and who I share my days with. March shouts girlie get togethers, shopping excursions, walks in the forest and plenty of colour. And of course Mother’s Day! So kids, if you are reading - homemade cards, breakfast in bed, a bouquet of flowers and a tidy house please. So whats in our March issue? I caught up with Robert Burgerman, to talk about his career, ‘Dancing On Ice’ and coaching Pamela Anderson. I went to the book launch of Essex Girls by Laura Ziepe at The Brickyard Bar & Grill. Sue Lovett shares the heartbreaking story of young Evie Shears and the courage of her mum, Amiey and dad, James. Caroline Polledri shares the zany ways of her mum, ‘Moot’ and their day excursion on Mother’s Day. (Don’t try it at home!) We take a peaky look at the new ME Hotel in London which oozes style and sophistication and if this isn’t enough, you can enter our competition to win a day at The Grand Prix in May on board a luxury yacht, for you and your friend. So until April Zoe Hopkins - Tweet: @zoehopkinsiNMag

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What’s On Guide

Dates For Your March Diary

The Ice King

Interview With Robert Burgerman

Competition

A Day At The Monaco Grand Prix

Essex Girls Book Launch

Brickyard Bar & Grill

Enabling Evie

A Mother’s Tale

Fashion

It’s A Man’s World

Girl About Town

Mother's Day

The Kings Oak

Raising Money For MACS Charity

New London Hot-Spot

Hotel Me

Essex News & Gossip

Hot Off The Press...

Motoring Bentley's ‘Flying Spur’

Property Sponsored By Savills

Family Issues

Seddons Solicitors

Front Cover: Front Cover Courtesy of Jacamo

What every Mum needs is a little indulgence to calm her mind and soothe her senses. This luxury collection includes an indulgent array of skincare fav’s ensuring the perfect head-to-toe pampering experience. £39 www.timetospa.co.uk

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When you have finished reading this magazine, help the environment and please recycle.

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The Team We love our Mums. They have been our rocks when our worlds have been crumbling and hold many of our secrets - here the iN Team share a caring moment. Zoe Hopkins Publisher & Editor zoe@in-magazine.com

I bought my Mum her first ‘posh’ Louis Vuitton handbag and matching purse, with my first ever wage packet.’ Ashleigh Mandie Art Editor ashleigh@in-magazine.com

‘My ‘Moot’ is my best-friend, so every moment I spend with her or share is precious to me.’

March 2013 iN Mag Essex T: 020 3478 4431 Publishing Director & Editor - Zoe Hopkins zoe@in-magazine.com editor@in-magazine.com Fashion Editor - Rose Keen rose@in-magazine.com Beauty Editor - Bettina Hunt info@in-magazine.com / @BeautySwot Art Director - Ashleigh Mandie ashleigh@in-magazine.com Advertising Sales Executive - Emma Morris T: 07834 472029 emma@in-magazine.com Advertising Sales Executive - Sally Bartholomew T: 07585 661688 sally@in-magazine.com Advertising Sales Executive - Sarah Halton T: 07553 202125 sarah@in-magazine.com

Emma Morris Advertising Sales Executive emma@in-magazine.com

‘Too many moments! She knows she is one of the most important people in my life.’ Sarah Halton Advertising Sales Executive sarah@in-magazine.com

Senior Writer - Sue Lovett info@in-magazine.com Motoring Correspondent - Russell Campbell motoring@in-magazine.com Accounts - Paul Wynn accounts@in-magazine.com Subscriptions Subscribe and receive all iN Magazine news, the E-Zine and offers. www.in-magazine.com/subscribe Words Zoe Hopkins, Caroline Polledri, Deborah Jeff, Bettina Hunt.

‘Surprise trips home always go down well.’

www.in-magazine.com

Sally Bartholomew Advertising Sales Executive sally@in-magazine.com

All rights reserved. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those shared with the publisher. The publisher cannot accept any responsibility for any errors or omissions relating to advertising or editorial and cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent from the publisher.

‘My mum asked me not to go back to Thailand when I lived there, I stayed for her.’ Paul Wynn Accounts accounts@in-magazine.com

‘Every time I see my mum, I make sure she knows how much I care.’ Page 4

To advertise your business call: 020 3478 4431

Contributor DEBORAH JEFF I started the Family Department at Seddons, London because I’m passionate about combining immaculate client service with clear legal advice before, during and after relationships. Couples should receive everything the law can offer them no matter what stage of their relationship, and I’m delighted to offer assistance to iN readers, here.

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ZOE HOPKINS TALKS TO THE ‘ICE KING’ HIMSELF, ROBERT BURGERMAN, A PROFESSIONAL ICE-SKATING COACH, ABOUT HIS LIFE, OVERCOMING HARDSHIPS AND HIS OBSESSION WITH THE ICE.

In Essex we all love a celeb, who is the most famous person you have skated with or taught?

What was the hardest challenge you have had to overcome?

Without a doubt, Pamela Anderson this year in ‘Dancing On Ice’. Pamela took a stumble and the person with the cleanest performance went through, which meant she was knocked out in the first round. She had so much potential, I really believe if she hadn’t of lost her footing she would be still there, right through to the final.

I was working in a minority sport so it was hard raising the capital to fund the training. When I was competing on the ice every level created new challenges. Keeping focused was also a big ask; whilst I was winning medals I was happy. I suppose my hardest challenge was admitting to myself the time had come to stop. Seventeen years of skating, I was British Champion and a member of the Olympic Team, but I felt my knowledge of the sport was better than my ability and at this point I had to admit to myself it was now time to stop competing.

You are held in high regard within the industry. At what age did you begin to skate and where did it all start? I started when I was six years old. I fancied a girl in my school and she used to skate, so I joined the same ice skating group. From there on, I fell in love with the sport. Ice Skating had huge profile, Torvil and Dean had just won the Olympics. I looked up to them and aspired to be as great as them. Was ice skating your parents vision? Without my parents and grandparents there was no way I could have funded the sport. But as for vision, I knew from early on I was destined to skate. I would get up at 4am every morning to fit in training before school, and then back to the ice rink once school had ended. I was so dedicated, it was my life. I suppose it still is! Page 8

Your body must change shape, dramatically when skating. Does a skater have a particular shape? Yes, the intensity of ice skating creates an amazing body! You tone every muscle in every shape and form. Mix it with a good diet and the gym and you will quickly see your physique change. Do you need to have natural balance? Not really. It’s a technical based sport and the balance does come once you get the technique, then you can prepare for the finer detail. The faster you go, the better balanced you’ll be.

To advertise your business call: 020 3478 4431

You also trained Lauren Goodger for ‘Dancing On Ice’. How long did it take until you were confident about her ability? I always felt Lauren’s ability was better than she thought it was! Lauren didn’t have the confidence or self believe, she had great potential but she needed to believe it, so she struggled early on. It’s difficult for any coach when you can feel your pupil’s fear. Extracting your pupil’s fear is the hardest task for a coach. You have an Ice Skating Academy at Lee Valley Ice Centre. Tell us what the lessons offer? The lessons are for any age and any ability. I teach solo, group or corporate clients and my classes can be tailor-made to suit the individuals requirements. Skating is great for fitness, for a social or if you want to compete. It kept me out of trouble as a kid and it’s fantastic I can offer the same opportunities I had to other children. Are you secretly looking for the next Torvil & Dean? Absolutely, wouldn't it be amazing to find new, raw talent! Not only that... Ice skating gives a feel good factor, puts smiles on kid’s faces and is great for fitness. It gets kids off their computers, keep’s them away from the TV or Playstation and is a really fun, enjoyable sport which is rewarding to teach.

Robert Burgerman is available for tutoring for all ages at Lee Valley Ice Centre. For more information contact ice-burg.co.uk or call 07950 255 562 or email robert@ice-burg.co.uk Get a glimpse of Robert in he training sessions in the finals of ‘Dancing On Ice’ 13 on 10 March ITV1, 6.15pm. Follow Robert on Twitter @ice_burg

To advertise your business call: 020 3478 4431

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To advertise your business call: 020 3478 4431

Competition Enjoy the ultimate luxurious experience at the Monaco Grand Prix on Thursday 23 May. It is the highlight of the World F1 Race Calendar and being a spectator at this glamorous and prestigious event from the comfort of our private yacht, is the most unique and exciting way to be part of the gripping spectacle.

13 MONACO GRAND PRIX - LUXURY YACHT HOSPITALITY TEASER DAY FOR TWO PRIZE DETAILS At 9am, you and your guest will board a luxury Yacht in Port of Monaco, where you will be greeted by the Design Hospitality team where you will watch the Monaco Grand Prix Practice session whilst in the luxury surroundings of the yacht. You and your guest will feast upon a gourmet luncheon and have full use of an all inclusive Champagne bar. On your return home, you will be handed branded memorabilia as a memento of your experience.

The minimum age to enter the competition is 25. Please log on to in-magazine.com/march comp and answer the following question: Who was the last British F1 champion?

Designed for You...

Design Hospitality creates ‘once in a lifetime’ experiences at handpicked venues, with the high expectations of their clients Design Hospitality’s first-hand knowledge and expertise is enhanced by their connections to legendary sportsmen. They ensure the ultimate luxury in specialised bespoke corporate packages, making Design Hospitality the perfect choice for an unforgetable experience.

If you would like to book your place at the Monaco Grand Prix or commission Design Hospitality to create a bespoke event for you, call Ian on 07739 129 094. www.f1monacogp.com TERMS AND CONDITIONS Prize valid for Thursday 23 May and is not transferable. Guests must be 25 years or over. The prize value is non refundable. Land package only. Flights to be booked separately and is not included in the prize. Not available to employees of iN Mag Essex or their families. The competition closes on 30 March 13 and will be drawn at random. By entering the competition you agree to supply a photo for press use and give permission for iN Mag Essex & Design Hospitality to use your data for PR & marketing purposes.

FOR MORE INFORMATION vISIT WWW.F1MONACOGP.COM To advertise your business call: 020 3478 4431

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ESSEX

Girls

BOOK LAUNCH THE BRICKYARD BAR & GRILL, ROMFORD, PLAYED HOST TO THE BOOK LAUNCH OF LAURA ZIEPE’S DEBUT NOvEL ESSEX GIRLS, A PERFECT EXCUSE FOR A GLAMOROUS NIGHT OUT AT THE END OF A DREARY MONTH. Laura’s friends and family mingled with photographers whilst Sparkle by Hollie Jane, a beauty salon in Gidea Park, set up a mini manicure station for guests. The most amazing goody bags were provided by Buzzy Bags - fully customised for the book launch, and contained treats from Lash Boutique, Essex Candy Cart, Bling Unique Boutique and Sparkle Essex Beautician.

s Laura Ziepe, a former pupil from Shenfield High School, signed copies of her book supplied by Waterstones, Laura chatted to guests who sipped glasses of Martini Prosecco and Chambord, whilst the boys were very happy with cool bottles of Asahi beer. Photographers hovered outside as the stars of TOWIE arrived. Danni Park-Dempsey and Jasmin Walia looked as glamorous as ever, perfectly manicured for an evening at The Brickyard. Page 12

Essex Girls by Laura Ziepe is available from Waterstones and is priced at £6.99. if you want to have a good giggle with a fun read about the Essex places we love to visit, this is a book for you. This is your perfect commute read! The Brickyard Bar & Grill, 222 South St, Town Centre, Romford RM1 2AD. 01708 743167. www.the-brickyard.co.uk. Thursdays - Two for one sirloin steak night, with a glass of wine. Sunday - Sunday lunch from £9.95.

Sue Lovett shares the story of a beautiful baby, Evie Shears. Loughton mum, Aimey and dad, James celebrated their daughters first birthday in January, which marked the end of a traumatic year. The sequence of events leading up to their daughters first milestone could never have been predicted, not even in their worst nightmares.

Aimey’s pregnancy had been normal until the final stages of labour and on 18 January 2012, at 7.27am, Evelyn Shears came into the world suffocated as she had been starved of oxygen during the delivery. ‘I was ready mentally and physically to give birth,’ says Aimey, ‘I had the usual anxieties but felt prepared. After Evelyn had been born, she was whisked away, and James had to go with her. It was thirty minutes before I knew if she was alive or dead. At one point I asked myself: ‘Have I died ?’as I thought this must be hell.’ Evie had suffered severe trauma at birth. For the first three days of her life she was cooled through a procedure called therapeutic hypothermia. Drastically lowering her body temperature, tiny Evie was put into an induced coma in the hope the treatment would cool her developing brain and slow down the rate of cell damage. Aimey remembers the poignant moment:

answers,’ Aimey explained, ‘Each doctor would say: 'We can't predict the future'. Yet they would whisper in the corridor about what they really thought. James and I had a terrible gut feeling it was bad news as they let more people in the waiting area, gave us things we hadn’t ask for or needed, and smiled all the time. Our minds were full of horrific possibilities. We Googled ‘brain injury’ and ‘cerebral palsy’, the words ‘normal intelligence but trapped in a body that can not function’ made both James and I feel physically sick. I remember finding ourselves sitting in a local pub opposite the hospital, feeling cold, lost and terrified of the prospect of watching our child suffer for the rest of her life.'

‘As a first time parent I was forced into a situation of shock and fear, feeling huge waves of guilt. This little baby was lying in an incubator, and she was mine. Nothing about what had just happened allowed me to feel anything but fear and isolation.’

Whilst still coming to terms with Evie’s diagnosis, two weeks later, Aimey and James were hit with another devastating blow. Evie was found to have cancer of both eyes, a rare condition called retinoblastoma. ‘Nothing can prepare you for the words: 'There are tumours’. I said: ‘But they can be removed, right?’ We were met with blank faces and concerned expressions. We had no choice but to place our little girl under the care of Great Ormond Street Hospital to undergo vigorous chemotherapy treatment to try to save her sight. The memory of sitting in the back of the ambulance will never leave me. My eyes flicking between James' face and Evie, who was just laying there, so tiny in a transport incubator. I could do nothing but sob uncontrollable tears.’ Aimey says.

MRI scans revealed that Evie had suffered severe hypoxic damage significant brain damage in many areas. ‘We were desperate for

The chemotherapy was aggressive, leaving little Evie incredibly distressed, in much pain and being sick. Difficult enough for any new

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born, Evie’s discomfort was compounded as she had to be fed through her nose in a tube carrying food and medicine to the stomach. Aimey remembers,

‘We had been plunged into a world we couldn’t have imagined. Following Evie’s chemotherapy, we had to wear surgical gloves just to touch her, whilst the toxic remnants worked its way out of her tiny body. We learnt to feed her using a tube and managed the meticulous cleaning of the equipment. If the tube came out, we were expected to put it back, holding Evie screaming and writhing whilst shoving the tube up her nose, then trying to hold it in place whilst attaching a syringe to the end to draw up the contents of her stomach, to ensure it was in the right place. Then we would tape it to her red raw cheek. The slightest lapse could lead to a possible blockage or infection which would mean a lengthy traumatic visit to A&E. It was a living nightmare.’ The family soon learnt to be scrupulous regarding hygiene, constantly using hand sanitizers and antibacterial sprays and carefully managed visitors to their home whilst Evie had a compromised immune system. ‘With the various medications, difficulties with feeding, vomiting and discomfort in Evie’s muscles, she was constantly unsettled, all she wanted was to be rocked day and night in a kind of fireman’s carry.’ Aimey explains, ‘There was very little sleep for any of us. James and I were exhausted and totally lost at what we should do to relieve our daughter’s pain. We were both dancing round the edge of desperation and insanity, wondering how any one in a medical profession could discharge a baby when she was vomiting every hour.’ In late April 2012, Evie had an eye examination under anaesthetic at the Royal London Hospital and finally they were given some positive news. The scan revealed the tumours were responding to treatment, they appeared flatter. There was still a long way to go, the tumours had to be shrunk even further to give Evie the best chance of sight, but the positive news was met with enthusiasm by all. Having struggled on their own for four long months, Social Services at last offered the family some support at home, to allow them a very small respite.

Aimey and James had shifted light-years from the carefree couple they used to be. They had lost one income, and did not know how to fund what laid ahead. ‘We went to the Citizen's Advice Bureau for advice and it would seem, if we split up we were entitled to far more help. It was crazy, the help was just not out there’ It was a daunting realisation, of how vast the cost of Evie’s future care was likely to be. To prepare for the inevitable, James began to work twelve hour days, plus Saturdays. In contrast, Aimey’s role as Head of Drama in a local school, had changed dramatically to a 24/7 carer. ‘Evie’s care regime is so hard. At 6am she wakes distressed and in need of serious attention. I remove the trapped bile from her stomach, administer her 7.30am drugs. I add milk to her milk pump (which she’s attached to for twenty hours a day), then it's an hour of facial massage and food swipes, followed by an hour of body massage and physiotherapy. From there on, her day is full of various therapies. Evie has carers to help both her and me, for four hours a day. In the afternoon we have various visitors from different services: physiotherapists, dieticians, play workers (portage), community nurses, community nursery nurse and our social worker who ensures everyone communicates. Evie finally has a break from her milk pump between 6-10pm. This means a couple of hours without vomiting and discomfort. James bathes her which is followed by more massage, then evening medication at 10pm which helps Evie to sleep. She is awake a couple of hours later, which is then followed by her 2am medication, which helps Evie with another two hours sleep, and then round we go again. Its not a life we dreamed of - it feels like hell on earth somedays. I tell myself I’ve had thirty years of stress free living and now it’s time to dig in my heels and get on with the job of caring for our daughter the best I can. The heartache is part of me now and I can’t see how the pain will ever ease, but I do know we will always do our very best for our daughter.’ As their plight became public knowledge, many people contacted Aimey and James to start raising awareness for Evie. Aimey explains.

‘It has been completely overwhelming. When we set up twitter, our followers crept up to 500 in one week. We received tweets from all over the world, even Russell Brand!’ To raise essential awareness through the Tree of Hope Charity, James’s went on to climb the Three Peaks and his friend Simon organised a football day. Aimey’s best friend Jodie set up Evie’s website. ‘Jodie has been a rock for the entire family. We are blessed to have so many amazing friends,’ Aimey enthuses. ‘In a situation like ours, it's easy to alienate people or for people to feel they aren't able to help as they feel they should, and in some cases it rings true. The reality is, I don't have time for worrying about when the last time a friend has called. I just know when I see them, I'm relieved of their love and company, their jokes and stories from the life we used to share.’ In an attempt to control Evie’s vomiting, specialist nurses monitored her at St Christopher’s Shooting Star children’s hospice. ‘No matter how we cuddle, rock or massage our precious little girl, we struggle to ease her constant distress. We also knew Evie desperately needed to gain weight to ensure she was strong enough for more chemotherapy to help try shrink the tumours in her eyes.’ Aimey shares. Page 15

The decision was made to put Evie on a continuous feed, administered by a pump through her tube. Although this helped ease the vomiting. She stopped losing weight, but she wasn’t gaining it either. Having just completed chemotherapy session number four of six, Evie developed an infection in the Hickman line (the permanent tube used for administering chemotherapy). The side effects of the antibiotics to clear the infection, together with her other medications made her stomach cramps even more painful. Doctors concluded that alternative feeding options would have to be explored.

‘Evie’s difficulties seemed to grow greater by the day. Life felt so hard at this point, every day brought another challenge. Evie seemed unable to cope with feeding, one of the most basic skills of life.’ It was now June, and after Evie’s sixth chemotherapy treatment, she was sick with such force her feeding tube became dislodged which meant it had to be painfully reinserted up through Evie’s little nose, down the back of her throat and into her stomach whilst in hospital. This happened several times. It was such an upsetting time for Evie, Aimey and James, made even worse, as incredibly it took two weeks before the correct size tube could be found. Only then was Evie able to keep sufficient food down to stabilise her weight. The whole episode was frustrating and frightening to watch. Page 16

By mid August, Aimey and James received the news Evie’s tumours were ‘stable’ and so the family were plunged into a game of wait and see - Evie would need a further scan in six weeks time. Evie was now seven months old. Then followed an operation and a nine day stay at Great Ormond Street to replace the troublesome feeding tube with a PEG (percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy). The new feeding tube was passed directly into Evie’s stomach through the abdominal wall, into her small intestine. But there was to be yet another set-back in the chaos which seemed to have dominated Evie’s care. Not only did the skin on her tummy become sore and ulcerated, the tube itself was too big. ‘Unbelievably, the hospital did not have any smaller tubes and the impact of this on James and I was awful. We knew the tube shouldn’t be moved too much for risk of soreness and infection, but it was so long it hung down to Evie’s knees, causing painful scratches on her skin. It was an impossible task to keep a small baby still. Let alone Evelyn whose condition meant she can’t control her movements. The tube was too big on the outside, and on the inside too, which meant we had the horrendous task of being given a syringe and removing the build up of acid inside Evie’s tummy.’

At seven-months-old Evie had endured more than most children do in a lifetime. Likewise for Aimey and James, even now they both still find meetings with doctors exhausting and daunting. ‘Often as many as twenty doctors and specialists are present at one time, discussing and offering opinions on the right care for Evie. Imagine how exhausting it is keeping up with the terminology and suggestions, as treatments and possible outcomes are banded about the room, often all at the same time. Whilst James and I, all the while try to remain confident that the conclusions reached are the right ones for Evie.’ As James and Aimey struggled with life, they were dealt another blow.

‘Our hope of the cancer treatments success was proved false. Scans showed the tumour in Evie’s left eye hadn’t responded to chemotherapy and although the tumours in her right eye had improved, painful laser treatment to both eyes would be required to prevent it from worsening. We were forced to make the difficult decision to allow Evie to have invasive IAM (intra arterial melphalan) treatment.’ A tube would be inserted into Evie’s groin, to deliver the powerful anti-tumour drug directly into the artery feeding the eye. Evie will

require check-ups every three weeks until she is three-years-old, with a general anaesthetic required every time. Then even more frightening news, the doctor’s are concerned Evie’s genetic makeup could mean she will have a vulnerability to a life-time of cancer. The distressing news seems relentless. Evie will have a life-time of ever-changing needs – specialist wheelchairs (the NHS provide only the very basic model), specialist therapies, specialist footwear, even specialist clothing such as the special suit she recently received (dynamic movement orthotic suit). Made to measure and made very tight, it helps her skin to send messages to her brain, making her feel safe, helping her to understand where her body is in her own surrounding.

‘You and I know when we lay on a bed all the messages from our skin tell us where our body is, imagine for Evie, hers are all blocked and all she must feel is constant vertigo.’ The suit also aids a healthier posture which help prevent deformities of the spine, hips, ribs and shoulders, although this will be a life long battle. The list of Evie’s future needs is endless. The future for Evie will undoubtedly be one of medications, treatments and hospital visits. But both her mummy and daddy’s hearts have been warmed by the incredible support from friends, family and from people who they haven’t even met. And so, incredibly, Aimey and James remain positive and continue to battle, as they always will, for the best possible treatment for their little Evie.

The awareness for Evie continues. On 20 April 2013 ‘The Butterfly Ball’ will be held at the Chigwell Police Club to raise vital funds through the Tree of Hope Charity. Tickets are £65 per head for a fabulous evening of good food and entertainment. If you have been touched by Evie’s story, perhaps you can donate an auction or raffle item for the event - or even a holiday home for a week in 2013. To find out more about Evie, her story in film so far, visit the family on enablingevie.co.uk and follow her on twitter @enablingevie You can donate directly to Evie’s JustGiving site. All donations, however small, are thankfully received.

www.justgiving.com/enablingevie Words by Sue Lovett

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Beauty

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with Bettina Hunt

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Melvita Apicosma Creamy Cleansing Milk (3 honeys complex) £15 www.uk.melvita.com

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n now k d n nd us a licio cterial a ney has e d d a urite s, ho ntib et an Swe aving a ropertie re's favo p for h xidant e of natu incare test k o a i n ant been o sed in s , these l g this s U g e lon dients. enturi arnessin nd c e ingr ucts for cts are h enefits a d pro ty produ roven b oft and p beau r, have r skin s u e pow leave yo eous. Jo Malone Nectarine will ing gorg Blossom and Honey Cologne l £38 smel

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Welcome to iN’s society column, ‘Girl About Town’. As our wonderful Magazine is a monthly publication, this being March means that our Mag will be influenced by Mother’s Day and how much we love them. (Our Moots!)

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s Mother’s Day approaches, a day which reminds us all of how special our mothers are and, if a mother ourselves, we are destined to feel extra ‘love’ from our children on this day. Naturally, I will be trying my hardest to make my mum feel appreciated and, as I do every year, I have come up with a number of ideas. Some of our best Mother’s Day moments have been when on a day trip. Mum is a big fan of seeing the sights in London, watching a show or visiting a gallery, and because I love her, it’s what I like to arrange. ‘Pretty straight forward,’ I hear you say? And yes, for most daughters arranging a day out for their mums, I would agree, should be pretty straight forward. But, when it comes to mine, weirdly, these events always end with a bit of a twist. Shall we say a twist in the way of my mum’s unconventional ways! (You may remember last year, when I regaled the tale of my mum shopping all day with her trousers on inside out – if not, well now you get my drift!) So last year, there we were celebrating Mother’s Day on a wonderful tour of Buckingham Palace. Floating through the regal hallway, perusing the renaissance art, admiring the royal china when we decide to use the loo. ‘Ooh,’ I said. ‘I wonder if the Queens ever used this loo?’ My mum didn’t answer straight away but instead lifted up her jumper declaring, ‘I bet she’s never done this!’ Front flashing, in the toilets of Buckingham Palace, where I am sure MI5 must have a camera and are still probably laughing about it now. (And people wonder where I get it from!)

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Happy Mother Day Moot – don’t ever change!

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Launches & Events

www.kingsoakhotel.com Tel. 020 8508 5000

OH WHAT A NIGHT! The Kings Oak in High Beach, Essex saw ITv film Simon Webbe, for his documentary, ‘A Day In The Life...’ on the evening of their MACS charity night. Blue fans, and the Essex finest gathered for a fun filled night and raised a staggering £2250 for the charity. On St Georges Day, 2011 the lives of Linzi Pollard, (proprietor’s), direct family were rocked as her first grandson was born with a rare condition called Anopthalmia, literally Linzi’s grandson Calum had been born without his eyes. ‘The MACS charity rallied around to support my daughter and sonin-law after Calum’s birth, and have continued to do so ever since.’ Linzi said. Linzi has been fund raising for MACS ever since. The fund raising evening saw Simon Webbe sing a few opening chords, dinner was served by several muscular butlers and The Kings Oak Hotel’s resident DJ Ben and guest singer Stacy Parsons created a high spirited party atmosphere. The Kings Oak Hotel’s suppliers and many local traders contributed prizes for the raffle to support Linzi and the event. Linzi said:

‘In Mag Essex and other local media have shown great support to our charity efforts and given recognition to MACS. Calum will be two this year and the whole family have come a long way since the anguish and trauma surrounding his birth. Our special little boy delights and amazes us all as we watch how he adapts to life without sight. We have managed to get him to stand but we are still awaiting his first steps. He thinks he is standing on the edge of a precipice every time he is on his feet. He has been invited to be the page-boy at his Godmothers wedding in Turkey this May. We know there will not be a dry eye at the ceremony if he manages to walk unaided down the aisle.’ If you would like to make a donation to support the MACS charity log on to www.justgiving.com/richard-crook, any donation no matter how small is gratefully welcomed. Linzi would like to say a huge thank you to: @Your Service for providing the Butlers, JS Entertainment and everyone who contributed their time and energy for the event. Not forgetting Simon Webbe for being The Kings Oak Hotel’s biggest fan. Thank you Page 31

ondon Fashion Week 13 saw a mirage of fashionistas making their journey to the recently launched flagship hotel, ME London - a design-led, lifestyle hotel located at the centre of the capital’s diverse art and cultural district. ME London is the place to stay, socialise, and dine whilst in a dramatic setting, over looking the finest backdrop of the London skyline. The property has 157 guest rooms, including 16 suites and ultra-luxurious Suite ME, a two-storey penthouse with 360-degree panorama of London. The Radio Bar is undoubtedly the hottest spot in London to be seen. Me London room rates are from £408 per night. Page 32

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ME London seeks to fuse innovative style to captivate those with a decisive taste for cuttingedge art and design, international cuisine and world music.’

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INTERIORS

THE RADIO BAR ituated in the original London home of BBC radio, ME London see’s their bar, lounge and terrace ‘Radio’ accessed by express lift to the 10th floor, which is open all day and into the night until 3am. With the cloud skimming views spanning from the heights of London, the rooftop bar at ME London brings lounging and social indulgence to a new height.

THE ATRIUM he Atrium is not only a Champagne bar but a minimalistic remarkable room housed within a nine-storey high pyramidal space, clad entirely in white marble with impressive light shows bringing the space to life.

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The bold black and white interior palette establishes a strong identity. Each individual space’s character is defined through variations in tone, texture and scale.

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THE INTERIOR he interior concept of the hotel fuses contemporary detailing with classical traditions, its dramatic monochrome palette a combination of rich textures and luxurious natural materials. The experience draws on the idea of yin and yang, as guests move from dark to light spaces – the crisp white bedrooms are reached by reflective black marble corridors, sculpted by the angled walls of the central pyramid. Page 34

MARCONI LOUNGE racing the ME London hotel lobby is the Marconi Lounge; named after Guglielmo Marconi, the inventor of the radio. Serving afternoon tea throughout the day and by late afternoon the mood shifts to an upbeat ME vibe creating a vibrant atmosphere with an amazing cocktail list in its friendly social environment.

There are currently ME Hotels in London, Madrid, Barcelona, Cancun, Cabo and a ME Vienna set to open in 2013. www.me-by-melia.com Page 35

IN MAG ESSEX... FIRST FOR CELEBRITY GOSSIP, BUSINESS NEWS, LAUNCHES & EVENTS HAPPENING IN THE GOLDEN TRIANGLE.

NEWS & GOSSIP

DUKE OF ESSEX POLO MOVES VENUE HOT OFF THE PRESS... THE DUKE OF ESSEX POLO HAS MOVED TO HYLANDS PARK, CHELMSFORD.

HUNT PROPERTY SERVICES LAUNCH NEW PREMISES Within a stones throw of Repton Park, the exclusive gated development in Chigwell, Hunt Property Services (HPS) opened their first retail premises, unveiled by The Mayor of Redbridge.

‘Having reached the point where we need a shop window rather than just a virtual one, we have finally found our ideal premises,’ says HPS Director Hayley Hunt. ‘In the most significant milestone since I formed the company, the Chigwell Road location couldn’t be better sited and makes us the closest estate agent, both physically and emotionally, to this special development.’ For more information about Hunt Property Services contact 020 8502 7667 or visit huntpropertyservices.co.uk

With a new team at the helm, Polo promises a new vibe, a new agenda, and a whole new VIP experience. Here at iN Mag we are slightly excited! There are even whispers of a door to door VIP experience, with Hylands House being in the mix. VIP marquees, headline music acts, family fun activities and country fayre with a luxury food village. After the mud mayhem of last year, this bit of gossip is a welcome to our ears. Pencil the 13 and 14 July into your diaries as tickets are soon to be released. As updates hit our news desk, we will keep you informed over Twitter and Facebook. @inmagazinetweet dukeofessexpolocup.com

DINGWUDDLES SPOTTED FILMING AT AMY CHILDS SALON, BRENTWOOD

LOCAL BOY DRUMS UP MONEY FOR COMIC RELIEF Jason Steggall, a fifteen year-old pupil from Chingford Foundation School, has set himself the zaniest challenge of completing a 40-hour drumming marathon at Loughton Music Academy. Jason will be playing through the night from 6am on March 13 until 10pm on March 14. Loughton Music Academy owner Cliff Cooper said: ‘We chose the Roland TDK 15 electronic drum kit over our other acoustic drums in the department as it will enable Jason to change sounds and add backing tracks as he plays to keep his game up.’ To leave a donation for Jason log onto: justgiving.com/Jason-Steggall40DM to cheer him on. For information about music lessons, language or GCSE sessions at Loughton Music Academy, ring 020 8502 2992. lmat.co.uk Page 38

The Dingwuddles team keep popping up everywhere! Spotted at the Amy Childs salon, we nippped in to see what the commotion was about. Invited by CAN Associates, Dingwuddles were recording a special moment for three special girls, all experiencing a VIP pamper day experience. The day was organised by The Joshua Foundation, a charity who grant the wishes of children with terminal cancer. Stef Knight who has Ewings sarcoma, a rare bone cancer said: ‘I used to watch TOWIE in hospital. It can be quite depressing on a ward but seeing Amy on screen used to cheer me up. Amy has been so lovely today and I’ve loved being pampered!’ Find out more about the charity at thejoshuafoundation.co.uk or amychildsofficial.co.uk or if you want your event filmed dingwuddles.com

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LOCAL BOXING EVENT RAISES £4,500 FOR HAVEN HOUSE Over 200 people turned out for the boxing extravaganza in aid of Haven House Hospital, who provide specialist care for children and young people (birth-19) who have life-limiting conditions and are unlikely to reach adulthood. Organised by the Lions Club for young people at the Prince Regent Hotel in Chigwell, guests saw boxing legend Jimmy McDonnell and amateur boxers from clubs all over London and the South East, show off their sparring skills to raise the much needed money.

DREAM MAKEOVER FINALIST THE WAIT IS NEARLY OVER.

For more information about Haven House’s 10th birthday calendar of events, visit havenhouse.org.uk/events

YOUNG SWIMMER WINS GOLD MEDAL Avon House Preparatory School pupil, Haimish Patel, struck gold at the Redbridge Mini Games Gala winning the 50m individual front crawl.

iN Mag would like to congratulate Haimish on such an outstanding achievement. avonhouseschool.co.uk

VINTAGE CHINA HIRE SERVICE NEW WEBSITE TO GO LIVE Exciting times for Love Vintage China - as they put the last finishing touches to their new website which we are promised to be live by the end of March, they were busy tweeting as their vintage china was hired for the TV programme, ‘Call The Midwives’. Love Vintage China hires beautiful traditional tea sets, incorporating cake stands, flower vases, candlebras, sandwich plates, cutlery and bunting. All the necessities for a traditional vintage tea party. With quaint tea sets, and plates with gold edging and a mix of cut glass and tiered cake stands. Their packages are to suit all budgets, perfect for any size wedding, christening, afternoon-tea party, corporate and TV. Available to hire from info@lovevintagechina.co.uk New website coming soon lovevintagechina.co.uk Twitter @lovevintagechina

Loughton Dad, Keith Welch was dumbfounded at the news of winning the Dream Makeover Essex prize and, here at iN Mag Essex, we can’t pretend we are not on the edge of our seats in anticipation for the results of his £25,000 treatment! Four amazing make-overs will be revealed on the Gala Event on 21 March at the Marriot Hotel, Waltham Abbey, hosted by Jeff Brazier. Each winner has undergone Cosmetic dentistry by Smile by Ash Palmer, laser eye surgery by expert Mr Pillai, facial aesthetics and younger looking skin by Frances Furlong, beauty therapy by MODE, fitness training by Body Perfect and to finish off the new look a fabulous new hair style by Zoology. Keith aged 54, was entered into the competition by his youngest daughter Emily who is thrilled with her efforts. ‘I really wanted this for Dad because he so deserves it,’ she said. Keith has had a challenging few years, suffering a bereavement, divorce, moving and being made redundant as a building site manager. Keith added: ‘I think Emily felt a bit sorry for me.’ Keith is a single parent, with three children, and for now he can’t stop telling people about what he sees as a great opportunity to get his life on track after concentrating on supporting the family.

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Year 6 pupil Haimish, 11, has now been selected by the borough to represent Redbridge at Crystal Palace in two relay events. Headteacher Amanda Campbell said: ‘It was an outstanding swim against a very high standard of competitors within the borough.’

I had let myself go I suppose, but right now I am determined to make the most of my Dream Makeover. This is great for me and good for the children too.’

We can’t wait to see the results!

To view Keith’s progress and see his video on You Tube visit deammakeoveressex.co.uk.

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Motoring

bentley’s 2013 promises new levels of comfort and refinement

Bentley’s ‘Flying Spur’ will be be the fastest and most refined four door the company has ever built as it is launched at the Geneva Motor Show on 5 March. Wider and lower than the outgoing model, the car signals a more aggressive design language for the company. To help provide the performance gains claimed and improve on economy the new machine will be lighter thanks to use of aluminum in the bonnet and front wings, but will also be 4% stiffer than the old car.

powerful engine produces 616bhp at 6,000rpm and 580lb ft of torque from only 2000rpm, giving the big saloon a 0-60mph time of 4.3 seconds and a top speed of 200mph. The power is fed through the latest eight-speed ZF gearbox, which should make for super-smooth changes and help the car improve on the outgoing model’s fuel economy by 13%. This still means

Inside, it has usual luxury feel thanks to plenty of leather and wood, a no cost-option sunroof, plus additional storage space. The ‘Flying Spur’ will offer toys aplenty for rear-seat passengers too, chief among them is a new Touch Screen Remote (TSR) system. Emerging from the rear console at the press of a button, it lets the back-seat’s occupants have direct access to toys including climate control, seat heating, ventilation and the satellite navigation and multimedia systems. Parts of the interior centre console and controls are carried over from the machine it replaces, also handed down from the old car are the sun visors, grab handles and armrests. Unsurprisingly, class-leading comfort and refinement was at the top of Bentley’s ‘to do’ list with the company launching a two-pronged attack aimed at reducing noise and stopping what’s left of it from getting into the cabin - all with the help of acoustic under-floor panels and glass, plus improved seals. Outside, there are new silencers to kill exhaust noise by 12 dB, while specifically designed tyres were chosen for their refinement and handling characteristics. Tasked with powering all that wood and leather down the road is Bentley’s retuned 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged W12. The firm’s most Page 42

a combined figure of fewer than 20mpg. Meanwhile, 343g/km CO2 emissions make for a wallet-busting road tax band of £475 a year. As with before, the ‘Flying Spur’ uses a four-wheel drive system to put its power on the road, which should mean sure-footed handling no matter the conditions. This is helped by the car’s air suspension. Actually softer than the old car, it stiffens as the speed increases, in hard cornering and during acceleration and braking to help rein in the machine on the

limit. And, if you ever have the chance to dial up 200mph, the suspension will automatically lower to aid aerodynamics - reducing drag and adding stability. The car’s speed-sensitive power-steering system provides variable assistance depending on vehicle speed and has been tuned to deliver refinement and feel. As with all machines that hail from Crew, the ‘Flying Spur’ is highly customisable, with a range of 117 paint options and a choice of 19”, 20” and 21” wheels, which come with either a bright-painted or a diamond-turned finish. There are also seventeen leather options for the interior and five veneers. It is this customisation and luxury that will mark their Bentley out from the cheaper competition: BMW, Mercedes and Jaguar, which all have cars that can - dynamically at least - compete with the Bentley, and for a lot less. Prices for the new machine have yet to be announced, but expect them to be near the £150k mark. Will it be worth the outlay? Potentially not, but if you want something that raises you above the hoi polloi it’s hard to think of anything that does it better, except of course Rolls-Royce’s Ghost. If your hearts set on (and can afford) the Bentley though, we doubt you will be disappointed when it lands in the showrooms this summer.

Spring launch for ‘faSteSt’

Ford’s new Fiesta ST will be the fastest the company has ever built when it goes on sale this Spring. With 180bhp and 203lb ft of torque, the hot hatch can manage the 0-62mph sprint in 6.9 seconds on its way to 136mph. The turbocharged 1.6-litre engine has been tuned to be economical too, returning 47.9mpg and CO2 emissions of 138g/km, meaning twelve months’ tax for £135. The Fiesta is already recognised as the best handling machine in its class and the ST should be the best of all. The steering, brakes and suspension have been tuned to provide a suitably sporty drive, while the car also features torque vectoring (for added traction), a threestage stability control system and a 15mm lower ride. In the metal, the ST stands out as the performance models thanks to a honeycomb-mesh trapezoidal grille - a variant of the pretty ‘Aston Martin’ nose that every new Fiesta sports - which comes complete with a deep front spoiler. On the boot there’s another large spoiler, plus twin exhausts, while the wheels are unique five-spoke numbers. The racey theme continues inside thanks to Recaro sports seats and what Ford calls a ‘high contrast interior’. There are plenty of toys, including air conditioning, a DAB digital radio, and a Thatcham Category 1 alarm. The ST2 adds to this with an upgraded Sony Stereo, half-leather heated seats, Keyless Start and LED daytime running lights. Like all new Fiestas, the ST features a gadget which might not be welcomed by everyone - MyKey. It allows the car’s owner to limit its top speed, reining in any potential for boy racing. On sale at the end of the month, the ST will priced at £16,995 or £17,995 for the ST2 model.

Words by Russell Campbell

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Property Guide

CHINGFORD GUIDE - £1,295,000