The Rutland Magazine - Spring 22 by The Cheshire Magazine & The Rutland Magazine

SPRING 2022 s ISSUE 03

Spotlight On Rutland Hall Hotel

A Life in the FAST LANE Formula 1’s Christian Horner

Bri tain’s

F INEST An exclusive interview with the CEO of ‘Pride of Britain Hotels’

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N AT U R E’S R A R E J E W E L S

STRATFORD-UPON-AVON | MAYFAIR | LEICESTER | PRAGNELL.CO.UK

SPRING 2022 s ISSUE 03 s

Managing Director Jack Bennett

Editor Craig Hough

Editorial Assistant Margaret O’Donnell

Contributers James Fossdyke Kathryn Otto Jeremy Taylor Kat Hannon

Design & Production Kate Woods

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

All Information within this issue of The Rutland Magazine is correct at time of going to print

A Note From...

Where to find us... STAMFORD 12 All Saints King West More Travel Orbis Paten & Co Savills

ith winter beginning to slowly wind down, we get ready for spring to blossom which brings with it new starts, fresh flowers and most importantly lighter evenings. And a fresh start is the hot topic covered by life change therapists, Nik and Eva Speakman this issue, as they advise on how a new year can be a new start for us all (p.33). We also speak to Kalindi Juneja, the new CEO of Pride of Britain Hotels about her new role (p.22). Christian Horner, one of the biggest names in F1, talks exclusively about his career (p.26), and the newly honoured, Matthew Hampson OBE (p.13) discusses his recent trip to meet Princess Anne at Windsor Castle to collect his award. Our popular food and drink section is bursting with goodness as we shine a spotlight on Rutland Hall Hotel’s newly launched Blossoms Restaurant (p.64). We meet Anthony Fitt, the head chef at The Grinling Gibbons, as he offers up a delicious venison recipe (p.66). James Ray, head chef at The Sun Inn is the subject for our Chef’s Q&A (p.68) and we share 3 courses with Aaron Patterson, chef director at Hambleton Hall (p.70). A little bit of love has been sprinkled into this issue as Pragnell showcase their stunning engagement rings (p.38), we go on a romantic retreat with the Curio Collection by Hilton (p.79) and look at 8 ways to say I love you with Elizabeth Stanhope (p.104). We finish the issue with our Home section as Adrian Hill shares his top tips for clients interested in securing their first work of art from auction (p.100) and Vicky Floros from Mr and Mrs Clarke Estate Agency discusses her career as an Interior Stylist and Property Consultant (p.106). Our first issue of 2022 is packed full of news, features and top tips, so please sit back, pour yourself a vintage whisky from Justerini & Brooks (p.62) and enjoy.

Stamford Endowed Schools The Bull & Swan The Crown Hotel The George Hotel The Wine Bar Stamford The William Cecil

OAKHAM Cavells Dovetail Equilibrium Gladwell Patterson Grainstore Brewary Tap Oakham School Otter’s Fine Foods Sarpech Smith Elliot Financial Management The Admiral Hornblower The Lord Nelson The Old Wisteria Hotel Stapleford Park Hambleton Hall

UPPINGHAM Crown Inn Don Paddy’s Scandimania Coffee Shop The Falcon Hotel The Lake Isle The Vaults

Happy reading,

Uppingham School

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Contents A FEW OF OUR FAVOURITES

BRITAIN’S FINEST

Pride of Britain Hotel’s CEO discusses their exquisite collection of propertiesk

A LIFE IN THE FAST LANE

NEW STARTS WITH THE SPEAKMANS

SPOTLIGHT ON…

FAMILY

A HELPING HAND AT BEDTIME

A look at what we can do to help children relax at bedtime

FOOD & DRINK

F1’s Christian Horner talks exclusively to The Rutland Magazine

MEET THE CHEF

Anthony Fitt from The Grinling Gibbons shares a delicious venison recipe

3 COURSES WITH…

Aaron Patterson, Chef Director at Hambleton Hall

Life Change Therapists Nik and Eva Speakman share expert advice

Rutland Hall Hotel

STYLE

PROPOSE WITH PRAGNELL

One of the world’s finest jewellers create hand finished pieces, made to last a lifetime

HEALTH, BEAUTY & WELLNESS

47 REGULARS

13 15 19

MY LIFE IN...

Matthew Hampson OBE shares his life in Rutland with us

NOTEBOOK

Beautiful, The Carole King Musical

3 OF THE BEST...

Dog friendly travel award winners in the UK www.therutlandmagazine.co.uk

TRAVEL

Gran Meliá Palacio de Isora

DRIVE

TRUE DECADENCE

The award-winning Bvlgari Spa in Knightsbridge

FIVE-STAR RELAXATION

THE BIGGER THEY ARE…

We take a look at the Bentley Bentayga V8

HOME TO BUY ART AT 100 HOW AN AUCTION Adrian Hill shares his top tips for those securing their first work of art

A S P R E Y. C O M

C L A S S I C C O C K TA I L S H A K E R A N D B U B B L E S M A R T I N I G L A S S

3 6 B R U T O N S T R E E T , M AY F A I R , W 1 J 6 Q X

My life ... MATTHEW HAMPSON, FOUNDER OF MATT HAMPSON FOUNDATION

How would you describe yourself ? Very unlucky and very lucky! Obviously, I was very unlucky to suffer the injury that I did at such a young age, but I’m lucky to have amazing family and friends around me, a brilliant life and a job that I love. Where is home? And work? Home is just outside of Rutland in a rural village and work is at The Get Busy Living Centre in Burrough on the Hill. The centre is a unique rehab facility that supports young people following a life-changing injury. We provide physiotherapy, specialist personal training, advice and mentoring to help people get busy living again. It’s a really special place and I’m lucky to get to do something I love every day. What did you want to be when you were younger? I always wanted to be a rugby player from a very young age. My purpose and direction changed hugely after my accident and I can’t play rugby any longer, but I still love going to the games, I enjoy coaching and it’s really rewarding to be able to support other young sportspeople through the work of my Foundation. Rugby is still at the heart of everything we do, and the rugby community more widely is so supportive I couldn’t imagine doing anything else now. Name a few of your favourite places to be... In the sunshine with family and friends. I love to travel and have friends and family over for barbecues and dinner parties. I spend a lot of time with my siblings and nieces and nephews and I have two dogs at home that keep me busy, one of them, a Labrador called Bernie is actually the official mascot of my Foundation and he always joins me when I go to work. What was the last gift you gave someone? Retro Leicester Tigers shirts. I’m still quite involved with the Tigers and the support the club has given me over the years has been fantastic.

“

The centre is a unique rehab facility that supports young people following a life-changing injury

”

Tell us a secret/fun fact? The Get Busy Living Centre sits on the historic site of a former hanger. This housed the aircraft which flew former Prime Minister, Neville Chamberlain to his meeting with Adolf Hitler in 1938, to sign the ‘Peace for our time’ treaty! Who or what would you place in room 101? Traffic wardens who don’t understand the needs of disabled people. Everyday life as a disabled person is a lot more challenging and some of them don’t seem to understand that! What was your reaction when you found out you would be receiving your OBE? It was a complete shock and I was blown away to be recognised in that way. I’m really proud of what we’ve achieved with the Foundation over the past ten years and the number of people we have helped to rebuild their lives following serious injury. I had so many calls and messages from everyone, which was really lovely, and my parents were over the moon as you can imagine. Can you talk us through your experience on the day? The investiture took place at Windsor Castle, which is an incredible place. I took my parents with me - I’m not sure they’d have forgiven me if I had taken anyone else, to be honest. It was Princess Anne that actually presented me with the OBE, she was really lovely and down-to-earth, I’m just so chuffed to have been chosen to receive the honour and it was an amazing day all round. www.matthampsonfoundation.org @hambofoundation www.therutlandmagazine.co.uk

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The RUTLAND Magazine | Regulars

NOTEBOOK WORDS: CRAIG HOUGH

Something Beautiful Celebrate the beautiful music of Carole King in this new

Made at Curve production, directed by Nikolai Foster. Beautiful tells the inspiring true story of King’s remarkable rise to stardom, from being part of a hit songwriting team with her husband Gerry Goffin, to her relationship with fellow writers and best friends Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann, to becoming one of the most successful solo acts in popular music history. Enjoy classics such as You Make Me Feel Like a Natural Woman, You’ve Got a Friend, So Far Away, Up on the Roof, and Locomotion Locomotion.. www.curveonline.co.uk

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Regulars | The CHESHIRE Magazine

9-10 APR

Chris Haughton’s OH NO, GEORGE!

What’s O n ? 19 MAR

7 APR

Uppingham School Memorial Hall An Evening with Dame Ann Murray

Dinosaur Adventure Live Stamford Corn Exchange

Renowned Irish mezzo-soprano Dame Ann Murray discusses her life and career on stage with award-winning broadcaster and acclaimed pianist Iain Burnside. www.ticketsource.co.uk/uppinghamschool

65 million years in the making… Are you ready for the adventure? Join the intrepid Dinosaur Adventurers as you journey to a world of living, breathing, lifelike Dinosaurs. Walk through the Jurassic era on an unforgettable interactive experience as you are introduced to some of the most incredible species ever to have lived on Earth. Feel the excitement of meeting real life-like Dinosaurs face-to-face and hearing the tremendous roar of a T-Rex. Learn their history and even feed them but watch out – you could be on the menu. This awe-inspiring show captivates both young and young at heart, immersing audiences in an enthralling and realistic world of Dinosaurs. www.stamfordcornexchange.co.uk

3 APR

Rutland Spring Half Marathon Oakham Join this wonderful half marathon around Rutland Water peninsula. The course is varied and interesting taking in some of the best views of the beautiful county. The event is UKA recognised and includes full course support, advanced medical care, feed stations, chip timing and a fantastic finisher medal. www.therutlandmarathon.co.uk 16

Oh No, George! is the delightfully playful tale of a dog who wants to be good but just can’t resist temptation. Adapted from the award-winning picture book by Chris Haughton, this brand new show for children aged 3+ (and their grown ups) uses acrobatics, slapstick comedy, Sign Supported English and live music to bring George’s joyful escapades to life. Originally commissioned by ARC Stockton and The Civic, Barnsley in 2020, Oh No, George! is brought to life by Can’t Sit Still, a South Gloucestershire based arts organisation that tells stories and starts conversations with the power to change the world. www.stamfordcornexchange.co.uk

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The RUTLAND Magazine | Regulars

24 APR

The Stilton Cheese Vehicle Run Uppingham

9-10 APR

Paul Weller De Montfort Hall, Leicester The Modfather returns. Few people have had as great an influence on the British music scene as Paul Weller. As frontman of The Jam, Weller spearheaded the Mod revival in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s, scoring a string of hits, including Going Underground and A Town Called Malice. His latest solo tour reaches Leicester on the back of recent album, On Sunset. www.demontforthall.co.uk

The Stilton Cheese Classic Vehicle Run is organised to coincide with the Federation of British Historic Vehicle Club’s annual ‘Drive it Day’, where owners of classic vehicles are encouraged to take to the road. The run will continue to start from Uppingham, making slight detours along the Welland Valley either to Barrowden and Wakerley Woods or a slightly longer run to Rockingham near Corby before rejoining the original route at Harringworth or if you have the time why not enjoy both detours. www.stiltoncheeserun.uk

12 APR

John Cooper Clarke I Wanna Be Yours Tour De Montfort Hall, Leicester In celebration of his long-awaited new autobiography I Wanna Be Yours, the original people’s poet Dr John Cooper Clarke has announced a very special UK tour. John Cooper Clarke, also known as the Bard of Salford, is a phenomenon: Poet Laureate of Punk, rock star, fashion icon, TV and radio presenter, social and cultural commentator – he’s one of Britain’s most beloved and influential writers and performers. John’s new show is a breath-taking showcase of poetry and spoken work, sharing stories from his incredible life and hugely successful career. JCC will take you on an incredible journey with pieces from the new book as well as his usual musings, off the wall chat, riffs, gags and wicked humour. www.demontforthall.co.uk

29 APR

Fair Cop Unleashed Join BBC Radio 4’s cop-turned-comedian Alfie Moore for his latest stand-up tour show. Fair Cop Unleashed is based on a dramatic real-life incident from Alfie’s police casebook. Relive with him the thrilling ups and downs of the night a mysterious clown came to town and more than one life ended up in the balance. It was no laughing matter – but this show certainly is! Enjoy Alfie’s unique brand of humour hilariously woven together with his personal insights into his life on the front-line of the police force. It’d be a crime to miss it! www.stamfordcornexchange.co.uk

14 - 18 APR

Craftfest 2022 The Grainstore Brewery & Tap, Oakham April sees the return of the popular craft lager, ale and gin festival. Enjoy five fun-filled day of live music and great food and sample over 20 craft lagers and 50 different gins. www.grainstorebrewery.com www.therutlandmagazine.co.uk

Want to join our Club? 2022 marks the start of a new era for Stapleford Park. We invite you to use Stapleford as your very own country-house bolthole. Unlock unlimited access to pool & spa facilities, fitness classes and social events as well as many other members perks … For more information and to apply drop us an email at members@staplefordpark.com Member numbers will be strictly limited and will commence from 1st April 2022

STAPLEFORD, NR. MELTON MOWBRAY, LEICESTERSHIRE, LE14 2EF, ENGLAND

| Regulars

oof

The Best...

Dog Fr iendly Travel Awa rd Wi n ners As we enter 2022, leading dog-friendly PetsPyjamas, reveal the winners of their annual Dog-Friendly Travel Awards. Below we select our three favourite winners, selected from the thousands of their truly welcoming dog-friendly hotels, cottages, country houses in the UK.

BEST FOR GOURMET GETAWAYS Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons, Oxfordshire,

Famously created by celebrated chef Raymond Blanc, this dog-friendly gastro getaway is a must for foodies. A grand manor house in a beautiful setting, it offers the best in old-fashioned luxury, with impeccable service, magnificent rooms, and an award-winning restaurant that promises one of Britain's finest gastronomic experiences. Pampered pets will love exploring the secret places within the property’s lawns, as well as the fuss they receive from all the staff. Prices from £763 per night.

FAMILY FRIENDLY WINNER

BEST FOR SPA BREAK WINNER

South Lodge Hotel & Spa, West Sussex

For a pampering stay, with wonderful walks and bags of style, this five-star luxury country hotel bordering the beautiful South Downs National Park was a clear winner for its category. The state-of-theart spa boasts a gym, spin studio, indoor pool, outdoor hydrotherapy pool, wild swimming pool, a thermal suite and a wealth of treatments. Beyond the spa, guests can further unwind in 93 acres of woodland and dine in a choice of three awardwinning restaurants. Dogs can expect a five-star welcome, endless exploring and dining with their human in the Great Hall. Prices from £625 per night.

Wilderness, Suffolk

A collection of 12 gorgeous farmhouses and holiday cottages set on a 5,000 acre luxury estate, it was a clear winner for the family category with plenty of options for families to gather for special occasions. Spend lazy days fishing, toe-dipping, doggie paddling or enjoying the swimming pool and tennis courts too. The properties have well equipped kitchens or take the night off by hiring the in-house chef or dining at the dog-friendly pubs nearby. For the ultimate family gathering hire Chapel Barn – a renovated 15th-century barn with a dining room to cater for 30 guests. Prices are from £136 to £3625 per night.

www.petspyjamas.com www.therutlandmagazine.co.uk

Feature | The RUTLAND Magazine

Restart estartii ng y our D a ting L ife on the R ight No N ote Co-founder and Dating Expert at Select Personal Introductions, Alex Mellor-Brook shares his expert advice on returning to the world of dating after a break up

eople talk about getting back on horses and never forgetting how to ride bicycles, but a romantic life is not a means of transport. It’s not just about getting over a few wobbles or having somebody nearby to catch you if you fall. Instead, it’s a full-on balancing act, where your own emotional life, and your willingness to step out into the wide world of dating need to synchronize. That might sound daunting, but it’s also the most worthwhile thing you can do for yourself, and for the person out there who’s just waiting to meet you. Actually having somebody nearby to catch you is as good an idea for your love life as for your transport adventures. Setting up a strong support network is a fantastic way to restart your love life. Get family and friends on your side by organising nights out with your mates as well as dates, so you can relax and talk to

them about how your dates are going, it’s a great way to explore what you’re really feeling and get some moral support.

When to date after a break up? There used to be strict rules about this, especially after a divorce, but today we’re more relaxed. We can offer some guidelines though. First try to establish where things went wrong in your last relationship before flying into the next one, so you can identify problems and see where you may need to change. After all, those who can’t see their mistakes may be doomed to repeat them. But don’t dwell on your sorrows too long - it’s mentally and emotionally healthier to seek out a new partnership than to feel lonely and isolated.

How to date again: • Accept your vulnerability. Whether you’re coming out of a twenty year marriage or a one year dating relationship, you may fear being hurt again. Being honest is important - first with yourself and then with anybody who might become important to you. • Have clear dating standards. Know your deal-breakers and triggers, so you can assess other people’s behaviour clearly. It’s easy to over-analyse and over-invest when we first start dating again. Having solid criteria to measure how things are going can help you view any potential partner realistically.

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• Become sociable. Coming out of a relationship often means having to rebuild a whole social life, and purely looking for a new life partner can be destabilising. Focus on reconnecting with old friends and former hobbies or launch out in new directions. This stops you fixating on a relationship as your only solution. It also makes you a more interesting and relaxed partner on the dates you do get. • Trust your gut. Having found one person to share life with, it can feel strange to start talking to total strangers again. But while that’s normal, we need to be open to new possibilities. Having people to talk to; friends, family members, or even a dating expert, can help us see that we’re actually wellequipped to rely on our instincts when it comes to rebuilding a romantic life. And finally, be brave! We all deserve a fulfilling and rewarding emotional life, and sometimes we just need to stick our necks out a bit to get it. www.selectservices.co.uk

David Hockney RA OM CH | Untitled No 281 ‘My Window’ | Limited Edition Signed and Numbered iPad Drawing

Carefully selected artists from the Royal Academy, Royal Institutes, Federations and Societies.

5Ǧ8 The Mews ◦ The George Hotel ◦ Stamford ◦ PE9 2LB Tuesday Ǧ Sunday | 11am to 5pm | 01780 480800 & Lees Yard ◦Holt ◦Norfolk NR25 6HS Monday Ǧ Saturday | 10am Ǧ 4pm | 01263 713883

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Feature | The CHESHIRE Magazine

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The RUTLAND Magazine | Feature

B rit rita a in’s F ines inestt Staycationers can gorge themselves on Pride of Britain Hotel’s exquisite independent properties

ow do you improve on a selection of some of the finest hotels in the country? That’s the intriguing challenge facing Kalindi Juneja – the new CEO of Pride of Britain Hotels who enjoys a wealth of experience in the hospitality sector. Kalindi took over the role in October, overseeing a collective of more than 50 unique, privately-owned hotels worthy of the Pride of Britain plaque at the front door– a promise of quality and hospitality since its formation in 1982. The collection stretches the length and breadth of Britain, including award-winning, exceptional hotels as far apart as The Fife Arms and The Torridon in Scotland, Thurlestone Hotel in Devon and The Goring in London. Each has been carefully selected for the best hospitality, rooms and food, ensuring Pride of Britain hotels can maintain its not-for-profit status as purveyors of extraordinary and unique places to stay. Kalindi explains the pandemic has created huge demand for Pride of Britain hotels in 2021, as domestic travellers looked to enjoy their holidays closer to home. “Demand was strong but it didn’t come without challenges for our members”. “Despite facing staff shortages our members continued to deliver the highest levels of service to our guests demonstrating just how brilliant and resilient they are. It has been a time when everyone at the hotel has pitched in – I’ve even been served breakfast by the managing director during one stay.” Pride of Britain hotels are always adapting and reacting to the market. Many are investing in new

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facilities, being more creative in their offering and adjusting services to suit the changing hospitality landscape caused by Covid-19. “We’ve noticed an increased interest in wellness– not just using spas but guests looking after themselves and wanting a holistic stay. This could be as simple as a nature walk, forest bathing, enjoying the beauty of the environment so many of our hotels are set in. Our hotel owners are adapting to this demand.” Another trend is in dining – guests are staying longer in hotels and want more options than one formal restaurant. “Guests are looking for more choices than ever and we are going the extra mile to deliver that,” said Kalindi. In 2022, the collection hopes to continue on an upward trajectory, with more selected hotels joining Pride of Britain. “We are well catered for the leisure guests, with hotels across the British Isles. The hospitality sector has been deeply affected over the pandemic, but we have also proven to the domestic market, how fabulous a British vacation can be. Kalindi says Pride of Britain Hotels has exciting plans based around the changing market and

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consumer needs over the last two years. “We are now welcoming new domestic guests to our hotels, many who have not had a British holiday before. Our existing guests also have, while accepting our existing clientele have changing needs and we take a lot of time to carefully understand this”. “Our guests are at the centre of what we do and in the new year we will be revisiting our brand identity and how we communicate with our audience.” So what makes a good hotel? Kalindi says: “For me, it’s the soul of the hotel, the people and the passion you feel from the team. When I think back to any memorable hotel experience it seldom has anything to do with the design or how beautiful the bedroom was”. “It always comes down to the team- the people who run it. That’s the beauty of Pride of Britain Hotels, each one is independent and has its own special spirit.” www.prideofbritainhotels.com

The RUTLAND Magazine| Regulars | Feature

However far you want to travel there’s a Pride of Britain hotel Here are two on Rutland’s doorstep and another well worth travelling for… Hambleton Hall

Luxury, beauty, peace and quiet. This fabulous, late Victorian country house overlooks Rutland Water and is a haven of serenity. The Harts have been running Hambleton since the 1980s and that continuity shows in a hotel that feels like a genuine home from home. The 18 bedrooms are classically styled, with homemade biscuits and plump pillows waiting for weary travellers. Downstairs, open fires crackle during the winter months and the restaurant enjoys a stellar reputation for fine cuisine and wine. Stapleford Park Stapleford near Melton Mowbray is Grade I in every respect – a grand country mansion, surrounded by 500-acres of Capability Brown-designed grounds on an epic scale. A delightful stately home steeped in history, Stapleford’s huge reception rooms and halls display both quirky artefacts and original features. Guests can eat in an opulent dining room, unwind in the unique stable block spa, or just relax in front of a roaring log fire.

Gravetye Manor

Searching for a romantic getaway? They say Gravetye was built for love, an Elizabethan mansion gloriously situated in 1,000-acres of grounds once tended by William Robinson – an early exponent of wild, English cottage style gardens. Devour amazing views from the Michelin-starred, glass-fronted restaurant, wander back to a sumptuous bedroom via wood-panelled rooms and ornate decoration. Gravetye in West Sussex is a 16th century masterpiece just waiting to be discovered.

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Feature | The RUTLAND Magazine

A Life in the

FAST LANE Christian Horner is one of the biggest names in the world’s most glamorous sport

sk the team principal of Formula One champions Red Bull Racing what he wishes he’d known a decade ago and the response comes back full throttle. “Only that Lewis Hamilton would still be driving after all these years!” The 48-year-old is only half-joking. In December, Horner led his team to victory in the most dramatic season in F1 history, with Red Bull driver, Max Verstappen, locked in a bitter battle from start to finish with Lewis Hamilton. The intense rivalry with Mercedes resulted in collisions, accusations and open warfare in the pit lane. The final final race of the season in Abu Dhabi saw Verstappen handed the trophy after a freak series of events that has caused repercussions throughout the sport and is set to shake-up the way races are run. “We really pushed hard to win the championship. It was no surprise to me that the season went down to that last race in Abu Dhabi. It was a fantastic climax to an incredibly challenging year,” says Horner. “It’s been so long since Red Bull won our four consecutive titles between 2010 and 2013. The intensity of competition was fierce in 2021 but for the first time in seven years we put Mercedes, Hamilton and their team principal, Toto Wolff, under serious pressure.”

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The RUTLAND Magazine | Feature

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Horner’s stellar Formula One career is matched by the Girl Power success of his pop star wife – Spice Girl singer Geri Halliwell. The couple’s chic Cotswold farmhouse is just outside Banbury and neighbours that of Lord Heseltine. A sprawling collection of restored barns and outbuildings, the Horner lifestyle includes fast cars, A-lister friends from motorsport and the music industry, plus an ever-expanding menagerie of animals. Just like any normal household, the kitchen is the hub of activity. When I arrive the couple’s four-year-old son Monty is pedalling a toy tractor at breakneck speed, while Geri’s daughter from a previous relationship, Bluebell Madonna, 15, is outside studiously grooming her mum’s horse, Beauty. During lockdown, Horner tried horse-riding instead of horsepower. “Geri and the girls love to ride, so I’ve become a bit of a happy hacker. It’s a great way to see the countryside and switch off from the madness of this world. Geri is much more elegant than me, I’m brute force and determination in the saddle.” Whatever Geri really, really wants, it’s unlikely Horner will return the favour and allow his wife to try out a racetrack. “Geri is the worst driver – she’s in a total world of her own and thinks everybody else is doing

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

“We really pushed hard to win the championship. It was no surprise to me that the season went down to that last race in Abu Dhabi. It was a fantastic climax to an incredibly challenging year” everything wrong. When she concentrates she drives well. The problem is, the amount of time she spends concentrating on driving is minimal compared to everything else going on in Geri’s world.” Covid also meant the family didn’t go on holiday. “Because I travel to 23 grand prix every year, it was lovely to stay in one place for a while. We bought a big tent and a neighbour barbecued for us. I filled the kids with marshmallows and sugar, so there was no chance of getting them to sleep later.” Horner’s rise to the top of Formula One almost seemed inevitable from a young age. His grandfather and father ran a successful car component company together in the Midlands - there were always plenty of interesting motors on the driveway. When he was 12, Horner’s parents bought him a go-kart to speed around the fields at their home, near Leamington Spa. The grass

proved too wet, so he went to an airfield track with his father. From that moment on Horner was hooked – he wanted to be a proper racing driver. He put university on hold after winning a Formula Renault scholarship in 1991 and later had a successful career in British Formula Two and Formula 3000, setting up his own team, Arden. However, despite a trial with Lotus, Horner realised he would never be good enough to race in Formula One. His big break came when he joined a fledging Red Bull in 2005 as the youngest team principal of the era, aged 31. “It was a massive moment in my life but also felt like a natural progression. All the principles that served me well building my Formula 3000 team I then applied to Formula One. “At the end of the day, people are your biggest asset – the right technicians, engineers and drivers. I was a big Adrian Newey

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Feature | The RUTLAND Magazine

“At the end of the day, people are your biggest asset – the right technicians, engineers and drivers”

(Red Bull’s chief technical officer) fan, so when he left McLaren to join us people stood up and took notice. If you are going to shoot for the stars, you need somebody like Adrian.” Red Bull finished the season strongly in 2009 and then won the Driver’s and Constructors’ championships in 2010 – the first of four back-to-back wins with Sebastien Vettel and Mark Webber in the driving seat. “2010 was quite a year. Adrian and I both bought an Aston Martin Vantage V12 to celebrate. It was the first real present I had afforded myself.” Horner’s luxurious home is full of memorabilia. A snooker room in one of the outbuildings is plastered with posters of the Spice Girls and countless motorsport trophies and photos from her husband’s career. In the loo is a Time Out cover of the Spice Girls, plus a framed copy of Your Song by Elton John, played at the couple’s wedding in 2015. “I don’t mind being in the limelight on a grand prix weekend but not the rest of the time. I’m so proud of what our team achieved in 2021. A lot of drivers would have crumpled under the pressure but Max was brilliant.” * Christian Horner is team principal of Red Bull Racing Formula One

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New Starts

with The

Speakmans

Life Change Therapists Nik and Eva Speakman advise on how a new year can be a new start for us all

s we enter a new year, many of us see this as an opportunity for a new start allowing us to consider what we want, and how we can enhance ourselves and our life. New hobbies, new approaches, a new way of eating and behaving suddenly appear to be acceptable. Albeit the new year is a wonderful excuse to actually ask ourselves what we want, the truth is that with every new day we have the same right and power to design the day, the life and the future that we truly want and deserve. So perhaps your new year’s resolution should be to plan your life, not just annually but also day by day.

What Stops Us As harsh as it may seem, the truth is if you do not plan your life, then invariably you will become a part of someone else’s plan, and therefore a new start has to come with an acceptance of responsibility for your life. Think about it, there is only one person that will be with you for 24 hours each day, and for the rest of your life and that is YOU. You, therefore, owe it to yourself to decide what you want, not just as a new year unfolds but also each new day and for the rest of your life.

“ There is no greater project to work on than yourself ”

“Selfish” we hear you cry, but on the contrary, albeit we are conditioned to put others first, have you ever considered that if you put yourself first so that you are happy, healthy and emotionally and physically strong that this will allow you to help more people. Just consider the plane analogy; if the cabin pressure drops, please put your oxygen mask on before helping others”. Furthermore, your happiness will radiate on those around you. Moods are contagious, you can either spread happiness or misery. The choice is yours! Knowing that your mood can influence others, we would like you to

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consider that creating your happiness is a selfless act benefiting not just you, but also those around you. A new start however for many can be daunting. We feel comfortable with the familiar, but staying with the familiar will always inhibit our growth. For those with low self-esteem, or a lack of confidence or a fear of failure or judgement, this could also clip our wings anchoring us in the same place, with the same people, same experiences, same feelings and same emotions whether good or bad.

The Benefits Allowing yourself to consider what you want from your day, your life, and your future is the first step in building your self-worth and helps increase your confidence as you give yourself the unconscious message that you matter. Going to the gym will build you physically, whereas creating a life plan, goals and resolutions will start to build you emotionally creating or improving strength of character. Once you have a plan, you have something to aim for. Imagine for example a football match with no goal posts. Players would be frantically running around, exhausting themselves and feeling frustrated as their effort had no purpose. Your life is no different. Knowing what you want gives you something to aim for, while allowing you to meet new people and to celebrate your achievements as you pass milestones along

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your journey all of which help to nourish and enhance your self-esteem and self-worth. There is no greater project to work on than yourself, and a new start can be as simple as a new attitude or increased self-awareness.

How To Start Your first step to your new start is to ask yourself what you want and without limitations. Put age, cost, experience or how to make it happen to one side as you create your list. How doesn’t matter, the first step is knowing what you want and why. Consider; • What would I like to do? • What would I like to experience? • What would I enjoy? • What would I like to see? • Who would I like to meet? • Where would I like to visit? • If I woke up tomorrow and my life was perfect, what would it look like?

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars The RUTLAND Magazine | Feature

“ You, owe it to yourself to decide what you want, not just as a new year unfolds but also each new day and for the rest of your life.” breaking your goal into manageable steps, anything can be accomplished Another great example is going on holiday, you don’t consider each mile of your road or flight, you consider the destination and the same goes in life. Don’t consider the journey, keep focused on your destination. Also, replicate the same approach as a Sat Nav. You input your destination, and whilst you may at times face a road closure or traffic jam, your sat nav doesn’t relent until it gets you to your destination and nor should you. Do not lose sight of the fact that you are already proficient and experienced in dealing with new starts as you wake up to a new day each morning. Your new start is growth, new experiences and fabulous new adventures. Nik and Eva’s new book Everyday Confidence: Boost your self-worth and build unshakeable confidence is out now

Ready, Steady, Go

Boost your selfworth and build unshakeable confidence E TE LIF -CHA O

TH ERA PISTS

To keep you focused, be sure to note down and read your goals regularly to keep you on track. Don’t try and sprint! Take your time. Don’t make your goals into monsters that seem too big and too frightening. Just like running a marathon from scratch can seem frightening, start by running to a lamp post, then two lamp posts, then a mile and so on. By

EVERYDAY CONFIDENCE

FA V

Once you have completed a list, just choose three things to start with, and then one tiny step that you would need to take to achieve that. For example, if you wanted to run a marathon your first step is to research how to apply. Use a diary not only to note and tick off the daily tasks you would like to complete but also to diary things in to keep you on track.

‘The Speakmans have changed so many people’s lives. I’ve seen their work in action, they really are extraordinary.’ DAVINA McCALL

YOUR

• If I were 100 years old looking back on my life, what would I regret not having done, said, tried or experienced?

N I K & E VA

SPEAKMAN

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Style Deep Di Dive with Dum uma as Inspired by watch shapes and designs of the 1970s,

the Dumas represents a more muscular form in dive watch design. Taking its name from the famed diving pioneer Frédéric Dumas, the watch harkens to a capsule of dive watches that were designed explicitly for pure function and practicality in their role as pieces of diving instrumentation. A strong octagonal watch chassis is topped with mineral crystal 120 click uni-directional turning bezel with luminous calibrations. Available now in four brand new colourways, £315, www.spinnaker-watches.co.uk

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P R O PO POS SE

with

PRAGNELL

Whether you’re browsing diamond engagement rings, or looking for something a bit different, each of Pragnell’s hand finished pieces offer an enduring symbol of love, made to last a lifetime

s we say hello to 2022, many couples may be thinking of starting a new chapter together by taking that next step in their relationship. Not so long ago, choosing an engagement ring required just a few questions: princess or emerald cut? White gold or yellow? These days, there’s a lot more choice below Pragnell showcase some of their finest pieces to help inspire you with this monumental purchase.

Masterpiece Cushion Cut Diamond Ring 4.03CT in Platinum, £POA

An important platinum D/IF Type IIa Golconda cushion cut ring from our Masterpiece Collection. Catching the eye with a limpid ice like freshness this superb 4.03ct colourless and internally flawless cushion cut diamond has been secured by hand shaped claws. Precise bullet cut diamonds have been expertly channel set into the top half of each shoulder, and resonate with a romantic sparkle. Demonstrating both expert gem cutting and setting skills these stones expertly draw the eye towards the impressive centrepiece

0.70CT Diamond Solitaire Ring Platinum Gatsby Setting, £6,500

An elegant engagement ring from the Art Deco inspired Gatsby collection. A brilliant cut diamond, complemented by French cut diamond shoulders, exquisitely set in platinum. The Gatsby ring has a sophisticated style. The French cut diamonds, which feature star-shaped facets, create a vintage look. Rarely seen in modern jewellery, they must be custom cut to fit perfectly; a time-consuming process which makes this setting all the more precious.

Edwardian Diamond Cluster Ring 3.65CT in Platinum, £31,050

A beautiful platinum and diamond cluster ring from the Edwardian Period. This classic ring features a central 3.65ct old cut diamond, which has been surrounded by a delicate halo of smaller stones that have been expertly millegrain set. Small stones have also been set into each shoulder, which both complete the design, and draw your eye towards the impressive centrepiece.

0.50CT Diamond Solitaire Ring Yellow Gold and Platinum Windsor Setting, £2,450

A classical engagement ring from the Windsor collection. A central brilliant cut diamond is secured with four split claws, subtly shaped as tiny hearts, and crafted in 18ct yellow gold and platinum. The Windsor design represents the perfect classic solitaire. Each feature has been meticulously considered to enhance the centre stone without overpowering it. 38

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Bespoke Engagement Rings

Design and create a one-of-a-kind engagement ring that’s as unique as you are. The possibilities are endless, and the result will last a lifetime. A bespoke engagement ring encapsulates the wearer’s personality and style and will be treasured for generations. We are experts in creating one-of-a-kind engagement rings to suit all tastes and budgets. A special commission needn’t break the bank. Whether you design it together as a couple or alone as a surprise, our talented inhouse designers and master craftspeople will make your dream engagement ring a reality.

Masterpiece Fancy Orangy Pink Diamond Ring 1.28CT in Platinum & Rose Gold, £POA

A fancy coloured diamond ring from the Masterpiece Collection. A certified 1.28ct radiant cut fancy orange pink diamond is set within a surround of sparkling pink diamonds white diamonds. Handcrafted in 18ct white and rose gold in a discreet claw setting, with a diamond set band. The beauty of the extraordinary diamond placed at the centre of this Masterpiece ring is matched only by its rarity

Masterpiece Heart Shaped Diamond Ring 3.22ct in Platinum, £86,000

A romantic sparkling 3.22ct heart cut diamond has been expertly claw set as the centrepiece of this exquisite engagement ring. Smaller brilliants (0.22ct) have been micro set into the top half sections of each shoulder, and delicately draw the eye towards the impressive centre stone. Guaranteed to attract attention when worn on the hand this beautiful example is accompanied by certification from the GIA to confirm a rare and sought after colourless D grading.

1.83CT Diamond Three-Stone Ring Platinum Coronet Setting, £13,200

A classic trilogy engagement ring from the Coronet collection. A brilliant cut centre diamond is accompanied on either side by two slightly smaller brilliant cuts, handcrafted in smooth platinum. Pagnell’s version of a traditional three-stone ring. The coronet setting maximises the diamond’s brilliance, whilst each claw is delicately finished to minimise appearance, creating a light finesse to the silhouette. Historically, the three diamonds of a trilogy ring symbolise the couple’s past, present and future.

Masterpiece Geometric Fancy Intense Purplish -Pink Hexagonal & Shield Cut Diamond Ring in 18ct White & Rose Gold, £90,000 Bold asymmetry dominates in this exceptional fancy intense purplish-pink diamond (0.78ct) in between the finger ring. Hand set into complementary rose gold, and surrounded by a delicate halo of pink brilliants (0.10ct) the warm sunset tones of this rare diamond are beautifully contrasted by a colourless shield cut diamond (0.21ct). Set into gleaming white gold a delicate halo of brilliants (0.07ct) complete the design.

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The RUTLAND Magazine | Style

Ful ulll B loo loom m Introducing Orchard Moon’s debut collection of luxury pyjama sets, featuring bold floral prints in sustainable plant-based fabrics

Calypso Print Pyjamas, £280

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Style | The RUTLAND Magazine

heir first collection is inspired by beautiful flower gardens, summer and daydreams. it comes in a colour palette of blues to echo water and sky, leafy greens, and gorgeous florals in pinks, oranges, yellows, peach and lilac, teasing between bright shades and pastels, offering a rainbow of hues in each set. All the prints feature detailed handpainted florals, to recall the exuberance of summer and encourage the wearer to embrace their own creativity and individuality. ‘Calypso’ dances joyfully across the fabric in bold bouquets of colourful flowers, intertwined with subtle waves and ombre shadows on a dark blue background. ‘Camille’ features expressive impressionist brushstroke painted blooms in pink, lilac and gold on a luxurious warm off-white ground. The ‘Ephemeral Bloom’ print evokes those warm summer days, relaxing under the dappled light of your favourite tree, looking up through the leaves at the glorious blue sky. Whilst ‘Wild Rose’ is a super large scale hand-painted design featuring huge semiabstract wild roses in subtle pastel shades of pink, with touches of golden yellow and minty pastel greens. The Selina pyjamas are fitted yet flexible. The sizing is inclusive and designed to flatter a wide range of body types. The pyjama blouse has wide sleeves and cuffs and a clever reverse pleat on the back which expands to allow for movement and other carefully considered design touches like a curved hem which is slightly lower at the

back, and the trousers feature a flattering straight leg cut with reverse pleats that expand over the hips and thighs. The fabric for each set is a medium-weight silky cellulose-based material, using Tencel and lyocell filament, two of the most sustainable fabrics available, produced with the cellulose found in trees. Trees are an excellent resource to make fabric with because they already grow in suitable environments, they do not require intensive farming methods or any extra water, other than what nature can provide. Lyocell filament is a ground-breaking material, unlike fibres, which are a staple length, lyocell filament is a continuous strand (as is silk and nylon), spun together to create the ultimate smoothest, silkiest fabric. Tencel has a tendency to fibrillate, which gives it a cosy, fuzzy peach skin like texture. The two fibres combined create a truly unique and sensual soothing sensation on the body.

THIS PAGE FROM LEFT: Wild Rose Scrunchie, £22 Camille Scrunchie, £22 OPPOSITE PAGE: Wild Rose Print Pyjamas, £280

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Style | The RUTLAND Magazine

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The RUTLAND Magazine | Style

OPPOSITE PAGE: Camille Print Pyjamas, £280 THIS PAGE: Ephemeral Bloom Print Pyjamas, £280 Orchard Moon is exclusive to www.orchardmoon.com

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Health, Beauty

Wellness

True Dec eca aden dencce... The jewel in the crown of Bulgari Hotel in London, the award-winning Bulgari Spa is one to visit in 2022. Arranged over two levels, this urban oasis of tranquillity boasts a 25m swimming pool lined with shimmering green and gold mosaic and a vitality pool entirely covered by gold leaf tiles. The spa includes 11 private treatment rooms and one double spa suite, complete with its own steam room, hydromassage and private treatment room; and a 150m² fitness area with personal training at the gymnasium. www.bulgarihotels.com

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Revitalise your Beauty Routine Known Nutrition has launched its first collagen supplement; a daily multivitamin that offers unrivalled collagen retention for optimum results, all while tasting great. The supplement is created with a bespoke blend of 8 scientifically proven active ingredients, combined with natural flavourings that make maintaining healthy, glowing skin easier and more delicious than ever before. The new product also contains a range of additional beneficial ingredients, including Vitamin A, C and E, which help contribute to the maintenance of normal skin, normal collagen formation within the skin and overall protection of the skin cells. www.knownnutrition.com

Health &

Beauty RUTLAND

loves

I Cannot Get This Wrong by Dr Sarah Madigan I Cannot Get This Wrong is an exploration of how to live with anxiety, a blueprint for collective healing, and a joyful celebration of hope and transformation. Dr Sarah Madigan combines practical tips with neuroscience, guest author stories with deeply personal insights, self-help with social responsibility - showing you how to create joy, replace judgement with compassion, and build a life where you can focus on something other than anxiety. £11.99, www.amazon.co.uk

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Daily Clarifying Peel Streamline skincare is having a moment and this multi-action liquid, bi-phase peel both smooths texture and improves the look of pores in 1 step with powerhouse ingredients: AHA (glycolic acid), BHA (salicylic acid) and retinoid. Exfoliants work great together, but their different compositions don’t always mix. Murad’s team of experts formulated a bi-phase peel that, when shaken, blends a resurfacing retinoid and glycolic acid with salicylic acid to help gently yet effectively clarify pores and improve surface cell turnover for smoother skin. Murad Daily Clarifying Peel, £33, www.murad.co.uk

The RUTLAND Magazine | Health & Beauty

Essential Spfs for The Slopes

Overnight Delight Introducing Luna Microcare, a new non-invasive anti-aging treatment delivers formulation of nutrients into your skin, restoring moisture and skin tone. Each patented Micro Channel Patch is worn overnight and administers minute quantities of treatment to your skin. Over a month-long course, the cumulative effect can produce wonderful results. Luna Microcare Eternal is specifically designed to perfect and protect delicate under-eye skin, Luna Microcare Luminous corrects hyperpigmentation and boosts luminosity, whilst Luna Microcare Enlighten helps boost radiance and an even skin tone. From £110, www.lunamicrocare.co.uk

#1 - Ultra Violette Supreme Screen Hydrating Skinscreen Suitable for all skin types, this lightweight formula is infused with Kakadu plum, a vitamin C-rich, antioxidant fruit extract that helps to protect the skin from damaging free radicals and environmental stressors. This super hydrating high-factor sunscreen leaves a satin finish on the skin without any tell-tale white cast. 50ml, £34, www.spacenk.com #2 - Ultra Violette Sheen Screen Hydrating Lip Balm Don’t leave your lips to fend for themselves, Ultra Violette’s luxurious lip balm is formulated to leave your lips soft and silky smooth with SPF 50 and with a subtle tint in shades; Rose, Nude, Shimmer and Peach £16, www.spacenk.com #3 - SkinCeuticals Oil Shield UV Defence Sunscreen New Oil Shield UV Defence Sun Cream SPF 50 has been created for oily and blemish prone skin. The lightweight formula protects with mineral and chemical filters while silica absorbs excess oil and blurs pores and imperfections. Skin remains mattified, yet never flat, and protected throughout the day. 30ml, £41 www.skinceuticals.co.uk

CREATE & COAT GelBottle Inc. has just launched its first ever Mani Pedi Spa called ‘Create & Coat’, in Harvey Nichols, Manchester. Loved by A-list celebrities and professional nail techs around the globe, TGB has created a new realm of salon experience, providing an oasis, complete with Insta-worthy interiors in the hub of Harvey Nichols. With over 15 years of industry experience, every element of the spa has been carefully considered so in true TGB style, no detail is left unpolished. www.createandcoat.com

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LUXURY BATHROOM EXPERTS

Let Baptist Bathrooms take the stress out of transforming your bathroom into a space you will love www.baptistbathrooms.com Tel: 01572 444212 enquiries@baptistbathrooms.com

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Family

Snuggle up in pure-cotton outfit sets and matching quilted jackets featuring The White Company’s loveable new koala print, perfect for little adventures. www.thewhitecompany.com

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Family news WORDS: CRAIG HOUGH

It’s the Ickle Touches that Make a Difference Following the brand’s hugely successful first foray into the interiors category, Ickle Bubba is thrilled to unveil even more stylish and affordable designs. Adding to the popular Mono Mountains, Cosmic Aura and Rainbow Dreams, the all-new prints Bunnychino and Rustic Safari will inject natural tones with super soft detail or statement patterns into this all important first room. What’s more, the original three prints have been such a hit that the brand has further expanded the offering across Mono Mountains, Cosmic Aura and Rainbow Dreams, with the addition of wall art, sleep aids, storage options, mobiles and more. There is so much choice, but the bright sunny sleep aid and calming rainbow mobile are definite highlights. www.icklebubba.com 52

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The RUTLAND Magazine | Family

Let’s Have a Roaring Good Adventure Sustainable kidswear brand, Polarn O. Pyret has unveiled a truly fearsome collection for AW21, introducing a charming collaboration with the Swedish author and illustrator, Sarah Sheppard. The new designs are very much inspired by her award-winning children’s book ‘It Was Once… Lots of Dinosaurs.’ From cosy blankets to warming baby hats, snuggly tracksuits bottoms and a must-have winter jumper, there is something for all children 0-8 years. The brand new, super colourful, prehistoric designs will no doubt ignite little one’s imaginations as they charge around as triceratops, hunt like a T.Rex or plod like Dippy! Starting at £16.00, www.polarnopyret.co.uk

Sing When You’re Winning Following its successful UK launch last year, The Singing Ant has introduced the Scandinavian inspired Hygge Collection to its range. The new quilted designs in earth tones promise maximum comfort, with the bonus of a low allergy risk, and a vegan leather wipe clean surface. The limited edition playmats feature a soft, premium vegan leather surface, with a delicate quilted pattern. The mats are available in four natural tones including Sienna, Sand, Latte and Stone. RRP £66.00 www.thesingingant.com

BATHTIME IS FLIPPING FUN Featuring water-safe mould resistant marine friends, bathtime will never be the same again with the Infantino’s Ocean Fun Bathtime Playset. Designed to help babies gain confidence in the water while playing, the playset encourages logical thinking, as well as providing an engaging introduction to animals, numbers, counting, colours and early problem solving. RRP £19.99, www.amazon.co.uk www.therutlandmagazine.co.uk

A Helping Hand

at Bedtime Christy Kirkpatrick talks to Professor Alice Gregory about what we can do to help children relax at bedtime

he nights are drawing in and there’s a chill in the air. Autumn is my favourite season, and it’s a real treat to curl up on the sofa with a book or a magazine in the evenings, once my children are in bed. When I say that it’s a treat, I mean it. It is a treat to have some quiet time in the evenings, because in my house, putting the children to bed can take a while. I have three children, with ages ranging from five to twelve, and while one child may be tired, there is almost always another claiming to be wide awake. It seems I’m not alone in finding that bedtime can be tricky. Other parents I speak to also have trouble getting their children to sleep in the evenings. Some children find it hard to sleep because as soon as they close their eyes, they start to worry about school or other things that are on their minds. Other children find it hard to wind down after a playdate or activity they have been to, a movie

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they have watched or game they have played. Their minds are racing, and it’s hard for them to relax, ready for sleep. Bedtime, then, is not always plain sailing. But is there anything we can do to make it a little easier? Professor Alice Gregory is a leading sleep expert and Professor of Psychology at Goldsmiths, University of London. She tells me that there are a number of things we can do to help our children relax and become sleepy at bedtime.

The RUTLAND Magazine | Family

According to Professor Gregory, one key thing we can do is to keep our children’s bedtime – and wake time – consistent. Our physiological processes are controlled by ‘clocks’ inside our bodies, so the timing of bedtime is important. However, she adds, we should only go to bed when we are tired, so it’s important not to make our children’s bedtime too early. We should also adjust bedtime as our children grow older. In addition, Professor Gregory advises keeping bedrooms cool and dark. She encourages us to ensure that our children’s bedrooms are calm, tranquil places to be – and electronics in the bedroom should be avoided. Professor Gregory explains that electronic devices can emit ‘blue light’ which is particularly disruptive to our bodies’ ability to secrete the hormone melatonin. Even when that is not the case, devices can emit noise or lead to excitement which can disrupt sleep. Professor Gregory tells me that it is a good idea to think about our children’s diet too – and to avoid caffeine. Children are unlikely to be drinking coffee, but we should remember that caffeine can be found in other food and drink such as cola and chocolate. A bedtime routine is also important and bedtime stories can also play a part in helping children to relax at bedtime. It was for this reason that Professor Gregory, who is the author of Nodding Off: The Science of Sleep from Cradle to Grave (Bloomsbury, 2018), approached me with the idea of co-writing a book to help children relax at bedtime. I was on board straight away. I’m a children’s book writer with a background

in publishing and loved the idea of co-writing a book that would make bedtime a little smoother for many families, including my own. Professor Gregory explained that there had been emerging research to suggest that children could benefit from the same relaxation techniques as adults. Her idea was to embed some of those scientifically grounded techniques into a calming, beautifully illustrated book. She and I wrote a story called ‘The Sleepy Pebble’ and embedded three scientifically grounded sleep techniques in the story – imagery, muscle relaxation and mindfulness. We then trialled the story with one hundred families with children aged between three and eleven years old. The results and feedback from the families were encouraging, and we wrote four more stories, all featuring characters from the natural world and all embedding those same relaxation techniques. We then published the book as The Sleepy Pebble and Other Stories: Calming Tales to Read at Bedtime (Flying Eye Books, 2019). The stories in the book all feature characters from the natural world along with calming illustrations, advice about how to use the book, tips about how to make bedtime more relaxing, and a questionand-answer section. The Sleepy Pebble and Other Stories has become my go-to book when I feel that our family needs a bit of a helping hand at bedtime. I just have to remind myself that if I want to curl up on the sofa after my children have gone to sleep, I need to be careful not to drop off myself! The Sleepy Pebble and Other Stories: Calming Tales to Read at Bedtime (Flying Eye Books, 2019) can be bought from the publisher’s website and other retailers. To find out more, visit www.nobrow.net

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Family | The RUTLAND Magazine

Pets’ Corner Keep your furry friends happy with this month’s selection of products

POSITIVE PET PURCHASES FOR 2022

BLISSFUL NIGHT’S SLEEP Keep Them Warm This Winter Invest in your dog’s winter wardrobe with this quilted, reversible sherpa fleece jacket is a must-have for those cooler walks. Lightweight, reversible, durable and good looking, the outer is made from a beautiful quilted cotton, while the contrasting inner lining uses a fluffy sherpa fleece that keeps your dog warm, ensuring your dog is fully cosy. From £65, www.kintails.com

The Bliss Bolster Bed (shown in Jade), is the ultimate bolster dog bed, designed with four ethically sourced duck-feather filled Bolster Inserts to create a cosy cocoon around a deep-filled luxury mattress. Your dog can nestle into the sides, rest their chins on top, or squish and squash to their heart’s content and yet the bed will simply plump-up right back to shape. Available in a choice of five colours and various sizes. From £240, www.charleychau.com

GET YOUR PAWS ON THIS Crafted with care for those that are dog-tired of exposing their pets to synthetic ingredients, allPaws is the new organic, cruelty-free pet grooming range from Green People. Offering fur-freshening grooming products that transform mucky pups into pristine pooches, every product in the allPaws pet care range is made with gently cleansing, pH-balanced natural actives that are sustainably sourced and suitable for all dog and cat breeds. allPaws Wild Mint Cleansing Shampoo £14.00 (200ml) This organic dog shampoo freshens musty mongrel smells with a soothing blend of Mint and Eucalyptus bath bubbles which leave fur soft and fragrant without irritating delicate dog skin. Suitable for all breeds and pups aged 12 weeks or older. 56

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allPaws Sensitive Shampoo £14.00 (200ml) This unscented shampoo is designed for dogs with extra sensitive skin and does not contain any fragrance. Suitable for all breeds, this gentle formula is the perfect choice for a puppy’s first bath. www.greenpeople.co.uk

THE OUTDOOR LIVING EXPERTS

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Food Drink Tak Ta k e The

Cro row wn

The tandoori chicken flatbread and lahmacun,

a beautifully spiced Turkish lamb flatbread with little jewels of pomegranate seeds and tzatziki, are two of the most popular dishes on The Crown’s menu, which always bring an ‘ooh’ of anticipation when brought to the table. When owner Laura started building the menu, she knew that she wanted it to be different to the traditional pub menu. Influenced by the food Laura sampled on her travels, she brought elements from Southern Mediterranean and Levantine cuisine together with some great local produce to create little pops of bright, sunshiny food that usually enjoyed the use of fingers and lots of napkins. www.crownuppingham.co.uk

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Food & Drink news

BAKING MADE EASY Pairs with both the 4.3L and 4.8L iconic KitchenAid Tilt-Head Stand Mixer, the new all-in-one Bread Baking Bowl and Bowl Lid brings simplicity to the process by allowing you to easily mix, knead, proof and bake. In the oven, the lid traps the steam, while the durable ceramic bowl retains and delivers even heat throughout the baking process, giving the bread a crispy crust and thorough bake. RRP £149, www.kitchenaid.co.uk

WORDS: CRAIG HOUGH

A GRATE ADDITION TO THE KITCHEN The new Microplane Bowl Grater easily and efficiently grates vegetables, fruit and hard cheeses directly and neatly into a container or bowl. The grater can be placed horizontally across the surface or inside/at an angle in the food bowl, allowing for secure, comfortable and quick grating thanks to its two rounded and non-slip handles on both sides that are perfectly moulded to the contours of the container preventing slippage. RRP £19.95, www.johnlewis.com

KICK START YOUR DAY With its integrated (and detachable) grinder, the new Melitta AromaFresh Grind & Brew not only lets you freshly grind the beans for delicious filter coffee but also includes adjustable grind levels and coffee strength for individual coffee flavour. The timer/programme feature with LED display also gives you seductive coffee enjoyment at the time you set. Perfect for preparing barista standard coffee in the comfort of your own home. RRP £169.99, www.melitta.co.uk 60

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Rosa’s Signature Sauces Rosa’s Thai - the popular Thai restaurant group founded by chef Saiphin Moore in 2011 – has launched its first retail range, delivering Rosa’s signature pastes, oils and sauces across the UK. Each product is made using the best in authentic Thai ingredients for a punchy, fragrant range allowing Rosa’s Thai fans to recreate their favourite dishes at home. www.rosas-thai.myshopify.com

Blossoms Restaurant and Private Dining at Rutland Hall Hotel & Spa

NOW OPEN

A Unique Resort Hotel Standing Proudly on the Shore of Rutland Water • 66 bedrooms with stylish modern interiors • 49 Lodges nestled throughout the resort • Set in 65 acres of mature and tranquil parkland with direct access to Rutland Water

Facilities

• 8 Function Suites • Swimming Pool • Hair Salon

• 3 Bars and Restaurants • Squash and Tennis Courts • Gym and Spa

reception@rutlandhall.co.uk 01572 757 901

www.rutlandhall.co.uk

Food & Drink | The RUTLAND Magazine

Discover

Whisky Justerini & Brooks’ relationships with the great Scottish distilleries continues to flourish and their access to the finest liquids is unrivalled - explore their online whisky list for all manner of rare wonders

Talisker, Xpedition Oak, 43 Year Old, Skye

Brora Triptych: A Legend Restored

A collection of three vintages that define Brora, never before released as one, brought together as a true collector’s piece from the finite stocks of this ghost distillery. The imposing doors of Brora have remained shut since 1983. In the intervening years the legend of this great distillery has been kept alive by humble, whispered tales of Brora’s skilled craftspeople. Highly revered by whisky connoisseurs and collectors alike, whisky from the original, dwindling stocks have never been more in demand. This special triptych release represents a unique opportunity to own a part of whisky history; three exceptional single malts spanning a decade in Brora’s most highly regarded era. This type of bottling is so rare and special, with only 300 sets released, it is a genuine piece of history and art from one of Scotland’s most fabled distilleries. A release of this kind will not be possible to replicate for another half century. 3x50cl - 1.5L per set, £30,000, Brora Triptych will be available on request from April 2022

Talisker 43 Year Old is the first release in the distillery’s Xpedition Oak series: a collection of some of the rarest and oldest Talisker single malts. Shaped by the natural elements of the rugged Isle of Skye, the series celebrates wild whisky making at its finest. Matured in American oak hogsheads and left at a natural cask strength of 50% ABV, Talisker Xpedition Oak is limited to only 1830 bottles from a selection of just ten casks; a truly special single malt Scotch, presented in a beautiful bottle and housed in an intricately-crafted wooden box. Finished in casks including staves that have traversed the Atlantic Ocean on an epic 3,264-mile journey by British adventurer James Aiken, each bottle of this rare whisky is accompanied by a piece of one of these very staves. A mellow spice leads on the nose, with a delicious top note of stewed apple and a whisp of aromatic smoky wax, followed by complex layers of varnished wood and fresh sea spray. It is smooth and vibrant, with a rich intensity and gentle astringency from a sweet chilli pepper warmth that coats the palate in a lingering finish. 1x70cl, £3,500

Lagavulin, 26 Year Old, Islay, Special Releases 2021 Distilled in 1994, this 26-year-old Lagavulin single malt has been matured in a combination of oloroso and Pedro Ximenez sherry casks, before being bottled as part of Diageo’s 2021 Special Releases. The colour of a deep-hued beech tree in autumn, on the nose it is mellow with complex with woody aromas. Light, fresh and vinous top notes mingle with linseed oil then fade into a warm suggestion of sun-bleached polished mahogany, backed by dry edible seaweed, with sweeter hints of baked fig and butterscotch. Further in, the aromas grow more pungent, oily and fragrantly smoky. Medium bodied, on the palate it is light, ultrasmooth and oily, with sweetness soon tinged with salt and pepper, growing more savoury and smokier. Here is all the precious sweet-smoky style of Lagavulin, in a glowing, well-rounded form. The finish is long, sweetly warming and faintly smoky, a drop of water introduces a little pepper, then the smokiness reasserts itself in the drying aftertaste. Discover these rare bottlings and how to build 1x70cl, £1,650 a collection, online at www.justerinis.com 62

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EAT-DRINK-STAY

The Crown is a 16th-century coaching inn with boutique letting rooms set in the heart of Rutland, on the quaint high street of Uppingham. Serving fresh food, real ales, gins and hot drinks, sourced where possible from other local independent businesses. The Crown, 19 High Street East, Uppingham, LE15 9PY F or reservations call 01572 822302 or email at info@crownuppingham.co.uk www.crownuppingham.co.uk

Food & Drink | The RUTLAND Magazine

SPOTLIGHT ON... R U T L A N D WORDS: HELEN KNIGHTS

H A L L H OT E L

he Patel family bought the stunning hotel back in May 2020. From nearby Leicester, the family are well known for their exceptional achievements as former owners of the successful ‘Cofresh Snacks’. One of the main reasons the family made the decision to buy the hotel stems from their dedication to a charity that is very close to their hearts. LOROS (Leicestershire and Rutland Organisation for the Relief of Suffering) offers support to a large number of people in Leicestershire and Rutland and the family are immensely passionate about helping to fund their projects. The Patel’s dedication to the charity runs deep, and they have so many fantastic ideas as to how Rutland Hall Hotel can work with LOROS. To offer a venue and catering for fundraising events for LOROS is an obvious idea, but their ultimate dream is to be in a position to offer a lodge at the resort, so trained nurses can be close by at a time of palliative care for suffering families. Blossoms Restaurant, formerly the restaurant at Barnsdale Hall Hotel, recently opened at Rutland Hall led by new executive head chef, Sumit Chakrabarty. In his role, Sumit will be bringing not only delicious,

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internationally inspired food to the table but also a plethora of skills and experience to reinvigorate the hotel restaurant. After being inspired by family members working in the hospitality industry, Sumit decided to study hotel and catering management. He then went on to start his successful career with prestigious companies such as The Oberoi Group in India and the Carnival Cruise Line in America, where he worked alongside Michelinstar chef Georges Blanc. As well as serving delicacies in renowned establishments such

Best for... International cuisine

The RUTLAND Magazine | Food & Drink

as Gordon Ramsay at Claridge's, Sumit has prepared dishes for some of the world's most prominent figures, including Bill Clinton when he was the President of the United States of America. Inherently ambitious and with a determination to be a leading and successful chef, Sumit’s career took off not long after he was awarded the position of head chef at the Smith’s Hotel in Gretna Green, Scotland. Under his leadership, the hotel received two AA rosettes and he was highly commended as a Rising Star Chef in the prestigious 2008 Hotel Scotland Awards. More recently, Sumit has continued to build upon his vast range of culinary experiences by venturing around the UK, working at luxury hotels in Cheltenham, Shropshire, and Cambridge. Sumit comments, “Despite being new to Rutland, I can already see that there’s never an average day here; every day is exciting. I love the creativity in my job, as well as making others happy and meeting new people. The team here at Rutland Hall help to make it a great place to work. My favourite event to cater is a wedding. I love being a part of somebody’s big day and helping them to create special

memories that will last a lifetime” General Manager and Director at Rutland Hall Hotel, John Higham, said, “We are delighted to have Sumit joining the team. He is a true visionary in his field, and we feel very fortunate to have him leading the kitchen staff through this exciting period of change for the hotel and as we emerge from the pandemic. Our restaurant has undergone an extensive refurbishment over the last few months and so we’re excited for Sumit to come in and use his expertise to lead our culinary team in a fresh new environment.” John continues, “Rutland Hall Hotel is set in a beautiful, enchanted, hidden location. Sumit, who specialises in classical French cuisine, will be bringing his wealth of expertise and knowledge to deliver a fresh outlook to the culinary department here at Rutland Hall Hotel. We strive to become one of the best places to eat in Rutland Water. We plan to serve international cuisine in a refined way. A fresh perspective will reinvigorate the hotel’s food offering, providing a refined, international twist, which is sure to be loved by locals and visitors alike. We look forward to opening the doors to our newly refurbished restaurant.” www.rutlandhall.co.uk www.therutlandmagazine.co.uk

MEET THE CHEF:

Anthony Fitt The Head Chef at The Grinling Gibbons, a 2AA Rosette Restaurant within Stapleford Park shares a delicious venison recipe, perfect for winter

y training began at a college in Kings Lynn and later I went on to complete an NVQ. Straight out of college I began a placement at a hotel in Cornwall and was then offered my first permanent position there. This is where my love of cooking really began. I have had the pleasure of working all around the country and with people of all ages. This helped me to broaden my palette improving my skills as a chef, where we were always learning from each other and improving. Throughout my career I have worked in various restaurants and hotels including The Bellhouse Hotel in Beaconsfield, The Grand Hotel in Brighton and The Grill Restaurant in Dorchester to name just a few. My cooking really flourished over that time and my next big move came when I was offered a position at Sheraton Grand in London where I stayed for 17 years. It was here that I met and worked with an incredibly well-respected chef; Andrew Bennett (MBE), who became my mentor. I had the pleasure of working with him for 15 years and he has helped to guide me to become the chef I am today.

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“ The response we receive from our guests after each meal is what strives us to continue to offer exceptional meals that everyone and anyone are able to enjoy” Deciding to then move on to a new challenge I joined the team at Stapleford Park. We are located in the heart of the Leicestershire countryside and surrounded by 500 acres of stunning parkland. The elegant grandeur of the Main House and the tranquil landscaped gardens provide the perfect English country backdrop. All of our menus are created by what each season has to offer and contain well-balanced flavours suitable for even the most discerning palette. If you visited us during the summer and then again during the winter, you’d find dishes that complement each season. All of our dishes are created by our culinary team from locally sourced ingredients and produce is foraged from our very own countryside estate, as well as meadowsweet, elderflower, oakmoss and artisan produce from independent local suppliers. Our 2 AA Rosette restaurant The Grinling Gibbons offers exceptional dining in exceptional surroundings. We have a table for every taste here at Stapleford Park, whether it’s à la carte dining in the restaurant, afternoon tea in the Drawing Room, or lighter bites in The Library Bar. The response we receive from our guests after each meal is what strives us to continue to offer exceptional meals that everyone and anyone are able to enjoy. www.staplefordpark.com

The RUTLAND Magazine | Food & Drink

Loin of venison, chanterelle mushrooms, fondant potato, parsnip, pickled blackberries

METHOD

INGREDIENTS SERVES 2 PEOPLE:

300g Piece of venison loin 1⁄2 Garlic clove crushed 1 Sprig of thyme 1 Sprig of rosemary 2 Blackberries 2 dsp White wine vinegar 1 dsp Sugar 1 tsp Coriander seeds, fennel seeds and black peppercorns, 1 star anise 1 Large potato 10ml Olive oil 25g Butter 1 Clove of garlic 1 Sprig thyme 1 Sprig of rosemary 1 Large parsnip 60ml Double cream 1 tsp Honey 50g Chanterelle mushrooms Red wine sauce Nasturtium leaves

For the venison marinade, mix crushed garlic thyme and rosemary. Cover the venison in the marinade and place in a container and store in the fridge. For the pickled blackberries, bring the white wine vinegar, sugar, coriander seeds, fennel seeds, star anise & black peppercorns to the boil, remove from the heat and add the blackberries and leave to infuse. For the fondant potato, trim the sides of the potato, lay it flat and using a small round cutter, cut out the potato to the shape of the cutter, trim the top and the bottom. To cook the potato, place in a pan with a little oil, butter, rosemary, thyme and garlic. Colour on both sides and place in the oven and cook until soft. For the parsnip, peel and then cut in half, remove the core and cut 6 batons. With the remainder cut into small dice, place in a pan with a little oil, sweat until soft but no colour, add the cream and a little water. When ready, place in a blender and blend until smooth. Store until ready to use. For the chanterelle mushrooms, dip them in a little water to clean them, then leave to dry.

To cook the venison, remove from the fridge, season, then place in a hot non-stick pan and seal all the sides. Cook in a low oven set at 75 degrees and cook to a core temperature of 54 Degrees. When ready leave to rest. Warm the parsnip puree, cook the batons in a pan with a little oil and honey, cook until golden brown and soft. Place the chanterelle mushrooms in a pan with a small knob of butter and season to taste. To plate the dish, place the puree on the left-hand side at the top and using the back of a spoon drag the puree towards you. Place the fondant potato at the top of the puree and 2 of the parsnips in the middle. Spoon the chanterelle mushroom over the top, then place the other parsnip on top, adding the pickled blackberries in between. Add the nasturtium leaves. Trim the ends of the venison and cut in half and place on the right-hand side of the plate. Heat the sauce, season to taste and pour over the venison. www.therutlandmagazine.co.uk

Food & Drink | The RUTLAND Magazine

with... JAMES RAY, Head Chef at The Sun Inn

What was your first memory of your love for cooking? My first memory of where my love for cooking originated was thoroughly enjoying watching my nan cook her famous Sunday lunch. She would sometimes let me chop the vegetables however, the kitchen was her territory! Her gravy was legendry. To this day, I have never had a Sunday lunch as delicious as my nan’s.

When did you know you wanted to be a chef? My desire to be a chef possibly stemmed from the day I first stepped into a bustling restaurant kitchen as a pot washer at the age of 15. I fell in love with the comradery and the buzz of a busy kitchen and I progressed quite swiftly from the kitchen porter role to commis chef.

Where were you trained, and how difficult was your training? In conjunction with that work experience, I applied for Western College where I completed my Level 1, 2 and 3 City and Guilds. I found the college environment refreshing; studying something which I felt passionate about with like-minded, ambitious and creative people. I developed a real love with fish and seafood dishes, as well as developing my knowledge of front

of house and consolidating my understanding of the catering industry.

What do you love most about your job? Teamwork is my greatest motivator. When you work in unison, and the kitchen flows, it is magic. Although there is consistent pressure to achieve perfection, daily, when you create something truly special it is incredibly rewarding. It really is the best feeling of total satisfaction when you successfully finish a busy service.

Describe your style in three words. My style is modern English with an Asian twist. I love trying something different with classics in my menus and customers seem to love and appreciate it. What’s your favourite dish to create? My favourite dish to create is my Thai monkfish curry with tempura king prawn, crispy chilli squid, cashew and lemongrass crumb. Its combination of flavours works perfectly.

Where do you draw your creative inspiration from? I get a lot of my inspiration from my travels. I was lucky enough to work in a Thai cookery school for 3 months in Chang Mai, Northern Thailand. I also spent 6 months working in an award-winning seafood restaurant in Adelaide, Australia.

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What would you want to have as your last meal? What four ingredients are necessary for your kitchen? The ingredients you will always find in my kitchen are chilli, garlic, spring onions and coriander.

If you could prepare a meal for anyone, who would it be and what would you make? If I could cook a meal for anyone, it would be my nan. She sadly never got to visit any of the restaurants I’ve worked at. She would have loved The Sun Inn and I would have loved to treat her to a meal of her choice.

What are you most proud of in your career? My greatest achievement has been winning The Best Restaurant award in the city of Bath for a great restaurant called Hudson’s Bar and Grill. I also trained Midge Ure for Celebrity Masterchef during this time.

Who is your biggest supporter? My biggest supporters are my kids who love nothing more than baking with me on my days off. Not always successful, but we have created some fantastic focaccia.

My favourite meal isn’t very chef-like; but it would have to be a thick cut, aged, ribeye steak, cooked medium rare in a charcoal oven. The Josper oven we have at The Sun Inn is great for elevating meat flavour intensity and texture.

Are there any foods you just don’t like? I enjoy most foods; however, I dislike gooseberries. My auntie loved using the fruit in pies and I was always made to finish her dessert as a young child.

Do you do the cooking at home? I do enjoy cooking at home, but thankfully I have a fantastic wife who does a terrific chorizo and chicken pasta.

What advice would you offer to an aspiring chef? The advice I would give an aspiring chef is to take in as much information as you can, write down recipes and keep a journal of everything you learn, never be afraid to make mistakes, I believe the best chefs learn by the mistakes they have made.

What do you think is the most challenging ingredient to work with? The ingredient I find the most challenging is livers as I hate the smell and the texture, although I do love a good chicken liver parfait. www.thesuninnge.com

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Food & Drink | The RUTLAND Magazine

Courses with… A A R O N P AT T E R S O N , C H E F D I R E C T O R A T HAMBLETON HALL STARTER: CAN YOU TELL A STORY FROM YOUR EARLY YEARS THAT HELPED SHAPE YOU? There are two main influences that stand out in my memory from my early years of training as a chef. The first was working for my father, who was a chef and made Marco Pierre White look like a pussycat! He was a feisty Scotsman who instilled discipline in me. I worked in his kitchen as a 13-year-old weekend helper at his place in Leicester. Essentially, I was cheap labour! My father was a large man, and I recall how he always dressed up as Father Christmas on Christmas Day to give gifts to the customers. I must have done something bad that day as I remember receiving an almighty roasting from my dad dressed up as Father Christmas! At that stage in my life, I was not sure what career path I would follow but that experience certainly gave me a lot of insight. I really fell in love with cooking when I worked for Nick Gill at

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Hambleton Hall. Nick was the food critic AA Gill‘s brother and was an incredibly creative and brilliant chef. I learnt technical skills from Nick and had a lot of fun at work. That’s when I realised I had a talent for cooking and a creative mind for the job. I also realise during this period that as a youngster the constant reprimands from my father had made me nervous and made me make more mistakes. But under Nick’s tutelage, the role became about artistry. This shone a new light on the career path for me. After working for Nick at Hambleton Hall I worked for Raymond Blanc at Le Manoir Aux Quat’Saisons. Raymond was the creative chef and under him was his head chef called Clive Fretwell who played a sergeant major role in the kitchen. I could recognise the dual roles of the two types of chefs to run a successful kitchen at this point. This really helped to shape me, as I discovered how I wanted to behave as a boss. Although I didn’t have all of the answers and probably made lots of mistakes along the way, I knew what type of chef I wanted to be.

The RUTLAND Magazine | Food & Drink

MAIN COURSE: CAN YOU SHARE A MOMENT IN YOUR LIFE YOU ARE MOST PROUD OF?

I have a couple of stories that explain the moments in my life that I am most proud of. The first one was when I was asked to present a cooking show on Channel 4 which was so successful it ran for 55 episodes. It was called “Here’s one I made earlier” with Mark Wogan, the son of Terry Wogan and Paul Heathcote. The proudest moment of all was when I had the opportunity to invite my father - who although I described him a stern earlier was also my best friend - to co-present with me on the show for one episode. It was such a brilliant opportunity, and I still have the evidence to show my children. This was a really proud moment for me. More recently, in 2019, I was very proud to receive the Extra Mile Award at the Hotel Cateys, which is the hospitality industry’s equivalent of the Oscars. The award was voted for by my peers in the industry was an unexpected surprise. There were thousands of people dressed in black-tie in the ballroom of Grosvenor House in London and I had to go up on stage and make an acceptance speech. The award takes pride of place in my office now.

DESSERT: WHAT IS THE SWEETEST STORY YOU CAN SHARE? A sweet story I can share was when I was working for Raymond Blanc and he said to me “I’ve been invited to cook for the HRH The Queen Mother and you’re going to come with me”. Imagine the honour for me as a young chef at that time. We drove together in Raymond’s car and set off late as was quite usual. As we got onto

the motorway and noticed all the traffic, Raymond checked with me whether I thought he could get away with driving along the hard shoulder to save time. I jokingly said, “yes of course you’ll probably get a police escort because we will be cooking for the Queen Mother”. Instead, he was stopped and charged by the police! The event went really well and a year later when Raymond was due to cook for the Queen Mother once again, he had the confidence to send me without him to create the meals. At this second event, the Queen Mother came into the kitchen to thank all the team and came over to me and remembered me by name from the year before, which is a very special memory I will carry with me forever. Coincidentally, I was cooking at a private home near to Hambleton Hall for the Hanbury family recently and HRH Prince William was a guest at the house. After lunch William came to thank the team and after we exchanged some fun, friendly banter about my football team (Leicester City) and his (Aston Villa). I had the opportunity to let him know that I had cooked for his great grandmother a few years back. www.hambletonhall.com

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Travel Unri nriv valle alled d Exper xperiien encces

Luxury Scottish five-star resort, Cameron House,

has re-opened to visitors following the completion of a £4 million refurbishment with newly-decorated rooms said to be inspired by the hotel’s “stunning surroundings”. New features include the splendidly intimate lobby bar, serving cocktails, champagne and Cameron House’s Signature Afternoon Tea. The wider Cameron House Resort is also home to an award-winning spa complete with a rooftop infinity pool, an 18-hole championship golf course, and a 234-berth marina. www.cameronhouse.co.uk

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Travel news

WORDS:CRAIG HOUGH

LOVE FOOD For the ultimate romantic, gastronomic experience, Hotel Chais Monnet & Spa offer the best of regional French cuisine at the Michelin starred fine-dining restaurant Les Foudres. Head Chef Marc Antoine Lepage creates show stopping seasonal menus using the best local produce (sample dishes include organic farm eggs cooked at low temperature with truffled pecorino cream and organic roasted saddle of lamb from Poitou-Charentes). Les Foudres greets its guests with an entrance of towering tonneaux, or cognac casks, before they enter more intimate dining areas to indulge in multi course tasting menus and wine pairings. Inviting guests to a unique dining experience amongst the ancient Cognac barrels in the building’s historic ‘chais’, they are fully immersed in the building’s architecture and industrial past. www.chaismonnethotel.com

SPA’RKLE TOGETHER Down Hall Hotel, Spa & Estate, Essex Love is in the air at Down Hall Hotel, Spa & Estate with the property’s magical ‘Eat Stay Love’ package. Located in the picturesque Essex countryside, the package includes an overnight stay in one of Down Hall’s luxurious bedrooms, a delicious three-course dinner made even more intimate with a live pianist in the Garden Room restaurant, and a delightful aperitif of a ‘Love’ cocktail. After a great night’s sleep, enjoy a buffet breakfast the following morning and then take a romantic stroll around the hotel’s 110 acres of beautifully manicured grounds. www.downhall.co.uk 74

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Horwood House & H Spa, Buckinghamshire If you’re looking for a relaxing, romantic break with the one you love, stunning Grade-II listed Buckinghamshire property Horwood House will pull-out all the stops with a range of dedicated stay and spa day packages. Whether enjoying a romantic overnight stay with or visiting for the day, each package includes a luxurious treatment with Caudalie natural products in the hotel’s brand-new H Spa, alongside unlimited use of the wet and thermal spa facilities. www.horwoodhouse.co.uk

The RUTLAND Magazine | Travel

T he Tra Tr a vel Insid Insi d er Phil Aird-Mash Aird-Mash,, CEO of ITC Travel Group shares his advice on the best places to enjoy a romantic break

s someone who’s spent their life sharing their passion for travel with others, I’m delighted to welcome you to my new monthly travel column. To introduce myself, I’m Phil Aird-Mash, and I have the wonderful job of CEO at the ITC Travel Group, which includes the Inspiring Travel Company based in Chester along with a collection of other specialist brands. From luxury beach holidays to wildlife encounters, live sports events and off-the-beaten-track tours, we cover only the most incredible travel experiences out there. Each month, I’ll be sharing with you our expert insights on where to find the best places to enjoy a holiday or adventure. For this issue, with love very much being in the air, I’ll be sharing some ideas on where to spend a romantic break.

MILAIDHOO,

JADE MOUNTAIN, ST

So, where better to start than with the Maldives? There’s perhaps nowhere else in the world quite as romantic as these luxurious islands. One of my favourite resorts here is the incredible Milaidhoo resort, where I recommend staying in an open-walled Beach Residence for incredible views over your own private infinity pool. Visit between May and October to see manta rays swimming in the bay, or arrange for a secluded sandbank picnic for something truly memorable. Jade Mountain in St Lucia is also perfect for a romantic escape. The resort’s sanctuaries offer unbeatable views over the iconic Pitons; if you’re feeling active, you can take a hike through the rainforest together, or head out for a rejuvenating dip in the sulphur springs. For those who dream

of tying the knot, Jade Mountain also offers wedding packages, effortlessly taking care of all legal proceedings for you. For a getaway in September or October, Santorini is heaven. Split your time between two hotels, such as Vedema and Mystique, to get the most out of your stay. Don’t miss Vedema’s incredible 400-year-old wine cave for a wonderfully atmospheric romantic dinner. Then, for the best sunset views, head to Oia’s castle, where you’ll look out over the windmills and whitewashed buildings as the sky lights up in its famed shades of orange and pink – an unforgettable moment. www.inspiringtravelcompany.co.uk VEDEMA, SANTORINI,

MYSTIQUE, SANTORINI,

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pening its doors for the first time in early November 2021, The Gantry is a design-led urban resort complete with upscale modern suites, a dedicated sparkling bar Coupe, Union Social for all day dining, and an artisanal food market from The Stratford Grocer with an integrated café on the ground floor.

Location Situated 6 minutes from Kings Cross and a stone's throw from Stratford International station, The Gantry is ideally located for visitors wanting to explore the local area, from Westfield to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, and is the perfect base for those wanting to go further afield into the capital.

Restaurant & Bar The food offering at Union Social is a relaxed all-day menu with a global edge, reflective of London’s dynamic food scene and international population. Hailing from Sicily, Executive Chef Salvatore Coco, has travelled extensively and his menus reflect this, featuring flavours from all around the world, while elevating local produce from the Southeast of England. Small plates include Genovese Focaccia, Bottega’s cured cuts with fresh cheese and prawn croquettes with aioli while larger plates range from tarragon risotto with roasted autumnal vegetables, sesame glazed sea trout with white miso tamari-mirin infused ginger broth and Greek lamb meatballs, tzatziki, pickled red onion with pine nuts. A menu of healthy salads packed full of grains are light enough for guests looking for a quick lunch or mid-afternoon snack, and ideal for laptoptoting professionals working from the venue. The drinks offering at Union

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weekend away

The Gantry London Craig Hough enjoyed a stay at The Gantry Hotel, Stratford, a design-led hotel in East London Social has been created by Walter Pintus, an award-winning mixologist who has been involved in some of London’s finest institutions from The Ritz and The Connaught to The Mandrake and most recently The Conduit. Union Social’s ‘Travelling Urban Flavours’ cocktail menu will feature classics with a twist; where a Paloma is infused with British beetroot and thyme and a Piña Colada is finished with a touch of salted caramel. There is also an extensive wine and spirits list to delight all tastes and occasions. Coupe at Union Social is The Gantry’s very own Sparkling Bar. Occupying an eye-catching illuminated counter bar, with its own banquette seating and outdoor terrace, Coupe at Union Social will offer an ever-changing menu of effervescent specialities, from championing English sparkling wine to introducing the newest Hard Seltzers. Guests will be able to choose from some of the UK’s finest fizz from revered estates such as Gusbourne and Rathfinny, as well as enjoying Champagne,

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its 18th floor in Spring next year. With floor to ceiling windows, the sky bar will form the cocktail epicentre of The Gantry and the much-anticipated venue will offer a truly iconic sunset across the capital when the bar and outdoor terraces come alive with live music and DJs.

Our Visit

Prosecco, and a concise list of sparkling cocktails and spritzes.

Guest Rooms and Suites The hotel has an incredible 290-rooms and we enjoyed a stay in a King Deluxe Room with Olympic Park panoramic view, with a complimentary set of binoculars included within the room to see every detail. The room also boasted a 49” screen HD TV, toiletries by Grown Alchemist and a gorgeous Chaise longue to kick back and relax on.

Coming Soon Literally setting the bar high for al fresco partying in 2022, The Gantry will welcome the highest rooftop bar in East London when it opens

The Gantry is the fourth property within the Curio Collection in the capital and offers guests the perfect East London location. Russell and the front of house team could not have been more welcoming on arrival and were quick to check us in and deal with our enquiries. The level of service flowed throughout the hotel as we enjoyed dinner with Executive Chef Salvatore Coco, who prepared the meal in the open plan kitchen as we took in the atmosphere. The serving team were incredibly enthusiastic about working at the new venue and had a great knowledge of the menus. Their excitement for the upcoming opening of the sky bar really shone through, and you can see this will be one East London hotspot to watch leading into the warmer months.

Personal Note With shopping on your doorstep and travel links a stone’s throw away, The Gantry is the ideal East London location for a chic stay in the capital. With a rooftop bar on the horizon, book in for their summer parties now before it’s too late. www.thegantrylondon.com www.therutlandmagazine.co.uk

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R o mant mantii c R E T RE REA AT Kat Hannon enjoyed a love affair with The Fellows House Cambridge from the Curio Collection by Hilton

imply a magical corner of the world for a perfect romantic getaway; The Fellows House is situated in the most idyllic setting, and is just a five minute stroll to one of the most picturesque parks on the outskirts of the town, Jesus Green. Positioned north of the city, the atmosphere sweeps you up, transporting you to a place that exudes lavish luxury as well as that calming, countryside charm that makes us feel at home. The scene is scattered with beautiful, windswept willow trees and dainty little riverboats, encapsulating that quintessentially British aesthetic. If you wander into the park, you will be follow winding paths that lead you into the buzz and decadence of the historical city we know as Cambridge. From here, you can treat yourself to a relaxing afternoon on one of Cambridge’s famous riverboats. After all, you simply cannot go to Cambridge without an authentic punting experience. If you have a hankering for some more educational activities, why not explore the city’s marvellous historical sites from the renowned universities to the breathtaking architecture. To my surprise, I was also very impressed with the bustling retail scene; you would be stunned at how many independent shops and unique boutiques have survived the pandemic. Given that I was lucky enough to visit before Christmas, I was able to pick up one-of-a-kind gifts that I haven’t seen anywhere else; I may have bought myself a few little things as well.

If you feel too tired for the hustle of the city centre, you could always mosey down to the park and spend a lazy day flicking through your favourite novel; being in such a historical place really makes you crave those literature classics… If you fancy inviting a few friends, you could also opt for a little picnic with your favourite nibbles and a bottle of bubbly.

Restaurant & Bars To my delight, as you stroll along the cobbled streets, you are greeted by an abundance of cosy pubs, classy restaurants and quaint little cafes, enough to keep you occupied for a whole month! In fact, I found it difficult to tear myself away from the delectable cuisine and sophisticated cocktail bars as they made me feel like a true lady of leisure. Of course, there is an atmosphere to suit every taste in Cambridge; you may not feel like a sophisticated evening in black-tie attire, but www.therutlandmagazine.co.uk

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instead a lunch at The Senate which gives off those cool, hipster vibes that make you feel 22 again! If you are a foodie, then The Senate will not disappoint…the food was delicious, offering fresh, flavourful, platters that will certainly satisfy your appetite. However, the experience would not be complete without a cheeky glass of wine which went beautifully with the main course. Another café you may want to try is The Sage of Cambridge, a little gem within The Fellows Hotel itself. From the outside, you are drawn in by the cute, contemporary style, making it feel modern and rustic at the same time; on the left, as you look in, it appears to be part of the hotel but on the same note, it possesses its own unique identity. Really cute. And as I soaked up the ambience, you can’t help but feel immediately relaxed with the staff ensuring that you are welcomed in with open arms. Coffee was obviously sampled first, and I have to say that it was certainly a five star morning brew; but of course, it wouldn’t be complete without a freshly made blueberry muffin. It may sound insignificant but it’s the little things like this that set you up for the day. To have this cafe in the hotel was a gorgeous touch and it made my stay all the more pleasurable. The Sage’s unique concept of the café turning into a bar in the evening, it’s simply genius, it was a welcome surprise. In the evening, we enjoyed our very own cocktail making class, and I must admit, I did make some cracking cocktails. Our drinks were made even better as the evening progressed because we got to witness the natural light filtering through the large glass windows. There really is nothing like having a homemade cocktail while watching the sunset. 80

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Guest Rooms, Suite & Wellbeing Another time to shine for The Fellows House is their gorgeous accommodation, it’s having your very own apartment within the hotel. As you walk into the room, you will appreciate the spacious living space and, of course, the large, cosy beds that encourage you to draw the curtains and shut the world out. Who could resist leaping onto a freshly made hotel bed? I could even do a double roll on mine!! The kitchen and living space were separate from the bedroom, laid out as an open lounge area that you could just hunker down in. Sometimes, even when you are away, it’s nice to have a lethargic day just sipping cups of tea and flicking through Vanity Fair in your pyjamas. The bathrooms are lovely and large with fabulous walk-in showers that radiate relaxation; the space just made me feel so pampered, giving me the perfect opportunity to kick back and take some much needed time for myself; the entire experience offered the perfect combination of home comforts and lavish living

| Regulars

Although I was on holiday, I still looked forward to my morning gym session, and I was delighted by the fabulous gym facilities at the hotel. After working up a sweat in training, I indulged in some self-care in the calming sauna and steam rooms; there is nothing I love more than a little spa session after a work-out. To cool off from the glorious heat of the sauna, I took a lengthy dip in the pool whilst putting the world to rights and having a chin wag with my friend. The Fellows House is one of those places where you simply lose time, you could easily spend an afternoon here and forget about the city and indulge in some you time.

My Top Tips For Your Stay

Rent a bike: Get your cycle on and rent a bike from the hotel. Anyone who’s anyone in Cambridge is pictured on a bike, and what better way to explore the city? Cambridge is filled with bike traffic, so you want to fit in with all the bike savvy locals; it’s a wonderful way of getting around, and it allows you to see more than you would on foot.

Get a guide: So, of course, there are individuals offering tour guides to show you the key historical locations. It is truly fascinating to hear about how the buildings and landmarks link to famous figures throughout time. If you want to make the most of your trip, then a guide is definitely a must because it’s educational, interesting and really helpful in terms of getting your bearings. Learning where all the cool spots are will help you to plan your days better, so I’d recommend doing this early on in your stay. My tour guide was an absolute blast, not only knowledgeable but also a comedy genius! I felt like I’d been on a show! Punting! Don’t you dare miss that. Unless you get seasick, that will be the only reason I accept and even then, you should just power through to get the all-round Cambridge experience. Stay for 3 nights. I certainly needed longer, lots to see and do and revisit. It was very easy to spend half a day relaxing at Fellows, and then half a day in the city. So I’d say make it longer and to get a real taste for the city, and enjoy the exquisite home from home experience that The Fellows House has to offer. The Fellows House Cambridge, Curio Collection by Hilton, www.hilton.com www.therutlandmagazine.co.uk

G ran M eliá P a lac lacii o d e I sor sora a Kathryn Otto and partner John Coyne travelled to Guia de Isora in Tenerife for some winter sun Location Gran Meliá Palacio de Isora is a tranquil hotel located on the beachfront between the Atlantic Ocean and Mount Teide offering memorable experiences to its guests. Featuring the longest saltwater hotel infinity pool in Europe, Spanish and international cuisines and exceptional spa treatments, this hotel is the ideal location for those looking to relax and spend time with their loved ones whilst enjoying a stylish hotel surrounded by nature. Located in Guia de Isora, Gran Melia Palacio de Isora is on the boardwalk, a 1-minute drive from Alcala Beach and 8 minutes from Los Gigantes Marina. This 5-star resort is only 4.3 mi from Los Gigantes Beach.

Guest Rooms and Suites With 509 rooms to choose from there is a room to suit every style of holiday, about 85-percent of units are the entry-level Deluxe category, all with either garden, partial, or frontal ocean views. There are 71 Master Suites, which add king beds, dining area and have larger bathrooms with jetted tubs and double-headed showers. Two-bedroom Master Suites are available (connecting a Deluxe Room). Family Suites are in a separate section overlooking

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the family pool and have a similar design. There are also five villas with their own pools between the main part of the hotel and the Red Level section. We had the pleasure of staying in a Red Level Deluxe ocean view room with a whirlpool bath on our balcony, which overlooked the large infinity pool, the ocean and La Gomera.

Red Level Gran Melia offers the opportunity to upgrade to Red Level - creating an adults only boutique hotel within a hotel resort, with adults-only restaurant, lounge and pool. 24/7 butler service available along with a dedicated Red Level concierge ambassador. As a Red Level guest, you can expect priority check in, as well as priority bookings at the on-site restaurants and Clarins Spa.

Restaurants and Bars The resort boasts five international gourmet restaurant options and six bars and lounges to satisfy even the most discerning tastes. From Nami a Japanese Restaurant, which has its own sushi bar and teppanyaki tables, to the delicious Mediterranean cuisine serving paellas and seafood dishes at the Oasis Pool Grille by

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the pool, as well as their own versions of traditional Iberian fare at the DÚO Restaurant.

Spa To truly unwind on your trip, head to the onsite Spa by Clarins, where you can indulge in some well-deserved pampering. Treatments available include massages, body treatments, facials, and treatments specifically designed for men. Guests can also take advantage of the full range of wellness facilities such as the hydrotherapy pool, hydromassage, sauna, herbal steam room with chromotherapy, bi-thermal foot bath, essence showers, and the Zen meditation area. Red Level guests can enjoy one free Water Ritual per person per stay.

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Our Visit This was always going to be a memorable trip for us as we celebrated my birthday along with our first holiday together overseas - Gran Melia Palacio De Isora was the perfect choice. Our flight from Manchester took less than five hours making it a perfect destination to enjoy a long weekend away in the sun. We were greeted by the lovely Alex who drove us to the Red Level Concierge lounge on his buggy, where we were greeted with a glass of champagne to enjoy as we were swiftly checked in and were shown to our room. The first thing we noticed was the views, they were spectacular, seeing the ocean sparkle in the sunshine was a sight to behold and one we haven’t seen for a very long time. Our room also included a jacuzzi on the balcony. Alex, our butler, offered to set up the jacuzzi at any time for us. This includes scented oils in the water, rose petals and champagne. We decided to dine Nami, the Asian restaurant during our stay which we would highly recommend and spent our days by the Red Level pool. You don’t need to lift a finger, as the pool concierge will take care of everything for you – from offering an array of drinks and snacks, to sun creams and chilled towels. In the evenings, everyone gathers

| Regulars

round the same spot each night to enjoy a variety of entertainment including flamenco dancing and an incredibly talented singer. This resort has everything for everyone, if you want to enjoy some peace and quiet you have the option of Red Level which will give you the feeling of being in an adult only hotel. If you have children there are a variety of villas to choose from along with the longest infinity pool I have ever seen, selection of play areas, kids’ clubs and family friendly restaurants. On our last day we booked to visit the Clarins Spa. The hydrotherapy pool, hydromassage and bi thermal foot bath were a perfect way to end our trip before heading

to the airport for our flight home. We couldn’t have asked for anything more from our trip, this was just what we needed, a weekend of relaxation, good food and drink enjoyed together in luxurious surroundings. The staff go above and beyond to make your stay the best possible.

Personal Note With the views of the Atlantic Ocean and the majestic Teide as a backdrop, this resort provides endless magical moments. Thank you Gran Melia Palacio De Isora for a weekend of overindulgence and luxury, we will be back. www.melia.com

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Drive Old School Defende efenderr It looks like a Land Rover and it sounds

like a Land Rover, but it is not a Land Rover. This is the Ineos Grenadier, a car that takes most of the old Land Rover Defender ideals and repackages them for the 21st Century. Set to launch in the summer of 2022, the rugged, all-terrain car will be powered by a 3.0-litre diesel engine sourced from BMW, while the smartly styled but somewhat utilitarian cabin will feel familiar to anyone who drove a Defender. That said, it still comes with modern technology, including a massive infotainment screen. www.ineosgrenadier.com

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DRIVE

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

STAR QUALITY Mercedes-AMG’s gorgeous new SL convertible is back with a bang

he Mercedes-Benz SL has long been among the German brand’s flagship grand tourers – a car that can fly across continents in sumptuous comfort and turn heads at the same time. But after taking a little sabbatical over the past few years, the SL is back, and Mercedes claims it’s sportier and more luxurious than ever before. Achieving that has meant changing the SL recipe slightly, with a folding fabric hood replacing the old folding metal roof, although the ‘2+2’ seating arrangement has remained. The new body has been styled with aerodynamics in mind, and you can even have a retractable underbody wing that extends from under the floor to improve the car’s aerodynamic performance. Mercedes-AMG has also fitted plenty of luxury technology, including Mercedes’ latest driver assistance technology and infotainment systems. It also has sculpted sports seats that blow hot air around your neck to keep you warm when the roof is folded away. The beating heart of the new SL is an engine range created by Mercedes’ in-house nutcases AMG. At launch, customers will be able to choose between two hand-built 4.0-litre V8 engines, both of which drive all four wheels. The ‘basic’ 55 version will come with 469bhp, while the more powerful ‘63’ model will claim 577bhp. A hybrid model will follow the two V8s at a later date. Mercedes-AMG SL, £TBC, www.mercedes-benz.co.uk 88

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SUV’S ELECTRIC South Korean premium car maker Genesis has been busy over the past 12 months. So far it has launched no fewer than 5 models in the UK, with more on the way. Among those is this, the electric GV70. Based on the existing GV70 SUV, which is a rival to the Mercedes-Benz GLC and Audi Q5, the new zero-emission car comes with more than 200bhp and will get from 0-62mph in 4.5 seconds. Genesis is also promising around 250 miles of range, although that is based on the South Korean economy test, rather than the European standard. Genesis GV70 EV, £TBC, www.genesis.com

loves

GOING PLATINUM The Porsche Panamera is one of the greatest high-performance fourdoor cars money can buy, but Porsche keeps exploring ways to improve its appeal. The latest attempt is the new Platinum Edition, which is designed to feel “particularly elegant and exclusive”. There’s a subtle, refined standard specification, with air suspension, a panoramic glass roof and platinum-coloured exterior trim, as well as 21-inch alloy wheels and sports exhaust pipes. Customers get a choice of three engines, including the 4 E-Hybrid, which combines a V6 petrol engine with electric power to offer a short electric range and a plentiful 462bhp. Porsche Panamera Platinum Edition, from £83,510, www.porsche.com

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Drive | The RUTLAND Magazine

T H E BIGGER TH EY A RE

THE H ARDER YOU FA LL

James Fossdyke has never been a fan of the big Bentley SUV, but the brilliance of the latest model has made him a Bentayga convert

ather ironically, talking about unpopular opinions has become a very popular pastime, so I’ve chosen this month to mention one of my own. And it’s a whopper; a blue-on-blue assault aimed directly at one of our own. So here goes... Despite its undeniable luxury and capability, I have always been ambivalent towards the Bentley Bentayga. It’s not that I’ve harboured some kind of loathing towards the big 4x4, but I’ve always thought it struggled to live up to the Bentley name and the Bentley price tag. Yes, the enormous SUV was beautifully built, imposing to look at and impressively quick. It even came with some lovely hand-finished details. But the car was based on an Audi Q7, and that showed

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in some of the switchgear and the interior features. It was basically a big, heavy, German SUV with quilted leather seats, some new heater controls and an outrageous asking price. So no, I’ve never really warmed to the Bentayga, but now there’s a new model, and I considered it my solemn duty to give it a second chance. From the outside, it looks much the same as before, with a massive grille, round headlights and some enormous dimensions. This car is well over 5m long and 2.2m wide, and it weighs a faintly ridiculous 2.4 tonnes. It’s massive. But it’s more elegant than before, with some oval tail lights and more delicacy to the details in the bodywork. So while the recipe is similar, it’s a vast improvement on what went before. That’s a synonym for the cabin, which still has plenty of German DNA, but it’s hidden away beneath a layer of hand-built loveliness. The whole thing is an absolutely stunning environment packed with hand-finished leather upholstery – more than a dozen bulls laid down their lives for that interior – and high-quality woodwork. The veneer on the dashboard, door cards and even the tray tables behind the front seats is a work of art. It’s sublime. All of which means the Bentayga no longer feels like a German family bus in drag. There’s some

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natty in-car entertainment tech that’s shared with sister company Porsche, but that’s no bad thing. It just means it works properly, and that can’t always be said about British brands’ tech. Less easy to forgive are the indicator stalks, which are essentially the same as those you’ll find in an Audi A3 hatchback, albeit with some extra chrome. The same could be said of the steering wheel buttons, too. There’s nothing wrong with that per se – they all work well and feel relatively premium – but borrowing bits from a £30,000 hatchback isn’t a good look for a car that costs the best part of £200,000 once the options have been considered. But those are small issues in a quiet, comfortable space that’s packed with fabulous features. Our test car, for example, came with one of the best optional extras fitted to any 4x4 currently available. Between the two rear seats, there was an overgrown armrest with two small slots and what looked like an

enormous cupholder. Opening the armrest section, however, revealed two champagne flutes and space for a bottle of Bolly. The flutes fitted into the slots in the armrest, while the fizz could be chilled in the cupholder arrangement, effectively turning the Bentayga’s back seats into a mobile champagne bar. It’s features like this that prove the Bentayga is still a car to be driven in, rather than a car to drive. Sitting behind the wheel gives you access to plenty of power and performance, but the rear seats are the best in the house. Not only are they electrically adjustable, but they come with plenty of room to

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Drive | The RUTLAND Magazine

Bentley Bentayga V8 Price: £193,245 as tested Gearbox: 8-speed automatic Engine: 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 petrol 0-62mph: 4.5 seconds Top speed: 180mph Power: 542bhp

stretch out and bags of headroom. Oh, and the ride is better in the back. Not that it’s lumpy up front. The driver’s seat is plush and supportive in all the right ways, while the huge range of electrical adjustment means it’s comfier than a hot bubble bath. The driving position is pretty much perfect, too. Then you get oodles of power to play with. Bentayga customers get a choice of three different engines, but all of them have more horses than the Household Cavalry. For eco-conscious buyers (stop laughing at the back), there’s a 443bhp V6 plug-in hybrid, which will do around 30 miles on electric power before the petrol engine is required. If you want more performance, you can have the silky W12 petrol engine that pumps out 626bhp, or the engine we sampled: the 4.0-litre V8 with 542bhp. Although it isn’t the fastest version of the Bentayga, it is supposed to be the sportiest. Everything is relative, but it does weigh slightly less than any other Bentayga, and it’s designed to handle better too. For the most part, however, the Bentley feels like a big, wafty cruiser. The suspension is soft, the steering is surprisingly light, and the engine is quiet unless you really push it. At which juncture it emits a subtle, menacing growl. But if you go for the sportiest driving mode, everything changes. The suspension tightens up, disguising the car’s immense weight

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more effectively than you might imagine. It’s like the whole car breathes in. And then it unleashes the dogs of war. The V8 sounds like distilled gunfire, and the car accelerates like a two-and-ahalf tonne gazelle with a lion in tow. Getting from 0-62mph takes just 4.5 seconds. And that’s quite something when you’re driving a sort of fourwheeled Blenheim Palace. At full chat, this thing covers ground at 180mph. But as impressive as the speed may be, it’s the handling that steals the show. Where it feels relaxed and almost sloppy in comfort mode, winding the selector round to its sportier positions suddenly gives the car immediate control of its bulk. Rather than wallowing through corners, it dances through. It’s light on its feet. And the roll you expect from that massive body is kept in check surprisingly well. Yet the way this car works off-road is even more surprising. It might be a luxury SUV, but it can tackle surprisingly difficult terrain, clambering over boulders and wading through deep water with minimum fuss and the usual refinement. It’s like a luxury tank. Combine that with the opulent interior, powerful engines and startling handling, and the engineers in Crewe have finally made the Bentayga feel like a proper Bentley. It’s brilliant. Bentley Leicester, Watermead Business Park, Syston, Leicester, LE7 1PF tel:+44 (0) 116 490 8784, www.leicester.bentleymotors.com

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Drive | The RUTLAND Magazine

Elect lectrr ic Dre rea am If this new estate version of Porsche’s brilliant Taycan electric car is the future, then James Fossdyke reckons it’s very bright indeed

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The RUTLAND Magazine | Drive

apoleon Boneparte had his flaws – not least an inability to get up at a sensible hour and finish the job he started – but he had the propensity for great wisdom. His preference for staff with luck rather than talent may not have worked out in the end, but he described time as a “robber who steals what is most precious to men”. With one thing or another, time has flown by in recent years, and the pace of change has been faster still. This summer marks an incredible eight years since the Tesla Model S arrived in the UK, single-handedly changing the perception of electric cars. No longer lambasted as glorified milk floats, they became desirable and interesting and sexy – something Tesla owner Elon Musk celebrated with the brand’s subsequent creations. The Model S was followed by the Models 3, X and Y, albeit not in that order. Tesla was the company that made other car makers sit up and take note of electric cars. By launching high-tech, long-range electric cars and a brilliant, bespoke charging network to support them, Tesla became the brand to beat. Despite the quality issues that have plagued pretty much every model, and the inappropriately named ‘autopilot’, which isn’t quite as clever as Musk might have you believe, Tesla still has a firm grip on that crown. But the door is open for existing car companies to take Tesla’s mantle, and that’s exactly what Porsche has decided to do. The Taycan (that’s pronounced ‘tie-can’, in case you were wondering) is the brand’s first attempt, and what a car it proved to be. Better built than any Tesla, better to look at and better to drive, it was instantly in with a chance. The only issues were a slight lack of practicality and the lack of a reliable, plentiful charging network. The charging network is not a quick fix – and it may well require some input from governments and the rest of the car industry before it becomes a realistic prospect – but the practicality side of things is much easier to sort. So Porsche built an off-road estate version called the Cross Turismo, which instantly solved the standard car’s problems with rear headroom and made the most of the already plentiful legroom. Unfortunately, jacking up the suspension and fitting some chunky plastic body cladding didn’t

do much for the Taycan’s sporty credentials, and that rather defeated the point. So Porsche took the Cross Turismo back to the workshop, lowered it, removed the cladding and created one of the most beautiful cars on the road today. It’s called the Taycan Sport Turismo, and it’s about as good as electric cars get. Going back to the height of the standard Taycan has revived some of the sportiness, making the Sport Turismo feel pretty much identical to the saloon car on which it is based. Unless you’re really putting it through its paces, there’s no difference in the way the car corners, accelerates or stops. And even if you do see any change, it’s barely perceptible. That means the Sport Turismo is absolutely brilliant to drive, despite its slightly numb steering. It’s very nearly as good, in fact, as the 911 sports car. Except it’s faster than the 911, because the first Sport Turismos to arrive in the UK will be the GTS models, which come with two electric motors and a massive 510bhp. Unless, of course, the car is in Sport Plus mode, in which case you get an even more incredible 590bhp. With power heading to all four wheels, the acceleration is instantaneous, and the GTS Sport Turismo gets from 0-62mph in a mere 3.7 seconds. It’s the sort of acceleration that makes overtaking outrageously simple. And to the outside world, at least, it all happens silently. But inside, Porsche has fitted this strange noise generation system that synthesises an engine sound. The GTS models – both saloon and estate – have their own particular noise, and it’s rubbish. It’s some horrible, hollow cross between a dodgem and an old MG sports car that adds nothing to the experience, apart from a moment’s concern that something might be broken. Fortunately, it only really comes into play in the sportier driving modes, so if you leave those alone you’ll be fine. Do that and you also unlock the ability to cover more than 300 miles on a single charge. Officially, the GTS Sport Turismo’s range is rated at 304 miles – only a handful fewer than the equivalent four-door Taycan – but slightly less powerful versions will likely go even further between trips to the plug. If you can find the right plug, charging from 5% to 80% takes less than 25 minutes, but a proper fill-up will take

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Drive | The RUTLAND Magazine

Porsche Taycan GTS Sport Turismo Price: From £104,990 Engine: Two electric motors 0-62mph: 3.7 seconds Top speed: 155mph Power: 590bhp

longer thanks to the physics involved in lithium-ion batteries. Of course, winter weather will mean you can’t do as many miles as the official economy test suggests, but the same is true of any electric car. On my test drive, the car had around 200 miles of range to play with, despite the ever-present lure of that instant acceleration. It really is addictive, and it’s probably the biggest threat to hypermiling in the Taycan. But the battery isn’t the only bit of tech Porsche has fitted to the Sport Turismo. Like the standard Taycans, it comes with three touchscreens and a digital instrument display, but though they all work very well, that isn’t the impressive bit. Nope, Porsche has fitted a clever glass roof system that can be frosted at the tap of a screen, with liquid crystals in the glass allowing nine different panels to be switched on or off. That means

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you can frost half the roof or any part of it, depending on what you and your passengers desire. Yes, it’s a gimmick, but with the dark roof lining of the GTS model, it’s one that’s well worth specifying – if only to lighten the mood inside. Whatever you think of the gimmicks, and whatever trim you choose, the Taycan Sport Turismo is my new favourite electric car. Admittedly, that’s a bit like describing my new favourite serial killer – I don’t really like any of them and I certainly don’t want one in my garage – but the Taycan Sport Turismo, along with the Ford Mustang Mach-E GT and the BMW i4, is one of the few electric cars I might allow onto my drive. As with any other electric vehicle, the lack of range and charging infrastructure means I’d still need a big petrol or diesel car for long distances, holidays and winter (preferably a Porsche Cayenne or Panamera), but for any journey shorter than about two hours – heading into town, the school run or the commute – the Taycan is perfect. It’s spacious, quiet and luxurious, and if you want a sporty car without the guilt that comes with a massive petrol engine, it’ll fill that brief too.

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Home Serene Sanctuaries Rich in bold and fierce tones, Caffe Latte,

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How to Buy Art at an

Auction

Adrian Hill FRSA shares his approach and top tips for clients interested in securing their first work of art from auction.

here are very few things as rewarding as finding a piece of art that inspires you enough to want to own it and place it in your home. Indeed the moment a new work arrives and is hung or placed there is an overwhelming sense of belonging. Whereas in an art gallery artwork is priced, at an auction works being sold can deliver some exceptional circumstances. Hearts racing, prices rising, auctioneers whipping the room into a frenzy and the immeasurable satisfaction of having the winning bid can lead to quite the euphoric experience … as long as you’ve not just paid more than double what it was worth and five times more than you intended to! It is vitally important to ensure that prior to making this important decision, about your potential new purchase, that you have all the tools in place to secure the perfect piece at a price you are happy to pay for it. I use multiple auction houses from around the globe to source and secure works for clients, my galleries and my own private collection. Most operate in identical ways, with similar fees, taxes and royalties charged over and above the ‘hammer price’. However, I always use the same principles each time when making my approach to bid on any work at any auction. Research Your Artwork This for me is often the most important step, certainly if I am securing an investment piece for a client or for myself. The art industry is known for its famous forgers

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and fakes, indeed the television program “Fake or Fortune” has enlightened the public to the many pitfalls in securing a piece that isn’t quite what it seems. But if you are securing a work for you and your home it is important to understand exactly what you are buying. Is the work original, a one-off, unique? Is the work a print or a multiple i.e. are there many editions on the market, some could be signed by the artist or numbered in a limited edition. Is the work a copy or in the style of a famous artist … and has the ‘Lot’ (the number of each individual item in the auction) been listed correctly. Most of this information will either be provided in a catalogue from the auction house or available to view online on their website. This means that you can be quite confident the Lot you are interested in is exactly what you are looking to buy. If you are looking at a more significant piece, or a work for investment, the auction house should also be able to provide you with a provenance detailing where the work has come from, potentially who has owned it, if it has been auctioned before and the value the piece made.

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Condition This is generally where most of my potential purchases tend to hit a stumbling point. There is still nothing better than viewing the work in person and wherever possible this is always my preferred option. However, each Lot will have with it a condition report and if not immediately available can be requested directly from the auction house, usually by email. Additional photographs can be requested to ensure that, if you are unable to view the work in person, you get a jolly good feel for the condition of the piece. Things to look out for are signs of surface damage, including ageing, staining, foxing (orange/red spots on the paper surface), any repairs, light deterioration; where a work has faded in sunlight over time or water damage. The more pristine a piece the more likely it is to fetch a good price therefore this part of the process is imperative. Although the art restoration trade is quite remarkable, good restoration also comes with a good price, so the condition of works greatly affects their potential to score big on the hammer. Once you have established that the work of art is what you are looking for, is in a condition that you are happy

with, you will need to register with the auction house so you are able to bid on your chosen Lot. This is usually quite a straightforward process. You will need proof of identity, a passport or driver’s license, register a credit or debit card to your new account and ensure the auction house has all of your relevant contact details. Once you have provided the necessary information you will be allocated a unique buyers number which will be your reference when either using your paddle within the auction (the board you use to bid with), via the telephone or online bidding. You also have the opportunity to leave a maximum bid (book bid) with an auction should the work not be applicable for a telephone line or you are unable to attend or bid online… my advice would be, wherever possible, to bid live.

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“There are very few things as rewarding as FINISHING TOUCHES finding a piece of art that inspires you enough to want to own it and place it in your home”

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

Always Set Yourself A Limit This is a particularly easy thing to suggest, yet time and time again an auction brings the … ‘I must have this’ … beast out in the best of us, and a term called ‘auction fever’ takes over any rationale, with Lots selling for many, many, times their estimate and indeed market values. It is not as simple as looking at the ‘hammer price’ which is the point where a bidder has out-bid their competition and has the gavel knocked, by the auctioneer, at the rostrum to the tune of “sold”… sometimes to rapturous applause! It is the slightly more complicated breakdown of additional fees which make up the value you will eventually end up paying. To better understand the breakdown of the fees once the ‘hammer price’ has been established there will be the auction house ‘buyer’s premium’ added to the transaction. This will usually be a figure of 20% - 35% depending on the auction house and will sometimes also be reflective of the overall amount of the ‘hammer price’, reducing incrementally at certain monetary thresholds. This figure is also subject to VAT so be mindful to check if your ‘buyer’s premium’ is an inclusive or exclusive fee. Artworks over the value of £1,000.00 are subject to an Artist Resale Right (ARR) called Droit de suite which is a right granted to artists or their heirs to receive a fee

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on the resale value of their work of art. This is typically set at 4% of the total sale price (including buyer’s premium) but again can reduce to 0.25% if the sales figures reach certain levels, usually in the hundreds of thousands of pounds or above. However, these additional fees are imperative to take into consideration when approaching a purchase, setting a limit and not getting caught out. If a painting sells on the hammer for £5,000.00 and the buyer’s premium is 30% + VAT, adding in the Artist Resale Right at 4% means the price actually paid for the piece is £7,072.00. Don’t also forget if you are bidding online there can be additional fees for using third-party platforms like The Saleroom meaning the price can rise further still. It is for the above reasons why careful consideration to what your maximum ‘hammer price’ limit is going to be and sticking to it, will mean you get the piece for what you are really prepared to pay for it. Aside from the fees involved in making a purchase you will also need to pay close attention to recent sales of works by your chosen artist. Comparing similar works will give you a good indication of your ‘hammer price’ and how far you are prepared to go to secure the work. When bidding at an auction I tend to use my own guide, listing the low estimate auction price, rising in instalments to the price that I am prepared to pay including details of all the additional fees. This way I know exactly what to bid and what I will ultimately have to pay should I win the auction. This matrix stops at my limit, which usually means I will stop bidding. I cannot honestly say that has worked every time as a little bit of ‘auction fever’ can sometimes get the better of me! Hopefully, once you are the winning bidder and you didn’t go over your maximum bid, you will be able to collect your new acquisition in person or have it shipped to your home. Most auction houses will have a recommended courier at competitive rates but remember…this is also an additional cost. If you are buying from overseas most works will be subject to import duty meaning there could be more taxes to pay … but as long as you plan properly and work out your costs stage by stage then your new acquisition will become a lovely new addition to your home. Adrian Hill FRSA is the Managing Director of Adrian Hill Fine Art and The Gallery in Lees Yard, Holt, Norfolk and Adrian Hill Fine Art, The George Hotel, Stamford, Lincolnshire www.adrianhillfineart.com

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Ways to Say I Love You F R O M E L I Z A B E T H S TA N H O P E

#1 - Signature Candle No.10, £26.99 Having a burning candle in your home is so inviting and creates a sense of tranquillity at any time of the day. With a blend of delicate florals with clouds of soft musks, our No. 10 candle comes packaged in a crisp white box tied in a smart navy bow making them the perfect treat or present.

#2 - Whipped Edge Throw, Cream, £60.00 Our gorgeous pure new wool throws are just the thing to snuggle up in, get cosy on the sofa in front of a fire with one of our throws for a romantic evening in. They’ll look great draped over the arm of a sofa on any other day of the year as well. Generously sized and gorgeous to the touch, these are an excellent addition to any room.

#3 - Hydrangea Stem, £24.99 per stem They’re effortlessly elegant. Every bit as beautiful as the real thing our long Hydrangea stems are made of silk and will be perfect in your home all year round. Three stems tied together in tissue paper would make a lovely present for a loved one, they won’t be disappointed with these beauties.

#4 - Gold Rimmed Palm Etched Glasses, £13.99 each These chic glasses make drinks taste even better. Perfect for creating a relaxed and playful tabletop setting, whilst dreaming of tropical destinations from your home. The gold and the palm engraving really make these glasses special, we think they would be a dreamy addition to a destination wedding, what a way to spoil your guests.

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#5 - Candle Holder, £22.00 Nothing says romance like candlelight, so if you’re planning a romantic evening make sure you have these locally-made ceramic candlestick holders on your table. The scalloped edges are just lovely and would also make an excellent present. Pair with our jewelcoloured candles for a romantic mood.

#6 - Champagne Saucers, £60.00 Perfect for a romantic, moonlit picnic, gazing at the stars these gorgeous Champagne saucers with stars etched on them will be the envy of your friends. They come in a handy set of six so perfect for entertaining giving an extra sparkle to your drinks party.

#7 - Ceramic Cake Stand, £54.99 This is the perfect cake stand for your showstopper cake, its simple but elegant design will make your baking look even more inviting. Make your guests feel loved by adding this to your table for the next tea party you are hosting.

#8 - Alang Alang Diffuser, £119.99 This oversized reed diffuser will have your home smelling gorgeous day and night, the perfect gift for your home. It makes for a great statement piece, oversized in style for maximum impact. A lovely smelling house is a great way to welcome guests and this scent is just lovely. www.shoplizzieloves.com

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Q&A

with

VICKY FLOROS, INTERIOR STYLIST AND PROPERTY CONSULTANT AT MR AND MRS CLARKE ESTATE AGENCY How would you describe yourself ? I am an art and lifestyle enthusiast. I love to cook, entertain, host dinner parties (or all parties for that matter!). I love the art of entertaining - setting a table, curating the perfect playlist, dinnerspecific cocktails, and aperitifs with perfect wine pairings throughout. I have a 4-year-old daughter who is very quickly learning all of the above and seems to equally love co-hosting a party with me.

A bit more about you… I was born in Toronto, Canada to Greek parents. Greek culture was at the forefront of everything we did growing up. I went to Greek school and we travelled many times over the years to the homeland where I learned the importance of staying connected to your history and your roots. It is my Greek heritage that influenced my deep love for entertaining! Travel was a huge part of my upbringing and I have been told that the first place I ever asked to go to when I was just a little girl was New York City… this does not surprise me in the slightest! I have always taken huge inspiration from my surroundings and have always been wildly attracted to interesting cities with creative hubs, unique architecture, and a diverse population. I lived in Los Angeles for several years before moving to London for over 10 years and now find myself in an utterly gorgeous village

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in idyllic and peaceful Rutland. A very different reality to what I have known my entire life but I am very much meant to be where I am at this stage and when I need that fix I’m off to London (or Paris). My most recent plan was to really change the way the property industry in the UK presented their homes to the market by introducing home staging and interior styling to estate agents around the country as part of their selling process. This is how I met Mr and Mrs Clarke Estate Agency. I noticed their outstanding marketing, as their images on Rightmove and Zoopla were way above and beyond anything anyone else was putting out there and so, I approached them to be their in-house stylist. I love property and as someone who has bought, fixed, and flipped my own, I found the entire industry extremely disheartening here - primarily for the people who were trying to sell their biggest asset. A serendipitous opportunity presented itself to me when I approached them, and I actually ended up

training to become an estate agent in order to tie my interior styling and design life in with selling homes and being a property consultant. I now run the Stamford and Rutland area under the MMC umbrella. It really felt right for me to show people that there was a better and more advantageous way to present their homes to the market and get the most value out of it by doing so. I managed to connect both of my industries together seamlessly and I have found that it really works for the discerning people of Stamford and Rutland. I love that I can offer people my interior design service on its own or I can walk into a home and tell someone exactly what we need to do to maximise their sale value and then go on to sell it for them myself. It is so rewarding and offers me a wonderfully exciting work life. Who are your greatest influences? Hmm… I am mostly influenced by places rather than people. I have to say my design aesthetic lies somewhere between a chic Parisian cafe peppered with some California boho and a splash of the Mediterranean. I love relaxed elegance and find myself inspired by places that feel that way. Nothing too contrived and always poetic in its form. What have been some of your best experiences at work? When I owned my own creative events company in London we did some great work for Cancer Research and Save The Children. We designed site-specific immersive theatrical events for their biggest annual fundraising galas. It was exhilarating to bring to life Andy Warhol’s Silver Factory on one occasion in Abbey Road Studios or on another to have HRH Princess Anne and Helena Bonham Carter walk down the rabbit hole in our stupendously designed Alice in

Wonderland set at the Guildhall. Currently, I am working on a stunning barn conversion. We are redoing everything from every single piece of furniture to changing every colour on every wall. It is has turned into my dream job! Traditional vs contemporary style? A little bit of both mixed together. What would you consider your greatest achievement? I am still working on that, but I hope it will end up being that I raised a kind and fearless human being. What would your super-power be? Time travel - is that a superpower? www.mrandmrsclarke.com Instagram @vickyfloros

P.S. Last book you read? Beautiful World Where Are You, by Sally Rooney. I devoured it within 3 days and definitely shed a tear or two. I think she is a marvel. Dream buy? A vineyard in Burgundy.

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Hot Property

ONE CROWN PLACE, LONDON ONE CROWN PLACE IS A MIXEDUSE ESTATE COMPRISING 246 APARTMENTS, OFFICES, RETAIL, HOTEL, RESTAURANT AND PRIVATE MEMBERS CLUB, AN ALL-ENCOMPASSING DESTINATION THAT COMBINES ORIGINAL HERITAGE BUILDINGS WITH STRIKING MODERN ARCHITECTURE.

PRICES START FROM £1,050,000

he first UK project by Malaysian developer MTD Group, this meticulously master-planned estate was designed by internationally renowned architects, Kohn Pederson Fox (KPF) and features two prismatic towers of 28 and 33 storeys. Each tower has been designed to maximise views of London’s landmarks and floor to ceiling windows flood the apartments with natural light. One Crown Place is perfectly

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positioned to take advantage of one of the most vibrant neighbourhoods in London, on the edge of the City it enables residents to seamlessly transition between work and leisure without having to travel at all. There are ten Michelin-starred restaurants within a short stroll, as well as a variety of shopping options in the new refurbished Spitalfields market - which plays host to both designer outlets and independent stalls. As residents celebrate moving into

their new homes, the full range of exceptional residential amenities and apartment interiors can now be revealed. With first of their kind collaborations with some of Britain’s leading artists and designers, the care taken in design at One Crown Place brings something special to London property. The residential interiors by Bowler James Brindley define modern-day elegance. Each apartment provides residents with flexible living through

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clever zoning, with contemporary yet industrial design. Design highlights include the refined pairing of natural marble and warm hues of contrasting brass accents in the bathrooms alongside the brickwork porcelain tiling which echoes the industrial fabric of the buildings of the City and East London. A unique partnership with leading Italian brands B&B Italia and Arclinea ensures all residences benefit from bespoke kitchens and wardrobes, providing a custom product with unrivalled levels of detail and quality. Designed by award-winning interior design practice Studio Ashby, the seventh level of One Crown Place provides residents with a suite of amenities that include a residential lounge, work hub, private dining room, gym and fitness studio, treatment room, a cinema room and 2,475 sq ft of a private roof terrace, to retreat to and relax in. The residents’ lounge and work hub offer privacy and a quiet space to focus. With dedicated individual desks, as well as larger spaces for

communal work. Studio Ashby has created a luxurious space to work or study from. Responding to the rich creative neighbourhood, the walls are adorned with a selection of artwork sourced from local galleries and artists. Studio Ashby has also designed the development’s eleven premium apartments on the upper floors of the two residential towers that will be released later in 2022. The Sophie Ashby Collection comprises one and three-bedroom apartments alongside three-bedroom duplexes. All residents also enjoy all the trappings of safety and convenience, with 24-hour residential concierge services and on-site security. When residents wish to venture further afield, they may do so from Liverpool Street Station. Located four minutes away on foot, this transport hub provides access to the UK’s international airports with Heathrow airport only 33minuites on the new Elizabeth line due to open later this year. For sales enquiries, please contact CBRE on 020 7205 2697 or onecrownplace@cbre.com

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Hot Property

ADVERT HIGHFIELD FARM, ROOKERY LANE, STRETTON OAKHAM, RUTLAND A RECENTLY EXTENDED AND RENOVATED STONE-BUILT EQUESTRIAN FARMHOUSE, WITH STABLING, A MANÈGE, EXTENSIVE OUTBUILDINGS AND A HOLIDAY LET ANNEXE SET WITHIN 10 ACRES

£1,295,000 The Property Highfield Farm, formerly known as Rectory Farm, is situated in the popular Rutland village of Stretton. The house, which is unlisted, was originally the village post office and evolved subsequently into a larger farmhouse. The house has high ceilings and well-proportioned rooms and many original features. More recently, the kitchen has been refitted, a utility and orangery added as well as an integral one bed annexe, which has proved a popular holiday let. Ground floor accommodation is exceptional and consists of a large breakfast kitchen with tiled flooring, a central island and an Aga which opens up into an orangery, which links though to the annexe along with

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the utility. The remainder of the ground floor rooms comprise a sitting room, drawing room/music room and an office. Upstairs, the principal bedroom has a refurbished en suite bathroom and there are 3 further good sized double bedrooms as well as a recently updated family bathroom. The newly built annexe contains a beautifully fitted kitchen with granite work surfaces, a breakfast bar, twin ovens and extensive storage. This leads through to a sitting room and a double bedroom beyond with a en suite shower room and a walk-in cupboard.

Outside There are two driveways leading to the house, both approaching from the north. The eastern of these is the most

used and leads to the utility room and kitchen doors as well as the stabling, garaging and paddocks beyond. The garden is mainly located to the west and consists of a terrace adjacent to the conservatory, lawn, fruit trees and a kitchen garden area. A band of trees provides privacy and noise suppression from the road. To the south of the house is a stable block with 5 stables, a feed room and a tack room. Beside this is an immaculate and newly built 4-port garage with CCTV. On the rear roof of this are photovoltaic panels which feed into the electricity supply within the main house. To the east is a large wooden outbuilding which is used as storage. To the south is a large newly built steel tractor shed with 2 roller shutter doors

Home Homes and Interiors The RUTLAND Magazine |

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

and fitted with CCTV. Beyond this is a manège. The paddocks run to the east and south of the house. There are 2 field shelters and water connected to all paddocks. A footpath crosses one of the paddocks diagonally and this has been indicated with a pink line on the site plan.

Location Stretton sits in a position allowing easy access to the main local market towns, Rutland Water as well as mainline train services to London from Peterborough and Grantham. The village has a popular gastro pub, The Jackson Stops, with other notable eateries, The Olive Branch at Clipsham and The Wheatsheaf at Greetham a short drive away. Schooling locally is superb with Witham Hall preparatory school just 6 miles away. Uppingham, Stamford and Oakham schools are within easy daily reach. The highly regarded Bourne Grammar is 12 miles away. www.struttandparker.com

Key Features • Equestrian property • Recently renovated and extended • 10.47 Acres • 4 Bedrooms plus integral 1 bed annexe • 4 Reception rooms • Manege & stables • Quadruple garage • Tractor shed • Outbuildings • Successful airbnb annexe

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Hot Property

ADVERT

MAHOGANY HEIGHTS ROYAL WESTMORELAND ESTATE, BARBADOS MAHOGANY HEIGHTS IS A TRULY BEAUTIFUL TOWNHOUSE PROPERTY ON THE PRESTIGIOUS ROYAL WESTMORELAND ESTATE, WESTERN BARBADOS.

£1,250,000

long a palm-fringed, sun-drenched driveway is a collection of just 16 architecturally designed townhouses; Mahogany Heights. Step inside and downstairs you will find 3 spacious double bedrooms, including the generous master suite, which opens out onto the private patio, pool, and manicured garden. A fourth master guest room is also located on the mezzanine level. On the first floor is the bright and open living space, including a designer kitchen, with full height

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windows and a wide covered terrace perfect for relaxing or enjoying al fresco dining in the warm Caribbean evenings. As part of a luxury resort, the property is finished to the highest specification throughout, with every fixture, fitting and design detail of the utmost quality. Owning this property also welcomes you to the Royal Westmoreland community, with a wealth of world-class amenities at your disposal, not least the championship standard golf course,

private Beach Club at Mullins Beach, and 24/7 concierge assistance to name just a few. Discover the ultimate in resort living today. www.royalwestmoreland.com

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And Finally ... Relax and unwind in KLAFS’ space-saving Sauna S1, the first in the world that can retract at the touch of a button. When retracted, it’s a svelte 60 cm and extends to 1.60 m depth offering plenty of room to enjoy a relaxing sauna. The sauna is designed to be maintenance free so you can sit back and enjoy the pleasures of your sauna for years to come. www.klafs.com

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