The Cheshire Magazine - Autumn 20

AUTUMN 2020 s ISSUE 079

Get Noughtie

Seven th HEAVEN

BMW 7 Series reviewed

Angela Scanlon discusses her new BBC show

The Watchman We talk to DMR’s resident Watchmaker

SKIN CAVIAR EYE LIFT REVIVE ∙ RAISE ∙ REDEFINE THE GAZE IS REAWAKENED

A NEW FOCUS ON EYES. THE FIRST EYE SERUM INFUSED WITH CAVIAR PREMIER – THE MOST POTENT CAVIAR INCARNATION YET – TO REVIVE, RAISE AND REDEFINE THE ENTIRE EYE AREA, INCLUDING BROWS. A CAVIAR FUSION FRESHLY BLENDED WITH EACH USE FOR A GAZE REAWAKENED.

INFUSED WITH CAVIAR PREMIER

Contents FOOD & DRINK

A FEW OF OUR FAVOURITES

15 23 28

57

THE ART OF GIFTING

Unwrap fresh ideas with our handy guide

78

Angela Scanlon discusses her new BBC show

THE WATCHMAN

82

We talk to DMR’s resident Watchmaker

58 90

SEVENTH HEAVEN

Dishoom Executive Chef share a favourite recipe

BMW 7 Series reviewed

Kevin Evans takes a trip to La Popote in the Cheshire countryside

TRAVEL

GET NOUGHTIE

GET SPICY

SPOTLIGHT ON

TREEHOUSE LONDON

A quirky city stay amongst the clouds

THE ISLAND FOR EVERYONE

Work remotely in Barbados

HEALTH, BEAUTY & WELLNESS

41

ASK THE EXPERT

Mya Elgarice from Harvey Nichols, Manchester shares her advice

FAMILY

51 REGULARS

12

MY LIFE IN CHESHIRE Suzie Power, Showroom Manager at Sofas & Stuff, Knutsford shares her life in Cheshire with us

Q&A WITH ROSEMARY BLACKBURN Head Teacher at Firs School

DRIVE

87

57

HOME

115

THE LABORATORY OF IDEAS

This month’s fashion inspiration

Q&A WITH ZOE HALL AND SARAH HARRY

Founders of Wild Bramble Blooms and Wild Bramble Living

STYLE

32

DRIVE NEWS

James Fossdyke keeping you up to date with all the latest motoring stories

116

ONE TOWER BRIDGE Hot property on the banks of The Thames

Autumn

SAVINGS

15% off

AUTUMN 2020 s ISSUE 079 s

Managing Director Kathryn Otto Deputy Editor Craig Hough Editorial Team Louisa Warde Kevin Evans Contributers James Fossdyke Jo Williams Mary Jane Greenhalgh Simon Williams Bryony Cook Brand Ambassador Sarah Irlam Design & Production Kate Woods Picture Editor Kat Hannon Charity and Event’s Coordinator Rachel O’Hare

Proudly published by

www.thecheshiremagazine.co.uk

The Cheshire Magazine Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and The Cheshire Magazine Ltd takes no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.

DISTRIBUTION The Cheshire Magazine is the largest targeted luxury lifestyle publication in Cheshire and the north west, delivered by Royal Mail subscription service to selected homes, businesses, newsagents and retail outlets.

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A Note From...

W

Where to find us...

CHESTER Abode Hotel 1539 Restaurant Chester MediSpa Gieves & Hawkes Oddfellows Opera Bar & Grill The Pied Bull The Inspiring Travel Co.

e enter our Autumn issue with a chill in the air, the country in tiers but with our pages filled with exclusive content with a corporate focus. We start by speaking to strong business leaders of the north (p.62), look at ethical business (p.68) and spend 5 minutes with the lovely Donna Howitt from Liverpool ONE (p.70).

Presenter Angela Scanlon discusses her new BBC show (p.23) which brings back memories from the noughties, Tori Shay, Founder of Wolf & Gypsy reveals her favourite pieces from her new Vintage Collection (p.30) and we talk watches with DMR Manchester’s resident Watchmaker, Duncan Ganley (p.28).

Our Health and Beauty pages focus on the new fragrance from Chanel (p.39), Mya Elgarice, Resident Beauty Expert at Harvey Nichols Manchester advises on essential evening skincare products (p.41) and we welcome health and fitness expert Jo Williams to the team to discuss all things mind and body (p.44).

Our Family section highlights the best advent calendars for families to enjoy (p.49) and we have a Q&A with Firs Prep School (p.51).

Within our Food and Drink pages we get spicy with Dishoom’s Naved Nasir (p.58) as he shares his recipe for Prawn Moilee and Kevin Evans visits La Popote in Cheshire (p.57).

This month we also are excited to announce the launch of a series of articles about the Caribbean Island of Barbados (p.82). Over the series we will look at Bajan culture and why now is the best time to work from home on the Island. Also, in our Travel pages we scour the UK for some of the best places to spend a weekend starting at ShangriLa Hotel at The Shard London (p.74).

We round the issue off with our Homes section and ask the question is a dark or light bathroom best for you this winter? (p. 104), showcase a grade II listed mill house (p. 108) and meet the Founders of Wild Bramble Blooms & Wild Bramble Living (p.115).

There is plenty to sink your teeth into this issue, so pour yourself a warm drink, get cosy, and enjoy your issue of The Cheshire Magazine.

MANCHESTER David M Robinson Gotham Hotel Great John Street Hotel Harvey Nichols Hilton Manchester Deansgate King Street Townhouse Mappin & Webb Rosso Restaurant Bar & Grill Watches of Switzerland 20 Stories Manchester Arena

MANCHESTER AIRPORT Falcona Private Jets 1903 Airport Lounge, T3 PremiAir Terminal

CHESHIRE 52 Alderley Road Clinic Bolesworth Estate & Events Carden Park Hotel Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet Kitchen Architecture Willow Boutiques The Mere The Church Inn The Roebuck Inn The Colony The Stanneylands Pulse of Perfumery (POP) Piccolinos Knutsford Piccilinos Alderley Opera Grill Chester

GREATER MANCHESTER Jackson-Stops

Team Cheshire Magazine

PARTNER

David M Robinson

Frisør Salon & Wellness

Happy reading,

PROUD TO

LIVERPOOL Harvey Nichols Beauty Bazaar

Oddfellows on the Park

cover On the

Shangri-La Hotel, At The Shard, London, Iconic Hotel Shot, Tower Bridge and The Shard.

Image courtesy of Shangri-La Hotel

Would you like to be part of the family, receiving Cheshire’s premiere lifestyle magazine right to your front door each month, you can now subscribe easily online. Get your own, beautifully printed copy from as little as £3.50

Subscribe today by visiting: www.thecheshiremagazine.co.uk/subscribe

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My life in

CHESHIRE SUZI POWER, SHOWROOM MANAGER, SOFAS & STUFF KNUTSFORD

How would you describe yourself ?

Warm-hearted, supportive, talkative, and prone to outbreaks of quirkiness.

Where is home? And work?

Home is in Manchester, but the opening of our new showroom has brought me to Knutsford for work.

I’ve been familiar with Cheshire lanes for quite a few years now, since returning to a childhood passion of cycling, so the opportunity to work here for Sofas & Stuff really appealed.

What did you want to be when you were younger?

As a child, I was an avid reader. I went through a phase of reading Agatha Christie and was always left disappointed at the lack of surprise as to ‘who did it’. So, I set myself the challenge at around the age of seven to plot the perfect murder. It wasn’t that I intended to turn to a life of crime; it was the desire to write books that would captivate the audience and deliver an unpredictable ending. My love of books remains with me.

Name a few of your favourite places to be...

Under a huge umbrella with heavy rain pelting down or curled up on my sofa with a cup of tea and my cat, Hettie for company. Walking round cities seeking out their beauty, from features on buildings to street art and statues. Sitting at the window seat of my favourite café people watching. Walking on a quiet beach where I can enjoy the sounds and smells of the sea. Amid the happy chaos of a family gathering.

What or who inspires you?

In general, I’m inspired by people who aren’t afraid to take chances and embrace everything they do with such enthusiasm. On an individual level, definitely my mum. She’s simply amazing!

“Never mind. There’s a reason pencils have rubbers on the end” What was the last gift you gave someone?

A vintage plate with a fish design on it. I spotted it at an antiques fair in Victoria Baths, which is one of my favourite buildings. It just called to me, as the shape was unusual and the colours were so vibrant. When I turned the plate over, I discovered the design was called Aquarius, which is my sister’s star sign, so it seemed the perfect gift for her.

Tell us a secret/fun fact?

I once held up an express train from Manchester to London for 20 minutes. I went to step on it and my shoe slipped off my foot and fell onto the track under the train. A platform attendant came to my rescue and ended up lying face down on the platform trying to retrieve my shoe with a litter picker. After several attempts, he succeeded and when I finally got to my seat, red faced with embarrassment, I was greeted with a mixture of support and anger. I have never worn a mule since.

Who or what would you place in Room 101?

Bullies. I have a real aversion to anyone who deals with their own insecurities by bullying others. Alongside this, people who spit on the floor and people who use abbreviations in conversations: OMG, ASAP, that sort of thing.

What’s been your biggest life lesson?

Take responsibility for your mistakes, learn from them, but don’t dwell on them too much. Many years ago, when I was working in a different field, I fearfully had to tell a client that I’d made a mistake in a report. I’d built it up to such a big thing in my head and I’ll never forget their response: ‘Never mind. There’s a reason pencils have rubbers on the end.’ www.sofasandstuff.com

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ONE MOMENT. FOREVER.

LIVERPOOL

LONDON MANCHESTER ALTRINCHAM DAVIDMROBINSON.CO.UK

Tonkade by Laboratorio Olfattivo The new fragrance available exclusively in store and online at pulseofperfumery.com

25 Princess Street, Knutsford

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

NOTEBOOK WORDS: CRAIG HOUGH

The Art of Gifting

We have present buying all wrapped up here at The Cheshire Magazine.

From thank you gifts for clients, friends and family to the perfect place to shop, eat and relax before Christmas, we have you covered.

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Regulars | The CHESHIRE Magazine

oof

The Best...

Gifts For Clients

1

With many businesses battling through a tough financial year why not show your client you care with one of the below treats

The Fortmason Hamper

Lift the lid on delicious indecision with a filled-to-the-brim Fortnum’s hamper.

Choose from a wide range of neatly packed hampers to keep your clients smiling. A favourite is The Fortmason Hamper, named after the company’s famous Fortmason tea, first brewed back in 1935, this hamper brings together a feast of Fortnum’s favourites – from scrumptious biscuits, delightful tipples and savoury pleasures, to melt-in-the-mouth shortbread and chutneys and marmalades bursting with flavour. Quite simply, it’s a wicker-full of treats just waiting to be devoured.

Available for £100 from www.fortnumandmason.com

2

The Thank You Gift Set

Sending gifts to clients from a distance has never been so easy with Letterbox Gifts. From whiskey and gin gifts, to spa days at home, Letterbox Gifts have everything you could think of for sending that special client a little something straight through their letterbox. A favourite is the Thank You Gift Set which includes Earl Grey Chocolate Truffles, ‘Thank You’ Tealights, ‘Unwind’ Lavender, Luxury Darjeeling Pyramids and Bergamot Skin Balm

by Nathalie Bond. Each Letterbox Gift is gift-wrapped by hand and comes with a free personalised card, making it just that little bit more special for your client ones to open.

Available for £32 from www.letterboxgiftshop.com

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3

The Luxury Collection

Luxury gifting begins with the finest tea, coffee and hot chocolate and this hamper from Whittard of Chelsea is packed full of of them. The Chelsea Breakfast is a stronger alternative to English Breakfast, while Earl Grey is beautifully balanced with flavours of bergamot. Then there’s Chocolate Chip shortbread for delicious dunking. When it comes to coffee, the smooth single origin San Agustin Colombia is a favourite amongst customers, particularly when served with a generous sprinkle of Milk, Dark and White Chocolate Coated Espresso Beans.

Speaking of chocolate, the classic Luxury and Luxury White Hot Chocolates are the most indulgent way to round-off this exquisite hamper.

Available for £100.00 from www.whittard.co.uk

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A C O U N T RY H O U S E H O T E L I N T H E H E A RT O F C H E S H I R E A C O U N T RY H O U S E H O T E L I N T H E H E A RT O F C H E S H I R E A C O U N T RY H O U S E H O T E L I N T H E H E A RT O F C H E S H I R E

The

Royal Exchange Manchester

If you’re heading into Manchester and looking for the perfect the place to shop, eat, drink, and relax, The Royal Exchange Manchester offers some of the world’s favourite high-street brands, chic independent stores and luxury boutiques set within one of the city’s most iconic buildings

FJÄLLRÄVEN

Best For: Outdoor Adventure Wear Home to innovative, functional products for those who love looking good in the great outdoors. From clothing, bags and accessoriess to a large range of Kanken back packs, Fjällräven has spent over 50 years perfecting their products and chose Manchester to open their first stand-alone store in the UK.

Yards Store

Best For: Clothing & Accessories for the Great Outdoors Delivering an eclectic mix of heritage, workwear and outdoor gear Yards Store is the go-to place for people who love top-tier craftsmanship and prodigious design.

Vertigo

Best For: Delicious Plant-Based Eatery Serving up a delicious menu of plant-based meals from breakfast through to dinner, Vertigo is a mecca for vegans and vegetarians alike.

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Jenny Jones Jewellery

Best For: Antique & Modern Jewellery Visit the life-size jewellery box store for a jewellery experience with a difference. This family-owned jeweller stocks a wide range of silver, gold and diamond jewellery, from contemporary rings, bracelets, earrings and necklaces to vintage and one-off pieces. This is the longest standing shop in the Arcade, having initially started life as a stall in the antiques centre which used to be in the basement of The Royal Exchange.

lululemon

Best For: Athletic Apparel The Canadian brand were born from a love of daily sweat, the desire to innovate technical athletic apparel and the appetite to build a community where everyone can live their best life. With a yoga studio at the rear of the store, lululemon is the perfect place for those that yoga, run, or go the gym.

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature

Market Street Stores

Best For: Gifting You’ll have no shortage of gift inspiration as you browse along stores such as Hotel Chocolat, Scribbler, Whittard of Chelsea, Lush, The Body Shop, L’Occitane and Molton Brown. There’s also Irregular Choice for funky shoes and accessories to brighten anyone’s day!

The Whisky Shop

Best For: World Whiskies Situated on St Ann’s Square, The Whisky Shop is one of the UK’s leading whisky specialists. The Manchester store stocks a vast selection of the finest Scotch and World Whiskies, with well-known brands such as Johnnie Walker, Monkey Shoulder and Ben Nevis alongside vintage and rare tipples.The shop is also a celebrity hotspot, boasting a Hollywood A-Lister as a recent customer.

Amaranth

Best For: Health & Beauty Products Amaranth is a local, independent, award winning nutrition, natural health and beauty store stocking a great collection of natural and organic products, therapies and advice for personal wellbeing. They have recently opened treatment rooms for the ultimate well-being pamper.

Lanigan & Hulme

Best For: Premium Menswear Brands Bringing the best in premium menswear brands to the heart of Manchester and catering for the sartorial gent, head to Lanigan & Hulme for the ultimate shopping experience while selecting your favourite clothing, footwear and accessories. A small collection of womenswear is now also on offer.

Watches of Switzerland

Best For: Luxury Watches Head to St Ann’s Square to search for your perfect timepiece with the assurance of a warm welcome and personal approach from the team at Watches of Switzerland. An authorised dealer for brands including Cartier, Longines, Tissot, Rado and more Swiss brands.

Søstrene Grene

Best For: Wide Range of Home Products Discover a treasure trove of new, exciting and limited-edition products across home and interior, kitchen, crafts, party items, school and office, children and play and seasonal at Søstrene Grene.

There’s so much more at The Royal Exchange Manchester, this is just a taster. For a full list of stores, their location and website simply go to www.theroyalexchangemanchester.com and plan your visit 19

Pass on a

Smile Put a smile on the face of your friends and family with one of The Cheshire Magazine’s unique selection of gifts

Affir mation Culture Candle Range

This present is a perfect little lift for anyone that may need one. Crafted from a blend of coconut wax and soya blend using 100% natural oils, the collection of candles are all-natural and vegan-friendly. With a burn time of 50 hours, each candle includes an affirmation card to help strengthen self-belief and a positive mindset.

Fragrances within the collection include Morning Gratitude which features top notes of lemongrass and sage, with a blend of lemon verbena, rosemary, and cedarwood, an ideal accompaniment for morning meditation or gratitude journaling to start the day. www.affirmationcultureshop.com, £32

Tracklements Gift Sets

If you’re looking to treat the foodie in your life, the Tracklements website is packed with perfectly sized gift sets. The Curated Condiment Gift Set (priced at £19.65) includes a carefully curated selection of some of the companies best-selling and favourite condiments which are perfect for adding interest to a host of recipes, meats and cheeses. The Gourmet Mustard Gift Set (priced at £15.30) offers everything from British Beer Mustard to Spitfire Chilli Mustard. This offering celebrates mustard for all it should be: flavoursome, punchy and all round ruddy marvellous. www.tracklements.co.uk 20

Bespoke Engraved Bombay Sapphire Treat the gin lover in your life to a personal gift, with an engraved bottle of their favourite spirit from Bombay Sapphire. The range includes the recently launched Bramble: a bold new creative expression of gin, bursting with natural flavours of blackberries and raspberries. Bombay Bramble is easy to mix and the perfect present for those looking to hone their mixology skills. It gives a bold, berried taste and is perfectly balanced with the vibrant juniper notes of our signature gin, delicious served with tonic water and a squeeze of lemon. shop.bombaysapphire.com

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature

Sacla’ Tr uffle Lovers Gift Box

Almost anything can be improved with a touch of truffle – and this decadent hamper proves it. Another gift for food lovers, this flavoursome bundle includes a range of tasty treats, from Scacia’s own Truffle Pesto and Mac ‘n’ Cheese with Truffle to Pasta di Aldo’s Truffle-infused Tagliatelle. www.sacia.co.uk, £50

Introductor y Helicopter Lesson

Hovering in a helicopter for the first time is a unique and thrilling sensation that everyone should experience and the ideal present for the thrill-seeker in your life. Watch as they climb aboard and reach for the sky in this magnificent piece of machinery. www.experiences.lastminute.com, £199

Montabaco Parfum d’Ambience

Housed in a bespoke 8 sided bottle, Montabaco Parfum d’Ambience is the latest scent to be added to Ormonde Jayne’s range of Reed Diffusers. A very sensual and soothing fragrance, the soft leather and amber notes partner perfectly. A thoughtful housewarming gift.

Includes glass bottle, 500mls of perfume and 12 reeds, www.ormondejayne.com, £250

The Cocktail Deliver y Company

A gift for cocktail lovers ready to shake up nights in, The Cocktail Deliver Company serves up delicious premium cocktails nationwide. Created by world-class mixologists with decades of cocktail experience, the delivery service couriers premium, freshly made cocktails straight to your door, so all that’s needed is to select, shake and serve. www.thecocktaildeliverycompany.co.uk

Sunrise Virgin Hot Air Balloon Flight for Two If you’re looking to purchase a couple you love the ultimate romantic experience, the Virgin Hit Air Balloon will tick every box. The lucky couple will take to the skies together from one of over 100 locations nationwide, as they see the sunrise from an unforgettable new perspective aboard one of Virgin’s iconic red balloons. The 60 minute morning adventure, offers spectacular 360 degree panoramas and uninhibited views for miles, topped off with a glass of prosecco on landing. www.experiences.lastminute.com, £260

Spiced Drinking Chocolate Kit

A gift for chocolate lovers, choc-affair.com has recently launched a Spiced Drinking Chocolate Kit, which educates on where sustainable hot chocolate comes from and how it is made. Each kit has all the spices and chocolate flakes needed to enjoy making 5 delicious hot chocolates all in a keepsake tin – simply add the spices to taste, and learn about the history of drinking chocolate and how it came to be. www.choc-affair.com, £19.95

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature

Ge t

Noughtie Angela Scanlon sits down with a host of celebrity guests to revisit cultural highlights from the noughtiest decade, in a 10-part series for BBC Two. Here she talks to The Cheshire Magazine about the show and what she loved about the decade

I

t was the decade that brought us J.Lo’s green gown, Big Brother, The Da Vinci Code, Adele’s debut album and brand Beckham was born. We fell crazy in love with Beyoncé, got introduced to David Brent, discovered who shot Phil and learned how to keep dancing with Bruce and Tess.

In The Noughties, Angela will be joined by two celebrity guests each week, where they’ll discuss the films, music, dramas, comedies, fashion and entertainment highlights that shaped every year between 2000-2009.

Audiences can expect lively discussion, funny observations and friendly disagreements about the best of noughties pop culture, year by year, show by show - with people who were there and in the know. Viewers can expect a wide range of celebrity guests ranging from comedian Chris Ramsey, singer Kimberley Walsh, actor/presenter Joe Swash to broadcasters and journalists Emma Barnett and Amol Rajan.

moments that myself and our guests had forgotten about and celebrate a time that was a little bit more innocent and hopeful!

What appealed to you most about being part of The Noughties?

I love the Noughties! It was a glorious reason to leave the house off the back of lockdown and an opportunity to look back at some of those

How was that experience of filming with the new guidelines in place?

It was really weird and it was really hot!

Everyone had masks on and we had a giant tent so our guests could sit two metres apart.

Like with all of these things, they get normal pretty quickly. The brilliant thing was that we had a great bunch of guests involved, all of

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whom had been at home for a number of months and were just delighted to get out of the house and be giddy whilst talking about these moments and remembering where they were twenty years ago.

You revisit some incredible moments from the noughties, can you tell us about a few that stuck out to you?

I think the significance of Big Brother as a kind of cultural barometer was one. We were looking at all of these people, somebody that you could identify with, that were completely unedited and completely unscripted in this little fishbowl, talking about things that usually you only talk about in secret. I think that was oddly liberating for people sitting at home.

That was really significant and I think it’s only become apparent in hindsight just how big that was.

You know what was mad? The rise of the makeover show. There was Would Like To Meet and What Not To Wear with Trinny (Woodall) and Susannah (Constantine). When you look back at those clips, they were absolutely brutal to people!

Again, it feels so quaint and odd that people would not know what to wear. I think we’ve got to a point where everybody feels like they have their own individual sense of

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style and not this kind of copy and paste formula which is what we were being fed then.

So that feels really old school!

David Blaine is definitely stand out - it’s just such an odd weird thing, him dangling over the Thames for no real reason in in a glass box. Then we have that MTV moment with Christina, Britney and Madonna - is there a more iconic moment? Britney and Justin, maybe! The Beckhams were so prolific, and Victoria’s evolution all the way through. She came out through the Spice Girls, then the whole brand Beckham which she masterminded, there was the really wild scrutiny on her in that Parkinson interview. It was quite amazing to see a young woman deal with being under that spotlight.

What one piece of advice would you give to noughties Angela?

“Lay off the fake tan babe, honestly, or at least get some sort of colour match.” It was that sun shimmer, you know the one! I used to have a fringe which I can only describe as crispy. It was the kind of fringe that was straightened and then hair-sprayed so that it was crispy, which would mean that the front of it never moved, regardless of the weather or the conditions that I was in. But underneath it, the part close to my skin would become a little bit frizzy, and it was like its own climate under there. So I’d say, “Step away from the hairspray, step away from the fake tan.”

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature

“I think the whole show is quite nostalgic and it feels nostalgic to even do a show like this. So it brought me back to times when the most pressing thing on your to-do list was to read The Da Vinci Code and make sure that you were up to date.”

You mentioned the Spice Girls - who would make up your ideal noughties girl band if you could create one? You could be in there too!

Oh I’m 100% in there! I feel like Kylie has got to be in there. Sharon Osborne, because the Osbornes and that reality show were so weird and brilliant. Halle Berry, the first black actress to win a Best Actress Oscar, that Bond moment, and her generally. I’m going to have to put in Carrie Bradshaw, and I would put in Catherine Tate as Lauren.

What noughties fashion craze would you most want to bring back and which one do you hope never comes back?

I’m not going to lie, of late I have reacquainted myself with my UGG boots and I’m not ashamed to say it. At the time I would have thought, “Burn them and never return.”

However, there’s something to be said for a hug for the feet. I’m going to say the hipster jean which is starting to edge its way back needs to stay in the noughties. I’m talking about a hipster where there’d be a visible thong, remember that moment?

What do you hope audiences get from watching The Noughties?

I hope they just remember the innocence of us all. I think the whole show is quite nostalgic and it feels nostalgic to even do a show like this. So it brought me back to times when the most pressing thing on your to-do list was to read The Da Vinci Code and make sure that you were up to date. Or I think one of the most glorious things was Huw Edwards on the news, talking about what happened in EastEnders that night. To me in 2020 when the news is literally apocalyptic, the idea of sitting down and being like, “What’s on the soaps?” is like watching This Morning at ten o’clock at night. It feels quite joyful and innocent and lovely.

Watch The Noughties on BBC Two on Wednesdays at 10pm.

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WELLNESS WEEKENDS AT WESTON PARK COUNTRY HOUSE

forest bathing․overnight stay․cooking demonstration harvest inspired menu․garden tour During the Wellness Weekends the Weston Park estate is yours to explore. With 1,000 acres of landscaped parkland, beautifully kept gardens and calming woodland to wander at your leisure, a retreat is the ultimate weekend away from it all Wellness Weekends will take place on Saturday 7 November and Saturday 14 November 2020, priced at £425 per couple

To book contact Weston Park on 01952 852100 or email enquiries@weston-park .com Weston-under-Lizard, Nr Shifnal, Shropshire, TF11 8LE www.weston-park.com

Style B ack to the

Offi fficce

This Autumn saw many of us return

to the office and whilst your workplace might feel a bit different at the moment, you can still look your best in Vivienne Westwood’s Two Button Oxford Shirt. Crafted from luxurious cotton, featuring a two button collar and detailed with the famous embroidered orb, this classic shirt makes for an office essential.

Available now at Garment Quarter, www.garmentquarter.com

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Style | The CHESHIRE Magazine

The

Watchmaker To celebrate the accreditation of DMR Manchester’s workshop as a Rolex Authorised Service Centre, Craig Hough sits down with DMR’s in-house watchmaker Duncan Ganley How did the idea for Manchester’s Rolex Authorised Service Centre come about and what services can customers expect?

DMR Manchester has had a watchmaker for over 17 years with a workshop here in the heart of the city. However, Rolex now expects that the showroom, the workshop and its watchmaker match their own standard so that they are able to issue the official Rolex 2 year service guarantee with every full service. An official Rolex Service Centre must have a fully accredited watchmaker, a complete workshop with everything specified by the brand and finally a fully accredited showroom which must be fitted out to the exemplary standards by which Rolex expect all of their timepieces to be sold. Only when all three parts of the equation are complete can we be rewarded with the Service Centre Plaque and given this Service Centre Status. It’s a real privilege to represent the brand outside of Rolex and be able to carry out any interventions to the same standard as the brand itself, offering DMR clients the same service guarantee.

Where did your passion for watchmaking come from?

Well I have an engineering background and grew up surrounded by Meccano and Lego as I guess many people my age will have! Being able to build something from nothing and see how things work, change things to make them work better and more efficiently.

These toys of the 70s and 80s gave me the ability to problem solve and develop a passion for engineering. Watchmaking is simply engineering on a minute

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scale; it seemed a natural progression as all the skills I had learned in play are now being put in to practice. You do have to be a certain type of person to be a watchmaker and it’s not for everybody.

However, if you’re looking for a taxing, interesting, sometimes frustrating, but a very rewarding job, then it could be for you.

How did your career lead you to DMR? Purely by chance, really. I made the decision to leave Rolex due to personal reasons which brought me back to Manchester. The day after handing in my notice, I was called into the office and asked if I lived near Altrincham as there was a new watchmaking position being made at DMR. I remained at Rolex, had two interviews DMR’s Head Office and was given the position for a job at St Ann’s Square, Manchester where I have worked for the last 17 and a half years!

“At DMR, we have a strong partnership with many of the finest brands giving clients the peace of mind that the work we carry out is approved by them” What should a person look for in a watchmaker to service your watch?

The watchmaker should be accredited and have proof of their accreditation from the watch brands that they are able to service. It’s always good to meet the watchmaker and ask any questions you may have. However, isn’t always possible. In those cases, good Sales Ambassadors are on hand to advise you correctly. Genuine parts should always be fitted, never alternatives! Accredited watchmakers are able to order specific brand parts or materials and have the correct tooling for the work to be undertaken in an up-to-date workshop to meet the required high standards. At DMR, we have a strong partnership with many of the finest brands giving clients the peace of mind that the work we carry out is approved by them.

What is the most common mistake an owner can make when it comes to servicing their watch?

The most common mistake an owner can make when servicing their watch is taking it to somebody who is not accredited or not a service centre for a specific brand, in order to save money. Such jobs don’t have the brand guarantee and many worn parts or damaged parts may not be replaced with genuine parts as they can’t be obtained. A watch service is expensive, so it’s important that it is completed using only the correct branded parts and by a person who can offer a full guarantee as issued by that brand, proving that their work again meets the required standards expected that brand.

How often would you recommend customers service their watch?

Service times vary from brand to brand and with the age of your watch. However, a good rule of thumb is three to five years, depending on the watch having any issues or problems. The latest generation of watches have service intervals of between seven and ten years, which is very impressive, considering your car has to be serviced every year!

What is your favourite watch and/or movement to service and why?

My personal favourite is the Rolex Submariner, an iconic watch created in 1953, 67 years ago! The watch was waterproof to a depth of 100m and was followed by a dated Submariner in 1969. . Just ten years later the waterproofness of the Submariner was increased to 300m, well beyond the depth of normal diving. Advances in technology and materials made all this possible and are still as popular today as they originally were. www.davidmrobinson.co.uk

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Style | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Wolf & Gypsy Craig Hough grabs a coffee with Founder Tori Shay as she shares her favourite pieces from the new Vintage Collection

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or as long as she can remember Tori Shay has been dreaming up ideas for creating truly stunning jewellery.

Following a career in event design, it was whilst raising her young family that she set about realising her dream of designing her very own unique line of jewellery and creating her brand; Wolf & Gypsy - which officially launched in 2018. The brand’s name was inspired by Tori’s young son; Rafe, whose name means ‘wolf’, and ‘gypsy’ is derived from Tori’s love of travel and adventure.

Where does your passion for jewellery come from?

I’ve always been a lover of jewellery from a young age, growing with the trends from the choker in 1900 to the iconic gold hoops of the 50’s. Over the last few years I noticed a gap in the market for affordable jewellery that is influenced spiritually with the power to hold an energy. I began by designing pieces that I would personally want to wear, with a bohemian aesthetic and individual meanings, taking creative inspiration from my travels. I found my love in jewellery design and have

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enjoyed sharing my passion with people who share this love.

What does a typical day look like?

A typical day usually starts like most who have children - get them up, fed, dressed and ready for school, although it’s easier said than done.

I find my home life and work life are quite interspersed at the moment, especially since the lockdown, and I’m slowly trying to ease their separation to allow myself back into a routine, but answering emails and calls, posting on social media and designing are all a part of my day-to-day life. I usually try to move my body in the morning either through yoga, a workout or even just a short walk. I’ll have meetings during the day to discuss upcoming campaigns, photoshoots, new designs etc, or sometimes I may be piercing or out for lunch.

I’ll then collect my son from school….

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What was the process of designing your new Vintage collection?

I’m very much a fan of renewable and sustainable fashion and I think this is so important to bring back pieces from previous generations, so I had to make this collection. It consists of sourcing specific pieces from a wide range of eras and adjusting them to the Wolf and Gypsy aesthetic that is admirable to our market, to create these unique, solid gold heirlooms. It’s a 100% sustainable collection and pieces are entirely sourced vintage gold.

How is each piece made and distributed to your customers?

Each piece of jewellery (outside our Vintage Collection) is initially designed by me and is then adjusted to the mechanics with our workshop in India. Once the designs are complete, they are then handmade by our amazing team in Jaipur, India. Our skilled craftsmen do an exceptional job of perfecting

each piece to then be sent back to our main office in Manchester, from which they are packaged in our eco-packaging and distributed to customers.

How would you describe your customer?

I have no one particular kind of customer, just those that share my passion and love for creating their own personal style by stacking and layering the Wolf & Gypsy pieces. We are lucky enough to have had some high profile names wear our pieces including Fearne Cotton, Emma Louise Connolly, Louise Thompson, Vick Hope and Vogue Williams to name a few.

Other than your own designs, do you have any pieces of jewellery you’re rarely found without?

You will very rarely find me without my stack of bracelets that I have collected from my travels from a woven leather bracelet that I bought in the Sahara to a brass bangle that I bought from a small stall on my first trip to India.

Vintage Collection 1. Vintage Curb Chain with Black Diamond Eagle Pendant, £995 2. Vintage Graduated Choker, £895 3. Vintage Lion Pendant with Graduated Chain, £1,795 4. Vintage Fancy Chain & T-Bar Pendant, £1,930 5. Vintage Wave Ring, £635 www.wolfandgypsy.com

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Style | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Malone Souliers AW20 Navy Suede ‘Julian’ Loafers, £425

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The

Laboratory of

Ideas

The AW20 collection, aptly titled ‘The Laboratory of Ideas’, saw Malone Souliers Founder,

Mary Alice Malone turn to the Eastern school of Alchemy for inspiration and further insight into the concepts of self-expression and self-actualisation. How a simple object or act can have a significant impact on our own identity and the longevity of its transformational power thereafter.

As she delved into the idea of the shoe as object of desire, icon of design and conduit for personal expression; Mary Alice uncovered the notion that a shoe can fundamentally impact the way we move through space, relate to others and feel about ourselves.

This concept was examined in what Mary Alice refers to as a ‘Laboratory of Ideas’ - a space in which designs are imagined and created in the physical world – but, additionally, the space where she experiments, tests and examines both the physical and more obscure effects of her creations.

This Laboratory of Ideas informs the

creative for the season’s campaign. The campaign houses a space of high creativity, curiosity, humour and pragmatism – a blending of aesthetic values and scientific facts, of exploration and playfulness.

Style | The CHESHIRE Magazine

THIS PAGE Malone Souliers AW20 Embroidered ‘Julian’ loafers, £595 OPPOSITE PAGE FROM TOP: Malone Souliers AW20 Embroidered ‘Dorian’ Velvet Slippers, £725; Malone Souliers AW20 ‘George’ Boots in Cognac Brown and Black Patent, £575

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Style

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Style | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Malone Souliers AW20 Brown Suede ‘Julian’ Loafers, £425

www.malonesouliers.com

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Health, Beauty

Wellness

L’eau L’ eau Priv Pri vée A shiver of citrus, the sensual vibration of patchouli... This tension gives rise to addiction. Since 2001, the elegant and intrepid score of COCO MADEMOISELLE is as seductive as ever with each new interpretation that stays true to the original theme. Today, COCO MADEMOISELLE is available in a brand-new variation featuring an unprecedented, sophisticated and confidential way to wear fragrance. www.chanel.com

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Health & Beauty | The CHESHIRE Magazine

ROUTE DE LA SOIE Newly launched Route de la Soie, is a new collection of 7 fragrances from Ormonde Jayne's inspired by the extraordinary flora and diversity of the ancient Silk Route. Introducing new ingredients to Ormonde Jayne's such as Persian Rose, rhubarb, Armenian Plum, nutmeg, Indian sandalwood, rum and peony, the new collection is handmade in their own studio in Kent and is gender free.

Available from Ormonde Jayne's boutique in Mayfair and Harrods and Fortnums

Health &

Beauty This month we highlight some of our favourite scents, sample the new face masque from Syrene and our expert from Harvey Nichols shares overnight skincare advice

Rouge Smoking

Pro rod duct of the

Month

Inspired by a woman who lives in Pigalle with a strong taste for fashion, the Rouge Smoking eau de parfum from Bdk Parfums forms part of La Collection Parisienne. A warm fragrance, powdery and sweet notes of cherry accord and black vanilla combine with spicy notes of cashmeran for a powerful aroma.

100ml Eau de Parfum £150.00, available at Selfridges

CHESHIRE

loves

Syrene Aqua Hydrating Masque New at Harvey Nichols is this hydrating masque treatment from Syrene, which helps rescue dehydrated skin, restoring critical moisture leaving skin dewy and bright. It’s an overnight gel masque that restores critical moisture to a dry complexion. It melts into your skin while creating a deep reservoir of hydration, providing antioxidants to protect your skin from the environmental drivers of ageing and leaves skin dewy and plump. £70, available from www.harveynichols.com

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Anine Bing Pure Noir Inspired by an alliance of softness and strength, Pure Noir explores the union of black baccara rose, papyrus, and spicy saffron faceted with dark notes of guaiacwood and mahogany. Anine, Founder and Chief Creative Officer, wanted to create a follow-up to her first fragrance, which felt different. Something deep and sensual, yet feminine and versatile enough for everyday wear. Pure Noir embodies the energy of the unapologetic modern woman, who is bold in spirit and assertively feminine.

75ml Eau de Parfum £149,

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Health & Beauty

Ask the EXPERT Mya Elgarice, Resident Beauty Expert and Personal Shopper at Harvey Nichols, Manchester What are the evening skincare essential products to guarantee a good morning?

Searching for effortless, healthy-looking skin this winter? Our evening essentials will ensure you’re making the most of your beauty sleep. “This year we can take time to look after our skin, with plenty of no makeup days to help rejuvenate it, allowing you to wake up with a healthy, glowing complexion”.

Starting with a luxurious cleanser, perfect for all skin types, La Prairie’s water-activated mousse deeply cleanses and hydrates the skin, removing makeup, surface impurities and environmental pollutants.

Take time to learn a new technique and bring MZ Skin’s Tone and Lift Facial Toner tool into your night-time regime.

“We’re all about learning new skills this year” says Mya, “so learn how to do your very own, at-home facial to rid your skin of toxins through lymphatic drainage and reduce puffiness in the skin. With so many brands offering online tutorials (including the beauty experts at harveynichols.com) you are sure to be a

pro in no time”. The facial contouring roller from MZ Skin is made from germanium to tackle anti-ageing whilst improving circulation, oxygenation and stimulating collagen production.

Designed to work overtime while you slumber, helping to renew skin cells and intensely hydrate, Lancer’s Advanced Radiance Awakening Mask melts into the skin overnight, saturating the skin with powerful brightening complexes for a radiant and luminous appearance by morning.

One for the baby mamas, Hatch Mama helps you to tackle every pre- and post-natal beauty issue head-on, so you can continue to feel like the very best version of you (even after a sleepless night!). Down, Girl soothing leg and foot relief is a gel-based cooling cream infused with naturally derived ginger and mint

blend, for instant relief from swollen and tired limbs, ensuring a more relaxing night’s sleep. This is non-toxic, mamasafe, feel-good beauty at its very best.

No night’s sleep is complete without a luxurious silk pillowcase that reaps plenty of beauty benefits - so invest in the best with SLIP’s Silk Pillowcase. Look up ‘beauty sleep’ and you’ll find SLIP in the definition. Unlike cotton, which draws moisture from your face, hair and scalp, this pillowcase breathes and is a natural temperature regulator, with not only anti-aging properties but also anti-bed head allowing your hairstyle/blow-dry to last overnight, preventing breakages and leaving your hair shiny and ready to conquer the next day. www.harveynichols.com

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A Look that Works for You Paul Chandler, Technical Director at Advanced Pro Salon shares his advice on achieving the perfect corporate look for your hair.

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chieving the ideal look for corporate life depends largely on your own perceptions of what “corporate” actually means. In the past, corporate translates in style terms as playing safe, don’t break the rules, blend in and conform. Depending on the business and sector you work in, those social rules may well still apply, but the world is definitely changing.

Finding your own corporate style also depends on whether you’re the owner or an employee; are you setting the rules or following them.

I’d say it’s fair to suggest extreme shades are out of the window, along with extreme cuts, but that doesn’t mean to say that you have to avoid colour altogether. The corporate world thrives on confidence, calculated risks, determination to succeed, and your hair is a visual expression of your personality. With that in mind I’d recommend going for sleek straight looks with strong cut lines and clean edges for a real bold statement of confidence.

Straight clean edges project and communicate 42

confidence, precision, attention to detail, organisation and an individual who knows what they want and gets it, a powerful statement. Add a deep rich pop of colour to really drive home the confidence, such as a deep red, copper or even a yellow blonde, all huge autumnal trend shades for 2020.

Bold and confident not you? You can’t go wrong with beautiful natural shades from ash blonde through to rich chocolate browns. The key to pulling off the natural is a good consultation with your stylist and colourist to ensure the shades match your skin tone and look.

Using multiple tones to add subtle multi-tonal depth delivers a real natural look, but it’s all about the hair health and ensuring your hair is well nourished and protected, especially during the winter months.

Going for a short barbered style keeps things easy for those with a hectic schedule, ensuring maintenance is kept to a minimum, but this may lead to more salon visits. If the short cut isn’t for you, versatility is the key,

working out different ways to style your hair to suit your schedule, so ask your stylist for styling ideas to ensure you can change this up when you need to. It’s important to differentiate between work time and play time, so work up some evening party and glamour styles to give yourself that option when you ‘let your hair down’ for the night.

During the autumn/winter season wash your hair less to avoid stress on your hair as you will be applying less heat. Ensure your hair is well nourished as it will be subjected to the elements, home heating, car heating and increased moisture intake. Heat protection sprays will also help minimise the damage caused by styling. If you prefer to work with your hair up ensure you change the position of your ponytail and twists to avoid the stress being constantly placed in one point, which will lead to breakages and damage.

Choose an intelligent hair colour such as ColourCode which is already packed full of ProPlex, Argan Oil and Vitamins C, E & B5, all of which are vital for your hair health. www.advancedprosalon.co.uk

Tree of Life® Initials

Tree of Life® Initials Tree of Life® Initials

NEW CLOGAU STORE COMING SOON 10 - 12 Foregate Street, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 1HA

NEW STORE NEW CLOGAU CLOGAU w w w . c l o g a u . c o .STORE uk COMING SOON NOW OPEN COMING SOON

10 10 -- 12 12 Foregate Foregate Street, Street, Chester, Chester, Cheshire, Cheshire, CH1 CH1 1HA 1HA www.clogau.co.uk www.clogau.co.uk

Wellness | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Mi nd & Body Health and fitness expert, Jo Williams shares her top tips and latest discoveries for a happier, healthy life

How to...

PRICKLY POINTS Acupressure mats work in a similar way to the art of acupuncture, stimulating energy, vitality, and a sense of wellbeing in the body. Simply lying on the mat for between 20-40 minutes several times a week can relieve pain and tension and help you relax and relieve stress, gaining some of that all-important mental clarity. My self-care tool is to use mine before bed to ensure an amazing restful night’s sleep. It can take a little getting used to but it comes highly recommend, especially this one from Shakti.

Ethically made in Varanasi, India, Shakti mats are expertly handmade by women in an all-female purpose-built workshop, as the company believes in supporting women with good pay, good hours, daily meals, free medical care, sick pay, and ensuring a happy work environment. Indeed the word Shakti in Sanskrit is a feminine principle and symbolises empowerment, abundance, and change.

From £29, www.shaktimat.co.uk

Do the Perfect Squat

The squat. It’s one of the best ways to work your gluteals, quadriceps and hamstrings, if you do it correctly, so spend some time mastering the art for the best results. All abilities can try this exercise.

1 - Start with your feet a little wider than hip width apart.

2 - Keep your hips back bending at the knees and ankles and pressing knees slightly open as you then…

3 - Sit into the squat position going as low as you can like you are sitting on a chair by hinging at the waist.

4 - Hold the arms out in front of the body for balance and back support 5 - Tighten abs a little, about 20 per cent.

A Helping Hand I absolutely love this book. Sometimes, you just need to stop and regroup. Only last weekend I picked it up as I wanted to make the delicious korma but then ended up flicking through the pages and feeling really good in myself afterwards. A little Ab crunches are the best way to burn belly fat… self-care goes a long way.

Available from all Truth: The best way is through good bookshops combining cardio with ab

Myth Buster

6 - Align knees over feet. Never let them pass the front of your toes weight into your heels.

7 - Squeeze shoulder blades back and down and keep spine straight.

8 - Explode back up.

strengthening exercises and a balanced diet.

Awaken the Senses Figs are one of the healthiest foods, and a great source of vitamins and minerals. So, now is a great time to bring the outdoors inside with the Jo Loves Fig Trees Candle. Inspired by Jo’s family holidays in Italy, Fig Trees captures the fresh, green scent of ripe figs alongside delicately sweet cassis and the earthy warmth of amber to create a new home scent that will instantly transport you to the Mediterranean. Perfect!

Home Candle £55, Luxury Candle £350, www.joloves.com 44

Follow Jo on instagram @ jewilliamspt

C O M M ON NP PLLAACCEE S YO OU U RR SSTTOORRYY WWI ITTHH SH A R E Y FUTURE E G G EE NNEERRAATTI IOONNSS Take part part in an exciting Take exciting new new creative creativeproject projectcapturing capturingthe the ways we’ve lived ways lived through through the thepandemic pandemicinin2020.

2020.

The Covid-19 Covid-19 pandemic pandemic of The of 2020 2020 has has profoundly altered altered the profoundly the way way we we live live our our lives.

National charity, The Reader, lives. National charity, The Reader, which brings brings people people together which together and and books to life, is calling for everyone books to life, is calling for everyone – young and old - to share their – young and old - to share their experiences in a community scrapbook experiences in a community scrapbook that will preserve the memories for that will preserve the memories for years to come. years to come.

From comforting lockdown recipes to From comforting lockdown recipes to your favourite quotes from books and poems, through to drawings, letters your favourite quotes from books andwant poems, drawings, letters and photographs – whatever it is, we you through to share to it with us. and photographs – whatever it is, we want you to share it with us.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED HOW TO GET INVOLVED

Visit www.thereader.org.uk/commonplace to download a pack or call into Visit www.thereader.org.uk/commonplace to download a pack or call into The Reader Shop in Calderstones Park, Liverpool to pick up a pack (open from 12noon 4pm, Thursday – Sunday).

The Reader Shop in–Calderstones Park, Liverpool to pick up a pack (open from 12noon – 4pm, Thursday – Sunday).

www.thereader.org.uk/commonplace www.thereader.org.uk/commonplace www.thereader.org.uk @thereaderorg @calderstones #SharedReading www.thereader.org.uk The@thereaderorg Mansion House, Calderstones Park, Liverpool, L18 3JB @calderstones #SharedReading

The Mansion House, Calderstones Park, Liverpool, L18 3JB

Family Log Cabin Hideaway Carpenter, Charlie Lowe is a man on a mission to re-wild the nation. The Bear Grylls of the North West, Charlie is a law graduate and ex-marine who is creating bespoke timber designs that allow families to get creative in their outdoor spaces all year-round. Sign us up, please.

From ÂŁ899, call Charlie on 07921 224572 for more details, www.timbermanandco.org

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© STUDIO STAG

© LUKE O_DONOVAN

Family news W O R D S : @ G I N A N D J E L LY T O T S

The Future Of Design Design Ventura is the Design Museum and Deutsche Ban’s award winning, free design and enterprise competition for school children aged 13-16. This year designer Yinka Ilori has set the brief to design a product that improves everyday life by addressing a social, educational or environmental issue that retails for around £10. The shortlisted teams will be invited to pitch their ideas and the lucky winner will be selected to develop their designs with a professional agency before their product is manufactured and sold in the Design Museum Shop, raising money for charity.

The deadline is 24 February 2021, so get designing. www.venture.designmuseum.org

A DINO-CHRISTMAS

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© DESIGN MUSEUM AND RICHARD HEALD

© STUDIO STAG

Dinosaurs are huge in our household (no pun intended) and I am fixated on the Natural History Museum’s new Christmas catalogue – the go-to place for all things dinosaur related. Now, I am simply hoping that we don’t decide that dinosaurs are so last season before Christmas comes around…

From £8, www.nhmshop.co.uk

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Family

#1 Play in Choc Advent Calendar 24 organic chocolates and surprise toys. Dairy, nut, gluten and plastic free £55, www.playinchoc.com

#2 Whiskeys of the World Advent Calendar 24 whiskeys and traditional Glencairn glass £180, www.flavair.com

OUR FAVOURITE

ADVENT

CALENDARS

for the whole family to enjoy

#3 Lego Star Wars Advent Calendar Buildable characters and game content £24.99, www.lego.com

#4 Hair Accessories Advent Calendar Themed box with hair accessories for festive season and beyond £34, www.otherletters.co.uk

#5 Coffee Advent Calendar 24 supreme craft coffees for you to brew, whole bean or French press £36, www.notonthehighstreet.com

#6 Wedgwood Advent Calendar An enchanting book of blue and white decorations £650, www.wedgwood.com

#7 Net-a-Porter Advent Calendar Beauty tools, treats and products for the ultimate in self-care £240, www.net-a-porter.com

#8 Father Christmas Light-up Advent Bus For you to fill each year with special treats £65, www.ellajames.co.uk 49

Family | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Pets’ Corner All the very latest news and fabulous things for your furry family members

TOP FIVE - PET BOWLS

Ask the

VET

#1 Kintails x Kana London Dog Bowl, Sea Breeze £38, www.kintails.com

The Cheshire Magazine’s resident vet James Dutfield, answers all of your pet care questions

You may have noticed a change in the veterinary profession in recent years. Many people have asked me what is corporate veterinary practice and how has it come about? Below I answer some of the most common questions in relation to corporate veterinary practice.

What is a Corporate veterinary practice?

This is a clinic or hospital owned and operated by a company.

#2 dogBar from Hugo & Otto, S, M, L from £185, www.hugoandotto.com

How did Corporate vet practice come about?

In 1999 the law was changed to allow non vets to own and run veterinary practices (previously vet practices were always owned by a vet). This allowed venture capitalists and investors to buy into vet practices.

Independent vet practices are owned and operated by an individual veterinarian or small group of veterinarians.

Who are the main corporate vet companies?

There are 6 main corporate vet groups, these are CVS, Vets 4 Pets/Pets at Home, Independent Vetcare, Medivet, VetPartners and Linnaeus

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#4 Stainless Steel Cat Bowl with Copper-plated Stand £35, www.thedesigngiftshop.com

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How much of the market do they own?

It is estimated that corporate vet practices currently account for approximately 35% of all vet practices, and this is expected to rise to approximately 50% by 2023. Though exact figures are hard to trace.

Should I be concerned by my practice being bought out by a corporate?

Clients really want vets who are committed to their pets welfare, demonstrate good clinical knowledge and take the client and their own professional duties seriously. Clients want a personal touch. You should be able to get this whether your vets are corporate or independent. And remember if you’re not happy, shop with your feet and find somewhere that fulfils these criteria!

James Dutfield BVSC MRCVS - Resident Vet, If you have a question for James you can email him at,

james-the-vet@thecheshiremag.co.uk

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Promotion

Q&A

with

ROSEMARY BLACKBURN, HEAD TEACHER, FIRS PREP SCHOOL

2020 has been a very challenging year so far, how has Firs Prep School managed to navigate the COVID-19 challenges?

We are fortunate that we are a small school with amazing facilities and space, so with our small class sizes and high teacher to pupil ratio we could successfully implement the Government guidelines and bubbles, without too much change to our ‘normal’ plans. As such, in the summer, we were able to hold a guideline compliant outdoor Year 6 leavers party and prize-giving ceremony with a whole school virtual assembly where children celebrated by wearing bright rainbow colours.

To have been able to achieve this is thanks to our culture really. It has been about teamwork with our families and school staff and it has been wonderful to see The Firs Way (our values) really shining through. At the core, of course, has been our pupils’ mental health and emotional wellbeing as well as safety but with open, honest communication we have been able to share our recovery plans and risk assessments and work together to ensure that we are able to deliver face-to-face teaching in our ‘new normal’ manner.

At the Firs the pupil voice is the loudest. The individual is at the centre of all that we do, and every child has a single page profile created when they arrive with us. This evolves as they do, but it includes statements about the things people like and admire about them, what makes them happy and how they like to be supported. This has been the centre of our approach to welcoming children back to school with us.

Furthermore, we have revised our approach to pastoral care, with a new appointment of an inclusion leader, identified staff members as Mental Health First Aid champions and brought forward the annual PAAS survey (pupils attitudes to themselves and others) from January next year to this half term, meaning that we can swiftly identify any issues and concerns of target children and incorporate bespoke interventions to meet their individual needs.

Do you have any tips on how to communicate with your children during these challenging times?

For us, it’s all about knowing our children well and, therefore, knowing

the best way to communicate with them.

A lot of it is about reassurance, so that they know that they are at the heart of all we do.

We have used a lot of remote learning tools to keep in touch, videos, Google meet, virtual assemblies, emails, Google classroom. This allows us to connect and keep communicating as much as we can and supports the face-to-face learning.

What are your priorities for the Firs School?

Whatever is thrown at us, our priority is always to offer a happy inclusive environment, look at the wellbeing of the children and nurture their potential.

Ultimately, we will do our best to ensure we can deliver this despite all the COVID-19 challenges. www.firsschool.net, 01244 322443

How has this impacted the children?

The vast majority of our children returned pre-autumn term and were excited to be back. However, we are taking nothing for granted and we are closely monitoring everyone, especially those who have just returned or are new starters.

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THANKS for everything YOU'VE done so far...

SAVEO OUR ZO

With over 35,000 THREATENED and ENDANGERED animals at our zoo, we still need YOUR SUPPORT.

Book TICKETS, become a MEMBER,

ADOPT an animal or FUNDRAISE at home chesterzoo.org/supportus

Food Drink Super

Barrie Bros

Ellis and Liam Barrie, originally

from Liverpool and founders of the much acclaimed Marram Grass in Anglesey recently launched their new Albert Dock restaurant, Lerpwl. Ellis Barrie you may recognise from BBC TWO’s flagship Great British Menu or more recently BBC ONE’s Ready Steady Cook. The 80 capacity restaurant is split across two levels, offering a creative cocktail bar, private dining space, two food menus and a DJ booth at the top of the stairs which soundtracks Liverpool’s dockside at weekends. www.lerpwl.com

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Food &

Drink news WORDS: CRAIG HOUGH

World Vegan Month

As World Vegan Month kicks off this November, Corn Exchange Manchester is taking the stress out of the health-inspired weeks with some new and delicious dishes that will keep taste buds fully satisfied. Choose from award-winning vegan fish and chips at Cosy Club, a new tofu bhuji from Delhi House Cafe or a new meatless meatball melt at the stylish Banyan Bar & Kitchen. www.cornexchangemanchester.co.uk

Tattu’s New Menu

Contemporary Chinese restaurant Tattu celebrates with the launch of its latest winter à la carte menu which features a total of 11 new and returning favourites from dim sum and small plates through to dessert. New large plates include a vegan OK Glazed Tempeh with padron peppers, cape gooseberry and grapes and Green Pepper Lobster with smoked sea salt, jalapeños and crispy shallots. www.tattu.co.uk 54

THE CHIC CHALET

Piccolino restaurant, located on London Road in Alderley Edge, has transformed its summer terrace ready for the autumn, with an incredible Chic Chalet. Made from sustainable timber, the double chalet provides guests with a warm and cosy environment in which to enjoy dinner and drinks.

General Manager, Giuseppe Esposito, said: “With the Chic Chalet we have created a new beautiful and seasonal environment and look forward to inviting guests to enjoy a little escape from everyday life.” www.individualrestaurants.com

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Food & Drink

Breakfast Bundle

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day so innovative Cheshire company Eatlean have launched the perfect bundle to super-charge your morning. The bundle includes one pack of Eatlean Super Porridge plus your choice of topping from their new range of Eatlean Zero Calorie Syrups. Flavours include; Salted Caramel, Maple Syrup, Chocolate, or Blueberry. www.eatleancheese.co.uk

Chapel Down, loves Three Graces 2015 Winner of a Platinum Medal at the Decanter World Wine Awards 2020, this sophisticated sparkling wine is made from the three classic grape varieties. The Judges noted Three Graces 2015 is “bold and opulent, with a plush nose of cinnamoncoated baked apples, spun sugar, oats and custard, then a soft yet crisp palate revealing layers of intense apricot, red apple, nuts and toast.”

Priced at £35 per bottle, available from www.chapeldown.com

FIVE TO TRY

A brand-new drinks website has launched bringing a huge array of artisan drink producers straight to your doorstep every month. Shining a northern light on independent craft producers, the Northern Wine & Beer Co searches out drink producers with passion, flair, a touch of humour and those that celebrate the native regions they call home. The five to try this month (pictured) include a Barahonda Rosé from an incredibly special organic winery in Murcia, Spain. This Rosé is pale pink colour and offers fantastic floral aromas and rounded red fruit notes. www.northernwineandbeer.co.uk

PRODUCT OF THE MONTH Z E R OWAT E R It’s time to put down your Brita and pick up a Zerowater. The company boasts their water filters “are twice as good” as other leading filters on the market and remove as much as 99/6% of all toxins and contaminants, such as lead, chlorine, mercury, aluminium, and plastic particles. The product has four additional stages of water filtration so larger particles and other contaminants are removed, ensuring the filter delivers a “000” reading on the included laboratory-grade water quality meter.

Priced from £39.99, www.zerowater.co.uk

ESCAPE TO WINTER ISLAND

Set to open on 12th November, Winter Island will be the UK’s largest fully outdoor, heated market with the installation of its new 1,500sqft heated Garden Tent sat underneath a 45ft Christmas Tree and will welcome a host of new festive traders and stalls. There will be a weekly Christmas Cabaret from The Untold Orchestra performing David Bowie and Stevie Wonder favourites, and for the kids there will be a big brass band Disney sing-along. www.escapetofreightisland.com 55

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Food & Drink

SPOTLIGHT ON... LA POPOTE W O R D S : K E V I N E VA N S

Best for... exquisite food, fine wine and exceptional service

L

a Popote is tucked away in the Cheshire countryside in the village of Marton and was established in 2009. In October 2019 it was taken over by Joseph Rawlins & Gaelle Radigon. Gaelle has vast experience in front of house in fine dining and it was here that she met Joseph whist working with him in the UK. When Gaelle returned to France Joseph followed – Gaelle’s words not mine!

Joseph trained at the well renowned Tante Marie cooker school which is owned

by Gordon Ramsey. Joseph then went on to work in the UK and then in France for 7 years with established chef’s like Pierre Gagnaire and Guillaume Delage, which is no mean feat.

In October they really put their own stamp on the restaurant but with careful consideration to the existing customers.

With only a few months under their belt they then faced the devastating impact of the Covid lockdown. They took this in their stride and used it as an opportunity to refresh the interior of the restaurant to a more stripped back elegant and simple décor. This definitely aligns with the style of food that Joseph and Gaelle have brought to La Popote, it’s a real mix of Joseph’s classic training in French cuisine partnered

with quality local British seasonal ingredients and flavours. The lunch menu changes weekly and the a la carte menu changes monthly which means La Popote truly keeps it fresh and follows the seasons and there is always something new on the menu to try.

My colleague and I went for a Saturday lunch and started with Burrata which was served with a piquillo pepper coulis and rocket oil and was beautifully balanced.

Along with this we also tried the Cheshire Heirloom tomato tart which was served with Kalamata olive puree and langoustine bisque, the freshness of the local tomatoes really sang here.

For the main course we opted for one of the lunch specials which was Venison Wellington, this was stunning! Cooked to perfection, it came with a rich jus and seasonal vegetables. Everyone’s head turned in the restaurant when this came to the table!

I opted for the pan roasted scallops which were perfectly caramelised served with samphire and balanced perfectly with the

acidity of roasted beetroots.

Our arms were then twisted to look at the dessert menu – very glad we looked! It was a struggle to choose one because the selection was so good. We opted for the Dark Chocolate Cremaux and Mille Feuille and we were not disappointed. The Dark Chocolate Cremaux was a chocolate lover’s delight with rich dark 70% chocolate at its heart but balanced with dark black cherries and yoghurt sorbet which cut through the richness perfectly.

The Mille Feuille was a buttery pastry delight with crème patisserie and smoked salted caramel. Possibly some of the best desserts I’ve eaten in a long time.

We asked the team to recommend wines to accompany and they did not fail, Joseph and Gaelle explained that the wine is as important to the food to them, something that the French hold dear.

La Popote has taken a new but familiar direction and I really wish Joseph and Gaelle the best for the future and will be returning soon. www.la-popote.co.uk 57

MEET THE CHEF:

Naved Nasir

The Executive Chef at Dishoom shares one of the most popular dishes on his menu; Prawn Moilee

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PHOTOGRAPHY © HAARALA HAMILTON

D

ishoom pays loving homage to the Irani cafés that were once part of the fabric of life in Bombay.

These were the first spaces in the city where people from all walks of life shared tables, rubbed shoulders and broke bread together. The first Dishoom opened in London in 2010, serving Naved Nasir’s lovingly curated menu of Bombay comfort food. From hearty breakfasts to street food staples, nourishing dishes of biryani to the curries of Mohammed Ali Road, and the famous grills of Colaba, Chef Naved’s menu brings together the food of all Bombay.

Dishoom now has eight cafés, including the much-loved Dishoom Manchester, which took up residence on the ground floor of Manchester Hall, a beautiful 1920s Grade II listed building originally used as a Freemasons’ Hall, in late 2018 – a most impressive setting for everything from a laid-back breakfast to an opulent evening feast.

After attending catering college in Delhi, Naved joined one of India’s best hotel chains, ITC, working in the Bukhara restaurant, before moving to Dum Pukht restaurant in the hotel

group’s Bombay outpost. He moved to the UK in 2010 and has been Dishoom’s Executive Chef ever since.

Everything the Dishoom team does shares their love for Bombay – its food, its history, its culture and its quirks. Chef Naved tells us “When I first worked in Bombay, I hated it – it was so crowded. Over time, I fell for its charms, and it feels a great honour to bring the flavours of this cherished city to our guests.

Each of our cafés is a small love letter to Bombay, and all our dishes are deeply rooted in the heritage and flavours of the city.”

Chef Naved is perhaps best known for Dishoom’s signature House Black Daal – a dark, rich, deeply flavoured dish that it lovingly cooked over 24 hours – but it’s not the restaurant’s only must-try dish. For each restaurant Chef Naved creates a Chef’s Special, and Dishoom Manchester’s special, Nalli Nihari Biryani, is another of his most cherished creations. “Nihari is a rich and hearty lamb dish that is regularly enjoyed during religious celebrations like Eid al-Adha. In Manchester we make it into a biryani that sees a tender shank of lamb layered with rice and caramelised onions then sealed beneath a pastry blanket. The results are really quite gratifying.” www.dishoom.com/manchester

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Food & Drink

Prawn Moilee It’s a light, fragrant and utterly delicious south-Indian-style curry, packed with juicy prawns and tempered with coconut milk. Although it looks impressive, it is actually very easy to make, so you can serve it either as a week-night supper or as an indulgent dinner. We serve it with idiyappam, the white, lacy noodle pancakes, also known as stringhoppers. If you can’t get these, it goes just as well with steamed rice.

INGREDIENTS SERVES 4 PEOPLE: 6 green chillies 55ml vegetable oil 2 tsp mustard seeds 30 fresh curry leaves 300g Spanish white onions, sliced (a little chunky is good) 15g garlic paste 15g ginger paste 2 tsp fine sea salt 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper 11⁄4 tsp ground turmeric 25g fresh root ginger, cut into matchsticks 400ml coconut milk 250ml coconut cream 24 large prawns 300g medium tomatoes, cut into small bite-sized wedges

METHOD Remove and discard the stalks from the chillies, then slice each one into 3 or 4 long strips. Set to one side.

Place a large saucepan over a medium heat.

Add 40ml of the oil, let it warm for a few seconds, then add the mustard seeds and 20 curry leaves. Let them crackle for a few seconds.

Add the onions and sauté lightly for 12–14 minutes, until soft but not coloured.

Add the garlic and ginger pastes, salt, black pepper and turmeric and sauté for 3 minutes, stirring regularly. Add the sliced chillies and ginger matchsticks and cook for 3 minutes.

Pour in the coconut milk and cream and

simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

While the curry is simmering, place a small frying pan over a medium-high heat and add the remaining 1 tbsp oil. Toss in the rest of the curry leaves and fry for 1 minute, until crisp. Drain on kitchen paper and set aside.

Add the prawns and tomatoes to the sauce and simmer gently for a further 5–6 minutes, until the prawns are cooked; do not overcook or they will be tough.

Serve scattered with the fried curry leaves, with lemon wedges on the side.

Note: If you’d like to prepare the dish in advance, make the sauce (up to and including the fifth step), chill and refrigerate, then reheat and continue from step 6 just before serving.

Extract taken from Dishoom by Shamil Thakrar, Kavi Thakrar & Naved Nasir (£26, Bloomsbury)

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Promotion | The CHESHIRE Magazine

NEW

KitchenAid Cordless Collection Introducing the new cordless Hand Blender, 5- Cup Chopper and 7-Speed Hand Mixer

I

magine the freedom to make anywhere, with clutter-free countertops, no tangled cords and without electrical sockets curbing your creative spirit.

Introducing KitchenAid’s first Cordless Collection - and the industry’s first three-piece cordless collection – the NEW KitchenAid Cordless Collection including a Hand Blender, 5-Cup Chopper and 7-Speed Hand Mixer.

Designed to exceed expectations, only the KitchenAid Cordless Collection gives adventurous makers all the power they expect, but without the cord. Whether catering for a big group or if space is a challenge, the NEW KitchenAid Cordless Collection gives makers the option to prep food wherever they like - from the kitchen to the dining area to the living room – and all in a fraction of the time.

One charger works with all of the appliances. The Cordless Hand Blender, Chopper and Hand Mixer can charge from empty to full in two hours or less. With the quick charge option, the hand mixer and chopper are ready in 10 minutes and the hand blender in 20 minutes.

A Battery Indicator

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Light signals when it’s time to charge and the Lithium Ion Battery delivers optimal runtime with the same performance and efficiency as the corded versions.

Key Benefits At A Glance: KitchenAid Cordless 5-Cup Chopper, RRP £129 • Mixes, chops and purees to perfection thanks to the multi-purpose stainless steel blades.

• Chops up to 40 onions on a full charge. *1 • Chops up to 11 onions with a quick charge of 10 minutes. *2 • Two speed settings.

• Whisking accessory allows you to whisk, whip and stir.

KitchenAid Cordless 7-Speed Hand Mixer, RRP £149 • Makes up to 200 cookies on a full charge. *3 • Seven speeds; slow stirring for chunky ingredients, medium speeds for creaming butter and sugar and high speed to whip egg whites and creams.

• The Soft Start™ feature brings the beaters up to the selected speed gradually to help prevent splattering.

• Beater ejector button with Stainless Steel Turbo Beaters II™.

• Designed to stand all on its own, the beaters don’t need to rest on a bowl or workspace.

Kitchenaid Cordless Hand Blender, RRP£129 • Lightweight, easy to handle and can blend up to 25 bowls of soup on a full charge.

• Single-handed, dual button, ergonomic grip.

• Four-point stainless steel blade ensures ingredients are easily turned into perfect purees, smoothies, milkshakes, soups, hummus and more.

• Variable speed allows for greater flexibility and control.

• Removable pan guard helps to protect cookware.

Kitchenaid Cordless Hand Blender, RRP £159 All the benefits of the KitchenAid Cordless Hand Blender, With: • Whisk attachment • 1L BPA-free jug with lid • Chopper attachment for herbs, nuts, cheese etc.

The new KitchenAid Cordless Collection is available in two colours, Black Matte and Empire Red, from 16th November 2020 at www.kitchenaid.co.uk *1 Based on onion size of 90 - 110 grams. *2 Based on onion size of 90 - 110 grams, when following recommended battery maintenance. *3 Based on four batches of chocolate chip cookies.

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HOW BIG IS YOURS? WE’D LOVE TO MEET AN EXPERIENCED

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER w As we continue to grow our leading luxury lifestyle title, we’re doing a little growing of our own.

So we’d love to meet proven sales executives with a love of luxury, a sense of style and a taste for the finer things.

careers@thecheshiremag.co.uk

CORPORATE

FOCUS We profile some of the region’s business leaders and discover the secrets to their leadership and success

Feature | The CHESHIRE Magazine

JOANNA

SWASH CEO at Moneypenny

I

was recruited as Moneypenny’s first salesperson 15 years ago – today I am a CEO of a business that has grown to employ close to 1,000 people in the UK and US. Moneypenny manages customer communications via telephone answering, switchboards, social media and live chat for lots of different clients from sole traders to multinationals such as Joe Wicks (otherwise known as The Body Coach), BMW to three of the top 5 Magic Circle law firms.

What led you into the industry?

Having had my own small business I recognised the importance of customer service and ensuring you provided an exceptional first impression to clients, so it was an easy decision to go and work for Ed and Rachel (Ed Reeves and Rachel Clacher co-founders of Moneypenny). I believed in the business and what we were trying to achieve right from the very start and had experienced the need for it first hand having had my own small business. I knew that it would be difficult to work for others having worked for myself but I had such respect for what Ed and Rachel were doing and the amazing work culture that I knew it would work with them.

It’s about making people feel comfortable, happy and well equipped to do their job Who was an early business inspiration for you?

I have to say this is easy - Ed and Rachel!

Their determination and belief in the business was inspiring and amazing. They had, and still have, a brilliant attitude and always put themselves in the shoes of the client, as that is how they had started off themselves. They also really thought out of the box and challenged norms so that problems were turned on their head and solutions were always found.

What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve ever received?

Have the right team from the start and then give them the confidence to speak openly. A no-blame culture is really important as well as giving your team space to get the job done. We expect our 64

team to give a brilliant first impression to our customers every minute of the day, so we have to do the same for them from the minute we start a conversation about working for us and this sets the tone with a real welcome and an effective introduction to the business.

What’s the most significant leadership lesson you’ve learned?

Involve the team in the process.

Everyone’s opinion matters – and your team will pick up on different things to you. It’s about making people feel comfortable, happy and well equipped to do their job. Although that sounds quite simple if you get that wrong your business will never flourish.

Has there been a truly pivotal moment for the business?

It would have to be our new awardwinning offices. Ed and Rachel asked each and every member of the team what they wanted from their new office. This culture shift was something we are very proud of and the staff feel such pride in their work home as they had a say in the design so we have natural ventilation, lots of natural light, a treehouse, pub, gym, allotments and orchard, free breakfast and subsidised healthy lunches to name just a few things.

Everybody enjoys coming to work! www.moneypenny.com

JEFF

EAMENS Managing Director at Challenger Business Communications

I

established Challenger, along with Wayne Skellon, in 1991 in response to the explosion in demand for high quality business communications.

Since then, the business has gone from strength to strength and is now one of the largest independent B2B Telecoms specialists in the UK, and is one of O2’s top five partners nationally.

What led you into the industry?

I was a mechanical engineer for 11 years when an opportunity to go into sales presented itself, selling radio pagers! It was clear from increasing popularity that mobiles would be the logical evolution and next big thing, and so I established Challenger to supply the market with what it demanded. Having started with only three staff members, I am proud to now employ over sixty!

Who was an early business inspiration for you?

I think many people have influenced my path in business, however one person stands out as example – Richard Branson.

Despite his shortcomings - being dyslexic and having no real qualifications - he

managed to build one of the most vibrant and exciting British businesses today.

What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve ever received?

My dad taught me to lead by example.

Often this means being first-in and last-out and being engaged in whatever task you’re undertaking. Get up early, clean your overalls, polish your shoes, do each task quickly and, when done, ask for more.

What’s the secret of great leadership?

Listen to what people have to say. Having the right answer is more important than having all the answers. Be fair and honest with your team. They’ll appreciate the openness and being a straight shooter will earn you a good reputation.

What’s the most significant leadership lesson you’ve learned?

The easiest thing to do isn’t the right thing to do. Doing the right thing is typically the hardest!

Has there been a truly pivotal moment for your business?

April 2019 was a huge moment for Challenger. We went through a management buy-out to become a truly independent business with a refreshed set of goals that focused us on moving in the right direction with nothing to hold us back.

It is crucial to be fair in all things and honest above all

Which areas of your business will you focus on in 2021?

We’re laser-focused on moving the business forward to better serve our growing client base, and meeting (and

exceeding) their needs. As 2020 has shown us, a planned strategy is not always the one that is achieved. We were able to flex our services swiftly to support new and existing clients as they transitioned into working from home and, even though it may not be suitable for all businesses, we have actually witnessed some fantastic efficiencies for some of our customers. We are looking at how best we help our customers stabilise with any new changes and new technologies, and 2020 provided us with a steep curve to proceed with.

Internally, we’re focused on employees being happy and secure at work. We too were impacted by 2020’s introduction of homeworking, and we are actively reviewing our process so the team still feel job satisfaction and are engaged with the work we do daily. Additionally, we do have members that are required to be officebased, so we have made sure the working environment is not only safe, but also continues to be an enjoyable and rewarding place to work. For example, as we can no longer accommodate large communal areas in the office, we have purchased some bicycles for staff to use on their breaks and explore the local area… at least while the weather is nice!

Externally, we’re working with Rowan Marketing to improve touchpoints – a new website, brand reposition, digital marketing and social are just some of the activities undertaken to grow current business and welcome new customers onboard too. Plus, we worked with Absolutely Design to make our offices brighter, more engaging spaces for staff to enjoy. www.challenger-mobile.co.uk 65

Feature | The CHESHIRE Magazine

BEN

HACKING

New Business Director at Bridging Finance 24-7 What led you into the industry?

I had worked in the legal sector for many years, but always had a passion for property. I worked hard to purchase my first house at 21 and always had a desire to work within the property sector. After working under one of the best lenders in the area we decided to take the plunge and set up BF247 which allowed us to express our passion for property and help the needs of like-minded people. I have always had an eye for a good deal and love finding our clients the best deals in the market and helping them achieve their property goals.

What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve ever received?

“If it was easy, everyone would do it” which is something I often hear business owners/ entrepreneurs saying and is something I am sure most business owners can relate to. I stand by the belief that you have to work harder or smarter than everyone else. Managing your time effectively is key when working in any business to keep an edge over your competitors, that’s why we

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I stand by the belief that you have to work harder or smarter than everyone else are always looking to improve the way we work each day and listen to the needs of our clients and provide the best possible service we can.

What’s the secret of great leadership?

Working for some of the biggest law firms in the north west I have worked under some extremely knowledgeable leaders and learnt a lot from them, however, being an avid Manchester United fan, I am a big admirer of Alex Ferguson and he managed to keep the same desire going from his first year to his last whilst maintaining a high level of success. Being fair and honest are key traits I would say as well as being approachable. If your team

are scared stiff of you, they are likely to hide any problems, rather than coming to discuss and resolving them. I haven’t kicked a boot at one of our team yet but I wouldn’t rule it out…

Has there been a truly pivotal moment for your business?

It is hard to say there has been a sudden “light bulb” moment for us, but obtaining new business via recommendations from old clients is always a good measure of success and old clients coming back to us once they have another project in mind is something that we highlight within the business as being vitally important and something which we strive towards constantly.

How has lockdown affected your business and how have you responded to the changes?

Lockdown has been challenging for most sectors; however, the property market has taken a significant upturn over the last few months and is as active as it has ever been with a lot of our lenders reporting record months. Boris may want to take credit for this with the temporary cuts to stamp duty, which may have helped, however the majority of investors still see property as one of the safest ways to make a return on their money. It will be interesting to see what happens with the market over the next few months, especially if we are subject to a further lockdown, however, I am sure there will still be deals to be had and we are also looking at the market for properties during this time. www.bridgingfinance247.co.uk

Feature | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Business as a Force for

Positive Change Louise Gatenby believes that doing good is good business. That’s all well and good but just how practical is it?

T

he challenges facing the planet today are extraordinary. Whilst the importance of sustainability has been recognised more recently, the concept is not new. I am a self-proclaimed optimist. I believe that doing good is good business. I am also a realist and appreciate what a huge and urgent task that is.

A Mainstream Conversation It’s just over 50 years since Milton Friedman famously stated that the responsibility of business is to increase its profit, placing shareholder value as the sole measure of success. This strategy is clearly no longer working and the pressure that it has put on communities and the environment, and the inequality it has created is unsustainable.

That may have been a controversial thing to say five years, maybe even two years ago but I am pleased to say not this year. It is now a mainstream view and one that really matters.

When the Business Roundtable in America, a group of 200 top US companies which include Amazon and General Motors, redefines its definition of the purpose of a corporation, to include responsibility to consider the impact on

all its stakeholders, not just their shareholders you know that things are really on the move.

More and more, the profit-only model of capitalism is being rejected by today’s workforce and by tomorrow’s leaders who want to work for organisations who share their values and have a positive impact.

Environmentally, we cannot continue to use up our planet’s resources at the current rate and almost every day there is new evidence, or a new crisis which demands that we make

“The changes facing the world today are unprecedented and we are going to see incomparable change in the way that we live, work and interact over the next, five to ten years” 68

significant change.

What’s more, investors are increasingly focussed on the environmental, social and governance (ESG) agenda and those publicly traded businesses who can’t demonstrate positive progress in this area are rapidly falling out of favour. And this is being driven by the consumer voice who want to buy from companies who share positive ethos.

The Rise of B Corporations Inextricably linked to this now mainstream conversation we are seeing huge global activism movements, from single-use plastic to fastfashion, as well as an exponential rise of B Corporation and other ethical business models balancing purpose and profit.

Certified B Corps are a new kind of business committed to balancing purpose and profit: A community of over 3,000 companies, across 64 countries, they include names you will recognise like Toms, Alessi, Patagonia and Bodyshop and many you won’t like locally based Bikmo, Brew Tea Co. and Zen Internet.

It’s not a simple badge handed out to those who request it either. Each company must submit to an independent and rigorous assessment of its entire social and environmental performance, accountability and transparency, evaluating operations and business model impact on your workers, community, environment and customers.

There are similar movements across the world and many other businesses that are not B Corps, yet have committed to actively impacting social and environmental aspects, not only because they think that it is the correct thing to do but also because there is a strong commercial

case to do so; they are re-shaping capitalism for today’s world.

The Business Case The argument against the concept of responsible sustainable capitalism has been that it reduces competitive advantage and profit.

This is the same argument that used to be voiced around diversity. In both cases it is increasingly evident that the premise is false. In fact, a more inclusive and responsible approach embracing both diversity and sustainability is a strong driver of commercial performance.

Closer to home, we know that people want to work for and work with companies that integrate the ESG aspects into the heart of their business model. The economic case clearly supports the longer-term creation of value and sustainable capitalism can help attract the best talent, new customers and investors, serving as a source of commercial and competitive advantage. There is a paradigm shift happening now and an opportunity to create a differentiated talent agenda based on purpose, values and positive change which provides you with a competitive employer brand advantage.

The changes facing the world today are unprecedented and we are going to see incomparable change in the way that we live, work and interact over the next, five to ten years. It represents a huge opportunity for businesses to create positive change and for leaders to work towards an ethical and sustainable future.

Louise Gatenby is founder of The Good Board, an executive search and leadership development consultancy that believes sustainable success tomorrow depends on the leaders we develop and the way we do business today. www.thegoodboard.com /www.bcorporation.net

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Promotion | The CHESHIRE Magazine

5 Minutes with

Liverpool ONE Donna Howitt, Marketing and Communications Director at Liverpool ONE, discusses how her team have adapted their ways of working during the COVID-19 pandemic and why the retail destination remains a jewel in the city’s crown How did the team at Liverpool ONE prepare for the reopening of non-essential retail following lockdown and what safety measures were put in place?

Throughout lockdown, our team were busy behind the scenes making sure that we would be ready to go as soon as we were given the green light to reopen by the Government.

It was of course a very challenging and a very different message which we needed to focus on during lockdown. We are all about bringing people together and encouraging social interactions. This is reflected across every aspect of what we do, from the outdoor enlivenment events to the personal shopping experiences.

But, faced with a global pandemic, we encouraged people to stay at home and stay safe, moving events such as our famous Tickle the Ivories Piano Festival and our interactive Dinosaurs Unleashed programme, to online, ensuring our visitors remained engaged – and hopefully bringing smiles and some joy, too!

When the Government announced in June that non-essential retail could re-open, our team swung into action to make sure our visitors could return safely. Liverpool ONE is obviously an open air retail and leisure destination with shops lining wide boulevards which makes it a lot easier for people to socially distance and still have an enjoyable shopping experience.

The feeling of being outside too, I believe, helps people to feel safer.

We installed hand sanitiser stations and a vending machine dispensing face coverings across the estate, implemented a one-way system and brought in new signage to remind people to “Be Patient, Be Kind, Be Responsible”.

With restrictions changing all of the time, we always knew it would be a quick turnaround to get things up and running again, but everyone from operations and marketing to the clean team pulled together to make it happen and ensure our visitors would be safe – and could once again learn to love shopping!

How has the team adapted its ways of working during the pandemic?

Like many businesses, we’ve had to adapt to the ‘new normal’, with people working both from home and in the office. This has, of course, presented challenges, especially for those with young children or shielding relatives at home, but what the last few months has taught us is that flexibility really is key.

For instance, pre-Covid, we would have never held

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team meetings remotely, as the natural instinct would be to book a meeting room and get everyone in there together. But now, virtual catch-ups and brainstorms have become the norm and we have proven we can operate successfully this way. We haven’t seen any dip in productivity – in fact, quite the opposite!

We do, however, remain extremely conscious of the value of human interaction in the office, especially for roles that are usually centred around meeting new people and networking with other businesses in the city. And, while the team have adapted well to working from home, some members want to come into the office to get that sense of normality back; however, with ‘working from home’ guidelines constantly evolving, we’re always reviewing this with the team.

Hygiene has always been at the very core of all workplace planning but now even more so, with desks being positioned to ensure social distancing. Equally as important is to support the team as much as possible with weekly newsletters and regular bulletins on activities such as mindfulness to reinforce our team ethos.

“...what really sets Liverpool ONE apart from other retail destinations is the absolute focus we have on people” What inspired you to pursue a career in this field and what is your personal ethos?

Liverpool has long been known as the style capital of the UK. It’s a place where trends are set and talent is uncovered. I love everything from fashion to food and entertainment. In this field, all these ingredients of life come together. At Liverpool ONE, we work hard to ensure they integrate in ways which provide the best possible experiences for our visitors.

I grew up in Wirral and a visit across the water to Liverpool was a favourite day out. I have a background in retail marketing, so when Liverpool’s regeneration became apparent, I couldn’t wait to get involved working in my chosen field, in my home city.

If you love what you do, you’re not working, you’re fulfilling your potential. You have to love what you do. For me, working in my favourite city in a role that allows me to be hugely creative and work with a wide range of really brilliant people, both within Liverpool ONE and from the wider city, couldn’t be more fulfilling.

Increasingly, I am spending more of my time working with wider

Liverpool-based businesses to attract both domestic and international tourists to the city. Marketing a brand like Liverpool ONE and ‘brand Liverpool’ requires a very strategic and creative mind and that’s what inspires me the most.

What do you believe sets Liverpool ONE apart from other retail destinations?

Liverpool ONE is so much more than a shopping experience – it really is pretty unique. Of course, Liverpool ONE is a place to find some of the best brands in the UK if you’re looking for that perfect outfit but also if you just want to catch the latest movie, grab a coffee, or even a cocktail! Most importantly, Liverpool ONE is a place where people come together, friends meet to catch up and families make memories together.

After months of being unable to meet loved ones during lockdown, Liverpool ONE has provided the perfect meeting place to catch up and stay safe – whether that’s at one of our 30-plus bars and restaurants or up on our 5-acre green space, Chavasse Park, where we’ve created carefully measured out markings on the grass to ensure everyone can enjoy the fresh air while keeping their social distance.

Ideally situated in the heart of Liverpool city centre and just a short walk from Liverpool’s iconic waterfront and magnificent historical architecture, a visit to Liverpool ONE is increasingly a ‘day-out’ trip.

With more than 170 stores, bars and restaurants and a 14- screen cinema, there really is something for everyone.

Whether it is the new season’s styles you are looking for or simply a day out, our return from lockdown has seen stores reopen and the same vibrant environment come back to life, with initiatives such as the piano busking festival and many outdoor performances that have been possible thanks to the City’s ‘Without Walls’ initiative. This has funded a whole host of performances from local cultural organisations to entertain visitors returning to the city.

I guess what really sets Liverpool ONE apart from other retail destinations is the absolute focus we have on people. We take time to really care about the visitor experience and that has never been more apparent as we face these extremely uncertain times – offering our visitors a fully-rounded, safe experience is our number priority. www.liverpool-one.com 71

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FOR FOR FOR FURTHER FURTHER FURTHER INFORMATION INFORMATION INFORMATION && &CURRENT CURRENT RATES RATES RATES FOR FURTHER INFORMATION &CURRENT CURRENT RATES CONTACT CONTACT CONTACT SARAH@LITTLEFISHESCAPES.COM SARAH@LITTLEFISHESCAPES.COM SARAH@LITTLEFISHESCAPES.COM OR OR OR TEL TEL TEL 07979 07979 07979 861483 861483 861483 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION & CURRENT RATES CONTACT SARAH@LITTLEFISHESCAPES.COM OR TEL 07979 861483 CONTACT SARAH@LITTLEFISHESCAPES.COM OR TEL 07979 861483

Travel Hea eav venly A utumn Breaks

The Cheshire Magazine Team has scoured the UK for some of the best weekend stays on offer this season. From experiences in the clouds to the city and onto the golf course, we have a range of ideas for your next weekend away.

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Travel | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard London

Kathryn Otto and partner escaped to the city for a luxury break at Shangri-La’s first hotel in the UK Location The hotel is located over floors 34 to 52 of the Shard which gives the hotel the most incredible views of London. Sat right next to London Bridge making everything the capital has to offer easily accessible along with Borough Market, Southwark Cathedral and tower bridge all being within walking distance. The Shangri La Hotel is London’s first elevated luxury hotel standing at 306 metres high created in 2014 and is the first Shangri-La Hotel in the UK.

Facilities There are 3 food and beverage offerings including one of London’s tallest bars on floor 52, infinity pool, sauna and gym in level 52 along with a selection of function rooms. TĪNG Restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and presents a modern British menu incorporating a selection of Shangri-La’s signature Asian dishes, made using locallysourced ingredients and served within an elegant and contemporary setting of Chinoiserie design.

Afternoon tea lovers are in for a treat with seasonal tea experiences made fresh using locally sourced produce. The London restaurant features views overlooking the meandering River Thames, Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf, Maritime Greenwich and out towards the historic counties of Kent, Surrey and Sussex.

GŎNG Bar is the perfect place for sunset cocktails and late-night drinks. The creative cocktail menu, A Miscellany of Inventions, offers a selection of drinks inspired by the greatest inventions of all time, from the hot air balloon and helicopter to Penicillin and barcode. Its name derives from “dougong” - a unique structural element of interlocking wooden brackets, used in traditional Chinese architecture and which is also featured in the bar. The space is divided into intimate chambers, with a cocktail bar, champagne bar and a swimming pool.

Rooms Floor-to-ceiling windows unlock sublime views from all 202 rooms and suites, each highlighted by sophisticated décor with Chinoiserie touches.

Body-contouring beds draped in luxury Frette linens make for a relaxing stay, while marbleclad bathrooms feature heated floors and mirror-embedded televisions.

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Our Visit When we visited it was breast cancer awareness month and as we checked in we were asked to hang a wish on their wish tree. As we have both been touched by cancer, we thought this was such a lovely idea - this was to be just the first example of how it’s the little things that the ShangriLa team do that create such a wonderful experience. Our room had the most incredible views overlooking the bridge, the Walkie-talkie and HMS Belfast with our freestanding bath facing out onto the skyline of London. The views were pretty spectacular in the

evening with the ever changing colours throughout the night.

We had the pleasure of visiting TING restaurant and were offered a table in the corner which over-looked Wembley and the River Thames which gave us totally different views from what we had enjoyed in our room. I don’t know if this was just a lovely coincidence or if they try and do this for all guests, but it was greatly appreciated. The menu is European with an Asian twist. We decided to start with the Chicken Satay followed by the tastiest Pad Thai I have ever experienced, whilst my partner John enjoyed Malaysian Fried Rice. After dinner we visited GŎNG Bar and enjoyed a glass of Champagne looking out across London. It was the most romantic experience and something neither of us will ever forget.

In the morning we travelled up to the 52nd floor and had a swim in the infinity pool with a lovely seating area where you could enjoy a drink looking out onto the capital waking up.

We then chose to enjoy our breakfast in our room before we checked out and made a start on our shopping spree.

Personal Note Staying at The Shang Ri La is on many people’s bucket list and rightly so, from the moment you enter to the moment you leave you are made to feel special, the service is of the highest standard and is all centred around ensuring every guest leaves with the nicest of memories as we certainly did. I will be craving our Pad Thai meal from TING restaurant for years to come. www.shangri-la.com

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U NIQ NIQUELY D I F F E R E N T

Titanic Hotel Hotel Liverpool, Liverpool, Stanley Stanley Dock, Dock, is Titanic is about about the the restoration restoration of of one of the city’s most historic and iconic buildings.

Set within a one of the city’s most historic and iconic buildings. Set within a UNESCO World World Heritage Heritage Site, Site, Titanic Titanic Hotel UNESCO Hotel offers: offers: • • • • • • • •

153 stylish and spacious bedrooms 153 stylish and spacious bedrooms Stanley’s Bar and Grill, the perfect place to relax while enjoying a light Stanley’s Bar and Grill, the perfect place to relax while enjoying a light afternoon tea or delicious evening meal afternoon tea or delicious evening meal Enjoy a coffee, light lunch or sip on a cocktail or mocktail in Rum Bar, Enjoy a coffee, light lunch or sip on a cocktail or mocktail in Rum Bar, overlooking the waters of Stanley Dock overlooking the waters of Stanley Dock Maya Blue Wellness features a unique thermal suite, hydrotherapy Maya Blue Wellness features a unique thermal suite, hydrotherapy pool, sanarium, relaxation area, and collection of bespoke pool, sanarium, relaxation area, and collection of bespoke ESPA treatments ESPA treatments

Stanley Dock, Regent Road, Liverpool, L3 0AN Stanley Dock, Regent Road, Liverpool, L3 0AN

TitanicHotelLiverpool TitanicHotelLiverpool

Native Manchester With a weekend booked full of meetings in the city, Craig Hough took up residence at the recently revamped Native Manchester on Ducie Street

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rom a former Victorian cotton warehouse to winner of The Sunday Times Best Hotel, North of England 2019, Native Manchester is enjoying a new lease of life. The Grade II listed aparthotel, ideally located right across from Manchester Piccadilly train station now boasts 166 luxury serviced apartments starting from a studio to a palatial two bedroom duplex penthouse apartment.

Location For those coming into Manchester for meetings or spending the weekend enjoying the city’s arts, sports (pandemic permitting) and industrial history, Native Manchester is ideally located. With only a two minute walk to Manchester Piccadilly train station, you have great access to trains, trams and planes (again, pandemic permitting). If you looking to enjoy the city’s hospitality, Manchester’s Northern Quarter and Gay Village are a five minute walk either side of the hotel. Shoppers are also perfectly placed, as the luxury stores of The Royal Exchange and Spinningfields are only a short ride away.

Rooms The selling point of this city pad is that it’s perfect for longer stays. Those having to stay in the city for

week-long business breaks would benefit from the homely nature of the room and suites. I enjoyed a spacious One Bedroom Premium Suite, which came with a comfy king sized bed (that’s made for lie-ins) and looked out towards the train station. The wet-room walk-in shower and bathroom was sizable and perfect for pampering.

The generously sized kitchen with coffee machine, oven and all the latest mod cons you could need for a short stay. The living area was large with a wooden dining table for four, sofa and widescreen TV. Food And Drink There are plenty of options within Ducie Street Warehouse where you can work, dine and drink. The Lounge is a vast central space, which during the day offers informal food and drink, but by night flips into a place for gratifying liquid refreshments. The Restaurant is a classic take on a modern brasserie, open for lunch and dinner. The Counter is a beautiful, bluette tiled deli counter serving hot and cold food, takeaway, coffees and a wide selection of drinks including beers, wines and canned cocktails.

Overall A little home-away-from-home in the heart of the city.

With a lounge, restaurant, bar, all-day deli counter, takeaway shop, cinema, outdoor terrace and fitness classes on offer, it is tempting to never leave the building. Best for couples, groups of friends or business trips. www.nativeplaces.com 77

Travel | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Treehouse London

Located in the heart of Marylebone, Craig Hough discovered a quirky city stay amongst the clouds Location True to its iconic location in one of London’s most vibrant neighbourhoods, Treehouse London is the gateway to everything British.

The hotel is perfectly perched across the street from the BBC, whose key worker team were some of the first to stay during the lockdown period, and a stone’s throw from the luxury stores on Regent and Bond Streets. The rooftop of the hotel offers epic views of the city, allowing you to take in the London Eye, The Shard, Canary Wharf and Regent’s Park.

For those looking for greenery, Treehouse is a quick walk to the city’s most iconic parks and sites, and just a short tube ride away from business districts.

Climb Up Confidently Safety is key at Treehouse London and before arriving at the hotel, the reservations team were thorough in explaining all the updated rules and regulations in terms of social distancing and sanitising. For ease and added safety, I was encouraged to download the Treehouse London app which enabled me to amend items to my booking, request in-room services, order my table at the bar and restaurant and even controlled the widescreen television in my room. Safety was also key on check-in which was swift, with a complimentary welfare pack that included a Liberty London handmade 78

face mask made by the General Manager’s wife.

Every effort was made in making certain I felt safe and comfortable.

Rooms The design of the hotel is quirky and made to appeal to the child in us all, climbing trees, seeking adventure. The design of the hotel is contemporary, with concrete ceilings, wooden floors, lots of colour, vintage furniture and even a little teddy bear sat waiting to greet you on arrival. The Treehouse theme (and lots of green) run through every area of the hotel, with fun added touches at every turn, such as a cuckoo clock adorning the bedroom wall.

I was fortunate enough to stay in a Clubhouse Suite which really had the “wow factor” as soon as

the door was opened. The sweeping city views were breath taking and included the famous BT Tower and 20 Fenchurch (a.k.a. the “Walkie Talkie Building”). The room had a gorgeous freestanding bath and separate wet room with a spacious walk-in rain shower and bespoke bathroom products. The living area had a comfy sofa, a tea and coffee making area (also with seats), a large vintage wooden desk under the flat screen TV and a record player (thankfully with records). The king size bed was decorated with organic bedding and the bed side tables were decorated with books and as an added quirk, an 8-ball.

Food and Drink The Nest is the bar area within the 16th floor of the hotel and boats unparalleled 360-degree views of London. I enjoyed an early cocktail before dinner, sat on the wraparound terrace looking out into the city. It was a really peaceful pre-meal drink, but staff did inform me in “usual times” they have a DJ spinning the decks until the early hours. The bar does serve bar bites but is predominantly a market-driven cocktail bar that also offers a curated selection of wine and beer.

Oe floor down from The Nest is the main restaurant, Madera which is described as “the little sister to Los Angeles-based Toca Madera”. The menu offers unique interpretations of Mexican

food and cocktails served across breakfast, lunch and dinner. The friendly waiter informed me the main dishes use a signature mole which is a unique blend of nearly 30 ingredients that are simmered and smoked for over 24 hours and is a recipe that has been in the chef’s family for generations. With this information I opted for the Chef’s Enchiladas which were soft corn tortillas served with black beans and coriander lime rice, topped with stinging nettle cheddar with your choice of sauce (oaxacan mole negro or tomatillo coriander chile sauce). The flavours whirling around my mouth were next level and I booked to return to the restaurant the very next month as I wanted to delve deeper into the menu.

Overall For those looking to live the high life, Treehouse London offers an ideal location, with epic 360-degree rooftop views of the city, a delicious cocktail menu and food to make your taste buds scream with excitement. www.treehousehotels.com/london 79

Turnberry Simon Williams and Bryony Cook visit Turnberry, a Luxury Collection Resort in Scotland for a long weekend away post-lockdown

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ocated on the Firth of Clyde, on the beautiful Ayrshire coastline of South West Scotland, Turnberry is ideally situated and easily accessible from Cheshire for a long weekend break (around a 4-5 hour drive from Chester). It’s around an hour’s drive away from Glasgow Airport and the resort even has its own helipad for those looking to arrive by air!

When we arrived at Turnberry we were blown away by the stunning hotel, its grounds and the sea-views. Most recently, Turnberry was named Top 10 in Golf Digest’s “World’s 100 Greatest Courses” and from observing the impeccably maintained course and scenic views, you can see exactly why.

Throughout the duration of our stay at Turnberry, the service provided was second to none. On checking in, we were given an orientation tour and we could see straightaway how beautifully designed and kept the hotel was; a classic look with a modern twist. We were also told about the activities that were on offer, from golf, to outdoor pursuits such as horse riding, quad biking and clay pigeon shooting to name a few.

Unfortunately, due to the current restrictions, the leisure facilities were unavailable, but treatments could be booked in the ESPA spa

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and the fitness centre was still open for guests. There is also the chance to venture further afield from the hotel, for example you can go on a boat trip to nearby Ailsa Craig or enjoy the local sights such as Culzean Castle or the Heads of Ayr Farm Park. Turnberry is fantastic as you can do as little or as much as you like! The venue caters for a mixture of guests, from couples, to families, to groups of golfers, wedding guests and corporate events and pet-friendly selfcatering cottages are also available.

Following check in, we got to see our Deluxe Ocean Suite and all we could say was “wow”!

The room had views across the golf course over to the sea. The vast space included a separate dressing table area (with a built-in mirror and hairdryer area), a separate wardroom room, reading area, modern TV and built in kettle and coffee machine. The luxurious bathroom had a freestanding bath as well as a separate shower. Taking in all of the details, we felt as though everything had been thought of.

On our first evening and following a short ride in the hotel’s complimentary shuttle service, we had dinner at the clubhouse (The Duel in the Sun) and the incredible food set the tone for the weekend. We sampled the

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel

prawn cocktail and soup of the day, followed by Scottish Salmon and the luxury fish and chips.

We were told that the seafood was locally sourced, and you could tell with it being so fresh, as was the meat which is sourced from the local farm. After our meal, we had a drink whilst relaxing in the hotel’s Grand Tea Lounge and Bar, where you can order afternoon tea in the daytime and look out to the sea.

The following morning, we had breakfast in 1906, the fine dining restaurant which is named after the year the hotel opened. From the fresh orange juice to the fruit platter, pastries and menu hosting a variety of delicious cooked foods such as a full Scottish breakfast, it was the perfect start to the day. We were lucky to have a day full of sunshine and blue skies, and after breakfast, we walked down the beach from the hotel to the

Lighthouse, which is the halfway house for the golfers.

The costal walk was stunning, and we were able to sit looking across the sea during a coffee break at the Lighthouse. On our way back to the hotel, we walked along the golf course, via the castle and the monument located in the resort, and admired the views.

Following lunch in the clubhouse, which was an amazing club sandwich, and the best ham sandwich we’ve ever tried, we enjoyed sitting out with a drink and taking in the scenery. We then had fun trying our hand at some pitch and putt on the 18-hole course in front of the hotel, with the clubs and golf balls being provided by the hotel to guests taking part.

Our evening meal was in the lovely 1906 restaurant, where we were met by a sommelier who guided us during the evening on the wine pairing and a recommended digestif. We could have eaten everything on the menu but opted for the crabs and prawns to start, followed by the steak au poivre and the grilled lobster.

Again, the food was just amazing and as we had experienced throughout our stay, the service could not be faulted.

After another delicious breakfast, we were sorry that we had to check out and leave our newfound haven. Feeling a lot more refreshed and relaxed than when we did when we arrived a couple of days before, we left knowing that we will certainly be back! We would recommend Turnberry, a jewel on the Scottish coastline, to anyone looking for a truly luxurious, peaceful, break and an unforgettable experience to go with it.

Book the “All in at Turnberry” offer and enjoy a two, three or five night break at Turnberry and receive a luxury resort credit that varies by length of stay and includes an indulgent daily breakfast, www.trumphotels.com/turnberry 81

Travel | The CHESHIRE Magazine

T he I slan sland d

for E very veryo o ne As the new tier lockdown is introduced and more companies are taking the decision to work remotely, why work from home when you can work remotely in Barbados? Side-step a glum, Cheshire winter and spend your leisure time embracing the Bajan way of life with year-round sunshine, amazing cuisine and so much more in the Caribbean

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arbados is luxury at its very essence, an island that offers diversity in a warm and welcoming environment, that is guaranteed to exceed the expectations of the most discerning traveller. This year, business owners and office workers have discovered they can fulfil their role working from home and Barbados are offering a 12-month welcome stamp visa so UK workers can add a bit of spice to their work life.

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Travel | The CHESHIRE Magazine

What is the Barbados Welcome Stamp?

Barbados is now accepting applications for its recently launched 12-month Barbados Welcome Stamp visa. Those interested in living like a ‘Bajan’ for a year can visit www.Barbadoswelcomestamp.bb to apply for the opportunity to live and work remotely in paradise. Chairman of the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) Sunil Chatrani comments that due to many companies moving the majority of their workforce to working from home, Barbados is the perfect place to come and do this. “Barbados boasts the fastest fibre internet and mobile services in the Caribbean and with a range of different flexible office space locations the working environment in Barbados definitely enables you to get things done!”.

Barbados has been commended for how it has handled the virus thus far and has effective contact tracing protocols in place. Even as it has re-opened its borders, Barbados has established effective travel protocols with safety at the forefront of the measures in place.

Why work in Barbados?

Barbados is a dream destination! Set amongst lush, tropical surroundings, powder-sand beaches, and lapped by the cobalt waters of the Caribbean Sea, this Caribbean island is unique.

With the Bajan way of life offering a

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combination of ease and passion, there’s always something to entice you!

With its white sandy beaches and gorgeous Caribbean climate, Barbados is truly an island of luxury.

A visit to Barbados is an escape to a tropical paradise. The island offers today’s traveller the opportunity to fully immerse themselves into the culture, heritage, adventure, culinary and romantic exploits that the island has to offer.

From sophisticated dining in the island’s gastronomic gems to Bridgetown’s beautiful boutiques and sensational spa centres, there’s luxury to be found in every corner.

What is there to do?

From foodie experiences and tours to actionpacked beach activities like jet skiing, scuba diving and surfing, Barbados has a host of activities to keep you occupied during your year-long stay. Bajan’s love to party at any time of the day and organise events throughout the year, from dancing in a whirlwind of colours at Crop Over, to feasting at the Friday night fish fry. There are plenty of smaller festivals too, created by the island’s many communities to celebrate local and regional talent. With over one hundred restaurants on the island serving up award winning cuisine it is no surprise that Barbados is regarded as the culinary capital of the Caribbean. Regardless of how you decide

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

to tantalise your taste buds on the island, be sure to complement the meal with a refreshing cocktail prepared by one of their talented mixologists, infused with the indigenous spirit of the island, rum!

How do I get there?

After a hiatus of more than 15 years, Barbados will once again be serviced by British Airways from London Heathrow with a year-round service commencing this month. Barbados will now have enhanced domestic connectivity from all regions of the U.K., including cities such as Edinburgh, Glasgow and Newcastle, as well as the key Northwest England gateway of Manchester, Chester and Cheadle regions. The flight’s afternoon departure from the U.K. will also offer seamless connections to British Airways’ extensive European network, tapping into the major cities of Amsterdam, Paris, Frankfurt, Berlin, Madrid, Stockholm and Vienna. www.visitbarbabados.org

Birthplace of Rum Barbados is considered the birthplace of rum, and Mount Gay distillery - founded in 1703 – is believed to produce the oldest rum found anywhere in the world. Today’s connoisseurs always appreciate a gift bottle of Mount Gay Rum Extra Old. Rum is the essence of this Caribbean nation’s culture and is celebrated by every sector of society, from farm workers to property tycoons. Barbados rum is the best rum in the world and it’s the spirit of the island culture and history.

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YOU DON’T BUY A SPORTS CAR TO BLEND IN

TOYOTA GR SUPRA

LINDOP TOYOTA QUEENSFERRY lindopqueensferry.toyota.co.uk Model shown is Supra 3.0 Pro. Official fuel consumption figures in mpg (1/100km): combined 34.4 MPG. Combined CO2 188g/km *Figures are intended for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption and CO2 figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. The fuel consumption and CO2 produced under real life driving conditions will depend on a number of factors including the accessories fitted (post-registration), driving style, speed and vehicle load. All vehicles are certified according to the World Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP). CO2 figures (and hence car tax and recommended ‘on the road’ prices) may differ from information printed before 1st April 2020, due to a change in the official method of calculation. Please visit www. vehicle-certification-agency.gov.uk/fcb/wltp.asp or contact your local Toyota Centre for more information.

Drive Crack the

CODE

Free puzzles may ordinarily be reserved for Happy Meals and cereal boxes, but Rolls-Royce has decided to add one to its latest posse of special-edition cars. Based on the Wraith saloon, the Kryptos cars will house a host of tiny clues, from a cipher on the Spirit of Ecstasy bonnet mascot to a code across the width of the metal dashboard fascia. The code can be broken, and owners will be invited to send their best guesses to Rolls-Royce’s Goodwood HQ. Sadly, only 50 will be made, so just a handful of lucky buyers will get to play along. www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com

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DRIVE

Keeping you up to date with all the latest motoring and technology news WORDS: JAMES FOSSDYKE

RARE MEAT

If you thought Lamborghini’s latest hybrid supercar was special, wait until you see its drop-top sister.

W

hen Lamborghini first revealed the bonkers Sian hybrid supercar last year, it caused quite a stir. The Italian brand is famed for its dramatic styling and raucous engines, but even so, the 807bhp Sian was spectacular. And now it’s even more spectacular, because Lamborghini has – drumroll please – removed the roof.

Everything about the Sian Roadster boggles the mind, from the way the windscreen is almost horizontal to the complexity and delicacy of that sci-fi rear end. Then you find out the huge 6.5-litre V12 engine is paired with the same supercapacitor hybrid

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technology as the coupe, allowing it to shut down the engine while reversing into a parking space.

More to the point, it allows the lightweight monster to sprint from 0-62mph in less than three seconds and race on to a top speed of 217mph.

All of which will, undoubtedly, be a source of great amusement to the lucky owner of such a car. Sadly, as only 19 will be made and all 19 are already sold, you can’t head into your nearest showroom and buy one. But this car isn’t trying to outsell the VW Golf, or even turn a profit; it’s Lamborghini’s way of showing that even in the brave new world of hybrid hypercars, the raging bull’s still got it. £TBC, www.lamborghini.com

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Drive

ARE WE NEARLY THERE YET? YES The world of family cars has moved quickly. Just a few years ago, Dad’s taxi was a lumbering diesel-powered peoplecarrier full of dog hair and sick bags, but since the advent of the SUV, ferrying the family around has become a more stylish affair. And much faster. That’s thanks in part to the Porsche Cayenne – the car that showed us SUVs didn’t have to be slow. The latest model is the best yet, but Porsche thinks it can get even better with the new GTS version, which sits between the hardcore Turbo and the more comfortable S. Available as a ‘standard’ Cayenne SUV or as a sleeker Cayenne Coupe, the GTS gets a heavy-metal V8 engine with 453bhp and a top speed of 168mph, plus lowered suspension, a sports exhaust and even sportier styling. Could it be the sweet spot in the Cayenne range?

From £85,930 www.porsche.com

loves

Q CAR

PRINCESS AND THE SEA Italian design house Pininfarina has long been renowned for its eye-catching creations, but few will turn as many heads as this when it glides into port. Built here in the UK by Princess Yachts, the X95 is designed for “those who want something different from their yacht”. We’re assuming that ‘something’ is to look like a Bond villain as you cruise around the world, exploring sunnier shores than those of the UK. Powered by two MAN V12 engines with 1,900 horsepower, the X95 will manage speeds of up to 30mph while carrying more than 13,000 litres of fuel and up to six guests. £POA, www.princessyachts.com

In the pantheon of medium-sized family SUVs, the Audi Q5 has always been there or thereabouts. Maybe it isn’t the most exciting choice, but it’s perfect in pretty much every measurable way. Now, though, Audi says it’s made the Q5 even better, modernising the looks and updating the interior with high-tech screens and gizmos. There are cleaner, more efficient engines, too, while Audi claims updates to the suspension make the car more comfortable and more fun to drive. New high-end trim levels are simply the icing on the cake.

From £42,950, www.audi.co.uk

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Drive

SEVENTH

HEAVEN 2020 may have gotten off to a bad start, but James Fossdyke reckons cars such as the BMW 7 Series are the light at the end of the tunnel.

C

oronavirus has impacted us all in any number of ways. It has snatched lives and jobs from right under our mask-covered noses, crippling our economy and effectively wiping out entire companies faster than you can say “stay alert”.

Nothing and nobody has been safe. Politicians and royalty were laid low, and huge firms have hit financial trouble.

When the storm has passed, the world will look different, with new priorities, new ways of working and new ways of getting around, but that isn’t to say it will be worse. Not when cars like this exist. It’s called the BMW 7 Series, and coronavirus has just seen it promoted from the position of ‘lackey that picks you up from the station’ to become the star of the show; the high-speed locomotive itself.

Let me explain. Rather than donning one of those irritating, stifling ‘face coverings’, risking 14 days of quarantine (or worse) and boarding the first-class carriage, the world’s chief executives are looking at new ways of getting to

meetings and events. Of course, some are going all high-tech and meeting clients over Zoom or FaceTime, but if you really need to press the flesh (or touch elbows in an awkward, biosecure way), you’ll be needing a big, luxury saloon all to yourself.

And saloons don’t come much bigger or more luxurious than this. The 7 Series made its name ferrying VIPs up and down the German motorway network in immense comfort and at very high speed, so its train-rivalling credentials are strong. And that was before this new version arrived, quietly slinking its way into the market before proclaiming itself even better than its predecessor.

Admittedly, it doesn’t look much better. In fact, it looks significantly worse, thanks to that enormous front grille. When I first saw that, I thought it was a deepfake – a terrifying example of why practical jokers shouldn’t be allowed access to Photoshop – but no. Someone at BMW thought that grille was acceptable. After lots of squinting and slowly backing away, I did eventually manage to make it look halfway reasonable… by removing my contact lenses.

If we forget the grille and the cheap-shot jokes, though, the 7 Series looks quite good.

Sure, it does look a bit like every other BMW saloon you’ve ever seen, but that’s no bad thing. The ‘ugly era’ of the early 2000s has gone, and BeeEms now look smart and respectable once more.

They’re also famous for being brilliant to drive, although it’s probably safe to say the company’s marketeers didn’t have the 7 Series in mind when they came up with their “joy of 91

Drive | The CHESHIRE Magazine

BMW 730Ld

driving” strapline. I’m not for a moment suggesting the big saloon is bad – the steering is precise, the ride is supple and the big petrol and diesel engines are all smoother than George Clooney – but the 7 Series is still best experienced from the rear seats.

Those in the car industry often refer to the back seats as a “bench”, and as long as the car in question is a VW Golf, it’s quite an apt description. But in a 7 Series, they’re a bit more luxurious than that. Wrapped in marshmallow-soft leather and blessed with the adjustability of a dentist’s chair, they look as though they came from a high-class business jet. And their occupants get more room than most bizjet passengers, especially in a long-wheelbase model. If, like me, you’re more than six feet tall, you probably won’t be able to straighten your legs completely, but you might get close.

And whatever you want to do with all that space, you can get a bit of privacy while you’re doing it. There are handily placed sun blinds (electrically operated, of course) in the door and rear window, as well as the option of tinted rear glass. Strangely, it wasn’t fitted to my test car, but it’s an extra that’s well worth selecting.

Once you’ve cocooned yourself in the car, you can further explore the limits of comfort thanks to the clever tablet control system.

Neatly stowed in the central arm rest is a removable tablet computer, which can be passed around the car and used to control

Price from: £74,620 Top speed: 155mph Engine: 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesel Gearbox: Eight-speed automatic 0-62mph: 6.0 seconds Power: 282bhp

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pretty much everything. Want to change the radio station? Kiss FM is just a few taps away.

Fancy some mood lighting? Tap, tap, done.

Not only is this convenient for rear-seat passengers, but it means the two screens mounted on the back of the front seats don’t get coated with grubby fingerprints. That leaves them crystal clear to show you the latest news, re-runs of Homes Under the Hammer, or anything else that takes your fancy. And to ensure only you can hear Dion Dublin swoon over a rough-and-ready semi in an equally rough-and-ready part of Gloucester, you can draw a pair of wireless headphones from their hidey-hole in the door pocket.

If you can forgive the grille, and the fact you’ll be swapping the first-class lounge at Euston Station with the Roadchef at Norton Canes, the 7 Series gives us hope. Step inside one of these, and you know there’s a lot to be said for a world of social distancing – a world in which personal mobility trumps mass transport.

The only catch is its arch rival: the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The Merc is very slightly more comfortable and much better looking, although the BMW’s the better car if you fancy taking the wheel yourself. I prefer the interior of the 7 Series, too. Pay your money, take your choice.

T HE AR T OF LAW

CORP ORATE | COMMERCIAL LIT IG ATION | FAMILY | PRO PERTY CONV EYAN CING | EMPLO YMENT W ILLS | PRO BATE jolliffes.com | 01244 310 022 | law@jolliffes.com 6 St. John Street, Chester, CH1 1DA

Feature | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Pitching In Northwest Football Awards

2020

Finalists Announced The judging panel has met, the public votes have been counted and the Pitching In Northwest Football Awards 2020 finalists have been chosen

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ow in its 13th year, and in these strangest of times, the 2020 Pitching In Northwest Football Awards Ceremony on Monday, 9th November will be unlike ever before, but will be no less exciting, seeing honours awarded to those who have achieved footballing excellence both on and off the pitch in this unprecedented 2019/20 season, from grassroots level through to the elite level of the beautiful game.

All honours for the Pitching In Northwest Football Awards 2020 (NWFA) will be announced in a digital ceremony taking place across the Northwest Football Awards’ social channels and website from 10.00 am on Monday, 9th November.

This year, the NWFA is honoured to again be supporting the Darby Rimmer Foundation. Former Liverpool, Rochdale and Bolton Wanderers footballer, Stephen Darby, together with his close friend and former British Forces veteran, Chris Rimmer, set up the Darby Rimmer MND Foundation after Stephen’s sudden retirement from football in September 2018, on being diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND), aged just 29. MND is a degenerative condition that affects how nerves in the brain and spinal cord function.

There is currently no cure.

Laura Wolfe, speaking on behalf of the Pitching In Northwest Football Awards said, “Despite the unprecedented times that we find

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ourselves in, the entries this year were no less impressive and the judges’ decisions were more difficult than ever. It was important that we, at the NWFA, even in this most difficult of years, went ahead with the 2020 Awards and recognised the incredible work going on at all levels of the game across our region, both on the pitch and behind the scenes. As well as the trophies and celebrations at the upper levels of the game, at the other end of the scale, it has been a tough year off the field for many of our clubs, and it would be remiss of us not to recognise this and show our support for the clubs, staff and fans who have been through and still continue to live through such tough times.”

To view the full list of finalists, visit www.northwestfootballawards.com More information about the Darby Rimmer Foundation at www.darbyrimmermnd.co.uk To follow the awards being announced on Monday, 9th November from 10.00 am, go to: Twitter: @NWFAwards, Instagram: @NWFAwards, Facebook: @NWFAwards

Home Winter in the

Tropics

Shorter days and longer nights may be

coming but it is easy to bring a splash of the tropics into your home with the new wallpaper collection from Elizabeth Ockford. The Islands Collection includes ten designs in a variety of colourways, we particularly love this opulent Bahama… What’s more for every roll purchased the company will plant one tree in collaboration with One Tree Planted.

Bahama Wine, £85 per roll, www.elizabethockford.com

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Newconcept concept for for the the active active over New over 55s 55s offering offering beautiful collection collection of of cottages cottages and aabeautiful and apartments. apartments.

Sanctuary, Wilmslow is an exclusive, gated community offering a collection Sanctuary, Wilmslow is an exclusive, gated community offering a collection of stunning 2 & 3 bedroom homes set in an enviable Cheshire location. of stunning 2 & 3 bedroom homes set in an enviable Cheshire location.

This innovative concept from Jones Homes offers bespoke mature living for the active This innovative concept from Jones Homes offers bespoke mature living for the active over 55s looking for something a little different. Our low maintenance, high specification over 55s looking for something a little different. Our low maintenance, high specification homes have all been built with your lifestyle, security and independence in mind. homes have all been built with your lifestyle, security and independence in mind.

With 2 bedroom apartments from £320,000 and 2 & 3 bedroom cottages ready to move into With 2from bedroom apartments from has £320,000 and a 2 better & 3 bedroom move into £365,000, there really never been time to cottages buy your ready dreamto home. from £365,000, there really has never been a better time to buy your dream home.

Arrange your personal appointment to find out more Arrangeand yourview personal appointment find out more our stunning Show to Homes. and view our stunning Show Homes.

The Clubhouse currently being built in the centre of the development will host a range of activities.

It will function as a hub for the new community, offering a fitness suite, hair and beauty treatment rooms, a sauna, steam room, residents’ bar, guest lounge and a function room with catering facilities.

Gemma Pownall, Sales and Marketing Director for Jones Homes North West, said: “The Sanctuary concept has evolved from the USA, where Jones Homes has built hundreds of homes for active over 55s. There is high demand for an age-exclusive setting among people who may be approaching retirement age, yet still live extremely busy lives.

They may travel a lot, run a business from home or pursue various leisure activities.

“Sanctuary Wilmslow is a secure environment which offers flexibility, freedom and peace of mind. Residents will have their own front door, plenty of living space and access to the facilities

Sanctuary, Off Coppice Way, Handforth, Wilmslow SK9 3PB 01625 253107

at The Clubhouse for leisure, entertaining friends or meeting new people. Each home has a balcony, garden or both, and pets are welcome.

“Many of the homes can accommodate a lift, either now or in the future, so residents won’t have to face the prospect of a move later in life. We offer tailored domestic or care packages and have a management team on-site who can assist with anything our residents need. We can even help people to sell their current home and arrange removals.”

The location of Sanctuary Wilmslow is ideal for active adults who want to be well connected. The development sits off Coppice Way, close to Handforth Dean Retail Park, within walking distance of Handforth Railway Station and there are gyms, golf clubs and leisure facilities nearby. Manchester Airport is less than 5 miles away.

The Sanctuary concept will soon be launched in Greater Manchester, with work underway on 35 homes for active over 55s in the grounds of the Last Drop Village Hotel in Bolton.

jones-homes.co.uk

Interiors News FINISHING TOUCHES

The very latest news, advice and trends from the world of interior design AD EXCESTIS MAIO BERIBUSCIM VOLUM ACCABOR MOD ET ACCULLUPTUS ET UT QUAS UNTIO EXCERERFERUM WORDS: LOUISA WARDE VELECTIOS MOLORE CORUM VOLUPTI AUT INVEL IUS APELIGNITIIS INIS NON CONEM IL IPSAM, CUPTATE MPELLOREMPOS EST UT ET RE RE, SAM LAUT QUUNTIOS MOD MAIO. ITAE QUISTOT ATEMPOR EHENDIT EIUNT

ART LIFE

Artsy and full of colour, Art Life features a rainbow palette of bright and bold colours to choose from. Pick one colour and use it as an accent in your home or go all out, mixing and matching from the entire palette as you go.

There are no rules!

1- Collection of art posters including Matisse-inspired, from £8.95, www.desenio.com 2- Moonshine Floor Lamp, £195, www.pooky.com 3- Yellow Linen Hedgerow Cushion, £45, www.helenround.com 4- Bold Monkey Devilish Bulldog Deco Light, £69, www.cuckooland.com 5- Vintage Linen Pouf Nomad Gypsy Ochre, £POA, www.mindtheg.com 6- Dubreil & Pilato Sofa Bed Clam, www.ligne-roset.com/uk

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Home

3 O F T H E B E S T … FA U X F L O W E R S

A DASH OF DRAMA

ARTSY SUCCULENT

AN ELEGANT ADDITION

Faux Magnolia, Eucalyptus &

Faux Stag Horn Fern Plant (small),

White Orchid in Pot (medium),

Hydrangea Bunch, £130, www.oka.com

£29.99, www.dowsingandreynolds.com

£375, www.sweetpeaandwillow.com

NEW TO KNUTSFORD In addition to the flagship Manchester store, Sofa style gurus, Sofas & Stuff, have opened a new store in the heart of Knutsford, offering the chance to sample the seating offerings and generally be inspired. The experts will also be on hand to offer style advice and private design consultations at no extra cost. With the nights closing in, there’s no better time to curl up on a cosy sofa and relax.

Sofas & Stuff, 3-7 Canute Place, Knutsford, WA16 6BQ, www.sofasandstuff.com

GET SET… BAKE Bake Off is back and we are inspired to create our own masterpieces in the kitchen. Whether you are worthy of the Hollywood Handshake or master of the meltdown, we have a bit of a crush on this Kenwood stand mixer. Looking good. And it has been awarded Quiet Mark status, meaning you can keep an eye on the competition whilst you bake.

Kenwood kMix Stand Mixer, £599, www.quietmark.com

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· TA K E T W O ·

One to Watch

FINISHING TOUCHES YEAR-ROUND WREATHS

AD EXCESTIS MAIO BERIBUSCIM VOLUM ACCABOR MOD ET ACCULLUPTUS ET UT QUAS UNTIO EXCERERFERUM VELECTIOS MOLORE CORUM VOLUPTI AUT INVEL IUS APELIGNITIIS INIS NON CONEM IL IPSAM, CUPTATE MPELLOREMPOS EST UT ET RE RE, SAM LAUT QUUNTIOS MOD MAIO. ITAE QUISTOT ATEMPOR EHENDIT EIUNT

Fir Wreath with Succulents, £74.99, www.giselagraham.co.uk

BETTY BOYNS DESIGNS

Silver Feather Wreath, £59, www.ellajames.co.uk

FRESH TO YOUR DOOR Smith & Munson are fifth generation growers of beautiful lilies and tulips in Lincolnshire. Previously supplying only florists and retailers, they are now offering their hand-picked, hand-packed flowers direct to the public for the first time this Christmas. Choose from parrot or fringe tulips and oriental or pollen-free lilies, treat yourself this season.

20 stems of tulips from £20 and ten stems of lilies from £30, www.smithandmunson.com

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Designer and artist Paula Nicholls, works under her mother’s maiden name of Betty Boyns, creating prints and postcards focusing on coastal area near her Cornish home, and her love of animals. Beautifully reproduced the collections highlight fond memories of holidays past with a twinkle of Cornish charm.

From £16, www.bettyboynsdesigns.co.uk

‘The Edit’ is your weekly curated selection of the latest features, what’s on and events delivered directly to your device to read at your leisure.

Keep an eye out for upcoming exclusive offers, select invitations, early releases and prize giveaways from some of our beautiful brands and business partners.

www.thecheshiremagazine.co.uk/newsletter @thecheshiremagazine

@TheCheshireMagazine

@TheCheshireMag

Home | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Feature

LIG LI G HT or DAR ARK K Which side will you be on? Will you dive into dark bathrooms as we approach winter, with a sense of drama, or will you keep it light and natural, for a clean all round look? The decision is yours…

AU NATURALE #1 - Dawn Freestanding Bath, £2,395, www.watersbaths.co.uk #2 - Sweet Fennel Soap, £5, www.authentichouse.co.uk #3 - Small Velvet Box with Coral Beads, £30, www.thegreyworks.com #4 - Barrydale Towels, £35, www.crafteditions.co.uk #5 - Essentials Espa Bamboo Storage Caddy, £39, www.made.com #6 - Gold Rattan Star Storage Baskets, £69, www.ellajames.co.uk #7 - Sage and Clare Nudie Rudie Bathmat, £59, www.antipodean.co.uk

#2

#1

#3

#4

#5

#6

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#7

Homes and Interiors

#1

#2

#3 #4 #5 #6

THE DARK SIDE #1 - Grazia Hexagon Décor Tiles, £27, www.tilemountain.co.uk #2 - The Flower Lady Scented Candle, £29.95, www.mintandmay.co.uk

#7

#8

#3 - Electric Blue Lagoon Wallpaper, £120, www.thecuriousdepartment.com #4 - Petra Bathtub, www.maisonvalentina.net #5 - INGA Bathroom Tap, £139.99, www.dowsingandreynolds.com #6 - Mini mirrors, £1, www.poundland.co.uk #7 - GoodHome Bathroom Paint, £16, www.diy.com #8 - Adelphi Bathroom Pendant Light, £65, www.gardentrading.co.uk

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Promotion | The CHESHIRE Magazine

You r Sanctuary Awa its Having built hundreds of similar homes in America, Jones Homes launches a new approach to age-exclusive living for those who still lead extremely active lives

T

here is high demand for age-exclusive developments but Sanctuary Wilmslow takes it to the next level, realising that homeowners may travel a lot, run business still and/or pursue countless leisure activities, redefining the notion of retirement.

This innovative approach offers maintenancefree, adaptable, lifetime homes in a secure environment which, in turn, means flexibility, freedom and peace of mind. Residents will have their own front door, plenty of living space and access to the facilities at The Clubhouse for leisure, entertaining friends or meeting new people. Each home has a balcony, garden or both, and pets are welcome.

Residents can pursue an active lifestyle knowing that their home is fully maintained and tasks such as gardening, cleaning and laundry can be taken care of if they wish. Many of the homes can accommodate a lift, either now or in the future, so residents won’t have to face the prospect of a move later in life.

Furthermore there are tailored care packages on offer, if

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required, and a management team on-site who can assist with anything a resident needs. They can even help people to sell their current home and arrange removals.

Sanctuary Wilmslow is a gated development of 73 two and three-bedroom cottages and twobedroom apartments, all built to the exceptionally high standards on which Jones Homes has forged its reputation.

The Clubhouse is currently being built in the centre of the development and will host a range of activities. It will function as a hub for the new community, offering a fitness suite, hair and beauty treatment rooms, a sauna, steam room, residents’ bar, guest lounge and a function room with catering facilities.

The location of Sanctuary Wilmslow is ideal for active adults who want to be well connected. The development sits off Coppice Way, close to Handforth Dean Retail Park, within walking distance of Handforth Railway Station and there are gyms, golf clubs and leisure facilities nearby.

Manchester Airport is less than five miles away.

Under the umbrella of The Emerson Group, Jones Homes has a distinguished heritage in creating age-exclusive communities in the UK and USA. The Sanctuary concept will soon be launched in Greater Manchester, with work underway on 35 homes for active over 55s in the grounds of the Last Drop Village Hotel in Bolton.

Homes at Sanctuary Wilmslow are currently priced from £320,000 for a two-bedroom apartment with two bathrooms. Two-bedroom cottages start at £365,000.

To find out more about Sanctuary Wilmslow, call 01625 253107 or visit jones-homes.co.uk

•

6 Bed Villa For Sale •

Marbella, Elviria, Málaga, Spain Impressive and fully renovated villa situated in the exclusive area of Elviria, an incomparable environment of nature with breath-taking views of the Mediterranean coast and Africa. This amazing modern style villa built over 3 levels enjoys an elevated position within private gardens assuring the utmost privacy, yet is only 5 minutes from Marbella’s best beaches and a short drive away from Marbella centre.

Reference: CSP-V1712 • Sale: 5,995,000€ • Beds / Baths: 6 / 6 • Built / Plot: 792m² / 3,579m² info@crystalshore-properties.com

www.crystalshore-properties.com

Home | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Case Study

MODERN

MILL HOUSE The kitchen has become the heart of the home but there’s no reason you can’t go contemporary in a period property as proven with this new kitchen design for a home in Tarporley The Brief: A grade II listed mill house sitting on the edge of an old mill pond.

The client’s previous residence was a very contemporary new build that he commissioned from scratch so moving to a grade II listed cottage was a very different situation. They wanted to create a home that was warm and welcoming but at the same time still focus on great interior design. Creating a kitchen/living area was really important and they wanted it to be both functional, with all the mod cons, and have a modern feel but also be sympathetic to the style and age of the building.

The Design: In order to achieve the brief, it was really important to focus time-honoured joinery techniques and create furniture that had lots of character and showed great attention to detail.

The client wanted modern appliances but as they also wanted to have some ties to the properties past we decided we should keep the Aga range cooker, although this was replaced with a modern electric Aga so as to be more efficient and also create a warm and cosy feel to the space.

The colour scheme was

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also important to the overall feel of the kitchen, rather than using light colours as with so many designs deep dark colours were selected and mixed with the luxurious feel of solid walnut. The warmth that the wood grain gives off is so welcoming and helps to make the space feel cosy.

A lot of what makes this design so special is the smaller details. The island unit is just simple flat drawers but we added drama by wrapping them in a 45-degree solid walnut frame that helps draw the eye to the timber and this was then wrapped in a cover of Neolith iron moss worksurfaces which are scratch and heat resistant so this makes the island very user friendly. The same detail is echoed all over the kitchen helping to link the separate areas together.

One of the key elements of the design was an area to entertain. An open bar section for drinks preparation was incorporated with some lovely details such as the floating shelf unit that sits in front of antiqued mirror and has soft white lighting to create a nice ambience of an evening, and the dovetailing on the drawers and to create a really nice intersection that is visible on the fronts.

Sticking with the theme of 45-degrees the wall panelling was made in a chevron pattern and this was also echoed on the tall unit doors which creates a nice effect and point of interest helping to create a seamless transition from one panel to the next. www.thecheshirekitchencompany.com

Interiors Homes Homes and and Interiors

The Details Furniture – The Cheshire Kitchen Company Range cooker – Aga Integrated appliances – Gaggenau Wine fridge – Norcool Extraction – Westin Tap – Zip/MGS Sink – Shaws of Darwin Worksurfaces – Neolith Iron Moss

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Property News The top homes and news from the property market WORDS: LOUISA WARDE

MILLION DOLLAR BEACH HOUSE The company behind Netflix’s latest reality TV show, Nest Seekers International has turned its attention to the UK. With offices in Moorgate, London and Oxford Street, Manchester, the company is embarking upon educating us to a new way of thinking about selling and buying property and it already has some of the UK’s most spectacular homes on its books. www.nestseekers.com

COMMUNITY CASH

A host of mental health projects, food banks, schemes to help the homeless, schools and sports clubs are among the latest local good causes to receive support form homebuilder Redrow. The latest pot of £10,000 attached to new homes being built at Kings Moat Garden Village, off Wrexham brings the total gifted via community funds to more than £130,000.

Soul Kitchen has received £750 towards providing food and support for those who are homeless or in need in Chester. www.redrow.co.uk

WHERE THE STREETS HAVE YOUR NAME When we see a street with our name on, we can’t help but get a little excited. But how many streets contain your name? Where can you find them? And, how much would it cost to live there?

Well, a new tool from Barratt Homes could give you the answer…

The most expensive name is Alec (£5.8m), the cheapest name is Alisha (£35,000) and the most popular are John and Victoria. You can also check out your favourite fictional streets from Ramsay Street in Rochdale to Privet Drive.

See for yourself at www.barratthomes.co.uk/ street-name-finder/

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New Showroom Store Street Bollington Cheshire SK10 5PN t: 01625 466200 e: showroom@portraitpools.com w: portraitpools.com

RENAISSANCE LONDON

FIREPLACE AND LIGHTING SPECIALIST Renaissance London, 193 - 195 City Road, Shoreditch, London, EC1V 1JN www.renaissancelondon.com T:020 7251 8844 E:info@renaissancelondon.com FOLLOW US

@RENAISSANCELONDON

Q&A

with

ZOE HALL & SARAH HARRY, FOUNDERS OF WILD BRAMBLE BLOOMS & WILD BRAMBLE LIVING Tell us a bit more about yourselves…

We have a lot in common with similar interests and loves for flowers, interiors and business. As our friendship bloomed, so did our desire to start a business. So, in July 2019, we opened our beautiful little florist in Beeston, and within a year we decided to expand our business. With our love for homewares and interiors we decided to open Wild Bramble Living in July 2020, so that we had more space to showcase our lovely giftware and homewares.

We are both very creative people and love to create wild rustic floral designs for everyday joy, events and weddings bringing the beauty of the outside world in.

Sarah lives in Chester with her husband Ollie and three children. Zoe lives in Alpraham with her husband Matt and her two children. Family life keeps us busy too, however we love what we do and wouldn’t change it for the world!

Who are your greatest influences?

The natural world. We like our designs to look wild and natural like the flowers have just been picked from the countryside and we often add dried flowers to help give this natural look. Plus, it’s very on-trend.

This goes for our Living shop too. We source many eco-friendly products as well as supporting small business such as Liga, East Of India, Choc Affair, Chilly Bottles and Chickidee. Our interior influence, we would say is Scandi and rustic.

What have been some of your best jobs/experiences at work and why?

We are very proud to have been asked to, and to have made a posy for Sophie, Her Royal Highness the Countess of Wessex when she visited Tarporley War Memorial Hospital last year.

Traditional vs contemporary style?

An eclectic mix of the both.

What would you consider your greatest achievement?

Opening a second shop within a year, has been a dream come true. We wouldn’t have been able to do this without our great team!

What would your superpower be?

To be able to be in two places at once! We love being in our shops to meet and greet our lovely customers, however having the two shops means we can’t be in two places at once. www.wildbrambleblooms.co.uk

P.S. Last book you read?

Sarah: Still – The Slow Home by Natalie Walton Zoe: The Little Book of Hygge by Meik Wiking Dream buy?

A holiday home in Rhosneigr (Anglesey)

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Hot Property

ONE TOWER BRIDGE ON THE BANKS OF THE THAMES FOUR-BEDROOM APARTMENT OFFERING FIVE-STAR LIFESTYLE ÂŁ6,250,000

A

rare opportunity to find a home adjacent to London’s most recognisable landmarks, One Tower Bridge was designed by award-winning architects, Squire and Partners, and delivered by Berkeley Homes in 2017.

Every element of this sumptuous apartment, set on the fourth floor combines forward-thinking design.

Interiors inspired by heritage and modernity, with indulgent pallete consisting of dark golds, ebony and polished champagne bronze, living spaces combining rich natural tones, luxurious textures and opulent finishes carefully planned by an award-winning practice - United Designers.

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Nearly 2,350 square feet (or 215 sqm) provides four bedrooms, four bespoke marble bathrooms, designer kitchen with dark marble worktops and top of the range Miele appliances. Oak parquet flooring, platinum silk wallpapers and smart home technology with subtle lighting system are highlights in the living

areas. And the entertaining space features the show stopping views of the Tower Bridge, The Tower of London, Potters Field Park, The City and beyond.

Within the building is a luxury spa with 20m swimming pool, sauna, steam room, vanity pool, massage and beauty treatments, golf simulator,

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Home

personal trainer and state-of-the-art gymnasium. There is also a business lounge and boardroom accommodating up to 12 people.

Close to The Royal Exchange and Bond Street as well as the restaurant and bar scene, London Bridge Station is nearby offering stress-free journeys on the Underground and rail services to Gatwick Airport and The South.

Jubilee and Northern Underground lines at nearby London Bridge Station provide stress free access to some key destinations, also including terminus for speedy railway services to Gatwick Airport and Southern England.

The property is leasehold with 995 years remaining.

For further information contact Arthur Kotliarovas on 020 7190 9737 / 077 4613 6073 or ArthurK@nestseekers.com, www.nestseekers.com

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Home | Homes and Interiors The CHESHIRE Magazine

And Finally ...

HIGH PRESENCE Christmas is coming and I absolutely love this room setting. It’s all about the chandelier from the lighting lovers at Pooky. Carefully constructed out of antiqued brasswork with intricate glass rods around the ovals, it’s definitely a statement piece.

Pooky Elysee Chandelier, £482, www.pooky.com

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