The Cheshire Magazine - May 21

MAY 2021 s ISSUE 085

DRESS UP Feel Good Clogau’s perfect party pieces

Muddy Boots SLEEPOVERS Introducing the new luxury themed party

Celebrations in the Sky with Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard

SKIN CAVIAR CAVIAR SKIN EYE LIFT LIFT EYE REVIVE REVIVE∙ ∙RAISE RAISE∙ ∙REDEFINE REDEFINE THE THEGAZE GAZEISISREAWAKENED REAWAKENED

AANEW SERUM INFUSED WITH CAVIAR PREMIER NEWFOCUS FOCUSON ONEYES. EYES.THE THEFIRST FIRSTEYE EYE SERUM INFUSED WITH CAVIAR PREMIER – –THE MOST POTENT CAVIAR INCARNATION YET – THE MOST POTENT CAVIAR INCARNATION YET – TO ENTIRE EYE AREA, INCLUDING BROWS. TOREVIVE, REVIVE,RAISE RAISEAND ANDREDEFINE REDEFINETHE THE ENTIRE EYE AREA, INCLUDING BROWS. AACAVIAR FUSION FRESHLY BLENDED WITH EACH USE CAVIAR FUSION FRESHLY BLENDED WITH EACH USE FOR A GAZE REAWAKENED. FOR A GAZE REAWAKENED.

INFUSED WITH CAVIAR PREMIER INFUSED WITH CAVIAR PREMIER

Tree of Life® Insignia Our Tree of Life® Insignia collection exudes minimalistic luxury. With the iconic filigree leaf motif serving as the focal point of this timeless design, each piece is expertly crafted and hand-finished. As with every piece of Clogau jewellery, this collection contains rare Welsh gold – the Gold of Royalty for over 100 years.

New Arrivals SS21 COLLECTIONS

MAY 2021 s ISSUE 085 s

Managing Director Kathryn Otto Editor Craig Hough Editorial Team Kevin Evans Toby Taylor Isla Wilson Contributers James Fossdyke Daniel Khan Design & Production Kate Woods Picture Editor Kat Hannon Business Development Scarlett Smith Charity and Event’s Coordinator Rachel O’Hare

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A Note From...

T

Where to find us...

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

he mercury is starting to climb, and warmer days are on the way. It’s time to look forward to a chilled glass of bubbles in the garden, by the pool, or on the beach to celebrate. As the country looks set to reunite and social plans begin to be made again, our May issue is filled with celebratory cheer.

We get the party started by talking to Nadia Raibin (p.16) whose company Mass Movement is responsible for producing huge spectacles for TV shows, live performances, award ceremonies and corporate events.

In Style, Clogau share their favourite party pieces (p.22) to wear at your next social soiree, and NYNNE showcase their spring/summer collection (p.28).

The celebration continues through to our Food and Drink pages where we talk to three northern companies who joined together to create a new unique luxury at home party (p.57) and look at some of the best meal boxes (p.62) to have delivered to your door. In Travel, we talk to the General Manager from Shangri-La Hotel (p.69) at The Shard in London about proposals in the sky and we look at how the Bajan’s celebrate (p.81) in the Caribbean. And, within our Home section, we highlight some ideas of partying al fresco style (p.92).

There is plenty more for you to enjoy throughout our May issue. So, kick back, relax with family or friends and look forward to sunny days ahead.

PARTNER

David M Robinson

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

Happy reading, Team Cheshire Magazine

PROUD TO

LIVERPOOL Harvey Nichols Beauty Bazaar

Frisør Salon & Wellness Jackson-Stops Oddfellows on the Park

cover On the

Golden bottle of champagne splashing confetti Photograph - Alexandra Golubtsova

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Contents FOOD & DRINK

A FEW OF OUR FAVOURITES

16

GET THE PARTY STARTED…WITH NADIA RAIBIN

The Mass Movement founder discusses her new venture

22

DRESS UP, FEEL GOOD

69

MEET THE HOTELIER

REGULARS

09

MY LIFE IN CHESHIRE Danielle Gregory, co-founder of Doll Beauty shares her life in Cheshire with us

MEET THE CHEF

62

CELEBRATE AT HOME

MULBERRY

28

GIRL POWER

Announce their made to last manifesto

Introducing the NYNNE Spring Summer 2021 collection

Fresh meals delivered direct to your door for the perfect party at home

HEALTH, BEAUTY & WELLNESS

35

BACK TO BEAUTY

38

GET SUMMER BODY READY

65

IN THE CITY

81

CELEBRATE BAJAN STYLE

We sample two of London’s top hotels

Party like a local in Barbados

Get back to your beautiful best with DD Clinical

A selection of new health and wellbeing technology

FAMILY

44

PET’S CORNER

Top pet purchases for your four-legged friend

DRIVE

86

STYLE

26

Antonio Cicero shares his recipe for ‘Stuffed Spatola’

TRAVEL

Clogau shares their perfect party pieces

We talk celebrations in the sky with Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard

54

SIMPLY STUNNING

James Fossdyke trials Lexus’ gorgeous new drop-top

HOME

92

BE THE HOST WITH THE MOST

98

Q&A WITH…

Al fresco style

Beth Webb, founder of Beth Webb Interiors

JAMES’ PLACES

Say I D O Just y� and a �ew...

All of the occasion, without all of the organisation!

Boutique, mid-week weddings for 30-50 people at James’ Places.

www. d re amve nu e s . c o. u k | 0 1 2 0 0 4 0 0 6 9 9

My life ...

DANIELLE GREGORY , CO-FOUNDER OF DOLL BEAUTY

How would you describe yourself ?

I’m always on the go. My friends would probably describe me as a million miles an hour!

Where is home? And work?

I live in Hoole, Chester but work takes me in between there and Bury most of the time. Doll recently moved into our new head office in Chester, with our new salon Doll Beauty HQ opening in Boughton. We’re also in the middle of planning our brand-new Doll Cafe so it’s safe to say there’s a lot going on.

What did you want to be when you were younger?

This is a tough one. It’s a toss up between being in a girl band or being an actress.

What do you love most about the industry you are in?

I love so many things about the beauty industry; but mostly it’s the connections and relationships we’ve built along the way.

The beauty community is such a great thing to be part of and has allowed us to be so creative over the years from new products to campaign shoots - we’re constantly inspired by the people around us.

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

Going on holiday is one of my favourite things to do. As soon as we’re allowed to travel I’ll be booking a trip away for sure; not before a salon pamper though! Through lockdown I’ve also

“When you work hard, stay true to yourself and others you can achieve anything” discovered a new-found love for the outdoors and have really enjoyed regular bike rides with my boyfriend, friends and my very own Dolly Parton in the front basket. She loves the feel of the wind in her whiskers bless her (Dolly Parton is a Pomeranian dog before anyone wonders).

What or who inspires you?

I take a lot of inspiration from business owners and other industry people. HUDA Beauty is a huge inspiration for me as well as Umar Kamani. What they have achieved in their careers is something I definitely aspire to.

What was the last gift you gave someone?

Me and Samantha (Co-Founder of Doll Beauty) regularly send other beauty boxes in the post. We love giving each other surprises so we pick a bunch of beauty products that we think each other will like each month - I can’t wait to see what Sam thinks of her next box.

Tell us a secret/fun fact?

My boyfriend is 23 - 14 years younger than me. He keeps me young.

Who or what would you place in Room 101?

Kitten Heels.

What’s been your biggest life lesson?

No matter where you come from and what you’ve been through, you can always achieve your dream. When you work hard, stay true to yourself and others you can achieve anything. www.dollbeauty.com 9

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

NOTEBOOK WORDS: CRAIG HOUGH

The Return of RHS Flower Show

The popular 5-day event

is set to make a welcome return this summer. This year will celebrate gardening and growing with inspiration and advice for everyone interested in growing plants, flowers and food for their health, well-being and the environment. Tatton’s unique ‘Young Designer of the Year’ competition as well as lots of family fun activities, talks and demonstrations should help inspire everyone’s creativity! www.rhs.org.uk

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Regulars | The CHESHIRE Magazine

17 - 20 SEP

Velio Festival Cholmondeley Castle The world’s first-ever immersive cycling festival comes to Cheshire. Renowned group Sister Sledge take centre stage alongside headliners Everything Everything, followed by performances from Friendly Fires (DJ set) and Mr Motivator. The Altitude Comedy Festival stage hosts Jason Manford, Marcus Brigstocke and more, and the La Discotheque host their own stage. www.velio.cc

What’s O n ?

9 - 1 JUL

Foodies Festival Tatton Park

18 JUN

An Evening with Belle Voci – Opera for Everyone Storyhouse Chester This summer Opera Duo Belle Voci are returning to Storyhouse for a special evening of music.

Chester’s duo reached the Finals of ITV’s The Voice, have released two albums and a single that reached Classical No. 1. The brand new show will feature songs that we all know and love mixed with a few beautiful undiscovered arias. www.storyhouse.com 12

The UK’s biggest food festival, returns this July, featuring BBC’s newly crowned MasterChef winner Tom Rhodes. Joining him is a star-studded cast of celebrity chefs including Alex Webb, champion of MasterChef: The Professionals, MasterChef 2021 finalist Laura Michael and 2016 Bake-Off winner Candice Brown. Visitors can experience food-themed fun such as Chefs Theatre, Street Food Avenue, Kids Cookery School and a huge exhibition where the best food and drink from the North West will be showcased. www.foodiesfestival.com

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

13 - 15 AUG

Deva Fest Chester Lake The family friendly music, food and lifestyle festival returns this summer with headline music acts announced over the three days including Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Heather Small, indie pop band Scouting For Girls, Dodgy and dance extravaganza Symphonic Ibiza plus much, much more. www.devafest.co.uk

5 - 9 OCT

Rock of Ages Manchester Opera House The hilarious musical comedy lavished with over 25 classic rock anthems, including ‘Don’t Stop Believin’, ‘We Built This City’, ‘The Final Countdown’, ‘Wanted Dead or Alive’, ‘Here I Go Again’, ‘Can’t Fight this Feeling’ and ‘I Want To Know What Love Is’, played loud and proud by a live band. Leave it all behind and lose yourself in a city and a time where the dreams are as big as the hair. www.rockofagesmusical.co.uk 4 SEP

An Intimate Evening With Brian Blessed The Bowdon Rooms in Altrincham This unmissable ‘evening with’ includes guests enjoying a star-studded red-carpet entrance, Champagne reception while enjoying world class live entertainment and unique Art installations showcasing Brian Blessed’s illustrious career on stage and screen. There will also be the opportunity to take part in a question-and-answer session and the opportunity to meet the legend himself. www.thebowdonrooms.co.uk 14 DEC - 1 JAN

Dreamgirls Liverpool Empire Theatre Featuring the classic songs ‘And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going’, ‘Listen’ and ‘One Night Only’, this sensational, multi-award winning production of Dreamgirls will commence its first ever tour of the UK, opening in Liverpool before visiting cities right across the country throughout 2022 and into 2023. www.dreamgirlsthemusical.co.uk 13

Regulars | The CHESHIRE Magazine

CHE HES SHI HIR RE LOVE OVES...

S...

Outdoor Dining Experiences This month we have amazing handpicked 4 experiences across English National Parks that celebrate the outdoors and rural life

Fossils, Forage & Feast with Hidden Horizons, North York Join experienced leaders to explore a hidden cove such as Boggle Hole or Runswick Bay on the North York Moors Heritage Coast. They’ll help you to find the secret creatures hiding in rock pools, to discover Jurassic fossils, forage for seashore snacks, and then to cook and eat some of the food you’ve found, which is extra tasty when cooked on an open beach fire! Depending on the wishes of the group the experience can include fossil hunting for Jurassic fossils from 200 million years ago, including dinosaur footprints and the world-famous ammonites and Whitby Jet, exploring the rock pools and rocky shoreline to meet the animals and plants that live there, some of which (seaweed, shell fish, crabs and lobsters) you will forage to provide a beach cooked meal.

Depending on the time of year/day, it may also be possible to add in an evening of stargazing.

Bait to Plate Fly Fishing, Fins & Fork, South Downs Start with a two-hour fly-fishing taster experience at Chalk Springs Trout Fishery nestled on the edge of the historic market town of Arundel in the South Downs. Then, with fish in hand - if you don’t catch one yourself one trout per person is provided - it’s over to Fins & Forks HQ for a hands-on session at the smokehouse kitchen. Prepare and cure your catch for the smoker choosing one of the signature cure flavourings. Your cold smoked trout will be posted to you after the session– perfect for brunch and sharing your story about the one that did not get away!

Dinner and Stargazing in Northumberland National Park Goats and Gourmet Safari in Northumberland National Park In the rolling hills one of Britain’s most ancient wild herds lives – the Cheviot goats. On this guided safari in stunning College Valley, you’ll step back in time. Discover the fascinating animals and the folklore around these magnificent shaggy beasts.

Returning from the hills you’ll take in breath-taking views and enjoy an alfresco two course gourmet lunch prepared by local chef Chris, from Fells Kitchen.

On the edge of the Kielder Water and Forest Park, nestled in the picturesque village of Wark, enjoy a five course taster menu in Battlesteads restaurant.

Then head up to the on-site dark sky observatory for an evening of stargazing. Awarded Dark Sky Stay and Gaze status by Northumberland Tourism, whether you are a novice astronomer or experienced galaxy hunter you can enjoy the stunning beauty of the night sky. www.experiences.nationalparks.uk

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As The

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Feature | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Get the Party Started…

WITH

Nadia Raibin

The founder of Mass Movement talks to Craig Hough about her career and new venture born during lockdown

T

ogether with her team of creative directors and choreographers, Nadia is responsible for producing huge spectacles for TV shows, live performances, award ceremonies and corporate events. Mass Movement provide dancers, choreographers, set designers to various shows including Strictly Come Dancing, Britain’s Got Talent and X Factor shows all across the world. The company has also worked on large scale sporting events such as the opening/closing ceremonies for the Champions League and the Olympics. Here, Nadia discusses how she came up with her new venture Waggy Caddy, whilst out walking her dog during lockdown. The product has proven successful amongst celebrity users with stars such as Alexandra Burke, Alex Light, Karen Hauer, Gemma Louise Atkinson, Kate Lawler and Natalie Appleton all happy customers.

Back in the eighties working on conferences for sports fashion brands you noticed that sports matches offered no pre-match entertainment. Having spoken to Wembley officials you convinced them of your vision to have entertainment before big games and were handed the 1991 Rugby World Cup closing ceremony with just a week’s notice.

16

How did you cope with that kind of pressure and how did you manifest this vision?

Fortunately, I was working on other projects alongside Wembley’s preferred technical house (who had delivered Live Aid from Wembley), so I knew we could handle the technical aspects needed like high quality broadcast sound, deliver an incredible daylight

pyrotechnic display, design and build large scale staging and provide all the technical wizards needed to support my vision - the theme of which was carnival.

My technical team thought I was slightly mad but definitely wanted to be involved as there had never been anything like it before, so we all threw ourselves into it working round the clock. When I think back, we must have been mad as we had just five days to find 300 school children who had to be choreographed to the second, dressed in team colours and taught to perform a large-scale performance on the hallowed turf.

On top of that, we had to engage 250 members of the army to form the sponsor’s logo in human form on the pitch to be broadcast from the blimp in the air, design and build giant colourful carnival floats - one for each of the two finalists teams and employ skilled carnival entertainers both on the floats and around the perimeter of the pitch, which in those days was called the ‘dog track’.

We also had to book about 150 other performers from jugglers to stilt-walkers, to face painters, who worked outside the stadium

to create the magic before the fans entered the arena, contact record labels and book a major international artist to perform from the centre stage. We had to manufacture flags from all the countries that had taken part and create a giant parade ahead of the finalists entering to play the match.

Thankfully everything went off perfectly and we all breathed a huge sigh of relief. I can’t say I’d ever do an event of that size in five days again though…but you live and learn!

Thinking about it now still gives me goosebumps as what the team accomplished in five days should really have taken at least two weeks.

After the success of this event, how did you see your company grow?

It was amazing really as we were then approached by different sporting bodies, like the FA, RFU, ECB, UEFA and other stadias and suddenly, before we knew it, we had carved out a whole new industry for literally thousands of skilled professionals and made entertainment part of every major sports event. it has brought fun and spectacle to so many occasions now I can’t imagine it not being part of any sporting event.

You credit Simon Cowell as one of your business idols. As a successful business entrepreneur, what is it about Mr Cowell that inspires you?

I think it was just his total belief that whatever he said he would do he did. it wasn’t that he

17

had any specific experience when he started out either, just the total belief he could do it.

Have you had the opportunity to work with him – how was the experience?

I met him originally at BMG. in those days I was managing a classical crossover group called Amici Forever, who were three guys and two girls – all fully trained opera singers. I had put them together and signed them to BMG and he was in the audience. He saw Amici Forever and promptly went on to form Il Divo. I like to think he learned something from me on that occasion!

As it’s our celebration issue, can you share some stories from some of your favourite events you’ve worked on?

Oh my goodness I’ve been so fortunate to do a whole raft of different amazing things. I guess a couple of the ones that spring to mind were bringing home ‘The Ashes’ to Trafalgar Square, which was just incredible, and, for the Commonwealth Games, we did the baton relay handover with Her Majesty the Queen in the grounds of Buckingham Palace. That was quite a moment going for production meetings at the Palace and parking my mini in the forecourt!

But my all-time favourite was producing the World Sports Awards at the Royal Albert Hall.

Icons like Mohammed Ali, Buzz Aldrin, Bryan Adams, Jimmy Connors, Damon Hill - in fact anyone who was anyone was there either receiving or presenting awards or in the audience. During the event we were presenting

18

a lifetime achievement award to Mohammed Ali, which was being given by Prince Albert of Monaco, Sir Roger Moore and Lennox Lewis.

With 55 seconds to go (and we were live to the world) Lennox went missing! I mean I couldn’t believe a Stage Manager assigned to him could actually lose Lennox Lewis … he is pretty hard to lose as he isn’t exactly small.

Pandemonium ensued backstage but he was found in the nick of time outside the stage door chatting to a fan and he was literally pushed onto the stage with no one any the wiser… phew!

With events looking set to return to some kind of normality– is there one event you aspire to work on?

It’s been a very difficult time for the events industry, but we are proud to be working on the UEFA Euro 2021 final closing ceremony on July 11th, at Wembley Stadium - which was postponed from last year due to covid. It will be nice to start this next chapter off where I began the first chapter. I just love what I do to be honest and am grateful we all get to go back to doing what we do best. I would love to do the Superbowl but they don’t really need me… but never say never.

TheCHESHIRE CHESHIREMagazine Magazine| Regulars | Feature The

“That was quite a moment going for production meetings at the Palace and parking my mini in the forecourt!”

During lockdown you launched a new business venture. Where did the idea for Waggy Caddy come from?

The pandemic and lockdown hit our industry extremely hard as theatres closed and live events were cancelled. With more time on my hands than usual, I was walking my gorgeous cockapoo Bentley every day at the local park in North London and it didn’t take me long to realise that there were suddenly a vast amount of new puppies around - with new owners - as well as a lot more people walking their dogs.

We were all laden down with a vast array of doggy stuff - balls, chuckers, water bottles, poo bags, frisbees etc. The inside of my car was also littered with more of Bentley’s stuff and the boot was a disgrace. It occurred to me that while I was waiting for my industry to right itself, I had time to create a solution to the problem of having to fill my pockets and car with all this stuff all over the place.

I did my research and could not find anything that gave you everything you needed in one simple carry bag that would make an owners’ life simple and do away with all the mess and having to stuff pockets with everything as well as clipping poo bags and water bottles to my coat. There was a huge gap in the market, and I decided to make Bentley his own easy to carry suitcase.

I knew all these dog owners would have all of this stuff all over the place and if there was a

way to provide doggy essentials conveniently and provide specially curated items for their fun, health and safety - and if it could be delivered in a clever carry all bag that would be a massive help to the owners.

I spoke to scores of dog owners that I saw out and about over a couple of months and made a list of every item they said they needed for their puppy or dog and it came to a staggering 19 items. Waggy Caddy was the answer - 19 doggy essentials specifically curated and delivered to your door in a clever carry-all bag.

And for owners who already had an abundance of dog stuff and do not need the essential items, they could simply purchase the bag to store everything in Tell us more about your four legged friend Bentley?

Bentley has been very busy…He is the CEO of WAGGY CADDY. Without him and all his stuff it would never have come about. He is our product tester and our brand ambassador. He features on all our ads. He is a busy boy and loving it. He has always loved everybody and everything and now he really enjoys being the boss for real. He loves his walks and the fact I can find everything he needs in an instant… www.waggycaddy.com

19

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Style

Beyon ond d Briilllla Br ance Representing eternal love

and romance, this Beyond Brilliance 18ct White Gold and Rose Gold Diamond Solitaire Ring has been exclusively designed for Beaverbrooks and is the only cut of this kind in the UK. 100 facets radiate from the centre of the diamond, for the most exceptional sparkle.

18ct White Gold and Rose Gold Diamond Solitaire Ring - £8,950, www.beaverbrooks.co.uk

21

Style | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Dress Up, Feel Good As our social calendars begin to fill up again, Clogau have put together a selection of the perfect pieces to accompany any upcoming event

W

ith lockdown finally beginning to ease it’s all about celebrating and embracing our new found freedom. So many special occasions, events and birthdays that have been postponed or missed can now be celebrated once more. From 12 months of being confined to our homes, we now have the opportunity to dress up, focus is on how we look and how we accessorise our outfits to make us feel good.

Clogau Celebration Clogau Celebration pieces are the perfect accessory to compliment your outfit! The inspiration behind these elegant and contemporary designs draws on the captivating bubbles in a glass of champagne and we all deserve one of them!

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Cariad Links Lockdown has been a time of reflection, a time to assess the important people in our lives and what they mean to us. Our Cariad collection has proved to be a popular choice for gifting representing the sentiment of love and affection. Now is the time to adorn your pieces for that long-awaited date night.

loves Tree of Life Insignia Whether it’s a night out on the town with the girls catching up or a lunch date with your bestie is what you’ve got planned this summer, our Tree of Life Insignia collection is a statement piece to accompany your outfit. This collection combines our timeless Tree of Life filigree design with a modern twist.

Affinity Bracelets A birthday gift, a celebration gift or even just “I miss you” gift, our affinity bracelets have been a popular purchase. Stacked to create your own style, each one representing a memory, now is the time to meet up with friends and family to show them off. Perhaps your girlfriends or your female family were all gifted the same one, a link to the period of uncertainty that we all went through.

www.clogau.co.uk

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Celebrating Celebrating Celebrating the the the Celebrating the region’s region’s region’s brightest brightest brightest region’s brightest and and and best best best in inthe inthe the and best in the game game game game

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Promotion

Relaxed Design for

Work-to-Social

Style Sensibilities Introducing the new Max Performance chinos and slim fit denim shirt from T.M Lewin

I

t’s official. Loungewear has left the building. As we get set to leave the WFH hashtag and baggy jumper behind, our attention is turning to casual refinement. Understated combos that take us from co-working space or studio, to after work drinks. Finally.

And if your job doesn’t warrant a suit, T.M.Lewin, menswear styles purveyors, has S/ S2021 covered with its latest chino and shirt drop to upgrade your work-to-social wardrobe. First up is the Radcliffe chino - normalising casual workwear yet offering welcome departure from joggers.

The Radcliffe has been meticulously designed to bridge the gap between looking sharp and feeling relaxed. Carefully constructed using Max Performance technology, the cotton rich material not only looks good but works good. It’s anti-shrink and anti-fade, so you can wash it frequently with confidence, while maintaining the deep, rich colour and the perfect fit.

It’s also anti-pilling, so the hardwearing areas maintain the fine, smooth texture to the touch, and non-iron, so you can head out the door in a flash.

Cut to a slim fit, the Radcliffe gives a honed, neat look to emphasise your best bits. £59.95 Accompanying the Radcliffe chino for maximum style output is the Slim Fit Plain Denim Shirt ushering a new phase of versatile style staples.

Crafted from a soft indigo, this modern approach to a classic denim shirt allows the piece to be worn at work for a relaxed feel. The denim has been washed to a lighter blue that makes it versatile and sits perfectly with the new season colour palette.

The shirt has a cutaway collar, which is wider-spread for a modern aesthetic. It also has two-button adjustable cuffs that can easily be rolled up for afternoons in the sun in the beer garden or roof terrace.

It is cut to a slim fit shape for a form-flattering silhouette. Wear it open as a casual layering piece, or button it up for sleek style. Team with the Radcliffe chinos and crisp white trainers to nail the smart casual code this spring. £44.95 www.tmlewin.co.uk 25

Style | The CHESHIRE Magazine

T he M ulberr ulberry y M a de to L ast

M an anii fest festo o

To mark their 50th anniversary year, Mulberry have announced the launch of an ambitious commitment to transform the business to a regenerative and circular model, encompassing the entire supply chain, from field to wardrobe by 2030

O

ver the last 50 years, Mulberry has been at the forefront of designing and manufacturing leather goods in the UK, but in 2021 they are taking this moment to ask the question ‘Can leather ever be sustainable?’. To answer this, Mulberry are looking at every part of their supply chain to embed principles of regeneration and circularity at every stage.

Acknowledging the environmental issues associated with cattle farming, Mulberry believes the continuation of a long and successful association with leather is dependent on achieving full traceability from farm to finished product, allowing them to put in place a network of organic and environmentally conscious farms to supply the hides that create their leather. This network will provide the foundations of Mulberry’s commitment to a regenerative and circular supply chain by 2030.

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Mulberry has always been a brand built on community and locality, and since its inception have remained committed to making more than half of their products in their Somerset factories. Today those factories are carbon neutral and every person working in them is paid a real Living Wage. The company know they have to go much further to make transformational change, and that’s why they are asking the question, ‘Can you make a blue bag green?’. Later this year Mulberry will release their first locally made ‘farm to finished product’ bags using the world’s lowest carbon leather. This collection will represent the future of the business, establishing a model that can be replicated with a network of trusted partners

and underpins their commitment to reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2035.

Mulberry’s transformative approach to leather sourcing will be reflected in the way they innovate new solutions across their business, from integrating recycled nylon and regenerative organic cotton into our products to continuously assessing and reducing the environmental impact of their packaging and their physical store network.

In asking, ‘Can you teach an old bag new tricks?’, Mulberry highlight their commitment to extending the life of every product through repair, renewal, and repurposing. The Repairs Team at The Rookery, one of their Somerset factories, are masters of restoration, breathing new life into more than 10,000 bags every year, with leather and hardware archives going back over 35 years.

Through the Mulberry Exchange they match authenticated and beautifully restored classics with a new owner, and every one of their bags, be they fifty years or five months old, can find a second, third or even fourth home with another member of the Mulberry community. This platform was launched in store in 2020 and is now live digitally on mulberry.com, alongside a recently launched partnership with Vestiaire Collective, making resale a core pillar of Mulberry’s circularity strategy.

If the day comes that a Mulberry bag really has reached the end of the line, the company will still buy it back and using an innovative energy reclaim system, unique to their strategic partner Muirhead,

a member of the Scottish Leather Group, power the production of a new bag, ensuring that the line never ends, it just becomes a circle.

“At Mulberry we have already taken significant action to embed sustainability across our business, but today we offer our commitment to a programme of transformative change, embedding principles of regeneration and circularity across our entire supply chain. We are committed to creating a hyper-local, hyper-transparent ‘farm to finished product’ sourcing model and whilst we are at the beginning of this transition, I am immensely proud of my colleagues and the work done to launch the Made to Last Manifesto. We look forward to the challenges ahead.”

— Thierry Andretta, Mulberry CEO. www.mulberry.com

To achieve this commitment the Made to Last Manifesto focuses on six key actions for change: 1) Pioneer a hyper-local, hyper-transparent ‘farm to finished product’ supply chain model 2) Develop the world’s lowest carbon leather sourced from a network of environmentally conscious farms 3) Achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2035 4) Continue to extend the life of Mulberry products through repair and restoration 5) Buy back, resell or repurpose any Mulberry bag 6) Extend a commitment to being a real Living Wage employer by working with a network of suppliers to achieve the same

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Style | The CHESHIRE Magazine

e

Girl Power N ynne Kunde’s Scandinavian roots play a significant part in each of her designs. Yet for Spring Summer 2021 her signature lean minimalistic lines are complimented with the vibrant colours and details synonymous with London’s cosmopolitan energy, where NYNNE’s studio was previously located. These two much adored cities balance each other out with their distinctive styles and ambience, proving the perfect inspiration for Kunde.

Continuing on from previous seasons, the NYNNE Spring Summer 2021 collection revolves around female empowerment.

The collection is a celebration of the soft beauty of women and the power in gentle expression.

The colour palette encapsulates the feel of a Danish Summer, moving between the pulsating life in the city to slow weekends in the countryside. Sunflower yellow and azure blue colours are balanced with white, beige and black whilst the prints of the season take you to the seaside.

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Style

OPPOSITE PAGE: VALERIE - Jumpsuit, £565 £565 THIS PAGE: LISA- Dress, £777

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Style | The CHESHIRE Magazine

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Style

OPPOSITE PAGE: MOLLY - Top, £348; BACALL - Trousers, £390 THIS PAGE FROM LEFT: DIANA - Dress, £605 DALIA - Dress, £1210

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Style | The CHESHIRE Magazine

MAURA - Dress, £650

www.nynne.eu

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Visit us online www.thecheshiremagazine.co.uk @thecheshiremagazine

The Cheshire Magazine

@TheCheshireMag

Say hello to our new Champneys spa at Mottram Hall Gift cards and spa experiences available at

Champneys.com

Health, Beauty

Wellness

Bac ack k to Bea eau uty

Get summer ready with an appointment at DD Clinical who provide the ultimate 5* customer experience. The friendly team offer the most advanced, result driven technologies and treatments provided by highly skilled, experienced and respected medically trained doctors, dermatologists and clinicians. Set in the heart of Chester, this state-of-the-art clinic specialises in non-surgical and non-invasive aesthetic treatments, that will get you back to looking and feeling your best.

Call for your free consultation 01244 723300, www.ddclinical.com

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LIFT YOUR SMILE The SmileTime Teeth Whitening Kit has been designed to lift your smile up to 8 shades whiter in just 15 minutes (over 6 days) and is perfect for the guy on the go. Formulated with an advanced active whitening ingredient called PAP that whitens the surface and deep inside the tooth - brightening your teeth without any pain or sensitivity. The kit also includes an LED light which acts as a catalyst to speed up the whitening process. Unlike a lot of tooth whitening gels on the market, it is completely hydrogen peroxide-free – making it kinder and safer for your teeth and gums. www.smiletimeteeth.com, £39.99

Health &

Beauty Introducing L'abu Skin L'abu Collagen Boosting Moisturiser - Infuse the skin with moisture from Shea butter and carrier oils providing wonderful hydration and nourishment. The many layers of ingredients target and encourage new skin cells, which helps with ageing of the skin.

• L'abu Pore Refining Scrub - With its creamy base and finely milled pumice, it gently removes dead cells and daily grime to reveal fresh, glowing skin. Combined with complex oils, it helps to retain moisture, leaving the skin hydrated and soft.

• L'abu Mineral Clay Mask - infused with white tea and mint, a detoxifying clay mask draws out impurities. www.labuskin.com

TRIED AND TESTED

P M D P E R S O NA L MICRODERM ELITE PRO

•

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I just love the PMD Personal Microderm Elite Pro. It’s an at-home anti-ageing exfoliation device, which buffs away dead skin cells and increases collagen production. I’ve found it really helps to reduce enlarged pores, eliminate in-grown hairs and smooth rough skin. It also stimulates skin regeneration to leave my complexion looking rejuvenated. It’s the ideal at-home microdermabrasion device that provides the same brilliant results as professional, spa and salon treatments and enables you to customise your treatment to your own skin’s unique needs.

RRP £269, available in Harrods

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Health & Beauty

SLOW SIGNS OF AGEING Slow Ageing Essentials are powered by natural botanicals and use only the purest steam-distilled essential oils in their formula. They don’t believe in ‘anti-ageing’ and instead have developed products that work with skin’s natural defences to slow the signs of ageing.

Slow Ageing Essential Face Essence, £56 This luxurious facial oil is an antioxidant powerhouse, protecting your skin from collagendegrading free radicals and enhancing all your other skincare.

loves

Rubis Classic Slant Tweezers

Rubis made their name crafting precision tweezers exclusively for the Swiss watch industry, where they are used to make watches by Patek Philippe, Cartier and Rolex where only the most precise tweezers of highest quality can be used.

25 years ago they branched out into beauty tools using the same factories and skilled craftsmen and as a result they can't be matched for quality. www.cultbeauty.co.uk, £21.50

Slow Ageing Essential Face Exfoliating Polish, £51 A powerhouse face and body skin smoother for visibly improved texture, radiance and vitality.

Dramatically improve skin texture with this exfoliating, plant butter-infused buffer for the face and body.

Slow Ageing Essential Moisturiser, £45 This softening and barrier-restoring day cream leaves skin smooth, hydrated and resilient to environmental aggressors. Firming seaweed polyphenols, plumping oceanic biopolymers and free radical-fighting antioxidants neutralise damage from pollution, UV and stress for a healthy glow. www.slowagening.co.uk

FATHERS DAY SET The full Nereus London set is the perfect gift for this Father’s Day. Crafted from all-natural ingredients, essential oils and high-performing formulations that are designed to nourish, hydrate and strengthen skin and hair. Give your dad the gift of a spa-quality experience in the comfort of his own home.

RRP £60, www.nereus.uk

Age Fighting Cleanser A luxurious cleanser which removes make up, dirt and impurities while hydrating and softening a dry skin, repairing complexion while also nourishing to combat dryness. The DermaQuest Stem Cell 3D Facial Cleanser is packed with highly restorative plant stem cells and the latest age fighting technology. The cleanser hydrates parched skin and encourages firmer, smoother skin, making this the ultimate age fighting cleanser. www.dermaquestinc.co.uk, £42

SUPERIOR SMILE This innovative teeth whitening pen instantly brightens teeth, working on tough stains to reveal a whiter smile over time. The 100% vegan formula has a vanilla mint flavour for lasting freshness, whilst MOON’s Elixir III uses a blend of lavender oil, strawberry fruit extract, and honeysuckle extract to brighten the teeth. www.beautybay.com, £20 37

Wellness | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Get Summer Body Ready Feel and look good this summer with health and well-being tech from Beurer

S

Treat your Mind and Body with the Beurer Mg280 Yoga and Stretch Mat With Air Compression

alon and gym restrictions may have lifted but you might not feel quite ready to take the plunge into busy public places. Health and well-being specialist, Beurer, has put together a list of their top 3 tech to help you achieve a summer-ready look.

Achieve Solid Abs with the Beurer Em22 Muscle Toner If you’d rather avoid the gym for a little while, or simply want a more convenient and effective way to tone muscle, then the EM22 muscle toner with 15 levels of intensity is the solution. This hi-tech, electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) device, which can increase the tone and definition of abdominals, legs and arms, actually achieves better results than the gym as it allows access to the additional 70% of muscle fibres that voluntary contraction neglects. As well as sculpting, the EM22 can also be used for muscle rehabilitation to prevent muscular atrophy. So, if you have been pushing yourself hard during lockdown or are partial to running marathons, you can use this highly effective EMS to increase blood flow and to relax your muscles.

The electrode pads are made from soft flexible silicone and completely comfortable against the skin. www.stressnomore.co.uk, RRP £54.99

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Say Goodbye to Lumps and Bumps with the Beurer Cm100 Cellulite Releazer

Get noticeably smoother, firmer and toned curves with the world's first clinically tested cellulite massager.

Scientifically proven to reduce cellulite with visible results after just 12 weeks of use, the Cellulite ReleaZer provides vibration massage to break down fat cells for deep tissue toning. There are 4 varying treatment surfaces, 3 intensity levels and 2 massage programmes.

Non-slip handles ensure you can massage to break down cellulite easily and precisely where it counts, especially useful as the CM100 is waterproof for use in the shower. A full charge of the Li-Ion battery provides 10 hours of cellulite battling. www.win-health.com, RRP £89.99

Make sure you feel as good as you look this summer. You don’t even need to find a yoga class as this electric yoga and stretch mat is your stand-in yoga instructor. Whether you're new to yoga and want to be sure you're doing it right, or a pro who wants to push themselves to their full potential, now you can train in the comfort of your own home or garden. The MG280 yoga and stretching mat uses 7 inflating air chambers to guide your body into the perfect stretch positions to ease tension and encourage flexibility. There are 4 intensive pre-set stretching programmes and 3 intensity levels, all selectable using the easy-to-use control. Just lie back and let the mat do the work. For deeper relaxation you can enjoy a vibration massage function and even a heat function to warm and loosen any tight muscles you have. Bliss! www.amazon.co.uk, RRP £249.99

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WHY DERMASSURE? Medical professionals developed DermAssure Aesthetics and our treatments are performed by very senior critical care nurses working within the NHS. They are specially trained in aesthetics with over 10 years’ experience.

We offer free consultations and specialise in non-surgical facial rejuvenation by way of dermal fillers and wrinkle smoothing injections, including medical grade facials and injectable moisturiser PROFHILO® (high concentrate hyaluronic acid). We also offer injectable vitamin B12, injections for unsightly underarm sweating and IV vitamin drips.

In addition to our aesthetics services, we also offer via our ‘HealthAssure’ diagnostic screening service, health screening including full blood biochemistry analysis and diagnostic imaging.

We offer a soft tissue ‘lumps and bumps’ clinic for same day results giving early diagnosis and peace of mind for dermal lumps, cysts or worrisome swellings.

Diet and healthy living Gurus who are fully qualified personal trainers.

Based in the 5-star luxury Lowry Hotel

50 Dearmans Place, Chapel Wharf, Salford, Manchester, M3 5LH

info@dermassure.net 07919583342 www.dermassure.net

ShrewsburySchool School Shrewsbury

Visit Shrewsbury Shrewsbury The Independent Independent School of of the School the Year Year

Boarding and Boarding and Day Day School School for Girls Girls and and Boys for Boys aged aged 13-18 13-18

admissions@shrewsbury.org.uk admissions@shrewsbury.org.uk 01743 280 552 | shrewsbury.org.uk 01743 280 552 | shrewsbury.org.uk

Start your your journey Start journey now now at: at:

shrewsbury.org.uk/open-days shrewsbury.org.uk/open-days HIGHLY COMMENDED BoardingCOMMENDED School of the Year HIGHLY Boarding School of the Year SHORTLISTED Creativity Award SHORTLISTED

Creativity Award

WINNER Independent WINNER School of the Year Independent School of the Year WINNER Community WINNER Outreach Award

Community Outreach Award

Family

Roars oarso ome Fam amiily Fun This summer, the team behind the award-winning

light and lantern festival Lightopia presents Dino Kingdom in Manchester.

An epic outdoor, prehistoric exploration, featuring more than 100 life-like moving and roaring dinosaurs and creatures to uncover, plus state-of-theart 3D and AR technology bringing dinosaurs ‘back to life’ with unforgettable interactive experiences and enjoy a thrilling fairground rides for all the family.

From 23rd July - 8th August 2021 at Wythenshawe Park

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Family news WORDS: CRAIG HOUGH

Time For A Snüz Iconic sleep brand Snüz has unveiled its next generation of mattresses in their SnüzSurface collection. The brand has worked its magic yet again, to promise parents (and little ones) unrivalled support when it comes to getting the allimportant ZZZ’s, offering the very latest technology to provide tailored support for each stage of a child’s development, from birth to 13yrs. What ties this innovative range of mattresses together is the unique removable cover. It features a 3D breathable surface with a waterproof membrane and is washable at 40°c.

Ideal for any night time nappy leaks in the early days, and perfect during the potty-training years!

RRP from £44.95 - £249.95, www.snuz.co.uk 42

IT’S A SPRING THING We love the new Polarn O. Pyret’s SS21 collection. The already popular range is flourishing with a variety of gorgeous springtime prints, including farmyard animals, aeroplanes and subtle hints of leopard print, sure to bring out your little one’s wild side!

The brands 100% GOTS Organic baby range (0-1), ensures every garment is kind to baby’s delicate skin, as well as being durable and of course being super comfortable.

Whilst the preschool range for ages 1-6 continues on the farm theme with the familiar faces from the yard, and a plethora of mix and match items. www.polarnopyret.co.uk

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Family

Discover The Family’s Wild Side

FUN IN THE OUTDOOR KITCHEN The Plum Discovery Mud Pie Kitchen is a great way for your child to get stuck in at playtime. The Discovery range combines hands-on play and learning. Children will discover their environment as they mash, mush, mix and mould mud pies. The Mud Kitchen has shelves to store all of their natural finds and comes with holders for potted shrubs and a built-in planter for green fingers. Children can cook their favourite dish on wooden hobs with metal kitchen pots and pans. The brushed steel kitchen sink is ideal for mixing, mashing, building, and cleaning up. The Mud Pie Kitchen has been created to allow children to explore the natural world, enhancing playtime with an educational twist.

It provides hours of fun in all weather. £269.99, www.plumplay.co.uk

The RSPB encourages families to get closer to Cheshire’s nature this month by taking part in their summer Wild Challenge Activities. By completing a range of challenges families can earn free Wild Challenge Awards and help give nature a home along the way, whilst having fun outdoors. Our gardens, window-boxes, parks, and ponds, are teeming with wildlife. They are alive with hundreds of weird and wonderful creepy crawlies, bugs and beasties, secretive moths, showy butterflies, and underwater critters. Enjoy a big wild summer together this year, whether that be from your garden, local greenspace or an RSPB reserve. www.rspb.org.uk/reserves

CHESHIRE

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Make Babywearing a Breeze Infantino have release a new version of its bestselling Flip carrier ahead of the warmer months! The Flip 4-in-1 Light & Airy Convertible Carrier will elevate your daily strolls, whether that be to the farmers market or the park. However, it’s also super handy around the house if you need an extra pair of hands – or just want to keep bubba close! Thanks to its unique breathmesh design, this carrier allows extra airflow, making it a comfortable ride for baby, no matter what the weather!

RRP £39.99, www.amazon.co.uk

This May a true icon (in the parenting world!) will celebrate 60 years! With a heritage spanning 6 decades, Sophie la girafe has become a truly global icon trusted by millions of parents to sooth gums and bring joy to little ones from day one! With a long line of celebrity fans and hints of Royal connections, Sophie has earned her place in the hall of fame and undoubtedly become the must have fashion accessory for every new parent and bouncing bubba! www.sophielagirafe.co.uk

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Family | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Pets’ Corner Our guide to the top positive pet purchases for your four legged friends leading into the summer

Scruffs® Knightsbridge Collection Scruffs® new Knightsbridge Collection provides an opulent environment for your pet to relax. Featuring an antique effect, eco-leather fabric with a deep-filled 100% polyester centre to ensure your pet remains as comfortable as can be.

The matching outer stitching achieves a coherent finish and detailing across each bed. This collection is available in three styles; Mattresses, Cat Igloos & Blankets. www.petslovescruffs.com

Beautiful Joe’s Ethical Dog Treats Beautiful Joe’s was founded in 2012, taking inspiration from the American ‘one for one’ movement. For every packet of treats sold, Beautiful Joe’s donates the same volume to a rescue centre. To date Beautiful Joe’s given away over £400,000 of treats to over 300 rescue centres.

The Beautiful Joe’s treats are made from 100% British air dried, pasture fed, ox liver. They are completely natural and are free from preservatives. www.beautifuljoes.com

Playful Pup Skin, Nose and Paw Balm with Sun Protection

Playful Pup Balm protects, soothes and moisturises.

It is 100% vegan, unscented, fast-absorbing, natural and will be your puppy’s perfect companion to combat the dangers of summer heat and winter chills. Botanical ingredients work together to effectively moisturise and heal soft pads, noses and skin, as well as offer sun protection. www.dogslovehownd.com

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For All Dog Ki nd Super Soothi ng Dog Shampoo Due to a high pollen count and more insects, summertime can mean ‘itching’ for many dogs, is fast-acting to help soothe and hydrate itchy skin and coats, thanks to gentle ingredients such as lavender and patchouli. www.charleychau.com

DOG WALKING & SITTING

DOG WALKING, SITTING & PET FEEDING IN THE CHESTER AREA FULLY INSURED PET SITTING AVAILABLE IN ALL AREAS ACROSS CHESHIRE & GREATER MANCHESTER

Dog Sitting

Pet Feeding

Contact Scarlett @for_paws_chester

t:

Pet Pop Ins

07592935351 forpawschester

Feature | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Celebrate

Good Times

As restrictions on social gatherings begin to ease, we ask industry experts to share a special event they were proud to work on

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel

KATE PARK EVENTS Kate Park, Founder “We love organising themed parties at Kate Park Events, so when we were contacted by a repeat client asking if we could create a ski theme party in their back garden, the answer was of course YES! The party was to celebrate our clients 60th birthday and to create a cosy event with a relaxed atmosphere where their family and friends could all be together. With it being in the winter (and in the UK), we decided that everything should be contained within the marquee in their garden so once the guests arrived, they wouldn’t need to step out into the cold until the very end of the party.

We installed traditional wooden chalets inside the marquee where the food was served from, ranging from pizzas, crepes and ice cream. In addition, we also served canapes and bowl food that were circulated around the guests throughout the night, making sure no guest left hungry. The bar staff wore salopettes and ski goggles as headbands, so it was in keeping with the fun ambience and theme. To keep things cosy we positioned cream fur throws on the backs of the chairs, where guests could sit and eat their food in comfort. Chesterfield sofas were available too for the guests who wanted to rest their feet and there was candlelight and twinkly lights at every turn.

To create the La Folie Douche “high-altitude” party vibe we had a live band from London who kept the dance floor full and were engaging and interactive with guests until the early hours.” www.kateparkevents.co.uk 47

SPRINGBANK FLOWERS Anna-Liisa Evans, Creative Director “After the last 12 months of separation and anxiety, it is perhaps only fitting that we remind ourselves of the magic of celebration with friends and family, that we can all enjoy once more. Today no one needs an excuse for a party!

This reminds me of a birthday celebration we dressed on behalf of the amazing Brown Bear Events team, they tasked us to create a fairy-tale inspired party for an extraordinary and interactive experience based upon the story of Alice in Wonderland.

Where many may have been tempted to go down the surreal slightly trippy primary coloured approach, this client preferred a more sophisticated approach to the theme using sepia tones, beautiful flowers and textures evocative of opening an old, illustrated book.

A sense of drama was achieved by taking guests on a journey through the marque and through the theme. Starting by going down the Rabbit’s Hole, guests had to brave a misty overgrown burrow entrance and maze-like tunnel to reach the party, and finally finding themselves in the adventurous world of ‘Wonderland’! Here, the

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scale of each area and the raised drinks reception area offered a fabulous perspective over the event.

Using lots of gorgeous natural material combining textures, colours and props to deliver an outstanding event. The devil really was in the detail, with close attention paid to every area, from the carrots and top hats combined in the bar extravaganza to the fabulous stained-glass effect of the preserved chestnut and beech foliage that the trees were created with.

It was a sensory explosion, that continued to engage even as guests were seated at their table, with so many clever references to the book woven into the décor. The gorgeous sepia toned palette and clever lighting enveloped guests in a golden era of nostalgia.

Props were used cleverly to continue the narrative without being too tacky or obtrusive, with giant golden birdcages suspended down over some tables, and huge hand constructed trees cleverly dressed with top hats and playing cards on others. A fabulous tea party was created on the remaining tables, complete with flamingos, candelabras and croquet. All subtle references to the theme artfully arranged into a fabulous event.

The attention to detail even extended to the bathrooms, where guests had to undertake a maze to reach them and giant mirrors depicting the Queen of Hearts for ladies, and the Mad Hatter for the gents. For one night, guests were transported into a wistful, sentimental childhood memory.” www.springbankflowers.co.uk

CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel TheThe CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

ODD FELLOWS ON THE PARK

IMAGES BY NEILPARRYPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

Lauren Chatterton, General Manager “The event was a celebratory Gala Dinner held for Essential Detail who represent some of the most glamorous Caribbean hotels. What made it so special? They took the hotel on an exclusive use basis so they could use it essentially as a private home with amazing chefs and service. Guests arrived at lunchtime and the celebrations continued throughout the day. As it was exclusive use, they could move locations in between the Parlor Rooms where we hold events, our terrace overlooking Bruntwood Park’s gorgeous lawns, The Stud Bar and into the atmospheric Galloping Major restaurant where the Hall’s original ballroom stands. Some guests flew in from across the Caribbean, bringing a warmth of welcome to a leafy park in Manchester. Goodie bags were Caribbean themed - of which rum was a main component. A magician entertained and the event was totally joyous - with guests loving the privacy of their own hotel. Our chefs prepared bespoke menus of Stone Bass with apples and radish, locally sourced Chicken and seasonal artichoke and a dark chocolate dessert to showcase the local Cheshire ingredients to those travelling from afar.” www.oddfellowsonthepark.com 49

Food Drink Raise a Glass

Rosé champagnes are among the

world’s great food wines, and when it comes to alfresco dining enjoy Henriot Rosé with a roast chicken salad or with smoked salmon, crème fraiche and caviar. This is a great choice for any occasion, and moreover, it captures summer in a glass. Sensual and elegant, with a delicate pale copper pink colour, Henriot Rosé has the perfume of summer berries and all the deliciousness of home-grown strawberries and fresh raspberries, an intense, elegant structure and a clean effervescent mousse and a long finish.

Henriot Rosé, RRP £55, www.liquoricewine.co.uk

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CHESTER BOUNCES BACK The city is set to welcome two new eateries over the coming months

Artezzan Restaurant and Bar

ARTEZZAN RESTAURANT AND BAR

Taking a prime site on Pepper Street in the city centre and spread over 2 floors the brand-new Mediterranean inspired concept is set to open in June. Artezzan will bring a modern, fresh, feel-good dining experience that will celebrate authentic Mediterranean flavours, service and atmosphere.

The menu combines classic dishes from Italy, Spain, France and Greece, and includes tasty Spanish Pinchos, homemade Artezzan pizzas and pastas, finest quality grilled meats and seafood and a wide selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes. www.artezzan.com

The Forge

THE FORGE

Food &

This month sees chef and restaurateur Mike Robinson bring his enthusiasm for British food and drink to Chester, with the opening of a new 70-seater restaurant, cocktail bar and private dining room, The Forge. The venue continues Robinson’s passion for British food, using only British ingredients, with an emphasis on wild produce and sustainability. The open kitchen cooks over wood and charcoal, using amazing wild and locally reared meat, that is all aged on the premises. This is latest collaboration with Castlebridge Hospitality, and The Forge will be set alongside the Hotel Indigo Chester, on Grosvenor Park Road. www.theforgechester.com

Drink news WORDS: CRAIG HOUGH

Fortnum’s Take on a Moder n Classic Fortnum & Mason have just launched the first in their new bottled cocktail range the ‘Expresso Daiquiri’, brewed, blended and bottled exclusively for Fortnum’s just three miles from their Piccadilly home. Unlike other bottled cocktails, Fortnum’s are blended, aged and diluted to the perfect serving strength before being packaged, allowing service of superior cocktails, at home and picnic convenience, and with minimal fuss, mess or preparation. www.fortnumandmason.com

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New Star In The Store Cupboard

Following great success in Spain and the US, Yondu, the South Korean seasoning sauce made from umami rich vegetables has arrived in the UK. The sauce is made from organic, protein-rich soybeans blended with a simmered eight vegetable broth, which are then fermented for three months to allow the rich umami flavour to develop. Adding just a few teaspoons of Yondu to broths, soups, stir-fries and any other everyday meal, creates a quick and easy boost of flavour and balance to dishes. £4.00 for a 125ml bottle and £6.88 for 275ml www.amazon.co.uk

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Food & Drink

FATHER’S DAY BUNDLE

From The ‘Seven Kingdoms to The ‘Golden Triangle’ An award-winning food producer from Cheshire is set to unveil a brand-new product range – handcrafted from premium and exotic meats. Weston residents Sheryl and Ryan Walker have been making and selling biltong – a form of South African dried, cured meat – for nearly five years. The Weston Biltong Company saw demand soar after its biltong was featured on the Emmy award-winning fantasy drama Game of Thrones. “Global visibility in the ‘Seven Kingdoms’ was exciting! said Sheryl, 46. “Our vision with this new venture is to create a line of luxury biltong snacks that are as welcome in high-end bars as they are in the finest picnic hampers. From beef sirloin and ostrich to kangaroo and venison, we look forward to bringing new, exotic tastes to market.” www.thecheshirebiltongcompany.co.uk

Fam i l i a To r re s P u rg ato r i 2 0 1 7 A blend of Garnacha, Carinena and Syrah, aged in French oak (40% new) for up to 18 months resulting in a deep, dark red of great depth and intensity. It’s a powerful wine that would be a match made in heaven with traditional oven roasted, grilled or barbecued meats or a simple platter of flavoursome cheese and cold cuts, especially Ibérico ham.

Winemaker tasting notes: Extraordinary dark cherry red colour with great depth. Intense floral (violet) and fruit (cassis) aroma with exquisite Mediterranean garrigue (thyme) coming through, joined by notes of smoke and spices (cocoa).

Familia Torres Purgatori RRP £20-£30, www.Vinissimus.co.uk

The new Tracklements Father’s Day Bundle is a thoughtful way to show your Dad just how much you love and appreciate him and, at the same time, let him know that you’re looking forward to his next family BBQ. The boxed Bundle includes; British Beer Mustard, Particularly British Piccalilli, Spitfire Chilli Mustard, Perfect Ploughman’s Pickle and Fresh Chilli Jam. www.tracklements.co.uk

New Lunch Menu at Ducie Street Warehouse • Ndjua ,salami picante, honey, burrata stracciatella Sourdough Pinza • Blistered Padron Peppers, lemon, smoked sea salt • Baba Ganoush, grilled Khobez, pomegranate • Chilli, sesame & Peanut Crispy Chicken, Gochujang, chilli buttermilk • Five spiced ox cheek & sweet potato croquettes • Herdwick lamb kofta’s, Beetroot & crumbled feta, pickled cucumber www.duciestreet.com

loves

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MEET THE CHEF:

Antonio Cicero

Stuffed Spatola is on the menu this month courtesy of the couple behind seafood restaurant, Il Consiglio di Sicilia, set in the stunning Donnalucata in Sicily

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ospitality and happiness are at the soul of the seafood restaurant Il Consiglio di Sicilia, a corner of paradise in Donnalucata, Sicily. Top-quality ingredients are presented on the plate straightforwardly: a style that inherently speaks of the territory, beyond the trends of the moment. And at the helm of it, there is a caring and sparkling couple.

In the kitchen, Chef Antonio Cicero creates refined dishes without pretension, but with great love for details. The charming Roberta Corradin welcomes everyone with a smile and offers knowledgeable guidance to the guests. Together with her team - made up only of women - they move between kitchen, dining room and gazebo, threading seamlessly between the cosseted interior and the grand outdoor terrace.

The building was once the home of Chef Antonio Cicero’s grandmother and is filled with happy nostalgia for him. Opened in 2008, Il Consiglio di Sicilia has provided the perfect platform to showcase Antonio’s philosophy of elegant simplicity. His approach to cooking, coupled with a strong focus on the abundant seafood provided by its island location in the southern Mediterranean, ensured the restaurant quickly became a local favourite.

The menus showcase Antonio’s interpretation of traditional Sicilian recipes and change depending on the day’s catch and market availability of the island’s produce. Sharing suppliers and day boats with many of the region’s fine dining restaurants, ingredients are always the finest available. Dishes like octopus salad, spaghetti with clams and Sicilian black truffle from Palazzolo Acreide or yellow tail stewed with potatoes and capers, or

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caramelised with ginger and soy sauce have become seasonal favourites. Sicilian cannoli - named amongst the ten best on the island; awarded an entire page in The Wall Street Journal in 2017 and acclaimed at the Taormina Gourmet Congress in 2019, are rarely permitted to be off-menu. Wine too is solely Sicilian and mostly from small producers. The list only includes wineries and vintages about whom they feel most passionate.

Chef Antonio Cicero began working in a local agriturismo on weekends. After deciding to train as a chef, he joined forces with some student friends and opened a small restaurant in the beachside village of Scoglitti, before moving onto a second in the hill town of Ragusa. Eventually, his desire to own his restaurant became a reality, when the opportunity arose to convert the building that was once his grandmother’s house in Donnalucata.

As a child, Roberta Corradin was inspired by a mother who was such a brilliant cook, that Roberta believed life was one endless dinner party. She began her career working with some of Italy’s most famous comics, followed by five years writing on pseudopsychology for various women’s newspapers. Her first book published in 1995 - “Ho fatto un pan pepato...ricette di cucina emotiva” - quickly drew the attention of the food editors of mainstream broadsheets and culinary guides. In 2010, she rented a quiet space to write in southern Sicily near Donnalucata and while there, was commissioned to review Il Consiglio di Sicilia.

That first evening she met Chef Antonio Cicero. For the rest of the summer and after a full day working, she would have dinner there every evening. One night, Antonio invited her for a ride on his latest motorbike. She accepted and a year later, the couple were married. Over the past decade, her partnership with Antonio has revolutionised Il Consiglio di Sicilia. Roberta may have stopped travelling, but is delighted now to welcome the world to her. www.ilconsigliodisicilia.com

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Food & Drink

Stuffed Spatola The scabbardfish has a strong meat, and in this recipe, combined with aubergines, basil, cheese, it tells a story of flavours almost more focused on the land than on the sea.

In the past, in Sampieri and Donnalucata - the seaside villages of Scicli - it was considered as a humble fish, and fishermen often threw it back into the sea because it was not worth selling. In other regions of Southern Italy it is known as “flag fish” (pesce bandiera), due to the way it sways underwater like a flag in the wind.

INGREDIENTS SERVES 4 PEOPLE: 4 Spatola/scabbardfish fillets 1 Small aubergine 8 Basil leaves

80g of semi-seasoned Ragusano cheese cut into sticks

8 Tablespoons of tomato sauce Salt

Pepper

METHOD Grill the thinly sliced ​​aubergine with a small amount of oil. And keep it aside for the moment. Place the fillets on the kitchen surface with the skin facing down. Season with salt and pepper. Then, cover each fillet with a couple of tablespoons of tomato sauce, the grilled aubergine slices, the basil leaves and the semi-seasoned ragusano. Roll the fillets on themselves, keeping them tight. Block them with a strip of baking paper, bake them in the oven for about 20 minutes at 180 degrees.

Serve with roasted potatoes and chard.

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@LITTLEWREN.PHOTOGRAPHY

Travel | The CHESHIRE Magazine

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature

Muddy Boots

Sleepovers The Cheshire Magazine talks to Jo Ford and Karen Green who joined forces with Lauren Marie Nolan during lockdown to create a unique experience for adults and children to enjoy at home

Jo Ford - Muddy Boots Jo, tell us about Muddy Boots – who came up with the concept originally?

Muddy Boots Sleepovers creates beautiful, luxury themed parties for both children and adults across the country. Founded in 2018, Muddy Boots CEO CJ Hadlow came up with the idea whilst visiting New Zealand over one Christmas period. A friend of hers had organised a professional sleepover party with a local company, which enticed CJ to bring the idea back to the UK and start her own business.

How did Muddy Boots arrive in Cheshire and how did you get involved?

As a mum of four children, I know how special parties are, and the importance of creating memorable moments together. I followed Muddy Boots Sleepovers on social media and loved what they did, so when I saw that CJ was expanding the business into the Cheshire area, I knew we would be the perfect fit. With ten years’ experience in children’s events and planning, it didn’t take long for CJ and I to join forces, and before we knew it Muddy Boots was rapidly expanding within Cheshire.

“As a mum of four children, I know how special parties are, and the importance of creating memorable moments together”

Your packages really do offer the wow factor – and you go the extra mile offering bespoke invitations and gifts. If parents are looking to treat their little ones on their next celebration what can they expect from Muddy Boots in Cheshire?

Throughout lockdown, we have been offering a wonderful DIY drop off service. And now, with the soaring popularity of ‘At Home’ activities due to national lockdown, we have seen a higher demand for these ‘quintessentially British’ setups. Now, having worked for Muddy Boots for a little over a year, We offer a wide array of exciting party packages with everything from indoor teepees, pop up cinema and luxe dining to ‘at home’ spa treatments, personalised pyjamas and party bags!

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Feature | The CHESHIRE Magazine

What kind of feedback have you had from your Cheshire clients?

Our clients in the Cheshire area love a hassle free, high quality service when planning their events. The planning starts with the easy to follow online booking system, which gives busy parents the flexibility to plan and customise their event, at any time of day or night. Most of our clients cannot resist adding extra special touches to their child’s parties, such as the personalised pyjamas, party bags, and balloon garlands.

During lockdown all of your businesses were obviously affected. But you switched a negative into a positive and joined forces to work closely on a project. What was the catalyst for you all to work together?

Before lockdown I was looking at working with other local Cheshire businesses to create the perfect party. I saw Karen’s inspiring business ‘The Little Green Platter Company’ and was amazed by her colourful and imaginative food creations. They are the focal point for a party and are really eye catching. After speaking to Karen I knew it would be great to work together on a photo shoot. Karen introduced me to Lauren who owns ‘Little Wren Photography’. Lauren’s work is also amazing and really captures the spirit of the event, as you will see

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from her imagery taken on the shoot, we decided it would be a lovely idea to work together to create a “stay home, stay safe” party set up.

Tell us about the project- what did you do?

I did two set ups, a ‘Luxe Dining’ table with a beautiful balloon garland in the background, followed by the indoor teepee in the theme ‘I Believe in Unicorns’. Karen created the amazing adult platters for the ‘Luxe Dining’, followed by the unicorn themed platter to go with the indoor tents. Lauren was behind the camera photographing the whole set up with the help of her gorgeous little girl, Indie. She was the perfect model!

How was the experience working together?

It was such a lovely day working together. We have worked for some of the same clients since the shoot, and we will definitely be working together in the future. I can’t wait. www.muddyboots-sleepovers.com

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

Karen Green - The Little Green Platter Company Karen, your business offers delicious bespoke tailor-made platters across the north west. Tell us the story of setting up the business and how it has grown?

I started the business back in 2016 when ‘grazing’ wasn’t the trend that it has now become. I first discovered grazing in Australia, where I once lived and fell in love with that style of eating instantly. I’ve always loved to make creative beautiful platters that were perfect for nibbling whilst enjoying cocktails with friends. I was a manager for a large retail company when I started the business and as it grew, I took the leap and left my job to become a full time caterer, which was extremely daunting having three children, but I have never looked back.

Who comes up with the extensive menu?

Our menu changes all the time with the seasonal produce that is available. Sourcing the best quality produce for my clients is paramount. We use local farms and farmshops for our fresh produce and the same goes for our cheeses from Dewlay, Cheesemakers in Garstang. We also use many other cheese providers from all over the UK as well as imported cheeses. Our super popular breakfast/ brunch graze tables and our large party boards are the most popular with clients.

You have had several famous faces as clients through the years…

To get things off the ground I launched our Grazing Boxes and things just really took off in a big way from there. Soon after the business became hugely popular and reached some high profile clientele. We have catered from Rock ‘n’ Roll royalty, Duff McKagan from Guns n Roses (who loves a Truffle Brie!) to stars of reality TV including Charlotte Crosby and Seema Malhotra.

What is your favourite kind of event to cater for?

We cater for all types of events but this year I’m so excited to be back catering for weddings and large events. These allow me to go all out with the displays.

Seeing a huge showstopper of a table, full of bespoke platters adorned with fresh foliage and flowers makes me so happy, especially when I see the client and their guests faces when they see it in all its glory!

We also cater for children’s parties and for these are where our real creativity and artistry comes out… we have even created The Wizard of Oz- The Emerald City made from cucumbers complete with a Yellow Brick road made from cheese! Children’s themed parties are so much fun…you won’t get just platters of boring sandwiches and crisps from us, you get an actual world for the children to explore and try new things. We get so much great feedback from parents in shock that their children are actually eating fruits and vegetables.

Later this year we are expanding and opening a shop. It will be the hub for our catering but also, I finally get to open a beautiful delicatessen filled to the brim with the most delicious cheeses, charcuterie, olives and much more! www.thelittlegreenplattercompany.com

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Feature | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Lauren Marie Nolan Little Wren Photography Lauren, what are you favorite type of jobs that keeps the passion for your business going?

My passion for photography came from having my own family. I wanted to capture every single precious moment of my children growing up, so that they will have all of these wonderful memories to look back on when they are grown. I adore meeting and capturing new families and I am incredibly lucky that so many of my clients return time after time to capture their special milestones and magical moments. I become a tiny part of my ‘Little Wren’ families most precious memories and it’s amazing how attached you become to your clients when you get to experience their most treasured moments. I love capturing tiny new-born babies and seeing the connection between new parents and their precious new arrival, but I also love capturing cheeky toddlers and beautiful couples.

The limits are endless to what you can capture, and the smallest of moments can be the most magical.

You often shoot children and animals, what is the secret to getting them behaved and getting the perfect shot?

There isn’t any big secret to getting the perfect shot, it’s just having a flare for seeing moments as they happen. When it comes to capturing kids and animals, I

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would always say keep calm and have fun. Children and animals are amazing, and I absolutely love working with them, but there are no rules, every child is different, and we all know toddlers and animals have a mind of their own.

Children are happiest when they are relaxed, so I always aim to have lots of fun and get lots of gorgeous smiles. I prefer candid images so nothing too positioned or posed which works perfectly with children and animals. I often photograph outdoors which children love as its fun and exciting with lots to explore.

Happiness, fun and high energy are key to creating the perfect images. Each child has their own magic and its capturing them naturally that creates the most stunning shots. I love to capture children’s quirks and individuality. It’s capturing a true representation of them, to look back on in many year’s time that is so important to me.

Instagram @littlewren.photography

@LITTLEWREN.PHOTOGRAPHY

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

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Celebrate at Home

Get fresh meals delivered direct to your door for the perfect party at home

Bistrot At Home Meal Boxes Independent French restaurant group Bistrot Pierre – which has restaurants in Altrincham and across the north west has put together the ‘Bistrot At Home Meal Boxes’ so you can enjoy a taste of Bistrot wherever you are in the UK. Now, you can have Bistrot as part of your special celebrations, whether that’s in one of their restaurants or from the comfort of your own home. Their food is inspired by their travels around France and beyond and their boxes combine their most popular and signature dishes, perfected over 26 years.

Each Bistrot at Home box has been carefully crafted by Executive Chef, Adam Townsley, and is freshly prepared Perfect for by their talented team of chefs each week so you can French Inspired enjoy a true taste of Bistrot delivered straight to your Treat door. Everything you know and love about our Bistrot food is included in our boxes, from the garnish on top of the French onion soup to their much-loved French baguette and butter. Bon appétit. www.bistrotathome.co.uk

Beetbox Cheshire born Michael Jabelli and founder of Vertigo restaurant group in Manchester city centre, has set up a new business, Beetbox, which is delivering vegan recipe kits direct to people’s homes. The idea was born out of the desire to help his Vertigo patrons cook healthy, vegan meals at home while the restaurants were shut during lockdown.

Shaking up the vegan offering in the recipe meal market, Beetbox customers are able to choose from a wide range of new and exciting recipes for singles, couples and families, including Tofu Tikka Masala, Mushroom Carbonara Perfect for and Cottage Pie, all delivered to front doors with easy-to-follow instructions.

Exciting Vegan Credited with revolutionising the vegan offering, Vertigo’s much loved plant-based Recipes menu has become a firm favourite in the North West and has been named as one of the Top 20 Vegan Restaurants in the UK. Michael Jebelli, founder of Beetbox and Vertigo, said: “The recipes all take inspiration from our restaurant best sellers, and range from simple, quick meals to the more challenging delicious dinners that will entertain budding chefs. The fresh ingredients provided in the recipe boxes are high quality and sustainably sourced, and we’re pleased to be supporting local farmers in this difficult time.” www.beetbox.recipes 62

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Food & Drink

One Fine Dining

Perfect for Michelin Star Quality Food

Over the last 10 years On Air Dining has changed the face of dining for Executive and Private Aviation. The company have since launched One Fine Dine, delivering the same award-winning dining and concierge experience in your home, boardroom and exclusive event.

Able to deliver 24/7, whether you fancy a meal for one or want to entertain at home for your garden parties/ soirees. All meals are delivered fresh and chilled with easy-to-follow heating and plating instructions on video or printed cards making the whole experience fun and interactive for you and the whole family.

Continuing on the founding principle of exceptional service, the dedicated culinary concierge team is on hand to personally discuss your order and coordinate with their team of chefs so no detail is overlooked. One Fine Dine offers Michelin star quality food, delivered to your door ready to heat, plate and serve like a master chef.

Daniel Hulme, Founder of One Fine Dine said: “The takeaway market has absolutely exploded, but what’s not been on the market is an elite, higher-end product. Our product is delivered cold (pre-cooked), and you put it together in very simple and quick steps - it’s fun, the most luxurious ‘kit’ you can get.” www.onefinedine.com

Delicario’s Artisan Meal Box Selection

Perfect for Artisanal Delicacies Sourced from Around the World

Delicario is an innovative online ‘international farmers market’, selling individual items, gifts and hampers of artisanal delicacies sourced from hand-picked regional producers all over Europe.

Avoiding mass production, Delicario believes in the unique spirit of natural ingredients, harvested and processed with love by small family businesses and vineyards, always with sustainability in mind.

There’s meal boxes, gift boxes and hampers for kids, vegans, wine lovers, lovers and the whole family as well as the option to customise your own, delivered across the whole of the UK in 24 hours or can be scheduled as an advance delivery for those who like to plan ahead for big celebrations.

An example is the Delicario Cheese and Charcuterie Board, £90.

Tantalise your tastebuds with an evening at home grazing through a selection of gourmet tapas including artisan Italian and Spanish cured ham and fragrant salami, true to traditional recipes handed down through generations, alongside powerful Aged Manchego and sweet artisan cheese with sprigs of thyme from the Madonie mountains served with a spoon of exquisite Fig and Almond Jam. Seasoned cracked green olives, the smooth delicate Pate of Artichokes and the crunch of Pane Guttiau complete the journey. www.delicario.com 63

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YOU WILL F IND ELIVI, WH ER E T H E SUN SETS

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hotels in the city with the Palace distinction, Mandarin Oriental, Paris is superbly located on rue Saint Honoré close to the chic boutiques and moments from the Tuileries Garden and Louvre – perfect to create those celebratory Insta posts. Inspired by fashion and artistic creativity and underpinned by the brand’s legendary service, this Art-Deco-inspired luxury hotel celebrates the Paris of today – and tomorrow. www.mandarinoriental.com/paris

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel

Meet the

Hotelier Craig Hough talks to Kurt Macher, General Manager at Shangri-La Hotel, at The Shard, London

The Shangri-La Hotel is situated in the heart of London’s business district, which is often accused of looking very cold and corporate. How did you make the hotel feel cosy and welcoming?

While the hotel’s location in a modern glass skyscraper means we have beautiful views across London, the lack of mixed-use high-rises in the city can sometimes lead people to mistakenly assume the building is comprised of offices. While there are offices in the building, there are a number of great restaurants located here and Shangri-La Hotel, At The Shard, London is actually the building’s largest occupier, spanning floors 34 – 52.

Within the hotel, we’re able to combine local culture with the Group’s Asian heritage and beautiful, colourful decorations and theming to ensure our local and international guests feel they’re in a welcoming environment.

Your hotel is incredibly inviting to families, with destination-themed rooms on offer for families.

What made you come up with the concept and what can guests expect from each themed room?

Our “Escapism Inspiration” room packages were inspired by the travel experiences we thought our guests might miss during a time where international travel was very uncertain. We wanted to create a multisensory experience that transported guests to their favourite destination, from the comfort of their hotel room for a staycation like no other. To do this, we partnered

with London’s premier proposal and event planning company The Proposers, who transform each room with props and decorations to suit the theme – from choices of “A Night in Paris”, “Safari Extravaganza”, “Beach Retreat” and more. Each room will also be prepared with a bespoke playlist, scent and food and beverage offering inspired by the chosen destination. We’re also working to develop some new creative concepts so watch this space!

“We really love to see our families return again and again to relive their “Shangri-La moment” 69

Travel | The CHESHIRE Magazine

“We hoteliers chose to work in this industr y because of our passion for hospitality and taking care of others” Are there other specific bespoke services (like the “Escapism Inspiration” rooms) you offer that shows you go the extra mile for your guests?

The team and I really pride ourselves on going the extra mile for guests and have a number of bespoke services to ensure authentic and personal moments of joy for our guests. We have implemented a wide range of services from large initiatives such as “The Suite Life” programme which includes a tiered array of exclusive benefits which can be customised to suit the individual guest’s preferences, down to smaller thoughtful touches such as the hotel’s bath butler who organises a luxurious bath experience in individual guest rooms.

How do you personalise each stay for your guests?

If our guest relations team knows that a guest is celebrating a special occasion, we’re able to organise ‘surprise and delight’ moments throughout their stay to ensure it is extra special. From well wishes written on the window of the guest room through to personalised amenities, we try to think outside of the box so that the guest experience is truly personaland memorable.

Any personal favourite guests?

I have a soft spot for our visiting families and feel really blessed that these guests choose to spend their special moments at our hotel. It’s important to me that the whole family - from our littlest to most mature guests – enjoy a personalised experience that appeals to their interests. We really love to see our families return again and again to relive their “Shangri-La moment” and hope we can share these moments with many generations to come.

What was the most unusual request you have had from a guest and how did you fulfil their wishes?

Just about anything is possible when there is time to plan it! On one occasion, we helped to fulfil a young guest’s wish to be a princess for a day. We went all out and organised a horse and carriage and princess actresses to accompany our special guest for an afternoon tea experience fit for royalty.

The Shard is such a modern London landmark and a great place for couples to propose. How many proposals have you had at the venue since you opened, and can you tell us about any that stand out to you?

I think the Shard holds a special place in many people’s hearts, and the hotel’s popularity as a proposal destination is a real testament to this.

When the hotel reopened for the first time last August, we were privileged to host 35 proposals in 2 days which was a record weekend for us. Although many proposals do take place at the hotel, we’re

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

able to tailor each one to the individual couple so the experience is totally unique and sentimental. A trend I’ve seen and love is couples who want to recreate their first holiday for their proposal, and so The Proposers step in to bring this memory to life. Some examples I have seen include a beautiful Cappadocia setup with miniature hot air balloons everywhere and a tropical Mykonos proposal too.

As this is our celebration issue, what other big celebration events have you held at the venue?

We haven’t been able to host big celebrations since the beginning of 2020 but interestingly have seen more weddings than ever over the past year, however they have been smaller in line with government guidelines. Couples have been choosing to splurge on luxurious but intimate weddings which will allow them to have their dream celebration in the current climate. Prior to this, we were renowned for hosting extravagant New Year’s Eve events with incredible views of London’s fireworks so we’re hoping we’ll be able to bring this tradition back in 2021, when we all have a good reason to celebrate.

The Shangri-La Hotel recently featured on BBC’s Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond The Lobby. How did the team enjoy the experience?

We were thrilled to have the documentary filmed at the hotel and the team felt really proud to work here when the programme aired. We’ve actually hosted many different film productions at the hotel ranging from scenes for movies and music videos to live television programmes.

Last year, when the pandemic hit the UK, the hotel closed its door for the first time. What was the effect on the staff and business?

Since the first hotel closure last year, we’ve had to adapt to the new market conditions and learn to be flexible and agile, while thinking outside of the box to create unique experiences for guests in what has become the “new normal”. We took the opportunity during each lockdown to really hone our strategy and adapt to the evolving situation.

With hospitality now open again, what is The Shangri-La Hotel looking forward to for the rest of the year?

Above all else, we’re looking forward to welcoming our guests and hotel team back. We hoteliers chose to work in this industry because of our passion for hospitality and taking care of others – it’s in our DNA and we’re so looking forward to returning to doing what we love. www.shangri-la.com

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Travel news

WORDS:CRAIG HOUGH

SHARED EXPERIENCES

With everyone itching to get back out to explore the world, Sri Lanka Bespoke are hard at work creating authentic, handcrafted insider experiences for those looking to visit the country. Families, thrill-seekers, explorers and romantics alike will love the waterfall walks, safaris and white-water rafting, private jet flights over mountains and jungles, train trips across the country through the most beautiful scenery, the golden beaches, unique spas and the world’s best snorkelling experiences.

Tailor made holidays to Sri Lanka with Sri Lanka Bespoke start from £6,995pp for 14 nights. Price based on 2 adults sharing and includes accommodation on mix of half and full board basis, experiences and personal chauffeur. Excludes flights. www.srilanka-bespoke.com

One-Stop-Shopt Travel App Now that the world is set to open up again, who wants to spend hours finding hotel deals or searching for the best flights? New travel app, Flytinary aims to provide a one-stop travel experience which takes the legwork out of arranging trips to celebrate with your loved ones. The all-encompassing app available on iOS and Android devices uses sophisticated algorithms to find the best flights and features a choice of curated accommodation, as well as memorable experiences and an innovative, in-destination, co-working space finder. With information on everything from the type of plug you’ll need for your destination to the best places to change money. Offline maps are available as well as local taxi apps improving in-destination experiences.

Available now from the app store 72

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel

Four Seasons Retreat

While travel has been on pause, people have sought meaningful escapades and experiences without having to leave the country. Set in 500 acres (200 hectares) of lush countryside, Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire offers the comforts to undertake a journey of discovery, exploration, wellness and nutrition, with a package that caters to different dynamics, be it couple time, reconnecting with relatives, or simply time with one’s closest friends.

Prices start from GBP 720 for two adults, available Monday–Thursday, www.fourseasons.com/hampshire

WONDER OF THE SEAS Royal Caribbean International have announced that Wonder of the Seas, the latest evolution of the revolutionary Oasis Class, will set sail from Shanghai and Hong Kong, China in 2022 on thrilling 4- to 9-night adventures through the Far East to the best of Japan and more. Currently under construction in Saint-Nazaire, France, Wonder will be the world’s largest cruise ship and the first of its kind to call China home when it arrives in March 2022. The ship’s inaugural season cruises are now open for bookings. www.royalcaribbean.com

ON THE ‘RHODES’ TO FREEDOM… Legend has it that Rhodes was blessed by the sun god Helios, which is why it enjoys 300 days of glorious sunshine a year – some of which we hope we’ll get to enjoy this year!

As well as sunshine, Rhodes is blessed with a rich classical heritage and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its Medieval City – perfect for an extra special celebration.

Rodos Palace Hotel The impressive Rodos Palace Hotel is ideally situated in the heart of Ialyssos Bay, just 4 kms from Rhodes Town and medieval city and within easy reach of all the major attractions on this exciting island. The hotel occupies 30 acres of lush gardens descending to an idyllic beach and boasts an unparalleled view of the island and the sparkling blue Aegean Sea.

Esperides Beach Family Resort Esperides Beach Family Resort is a paradise by the sea, especially designed with children in mind. A world full of energy and vitality - perfect for families seeking a relaxing holiday for the parents and fun for the kids.

The delicious cuisine offered in the restaurant coupled with the wide range of activities on offer - particularly for children, ensure all the perfect ingredients are in place for a truly memorable family holiday. www.olympicholidays.com 73

Travel | The CHESHIRE Magazine

In

the

C ity:

London Daniel Khan takes a pre-lockdown trip to the capital to sample two of the city’s finest hotels

HAM YARD HOTEL Nestled in between two of central London’s most bustling districts, the ever-vibrant Soho and the immaculate Mayfair, is an Urban Village so wonderful it almost feels as though I should keep it a secret all to myself - yet to do so would be all too cruel to those who are yet to experience it in all its glory. We arrived for our check-in at Firmdale Hotels eighth London property, Ham Yard Hotel, slightly off schedule due to some last minute (but oh so important) jewellery shopping at nearby Dover Street Market. On a arrival at Ham Yard Village (yes- this concept is so wonderfully grand that the hotel is part of its own village) and walked through the tree-filled garden. It was at that moment that the commotion of the city evaporated and the tranquillity of Ham Yard began to reveal itself. Set on a 3/4 acre site, the garden, complete with its stunning commissioned bronze sculpture by Tony Cragg is located as the beating heart of the hotel around which the individually designed bedrooms, suites, restaurant and bar all revolve around.

There was such a buzzing energy surrounding the hotel that even the concierge checking us in was gleeful to show us up to our apartment as though revealing the beauty of the interiors

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was a source of pride to all who work at Ham Yard.

The luxury suite fully exceeded any expectations that the courtyard had built and consisted of a light and airy living area, a sleek Boffi kitchen, a King sized double bedroom and an immaculate white marble bathroom; all adorned with beautiful oak flooring and bold Ikat soft furnishings.

After taking a moment to readjust to our idyllic surroundings, we ventured off to our booking at the hotel’s on-site 1950s Croc Bowling Alley in the basement. Ham Yard not only boasts its own bespoke bowling facility, it also has a 190 seat state-of-the-art theatre, the Dive bar which holds what can only be described as the world’s most beautiful spiralling orange juicer and a fourth-floor roof terrace with sweeping views over the London skyline.

In the evening we once again took the short walk across the courtyard to the Restaurant for our dinner booking. Offering a frequently changing menu depending on the seasonal ingredients, the restaurant offers both intimate indoor and alfresco outdoor dining. Here we enjoyed a sumptuous array of seafood dishes from the Lobster entree through to a delightful seafood linguine, finishing as every perfect evening should, with thyme washed tequila-based cocktails.

Ham Yard Hotel is quite simply the jewel in the crown of Firmdale Hotels impressive and evergrowing portfolio of luxury properties and sits proudly in the heart of London to represent what can be achieved when concept and design coexist in perfect harmony. www.firmdalehotels.com

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel

THE NED ‘Ned’ is one of those buzzwords in London that has become a cult very much of its own. I was once told by a London dwelling friend that if you have not stayed at The Ned in Bank, then you have not truly done London. Set in London’s business district and amongst some of the city’s most recognisable skyscrapers, sits the former Midland Bank which has been renovated into a hotel that has all the splendour to compete with some of London’s most well-established luxury hotel chains yet with an unexpectedly trendy edge that regularly sets social media ablaze. The hotel was created in 2017 by Soho House & Co and boasts a collection of restaurants, a member’s club and a restful wellness spa. The most appropriate way to describe entering into the Art deco Banking Hall on a Friday evening to check-in is to imagine you are entering into the London elite’s version of Las Vegas. As the brass band sounded the room with upbeat jazz, guests of the hotel filled the hall with all the wonderful buzz that you come to expect of the capital city’s best hotspots.

En route to our ‘Heritage’ room, we got to explore the impeccably dressed hallways of this now infamous establishment. The room interior was reminiscent of the Art deco transatlantic ocean liners of the early 1900s (think Titanic... but this voyage would end with far greater

success). With delightfully modern twists and turns; mosaic bathrooms with a range of full-sized Cowshed products that have become synonymous with the Soho house branding, a large free-standing bathtub in the middle of the room and retro phones that have fashion retailing powerhouse Net-A-Porter on speed dial. It is in such details that the Ned demonstrates a most exceptional understanding of their guests and their acute knowledge of their very specific needs.

The options for dining at The Ned are endless with Millie’s Lounge offering up a menu of British classics, Malibu Kitchen providing the hotel’s more health conscious clientele with superfood salads and cured fish dishes and the Asian-Pacific inspired restaurant Kaia offering poke bowls (and a bottomless Saturday brunch for those so-inclined).

Our choice however was an altogether more casual affair at the American Electric Bar and Diner. In the variety of restaurants, The Ned offers, there is a clear comprehension that no matter how formal the dining experience is, the quality of the food and service provided should never waiver. At the Diner, we sat in a plush red leather booth, overindulged in lobster rolls and gourmet chicken burgers and shared a bottle of prosecco as we unpicked what it was that made the stay here so very special.

In truth, trying to unpick what makes a stay at The Ned so very special is difficult for one very simple reason; Is it an experience that is completely unique in its mission to celebrate snippets of modernity in an environment that embraces good old-fashioned grandeur. www.thened.com 75

BY

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel

A Luxury Leisure Experience With Portugal now officially on the travel green list, Craig Hough took a trip to the heart of the Algarve to visit Four Seasons Fairways in Quinta do Lago

T

he wait to travel is finally over. After months of working from home and treading the same ground just to ‘get your steps in’, the government’s recent announcement has given plenty of reason to cheer. Portugal is ready and waiting to welcome UK visitors again. To celebrate my partner’s birthday, we took a short 3 hour flight for a pre-lockdown break in Quinta do Lago to stay in one of the Algarve’s most prestigious villa resorts.

Four Season Fairways Nestled within the privacy and security of the stunning Ria Formosa nature reserve, lies Four Seasons Fairways. After a short 20 minute car journey from Faro airport we arrived at the private villa resort to be greeted by warm weather and a friendly team. The resort is home to 132 colonial style villas and apartments set in

beautifully landscaped gardens with each featuring its own pool or jacuzzi, terrace or garden area and outdoor BBQ/cooking station – perfect for hosting family and friends.

The Clubhouse Before walking to our villa, we stopped at the Clubhouse to enjoy a drink by the outdoor pool to wind down from the flight.

The Clubhouse area is the main hub of the resort and has recently gone through a €2m renovation to create the perfect environment to work out, dine and unwind. It’s home to a heated indoor and outdoor pools, creche, snooker room, wine cellar, fully equipped gym, treatment rooms 77

and cleverly designed indoor-outdoor bar where you can kick back and relax in the most peaceful atmosphere.

Accomodation We took a leisurely walk to our villa so we could take in all the sights of the stunning landscaped gardens. En route, we found a bench that overlooked the immaculately kept golf course, so took five minutes to relax and spectate. There was a great deal of relaxing on this trip. Arriving at our new home for the week, we marvelled at the vibrant interior décor. The cupboards were stocked with items we had pre-ordered before our flight, meaning there was no need to rush to the on-site convenience store. The villas at Four Seasons Fairways have recently gone through an extensive refurbishment blending authentic Portuguese style with a modern décor and furnishings, new state-of-the-art kitchens and lighting design that is both functional and atmosphere- enhancing. Fresh blues and greens bring the beauty of the outdoors into the living space. Portugal’s history and culture has been the major inspiration for the design including the discovery journeys in the XV century, poems from Luis de Camões and the Fado singing, remembering Amalia Rodrigues. The sea, the sky and the typical azulejo are also present in the blue colour scheme in the lounge. Designer furniture, granite bathrooms, bespoke artwork and custom interior fittings personalise each villa in individual, comfortable and stylish fashion. The focus is on easy living, relaxation and a home from home villa lifestyle, a lifestyle we swiftly eased into, spending every evening unwinding in the jacuzzi looking up at the stars.

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Food and Drink The Clubhouse is also home to VIVO Bistro & Cocktail Lounge and Amara, an intimate restaurant offering Portuguese traditional food with contemporary cuisine. If you are after a more private dining experience, you can make use of the recently launched ‘Drop & Scoff’ food delivery service, an enhancement to their already popular take-away service (which we were quick to sample on our first evening). You can now order food and beverages from the resorts VIVO Bistro & Cocktail Lounge delivered straight to your villa - they drop, you scoff! You can start the day by ordering in some traditional pastel de nata, French toast and perhaps their Feta, Cheese and Rocket or Wild Berry Breakfast Bowls accompanied by a fresh juice, smoothie, tea or coffee. Lunch dishes include Gazpacho, Piri-Piri Prawns, a mouth-watering salad selection including Thai Roast Beef and Tuna. Dinner options include Foie Gras Ganache, Oysters, Smoked Salmon Millefeuille or local Ria Formosa Clams, Octopus ‘a Lagareiro’, Crispy Monk Fish Thai Green Curry, Lamb Wellington, SlowCooked Pork Tenderloin, Mushroom Risotto, Avocado with Grilled Tiger Prawns Salad. Or, if you’d prefer to cook at your leisure on your very own outdoor BBQ, the resort also offers DIY BBQ Packs with a choice of meat or fish to cook at your villa.

Family First It’s not just the parents that Four Seasons Fairways look after – a new crèche service has

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

recently been launched for 6 months old babies and toddlers up to 2 years old and the revamped kids club for children aged 3 to 12 years, meaning parents can enjoy time on the golf course, in the spa or taking in the sun, safe in the knowledge their little ones are being well looked after. The kids club runs a weekly activity programme from Monday to Friday during school holidays. Indoor activities include painting, baking, Disney cinema afternoons, treasure hunts, paper creations, face painting and so much more. The resort also offers outdoor excursions such visiting the water sports academy, miniature golf and karting during school holidays.

Leisure One of the main attractions of the Algarve (other than the 3,000 plus hours of sunshine each year) is its 31 golf courses to test even the most ardent player. High profile names such as Ant and Dec, Tiger Woods and José Mourinho have been seen golfing in the area. Quinta do Lago has been home of the Portuguese Open for many years and rated as one of Europe’s ten best courses.

These courses meander through the spectacular 2000 acre estate and afford delightful views of the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve, providing a solid test of golf for players of all levels of ability. If golf is not your thing, Four Seasons Fairways also boasts two tennis courts where you can brush up on their racket, fitness and court movement skills

with the professional tennis coach. For those that enjoy lower intensity sports, yoga and tai chi are available. Bikes can be hired to explore the local area as the resort is conveniently located close to a stunning stretch of beach.

Personal Note If you are the kind of person that enjoys a relaxed, peaceful, environment, warm hospitality, surrounded by natural beauty with varied leisure facilities and services on offer then Four Seasons Fairways is the break for you. With Portugal now on the green list, it’s the perfect time to book your stay and start creating memories that will last a lifetime. www.fourseasonfairways.com

Active Living Programme This year, Four Seasons Fairways are promoting their ‘Active Living Programme’, which will be fronted by Skeleton Olympic Gold Medallist, Amy Williams MBE and guests will have a chance to join her out in the Algarve.

From 21st – 28th November 2021, Amy will lead stretch and mobility classes in the grounds of the resort, HIIT, Full Body Burn, Core and Abs sessions and you’ll have the opportunity to join her for a bike tour along the Ria Formosa as well as taking to the water for a Kayak Safari.

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Promotion

C ele eleb b rate

B a jan

S t yl y le Learn how to party like a local at one of the fantastic festivals on offer in Barbados Crop Over & Grand Kadooment

Open Water Festival 3rd - 7th November 2021

Barbados Crop Over Festival is also known as The Grand Kadooment which is a harvest festival that dates back to 1687. The 3-month long festival is a way to celebrate the end of the sugar cane season and is one of the country’s biggest events. Crop Over Festival is filled with fun, parties (fetes), street parties, tasty food, dancing, Soca music, and colourful Masquerade Bands. The end of this festival is marked with Grand Kadooment day in August, which marks the close of the carnival season. www.visitbarbados.org

Barbados Food & Rum Festival 27th - 31st October 2021 The Barbados Food and Rum Festival returns for 2021 – tastier than before!

As Barbados is the birthplace of rum and known as the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean, the two concepts were married, and the highly anticipated annual Barbados Food and Rum Festival was born. Local chefs and mixologists join forces with international invitees at this constantly expanding culinary festival with events all over the island and plenty of opportunities to sample the best local rums. www.visitbarbados.org

The Barbados Open Water Festival invites a diverse mix of swimmers of all ages and abilities from all over the world for five days of swimming fun.

This year expect three days of practice swims (2K) in three different locations and two days of races (1.5K, 3.3K, 5K and 10K) in Carlisle Bay. The event is expected to bring more excellent conditions, great prizes, barbecue, kayaking and SUPing. After the swim races, the party starts on the beach where revellers can enjoy music, awards presentations, ice cold beer and rum punch. www.barbadosopenwaterfestival.com Please visit www.visitbarbados.org for the most updated information regarding dates and times of all festivals and events

WEL ELC COME STAM TAMP P 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

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Education with with aa broader broader perspective Education perspective

Day, Weekly & Full Boarding . Academic, Arts, Sports Excellence . Scholarships . . .Day, Weekly & Full Boarding . Academic, Arts, Sports Excellence . Scholarships .

Drive Lord, Won’t You Buy Me…?

Sometimes you just have to buy the car you want, rather than the car you need. That’s the whole point of the Mercedes-Benz CLS, which is essentially a prettier version of the E-Class saloon. And the latest update makes the car even easier on the eye, with an even sportier, more modern design and some interior updates.

Under the bonnet, there’s a revamped engine range with a host of four- and six-cylinder power units. But the highlight is the CLS 53, which comes with 429bhp and can get from a standstill to 62mph in 4.5 seconds.

Mercedes-Benz CLS, £TBC, www.mercedes-benz.co.uk

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DRIVE

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

SPEED FREAK

W

e’ve been pretty thorough in our evaluation of the latest-generation Bentley Continental GT, having tried the Convertible in 2019 and then sampling the one-of-a-kind, heavily modified Pikes Peak record holder earlier this year. We’ve also driven the rather marvelous V8 version. But it seems the Continental story does not end there, thanks to the arrival of the new GT Speed.

Bentley calls this the “most dynamic Bentley road car in history”, and that assertion is backed up by the vital stats. The 6.0-litre W12 engine is more or less the same as the standard Continental GT W12, but it’s re-tuned to produce a massive 650bhp. That means this big coupe will get from 0-60mph in 3.5 seconds and hit a top speed of 208mph.

But the straight-line speed is only half the story.

Bentley has also fitted all-wheel steering for extra agility

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and stability, while there’s a clever rear differential to help transmit all that power to the road. And when it comes to stopping, the engineers in Crewe have fitted high-tech carbon-ceramic brakes that are even more powerful than before. Even the four-wheel drive system has been tweaked to give the car its own character.

And Bentley has changed the exterior design, too, giving the GT Speed a few extra features to help it stand out from the crowd. The 22-inch alloy wheels are the highlight, but Bentley has also given the bodywork a bit of extra flair and aggression.

Bentley Continental GT Speed, £TBC, www.bentleymotors.com

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Drive

X MARKS THE TOP BMW’s SUVs are quite the success story, combining some lovely road manners with all the quality and luxury you expect from a premium marque. Now, that philosophy is set to take the electric car market by storm, with the arrival of the new iX later this year. A big SUV with an official all-electric, zero-emission range of up to 373 miles, the iX is designed to reinvent the sector, making strides towards autonomous driving and to provide “quality of life and wellbeing” for owners. Whatever that means.

BMW iX, from £69,000, www.bmw.co.uk

loves

AMPED UP

KING OF THE SKIES The Beechcraft King Air is something of an icon in its field. Like a Ferrari in the world of supercars or a Hoover in the world of vacuum cleaners, the big Beechcraft really is the king of the twin-engine business turboprops. The 15-seat flagship King Air 360 was revealed not so long ago, and that has now been supplemented by the smaller, nine-seat 260 model. Like the 360, the 260 gets a clever autothrottle system that reduces pilot workload and there’s a weather radar that can sense storms well ahead of the aircraft. Newly designed seats have been installed, too, using a pressure-mapping process to create a more comfortable seat shape. All that is supplemented by a 1,720-nautical mile range that’s enough to take you from London to Istanbul non-stop, while the aircraft can cruise at a maximum speed of 310 knots (357mph).

Beechcraft King Air 260, £POA, www.beechcraft.txtav.com

The electric revolution is well and truly underway, and Audi is among those leading the charge. Following on from its plug-in hybrid range and the arrival of its e-tron electric SUV, the company has now revealed the new e-tron GT sports car. Based on the same platform as sister firm Porsche’s critically acclaimed Taycan, the e-tron GT offers a range of just under 300 miles between charges and, in its fastest guise, will get from 0-62mph in just over three seconds. That means it’s about as fast as the R8 supercar, but it comes with rear seats and four doors. Oh, and it doesn’t burn a drop of petrol.

Audi e-tron GT, from £79,900, www.audi.co.uk

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Drive | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Simpl imply y St unn nniing Lexus’ gorgeous new drop-top proves to James Fossdyke that simple things are sometimes best

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Drive

B

ack in the 1960s, before anyone had walked on the moon, flown through the sound barrier on a commercial jet or sent a tweet from a smartphone, the US Navy created an axiom that has survived the test of time.

KISS, or ‘Keep It Simple, Stupid’ was a design principle that suggested things work better when you don’t over-complicate them. For reference, see the US electoral system, the British tax system and the offside rule.

It’s a principle car manufacturers would do well to remember as they strive to create needlessly over-engineered door handles, unhelpfully awkward seat folding mechanisms and climate control systems buried in the depths of fiendish touchscreen menus. But this month has been a reminder of how important simplicity can be.

Now, I know the Lexus LC Convertible doesn’t look simple. The gorgeous design, massive wheels and screens on the dashboard suggest it’s a sort of road-going Starship Enterprise, but this gorgeous, glorious open-top grand tourer is actually remarkably uncomplicated.

The recipe reads something like this. Get a massive American-style V8 petrol engine, then do absolutely nothing to it. No turbochargers to get more power, no stupid hybrid systems to reduce the fuel consumption – just a simple, reliable engine that makes some wonderfully gruff noises and a very substantial 457bhp. Then you send all that power to the back and leave the front wheels free to do the steering. Top it off with an almost obscenely beautiful body and you’re done.

There’s nothing revolutionary about that formula – it’s been in constant use for donkey’s years – but that’s because it’s a good one. It’s almost exactly the same recipe that underpins the Ford Mustang, and that’s one of the most iconic cars ever to grace the asphalt. The Mustang did that by being simple, reliable, fast and cheap – a combination that made it the perfect car to cross America, a country where ‘gas’ prices are low and the distances between towns are high.

The LC Convertible will never reach such iconic status, partly because it only ticks three of those four boxes (and no, there are no prizes for guessing which they are). But this car justifies its price tag by being more than just a muscle car. At risk of sounding like an M&S advert, it’s an unerringly beautiful, magnificently well-built and fabulously excessive muscle car.

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Drive | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Lexus LC 500 Convertible Price as tested: £96,625 Gearbox: 10-speed automatic Engine: 5.0-litre V8 0-62mph: 5.0 seconds Top speed: 186mph Power: 457bhp

Everything you would expect from a Bentley or an Aston Martin is right there, from the plush, diamond-quilted leather and solid, reassuring metalwork to the intricate folding roof and the raft of digital displays. It’s a true premium product that’s filled with class and quality wherever you look…but it’s still a rough-and-ready muscle car at heart.

As such, there are problems and they are quite significant. For one, the LC doesn’t drive as well as the looks or the engine note might suggest. With a 0-60mph time of about five seconds and a 168mph top speed it’s plenty quick enough, but it isn’t going to impress your Porschedriving mates at the local pub.

Their 911s will be quicker pulling away from the traffic lights or blasting down the motorway.

You will be more comfortable, though, because the Lexus has uncannily supple suspension that somehow soaks up almost everything our terrible road surfaces can throw at it. Only the most severe potholes will jolt you in your seat, and although we expect that from Japan’s most luxurious saloon cars, it’s a bit of a surprise in a low-slung convertible. But the catch with this soft, creamy ride is a slight lack of precision when it comes to cornering. I’m not saying the LC is bad through the bends, but the overly light steering doesn’t inspire much confidence and you can

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feel the body pitching and rolling as you corner. A Jaguar F-Type is much more fun.

But the LC isn’t really about that. This is the car that wafts down the flowing French countryside with the roof down and the wind in your hair, all with some tasteful tunes blaring from the 17 crystal clear speakers of the Mark Levinson sound system.

Unfortunately, finding those tasteful tunes might not be easy – and that isn’t just because French radio stations are so awful.

No, the Achilles heel of this car is its multimedia system, which is awkward and clunky and clumsy all at once. It doesn’t look terrible, because the screen is clear and it’s nicely integrated into the dashboard, but you have to use a sort of laptopstyle mousepad to navigate the unfathomable menus. When you’re on the move, that’s a bit like performing brain surgery in an open-cockpit biplane.

Let’s make no bones about it – the LC 500 Convertible is not a great sports car and it isn’t the most user-friendly thing on the road. If you want something fast and furious for a Sunday afternoon blast, buy a Porsche 911 or a Jaguar F-Type. Instead, this is a proper, old-school muscle car that just so happens to be incredibly luxurious. It’s a relaxing, sonorous, dazzling way of crossing continents in comfort and style. Perhaps it isn’t the luxury convertible on which I’d spend my hard-earned, but I’m enormously grateful it exists.

LEAD THE CHARGE

RAV4 RAV4 SELF-CHARGING SELF-CHARGING HYBRID HYBRID

CAR CARBRAND BRANDOF OF THE YEAR THE YEAR2020 2020

Lindop Toyota Queensferry Lindop Toyota Queensferry Station Road Station Road Queensferry Queensferry 01244 821031 01244 821031 lindopqueensferry.toyota.co.uk lindopqueensferry.toyota.co.uk Model shown is MY21 RAV4 Hybrid Design 2.5 VVT-i Auto FWD £33,265 including optional Metallic paint at £615. Prices correct at time of being published. Terms and conditions apply. Official fuel consumption figures mpg (l/100km): combined 48.7FWD (4.8)£33,265 - 50.4 (4.6).

Combined CO2 Metallic 131-134g/km. electric a combination of conditions battery power andOfficial fuel.

Model shown is MY21 RAV4inHybrid Design 2.5 VVT-i Auto including optional paint Hybrid at £615.

Pricesvehicle. correct Figures at time obtained of being using published.

Terms and apply.

Figures are provided for in comparability purposes; only48.7 compare consumption, CO2 CO and/or equivalent all-electric range figuresFigures with other cars tested the same technical procedures.

These fuel consumption figures mpg (l/100km): combined (4.8) fuel - 50.4 (4.6). Combined 2 131-134g/km.

Hybrid electric vehicle. obtained usingto a combination of battery power and fuel. figures may not reflect real life driving results.

Fuel consumption, CO 2 produced and equivalent all-electric range can vary significantly depending on a number of factors, including the accessories Figures are provided for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption, CO2 and/or equivalent all-electric range figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These fitted may (post-registration), driving style, conditions, speed and vehicle load. All models and grades are certified to the Worlddepending Harmonised Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP).

All mpg figures not reflect real life driving results.

Fuel consumption, CO2 produced and equivalent all-electric rangeaccording can vary significantly on Light a number of factors, including the accessories and (post-registration), CO2 figures quoted driving are full style, WLTP conditions, figures. More information can be found visiting: Steve Hopewell Holdings Ltd, trading as Lindop fitted speed and vehicle load.

All by models andwww.vehicle-certification-agency.gov.uk/fcb/wltp.asp. grades are certified according to the World Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP).

All mpg Toyota, is actingquoted as a credit broker and not a lender. and CO2 figures are full WLTP figures.

More information can be found by visiting: www.vehicle-certification-agency.gov.uk/fcb/wltp.asp. Steve Hopewell Holdings Ltd, trading as Lindop Toyota, is acting as a credit broker and not a lender.

Home Take a Seat The UK’s fastest growing

omni-channel sofa retailer, Sofology, is opening their first Stockport store this month. Situated at the popular retail shopping destination The Peel Centre in Stockport, the new store, spread over two floors, will feature over 70 inspiring room sets for customers to explore and relax in.

Open 7 days a week, the new Stockport location has been designed to showcase the sofa specialist’s exclusive collection of upholstery, furniture and accessories. www.sofology.co.uk

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Home | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Be th t he Host w ith the Mo M o st Al Fres rescco Sty tylle Take alfresco dining and garden gatherings to the next level with Gardenesque’s selection of outdoor furniture and practical accessories that will transform your garden it into the perfect setting for an outdoor soiree

Turn up the Heat

It’s always worth remembering that even on the hottest of summer days, the evenings get cold and you will need to keep warm after the sun goes down. Outdoor heaters are popular options and the Candela Pendant Electric Patio Heater (RRP £89.99 - #1) is perfect to take the chill off on summer evenings, and can be hung from a parasol, gazebo, awning or patio roof to instantly create a warming atmosphere, without taking up much space.

Fire pits and patio fireplaces provide a focal point, a central gathering place and a welcoming environment at parties and are ideal for lighting after dark.

The Hoole Cesta Steel Fire Basket (RRP £69.99 - #2) is compact in size, so is ideal for smaller outdoor spaces, whilst the Wakehurst Outdoor Fireplace With Wood Storage (RRP £499.99 - #3) is a show stopping piece for #1 your patio, allowing you to watch the dancing flames whilst producing radiant warmth.

#3

#2

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#4

#5

Sitting Pretty

Ample seating is essential for a cosy garden party and what better way to celebrate #6 summer than with a delicious, al-fresco meal or gathering in your garden? Host an outdoor lunch or evening dinner party will create new summer memories right at home.

Turn your outdoor rooms into a beautiful gettogether living space with the Paxton Rattan Garden Corner Sofa Set (RRP £2399 - #4) which is practical, comfortable, stylish and perfect for large families or outdoor entertaining with friends. Natural materials create a relaxed mood, which is especially important when eating so the Repton Eucalyptus Wood Table & Four Chairs Garden Bistro Set (RRP £419.99 - #5) is ideal for informal and tranquil evenings.

Homes and Interiors #8

#7

#13 #11

Or maybe you just fancy reading your book alone, gently sipping on a drink as the sun goes down. The Paxton Rattan Garden Day Bed (RRP £899.99 - #6) will turn your outdoor space into the ultimate garden lounge, allowing you to unwind to the sounds of nature.

Mouthwatering Treats

If the weather’s good, then you might want to consider having a tasty and flavoursome barbecue. It’s a great way to cook large amounts of food fresh and in front of your guests. A simple charcoal barbecue is perfect for the job and the Portable Kettle BBQ with Charcoal Pan (RRP £79.99 - #7) will make sure that the food you’re preparing is delicious and worth the wait.

For budding grill chefs and enthusiasts, the new ceramic Kamado Portable Grill and Smoker, (RRP £499.99 -£999.99 - #8) will cook items to perfection and heats up ready for action in just 15 minutes. Offering the ultimate in versatility, you can use this charcoal grill for grilling, searing, baking and smoking by adding wood chips to the charcoal for a taste sensation.

Plants

Make sure your garden is in enviable shape before your guests arrive. Simple tasks will elevate your garden such as cutting the grass, prune overhanging shrubs and deadhead flowers to create an inviting setting. Nothing

#9

says summer time like the sweet scent of flowers and sunshine, a few colourful pots of flowers #10 such as achillea, helenium, lupins, iris, lilies, phlox and salvia will entice with their fragrant aromas and bold hues.

Accessorise with containers and group multiple pots of different shapes and sizes to transform corners of your patio. The range of Loudon Classical Glazed Planters (RRP £23.99 - £49.99 - #9) can be tied together using a colour scheme or accent plant that is repeated in each for an impressive display.

Let There Be Light

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When the summer evenings hit, transform your outdoor space into a magical wonderland with the right lighting. Strings of fairy lights, solar stake lights or lanterns can really set the mood for your gathering.

The 200 LED Solar String Lights (RRP £19.99 - #10) and Decorative Metal Solar Lanterns (RRP £24.99 - #11) work for every summer gathering, adding a relaxing ambiance that can stay outside all year round.

Transform your garden as dusk falls and with some decorative lanterns such as the Edison Copper Cage LED Solar Lantern (RRP £29.99 - #12) to set the mood. When you have enough outdoor lighting, you don’t need to transfer the gathering inside when it gets dark and the Copper Sphere LED Solar String Lights (RRP £24.99 - #13) will keep the festival feeling going all night long.

Whether you want to relax in the sun with friends or eat and play some games, Gardenesque summer styling ideas will get you started. View the full Gardenesque range at www.gardenesque.com

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Feature

S u m mer me r G a rden i n g G u id ide Ready set grow for a summer in full bloom with expert tips from Marcus Eyles, Horticultural Director at Dobbies Garden Centres

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he warmth of the summer sunshine makes it the ideal time to enjoy your garden. Officially starting on Monday 21 June, the long-awaited season of longer lighter days is when many gardens look their best, filled with colour and fragrance. Whether you planted young seedlings in spring and can now enjoy seeing your efforts burst into bloom, or you’re looking for fast floral additions, Dobbies Horticultural Director, Marcus Eyles shares his top tips to get gardens looking their best.

Marcus states: “Summer is a busy time in the garden, with plenty to do but equally lots to enjoy as nature puts on its best sensory display of the year. As temperatures rise, it’s a time of exuberant growth, with potential dry spells meaning a little extra TLC needed to give your garden a healthy boost.

“Just as plants and lawns need some protection from the sunshine, don’t forget to regularly top up the sunscreen when working outside, stay hydrated and avoid spending too much time gardening when the sun is at its strongest. I tend to do watering, pruning, mowing and any extra planting first thing in the morning or in the late afternoon to early evening - the same applies if you’re working in the greenhouse. I find the cooler temperatures make it a much more enjoyable time of day to be pottering outside!”

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Early Summer Gardening Action Plan Planting Out Once bedding plants raised from seed or young plants have been hardened off in a cold frame over a period of 7 to 10 days, they can now be planted out. More tropical feature plants such as Canna and ornamental bananas can also be planted.

You should remain vigilant of any late frosts or cold snaps and protect plants accordingly. In colder areas of the country, it may be wise to wait until early to mid-June.

Homes and Interiors

Smart Watering Watering is key during peak summer months when your garden is less likely to get what it needs naturally from rainwater. Early morning is the optimal time to water plants, avoiding the hottest part of the day when this will quickly evaporate and allowing a chance for plant roots to take in what they need.

Late afternoon or early evening is ok for watering, so that the plants have time to drink up the water before the heat of the following day but avoid watering too late at night as this can lead to fungus growth. Make sure water is directed at the base of plants, rather than over the top, to ensure the water gets to where it is needed.

Water newly planted shrubs and perennials in dry periods, mulching well to help retain moisture. Adding liquid fertiliser, as per the manufacturer’s instructions, every fortnight to feed plants grown in containers and hanging baskets will help for healthy growth.

Light Work of Weeding Warmer temperatures will herald the appearance of weeds in flower beds and borders. The quickest and easiest way to control them is to hoe them off before they get chance to get established, applying a thick layer of mulch over the soil surface to help keep any further weeds at bay. Mulching with organic matter, such as garden compost, also locks in moisture and, over time, helps to improve your soil, whilst giving plants a well-needed boost.

Practical Pruning Regularly dead-heading flower borders will extend the flowering season well into autumn, particularly for Dahlias, Roses and cottage garden Perennials.

Any early flowering herbaceous plants that have already died back can be cut back and tidied, whilst some will grow back with a second flush of foliage and

flower for a late season display, such as Geraniums and Delphiniums. Spring flowering annuals, such as Forget-me-nots, will have faded now and should be lifted to make way for later summer plantings. Fill gaps with fast growing high summer bedding plants such as Dahlia, Cosmos and Nicotiana.

Prune Wisteria cutting whippy side shoots back to around five leaves to 20cm in length. Prune spring flowering shrubs, such as Deutzia and Weigela soon after flowering has faded to prevent them becoming overgrown. Remove spent branches with secateurs or loppers to allow new growth to develop as this will carry next Spring’s display.

Cottage Garden Plant Support In cottage gardens, make sure plant supports are in place and they’ll soon be disguised by fresh new growth. Sweet Peas should be growing strongly now. Use garden twine to tie-in growths to their supports. Once established, they will climb happily by themselves.

Take action to protect susceptible lush foliage of prized herbaceous plants, such as Delphinium and Hosta, from slug damage.

Early season herbaceous plants, such as Hardy Geranium and Oriental Poppies can be cut back after flowering to encourage re-growth of tidy, fresh new foliage. Geraniums will often put on a second, late season flower display. Mulch and feed for an extra boost. Clematis montana can be cut back after flowering to control growth if required. Also, tie in new growth on summer flowering Clematis and Honeysuckle.

Dead-head Roses to encourage repeat flowering.

Feed them with Rose fertiliser and add a layer of mulch for an extra boost to support strong growth and

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FINISHING TOUCHES Plant up some pots: Spruce up your patio or balcony

AD EXCESTIS MAIO BERIBUSCIM VOLUM ACCABOR MOD ET ACCULLUPTUS ET UT QUAS UNTIO EXCERERFERUM with a few planted containers. Choose your plants and VELECTIOS MOLORE CORUM VOLUPTI AUT INVEL IUS APELIGNITIIS INIS NON CONEM IL IPSAM, CUPTATE MPELLOREMPOS pots at the same time for a coordinated feel. Create a EST UT ET RE RE, SAM LAUT QUUNTIOS MOD MAIO. ITAE QUISTOT ATEMPOR EHENDIT EIUNT

a floriferous display. Roses are at their peak in June, making it the perfect time to choose new varieties to add to your summer display. We have a vast range of our new own brand roses now in store.

Show Lawns Some Love Lawns are put under extra pressure during high summer months, but established lawns that dry out and have brown patches will recover with some TLC and when rain returns - so don’t panic if they do.

Regular mowing is best for a healthy lawn, reducing the cutting height to help prevent drying out and when the grass is growing more strongly. Keeping the blades slightly higher will also help the grass resist the extra summer wear from garden games and stay at home picnics. For a lovely, lush green lawn, apply a high nitrogen summer feed.

Why not leave some areas of grass to grow to allow wildflowers to flourish, supporting wildlife and pollinating insects.

Wildlife Wellbeing According to a recent survey by UK charity RSPB, more than half of Brits said that spending more time at home over the last year has made them more aware of nature around them. The warmer months are a brilliant time for some garden wildlife spotting and to do your bit to protect the nature that lives on your doorstep.

Provide a wildlife haven with the addition of bird feeders, bird baths topped up regularly with fresh clean water and shady shelter. Encourage bees and butterflies with plenty of plants that will attract pollinators, such as Aster, Cosmos, Verbena and herbs like Sage, Mint, Rosemary and Thyme will also attract Bees.

Quick Fix Colour – Summer Bedding Plants You can’t beat summer bedding plants for a colour burst and fast results. There are so many varieties to choose from, you can have beautiful flowers from late spring through till autumn. Whether you’ve got a large garden to co-ordinate, or just need a few pots to add colour to your balcony or windowsill, there are endless ways to use bedding plants, making them one of the most popular additions to any summer garden.

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statement with several identical pots. Or go for an eclectic mix showcasing different varieties and colours.

Terracotta pots or wooden containers will give you a traditional look, while eco-friendly plastics and bright colours will bring a contemporary feel.

Try a hanging basket: Mix and match bedding plants in a hanging basket to create a high impact feature to liven up a doorway, wall or fence. For best results, pack in as many bedding plants as you can. Position upright varieties like petunias or begonias in the centre, with trailing plants like lobelia or bacopa around the edges to create fullness and a waterfall effect. Remember to water the basket every day and you’ll get months of lovely flowers.

Brighten a windowsill: No garden? No problem.

Bedding plants can help you make the most of whatever outdoor space you have. Choose a size and shape of container to suit and you can transform your windowsill or doorstep with beautiful blooms.

Geraniums are always a good choice if your windowsills are exposed.

Know Your Bedding Plants Impatiens: Busy Lizzies thrive in shade, so they’re a top choice if you want to brighten a shady spot. In pretty shades of pinks, reds, oranges, purples and white, this variety is ideal for bringing together lots of different colour schemes.

Begonias: Begonias are happy to grow in most conditions, making them perfect for all kinds of spaces. This pretty variety has small red, pink, and white flowers, contrasting with shiny, rounded, succulent leaves in bronze or green.

Trailing Petunia: You can’t beat Trailing Petunias for a spectacular hanging basket. Just a few plants create an enormous display, making them real value for money.

This striking variety has blooms in vivid shades of pink, purple, blue, white and red.

Summer colour in the garden...

For information on virtual events hosted by Marcus Eyles, with his gardening tips and advice, visit www.dobbies.com

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IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN FEATURING YOUR PROPERTY FOR SALE OR LET IN THE CHESHIRE MAGAZINE CONTACT

hello@thecheshiremag.co.uk

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Q&A

with

BETH WEBB, FOUNDER OF BETH WEBB INTERIORS Tell us a bit more about you…

I was born and raised in a tiny town in Tennessee - Lookout Mountain. I studied in the States and spent my junior year abroad at the University of Kent in Canterbury, England. After graduation I yearned to return to Europe, so I applied for a student work permit and worked a year in London before applying for the Sotheby’s Works of Art course there. When that ended, I went on to New York City and eventually moved back to the South and was a private art dealer when a friend insisted, I design an 1892 second empire house for their foundation. That fortuitous “yes” changed my life!

Who are your greatest influences?

The women in my life, my mother and both grandmothers.

They taught me everything and encouraged my love of art, travel, entertaining and the finer things in life. My inherent respect for the five senses come from these women, I design for an all-encompassing sensory experience - sound, touch, feel, scent and taste for all come to life in a room; and to be sure it is from these influential women that I learned about the importance of beauty and the essential comforts of home.

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

I am lucky to have many, many clients for life and it brings me great joy to be a part of their worlds. We have had

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unforgettable experiences designing homes all over but some of the best and most memorable are quite frankly usually those that are the most challenging. We had a client purchase a 1940’s private rail car as they did not like to fly. The research that went into the design, the technical aspects and the logistical hurdles were fascinating. Unfortunately, it never was completed because when retrofitting the car, it caught on fire and was destroyed.

Another was our first project in Costa Rica. The entire town itself was just being master planned so we were there from its inception and have watched it grow over the years from a dirt road and a beach to the thriving little town it is today called Las Catalinas. We did one of the first houses on the properties for its founder. Working with the locals and visiting the workrooms and workshops, building furniture onsite doing a deep dive into their culture was an enriching albeit daunting process - coupled with the language barrier.

That experience informed many of my own designs ultimately. The experience informed many of my designs for my first collection with Arteriors from the use of rattan in the Lyford chair and then cast stone in the Catalina lighting.

Traditional vs contemporary style?

Both. My birthday is July 23rd, dead on the cusp of Cancer and Leo, which apparently has been labeled the most schizophrenic cusp in the zodiac and also explains my love of traditional, transitional and contemporary interiors. I think it also has to do with having studied art history all those years, I have a great appreciation for many periods and styles due to my aesthetic education. All in all my interiors are calm, layered, and comfortable.

What would you consider your greatest achievement?

My family, my children and now greatly expanded second family with my husband, his children and a growing brood of grandchildren.

What would your superpower be?

Like many people in design, I suppose I could be a super multi-tasker, we get paid to be both OCD and are often ADD so at that last hour of an on-site installation with carpenters afoot, flowers being delivered, a last piece of furniture arriving at long last I do feel like I wear the cape of a magician. We cannot afford to be change adverse in our profession; ‘pivot’ is what we do best. www.arteriorshome.com

P.S. Last book you read?

What’s that? I thought certainly I’d have all the time in the world for that given the times, but not so as we’ve never been busier. I craved comfort reading during the last eleven months so revisited one of my favorites of late, The Secret Garden, salve for the soul.

Dream buy?

I miss traveling so much! At this point in time, a luxuriously decadent trip somewhere. My husband and I have the first trip already planned and it will be Italy for a month, starting at Villa Feltrinelli on Lake Garda, going afterwards to Villa D’Este on Lake Como, then ending in Florence. We’d like to be gone for a month; fingers crossed we can make that happen!

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H O U G H

G R E E N ,

F R O M 5

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£ 6 9 5 , 0 0 0

B E D R O O M S , 3

C H 4

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R E C E P T I O N S

Humphreys Of Chester are proud to market Regents Court, four superb Georgian inspired bespoke high specification five double bedroomed detached family homes which have been skilfully designed with an excellent sense of proportion and light.

The property has been finished with state of the art double glazed high length windows with underfloor heating to the ground floor and radiators via gas fired central heating to the first and second floor

L O C A T I O N Hough Green is one of Chester’s most well regarded residential areas, being well placed for access to the city centre, being approximately 5 minutes by car and 15-20 minutes on foot.

Hough Green has a range of day-to-day amenities nearby including shopping, a library and Westminster Park, with further amenities available in Handbridge and Chester city centre.

Humphreys of Chester, 17-19 Lower Bridge Street, Chester, CH1 1RS

S A L E S

t: 01244 401100 e: chestersales@humphreysofchester.co.uk

L E T T I N G S

t: 01244 402940 e: chesterlettings@humphreysofchester.co.uk

If you wish to arrange a viewing appointment for this property, or require further information contact

01244 401100

www.humphreysofchester.co.uk

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Case Study

The Orchard, CHESTER Humphreys of Chester are proud to introduce The Orchard, a collection of three, six bedroom 3000 sqft new build executive homes situated within walking distance of the city centre and the prestigious Kings School

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his is a truly stunning collection of three six bedroom new build homes situated in an exclusive gated development.

Each boasting over 3000 sq ft of living space set across three floors. Featuring a Siematic kitchen and Zest designed bathroom suites as well as all the modern day living conveniences and technology one could wish for.

This development of three carefully designed and crafted luxury homes, are situated within a prestigious and gated residence with communal orchard space, focussing on both security and exclusivity. Set within walking distance of Chester city centre and all the delights our city has to offer, you will find a range of award-winning eateries as well as independent shops, the recently opened Storyhouse cinema providing theatre entertainment and culture as well as the famous River Dee front, perfect for evening strolls or family days out.

Sam Johnson of Humphreys commented “The Orchard is a fantastic select development, which is nearing completion.

The show house is now available to view. It has been a real joy to see this site grow into what is sure to become one of the most sought after modern developments in Chester.

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Elmridge Developments are a well established development company with a keen eye for detail and an excellent track record.

Their policy of only taking on manageable sites of a certain size means that their attention to detail and build quality are industry leading. The internal finish, quality of landscaping and intelligent layouts will impress all interested parties.

The houses pack a real punch in terms of square footage and the accommodation is spread over three floors. Whilst technically six bedroom units, with the modern trend of working from home on the increase, it is likely that at least one of these rooms will be repurposed as a luxurious home office.

Indeed, such is the extensive array of rooms, that a huge variety of different ways that each room could be utilised.

The layout is excellent with the ground floor strikingly designed and perfectly aligned with modern day living requirements. In addition to a living room there is a stunning open plan kitchen / dining / family room which has to be seen to be believed. This will be the hub of family life and opens on to and overlooks the garden. The quality is underpinned by a 10year structural guarantee.

For a personal description of the development, to learn more about or to book a viewing appointment at the show house, please contact myself or my office”.

FROM £900,000 FREEHOLD, Viewing by prior appointment with Humphreys of Chester on (01244) 401100, www.humphreysofchester.co.uk

Interiors Homes Homes and and Interiors

The Details ROOM DIMENSIONS Ground Floor: • Family Room/Kitchen 8.3m*5.6m • Lounge 5.6*3.6 • Utility 2.4m*2.4m • Garage 5m*3m • Downstairs WC 2.2m*2.1m First Floor: • Bedroom 1 - 3.7m*3.6m (en suite 2.4m*1.8m) • Bedroom 2 - 4.6m*3.2m (en suite 1.3m*2.8m) • Bedroom 3 - 4.3m*4.1m • Bedroom 4 - 4.1m*3.2m • Bathroom - 2.2m*2.8m Second Floor: • Bedroom 5 - 4.0m*3.5m • Master Bedroom - 5.4m*4.7m • Master En suite 3.2m*2.1m • Office - 5.6m*2.0m • Dressing Room - 4.0m*2.3m KEY FEATURES • Executive new build • Six bedrooms • Highest quality throughout • Gated residence • Four bathrooms • Open plan living space • Private rear gardens • Set over three floors

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Quality dementia care in Cheshire you can trust When a family is thinking about care for an older loved one, they want the best. They want to know that the home they choose will put their loved one’s safety and wellbeing first.

Care UK’s care homes in Cheshire are luxury, purpose-built homes where compassionate and expert teams deliver quality care you can trust, in a warm, safe and welcoming environment.

Abney Court in Cheadle, Deewater Grange in Chester and Oakfield Croft in Sale provide long and short term residential, dementia and nursing care, giving families peace of mind that their loved ones can stay living at the home should their needs change.

Leading the way in care Each home is part of award-winning provider, Care UK – one of the UK’s most successful care home

operators. Care UK has over 35 years’ experience of delivering high quality care to older people, with more outstanding rated homes than any other provider*.

Care UK leads the way in safety, with enhanced infection control measures and purpose-built visiting suites. They are championing the Covid-19 vaccination programme to protect those living, visiting and working in their care homes.

Fulfilling lives Living at a Care UK home is all about quality of life. Every colleague in the home is passionate about enabling residents to enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle, tailoring their

* As rated by the Care Quality Commission in England and the Care Inspectorate in Scotland. † Seven days’ written notice required

day around their interests and preferences. If your loved one enjoys a quiet cuppa in bed with Woman’s Hour, wishes to attend a virtual church service, or loves a beer every evening, the team will make it happen.

Peace of mind guaranteed Care UK’s 28 day guarantee gives you complete confidence and flexibility if you are not absolutely happy, or simply change your mind about the need for a care home†.

To find out more, visit careuk.com/28-day-guarantee To find out more about Care UK’s Cheshire care homes, visit careuk.com Abney Court care home Cheadle 0161 8207879 Deewater Grange care home Chester 01244 455981 Oakfield Croft care home Sale 01615 327912

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Q&A

with

GEOFF EDWARDS, OPERATIONS DIRECTOR FOR THE NORTH OF ENGLAND, CARE UK What does your role at Care UK involve?

I have overall responsibility for Care UK’s care homes in its northern region and ensure that every home has what it needs to deliver the excellent care we’re renowned for.

Tell us about Care UK’s homes in Cheshire…

We have fantastic care homes for older people in Cheshire, including three new care homes: Abney Court in Cheadle, Oakfield Croft in Sale and Deewater Grange in Chester – the latter two only opened last year.

The three homes focus on delivering high quality care in luxurious surroundings: each home has a hair salon, cinema, café, bar and beautiful gardens. The homes are staffed by highly experienced, well-trained teams who are passionate about delivering quality of care and quality of life for residents. They get to know each resident well and enable them to enjoy a rewarding lifestyle. Even residents with complex needs, like dementia, live a fulfilling life.

We have fantastic care homes for older people in Cheshire, including three new care homes: Abney Court in Cheadle, Oakfield Croft in Sale and Deewater Grange in Chester – the latter two only opened last year.

The three homes focus on delivering high quality care in luxurious surroundings: each home has a hair salon, cinema, café, bar and beautiful gardens. The homes are staffed by highly experienced, well-trained teams who are passionate about delivering quality of care and quality of life for residents. They get to know each resident well and enable them to enjoy a rewarding lifestyle. Even residents with complex needs, like dementia, live a fulfilling life.

We find the best people – people who truly care. We give them sector-leading training, great rewards and recognition, and promote them from within. It’s thanks to our people that 18 of our homes UK-wide have achieved the sought-after ‘outstanding’ rating from the care regulator (that’s more than any other provider of care homes for older people).

Deewater Grange and Oakfield Croft have yet to be inspected, but their reviews on carehome.co.uk speak for themselves.

What difference has Care UK’s commitment to quality made to residents?

At Abney Court the lifestyle team runs regular exercise classes that are designed to boost residents’ strength and mobility. One lady has really benefited. She’s able to walk more now, and is so much happier.

At Oakfield Croft the team’s care has been transformational for a lady who moved there for end of life care. They’ve turned around her diagnosis and enabled her to regain her health and wellbeing.

When a new Deewater Grange resident, Kath, who is living with dementia, was finding it hard to settle in, knowing she was a keen cricket fan, the team put out a call to their local community for cricket DVDs and magazines. They were inundated! Kath loves watching vintage matches and naming every player in the magazines. She is now flourishing, making friends and enjoying a fantastic social life. www.careuk.com

P.S.

Is there a way of keeping up-to-date with the homes?

Look on their respective Facebook pages.

You’ll be impressed!

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Hot Property

BELMONT HOUSE, HEYBRIDGE LANE, PRESTBURY, CHESHIRE, LOCATED ON ONE OF PRESTBURY’S MOST EXCLUSIVE ROADS, BELMONT HOUSE, IS AN IMMACULATE FIVE BEDROOM HOME THAT PROVIDES EXCEPTIONAL LIVING SPACE ALONGSIDE AN IMPRESSIVE TWO ACRE SOUTH-WEST FACING GARDEN WITH BREATHTAKING VIEWS. OFFERS IN EXCESS OF £3,350,000

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ecently renovated to a superb standard, this expansive home is set over four floors, with electric gated security, integrated smart system throughout, extensive driveway providing an abundance of parking and a bespoke detached double height 6 car garage.

The accommodation comprises a magnificent reception hall that leads on to the stunning bespoke live in family kitchen and accompanying utility. The ground floor also boasts a

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beautifully proportioned drawing room with feature fireplace, gym with patio doors that provide sensational views over the garden, home office, games room, cloak room and children’s den.

On the first floor there are two beautifully decorated bedroom suites with en-suite bathrooms and elegant dressing areas, plus a further two generous bedrooms both with spacious en-suites. The second floor houses the spectacular master suite with his and hers twin shower and

separate dressing area. In addition, there is a lower ground floor perfect for entertaining, with luxurious cinema room and adjoining bar area.

To the rear elevation, the private grounds, which equate to over two acres, have incredible panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

There is a large, beautiful lawned garden with an array of mature trees, plants and shrubbery as well as a generous split level terrace area perfect for alfresco dining. The plot in general offers up a wealth of

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Home

flexibility for potential development and leisure opportunities (STPP).

Belmont House is walking distance (0.8 miles) from the heart of Prestbury village which boasts an excellent array of amenities including multiple restaurants and pubs, a highly regarded primary school and superb leisure facilities including the local tennis club and golf course.

01625 725888 wilmslow@fineandcountry.com www.fineandcountry.com

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Hot Property

ADVERT COPSE HILL, WIMBLEDON, SW20 THIS IMPRESSIVE, TRIPLE FRONTED DETACHED FAMILY HOME HAS BEEN BEAUTIFULLY DECORATED AND FINISHED TO AN EXTREMELY HIGH STANDARD, WITH VAST AMOUNTS OF LIVING AND ENTERTAINMENT SPACE.

£4,650,000

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he home boasts an impressive entrance hallway which provides access to the study, a dining room, and the triple aspect reception room which features a central feature fireplace. On the lower ground floor can be found a plant room, a cinema and games room, as well as a kitchen and family room that opens onto the garden. To the upper two levels can be found five double bedrooms, four bath/shower suites, two walk in dressing areas and the main bedroom has a private balcony.

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Wimbledon Common and Village are within walking distance offering an array of designer shops, boutiques, historic pubs, restaurants and green open spaces. The area has some highly regarded and sought after local and independent schools.

Jackson-Stops’ Wimbledon branch: 020 8879 0099, www.jackson-stops.co.uk

Property Features • Double Garage • Secure Gated Parking • Integrated Speaker System • L uxury High Gloss Kitchen • Over 4500sq/ft • Highly Sought After Location

Home Homes and Interiors The CHESHIRE Magazine |

FINISHING TOUCHES 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

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Home | Homes and Interiors The CHESHIRE Magazine

And Finally ...

We love this sublime match of artwork and furniture design with Art Concepts London artwork.

Jetclass Azure sideboard: An expression of modern and vintage aesthetics from the 60’s epoch with an unmistakable style. This exquisite sideboard joins the best materials with the finest techniques of our craftsmen. A unique product for those who have a peculiar taste for conceptual designs.

Prices starting €3,200, www.jetclass.pt BROKEN DREAM, BY ANTONIO MORA; In various sizes from £800. For purchase contact www.artconcepts.london

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