The Rutland Magazine - Issue 14

A

A time-honoured company creating the finest handcrafted furniture

SKIN CAVIAR NIGHTTIME OIL

INDULGE IN THE LINE-SMOOTHING POTENCY OF CAVIAR, TONIGHT AND BEYOND

LA PRAIRIE’S SCIENTISTS EXPLORED THE UNCHARTERED REALMS OF THE NIGHT AND CREATED A NEW SWISS CAVIAR INCARNATION, CAVIAR RETINOL. A UNIQUE BLEND OF CAVIAR-DERIVED RETINOL AND LIPIDS, IT REVEALS THE ELUSIVE STRENGTH OF CAVIAR BEYOND LIFTING AND FIRMING.

THE INDULGENT OIL, IMBUED WITH CAVIAR RETINOL, UNCREASES, FIRMS AND SEALS –THE NIGHT’S LAST GESTURE.

s ISSUE 14 s

Managing Director

Jack Bennett

Editor

Craig Hough

Editorial Assistant

Margaret O’Donnell

Contributers

James Fossdyke

Phil Aird-Mash

Kathryn Otto

Rachel O’Hare

Design & Production

Kate Woods

We step into spring in this month’s edition of The Rutland Magazine and have a jam-packed issue full of interviews, holiday suggestions and seasonal advice for the home.

We start this issue by meeting Grant and Nathan Worthington, the siblings behind the popular Aloha Foods Co in Stamford (p.12), then spend time with Irish actress Máiréad Tyers, who discusses her role in the superpower comedy series - Extraordinary - that has just landed on ITVX (p.18).

Boutique events venue, The Barnsdale in Oakham has recently transformed under the eyes of The Signet Collection. We take a look at the stunning revamped events space (p.48). We also meet Sam Sharman from The Millstone at Barnack, as he talks through his career and role as Head Chef at the popular gastropub, and shares his delicious recipe for pork belly with apple puree and sprouting broccoli (p.51).

Over in Travel, our Travel Insider shares tailor-made holidays the whole family can enjoy (p.57), we enjoy a beautiful Tuscan retreat (p.59) and visit a Mykonian oasis (p.62).

In Home, KLAFS & Guncast Swimming Pools look at bringing innovative wellness solutions into your own home (p.79), Outdoor Living at Gates advise on how to make the most of your garden this season (p.86), and we shine a light on Delcot, a time-honoured company creating the finest handcrafted furniture (p.84).

Also this month, Heidi Kjeldsen showcases a stunning Margit South Sea Pearl and Diamond Ring (p.23), we highlight why Stamford School is the perfect choice for your child’s secondary education (p.40) and we take a Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato for a spin (p.72).

There is something for the whole family to join this issue, so please enjoy.

Happy reading,

THE DAISY HERITAGE COLLECTION IN AMETHYST

Why Stamford School is the perfect choice for your child FOOD

The Barnsdale in Oakham THE

A welcoming gastropub in the heart of the village

A new design-led, adults-only 5-star lifestyle resort

The

of sauna bathing and swimming at home

A

My life ...

NATHAN & GRANT WORTHINGTON, FROM ALOHA FOODS CO

How would you describe yourself?

Nathan: I’m passionate when it comes to cooking. I like things done my way in the kitchen, which I’m sure my team would tell you. I’d describe myself as creative. I’m inventive with dishes, collaborating and pairing ingredients. Im also respectful as I believe that is very important in catering.

Grant: I love to challenge myself. My business is my true passion and I love to watch it grow. When I’m not at Aloha I love to travel and get inspiration from around the world to inject into Aloha.

Where is home? And work?

Nathan: I’m the Owner and Head Chef. I’m Stamford born and bred, which is why my brother and I thought it would be a great idea to open Aloha here in Stamford as we knew something was missing here when it comes to fresh food.

Grant: I live and work in Stamford, Lincolnshire but this year Aloha will take the road so watch this space!

What would you do to improve the area you live in?

Nathan: If I could improve anything about Stamford it would be the parking and congestion that Stamford deals with, I believe a second bridge would help the flow of Stamford at rush hour.

Grant: Stamford is the most beautiful town, however, I would improve the areas for tourism so we can allow more alfresco dining areas and pedestrian zones. Restaurants and bars in and around the meadows would go down a storm here.

What did you want to be when you were younger?

Nathan: I never saw myself being a chef or co-owner of a food business. I wanted to be a fireman but now I’m working with flames in another way which makes people happy. When I was younger my parents got

me a kitchen play set in which I used to sit for hours pretending to cook food, so I think that’s how it all came together.

Grant: David Attenborough, like many of us. In fact, I had the opportunity to meet him which was one of the greatest days of my life. Outside of Aloha, my passion lies in animals and travel.

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

Nathan: My favourite place to travel has to be Bali followed by Sri Lanka. I enjoy the variety of good food, fresh fish, glorious weather and the whole island life.

But for Christmas, it has to be somewhere nice and cosy like the Finch Arms in Hambleton, right next to the open fire.

Grant: I enjoy my time by the ocean, whether that’s local breaks or in more tropical climates like Tahiti. Locally, I think Rutland has some great hidden gems to discover. The best country pubs around, Rutland gives the Cotswolds a run for its money for sure.

What or who inspires you?

Nathan: My brother and my business partner inspire me when it comes to work. We get creative and come up with a million new ideas and get a buzz; whether that’s coming up

“ ” Grant: My business is my true passion and I love to watch it grow

“

” Nathan: I’m passionate when it comes to cooking... I’m inventive with dishes, collaborating and pairing ingredients

with new exciting weekly specials, new decor for the shop or even designs for our clothing rail.

Grant: My partner Lauren Crowe inspires me daily to always see the positives and never give up.

What was the last gift you gave someone?

Nathan: The last gift I gave was a fuet of salami to my dad, which I was hoping he was going to open and share. Maybe he’ll have kept some for the next time I visit…

Grant: My most recent gift was a watch to my brother. I think a watch is always a truly special gift for anyone.

Tell us a secret/fun fact?

Nathan: A secret that not many people know is that we make our own sauces and marinades in-store. Also, when we first opened Aloha we had a sofa down in the basement where I used to take a nap. I miss that sofa.

Grant: I actually went to university to study wildlife.

Who or what would you place in room 101?

Nathan: If I could place anything in room 101 it’ll be cucumber and watermelon.

Grant: Rude people and tomatoes. I’m not sure where this came from but it runs in my family, for some reason we all have beef with tomatoes.

Your mastermind subject?

Nathan: When it comes to pub quiz then the only thing I know is cooking.

Grant: If it couldn’t be Aloha it would have to be animals.

What’s been your biggest life lesson?

Nathan: I believe the whole setting up of Aloha has been a huge learning curve. I’ve made new friends that only want to see you do well and others call you a mate but would rather support McDonald’s.

Grant: Embrace failure as a stepping stone to success. It’s better to fail a few times to get where you want to be than to just stand still. alohafoodsco.com

NOTEBOOK

WORDS: CRAIG HOUGH

Burghley’s new adventure play area, Hide & Secrets, has made Burghley a must-visit destination for families. After welcoming thousands of young adventurers in its opening year, the extensive woodland play area promises more epic adventures in 2024. The hugely popular attraction is themed around William Cecil as the country’s first Chief Spymaster and features a series of fun-packed play zones that lead to the Hidden Towers burghley.co.uk

H

ide & Se c rets

What’s O n ?

24 MAR

Rutland Food & Drink Festival

Oakham Town Centre

The first Rutland Food and Drink Festival for 2024 will take place this March. Stalls inside Oakham Castle, in the Castle Grounds, on the Market Place and along the High Street will be offering a variety of food, drink, crafts and gifts.

oakhamcastle.org

31 MAR

Easter Egg Treasure Hunt Burghley House

Little ones will love hunting for clues hidden around the picturesque Sculpture Garden to solve the seasonal puzzle and claim an Easter Egg from Burghley's Easter Bunny. Grown-ups can challenge themselves too - tricky questions for adults to answer are included along the trail with the chance to win Afternoon Tea in The Orangery in a prize draw. burghley.co.uk

25 - 30 MAR

The Full Monty

The Curve, Leicester

This fast and funny play is still very much of our time, as again we are hit by a cost-of-living crisis. Gaz and his mates are down on their luck and feel they have been thrown on the scrap heap, but they are determined to fight back and bear a little more than they ever thought they would have to. As in the 1997 smash hit film, this brand-new production is a rollercoaster ride of ups and downs, laughs and heartbreak. curveonline.co.uk

6 - 7 APR

Spring Fine Food Market Burghley House

Shop and enjoy local produce in the stunning surroundings of the Chestnut and Stable Courtyards. A wide range of exhibitors will be here for you to discover serving up dishes from around the world and produce to take home including handmade cheese, soft and alcoholic beverages, luxury sweet treats and rare breed meats. burghley.co.uk

7 APR

Rutland Spring Half Marathon Barnsdale, Rutland Water

A beautiful spring half marathon course around Hambleton peninsula from Barnsdale at Rutland Water. This is the best time of year to experience the course, enjoy the race, experience the spring scenery and take in the atmosphere. therutlandmarathon.co.uk

11 - 13 APR

Unfortunate – The Untold Story of Ursula The Sea Witch

Birmingham Hippodrome

Fresh from complete sell-out runs at the Edinburgh Fringe and around the UK comes this critically acclaimed smash hit parody musical. Join everyone’s favourite Disney Diva, Ursula, as she gives her take on what really happened all those years ago under the sea. With an original hot pop soundtrack and trademark filthy humour, it’s time to take the plunge and dive into this year’s hottest night out. birminghamhippodrome.com

18 APR

Sir Tim Rice– My Life in Musicals: I Know Him So Well The Curve, Leicester

Sir Tim Rice, the multi-award-winning, internationally renowned lyricist, will reflect on his illustrious career at the heart of musical theatre, sharing anecdotes behind the songs – the hits and the misses along with stories of his life and live performances from the wonderful catalogue of songs that are synonymous with his name and that of his collaborators. Musical accompaniment will be from an array of some of the UK’s leading West End singers and musicians led by Musical Director Duncan Waugh. curveonline.co.uk

22 - 27 APR

Jesus Christ Superstar Birmingham Hippodrom

Choreographed by Drew McOnie (King Kong, Strictly Ballroom), with music and lyrics by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, Jesus Christ Superstar is set against the backdrop of an extraordinary series of events during the final weeks in the life of Jesus Christ, as seen through the eyes of Judas. Reflecting the rock roots that defined a generation, the legendary score includes I Don’t Know How to Love Him, Gethsemane and Superstar. birminghamhippodrome.com

E xtr a ord i na r y

Irish actress Máiréad Tyers discusses her new superpowered comedy series

Welcome to a world where everyone over the age of 18 develops a superpower. Everyone except for 25-year-old Jen, who is still waiting for her power to appear. Without a power, Jen (Máiréad Tyers) feels like she’s being left behind. Her insecurities aren’t helped by the fact that she’s stuck in a dead-end job, and her occasional hook-up, Luke, is a fly-boy who has no intention of committing. Luckily, Jen has her best friend, Carrie, whose endless positivity stops Jen from falling into a well of self-pity. They share a flat with Carrie’s long-term boyfriend, Kash, and a stray cat. Adrift in a big, confusing world – and armed with nothing but a bit of hope and a lot of desperation – Jen begins her journey to find her maybe-superpower.

Who is Jen?

Jen is a 25-year-old girl who’s living in London with her two friends Kash [Bilal Hasna] and Carrie [Sofia Oxenham]. She doesn’t really have a job or at least she doesn’t have a career lined up ahead of her. She’s living in a world where everyone has got powers but she’s one of the only people in the world who doesn’t have a power. So it’s a world in which at the age of 18, usually people get their powers. She, for whatever reason, hasn’t gotten

hers yet. Which gets her down, because not only that but she also has a family that aren’t necessarily very supportive and put a lot of pressure on her. And she’s also suffering with grief as well and trying to work her way through that. So she’s trying to navigate her way through a world where she is very much an outlier as well as just having to navigate everything that there is with being mid 20s and trying to find out where your life is going to go next.

What sort of person is she?

She’s someone who I think chooses to live in denial about a lot of things.

“She’s someone who I think chooses to live in denial about a lot of things. Which I can relate to.

”

Which I can relate to. She’s kind of selfdestructive a lot of the time, but also very humorous. Like, she likes having fun. And I think the relationship with her and Carrie, they balance each other out in that Carrie tries to keep her on the straight and narrow, whereas Jen encourages Carrie to lose herself a bit more and have a good time. She’s quite self-deprecating. But likes bringing lightness to every situation.

How much of an issue is it not having a power in this world where everyone has powers?

It is massive especially in this world where people can get jobs out of their powers. You know, it can be extremely useful. The opening sequence is really cool in the series, because you see Jen walking through London and just watching people use their powers — a woman lighting a cigarette with fire out of her finger and so on. Because she is quite self deprecating and disruptive to herself, she is able to do that more through wallowing in the fact that she doesn’t have a power. She does enjoy —

sometimes — the sadness of that and doesn’t really do much about it. But that’s what the series is — it’s her deciding to take a stance and go, ‘Right, I’m going to get my power now. It’s time.’

What is the set up for Extraordinary with regard to how, when and why people get powers?

That’s what they are trying to discover during the series. Kash and Carrie take it upon themselves to help her out and be like, ‘Right, let’s Google and find out what we can do.’

They go through a series of different trials like trying to shock her in to getting a power. So if you’re in a state of shock, or in a state of pain, or just some sort of fright, then a power might come about.

The other option is you can go to a clinic where you have to pay a fortune. So there are options that you can go down but usually people have it by the age of 25: Jen’s very unusual. And then of course, the thing is in this world every time you meet someone, they’ll say, ‘Oh, what’s your power?’ Or every time you go for a job or interview, you put down on the application what your power is. So it’s an everyday occurrence that she’s being reminded of the fact that she doesn’t have one.

How bad is it for Jen?

She definitely does have mental health issues. That’s from a collection of different things. It’s discovered in the first episode that her Dad has died. But she still has a relationship with him through her best friend Carrie, who can channel the dead. So she speaks to her dad very regularly. Her dad died when she was quite young and he was a massive support to her. Then what happened is her mother remarried very quickly and she’s got a half sister from her mother’s new relationship,

who gets serious enjoyment out of plaguing Jen for everything she can’t do. Andy, the halfsister is the perfect child in every sense. That’s another aspect that’s getting her down.

No spoilers but what is the broad arc of Jen’s story throughout the series?

This is Jen’s quest to get her power. This is her deciding to finally do something about it. She’s described by other characters as being a procrastinator: this is the first time where other people have rallied around her to say, ‘Come on, let’s go and do this for you. It’s time now. Because it is kind of getting you down. And it is something that you don’t have to live without, so let’s do something about it.’ I think she likes telling people, ‘Oh, I don’t need one. Like, I really don’t care.’ But she absolutely does. It’s making her feel useless, the fact she doesn’t have a power.

Other than the superpowers is the world of Extraordinary actually very ordinary? Completely. 100%. It’s a very believeable world: once you accept the fact that there’s powers here, it’s couldn’t be more the same. It looks like East London; it is East London. It’s just

“I don’t often laugh out loud reading scripts or reading books or anything like that but this was laugh out loud

instead of Uber cars there are Uber flies where you can get on someone’s back and like to wherever you’re going to. Everything’s the same; the only thing that’s different is that everyone wants to know what your power is. So when you go on a date, you say what your power; on your dating profile, it’ll have your power.

claws. I don’t even know what you would do with them but that would be cool

Does Extraordinary have something to say beyond comedy and entertainment?

What did you make of the scripts?

Hilarious. I don’t often laugh out loud reading scripts or reading books or anything like that but this was laugh out loud. Obviously, the scripts go through many edits, but every time that we’d get a script change there would still be new material that was just as funny.

If you could have your own power what would you go for?

The cast have had many chats about it! Mine would be teleportation, just so that I could be on time to things because I never am. There’s definitely cooler ones like I remember there was one power that ended up getting cut which was there was a man that had lobster

100%. I think Emma’s done a really great job of describing the feeling of being in your mid 20s and having left institutions that you’ve been in for your whole life, be it school or uni. It’s leaving those and then having the whole world ahead of you and thinking, ‘Oh god, okay, what do I do next?’ Which can be such an isolating experience. And then I think when you pile feeling useless on top of that, because you don’t have a power, which again, is I think something that a lot of mid 20s people can relate to because there’s a massive divide between what you feel like you should be doing versus what you want to be doing and the money… there’s so many different elements. Emma’s done a great job of describing these characters and pinpointing that exact time in their lives. The full series is available now on ITVX

T ime l ess E leg a nce

Whether you seek an engagement ring, a beautiful necklace or a gift for that special someone, Heidi Kjeldsen at the Mill Street Showroom in Oakham has you covered. The team can help with anything from repairs and valuations to bespoke commissions. You can also discover a wonderful collection of fine jewellery pieces that include this glamourous Margit South Sea Pearl and Diamond Ring. £7,000, heidikjeldsen.co.uk

Kids Clothes m ade for P L AY

W hether you are hitting the slopes or embracing the Winter period, Polarn O. Pyret (or PO.P for short), have got you covered with its collection of expertly designed outerwear. PO.P’s winter heroes will get little ones geared up for all weathers so they can embrace the elements in style, come rain, wind and even snow.

First up is the Padded Waterproof Coat, coming in array of colours to suit any style. The functional yet stylish waterproof coat promises to fend off the cold and wet weather to keep little ones aged 2-10 dry and cosy. The coat is 100% waterproof so children can continue to play outside even in torrential rain. The coat has been made with hard wearing recycled polyester fabric with lightweight cosy padding to keep the cold out.

Match this with PO.Ps Padded Trousers, perfect for any winter adventures at home or abroad. They are 100% waterproof, so no rainstorm will disturb outdoor play. They have been cleverly created with quality durable and breathable fabric to allow families to make the most of every day. These children’s trousers are nylon lined, with fleece at the seat for extra protection against the cold when sitting down. Designed to last for many ski trips to come, they have reinforced knees, seat and leg cuffs with practical snow locks.

Thermals are a must for any cold climate. Polarn O.Pyret’s bestselling Thermal Merino wool layers come in mixture of vibrant colours as well as some muted taupe tones. They have been designed to help children regulate body temperature by trapping in warmth yet wicking away any unwanted cold moisture. They are made from cruelty-free

quality merino wool, perfect for those cosy days at home or for layering up on an epic adventure. Finally, no outfit is complete without accessories. PO.P’s epic range of hats include cosy bobble hats to striped beanies with many different designs, there is something for every little one to keep heads all warm and toasty this winter. And like most items by PO.P, they are made from the best organic cotton. The kids gloves range includes magic mittens for little ones to high tech waterproof gloves for kids. Both have been designed to keep little hands warms and dry. Another favourite is PO.P’s fleece lined or merino wool snoods for the ultimate convenience. Built to last, PO.P accessories are super high quality and can be handed down through many generations, so they can be loved again and again.

polarnopyret.co.uk

B ea c on o f

Wellness Health, Beauty S eren i ty

One of Cornwall’s top hotels is celebrating its tenth birthday in style, with the launch of the Decadence Spa Day experience. Guests can enjoy use of the Thermal Journey; an adult only area inclusive of a hydrotherapy pool, Cornish salt steam room, Swedish sauna and jacuzzi. Following this, visitors will indulge in one of the Headland’s signature Afternoon Tea’s in the Spa Lounge served with a glass of fizz before being whisked away for an exclusive anniversary 115 minute head-to-toe signature treatment. headlandhotel.co.uk

NEW FROM CHANEL

Chanel Eau Fraîche Eau de Parfum; 50 ML, RRP £99 | 100ml, RRP £136

The Chanel Eau Fraîche Eau de Parfum now comes in a spray format for a more generous use, with an effortless application on skin or clothing. The citron accord has become exhilarating without losing its original juiciness; the jasmine is richer and more intense; and the teak wood accord reveals a more ambery facet, giving it a certain elegance.

Chanel Chance Perfumed Hand Creams; RRP £65

This limited-edition set contains three hand creams that are delicately infused with the floral notes of three Chanel fragrances: Chance, Chance Eau Fraîche, and Chance Eau Tendre.

Cheerful and sparkling Chance Eau Fraîche features amplified zesty citron accents, which illuminate its jasmine heart, before an elegant and vibrant woody note settles little by little on the skin. chanel.com

Health Beauty &

Botox In A Bottle

The Germaine de Capuccini Retinol Bio RDS complex safely delivers a slow release of retinol into the dermis and epidermis. This unique slow release technology allows Retinage Filler to work for hours after application, renewing the cells and stimulating natural collagen production. 50ml, £120.25

germaine-de-capuccini.co.uk

Good Enough To Eat

Deliciously decadent with a sprinkle of sweetness, Scherzo is the gourmand fragrance for a sophisticated interior sugar high. No matter the season, a scented candle Is the perfect way to relax, recalibrate or set the scene in your home. Drawing on the success of its bestselling fragrance, Miller Harris Scherzo scent is now available as a scented candle. With a burn time of up to 50 hours, intoxicating and joyful, the Scherzo Scented Candle offers an intensely vibrant scent, full of colour, depth, and a rush of sweetness. The fragrance captures a multitude of blooms: dark red rose, clouds of peony, sunny yellow narcissus and crisp white pittosporum. 240g, £75, millerharris.com

Augustinus Bader Duo

Launching 21st February from Augustinus Bader is a deeply nourishing shampoo and conditioner duo to restore dry, damaged hair and lock in lasting hydration, for irresistibly soft, smooth and glossy locks with volume.

Powered by TFC8®. 200ml, £43 augustinusbader.com

Soothing Scents For Small Mindful Moments

Scent and emotion has always been interlinked; a good fragrance isn’t just about the smell but also how it makes you feel and the imprint it leaves. Fragrance has the ability to support mental wellbeing and with stress at an all-time high, people are looking for ways to restore balance. Soothing scents with notes like Bergamot, Sandalwood and Jasmine will uplift, calm and relax, creating mini mindful moments each morning.

For a Fresh Start…

Evoking the golden shades of dawn rolling over the Tuscan hills, Mia Alba Mistica by Fabbrica Della Musa is a reminder that each day starts fresh, with unlimited possibilities. It opens with bright notes of peach and mandarin before revealing a floral heart of Jasmin, Neroli and Ylang ylang. Fresh notes of Lavender and Sage evoke newness and the beauty of growth, while a dry down of peppery Nutmeg, Patchouli and Cedarwood rounds out the fruity perfume.

Fabbrica Della Musa: Fabbrica Della Musa Mia Alba Mistica, £195 (100ml), harrods.com

For Beautiful Balance

Discipline Sport His for Her is designed for the modern goalorientated woman. Notes of bergamot, watermint and mandarin combine with juniper, Swedish spruce, and violet leaves to evoke the fresh, wooded and relaxing Swedish landscape. His For Her is an empowering scent that helps lift and motivate the wearer to be the best that they can be.

Ron Dorff: Ron Dorff Discipline Sport His for Her, (100ml), £95.00, debenhams.com

For A Brighter Day

Vertigo 236 is light and fresh eau de parfum that sees lemon and mint leaves brought together with the woody dry-down of patchouli, vetiver and musk for an uplifting, long-lasting and luxurious scent.

Maison Noir: Maison Noir Vertigo £115 (50ml), harrods.com

For Inner Strength

A cosmopolitan and calming scent, blending Lemon, Lavender and Pink Pepper with the enigmatic note of iris and its oral woody accents. Royal Oak accord, symbol of strength and passion, leads the way to an exuberant trail of enchanting noble woods combined with the irresistible aroma of amber and vanilla.

Hackett Absolute: Hackett Absolute Eau de Parfum 100ml £65, boots.com

For Tranquil Times

Hydra takes you on a trip in search of peace and quiet on an idyllic Greek island. Created by perfumer Ilias Ermednidis, this blissful scent offers simplicity, peace, tranquillity and beauty, opening with the fresh fruit that depict the paradisiacal white island. The warm air, and the bright sun that carry the distinctive jasmine and hyacinth which is rounded with the simplistic strength of white musk.

Contes De Parfums: Contes De Parfum Hydra £195 (100ml), harrods.com

Unveiling the Spectrum of Skin Cancer: From Coco Chanel’s Tan to Sun-Safe Strategies

Mr Nakul Patel is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon specialising in Skin Cancer, Breast Reconstruction and Cosmetic Surgery at the Nuffield Health Leicester Hospital

In the radiant summer of 1923, amidst the azure waves of the French Riviera, Coco Chanel disembarked from a ship, her skin aglow with a bronze hue—a serendipitous effect of leisurely days basking in the Mediterranean sun. Little did she know that her inadvertent tan would spark a trend that transcended fashion, influencing beauty standards for generations to come.

Yet, lurking beneath the allure of sun-kissed skin lies a perilous reality: skin cancer. A silent adversary, its prevalence surges annually, silently claiming many lives worldwide. Despite its gravity, the imperative of awareness, prevention, and early detection often remains overlooked.

Understanding the Types of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer manifests in various forms, each presenting unique characteristics and challenges. Basal cell carcinoma, the most common type, appears as pearly or waxy bumps, frequently on sun-exposed areas like the face and neck.

Squamous cell carcinoma, another prevalent variant, manifests as red nodules or scaly lesions, or ulcerated areas and are often on the ears, hands, or arms. Melanoma, though less common, is the most perilous, capable of masquerading as benign moles or dark spots and sometimes even as skin coloured lesions, lurking within the layers of the skin.

Recognising the Signs: The ABCDEs of Melanoma

Getting acquainted with the ABCDEs of melanoma is vital, with particular emphasis on “E” for Evolution. A mole that undergoes changes or evolves warrants immediate assessment by a specialist.

• Asymmetry: If one half of the mole doesn’t match the other half.

• Border: Irregular, blurred, or jagged edges.

• Colour: Uneven colouring or multiple shades within the mole.

• Diameter: Moles larger than the size of a pencil rubber (6mm).

• Evolving: Changes in size, shape, or colour over time.

When to Seek Help: Early Intervention is Key

Amidst the potential threats, recognition is paramount. Any changes in the size, shape, or colour of moles, persistent sores, or unusual growths should prompt immediate action. Itching, tenderness, or bleeding should raise immediate red flags, urging swift consultation with a skin cancer specialist. Early detection vastly improves treatment outcomes, underscoring the urgency of timely intervention.

Treatment Options and Prevention: Navigating the Path to Wellness

Thankfully, advancements in medical science offer an array of treatment options – the most common being surgical excision. However, topical treatments, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immunotherapy can also be helpful in many cases.

Sun Protection and Prevention

Prevention is the cornerstone of defence against skin cancer. Adopting sun-safe practices can substantially mitigate the risk of developing the disease.

Here are some key tips for effective sun protection:

#1 - Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to all exposed skin, reapplying every two hours or more frequently if swimming or sweating.

#2 - Seek Shade: Limit direct sunlight exposure, especially during peak hours between 10 am and 4 pm, Find refuge under trees, umbrellas, or awnings when outdoors.

#3 - Wear Protective Clothing: Opt for lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, trousers, and wide-brimmed hats to shield skin from UV radiation. Donning sunglasses with UV protection is also essential for eye health.

#4 - Avoid Tanning Beds: Refrain from using tanning beds, as their UV radiation significantly elevates skin cancer risk. Explore safer alternatives such as sunless tanning products or spray tans.

#5 - Perform Regular Skin Checks: Conduct monthly self-examinations to monitor for changes or abnormalities.

Reflecting on History and Embracing a Sun-Safe Future

As we reflect on Coco Chanel’s inadvertent influence on sun tanning and the subsequent rise in skin cancer cases, it becomes evident that the pursuit of beauty should never compromise health. With skin cancer being a prevalent and potentially fatal condition, prioritising sun-safe practices and early detection is imperative.

If you detect any concerns or observe suspicious changes to your moles or develop new skin lesions, take prompt action and schedule a consultation with a skin cancer specialist.

Nakul Gamanlal Patel BSc (Hons) MBBS (Lond) FRCS (Plast)

Mr Nakul Patel is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon specialising in Skin Cancer, Breast Reconstruction and Cosmetic Surgery. He is the Chair of the Specialist Skin Cancer Multi-Disciplinary Team at the University Hospitals of Leicester.

If you would like to find out more about Mr Nakul Patel, he has a private practice at Nuffield Hospital in Leicester. If you have any concerning lumps, bumps or moles please contact our in-house team on 0300 131 1416 or email leicester.enquiry@nuffieldhealth.com

Follow us on social media ‘nuffieldhealthleicesterhospital’

Family Aw ay Fr o m H ome C an i ne C omfo r t

The perfect companion for dog-friendly adventures,

Charley Chau’s new Dog Travel Bed Collection includes a Dog Travel Pad and Travel Burrow Bag for those that love to sleep under blankets. Both work brilliantly for dogs that demand to be as comfortable as caninely possible wherever they are, be it in the car, away on a weekend adventure, or a leisurely lunch out with friends. charleychau.com

Family news

WORDS: CRAIG HOUGH

Winter Warmers

Kendamil, the pioneering, fast growing and uniquely British brand that is leading the way in the baby formula industry, has announced that its range of porridges and bakes are now more readily available to parents about to embark on the weaning journey. The delicious and nutritious collection of baby rice, porridges and savoury bakes can now be found in Boots and Sainsbury’s stores across the country – serving up the perfect winter warmers for little ones this season.

Like its advanced infant formula, Kendamil’s Classic and Organic weaning range contains absolutely no GMOs or palm oil. The range is also certified vegetarian and contains valuable nutrients such as fibre, vitamins, and minerals. There’s also absolutely no added sugar; all of the sugars found in Kendamil porridges naturally occur from the real fruit and vegetables. RRP £12.50 (for a pack of 5 / 25 servings), kendamil.com

ONE STEP BEYOND

Rock Stepper Play Mat is a brand new play thing for little ones that has added play value with flash cards and an accompanying app (set to launch soon). It grows with your baby and the reverse side is in muted shades and can be used as an exercise mat or soft covering for a playroom.

RRP £195, rockstepper.com

The New Aptica XT

Premium Italian baby wellness specialists, Inglesina has launched the new, upgraded Aptica XT. It’s designed to handle any terrain and comes with a new, padded stroller seat offering a lighter, double breathable mesh layer to enable air circulation in the summer, and a padded Comfort Cover to protect against the cold in the winter. The new Aptica XT also boasts a revolutionary and large carrycot, a Welcome Pad mattress and an inclining base and a new colourway. RRP £1695.00, Iinglesina.uk

STAY TOASTIE

High-end British eco childrenswear brand Toastie Kids has a range of coats to keep little ones warm this winter.

Toastie Kids

3-in-1 Raincoat: Northern Star

The 3-in-1 raincoat comes complete with a recycled down inner bomber jacket in ultra soft sherpa finish and an easy grip outer raincoat that can be worn separately or zipped together for extra warmth and protection from the elements. The coat features a silk soft sleeve lining for ease taking the coat on and off and is fully waterproof.

RRP £145

Toastie Kids

Quilted Onesie: Floral Nightscape

The Cloud Onesie is made using sustainable eco-down fill; breathable, light and soft. With easy grip double zip feature, ultra cosy sherpa lined hood and cute animal ears this pramsuit will become your baby’s best loved cold weather snowsuit companion.

RRP £85

Toastie Kids Quilted Onesie: Ink Navy

The Cloud Onesie is also made using sustainable eco-down fill, which mimics the qualities found in genuine down; thermoregulating, breathable, light and soft.

RRP £79.00

sorenshouse.co.uk

Add some Bling to the Slopes this Ski Season

Skiers and Boarders rejoice! Bling2o has unveiled its Winter collection that will ensure skiers and boarders aged 3-16 will be the envy of the slopes, on and off-piste, thanks to an array of rhinestones, sparkles and spikes, which adorn this striking collection!

Each pair of goggles includes a compatible adjustable strap to fit all helmets, a double layer foam for the ultimate comfort, REVO lens, with UV protection and an anti-fog coating, so vision is crystal clear as kids ages 3-16 bomb or snow-plough down the mountain. The Bling2o Ski Goggle collection features five striking styles including ‘Rainbow White Ice’ and ‘Blue Green Spike’.

To complete the slope-side look, Bling2o is thrilled to also launch its collection of Winter Hats. Featuring five fabulous designs including a blue beanie hat and four super cool bobble hats. bling2o.co.uk

MUM & YOU

This little stick of wonder is a must for anyone having a baby in the winter months! Mum & You’s Face The Day Stick has been lovingly designed by mums for mums to protect baby’s skin from wind, drizzle and even dribble. It quickly provides an effective barrier against the elements and relieves sore and irritated skin. Baby’s skin is left feeling soft and moisturised, perfect for combatting the lack of moisture in the cold air. mumandyou.com

Un l ock i ng O ppo r tunitie s

Why Stamford School is the perfect choice for your child’s secondary education

Parents of children in Year 6 will have received their secondary school places from their County Councils on 1st March. For those that did not receive their secondary school of choice, the prospect of an independent education at Stamford School could be an inviting alternative. Here are the top ten reasons why considering Stamford School might be the right move for you and your child.

#1 - Outstanding Pastoral Provision

At Stamford School, the commitment to providing a nurturing and supportive environment goes beyond academics. The school takes pride in its outstanding pastoral care system, ensuring that each child feels valued, supported, and understood. The dedicated pastoral team is attuned to the unique needs of every student, fostering a sense of security and emotional wellbeing. In addition to this, the pastoral curriculum provides a modern PSHE programme that is challenging, informative and inspirational.

#2 - Ambitious Academic Curriculum

Stamford School distinguishes itself by offering an ambitious academic curriculum. The emphasis is on cultivating a love for learning, encouraging intellectual curiosity, and developing critical thinking skills. The curriculum is varied with new courses added for GCSE this year including Creative I Media and Music Technology as well as 32 different A Level and BTEC options at the state-of-the-art Sixth Form. One of Stamford’s core values is to embrace innovation which is why every student, from Year 3 upwards, is issued with a Microsoft Surface Pro 7+. This means each student is equipped with the right technology to enable them to get the best out of their classroom learning.

#3 - Rounded and Grounded Students

Stamford School’s ethos centres around developing children who are not only academically proficient but also well-rounded, grounded individuals. Through a holistic approach to education, the school strives to instil values, integrity, and a sense of responsibility in its students. This focus on

character-building ensures that Stamfordians are equipped to face the challenges of the future with resilience and confidence.

#4 - Sport at Stamford

Sport plays a crucial role in the development of physical fitness, teamwork, and leadership skills. Stamford School places a strong emphasis on sports, providing students with a wide range of opportunities to participate in various athletic activities. Whether it is competitive team sports or individual pursuits, the school encourages a healthy and active lifestyle. This in turn develops children with both a sense of belonging and pride, forming emotional resilience, as well as fostering a healthy attitude to physical activity. With 17 sports on offer, from table tennis to touch rugby, basketball to badminton and fencing to football, there is something for every student.

#5 - Beyond the Classroom

Part of Stamford’s core aim is to offer students new experiences and challenges beyond the classroom. Educational trips, experiences and field work extend learning opportunities and give students a working understanding of the subject they are studying in greater depth. In Geography, for example, field trips can offer practical examples of coastal or urban environments with the Iceland trip a popular destination; in outdoor learning our trip to Aviemore in the Cairngorms for winter mountaineering is a particular highlight. These activities are given great value at Stamford, bringing the curriculum to life. A broad and varied programme of activities gives students a chance to experience their subjects beyond the classroom. Seeing first hand examples in other cultures can lead to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the relevance of their studies.

#6 - Co-Curricular

Co-curricular activities are deeply embedded in life at Stamford School. The belief is that they build inclusivity, community and help students to develop important life skills such as leadership, confidence, and teamwork. Regarded as an essential part of a child’s schooling, there is truly something for everyone. From sporting opportunities, outdoor adventures with Bushcraft and Duke of Edinburgh, along with the Combined Cadet Force, performing arts, Music and theatre, there is something to suit every child’s interests. The extensive programme of over 400 hundred activities and clubs offers young people the opportunity to try new things and unlock their team spirit.

#7 - Music and Drama

Music and Performing Arts at Stamford showcase the importance of creativity and self-expression at the School. Stamford offers a vibrant arts programme, providing students with opportunities to explore their talents and passions in a supportive and encouraging environment. Regular performances and events showcase the

diverse artistic abilities of Stamford students. With over 40 co-curricular music groups and clubs, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

#8 - Personal Learning Experience

Recognising the importance of a personal learning experience, Stamford School maintains small class sizes to facilitate effective learning and meaningful teacher-student interactions.

Additionally, the school is committed to inclusivity, offering personal and tailored support to help all students achieve academic success. Stamford understands that some students may need additional academic support and guidance in their learning, regardless of whether they have a related diagnosis or not. Stamford School’s Learning Development team helps to boost self-esteem and build academic competence so that students can become confident, independent learners able to achieve their full potential. With an experienced Learning Development team, there is bespoke support for each student, depending on their need.

#9 - Extensive facilities

Stamford School takes pride in its state-of-the-art facilities, providing students with an environment conducive to both academic and co-curricular pursuits. From modern classrooms equipped with the latest technology to extensive sports facilities and well-stocked libraries, Stamford School ensures

that every aspect of a student’s educational journey is supported by excellent amenities. The school is proud of its strong links to the local community, with buildings threading through the town of Stamford, whilst retaining 55 acres of grounds including Astroturf pitches, cricket nets, netball courts, rugby pitches, two swimming pools and specifically tailored outdoor learning facilities.

Stamford School understands the logistical challenges that families may face; To alleviate this, the school provides private bus services from around the local area, ensuring that students have a convenient and safe mode of transportation to and from school.

#10 - Support for Life - the Old Stamfordian Community

The support network at Stamford School extends far beyond the years spent within its walls. The Old Stamfordian community comprises alumni from various walks of life, who form a network of mentors, advisors, and supporters. This interconnected community provides invaluable support for students, even as they transition into adulthood and beyond.

Choosing the right secondary school is a significant decision for both parents and students. Stamford School extends a warm invitation to all families considering an independent education. Personal tours and visits are available, offering a firsthand experience of the school’s ethos, facilities, and vibrant atmosphere. Call today to schedule your visit and discover the exceptional educational opportunities that await your child at Stamford School.

stamfordschools.org.uk

+44 (0)1780 750311

A New Chapter for a Rutland Classic

A New Chapter for a Rutland Classic

A New Chapter for a Rutland Classic

A New Chapter for a Rutland Classic

The latest addition to The Signet Collection, The Barnsdale has a fabulous new look, while honouring its rich history and local area.

A New Chapter for a Rutland Classic

The latest addition to The Signet Collection, The Barnsdale has a fabulous new look, while honouring its rich history and local area.

The latest addition to The Signet Collection, The Barnsdale has a fabulous new look, while honouring its rich history and local area.

The latest addition to The Signet Collection, The Barnsdale has a fabulous new look, while honouring its rich history and local area.

The latest addition to The Signet Collection, The Barnsdale has a fabulous new look, while honouring its rich history and local area.

Laid-back Luxury

Laid-back Luxury

Laid-back Luxury

Laid-back Luxury

A refined yet relaxed boutique hotel, on the edge of Rutland Water, The Barnsdale is where quirky British sensibility meets authentic luxury. We blend the old with the new, the refined with the comfortable, and the local with the worldly.

A refined yet relaxed boutique hotel, on the edge of Rutland Water, The Barnsdale is where quirky British sensibility meets authentic luxury. We blend the old with the new, the refined with the comfortable, and the local with the worldly.

Laid-back Luxury

A refined yet relaxed boutique hotel, on the edge of Rutland Water, The Barnsdale is where quirky British sensibility meets authentic luxury. We blend the old with the new, the refined with the comfortable, and the local with the worldly.

A refined yet relaxed boutique hotel, on the edge of Rutland Water, The Barnsdale is where quirky British sensibility meets authentic luxury. We blend the old with the new, the refined with the comfortable, and the local with the worldly.

Discover The Barnsdale

Discover The Barnsdale

A refined yet relaxed boutique hotel, on the edge of Rutland Water, The Barnsdale is where quirky British sensibility meets authentic luxury. We blend the old with the new, the refined with the comfortable, and the local with the worldly.

Discover The Barnsdale

Discover The Barnsdale

With 46 individually-styled bedrooms oozing with playful colours and textures, our stunning new brasserie 1760 and plenty of breath-taking spaces inside and out, The Barnsdale is the perfect place to relax and escape.

With 46 individually-styled bedrooms oozing with playful colours and textures, our stunning new brasserie 1760 and plenty of breath-taking spaces inside and out, The Barnsdale is the perfect place to relax and escape.

Discover The Barnsdale

With 46 individually-styled bedrooms oozing with playful colours and textures, our stunning new brasserie 1760 and plenty of breath-taking spaces inside and out, The Barnsdale is the perfect place to relax and escape.

With 46 individually-styled bedrooms oozing with playful colours and textures, our stunning new brasserie 1760 and plenty of breath-taking spaces inside and out, The Barnsdale is the perfect place to relax and escape.

Stay with us on a Sunday night and your food and drink is included! See website for details.

Stay with us on a Sunday night and your food and drink is included! See website for details.

Stay with us on a Sunday night and your food and drink is included! See website for details.

Stay with us on a Sunday night and your food and drink is included! See website for details.

With 46 individually-styled bedrooms oozing with playful colours and textures, our stunning new brasserie 1760 and plenty of breath-taking spaces inside and out, The Barnsdale is the perfect place to relax and escape.

The Avenue, Exton, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 8AH

The Avenue, Exton, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 8AH www.barnsdalerutland.com | reception@barnsdalerutland.com

Stay with us on a Sunday night and your food and drink is included! See website for details.

www.barnsdalerutland.com | reception@barnsdalerutland.com

Exton, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 8AH www.barnsdalerutland.com

01572 724678

01572 724678

01572

The Avenue, Exton, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 8AH

Food Drink S tati o n L ib a tio n

Happy hour just got swankier with the new Jonathan Adler Bond bar. A warm, honey-hued pieced mappa wood cabinet floats between two clear acrylic panels with matching oversized pulls. Inside, an abundance of drawers and shelves are designed to stash and stow decanters and barware, while a hinged top compartment pulls down to double as a mixing surface. uk.jonathanadler.com

Food & Drink news

WORDS: CRAIG HOUGH

Three Wines for Spring

Spring is a time for new beginnings and special moments and what better way to celebrate than with a glass of Jansz Tasmania Vintage Rosé 2017, Pewsey Vale Riesling 2021 or Yalumba Galway Vintage Shiraz 2021. Each of these wines embodies the essence of their respective regions: the crispness of Tasmania, the purity of Eden Valley and the perfect blend of spice from the Barossa Valley. londonendwines.com

Côte at Home Unveil Alpine Menu

Côte restaurants have unveiled their luxurious taste of the ski season specially designed by Gordon Ramsay’s former executive chef Steve Allen.

The indulgent Alpine features the seasonal favourite Tartiflette, one of the most loved après-ski dishes that is a combination of Reblochon and Comté cheese, smoked bacon lardons, sliced potatoes and caramelised onions served with a crunchy sourdough baguette.

Steve said: “Our much-anticipated Alpine collection is back for another year and we’re delighted to share some new dishes with our guests, alongside loved old favourites. Our Tartiflette Luxe Menu, Cheese Fondue and Alpine Chocolat Chaud (with a splash of Grand Marnier, if you wish!) promise to banish the winter blues and bring the cosiness of après ski tradition to your own home.” coteathome.co.uk

THE FRESH ALTERNATIVE

Fresh milk tastes better; the same is true for Oato. This original oat milk is creamy and fresh, produced to barista-grade standards for luscious coffee that doesn't split.

Fresh Oato is made in Lancashire using 100% British Oats and filtered Lake District water and can be delivered directly to your doorstep through the beloved British tradition of established milk rounds. oato.co.uk

Award-winning garden centre in a stunning rural location

Visit us to be inspired by one of the UK’s most comprehensive ranges of garden furniture, barbecues and accessories, water features and gorgeous garden ornaments. We have everything you need to make your garden come to life ready for that picture perfect summer.

THE BARNSDALE

In the heart of Rutland, overlooking the picturesque Rutland Water, The Barnsdale has undergone a transformation under the eye of The Signet Collection. This boutique events barn, now under new management, promises to be the region's go-to venue for sophisticated gatherings, with its elegant design and capacity to host up to 180 people.

The Signet Collection's takeover marks a significant chapter in The Barnsdale's history. Known for their commitment to creating unique and memorable spaces, The Signet Collection has brought a fresh perspective to this Rutland gem. The combination of their expertise and the idyllic setting creates a venue that seamlessly blends luxury and nature.

Hector Ross is the owner of The Signet Collection (The Mitre Hampton Court and The Retreat Elcot Park) has commented, “Rutland is one of England’s hidden gems and we feel very lucky to now have a boutique hotel and events venue in this small but mighty county.”

What sets The Barnsdale apart is its boutique approach to events. This intimate venue allows for personalised experiences, ensuring that each gathering is distinctive and tailored to the preferences of its guests. Whether it's a wedding celebration, corporate event, or a special occasion, The Barnsdale provides an exclusive ambience that captivates.

At the helm of the venue's aesthetic transformation is Ross and Ross Consultancy, Samantha Ross, Hector’s wife has been the design lead throughout the entire Barnsdale renovation. Renowned for their innovative design concepts, they have curated a space that harmonises with the surrounding natural beauty. The result is a perfect marriage of contemporary elegance and rustic charm, creating an inviting atmosphere for guests to revel in.

Strategically located by Rutland Water, The Barnsdale boasts not only stunning views but also the opportunity for unique outdoor experiences. Guests can enjoy the beauty of nature while celebrating within the stylish confines of the barn. This symbiotic relationship between interior and exterior spaces elevates The Barnsdale to a level beyond traditional event venues.

The capacity to host up to 180 people positions The Barnsdale as a versatile space, accommodating both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations. This flexibility ensures that the venue caters to a diverse range of events, from grand weddings to exclusive corporate functions, cementing its status as a premier destination in Rutland.

In conclusion, The Barnsdale, under The Signet Collection's meticulous care and guided by Ross and Ross's visionary design, has emerged as Rutland's newest crown jewel. Its idyllic location, boutique charm, and capacity for diverse events make it a standout choice for those seeking an exceptional

and personalised experience. As The Barnsdale opens its doors, it invites you to step into a world where sophistication meets nature, promising unforgettable moments in the heart of Rutland. barnsdalerutland.com

FRIENDS OF THE SIGNET COLLECTION:

Amanda Forman Photography

Lace & Pearl Bridal

Lola Rose Venue Dressing

Love Life Eat Cake

Inviting Writing

Georgia Joy Flowers

Moss & Bloom

MUA Emmmzzy Beauty

Etta Lingerie

Harriet Flather Musician

CHEF’S RECIPE

SAM SHARMAN, HEAD CHEF AT THE MILLSTONE @BARNACK

Ialways had a passion for food from a very young age, I started working in kitchens from the age of 13 at a local Italian restaurant in my home village, and from there I left secondary school and joined the Royal Navy as a chef. Such a diverse culinary experience. I have cooked anywhere from in the Mojave Desert, to onboard a warship and being the Second Sea Lord’s personal chef. Cooking for parties of 4, to catering for 4000 people 3 meals a day. Upon leaving the navy I searched for premises with accolades and ended up at the Bull and Swan in Stamford (1 rosette) and the William Cecil (2 rosettes).

To broaden my knowledge, I searched for a restaurant allowing me to do “Stage” which is unpaid work, in return for knowledge. I started this journey at Hambleton Hall and was lucky enough to enter the kitchen of Midsummer House in Cambridge. The knowledge and experience I received from these inspirational restaurants have helped me get to where I am today.

Deciding that a gastro pub would suit my lifestyle more with a young family I then went to work at The White Hart in Ufford before having the privilege of opening The Millstone at Barnack alongside owners Paul and Laura. It has been an amazing feeling starting from a shell and being able to build a business.

We are based in the charming village of Barnack, just a short detour from the A1 and only 3 miles from Stamford and Burghley Estate. We are a family-friendly and dog friendly gastropub. The atmosphere in the pub is exactly what it says on the tin, we aim for a warm cozy country pub feel, amazing in the winter with the real log fires and even

better in the summer! A beautiful courtyard with an outdoor bar that’s a suntrap from the minute the sun rises until it sets, ideal for walkers and cyclists enjoying the Hills and Holes Nature Reserve and a relaxing drink with al fresco dining.

In my current position as Head Chef at The Millstone, I’d say we serve fantastic pub grub with a haute cuisine twist, cooking for anything from birthdays, weddings, tasting menus, Afternoon Tea to standard a la carte, we really try to cater for the mass.

The menus are created through inspiration from my travels and general life. I find inspiration anywhere; from customer feedback and previous dishes to tried and tested sellers! Being a gastropub, we like to keep a pub feel with a great fish and chips, a steak of the day and of course, a burger. These will always continue to sell really well. A dish we are bringing back on our new spring menu is probably the best selling dish ever at The Millstone, which is tandoori monkfish, saag aloo, onion baji crisp, with minted tomato and ten onion salad.

CHEF’S RECIPE

While doing stage on leave from the navy I worked at a pub in Peterborough, who served a dish similar to this that uses my all time favourite protein and classic flavour combinations.

Pork Belly with Apple Puree and Sprouting Broccoli

INGREDIENTS

SERVES

6 PEOPLE:

PORK BELLY

1.5kg pork belly, skin and bones left on 50g of sea salt

3 medium onions, peeled and roughly diced

2 carrots, peeled and roughly diced

4 celery sticks, washed and roughly diced

1 fennel bulb, roughly sliced

2 bulbs of garlic, peeled and roughly crushed

5 sprigs of fresh thyme

10 white peppercorns

2 bay leaves

2 star anise Chicken stock, to cover

APPLE PURÉE

6 Bramley apples, large 70g of butter, diced

2 tbsp of light brown sugar Salt

50ml of water

PURPLE SPROUTING BROCCOLI

700g of purple sprouting broccoli Salt

25g of butter

SAUCE

3 shallots, peeled, root removed and thinly sliced

250g of button mushrooms, washed and thinly sliced

1 tbsp of tomato paste

3/4 bottle of red wine, medium

25g of flour

25g of butter, softened Vegetable oil

METHOD

Rub the sea salt into the pork belly and leave overnight in the fridge, or for 12 hours. In the morning rub off the salt and rinse off any excess under cold running water.

Place the pork belly in a deep roasting tray, arranging all the vegetables, herbs and spices around it. Cover with chicken stock and braise in the oven at 140°C/gas mark 1 for 3 ½ hours. The belly is done when you can pierce the flesh easily.

Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 30 minutes in the stock. Line a tray with greaseproof paper and carefully transfer the pork belly onto a tray, skin-side down.

Remove all of the rib bones and white cartilage. Place a sheet of greaseproof on top of the pork belly and lay a flat tray on top and weigh down with 4-5kg (butter, drinks, or heavy fruit work well) to press the belly in the fridge overnight.

Pass the remaining stock through a fine sieve and reduce by half, be careful if you use powder stock, as it will become quite salty. Store in a container until needed.

The following morning cut the pressed pork into 6 equal squares, enough for each person and place back in the fridge until required.

For the apple purée, peel and core the apples and place into a high-sided tray. Add butter,

sugar, a sprinkle of salt and 50ml of water.

Place into an oven at 180°C/gas mark 4. Cook until the apples have a mushy texture, approximately 25-35 minutes.

Carefully pour into a jug blender and blitz until smooth. Adjust the seasoning by adding more salt and sugar as desired.

Pass through a fine sieve and store in the fridge until needed.

To prepare the broccoli, remove the outer leaves, leaving the florets attached to the stalk. Remove 1cm from the bottom part of the stalk - the woody part of the vegetable.

Blanch in heavily salted boiling water for 2 minutes. Check they are done by using the tip of the knife to pierce the stems: it should go in with a little resistance. Refresh in ice water, drain and leave in the fridge until required.

For the sauce, heat some vegetable oil in a thick-bottomed pan over a high heat. Fry the shallots and mushrooms until golden. Be careful not to burn them or it will make your sauce bitter.

Once golden, stir in tomato paste and after about 10 seconds add the wine and reduce until it just coats the bottom of the pan. Add the reserved pork cooking liquor and bring up to the boil.

Meanwhile, mix the flour and butter together so it forms a paste.

Once the pork sauce has come to the boil, gradually whisk in the flour and butter mix, pea-sized amounts each time. You might not need all of it, just enough to make the sauce thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Pass through a fine sieve and set aside.

Preheat the oven to 180°C/gas mark 4. Heat a thick-bottomed pan, without oil, and add the pork belly, skin-side down. Place a small tray over the pan to guard against the spitting pan. Be careful: it will get very hot.

Once the skin starts to colour, place the pan into a hot oven and leave for 15 minutes. Check to see if it’s hot by using a temperature probe, it should read 65°C.

Meanwhile, reheat the purée and sauce until hot. Prepare a pan of boiling water and melt the butter in a wide pan for the broccoli.

Just before serving, drop the broccoli into the boiling water. Remove after 30 seconds and then toss in the melted butter and season with salt.

To serve, spoon the purée onto plates, followed by the broccoli and pork belly. Drizzle over the sauce and serve immediately

Travel C an vas Hi d eawa y

With 25 farms around the UK, Feather Down Farms offer an escape back to the simple things in life, with all the excitement of sleeping under canvas, but with the comforts of a cottage. With no electricity, lighting is by candlelight and oil lamps, creating a magical experience each evening. Think really dark starlit skies; eating roasted marshmallows under blankets by the fire; cooking over a warm stove; and the stillest of quiet nights. The Feather Down experience is a total retreat for the whole family. featherdown.co.uk

Travel n ews

Mountain Paradise

VRetreats, a collection of Italian Lifestyle Hotels has acquired their first alpine offering, the 70-room mountain paradise, Cervino set at the end of the Aosta Valley on the Italian side of the Matterhorn. After an active filled day exploring, guests can retreat to the comfort and serenity of the properties a state-of-the-art wellness area or enjoy traditional Vadostana cuisine in the hotel restaurant with panoramic views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks

Why Visit Cervinia?

One of the Largest and Highest Ski Areas in the Alps: The high-altitude ski area has over 150km of pistes to explore with most pistes lying well above 3,000m. The slopes are high, open and mostly very sunny thanks to their westerly orientation. Cervinia not only guarantees fantastic snow coverage, but also gives access to the Swiss resort of Zermatt and the Plateau, which can be reached from Cervinia in just over 30 minutes using the ski lifts and slopes.

Early Start, Late Finish: Due to the Plateau Rosà Glacier, Cervinia offers one of Europe’s longest seasons with skiing possible for around nine months of the year. Visitors can ski from mid-October all the way through to the beginning of May.

Ski in Italy and Switzerland within an Hour: July 2023 saw the opening of the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing; the highest cable car crossing in the Alps which offers a new route between Cervinia and Zermatt. The 90-minute crossing is an experience in a class of its own – gliding over the stunning mountain landscape that straddles the Italian-Swiss border, with the Matterhorn always in view, it takes visitors on a journey through the Alps.

Train Like the Champions: Cervinia and Plateau Rosà have become the training ground for the World Cup national and international teams. Skiers and snowboarders can head to Snowpark Zermatt, which is the largest freestyle facility on any glacier.

vretreats.com

WORDS:CRAIG HOUGH

A Wellness Focus For Children

Family-friendly boutique hotel, Caserío del Mirador provides an enriching and nurturing environment to stimulate emotional, social and cognitive development in children. With physical activity in a play area that includes a sand pit and trampoline, a sizeable pool, plus all books, puzzles and toys that are supplied by the host for cognitive development. The on-site farm provides an opportunity for youngsters to interact with animals, while the connection with nature leads to peaceful nights in the quiet and calming countryside. All meals are freshly prepared by co-host Sarah Robinson and her team from seasonal ingredients and homegrown (or laid) produce. Nutritious and balanced meals play a key role in the Caserío del Mirador experience and children can come together in the al fresco kitchen to enjoy Spanish and Mediterranean dishes with new friends.

caseriodelmirador.com

Komodo Sailing Adventure

With a new itinerary and two dedicated family sailings for 2024, adventure holiday specialist Stubborn Mule Travel has included Indonesian sailing experts, SeaTrek Sailing Adventures, new nine-day family-friendly cruise which starts and ends on Komodo.

On this island-hopping adventure along Indonesia’s Ring of Fire, the two summer sails have been specifically designed with children in mind and will be led by two highly knowledgeable UK-based conservationists and naturalists, Ray and Angela Hale. The expert-led safaris will travel aboard SeaTrek’s UNESCO-heritage, traditional Indonesian wooden pinisi sailing ship, Ombak Putih, and will encounter whale sharks, corals and Komodo dragons. stubbornmuletravel.com

T he Tr a vel Insi d er

WORDS: Phil Aird-Mash

As we get into the swing of 2024, you might still be looking to fill up your calendar with some restful or adventurous holiday ideas. So, this month, I thought I’d share some inspiration and advice for families who are a little more limited by the school calendar.

A tip I always share is the importance of booking early. School holidays never fail to be a popular time to travel, so to make the most of the best hotel rates and to ensure you get the best experiences, it’s vital to not leave it too late.

Easter notoriously books up quickly with families, so availably tends to get tighter the later you leave it. The Maldives is a great choice for this time of year, which has more to offer children than many people realise, including fun-filled kids’ clubs and surfing lessons. inspiringtravel.co.uk

Summer needs no introduction, as it’s a highlight of many travel calendars. I’ve been seeing an increasing popularity among families for luxury all-inclusive resorts, so for 2024 I recommend Ikos Andalusia in the Costa del Sol. Along with a host of premium inclusions, you’ll enjoy complimentary hire of your own Tesla for the day, along with a ‘dine out’ programme which allows you to eat at authentic local restaurants at no extra charge. inspiringtravel.co.uk

For October half-term, you can’t beat a safari holiday. South Africa is a year-round place to visit, with excellent malaria-free game reserves to explore and family-friendly eco lodges. rainbowtours.co.uk

Or, as the nights begin to darken and winter approaches, you might be looking for an adventure with a touch of magic. I’d suggest heading to the far-north of Swedish Lapland for a Christmas break filled with activities in the snow and searching the skies for the unforgettable northern lights. regent-holidays.co.uk

What a year of family travel that would be!

IKOS ANDALUSIA

IN A LUXURIOUS NIGHT AWAY

Our beautiful, iconic 400-year-old Hotel, sits beside the River Nene in the idyllic surroundings of the conservation village of Wansford, in Cambridgeshire. Throughout its history the Hotel has hosted an incredible array of famous and Royal guests including Mary Queen of Scots, Queen Victoria, Princess Diana and many others.

Having completed an extensive restoration, the Hotel has once again regained its reputation as one of the region’s finest. It now cleverly displays all its historic glory with luxuriously appointed rooms featuring painstakingly restored medieval fireplaces combined with all of the modern technology and conveniences we all enjoy.

With two restaurants to choose from we know our ‘foodie’ guests will be fully satisfied! Fine dining can be enjoyed in our Michelin recognised, 3 rosette awarded ‘Prévost’ restaurant. This showcases a contemporary Tasting Menu by our Executive Head Chef, Lee Clarke and Head Chef Sam Nash, all paired with the eclectic wine choices from our Sommelier.

Relax and unwind in our Courtyard Bar and Lounge, smile at its unique playful décor, enjoy the music and the warm friendly atmosphere. Even outdoors, if the weather suits, in the historic courtyard setting warmed by our open firepit.

A T u sca n R etre a t

On a peaceful hilltop in the heart of Tuscany, Rachel O’Hare discovered elegantly curated accommodations, Michelin star dining, and a variety of wellness experiences

Set in a 700-acre agricultural estate Borgo Pignano consists of an 18th century villa, elegant maisonettes and 6 uniquely designed villas with private pools all within a hamlet that dates back to Etruscan times. A further two villas will be ready in the Spring of 2024. A 90-minute drive from Pisa, the estate provides a haven from the tourist traps where guests can truly unwind. Although San Gimignano and Siena are a short drive away.

The estate’s owner Welsh-born Michael Moritz, a former journalist and later venture capitalist and philanthropist, has invested heavily in Borgo Pignano to offer a unique experience to its guests. During your stay, you can explore the organic farm, biodynamic kitchen gardens, olive groves, orchards, meadows, lakes, waterfalls and woodlands. Prosecco falls within the grounds is a popular area and romantic picnics can be arranged by the

dedicated team to create the most perfect setting for a proposal.

I stayed in the main villa in the Marchese Suite. The villa consists of 16 individually designed rooms. Beautifully restored, my suite had a painted fresco on the lofty ceiling, elegant furnishings, Murano chandeliers, a balcony, a four poster bed and a separate bathroom with a freestanding bath and separate shower. The rooms have been furnished with beautifully curated Italian antiques and would not look out of place in the pages of World of Interiors.

Tuscany has long been a refuge for artists and Borgo Pignano continues this tradition. Art adorns the walls of the suites from well-known British artists such as Euan Uglow, Celia Paul, Catherine Goodman and also

many from visiting artists. Borgo Pignano offers year-round art residencies to young students of the Royal Drawing School and each summer hosts a group of students for a week of painting and drawing. The sunsets are particularly memorable overlooking Volterra and lend themselves to being painted.

The 18th century villa has all the traditional trappings of a country estate the library, billiards room, music room, ballroom and grand stone staircase. There are plenty of areas to unwind and take in the beauty of your surroundings. Wi-Fi is present throughout the estate and has a cinema and TV room A yoga room is available as is a fully equipped gym, infinity pool, 5 a side, tennis courts and basketball court. A further pool will be completed early this year. Sunset cocktails garnished with flowers from the gardens can be enjoyed pre-dinner on the Belvedere overlooking the natural beauty of the extensive estate.

Other activities on offer include cooking classes, farm tours, painting classes, horse riding lessons and treks, pilates, wine tasting, truffle-hunting by expert

guides using dogs and honey making. The trails are perfect for trekking, mountain biking and E biking. Children are well catered for. Activities include swimming, nature trails, candle-making, pizzamaking, arts and crafts as well as sporting activities.

The ‘Herbal Laboratory Experience’ was particularly unique and I was invited to make a balm using oils and ingredients with both medicinal and aromatic properties. A range of products using high-quality raw ingredients are on offer to purchase in the reception. I bought the whole range as found the olive oil-based products particularly benefitted my skin type.

The exclusive spa offers treatments within the estate’s enchanting well where in medieval times water was collected for the village. Treatments are carried out in a candle-lit limestone cave setting, “Grotta”, a range of aromatherapy massages, skincare treatments, beauty therapies and couples wellbeing treatment using products with active ingredients from the estate. Bridal packages are also available on request.

The biodynamic vegetables and fruits are harvested from the kitchen gardens and allow for

seasonal menus within the restaurant. The Villa Pignano Restaurant was awarded the Green Star in the Michelin Guide 2022. Accompanied by an extensive selection of organic and biodynamic wines from the estate and from other Tuscan vineyards.

The Medieval Fireplace Restaurant serves Tuscan cuisine in a relaxed, social environment. The open fire creates a relaxing ambience in a traditional setting. The estate grounds include arable fields and a range of Tuscan bread is baked each morning on the estate. The smell of baked bread woke me up each morning and wafted throughout the villa. Honey and preserves are also produced as well as cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil. The winery produces red, white and rose wines using an organic method without chemicals.

The Italian passion for authentic cuisine, wine and organic ingredients is very important within the estate. The pleasure of eating good meals in the beauty of the estate and the pride the staff feel for their surroundings is clearly evident. The staff and service were exceptional and I felt truly rested after my experience of the estate. Whether spending time with your family, as a couple or even as an independent traveller, Borgo Pignano is an elegant and enchanting experience.

borgopignano.com

Mykonian Oasis

Kathryn Otto enjoyed a visit to the new design-led, adults-only 5-star lifestyle resort, Domes Noruz, in Mykonos

Location

This alluring adults-only retreat located in Agios Stefanos, is a mere 10-minute drive from the vibrant heart of Mykonos. Domes Noruz Mykonos is a 38-suite resort near the heart of an island known for its vibrant culture. Perched above the rocky coastline with sandy beaches just metres away, and surrounded by lush foliage, the boutique hotel cleverly balances the playful spirit of Mykonos with the relaxing hospitality synonymous with the Domes brand. Guests can take in sweeping vistas of the Aegean Sea while soaking up the sun by the sparkling pool.

Design

Celebrated Greek architects Urban Soul Projects have masterfully designed this architectural marvel, drawing inspiration from the natural landscapes and distinctive Cycladic charm. The interiors boast a harmonious blend of white-washed and earthy tones, complemented by elements of rattan, natural wood, fresh fabrics, and cool stone. At the heart of the hotel, guests will discover a captivating main pool area where vibrant music and breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea combine to create an unforgettable ambience at this Mykonian oasis.

Domes Noruz Mykonos offers a range of luxurious accommodation options, including suites with terraces, sea views, and private pools. Wellness enthusiasts can pamper themselves at the acclaimed Soma Spa, a sanctuary of tranquillity where modern techniques meet ancient Greek rituals.

Food and Beverage

Food and beverage experiences lie at the heart of the Noruz brand, and Domes Noruz Mykonos is no exception. The resort showcases three outstanding dining venues, each a culinary delight.

The signature Domes restaurant, Topos, helmed by Executive Chef Dionysios Pliatsikas, tempts guests with a neo-Greek menu brimming with delectable seafood sourced from the island.

For a chic dining experience, Raw Gastro Bar entices with an exquisite array of champagne, cocktails, and raw bar snacks, including ceviche. Lastly, The N Bar, a lively cocktail bar infused with Mykonos’ effervescent spirit, invites guests to indulge in a wide selection of cocktails and an extensive wine list.

The Noruz Symposium bar concept combines the luxury of premium Greek wines and cocktails with authentic Greek cuisine. Guests can enjoy cocktails with seasonal flavours influenced by ancient Greek recipes, alongside delicacies of traditional Greek cuisine named after gods and their myths, creating a chic setting, while engaging in ancient Greek rituals, and modern revelry in a truly unforgettable experience.

Events

Domes Noruz Mykonos exudes an exclusive atmosphere, enhanced by a vibrant daily schedule of events. From sunset DJ sessions to captivating live music and mixology shows, guests are enveloped in an electric ambience. When the desire to explore arises, the tried and tested concierge team of Mykonos specialists are readily available to curate extraordinary experiences, from securing coveted tables at upscale beach clubs and restaurants to navigating the ancient streets and vibrant shopping districts.

The Noruz concept is a celebration of the finer things

in life and is brought to life at celebrated nightlife destinations, merging stunning coastal landscapes with an electric atmosphere.

My Experience

Domes is a gorgeous new hotel in a quiet part of the island but easily accessible to the popular landmarks like the iconic windmills, Little Venice, the Old Port and all the lovely cobbled alleyways in Mykonos Town. The team looked after us so well and we loved the decor using earthy tones of creams and browns, helping create even more of a relaxing atmosphere. Our room boasted a beautiful view of the ocean and our balcony, although small, offered us the opportunity to see the cruise ships come into port in the evening and enjoy the beautiful sunsets. Down the hill from the hotel is Agios Stefanos beach where we enjoyed lunch in one of the traditional restaurants most afternoons and people-watched (one of our favourite things to do on holiday). You can rent a quad bike, vesper or a car from the rental office by the beach which we would highly recommend to explore the island. There are a few lovely restaurants and a shop, perfect for picking up some essentials and the area just oozes Greek charm. Overall our stay with Domes Mykonos was a memorable one. The team were so accommodating, and we loved the relaxed, laid back atmosphere. A slice of luxury in the Mykonos cake. domesresorts.com

M eet t he H o telie r

JONATHAN DAWSON, GENERAL MANAGER AT BUXTON CRESCENT HOTEL

What are the benefits of your location?

Buxton Crescent Hotel benefits from its perfect positioning on the doorstep of the Peak District, while also being tucked in a picturesque market town that has a real sense of community. Buxton is famed for its natural mineral baths, known for their healing properties, which flow through the spa’s three pools and eight treatment rooms. Our location is just a short walk from both the train station and the historic centre which is home to boutique shops and surrounded by green landscapes. Guests can explore everything from the neighbouring Pavilion Gardens to Solomon’s Temple, making the Crescent the perfect choice for a spa retreat that offers a multitude of invigorating activities and experiences at guests’ fingertips.

What is the most luxurious suite in the hotel?

The most luxurious suite would have to be one of our Crescent Suite, which sits alongside our other 80 rooms and suites - each steeped in over 200 years of history with the period features to match. With its original fireplaces and timeless views of the Buxton Slopes, the Crescent Suites offer a spacious open living area that transforms the grand setting into a comfortable home-awayfrom-home experience. Luxurious additions include a roll-top bath ideal for unwinding while enjoying a glass of champagne, as well as a striking super king-sized 4-poster bed that guarantees a perfect night’s sleep.

What can you tell us about the history of the hotel?

Buxton Crescent is a Grade I listed building and ranks among the UK’s most architecturally significant structures. Thanks to the 5th Duke of Devonshire, who sought to establish Buxton as a fashionable Georgian spa town, ‘taking the waters’ became a fashionable pastime for notable high-society visitors – from Mary Queen of Scots to Charles Darwin. While we are immensely proud of our recent £70 million renovation,

history will always be at the hotel’s core. Today, guests can experience the therapeutic qualities of the water for themselves, with hydrotherapy at the forefront of Buxton Crescent’s spa offering. We have made a conscious effort to ensure that the hotel reflects the building’s rich history, with rooms and suites featuring characteristically tall ceilings and wooden sash windows, while the spectacular Assembly Rooms now provide the perfect backdrop for equally elegant weddings.

How would you describe the hotel’s dining experience?

The Buxton Crescent Restaurant, which sits at the heart of the hotel, provides guests with the perfect setting to connect and indulge in a delightful dinner following a day of relaxation or exploring the scenic trails. Here, guests can savour a modern British menu that emphasises local, seasonal ingredients, all served with exceptional hospitality. For those seeking a more regal experience, an afternoon tea option is available –perfect for whiling away the afternoon after a day of exploring. For guests in need of a post-massage pick-me-up, the spa cafe serves more health-focused dishes, from a five-seed and grain risotto to a superfood salad. And for a nightcap, the hotel’s bar is the place to be, where resident mixologists craft exciting cocktails.

Of all the facilities the hotel offers, which is your favourite?

The spa is genuinely breathtaking and truly unique, with Buxton mineral-rich water flowing throughout. As soon as guests step inside and see the stained-glass dome above the original thermal pool, they realise

the extent of the maze of treatment rooms that lie ahead. Alongside the three pools, including the indoor-outdoor rooftop pool, guests will find a bio-thermal sauna, infra-red sauna, Finnish sauna, aroma room, steam room, ice fountain, and salt cave. However, what truly sets us apart are our signature treatments – my favourite is the therapeutic CO2 mineral bath treatment, which enhances circulation, while the thermal mud pack is also well-loved for its detoxifying properties. We also provide specialised treatments, such as underwater jet massages, ideal for athletes, and Jennifer Young treatments designed specifically for oncology patients.

What makes a stay at your venue stand out from your competitors?

Buxton Crescent’s unique charm is its close connection to the building’s history and its therapeutic waters, which never fail to fascinate and intrigue our guests. What truly sets us apart is our direct access to the Buxton Crescent Heritage Experience within the hotel – just a short walk from the rooms, guests can explore the spa town’s captivating history, the remarkable building restoration, and the renowned Buxton water. This interactive journey spans nine themed rooms within the Georgian Crescent and serves as an ideal starting point for anyone exploring the historic town. ensanahotels.com

– Our Experience –

Buxton is under two and a half hours from Rutland, with the drive offering the most breathtaking views. Buxton Crescent Hotel oozes grandeur, a beautiful stone building similar to those you see in Bath. The hotel includes an incredible spa complete with a rooftop pool, a lovely large dining room with a vast menu and a fabulous lounge bar; we found it the perfect place for a relaxing break.

Drive Star

Performer

Mercedes-Benz brought back the big SL convertible in 2022, but it has taken until now for the most powerful AMG model to surface. Packing a 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine with 804bhp (thanks in no small part to some F1-inspired hybrid assistance), this massive open-top grand tourer is capable of 0-62mph in 2.9 seconds before romping on to a top speed of 198mph. Yet despite the power and the clever propulsion system, it’s still a luxury car, with sumptuous leather upholstery and a stylish cabin filled with Mercedes-Benz’s latest technology. The only machines that can cross continents more quickly have wings. mercedes-amg.com

DRIVE

Keeping you up to date with all the latest motoring and technology news

WORDS:

JAMES FOSSDYKE

MEET THE NEW BOSS…

Porsche is replacing the ever-popular Macan with something completely new in all but name, yet it’s still promising the same compelling qualities

For years, the Porsche Macan has been the best all-round car money can buy. There, we said it. From race tracks to farm tracks and from highways to high streets, there’s nowhere the Macan doesn’t feel at home, and despite the car barely changing since it was introduced 10 years ago, it can still beat the very best in the business. That’s testament to just how brilliant it is.

But every dog – even the top dog – has its day, and the Macan’s twilight years are now upon us. The cabin is starting to feel old, and though the V6 petrol engines are brilliant, they’re pretty thirsty. So Porsche has revealed the car that will, eventually, replace the majestic Macan. Confusingly, it’s called the Macan, but there the similarities with its predecessor end. It’s more

streamlined, more modern and more high-tech, and that’s all because the rip-roaring V6 engines have been replaced with near-silent electric motors.

Yep, Porsche has built an electric Macan, designed to do everything the current petrol-powered car can do, but without burning prehistoric trees. At launch, there will be two models – the basic ‘4’ and the high-powered ‘Turbo’, but both get 100kWh battery packs and two electric motorsproviding all-wheel drive. The Turbo even gets 630bhp and can race from 0-62mph in 3.3 seconds. We’ve tried it, and it’s fast enough to make your stomach churn.

From our brief passenger ride in a prototype car, we also know the new Macan will be just as agile as its predecessor, if not more so, and equally comfortable. We also know it’ll offer ultra-rapid battery charging and an official range of well over 300 miles, no matter which version you choose. Porsche Macan, from £69,800, porsche.com/uk

SUPER SPORTS

Once known almost exclusively as a Formula 1 team, McLaren has established itself as a supercar manufacturer. And for some time now, the entry point to McLaren ownership has been the softest, most practical GT model. Remarkable for its comfort, space and speed, it has all the supercar advantages without the drawbacks. Yet now it’s gone, replaced with the new GTS, which aims to build on the qualities of its predecessor. Headline upgrades include an extra 15bhp (taking the total to 626bhp), a 10kg weight reduction and an updated nose lift kit to help the car traverse speed bumps more easily, while there are new paint options, a modified design and fresh interior trim choices.

McLaren GTS, £TBC, cars.mclaren.com

DAILY DRIVER

When you think about hot hatchbacks, you think of the Volkswagen Golf GTI. Yes, the Golf R may be more powerful, and yes, the Honda Civic Type R may be more exciting, but the GTI is the yardstick. The car against which all others are measured. And now there’s a new one. Offering slightly more style, slightly more power and much-improved technology, the latest-generation, 261bhp GTI will be one of the sportiest yet. But it also promises to be more user-friendly than before, with new and improved touchscreen technology, as well as an automatic gearbox as standard.

VW Golf GTI, £TBC, volkswagen.co.uk

RAGING BULL

If Lamborghini supercars are supposed to be unhinged, writes James Fossdyke, then the bonkers Huracan Sterrato must be the most definitive Lamborghini of them all

Supercars can do many things. They can excite, they can terrify and they can bankrupt. They can strip you of your dignity and your driving licence in a heartbeat, and they can bring joy to small children anywhere. Yet for many things, they’re useless. Speed bumps, for example, are right out, and they aren’t especially useful for trips to the shops. Not only will they guzzle fuel faster than a small airliner, but cramped cabins and non-existent luggage bays mean they’re about as practical as Jimmy Choo’s stilettos.

As we all know, Lamborghini makes the definitive supercars. Fire-breathing monsters that howl at the moon as they roar past, their brightly coloured bodywork punching improbably shaped holes in the air. They are, in a word, mad. And that’s why we love them. Nobody buys a Lamborghini because they need such a thing. They buy one because it’s the car they always dreamed of as a child, doodling in the back of a maths book.

By definition, therefore, the Lamborghini Huracan is one of the most definitive supercars of the lot. Striking? Yep. Impractical? Oh, yeah. Fast? Very. Loud? Definitely. Unhinged? Absolutely.

Surely, then, it would be impossible to build anything more ridiculous than the Huracan – a car that sees a tank of petrol not as a container of dinosaur juice, but as its morning espresso. But as you can see from these pictures, Lamborghini has done exactly that.

It’s called the Huracan Sterrato, and it builds on the already bonkers Huracan not with more power, more performance or even more outlandish paint colours, but by taking it off-road. Yep, Sterrato means ‘dirt road’, and this car is designed to take the Lamborghini experience away from the asphalt of Italy’s race tracks and motorways, and on to the infamous strade bianche – the white roads that criss-cross Italy, connecting Champagne socialists’ Tuscan villas with civilisation. Or at least the local ‘enoteca’.

Of course, the idea is ridiculous. Nobody could ever fit the volume of biodynamic Chianti required for a Champagne socialist’s breakfast

in the front of a Huracan. But when have fundamental flaws ever stopped Lamborghini from making something?

So here it is, complete with outrageous off-road tyres, raised ride height and roof rails, which allow you to put a roof rack on the top. Add in some underbody protection to stop any loose stones damaging the delicate underside, as well as a dorsal air intake to help reduce the chances of the engine swallowing any dust or gravel, and your Lamborghini is suddenly less supercar and more rally car.

Except it isn’t, because while rally cars are obliged to have small engines, the Sterrato definitely does not. In fact, it gets the same 5.2-litre V10 petrol engine as any other Huracan, albeit with slightly less power. But in the world of Lamborghini, “slightly less” power doesn’t mean much. Whereas a Huracan Tecnica, the sweetest of the road-going Huracan models, gets 631bhp, the Sterrato gets ‘just’ 602bhp. And while the Tecnica sends its power purely to the rear wheels, the Sterrato uses all-wheel drive for greater traction.

As a result, the Sterrato is quick. Not Tecnica quick, admittedly, but more than fast enough. Getting from 0-62mph takes just 3.4 seconds, and the top speed is well over 160mph. And it’s all made possible by that glorious engine.

Were it not for its size and its incredible vocal range, the Huracan’s V10 would be nothing to write home about. There’s no clever hybrid system, there’s no clever supercharger, and it doesn’t run on mhyrr. Instead, it’s a dirty great sledgehammer that lives behind the Sterrato’s two seats, creating untold noise and carbon emissions, with a side salad of performance. Even starting it is an event. Push the brake pedal, lift the red cage on the centre console and press the hexagonal button beneath, and all hell breaks loose. The engine coughs and snarls like a bear rudely awoken from hibernation, and then it settles into its restrained growl of simmering fury. Push the accelerator, and it shrieks in protest, giving all the neighbours (by which we mean everyone in the country) the impression they’re being attacked by a tiger.

It’s a wonderful, wonderful engine, and likely

you’d find in a normal Huracan), it slides and scrabbles its way down the road like a proper rally car, and it’s quite happy spanking its way along rough roads. It opens up a world normally off limits to supercar drivers.

Lamborghini

Huracan Sterrato

Price: £232,820

Gearbox: Seven-speed automatic

Engine: 5.2-litre V10 petrol

0-62mph: 3.4 seconds

Top speed: 162mph

Power: 602bhp

to be the last of its kind, but even that isn’t the best thing about the Huracan Sterrato. No, the Lamborghini’s crowning achievement is its comfort and, shock of shocks, its practicality. Because this is the first Lamborghini supercar that doesn’t need a clever lift kit to raise the nose every time you get to a speed bump. And it’s the first Lamborghini supercar that doesn’t turn your pelvis to dust every time it hits a pothole. In fact, it’s remarkably smooth, and without the need to worry about scraping the underside, it’s more relaxing than you might think.

But that’s not all the Sterrato does. While it may be a flawed supercar –a Tecnica is much more fun to drive on a good (i.e. smooth) road – the Sterrato doesn’t quite have the baggage that normally follows a supercar around. Nobody thinks the owner is an overpaid idiot. Cars like this belong to someone with a sense of humour. Someone who doesn’t take themselves, or their car, too seriously.

Okay, so it isn’t that relaxing. The rear view is non-existent, the forward view is barely any better and the whole thing is massively wide, which makes narrow gaps tricky. Add to that a sense of vagueness and rubberiness in the steering (that’s down to the chunky tyres that twist and flex as you corner, rather than an engineering issue) and it’s actually quite disconcerting to drive at speed. And it’s noisy.

But it’s also enormously good fun. In its ‘rally’ setting (there’s no ‘track’ setting as

Sadly, all too few people will have the opportunity to own a Sterrato. Fewer than 1,500 will be built, with each costing £232,820, so takers will be few and far between. But that exclusivity is all part of the charm in a car that is by no means the best Lamborghini on sale, but might well be the most Lamborghini-ish Lamborghini on sale.

And praise doesn’t come much higher than that.

Time for some well-deserved wellness?

Let Saint Lucia rejuvenate your senses

With her relaxing white sands, crystal-clear waters and invigorating volcanic mud baths, let Saint Lucia restore your mind, body and soul. Let her immerse you in the healing wonders of the rain forest and the therapeutic powers of the island’s detoxifying hot mineral-rich springs. Let her recharge and revive you with award-winning wellness and yoga retreats, surrounded by the rejuvenating energy of the Pitons. Let her indulge the senses with some of the most luxurious resorts in the Caribbean, from open-air treatment rooms set into the cliff-side, to spectacular views of the silver sands of Anse Cochon. So, what are you waiting for? Discover Saint Lucia and the natural health and wellness experience that’s on another level. For more information just visit stlucia.org/wellness

Home

Fam i ly D inne r I nvitati o n

Everyone’s welcome with this beautifully versatile and generously proportioned extending table. It’s the light, natural finish that makes this piece so distinctive - perfect for opening up a room and creating an inviting atmosphere. With clean lines and a minimalist feel, it offers a gentle nod to mid-century design, while the solid wood framework promises lasting durability. cotswoldco.com

Elevatin g

Fa mily Wellne ss

The synergy of sauna bathing and swimming at home with KLAFS & Guncast Swimming Pools in 2024

As the pace of modern life accelerates, finding new ways to prioritise family health and wellbeing is increasingly essential. In the pursuit of a balanced and healthy lifestyle, many families are looking to bring innovative wellness solutions into their own homes – particularly personal sauna cabins and private swimming pools.

Sauna bathing, renowned for its rejuvenating effects on both the body and mind, has a rich history dating back centuries. The benefits of sauna sessions are far-reaching, offering a wide range of health advantages. Saunas promote cardiovascular health by improving circulation and reducing blood pressure, contributing to a stronger heart. Sweating in the sauna also aids in detoxification, flushing out impurities and leaving the skin radiant. Saunas can even help the body

battle common colds and seasonal sniffles by encouraging the production of white blood cells.

In tandem with the sauna experience, swimming serves as an unparalleled full-body workout that is gentle on joints. The convenience of having a private swimming space at home eliminates barriers to regular exercise, encouraging families to adopt a healthier, more active lifestyle. Beneficial for all ages, swimming enhances cardiovascular fitness, builds muscle strength, and improves flexibility.

Leading the UK market in home wellness are KLAFS & Guncast Swimming Pools, a marriage that sees the very best German design engineering company

with luxury swimming pool specialist to deliver wellness suites to British clients – and it’s becoming more and more popular by the day.

Director of Guncast Swimming Pools and KLAFS in the UK, Gilles Darmon showcases the latest products to hit the UK market in 2024 – each meticulously designed and crafted to add beauty and elegance to the home, and bring a wealth of health benefits to families in the UK.

Gilles Darmon comments: “One of the organisation’s most exciting new products is their S11 sauna – a collaboration between KLAFS and Studio F.A. Porsche, a premium design agency and originators of the Porsche design. The most harmonious, timeless and comfortable sauna that has ever been designed, the S11 is a limited run of just 999 units. The S11 provides a multisensory experience combining heat, colour, sound and comfort. Carefully dimensioned, precisely angled horizontal wooden slats create seemingly freefloating loungers, set against a backdrop of traditional Japanese Washi paper, and fit with cutting-edge light and sound technology tantalising the senses.

“Swimming is an excellent way to work your entire body and cardiovascular system. An hour of swimming burns almost as many calories as running, without the impact on your bones and

joints. Guncast’s moving floor swimming pool is a fabulous solution for expanding homes without enlarging the footprint or losing rooms.

At one touch of a button, the swimming pool is seamlessly raised or lowered, transforming right before your eyes. This innovative option is the ideal option for families with young children or pets, a great way to enjoy the peace of mind of increased security. The system allows you to create a safe space for all family members, from children to novice swimmers, by adjusting the height of the pool floor on demand. It is also hugely beneficial for households seeking a space-saving pool solution.”

“Last but certainly not least is Guncast’s Vitality, Spa and Hydrotherapy Pools. The vitality pool is an excellent option for those who wish to have a pool but worry they don’t have enough space. Equipped with air and water jets and often features such as bubble pads, massage benches and powerful massage jets, these small ‘swimming pools’ are the perfect addition to your daily wellness routine. Whether you plan to use it for spa hydrotherapy, counter-current swimming against powerful jets, water aerobics, massage or just simple relaxation, the spa pool is a must-have for any home.” guncast.com

Klafs and Guncast also provide swimming pools, saunas, steam rooms and wellness suites for a range of premium hotels and spas across the country. For commercial clients, visit klafs.com/for-professionals

WILLIAM WOOD

Reinvent your living space with William Wood, the undisputed home of Luxury Statement Mirrors & Occasional Furniture. Discover the best designs in the market with a clear focus on clean and sophisticated aesthetics.

Explore The Lake District…

Enjoy the stunning scenery of England’s largest National Park – The Lake District

Brimming with breathtaking landscapes and picturesque villages, the Lakes are easily accessible via train or car from Rutland, unleashing a whole new world in the North West of England.

Award-winning holiday park operator, Pure Leisure Group, has a host of luxury sites dotted around the area for those looking to retreat either for a short break or a more permanent escape destination with holiday lodge ownership available at all of its parks.

Lakesway

Boasting incredible panoramic views overlooking the Lake District and set near the charming village of Levens, 5-star rated Lakesway offers unique and stylish holiday home ownership for families who love the outdoors.

Set on two merging rivers, the River Kent and the River Gilpin, the beautiful park is a place to reconnect with nature. A delight for those who dream of a holiday home with a view, and a top destination for walking, cycling, fishing or total relaxation and only a short drive from the more bustling hotspot, Lake Windermere.

Its stylish restaurant and bar, Wainwrights, is named in homage to the renowned fell walker Alfred Wainwright. Serving a selection of mouth-watering classics created with ingredients sourced locally from the phenomenal produce available right on its doorstep.

Coniston View

Coniston View is a luxury lodge park based on the hillside above Aldingham overlooking Morecambe Bay, and boasts a rare combination of coastal and countryside qualities. Beautiful pebbled beaches are just a stone’s throw away with stunning Lake District panoramas just over your shoulder. Its spectacular location is exclusive to its community of owners with a gated entrance, no public footpaths on-site,

and no holidaymakers, meaning that tranquility and serenity are guaranteed.

While nestled in a secluded spot, the nearby market town of Ulverston offers an abundance of amenities and hospitality within easy reach.

South Lakeland Leisure Village

South Lakeland Leisure Village is PLG’s flagship site. The award-winning holiday park is situated on the border of the south Lake District and Yorkshire Dales and offers a whole host of outdoor activities, including golf, fishing and sailing on the lake.

The holiday park includes a vast array of 5* facilities including indoor heated swimming pool, steam room, high quality gym, and luxury spa, as well as award-winning restaurant and bar – Waters Edge.

Exclusive Offer

Pure Leisure Group is offering anyone interested in purchasing one of its holiday homes to ‘try before they buy’, allowing you to book a stay for a few days to experience life as an owner at one of its Lake District destinations and then if you go on to purchase a lodge, you will get the cost of your stay credited back so there really is no better time to visit!

To take advantage of this offer or find out more about its UK destinations please call the Sales Team on 01524 784290 and visit pure-leisure.co.uk to view the parks.

D e l co r

A time-honoured Northeast company creating the finest furniture handcrafted in Northumberland

WORDS: Chris Hopkins, Delcor Brand Manager

Do you remember what you were doing in 1978? Grease was the must-see film that year. The Ford Cortina was the UK’s best-selling car. Kate Bush was in the charts with Wuthering Heights. Britain’s Prime Minister was James Callaghan.

In Spring, 1978, Alison from Whitley Bay visited the Delcor showroom in Newcastle to buy her first sofa. She recalls, “We were impressed by the design, the comfort and the fact the furniture was made for you, i.e., you didn’t just have to buy what they had in the shop.”

Alison’s sofa was called the Stiletto and was one of our latest designs in 1978 - very futuristic, modern, and presented in brown Dralon velvet - the “must have” choice for the time!

Looking back this time, Alison said, “My husband Andy and I had trawled round all the shops in Newcastle. Up until then, we had made do with hand-me-downs and second-hand furniture. We didn’t believe in buying cheap items - we saved up (as you did in those days) and then bought something you thought would last.”

Sofas of distinction

Here in Northumberland, Delcor has been creating handmade upholstered furniture – sofas of distinction - to our customers’ individual specifications since 1967.

One of our early marketing lines described us as “The manufacturer who sells direct to the customer.”

This was a very innovative concept and soon became well-known throughout the Northeast. Later, through other showrooms in the UK, Delcor solidified its reputation as a high-quality specialist manufacturer and retailer of the very best furniture.

Alison recently returned to our Delcor showroom in Seaton Delaval, asking if we had a retirement home for her beloved Delcor sofa!

She recalls choosing the sofa and a matching chair, and then waiting for them to be made whilst her lounge was decorated. She then had her first child in 1981 and moved to a larger home. She loved the sofa and chair she had but wanted to enlarge the set, so they returned to Delcor to purchase another chair.

Refurbish and re-cover

It is not unusual for us to have these conversations with our customers. We have always offered a refurbishment service for older Delcor furniture. People come back to us to have their well-loved Delcor furniture fully restored and back in their homes. Sometimes customers pass their Delcor furniture down to other family members to enjoy.

Alison reflected, “The suite lasted very well, and we only got it recovered when we changed our décor

around the year 2000. After our children flew the nest, we downsized and as my husband became quite disabled, he needed a rising/recliner chair, so we gave away the chairs.”

“In 2020 my husband died, Covid came, and life stopped. At the beginning of this year, I decided to redecorate, as I started to think about my lounge, I realised my wonderful Delcor settee was really looking like it needed renewing as the fabric was starting to show its age (mainly because my Grandchildren had been using it as a trampoline!)”

“I had decided to look for a sofa bed for the room and started looking around for something suitable. I had not realised Delcor sold sofa beds.”

I felt like I’d come home

Alison called into the Seaton Delaval showroom and met with Chris.

“I must admit I won’t need a sofa bed to last another 45 years but now I’ll have a fantastic piece of furniture

to leave to my children knowing it will give many years of good service!”

“I was so well received during my visit. I felt like I’d come ‘home’. I knew your products were excellent and really didn’t need any persuasion to think about buying from you again.

Alison is now looking forward to receiving her new designer sofa bed for her newly redecorated living room. What about her well-loved Stiletto sofa? We have adopted it and will be refurbishing it and giving it a new home in our boardroom. Stay tuned to our social media feeds to see when it is finished.

Visit our showrooms

Visit our showrooms in Seaton Delaval, Stamford, London, Altrincham or Witney.

Alison said “You seem to have such a good working atmosphere, those that I’ve met all seem to like working at Delcor. You made me feel I was an important and valued customer. And after you expressed such interest in my vintage sofa how could I not agree to buy another piece of furniture from you!”

“Would I recommend Delcor? A resounding yes!” delcor.co.uk

E l evat e You r O ut d oor Sp a ce

Outdoor Living at Gates launched in February 2024 with the latest and on-trend accessories for making the most of your garden this season

Inside our dedicated showroom, there are 14,000 sqft of display gardens, set up for easy browsing to inspire and enhance your outdoor living space. There’s something for every budget and taste, from contemporary rope weave, mango wood, marine grade faux leather, robust teak and slate grey aluminium; bohemian, mid-century and Scandi-inspired furniture; to traditional and timeless rattan, wicker, sturdy hardwoods and bronze cast aluminium. All are on display, meaning you get to try before you buy.

This year we’ve added super-sized outdoor beanbags and accessories from Extreme Lounging and new outdoor furniture brand W Garden Living from Woodlodge; we’ve also extended our range from new garden furniture brand Supremo; as well as extending favourite leading brands Bramblecrest, Kettler, Hartman, 4 Seasons Outdoor, LIFE Outdoor Living, Alexander Rose and Quest.

Supremo Garden Furniture

Supremo Garden Furniture has continued to be popular since it was first launched at Gates two years ago and has been extended again for 2024. This year we’ve added the Kota, Livorno, Mirfield, Oakham, Risha and Rivington ranges. The luxurious Oakham

range brings indoor comfort to the outdoors. Designed for patio use but would not look out of place in a conservatory, this range features chunky rattan weave with acacia wood accents. The contemporary Risha range offers Scandi-style coupled with comfort. Sink into relaxing and supportive dining chairs, crafted from responsibly sourced eucalyptus wood and marine grade synthetic rope in natural grey with thick oatmeal seat pads.

Bar sets are extremely popular this year. The stunning Supremo Mirfield set includes six tall, all-weather padded bar seats with a tall rectangular bar table and integrated firepit. This impressive set creates a perfect focal point for any outdoor space and is ideal for entertaining family and friends for drinks parties, aperitifs or casual dining. Supremo also offers a Scandi six-seat bar set in their Kota

range, crafted in eucalyptus and marine grade rope and is perfect for drinks or casual dining.

#1 - Supremo Leisure Oakham Deluxe Garden Lounge Set, £3,299

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Discover Bramblecrest

Bramblecrest’s Palermo Garden Bar Set includes four tall bar chairs with comfy deep-filled cushions and features marine grade synthetic rope and rust-resistant powder-coated aluminium frames. For added peace of mind, there’s a reassuring five-year structural guarantee. The La Rochelle rectangular four-seat set in anthracite from Bramblecrest is a spacious, modern metal bar for a more urban look.

As well-established stockists of Bramblecrest we continue to offer a huge range of their most popular garden furniture, as well as new styles for 2024 including the Tuscan range with its anthracite grey frames, chunky cushions and flared angular armrests for an oversized aesthetic.

We’ve extended our Monte Carlo marine grade leather lounging range to include a four-seat dining set; added large scale luxury lounging with the Fairford rectangular modular sofa set in walnut rattan; and there’s a huge range of comfy and stylish egg chairs to suit all.

#4 - Bramblecrest Tuscan Modular Sofa Set, £3,999

#5 - Bramblecrest Chedworth Bistro Set, £699

#6 - Bramblecrest Monte Carlo 6 Seat Garden Dining Set, £2,299

#7 - Bramblecrest Palermo Garden Bar Set, £1,299

Dining Al Fresco

Also new this season is the chic and contemporary Calpi 6 Seat Dining Set from 4 Seasons Outdoor, offering a luxurious and comfortable dining experience at a more relaxed height. This impressive dining set comes with a large 280cm rectangular dining table with a teak top and six spectacular low lounge dining chairs. There’s also new Barista, Elba and Puccini ranges from 4 Seasons Outdoor, offering super high-quality, elegant styling for all-weather garden dining and all with an extensive manufacturer guarantee. In addition, we’ve extended our range of lightweight aluminium dining sets from Hartman to include the Berkeley range in an elegant pale maize colour.

#8 - Hartman Berkeley 6 Seat Outdoor Dining Set, £1,199

#9 - 4 Seasons Outdoor Calpi

6 Seat Dining Set, £4,999

- Supremo Leisure Risha 6 Seat Rectangular Dining Set, £2,149

- Supremo Leisure Mirfield 6 Seat Bar Set, £2,099

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Transform Your Outdoors

To complement your patio furniture and extend the outdoor season we also offer a huge selection of contemporary and traditional solar, plug-in and dual-powered garden lighting, as well as gas and electric patio heaters and traditional fire pits. And for protection from the sun or sudden showers, there are garden shades in every size and design, from half-round balcony parasols, to large cantilevered parasols with pre-installed lighting and huge garden gazebos with electronic shades…and everything in between.

This season’s garden furniture trends are light, subtle and neutral in beige and oatmeal. Add scatter cushions and bolsters in bright colours and bold graphic designs from Extreme Lounging to inject interest and personality or keep it light and airy by opting for classic neutrals. Add a decorative garden mirror, wall art or a weatherproof garden rug to complete your look and ensure your outdoor space is as comfortable and welcoming as indoors.

And with matching cushion storage boxes and made-to-fit protective covers for every set your new furniture will look its very best year after year.

#10 - LIFE Outdoor Living Mixx Rectangular Garden Dining Set, £1,899

- LIFE Outdoor Living Jasmine 3 x 3m Square Cantilever Parasol, £999

#11 - Kettler Kalos Copper Electric Lantern; £89 Small, £99 Medium, £109 Large

Summer Sizzler

This year we’ve extended our recently launched range of hybrid barbecues from Grillstream, to include the new Legacy 4 Burner Barbecue with Side Burner. This multi-fuel barbecue gives you the option to choose gas or charcoal cooking on the

same grill…or both at the same time!

As an established Weber World store, we continue to offer the full range of Weber barbecues including gas, charcoal, electric and smokers, alongside an extensive collection of Weber accessories and sundries for all barbecues. New this year is the Weber Master-Touch Crafted Charcoal Grill –Weber’s classic kettle BBQ made even bigger at 67cm and with even more innovative features.

And for those who prefer a taste of Italy, we also offer a wide range of Ooni pizza ovens, accessories and fuel, including wood pellet, gas, electric and multi-fuel options.

You can also buy garden buildings on-site at Gates, from a simple shed for keeping tools secure to the most elegant and spacious garden rooms, home offices and hot tub shelters.

If you are lucky enough to live locally then our knowledgeable and friendly in-store team will guide you through the many choices available. If you prefer to browse and shop online you will find everything in our range a simple click away.

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Ooni Karu

16 Multi-Fuel Outdoor Pizza Oven, £699 gatesgardencentre.co.uk

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Home Home from

Dylan Coastal Resort in Carmarthenshire is home to some of the most exclusive holiday homes for sale in Wales overlooking the Taf Estuary

The residences at Dylan Coastal Resort are set on a stunning clifftop location overlooking the Taf Estuary in the town of Laugharne which was the home of the famous poet Dylan Thomas. Pembrokeshire, the Gower Peninsular, Tenby and the Breacon Beacons can also all be reached in less than an hour’s drive.

The residences provide a place where you can escape to and have as a home from home, with lush green landscapes, unspoilt golden sands, and some of the area’s top attractions on your doorstep. It’s a place where any day can be a weekend, and where unforgettable memories are made.

The resort is within a gated community and open 365 days a year with the benefits of full time 24 hour security, a world class spa and dining facilities surrounded by acres of beautiful countryside and the stunning view.

There are different choices of residences to choose from, all have either two or three bedroom options with modern and airy living spaces with vaulted

ceilings, fully glazed front elevation on to the terrace area, Samsung TV’s, a fully fitted kitchen with electric hob, eye level oven, microwave, dishwasher, fridge freezer, wine cooler, quooker hot tap and a dual washer/dryer.

All soft furnishings are included including sofa, curtains, floorings and carpets with the bathroom fittings being Hansgrohe, and if you want to add those little extras you can have a hot tub, outside kitchen and fire pits provided on request.

Laugharne is a beautiful town to visit with plenty of pubs, cafes, restaurants and shops. The resort is only a short walk to the Dylan Thomas Boathouse where the great writer penned some of his most famous work, the Dylan Thomas museum where you can visit his house, and have a cup of tea while viewing his memorabilia.

It is a perfect base to explore the wonderful Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire coasts and town. The South Wales Coastal Path passes by the resort providing lots of walks and wonderful views from the lodges.

On site is the wonderful Milk Wood Spa, it is an inspiring wellness destination that brings together first class facilities, innovative therapies and the power of natural healing.

The spa has treatment rooms for a range of massages and facials, infinity pool, tepidarium, sauna, relaxation room, manicure and pedicure stations,

the gym has the latest Technogym equipment and wellness technologies, with state of the art Artis Cardio equipment, a selection of free weights and multi-use resistance machines.

Along with the Milk Wood Spa there is the Milk Wood Bar and Kitchen where you can have a delicious breakfast, coffee and teas throughout the day, soak up the sun on the terrace with a selection of seasonal salads, sandwiches and sweet treats and by night sample hearty fare paired with the finest wines or sip on a classic cocktail by the fireside.

If purchasing a lodge is not what you are looking for but would like to enjoy the benefits of the Dylan Coastal Resort, you can rent the lodges for between £1250 and £3250 a week depending on the time of year and you can enjoy all the facilities on site. residences.luxurylodges.com

Hot Property

LEA HOUSE

RUTLAND VILLAGE, BARROWDEN

AN IMMACULATELY PRESENTED, TRADITIONAL STYLE HOME THAT IS BUILT FOR MODERN LIVING AND INCLUDES SOLAR PANELS, IS SITUATED DOWN A PRIVATE NO-THROUGH DRIVE IN THE HIGHLY SOUGHT AFTER VILLAGE OF BARROWDEN. OFFERS IN THE REGION OF £900,000

The attractive, stone property is set over three floors and has five double bedrooms with a principal bedroom suite on the top floor. Four double bedrooms, a fully fitted family bathroom and a Jack and Jill shower room linked with bedrooms 2 and 3 are on the first floor.

Downstairs there is a generous entrance hall with WC, a family room, a utility room, a spacious

living room and a large kitchen breakfast room all of which connect perfectly with a private, sheltered, south-facing garden.

A modern summerhouse makes an excellent home office and a separate double garage has much storage space above. A wealth of outdoor pursuits are close by for an idyllic country lifestyle yet easy access to the A1, Stamford, fast trains to London and the rest of the country offer the best of both worlds. fineandcountry.co.uk

Key Features

• Approached via a sweeping private drive with views of the undulating countryside

• Ground floor: entrance hall, 2 reception rooms, kitchen/diner, utility room and a cloakroom

• First floor: 4 double bedrooms, a Jack & Jill en suite and a family bathroom

• Top floor: master suite with dressing area and an en suite shower room

• Predominantly lawn, southfacing rear garden, patio terrace and church view

• Double garage, gravelled drive and parking area

• Total accommodation extends to approximately 2171 sq.ft

Hot Property

29 MAIN STREET LYDDINGTON,

RUTLAND

A CHARMING STONE COTTAGE IN THE HEART OF THE PICTURESQUE VILLAGE OF LYDDINGTON JUST SOUTH OF UPPINGHAM GUIDE PRICE £435,000

The property offers a large kitchen, dining room and living room downstairs and two double bedrooms and a bathroom upstairs. Recently, the Grade II listed property has been tastefully refurbished and, subject to planning, provides scope to create further accommodation in the sizeable attic if wished. An outbuilding contains a utility room and a garden store and the private and enclosed south and west facing garden captures the sun all afternoon.

Lyddington is a delightful little

ironstone village crammed with historic listed buildings and is not only close to Uppingham but also Rutland Water and has easy access to trunk roads, the A1, trains stations, and beautiful towns such as Stamford as well as the city of Peterborough. The property, dating to the early to mid-1800s, stands in the centre of the village next door to a Victorian village hall, once a school. Full of character, the house displays some exposed stone inside and the kitchen has an

old bread oven in one corner.

Although windows are old timber sashes and an inglenook fireplace is a feature in the living room, a pale neutral colour palette, which pervades the entire house, lends a bright, modern vibe. The living room is over 16 feet long and enjoys natural light from both the east and the west whilst a multi-fuel burning stove sits in the chimney recess creating a cosy focal point to the spacious room. The dining room is to the other side of the front

door and benefits built in shelving. The kitchen door opens onto the rear garden where an outbuilding houses the owner’s washing machine and tumble dryer, and an old outside privy is hidden in a corner; a garden store is adjoining. There are outside electrics and a tap. The garden is barely overlooked, fully enclosed, and predominantly gravelled. fineandcountry.co.uk

Key Features

• An attractive, Grade II listed, ironstone period cottage

• Situated in a highly desirable village only 2 miles from Uppingham

• Recently refurbished, retaining many original features

• Reception room, dining room and kitchen / breakfast room

• Two First Floor Double Bedrooms and a Family Bathroom

• Brick outbuilding housing a utility room, WC and garden store

• Enclosed, Southwest Facing Courtyard Style Garden

VELECTIOS MOLORE CORUM VOLUPTI AUT INVEL IUS APELIGNITIIS INIS NON CONEM IL IPSAM, CUPTATE MPELLOREMPOS

Hot Property

54 WEST STREET

KINGS CLIFFE, NORTHAMPTONSHIRE

A SUPERB, 18TH CENTURY, GRADE II LISTED PROPERTY SITS IN THE VERY HEART OF CONSERVATION VILLAGE OF KING’S CLIFFE GUIDE PRICE £950,000

The stone house is the perfect blend of charm and character in the predominantly old part and modern living in the new kitchen and contemporary garden room created at the back. In addition, at the end of the garden, an outbuilding offers an excellent home office as well as an opportunity to convert into a selfcontained annexe, subject to the necessary planning consents.

The handsome, stone house under Collyweston slate roofs, has two entrances from the street, one into the hall, and one into the kitchen. The former leads to an inner hall opposite which is the large, dual aspect sitting room, very cosy with its cocooning,

warm red on the walls and an impressive, stone inglenook fireplace housing a log-burner whilst the surprisingly high ceiling is a blanket of overhead beams. The downstairs, with its extensive limestone flooring with underfloor heating in the modernised areas, provides a number of reception rooms with a snug, also containing a log burner, leading off the superb, modern garden room, and a sizeable study.

With five bedrooms in total, four very generous doubles, with recently refitted bathrooms are on each of the

two upper floors. Every bedroom has some form of built-in storage from a huge wall of bespoke wardrobes in the largest to a small one in a niche in a top floor bedroom.

Outside, the completely enclosed, walled garden stretches from the patio

up steps onto a lawn with a further patio for al fresco dining or relaxing in the sun. Relatively low maintenance, being mainly lawn, there are some mature shrubs and trees, and at the far end to the side of the outbuilding, a greenhouse. Access onto Wood Road is through a door in the wall where there is off-street parking for up to four vehicles whilst a pair of garage doors open into the outbuilding, along with pedestrian side access. fineandcountry.co.uk

Key Features

• A captivating double fronted Grade II listed Georgian property

• Located centrally in an attractive East Northamptonshire village

• Hallway, reception room, snug, study or formal dining room and WC

• Open plan kitchen/breakfast room/garden room plus utility and pantry

• Attractive, generous predominantly lawn garden with two patio terraces

• Secondary Property: double garage and potting shed with studio and office above

VELECTIOS MOLORE CORUM VOLUPTI AUT INVEL IUS APELIGNITIIS INIS NON CONEM IL IPSAM, CUPTATE MPELLOREMPOS

And Finally ...

Part of the Tuli collection; add a little organisation to your tots bedroom with the Toy Storage Cabinet from Vox. Designed at a lower height, your little one can easily reach and access the contents, and with labels included, draw pictograms to help with packing away. Perfect in the playroom, bedroom or even the living room, this stylish unit would fit seamlessly with existing furniture. Finished in a soft pastel green or simple white, coordinate with the matching desk and stool to complete the look. £175, cuckooland.com