Ladida - Issue 13

AU T U M N 2 0 1 6

FOR THE NORTH EAST AND N O RTH YO R KSHI R E

£2.50 WHERE SOLD

Couture CAKE Decadent Afternoon Tea

S TAY C L A SS Y ! R o n B u r g a n d y

Gent's guide THE

LUXE

RETREATS A-List Hotels

DAPPER LOOKS

The

FASHION I SSU E 1 3

Edit

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

AWARD WINNING HAIRDRESSING

HAIR ENVY? THEN VISIT ONE OF OUR FIVE LUXURY SALONS

Darlington 01325 468 994

Gosforth 0191 217 0217

Jesmond 0191 281 6714

Ponteland 01661 821 004

Wynyard 01740 644 690

www.hookerandyoung.co.uk Facebook/hooker&young Twitter @hookerandyoung

AU T U M N 2 0 1 6

LA DI DA MAGAZINE CLAVERING HOUSE CLAVERING PLACE NEWCASTLE NE1 3NG 0191 466 1028 EDITOR LINDA JANE WESTPHAL YOURMAJ@LADIDA.CO.UK ADVERTISING ADVERTISING@LADIDA.CO.UK FASHION DIRECTOR LIZ LAMB TRAVEL EDITOR CATHERINE HEWITSON DRINKS EDITOR ANGELA METCALFE

LaDiDaMagazine

LaDiDaMag

LaDiDaMagazine WE ARE A FABULOUSLY FRIENDLY BUNCH HERE AT LA DI DA TOWERS AND WE’D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU...TWEET US AND FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK SUBSCRIPTIONS SUBSCRIPTIONS@LADIDA.CO.UK DESIGN CURIOUS 12 WWW.CURIOUS12.COM ©2016 La Di Da. All rights reserved. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, no responsibility can be accepted for inaccuracies, howsoever caused. No liability can be accepted for illustrations, artwork, advertising or photographic material while in transmission or with the publisher or with their agents. All information is correct at time of going to print.

W

elcome to our Autumn Fashion edition! This is a very special issue for us at La Di Da Towers as we celebrate our third birthday. Our aim has always been to showcase all that was fine and fabulous about the North. The last few years have shown us that not only do we live in the most beautiful region in the UK, but one which is truly blessed with interesting, creative and entrepreneurial talents who are making a real difference in the world. And doing it on their terms, with inimitable flair and style.

We’d like to dedicate this issue to everyone who we’ve met in the last three years - our readers, our advertisers, our collaborators. We’ve been truly touched by how much you’ve taken La Di Da to your hearts, thank you so much for all of your support and love. The next few months bring exciting new developments and we can’t wait to share them with you. In the meantime we’ll be enjoying a few glasses of the fizzy stuff.

Chin Chin x

Linda x

A DAMN FINE READ FOR NORTHERN HIGH SOCIETY

6-7 Gin o Clock

We meet the gents behind Newcastle Gin

30-33 On Point

All the LFW and LCM trends hot from the catwalks OUR COVER SHOT

60-61 Shaken & Stirred

PHOTOGRAPHY JADE TURNBULL MODEL REBECCA MCALOAN HAIR KARA SCOTT MUA JO LEVERSUCH LOCATION HEADLAM HALL, COUNTY DURHAM CLOTHES NEXT

Live like James Bond

70-71 High Tea

THE most stylish Afternoon Teas

WITH THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

autumn

3

2016

The devil is in the detail

jo

LEVERSUCH

PROFESSIONAL MAKE-UP ARTIST www.makeupbyjo.co.uk • jo@makeupbyjo.co.uk • 07815 835211

News & Goss

Fabulous FOODIES FOODIE IN THE family? Check out the very stylish Malton Cookery School headed up by the talented chef Gilly Robinson. They have lots of fab courses coming up including masterclasses in Yorkshire Game, Seafood, Butchery, kids classes and a Dinner Party Masterclass with top tips on how to impress your guests. The school also does amazing dinners at the Chef’s Table with top chefs which are not to be missed. www.maltoncookeryschool.co.uk

Disney Magic Popcorn at the ready!

LEFT TO RIGHT: Heidi Rickelton (7) & Amelia Hewitt (4)

Gastro gardens

DISNEY ON ICE presents Frozen is coming to Newcastle’s Metro Radio Arena in October, and fans can enjoy some Disney fun ahead of the ice spectacular’s arrival at an exclusive season of films at Tyneside Cinema.

The Fantastical Disney Season will offer film-goers the chance to enjoy muchloved classics including Cinderella, The Little Mermaid, and Beauty and the Beast, as well as Frozen. Films start at Tyneside Cinema in late September. www.tynesidecinema.co.uk www.metroradioarena.co.uk

Hip n e e w o l l a H

WE LOVE THE Dr Marten’s Skelly shoe featuring skeletal foot bones, ‘glow-in-the-dark’ print and luminous green soles. Perfect for Halloween hipsters. www.drmartens.com

THE OPENING OF the Walled Garden at Wynyard Hall established one of the UK’s most exquisite rose gardens. Now they’ve created a fabulous Victorian-inspired Glasshouse, Potting Shed and Edible Garden.

They’re running a host of events including foraging, pumpkin carving, watercolour classes and Christmas wreath making. The food that they grow in the Edible Garden will be featured in the Wellington Restaurant and Café and available to buy through the Farm Shop and Potting Shed.

A great family day out. www.wynyardhall.co.uk

autumn

5

2016

Feature

GI BELOW: The Vaulkhard brothers

TY

N

N A Y D S

THEY OWN 14 CLUBS, COFFEE SHOPS AND BARS THROUGHOUT NEWCASTLE AND THE NORTH EAST AND NOW THE VAULKHARD BROTHERS EVEN HAVE THEIR VERY OWN GIN! LA DI DA MEETS THEM AT THE FABULOUS BEALIM HOUSE TO FIND OUT MORE...

B

ealim House is home to Newcastle’s very first gin and this super stylish and quirky bar and restaurant is rapidly becoming a firm favourite on the busy Newcastle bar and restaurant scene just a year since its opening.

Based in Gallowgate, Bealim House was originally built in 1896 and was a former print works. It was completely refurbished and features vintage tiles, varnished brick walls and an open-plan kitchen on the first floor serving bar tapas, sharing platters and a twist on classic bar food. Upstairs is a very cool event space ideal for weddings and private parties.

“With such a magnificent building and history in Gallowgate, we wanted to honour that throughout the design of the bar.You can see the theme in the printing blocks and historical printing memorabilia along with some amazing original features we discovered as we stripped it all autumn

back,” says Ollie Vaulkhard, who, along with his brother Harry, head up the Vaulkhard Group which owns Bealim House as well as a multitude of other businesses including Perdu, Barluga, The Quilted Camel and Central Bean.

As well as offering stylish surroundings, the bar and restaurant is home to the Newcastle Gin Company and is the city’s first authentic gin distillery bar and eatery complete with its own working Gin still.

The gin is Harry’s baby. He studied at the Institute of Brewers and Distillers in Edinburgh and is passionate about producing a really good quality gin.

For the last year he’s been working alongside Durham Gin but now Newcastle Gin has produced its first proper batch and there are plans to expand the brand into retail and into more bars.

“We’re really pleased with the flavours. It’s a London Dry Gin with a botanical basket and is unusual with hints of rose petal and hibiscus. It has a lot of orange peel and citrus elements and it’s great with Fevertree elderflower tonic,” he says.

Along with Bealim House’s own brand of on-site distilled gin, the drinks menu includes fine wines with tasting glasses, an extensive cocktail menu and a beer table complete with self-pouring pumps.

It has an eclectic but well thought out food offer which includes gastro food tapas, social sharing

6

2016

Feature

LEFT AND RIGHT Trendy Bealim House in Newcastle

It’s certainly paying off as the bar attracts a lot of the local great and good, who pop in after work for a Bealim’s famous Gin Ting and some tapas.

It’s an innovative concept and one which offers a really lovely evening out. But then innovation runs in the family. Their father was a very respected entrepreneur and not afraid to take a risk.

“Dad came to Newcastle in 1976,” says Ollie, “when things were very different then. He was the first person in Newcastle to put carpet down in the bar, it was the talk of the town,” he laughs.

“Thankfully things have moved on since then.”

platters, sliders and nachos and Handcrafted Burgers alongside dishes such as Roasted Romanesco Broccoli Salad, Chicken and Chorizo Kebabs, Thai Curry and Confit Duck Salad.

Desserts also include a sharing platter with the Dessert Plate and our favourite, a Gin and Tonic Sorbet made with Newcastle Gin, natch.

“It’s all about offering a customer experience,” says Ollie. “Customers are very savvy now about where they are eating and drinking you have to give people a lot of reasons to come to you.” autumn

• www.bealimhouse.co.uk

7

2016

Feature

BEHIND THE SCENES

Birthday Suit LA DI DA WAS SET UP TO CELEBRATE THE TALENT AND CREATIVITY IN THE NORTH SO WHAT BETTER WAY TO CELEBRATE OUR THIRD BIRTHDAY THAN BY COLLABORATING WITH TALENTED ARTISTS TO CREATE SOMETHING VERY SPECIAL FOR OUR FASHION ISSUE...

F

or the last three years we have been lucky enough to work with some of the most talented artists in the region. So when we wanted to commission a dress and hat design to celebrate our third birthday for our fashion issue, we knew exactly who to call!

We’ve worked with the super talented team at The Fashion Lab, based in Ampersand Inventions in Newcastle, on many occasions.

Currently they are involved in creating work to be exhibited in New York but they still found the time to design and create an amazing dress and neckpiece which celebrated La Di Da’s very first fashion shoot.

And of course, a birthday is a special occasion so we needed a hat. And not just any old hat, it had to be fabulous! Who better then than Dimesso Designs, who have made us some incredible pieces for our shoots over the years?

The design talent behind the beautiful dress was Helen McClafferty, Womenswear Designer and Illustrator at Osseus Design at The Fashion Lab. Helen handpainted the first ever La Di Da front cover on satin, using white and gold fabric paints. She then created a pattern for the dress

Words: Linda Jane Westphal

and strategically cut out the panels from the illustrated fabric to create an abstract patterned bodice. The skirt was hand pleated chiffon, with a net underskirt and a satin lining.

The hat was made by hand by milliner Elaine Humble at Dimesso.

“I called it the So La Di Da Hat,” says Elaine.

“I wanted to create a truly bespoke masterpiece especially for the third anniversary of the magazine. I regularly work with The Fashion Lab so we all collaborated to create an ensemble. For the hat I wanted something really striking and to incorporate the graphics of the magazine title LA DI DA in the actual font used for the magazine.

The look was completed with a neckpiece designed by Melanie Kyles at the Fashion Lab. “I really wanted it to embody the spirit of La Di Da and to carry the theme of celebration,” Melanie explains. “I decided what better for the anniversary than an embellished tiara shaped accessory, as a tiara was featured on the first cover issue and has since been seen amongst La Di Da pages on brides, fashionistas and even dogs! I wanted the design to be traditional but also playful like the magazine autumn

8

2016

itself, so I composed the design by using imagery from previous issues that I thought best communicated La Di Da, which for me included cocktails, classy cars, dazzling jewellery and beautiful shoes.”

Melanie chose leather as the main material, as not only is it wonderful to use for cut-out detail, but it is also the traditional gift associated with a three year anniversary. She used a metallic pewter snake-effect as the texture reflected the light really well and added depth to the design.

The Swarovski pearl detailing added regal qualities and toned down the gold embellishment to harmonise with the champagne metallics used in both Helen’s dress and Elaine’s headpiece, so that everything tied together for a striking and timeless collaboration.

The final result is stunning and we’d like to thank all of the artists behind the beautiful outfit and photoshoot who have created something truly special for our Third Birthday Issue.

• Check out www.ladida.co.uk for all of the behind the scenes videos, photos and to find out how the look was created.

Feature

autumn

10

2016

Feature Photographer: Christeeny www.christeeny.com Model: Grace Sharp at Savalas Models www.savalasmodels.com Make up and hair by Dodi Platts www.makeupbydodi.com Hat by www.dimessodesigns.co.uk Neckpiece by Melanie Kyles @The Fashion Lab Dress: Osseus Design @The Fashion Lab W TheFashionLab B @thefashionlabne www.osseusdesign.co.uk Cakes from Pet Lamb Patisserie www.petlambpatisserie.com Shot on location at Tyneside Cinema (www.tynesidecinema.co.uk) and Ampersand Inventions (www.ampersandinventions.com)

autumn

11

2016

Beauty

LA DI DA Loves GORGEOUS Lily-Rose Depp is the face of CHANEL’s new fragrance No 5 L’Eau. It features notes of lemon, mandarin, rose, jasmine and ylang ylang £68 chanel.com Other new launches include radiance booster Le Lift V-Flash £67 and Le Lift restorative cream-oil £91.

NEOM Scent to Make You Happy bath and shower drops £40 neomorganics.com

THE BEAUTY EDIT STYLE DIRECTOR LIZ LAMB CHOOSES HER TOP BEAUTY TREATS FOR AUTUMN/WINTER For super-sleeky hair tray PAUL MITCHELL’s Awapuhi collection of shampoo, conditioner and high gloss primer.

Priced from £7.95 paul-mitchell.co.uk

BEAUTY NEWS: LONDON bath and beauty brand MOLTEN BROWN has opened a new store in Newcastle’s Blackett Street.

We love their Coco and Sandalwood candle £36 moltenbrown.co.uk

autumn

12

2016

MICHAEL KORS Wonderlust £42 for 30ml

Beauty

MUST-BUY It’s THE beauty launch of the year

and VICTORIA BECKHAM’s collection for ESTEE LAUDER doesn’t disappoint. Choose from four city looks-we love London. Prices from £22 esteelauder.co.uk

LA DI DA Loves

Go super-glam with the Irresistible You hair collection from SAKS. We love this lookPolished to perfection with plenty of volume and waves.

For salons across the North East visit saks.co.uk

DKNY BE Tempted £50 for 50ml

Hot off the press TOM FORD has a host of hot new launches. The AW16 Runway colour collection features blush in Love Lust and stunning eye duos while for men there is a brow gel and lip balm.

We love the ultimate accessory- a stunning ivory and gold packaged palette for eyes and cheeks Priced from £60. All from Fenwick Newcastle.

Achieve younger eyes in an instant with MURAD eye lift firming treatment with eye pads £45 murad.co.uk

autumn

13

2016

UP Pucker

THE PERFECT LIPS CAN MAKE YOU LOOK YOUNGER AND MORE ATTRACTIVE BUT LIP REJUVENATION IS AN ART FORM AS WELL AS A SCIENCE. OUR EXPERT MEDICAL BEAUTY SPECIALISTS DR UZMA OLBRICH AND DR REBECCA HIERONS GIVE US THEIR INSIDE TAKE ON HOW TO GET ‘A’ LIST LIPS...

F

ull, shapely lips have been associated with beauty and youth throughout history. Some of the very first documented regeneration and early beautification treatments date back to ancient Egypt where enhancing the colour of the lips, moisturising and boosting plumpness were commonly performed.

Lip fillers are not everybody’s cup of tea. Done well, however, they can transform your face. They can give you a fuller, more defined smile and help turn the corners of your mouth upwards. They also give your lips a youthful appearance, make your thin lips look fuller and correct any asymmetry of your lips.

Lip augmentation and rejuvenation have become some of our most popular treatment. These are most popular with two types of client. People who want age defying lip treatment to achieve a more youthful look and who want to ‘turn back the clock’ and younger people who want fuller, more voluminous pouts.

Clients who approach us for age related lip augmentation usually don’t want anybody to know they have had treatment. The need for discretion and subtlety is paramount.

Fears of the dreaded ‘trout pout’ are abundant. I still want to look like me!”, are cries we frequently hear.

We start to experience age related changes to the lips and lower part of our faces when we reach our late 30’s and early 40’s. Age is a complex issue. Our faces begin to look more mature for multiple reasons. We know lip shape changes and the upper lip appears thinner as we age. However filling the upper

lip on its own may not achieve a very good result , it may, in fact, make you look older and out of proportion. Highly undesirable! Accurate assessment of not just your lips but also your whole face (from the front and in profile) is essential to get good treatment results.

On the flip side, we have the younger 18-34 year-old more socially media-aware crowd, heavily influenced by celebrities. Here the request is for large volumes and perhaps a complete change in lip shape. ‘Can I have two syringes in each lip?’ or “Can you give me lips like Scarlett Johansson,/ Rosie Huntington-Whiteley/Angelina Jolie?” is commonly asked. Subtlety and discretion are definitely not expected. In fact, augmented lips in this group can be a status symbol, a fashion accessory to be worn with pride alongside your Gucci handbag and Jimmy Choo shoes.

However, your lips are one of the most delicate parts of your face and should be treated carefully and with a great degree of respect. As service providers, we aspire to give our clients what they desire. As clinicians however we are obliged to professionally advise on what will best suit the face, lip shape and indeed health. With many young people wanting much larger and sometimes ‘extreme’ lips , the potential problems associated with lip injecting may be increased.

Lack of filler knowledge and lip anatomy understanding can lead to practitioners using either incorrect dense volumising fillers (too dense for the delicate lips) or using the correct filler but injecting far too much in any one visit. This can give rise to

Lips are not meant to look like two sausages. They have hills and valleys that make them desirable, sexy and unique to you...

autumn

14

2016

Health Promotion

Photography by Jade Turnbull (www.jadephotography-online.com)

Q LIP TIPS increased complications such as swelling, bruising, necrosis (tissue death), lip deformities, lumpiness, lip splitting and misshapen lips. Sadly, we have all seen bad results and complications such as these on the internet, in magazines, and other forms of media. Lips are not meant to look like two sausages. They have hills and valleys that make them desirable, sexy and unique to you.

Our lips are so important – they are one of the first things that people notice about us and are essential for laughing, talking, eating, kissing… our lives depend on them. Lip treatment can be wonderfully life-changing if done well but equally horrible if done badly. If you are thinking of having treatment please go to a reputable practitioner who is well trained and experienced and above all, enjoy your wonderful new lips!

• Dr Uzma Olbrich and Dr Rebecca Hierons practice at Queensway Skin Clinic. www.queenswayskinclinic.co.uk

If you are thinking about having lip fillers here are 3 points you should consider:

1

USE OF TEMPORARY FILLERS (Hyaluronic Acid or HA).

These are safe in the right medically trained hands, and fully reversible if you don’t like the results.

2

PROPORTIONS: Don’t expect to get Angelina Jolie lips – they do not suit everybody! The final size and shape of your lips needs to be in proportion to your face. We will take into account your profile, the projection of your lips as well as

autumn

15

2016

how they look front-on and from a ¾ view. Assessing your lips in function (whilst speaking, smiling and laughing) is also really important. Although lip augmentation can take years off an older woman, over augmentation and not respecting the ratio of the lips to the face can have the reverse effect and add years on.

3

AVOID SAUSAGE LIPS: The best way to avoid looking like you have sausage lips is to ease into lip filling. If you want a significant increase in volume it is very important to do this augmentation slowly and over a number of visits. Visit somebody who has a good understanding of lip anatomy.

Love your lips…

Tailor-made just for you... beautiful, kissable lips. At Queensway Skin Clinic our approach to lip augmentation is both a science and an art.

To find out more about natural lip enhancement book a free 30 minute consultation with Dr Uzma Olbrich or Dr Rebecca Hierons online at www.queenswayskinclinic.co.uk or call us on 01642 352 445.

170, Queensway, Billingham, Teesside TS23 2NT 01642 352445

in association with

Health

PAUL BAGULEY IS A RESPECTED CONSULTANT AESTHETIC/PLASTIC SURGEON WHO PRACTICES IN THE NORTH EAST. MB CHB BSC FRCSCPLAS FRCSED PLAS. WWW.PAULBAGULEY.COM

Surgeons notes

PHOTO CREDIT: Tyne Tees Model Rebecca Everett shot by Jade Turnbull (www.jadephotography-online.com)

Off the shelf, creams do not work other than to moisturise the skin...

Beauty is only

SKIN DEEP

W

e are constantly reminded of ‘the seven signs of ageing’ and ‘is absorbed by seven layers of skin’ on television and media in general. I have often wondered what the seven layers of skin are and how a cream can possibly descend through what is essentially a waterproof protective layer around our bodies.

So. A quick lesson in anatomy.

The skin is basically two layers.The epidermis and the dermis, but you may want to consider the fatty layer below the dermis, or

the hypodermis, as a layer.

Either way, the stratum corneum is the outer layer comprising dead, tightly packed cells, rich in keratin. This is the layer that can be exfoliated. If this layer is not removed, it can produce dull looking skin.

The stratum lucidum is below the stratum corneum and is a layer of thick skin cells that protect the lower layers. This is waterproof and cannot be breached by any cream or lotion that you can buy off the shelf.

The stratum granulosum is below the autumn

19

2016

stratum lucidum. The cells here are densely packed and again this layer is a dense protective, waterproof layer that form a barrier.

The stratum spinosum is the thickest layer of the epidermis. This is where the cells start to degenerate and produce keratin. This layer provides flexibility to the skin.

The stratum basale is where the skin cells divide and reproduce, upwards through the layers to eventually be abraded off the skin and float away, or washed down your plughole!

What does this mean regarding treatments?

Well the media would have you believe that the skin can absorb all kinds of micro-proteinpseudo-keratin type of creams whereas in reality you can only treat the top layer.

Alpha hydroxyl acids and glycolics, as well as TCA peels are great at refreshing the skin and do affect appearance. These should only be performed by recognised practitioners, trained to perform these treatments.

The message? Look in detail at the adverts and look at costs –more expensive is not necessarily better. Off the shelf creams do not work other than to moisturise the skin. Rely on a medically-designed lotion or cream that is available through medispas and acid treatments that will remove the top ‘single’ layer of skin, the stratum corneum. More than this, hydrate, don’t smoke, eat well, drink moderately and smile!

Health

The SUPERMODEL

work out Photography by www.carrostudio.com

IF YOU’VE BEEN TO A PILATES CLASS AND THINK YOU KNOW WHAT PILATES IS…THINK AGAIN. OUR FITNESS QUEEN NICOLE ABDUL PUTS BODHI, CREDITED FOR GIVING SUPERMODELS THEIR FABULOUS BODIES, TO THE TEST….

T

he most talked about fitness class in LA has arrived in the North East. Precision Fitness is the first place outside of London where you can do Bodhi aka ‘The Supermodel Workout’. This is a new type of Pilates that uses suspension ropes to suspend part or even your whole body while doing Pilates exercises.

Gwyneth Paltrow, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Alessandra Ambrosio are all said to be fans of Bodhi, the suspension-Pilates class, because it improves posture, core strength and muscle tone.

I couldn’t wait to try it out so I headed down to Precision Fitness in Newcastle to find out more.

The Pilates studio is set in stunning countryside in Horton Park, Blagdon Estate. I was met by Adrian, the owner of Precision Fitness. Adrian has run his studio in the converted farm buildings at Horton Park for the last three years and is one of the top Pilates and movement experts. Having trained intensively on the Bodhi system in the US, he is excited to be able to bring it across to the North East.

Other types of workout are available at the studio, such as Barre, Reformer, or traditional matwork Pilates.

I was taken to the Bodhi studio and was faced with something that looked a bit like the TRX. Four Bodhi ropes are suspended from a frame with handles and straps at the ends, from which you suspend using your body weight and gravity, to perform a set of exercises. This is a Pilates class like no other; it works up quite a sweat and gets results fast. Whilst suspended you do various Pilates exercises but its hard…very hard. Its like doing Pilates on the strongest of espressos! It’s no autumn

wonder that this workout gets results…fast.

I suspect more than a few of models headed for a Bodhi workout before treading the catwalks this month to get a lean body with a super strong core.

What’s more, not only will it get you looking fabulous but for people with back and joint problems it can improve their functionality and get them back to doing things they love.

“Being suspended allows you to really push your stretches and work your abdominal, back and arm muscle groups to build a strong, lean body and a core of steel. The suspension ropes can also be used to assist movements on the floor, making it ideal for beginners,” Adrian explained.

Although its celebrity fans are commonly female the Reformer and Bodhi sessions attract a mixture of both male and female clients.

Adrian teaches small group Bodhi classes so you really get a lot of one to one attention at every workout. I also tried the Reformer machines (Pilates using a machine with a moving platform) and I have to say, I’m hooked on the Pilates offer at Precision Fitness. Its high intensity, gets results, and is really fun - I’ll be heading back for more.

• www.precisionfitness.org.uk

20

2016

Bodhi classes take place on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at Precision Fitness. Prices start from £11.50.

Personal Bodhi training sessions are also available.

Telephone 01670 785759.

Health

TRIED& TESTED

LOLA love

Rockliffe Hall, C A U D A L I E REVIEW: LINDA JANE WESTPHAL

W

hen we heard ‘through the grapevine’ that Rockliffe Spa had teamed up exclusively with French beauty company Caudalie to offer its range of products and treatments, we had the award winning spa on instant speed dial. The glamorous, ground-breaking skincare brand combines the latest scientific techniques with the ancient secrets from their vineyards in Bordeaux and harnesses the powerful benefits of grape-seed polyphenols.

I was treated to the Vino Source Hydrating facial based on an assessment of my skin and this was carried out by one of Caudalie’s vinotherapists Lisa. The facial didn’t disappoint. It started with a cleanse, and then toning with their Grape Water and Beauty Elixir before a thorough exfoliation.

Immediately the sensory nature of the treatments became apparent as the elixir was sprayed onto me like gorgeously scented rain. The smell was divine, full of floral and botanical notes that instantly made you feel serene and contented. Lisa then used a massage tool on my face before massaging with her hands. The massage was superb and very different from any I had had before. Caudalie train their team in French massage techniques and you can almost feel your skin responding to the expert manipulation. A mask was applied which smelt heavenly whilst my hands and arms were massaged and my feet and hands sprayed with fleur de vigne fragrance.

My senses were engulfed with exquisite floral notes which added to the feel of total indulgence and relaxation. As the mask was taken off, my face was again sprayed with the Beauty Elixir before the Beauty Ritual of serum, eye treatment and moisturiser was applied.

It was unlike any other facial I had enjoyed before and was a sublime, sensory experience. The products have gorgeous textures and aromas and my skin was absolutely glowing. I instantly went and bought the Beauty Elixir which I’m told a lot of top make up artists keep in their kit. Not only does it keep make up looking fresh, smooths the skin and delivers a glowing complexion but the smell instantly makes you feel good – perfect for keeping stressed fashionistas happy! Caudalie’s anti ageing range is particularly impressive – and has been accredited by the Harvard Medical School for its properties.

The Caudalie treatments are all in keeping with the vineyard theme, and include a range of massages and facials including the Wine Makers Massage, Crushed Cabernet Body Treatment and Premier Cru Facial.

WWW.ROCKLIFFEHALL.COM

autumn

21

TEAM LA DI DA fell in love with the new LOLA make up range when we used it on a fashion shoot. Make up artist Jo Leversuch chose to use the high street brand after being super impressed with its durability, depth of colour and fantastic product range. And the best news is that it’s real value for money - a must have for any make up bag. Available only at Marks & Spencer. www.marksandspencer.com

BEAUTY SLEEP WE’VE FALLEN HARD for luxury beauty brand, Kiss the Moon.

Based in N Yorks, this super stylish range has become a real celeb favourite. The award winning range uses nature’s most soothing essential oils to help you relax before bed and deeply nourish the skin overnight. Try their heavenly Bedtime Bath Infusions, a sleep-inducing blend of

2016

essential oils with natural salts, flower petals and white tea to detox and soften the skin before bed. Follow with a dab of After Dark Balm, spray their gorgeously scented pillow mist and then pop on the black silk eye mask and enjoy a beautiful night’s sleep while channelling the glamour of Audrey Hepburn.

What’s not to love? www.kissthemoon.com

H

Beauty

eA

DL

iN N i G

HAIR GLITTERATI AND MULTI AWARD WINNING HOOKER & YOUNG HAS NO SHORTAGE OF FABULOUS TALENT ON THEIR TEAM. THE LATEST STAR CAUSING WAVES IS SUPER STYLISH JONATHAN TURNER, SHORTLISTED FOR NORTH EASTERN HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR. WE TALK HAIR AND TAKE A LOOK AT HIS BREATHTAKING WORK…

autumn

22

2016

Feature

autumn

23

2016

Beauty

INSPIRATION? I am constantly inspired by the people I work with.

Everyone is so passionate and they love what they do, which shows every day. We are like one big family at Hooker & Young. Coming from a fashion background, I have been taught to always research for inspiration so I forever find myself enthused by the world around me. I am particularly inspired by visionary designers such as John Galliano, Comme des Garçons and Gareth Pugh. Gareth is a huge source of inspiration to me, and even more so as he is from the North East.

FAME? I am so thrilled and honored to be shortlisted for North Eastern Hairdresser of the Year. This is the second year I have entered and I have been shortlisted both times!

It is pretty nerve-wracking on awards night when you see your work projected onto the big screens in front of 2000 people, but it’s an overwhelmingly proud moment.

LOVE?

AW 16?

I love the diversity - every day is so different and I never know what to expect. I love meeting new clients and getting to know people. There is no better feeling to me than giving somebody a hair style that they love!

‘Nude’ hair is definitely the hottest colour trend for AW16. These new tones have already been spotted on celebrities such as Cara Delevigne and Amanda Seyfried. With nude hair, there is an even balance of both warm and cool tones which cancel each other out to create ‘nude’. This colour palette is what has been used in the images I have put forward in my British Hairdressing Awards entry and I absolutely love it!

In terms of cut, a lot of celebrities have cut their hair into long bobs this year- a trend that has become known as the ‘lob’. With the power of social media, it’s easier than ever to keep up with our favorite celebrity’s hair styles and who’s the latest to have a restyle!

• Jonathan Turner works at Hooker & Young Jesmond 0191 281 6714. www.hookerandyoung.co.uk

autumn

24

2016

Beauty

I

certainly don’t want to wish those warm summer months away but I do get so excited about the Autumn season. The Autumn months allow me to add drama and create much stronger looks.

I love taking inspiration from the Fashion Week catwalks shows which I am lucky enough to work on in London and Milan.

There are so many ‘key looks’ for AW 16 from dark berry lipsticks to graphic eyeliner. With this look I wanted to show how to create a modern approach to wearing smoking black eyeliner in a much softer way which has been influenced by the shows of Diane Von Furstenberg, Ellie Saab, Givenchy and Chloe.

Create the look:

1

The look requires a natural and luminous foundation base. I used Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation.

Make sure you find the correct colour for your skin tone, you don’t want a foundation that is too dark for the autumn months.

drama

2

The eyebrows are enhanced for a more natural finish using the latest amazing product by Charlotte Tilbury Legendary Brows in “Cara”.

QU E E N

3

LA DI DA’S BEAUTY INSIDER AND TOP MAKE ARTIST, JO LEVERSUCH, SHOWS HOW TO CREATE THIS SEASON’S HOTTEST CATWALK LOOKS...

This look is all about adding smoky eyes at the top and bottom of the lash with lashings of black eyeliner smudged for a ‘lived in’ look using Pat McGrath Khol pencil in Noir. To create this feel, keep the eyeliner smudged by using a cotton bud or a small, firm eyeshadow brush.

PHOTOGRAPHER: Rebecca Elizabeth Tate www.rebeccaelizabethtate.com

DESIGNER: Genevieve Florence Devine www.instagram.com/genevieve_florence_devine/

MUA: Jo Leversuch www.joleversuch.co.uk

STYLIST: Emma Townsend www.emma-townsend.format.com

MODEL: Grace Sharp of Savalas Models www.savalasmodels.com/women/grace-sharp/

autumn

25

2016

Feature

COME AND SEE

WHAT ALL THE

FUSS IS ABOUT... autumn

26

2016

Feature

THE SPA AT RAMSIDE

DISCOVER YOUR PERSONALISED SENSORY SPA EXPERIENCE Tel: 0191 375 3088 | www.ramsidespa.co.uk | enquiries@ramsidespa.co.uk

The Spa At Ramside Hall Hotel Carrville Durham DH1 1TD autumn

27

2016

Health

autumn

28

2016

Health

KING

Smiles of

HE SKIS WEARING A BOWLER HAT, HAS HIS OWN CIDER BRAND AND A CIRCUS BIG TOP IN THE GARDEN...WE MEET PAUL AVERLEY, PROBABLY THE UK’ S MOST FABULOUS DENTIST...

Photography by Jade Turnbull (www.jadephotography-online.com)

I

t’s easy to spot Paul Averley in the gardens of Jesmond Dene House where we have arranged to meet; he’s wearing a three piece pin striped suit and is accompanied by a Brittany spaniel called Archie.

We’d been looking forward to meeting Paul ever since we heard that he and a group of friends dressed up in pin stripes and bowler hats, were flown to the top of a mountain in a helicopter and skied down!

Paul heads up the enormously successful Queensway Dental Clinic in Billingham. One of the largest dental practices in the UK, it attracts patients from all over the country based on word of mouth recommendation.

He set up the practice after a stint of working for other people and deciding that he ‘wanted to run my own show’. He chose Teesside because his wife was from there and the rest is history. The practice continued to grow and he was able to bring in highly qualified specialists and skilled dentists who all thrived under his inspirational management style.

He is perhaps best described as maverick in a very good way.

“I had an unusual upbringing in the sense that I was born on a coral reef in East Africa and lived there till I was seven,” he says. “My dad was an architect and my mother the daughter of a missionary and they built a house on the beach at Mombasa”.

Paul came to Newcastle to study dentistry for his degree and ended up meeting and then marrying his wife who was studying to become a linguist. They now have three daughters and a house in autumn

Northumberland as well as a home in Newcastle.

Paul has a ‘Richard Branson’ quality to him. He is a man who relishes new challenges. He learned how to sail and within a few years raced and was 16th in the world championships in Hong Kong. Now he is a ‘hobby farmer’ in his spare time and he even has his own cider brand Guyz Gold. He also has a full sized circus ‘big top’ in one of his fields.

His sister uses it to teach circus skills to performers.

His latest hobby is wood turning and he makes exquisite wooden bowls in his ‘wood shed’. “We had six and a half thousand trees and a storm blew lots down and we were left with loads of wood which seemed a waste so I taught myself wood turning,” he says.

Whatever he turns his hands to he seems to excel at. Now he has a new project, the opening of a boutique ‘Queensway’ clinic in Jesmond.

“We have a team of specialists in every area but all under one roof, a holistic approach to dentistry. We don’t believe in dabbling – you have to have the knowledge to know what you don’t know. There has to be a very real depth of experience and expertise available to our patients and a full range of services.”

Given Paul’s track record to date we have no doubt it will be a huge success. We look forward to seeing a bowler hat clad dapper dentist strolling around Jesmond soon.

29

2016

AW16Trend Edit

Fashion

The

Ashley Isham

Ong Oaj Pairam

All photography shot by www.carrostudio.com for La Di Da at London Fashion Week

Ashley Isham

Ong Oaj Pairam

Ong Oaj Pairam

Embroidery

Christopher Raeburn

House of Mea

Ruffles

AF Vandervorst

AF Vandervorst

House of Mea

AF Vandervorst

Vin and Omi

Velvet

Checks autumn

Big Knits AF Vandervorst

30

2016

Ashley Isham

Fashion

House of Mea

Vin and Omi

Danielle Romeril J. JS Lee

Pam Hogg

Metallics

Ladylike

Ashley Isham

J. JS Lee

Christopher Raeburn

Ong Oaj Pairam

AF Vandervorst

Fur & Feather

Christopher Raeburn

Statement coats

Christopher Raeburn

Vin and Omi

AF Vandervorst

Luxe sporty autumn

31

2016

Ashley Isham

AW16Trend Edit

Fashion

The

Lathbridge By Patrick Cox

Baartmans and Siegal

All photography shot by www.carrostudio.com for La Di Da at London Collection: Mens

Universal Works

Hats On Sean Suen

Christopher Raeburn

70’s Knits

Louis Leeman

Regalia Casely-Hayford John Smedley Christopher Raeburn Sean Suen

autumn

32

2016

Fashion

E Tautz

Casely-Hayford

Checks & Tartan

E Tautz

Casely-Hayford

Barbour

E Tautz

Maharishi

Lathbridge By Patrick Cox

The Bomb

Fur & Shearling

Christopher Raeburn

Christopher Raeburn

1205

1205 Christopher Raeburn

Casely-Hayford Casely-Hayford

autumn

33

2016

Puff Power

Fashion

FA S H I O N insider EVER WANTED TO RUB SHOULDERS WITH THE FASHION GLITTERATI AT LONDON FASHION WEEK? OUR FASHION PAP KAT CARRUTHERS GIVES US THE INSIDE SKINNY ON WHAT IT’S LIKE TO BE ON THE FROW AT THIS YEAR’S EVENT… All photography shot by Kat Carruthers and her team at Carro Studio www.carrostudio.com

A

BELOW: Will .i.am at London Fashion Week

s the autumn chill sets in alongside my post-fashion week delirium and we swap our Pimm’s for a Hot Toddy, we have a glamorous and fun SS17 wardrobe to covet. I am sitting Carrie Bradshaw – esque in our centre point apartment, serenaded by a sax player on the streets outside, running through the fabulous 65 shows we attended.

Ashley Williams stood out with her teenage angst River Phoenix inspired collection. Fei Fei Cicada took my breath away at the V & A museum presenting clothing with a couture feel that was aligned to the designer’s experience at Alexander McQueen and John Galliano. Barbara Casasola’s runway was a delight of timeless pieces in fine fabrics limited to earthy tones whereas at Paul Costelloe, linen was the fabric of choice for tailored white and natural-toned summer coats and dresses, contrasting with playful ruffled pieces.

The presentations were astonishing with Steventai’s pastel-blouse clad ‘nerds’ stood on swings, Peter Jensen’s collection ‘Rhoda’ with gardening girls in a greenhouse complete with muddy knees and

autumn

Markus Lupfer’s botanical set with bunny print pyjama style tops. Belstaff unveiled Liv Tyler’s second capsule collection with a vibe of the English countryside and the 60s rock and roll characters drawn to it. Expect a feminine touch in combination with Belstaff ’s military roots. Martine Jarlgaard pushed the boundaries with a mixed reality fashion show in which life-sized holograms were viewed via virtual reality goggles. Futuristic holograms were also used at Sadie Clayton to present the sci-fi sculptural collection.

Burberry made a venue move to Makers House in Soho with Cara Delevingne dressed impeccably in a gothic cape and black body art. Topshop did not disappoint with their show space at Spitalfields Market attended by FROW regulars Ellie Goulding and Alesha Dixon. No fashion season would be complete without a touch of Gandy. David Gandy joined Jim Chapman at Oliver Spencer who has revolutionised the fashion week experience with a see-now buy-now experience by Vero app. See-now buy-now was the biggest fashion week culture change across a number of shows at which customers could purchase the collection immediately rather than many eager months of waiting.

Aspinal of London know how to treat us La Di Da ladies with not only an enviable collection of SS17 handbags but a delicious accompaniment of Belgravia based Peggy Porschen cakes. Champagne was readily given along with personalised leather covered notebooks, foiled and initialled in person by a hand

34

2016

Fashion

LEFT: Kate Moss at London Fashion Week RIGHT: Sadie Clayton BELOW: Fei Fei Cicada

Burberry made a venue move to Makers House in Soho with Cara Delevingne dressed impeccably in a gothic cape and black body art. autumn

35

2016

operated press. Everything a girl could wish for, all in the setting of the magnificent Claridges’ Ballroom!

No tip sheets (prominent guest cheat sheet) needed for the red carpet arrivals at the Business of Fashion 500 gala dinner. The star-studded dinner was headed up by none other than Kate Moss, Will.i.am, Alexa Chung and Caroline Winberg. The business of fashion 500 were selected as the most influential movers and shakers who are shaping the global fashion industry. Other notable attendees included British Vogue editor-in-chief Alexandra Schulman, Erdem Moralioglu and British Fashion Council chairman Natalie Massenet.

Now onto coverage of the new season interiors at London Design Festival followed by photographing local girls Coral Patrick, Sarah Gething, Taylor Hamilton, Lucy Hough and Robyn Lucas at the Miss Great Britain final in Leicester before heading to Paris Fashion Week. I can’t wait to tell you about it in my next column! Until then I will relax with a celebratory glass of fizz, Chin Chin!

Fashion

Queen

STYLE TOP FASHIONISTA KATE WALTON IS CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF HER FASHION BOUTIQUE, VOGUE FAVE HAVETOLOVE IN GOSFORTH, NEWCASTLE AND HAS RECENTLY INTRODUCED HER OWN BRAND, HAVETOLOVE, WHICH ALREADY HAS A CELEBRITY FOLLOWING. SHE JOINS AS OUR NEW COLUMNIST TO GIVE HER EXPERT TAKE ON ALL THINGS FASHION…

Hey Mickey you’re so fine kicked off Isabel Marant’s fashion show.

A big clue to the next trend, the eccentric EIGHTIES. Think one shoulder dresses, wide belts, metallic fabrics, velvet trouser suits and slip dresses. Try the lace detailed camisoles peaking out under knitwear. Wear with boyfriend jeans or leather pants for a more Uptown girl look. Lace layering is more flattering so avoid slip dresses unless you have the confidence to carry it off.

SPORTSWEAR has always influenced fashion but now fashion influences sportswear.

New York Fashion Week saw fashionistas wearing branded sportswear tops styled with fashion items such as crisp white shirts and Lacoste board shorts or hoodies over a shirt and skirt combo. But it’s the Aussies who are leading the way in fashionable activewear .

We’ve just introduced Australian brand Mink Pink activewear along with our own Havetosweat range. If you are brave enough, mix sportswear classics with evening wear accessories, try a varsity or bomber jacket with jeans and a glittery or metallic sandal to channel the metallic trend which is huge this AW16.

autumn

38

2016

Fashion

KHAKI is here to stay and being a blonde I love this trend. Olivia Palermo was spotted in a khaki military shirt and skirt on the frow and Burberry saw khaki parkas worn over pinafore dresses. Invest in some over the knee high boots, they are a little looser on the leg this season and I love the perfectly low taupe suede over the knee boots at Daniel footwear at £229 (www. danielfootwear.com)

Havetolove.com 3 Hawthorn Rd, Gosforth, Newcastle NE3 4DE

WIN WIN WIN

to Love and La Di Da’s To celebrate both Have chance e are offering you the birthdays, Have to Lov ers so uch vo t gif ve olo vet to win £100 worth of Ha us ulo fab of their latest you can stock up on all ur yo of oto ph a do is take looks. All you need to Tag d an e ng lle cha le sty favourite outfit for our ner tolovefashion. The win ave @h d an g ma ida @lad e Se er.

20th Octob will be announced by and conditions. Have to ms ter for .uk www.ladida.co hion ing their 10 years of Fas Love are also celebrat p po so til 16th October by offering 10% OFF un m .co ove w.havetol down and see them. ww

OFF THE SHOULDER was huge for SS16, and is here to stay, as seen on the catwalk of David Koma at London Fashion Week AW16. A trend that suits most of us, at Havetolove we have moved into the off the shoulder loose ribbed knits and cold shoulder fitted ribbed knits. Polo necks are back and on the catwalk these were worn under everything, mainly to dress down evening wear. I love layering and polo necks are perfect for this. Keep it simple and team with boyfriend jeans, a bomber jacket or denim.

FOLLOW @HAVETOLOVEKATE FOR DAILY FASHION STYLE AND TRENDS AND CHECK OUT HER BLOG: WWW.KATEHAVETOLOVE.WORDPRESS.COM

autumn

39

2016

Advertorial

AW16

CHILD’S PLAY CHLOE CHILDRENSWEAR, Embroidered Logo T-Shirt, £45.99

LITTLE MARC JACOBS, Reversible Leopard Print Hooded Coat, £127.99

STONE ISLAND JUNIOR, Nylon Rip Stop Padded Jacket, £297.99

LITTLE MARC JACOBS, Cherry Print Purse, £52.99

MONCLER ENFANT, Tipped Collar Long Sleeved Polo, £69.99

HUGO BOSS KIDS, Contrast Front Tracksuit, £123.99

A L L C LOT H E S AVA I L A B L E F RO M P S YC H E , T H E AWA R D W I N N I N G LU X U RY FA S H I O N R E TA I L E R .

Psyche, 175 Linthorpe Road, Middlesbrough, TS1 1AG | www.psyche.co.uk

autumn

40

2016

Promotion Metallic Pleated Skirt £46 White Frill Top £24 Lace Jacket £40 Silver Sequin Bag £24 Velvet Court Shoes £38 Necklace £12

Fabulously

FA S H I O NA B L E

PREPARE TO FALL IN LOVE WITH NEXT’S STUNNING NEW AW16 COLLECTION. ITS’ AUTUMN WINTER LOOKS ARE SO BEAUTIFULLY ON POINT WE COULDN’T RESIST SHOWCASING A FEW OF OUR FAVOURITE AW LOOKS...

autumn

41

2016

Feature LEFT: Leopard Top £24 Retro Jacket £34 Badge Jeans £30 Leopard skin belt £14 RIGHT: Embroidered sweatshirt £34 Embroidered Jeans £35

autumn

42

2016

Promotion

TOP LEFT: Green Jacket £70 White Frill Top £24 Check Skirt £30 ABOVE: Green Dress £55 BOTTOM LEFT: White Frill Top £24 Velour Skirt £25 Necklace £22 Snake heels £62

autumn

43

2016

Promotion

LEFT: Peach Lace Dress £70 RIGHT: Embroidered Dress £80 Red Handbag £25

All clothes supplied by Next www.next.co.uk Next has stores throughout the North East.

For store locations visit www.next.co.uk

Models: Rebecca Everitt and Rebecca McAloan both Tyne Tees Models www.tyneteesmodels.co.uk

Photography: Jade Turnbull (www.jadephotography-online.com) Styling: Rio Beadie MUA: Jo Leversuch (www.joleversuch.co.uk) Hair: Kara Scott (www.karascotthairstylist.co.uk)

Shot on location at the beautiful 17th century Headlam Hall Hotel and Spa, Headlam, County Durham, DL2 3HA www.headlamhall.co.uk Telephone 01325 730238

autumn

44

2016

Feature

LEFT: Check Grey Trousers £28 Pink Jumper £22 Zebra print belt £20 RIGHT: Fox Print Shirt £20 PVC Trousers £24

autumn

45

2016

Advertorial

AW16 FOREVER UNIQUE, Tassle bead clutch bag, £149.99

FOREVER UNIQUE, Lurex full skirt, £109.99

FOREVER UNIQUE, Off the shoulder all in one body, £49.99

BOURNE, Pamela shoes, £138.99

A L L C LOT H E S AVA I L A B L E F RO M P S YC H E , T H E AWA R D W I N N I N G LU X U RY FA S H I O N R E TA I L E R .

Psyche, 175 Linthorpe Road, Middlesbrough, TS1 1AG | www.psyche.co.uk

autumn

46

2016

Feature

Artful ly elegant This AW16 brings oversized and chic takes on classic looks for truly grown up glamour...

autumn

47

2016

Fashion

“

Fa s h i o n i s a r c h i te c t u r e : I t i s a m a t te r o f p r o p o r t i o n s COCO CHANEL

” Modern Rarity Collection, available from John Lewis, Eldon Square

autumn

48

2016

autumn

49

2016

Feature

autumn

50

2016

Fashion

Modern Rarity Collection, available from John Lewis, Eldon Square

autumn

51

2016

Fashion

FASHIONISTA KATIE MOULDING IS THE CEO OF THE LITTLE BLACK DRESS AGENCY AND MUMMY TO FASHIONISTA IN WAITING CONNIE. SHE OFFERS HER INSIDER KNOW HOW ON SUPER STYLISH TOTS...

Fashion

talk

W

ell it’s only taken me six months to put pen to paper (or fingers to laptop) after having my little girl but there is a good reason for this. She was 10 weeks premature and spent a long time in special care so it’s taken me a while to adjust but now that I am, let the baby clothes shopping commence.

I struggled a little at first with dressing her; I mean what do you put a teeny tiny person in other than a boring baby grow? I have finally got into the groove and found some amazing little gems that are easy to chuck on and off but pack a little teeny tiny fashion punch. I have to say my all time favourites are the Blade & Rose bits; they do the cutest little leggings with pictures on the bottom like cupcakes or skulls and cross bones (depending on the mood you are in!).

The secret is to keep an eye on their website, www.bladeandrose.com, as they have a little warehouse sale section with up to 80% off (a fashionable baby at a snippet of the price in the shops, we like!). They are super soft and ideal for colder days as they are snuggly and warm.

The other thing I love are her sensory rabbit slippers. A friend’s mum actually bought these for her so I can’t really take the credit for this find. The ears are scrunchy which entertains her for hours and gives

The Valentino rock studs it is with Connie in matching pram shoes me a chance to lay face down on the floor and regroup. The clever little shoes come in a gorgeous little box.You can find the sensory slippers in pink or blue at www.rufusrabbit.co.uk There are lots of places that sell baby bits that are teeny tiny versions of adult items which are cute but I wanted to keep her squidgy and adorable whilst I

can and dress her in ‘proper’ baby clothes - after all, this gives me plenty of photo opportunities for her 18th birthday, cupcake leggings, rabbit shoes and all!

The evenings are now spent sat with an obnoxiously large glass of wine thinking about what to dress my baby bug in the next day. I can wake up to do a night feed at 4am and still be awake at 5am thinking about what baby bug will look her best in.

Is this normal behaviour or have I really lost the plot now? Anyway my mental stability aside, last night’s pondering wasn’t too bad, it was a fairly easy choice for a jaunt to Yarm to see the girls for a coffee (code for wine! Coffee goes cold before we can drink it so a pointless exercise.) The Valentino rock studs it is with Connie in matching pram shoes. These are a ridiculous and impractical choice what with the infamous cobbles of Yarm High Street but nevertheless we wear them anyway and I teeter cautiously around with baby bug in her pram with the baby blanket strategically placed over only her legs so people can see her (my) choice of shoes for the day.

Oh and how it was worth it! She has her ‘aren’t my shoes gorgeous’ face perfected but if you ask me no one really cares about the shoes it’s her happy, beaming face they see first.

• www.thelittleblackdressagency.co.uk

autumn

52

2016

LEFT: Blade and Rose leggings BELOW: Rufus Rabbit sensory slippers

Feature

autumn

53

2016

Gents

SPEEDIAL

<

THE LOOSE LOOK

Mr Sam Wall www.mrsamwall.co.uk @mrsamwall

Here we have a style that has moved on from the slick quiff. The top is longer towards the front whilst the back and sides are kept clean and sharp.

To achieve the finished look, blow dry into a quiff position and apply a soft clay. The soft clay will help achieve it’s very natural loose look and prevent it from setting into position allowing movement throughout the day.

Harry B’s - The Art of Hair and Beauty, 5 Kenton Lane, Newcastle, NE3 3BQ 0191 285 5276

LOOKS <

WANT TO LOOK ON POINT FOR AW16?

ONE OF THE UK’S TOP MEN’S STYLIST MR SAM WALL TALKS US THROUGH THE LOOKS THAT MATTER THIS AUTUMN...

THE MESSY LOOK This style is a longer version of the crop. The back and sides are scissor cut, giving a softer finish whilst the top is texturised throughout. Blow dry the hair forward allowing a fringe to appear but once product is applied, mess the hair up with your fingers. I used boost powder which adds support and a fibre to highlight texture.

GET THE LOOK Sam Wall’s Top 3 products.

autumn

54

AMERICAN CREW

1

Boost Powder, adds volume and provides support when used with other American Crew products. Great for creating a dry look.

2016

<

Dapper

THE LONG LOOK Recently I have seen an increase in men with long hair or guys trying to grow their hair out. With long hair on men it’s vital to maintain that masculine shape and keep a strong structure. The beard is optional, however it adds to the masculine look. Keep the underneath tidy yet natural but add shape around the cheek bones.

2

Moulding Clay, easy to apply giving a soft shiny result.

3

Grooming Cream, provides a stronger hold with a shiny finish.

Each American Crew product can be used in different ways allowing you to achieve more than one look. Products available from Harry B’s.

Advertorial

So how did you end up at the award winning Psyche?

“I was approached by Steve Cochrane, Managing Director at Psyche in Middlesbrough, who had just previously opened the flagship store as it is currently.

Steve asked me whether I wanted to come and manage the Tailoring Department which, at the time, was a 2,000 square ft. department within the building of Psyche. I took him up on his offer and took on my new role as Manager of Tailoring at Psyche in 2004. The department became such a success that we had to expand the business to its current position of a high spec, 8,000 square ft. department on the first floor of Psyche.

A Cut above

And the rest is history?

“Definitely! Year on year, business has expanded to a position where the department has an annual turnover of £1.6 million. We now employ five talented full time staff in our tailoring department, all trained in suit fitting and alterations.”

LEAVING SCHOOL IN 1977, PSYCHE’S HEAD OF TAILORING, MIKE BAXTER, HAS BEEN IN THE FASHION INDUSTRY FOR ALMOST 40 YEARS. WE CHAT TO HIM ABOUT HIS CAREER AND THE TRENDS HE LOVES FOR AW16…

Which designer brands do you champion in your tailoring department?

“We house some of the leading designer tailoring brands including Paul Smith, Hugo Boss and Ralph Lauren and more, where each brand has its very own, individual shop fit designed to match each particular brands character. This makes the whole shopping experience with us effortless and exciting all at the same time. We also recently discontinued suit hire preferring instead to offer unworn, brand new suits retailing from £149.99.”

How did you get started in the tailoring business?

“Well, leaving school at 16, I started out my career by joining the team over at Arthur W. Fosters, the leading, high end Menswear store in Middlesbrough. There, I learnt my trade by performing a lot of bespoke tailoring with made to measure suits. I had the honour of training under the incredibly talented tailors that had been in the business since the 1940’s. Those accomplished men taught me everything that I know today. Believe it or not, it was six months before I served my first customer as I was training hard and learning everything I needed to know in order to be the best tailor I could be.”

So where did you go from there?

“I spent seven great years working at Arthur W. Fosters before moving to Grabham Menswear. There, I spent three years perfecting my trade, based in Middlesbrough. This then propelled me on to my first Managers role at Barrington Browns in Redcar. I spent the next 15 years here before moving onto Greenwoods for three years.

What are some of your favourite AW16 Tailoring trends that we can expect to see instore?

“There are so many, I don’t even know where to start!

We’re seeing slightly more understated designs coming into play this Autumn-Winter season. Check blazers, knitted ties and tweed pieces are a few more trends that will be all over the tailoring floor at Psyche.

AW16 is throwing it back to the 70’s with the iconic trend of turtle neck knits partnered with a blazer.

Celebrities such as Paul Newman and Steve McQueen made this trend iconic in the 70’s and we’re seeing high profile fashion icons like Will Smith, Nick Jonas and even Drake sporting the combo for AW16.

“Look out for heavy fabrics to keep you toasty in the bitter British winter weather such as Cord make for a perfect statement when incorporated into a slim fit trouser. Looking into shoe trends, Grenson, Baker and Loake offer to finish the outfit with heavy Goodyear welted brogues and boots.”

TO SEE ALL OF PSYCHE’S AUTUMN-WINTER 16 COLLECTION, VISIT THE STORE AT 175-187 LINTHORPE ROAD OR VIEW ONLINE OVER AT PSYCHE.CO.UK

autumn

55

2016

✁ CLAIM A

FREE SILK TIE OR LADIES SCARF!!

TO CELEBRATE LA DI DA’S Third Birthday, the fabulous fashionistas and fashion misters at award winning luxury fashion retailer Psyche are offering our readers a FREE £29.99 silk tie or Ladies Luxury Scarf worth £35.99. Both come in a variety of colours and designs. No purchase necessary, while stocks last. Only one voucher per person.

All you have to do is fill out your details below and bring this voucher into the Psyche store at 175 Linthorpe Road, Middlesbrough, TS1 4AG to claim your free tie. Please note this offer is valid only while stocks last so don’t delay!

Name Address

Email

autumn

56

2016

Gents

Grooming

WITH MARK BURNS CASSELL

SPA REVIEW

Wynyard Hall Spa

Gents afternoon tea photography Kevin Gibson

D

elightful reader, have you ever been to Wynyard Hall? Have you sauntered through the beautiful halls, dripping with gilt mirrors and fabulous fresco work, awe-struck at the soaring ceilings and sublime plasterwork? Have you strolled through the landscaped gardens, skipped across the old hump-backed stone bridge and gazed in wonder down aisles of gently rustling trees, where the very breeze seems more refined? Of course you have – you’re reading La Di Da magazine, for goodness’ sake; why, I bet you’ve been for high tea at Wynyard more times than I’ve had pedicures.

You may have guessed, then, that today’s report is all about Wynyard’s somewhat lesserknown spa hideaway. Wynyard Hall is familiar territory to me, being one of the select country house Christmas shows I choose to exhibit my ceramics – you must come down to the hall’s Mirror Room this year to get an autograph and pick up a smart hand made pot, in fact. This little aside being exactly that, the spa was largely unknown to me until today. A delightful conversion of Sir John’s former boathouse, this bijou little gem has all the essentials for any hedonist on the look-out for a day of blissful decadence: steam rooms, sauna, outdoor hot tubs overlooking the house’s wonderfully tranquil lake and landscaped gardens – and first class treatments, to boot.

Before being whisked away into my treatments, I began by making the most of the steam and sauna facilities. After opening every pore across this mortal frame, and with robes and slippers securely donned I padded through to meet Faye – a lovely lady with a reassuringly firm handshake. The order of the day: a full body Matins Massage (the invigorating option, naturally), and a Go Guy Facial.

The high-quality spa book states the Matins is ‘An invigorating and energising massage designed to leave you full of vitality’. Reader

– afterward, I felt ready to run up Everest. The treatments here are as tailored as my latest tweed suit, and Faye enjoys getting her elbows in. She roared through my glutes like the Grand Central through Sunderland Station. Temple Spa is the product range chosen by Wynyard Spa, and a eucalyptus deep breathing ritual was used to begin the treatment. This detoxifying massage is designed to eliminate toxins, and Faye worked from my head to my toes in unerring pursuit of this aim.

A double-cleanse Go Guy Facial followed, with brushes to cleanse, tone and exfoliate this humble potter’s visage. The spa’s selected product range, inspired by Mediterranean fruits, herbs and of course, olives – was employed to deep cleanse, revive and nourish.

A ‘breakfast smoothie’ scrub brightened my skin, incorporating a cocktail of antioxidant fruits: papaya, apple, and pear. A Quench rejuvenating facemask followed, enriching my skin with Echinacea, avocado, and blackberry, full of anti-ageing properties. I am 28 after all, you know.

A foot and scalp massage followed: ecstasies! I stifled the urge to weep and beg like a child for just a few moments more as I was brought back autumn

57

2016

to life with the same invigorating eucalyptus inhalation that began the treatment. Morosely, I tore myself from the treatment room determined to set a date to come back for more indulgence.

My spirits brightened at the thought of afternoon tea; I went for the Gentleman’s option. A friendly spa host staggered out bearing a slate laden with pastrami and pickle sandwiches, pressed egg mayonnaise flatbreads, scotch egg, pork pie, cheeses, homemade pickle, a cheese scone, fruit cake, trifle, coffee – and a whiskey, to finish me off completely. I sat al fresco by the jetty enjoying the lakeside view. Truly, Wynyard Spa must win the award for finest grounds hands-down.

Verdant rolling lawns gracefully meet the still, calm waters, and trees comfort the far banks as far as the eye can see. I even met Graham and Glenda, the spa’s two famous geese who know their own names – and who also know their social etiquette well enough to maintain a respectful distance from recumbent guests.

Reader, you are missing a treat by not giving this place a try – it’s magical. For now though, there’s a bubbling hot tub calling my name. I shall humbly take my leave of you, returning to the delights of still waters, geese, and gentle bees kissing the lily-pad flowers in rhythm with the quiet pop of prosecco corks.

Today I reviewed the Media Matins massage, priced at £65 for 60 minutes, or £85 for 90 minutes, the Go Guy Facial, priced at £65 for 60 minutes, and the Gentleman’s afternoon tea, priced at £26.50. My bespoke recommended products were the Moisture to Go combination skin moisturiser, priced at £34 for 50ml, and the Dual Act Wet & Dry cleansing lotion for combination skin, priced at £19 for 150ml.

Gents

AWARD WINNING HAIRDRESSER SAM WALL IS CREATING A REAL BUZZ IN MEN’S HAIR STYLING. HE TELL US ABOUT WHAT DRIVES AND INSPIRES HIM...

“I

started hairdressing at a late age of 22. I was travelling around Australia with no idea what I wanted to do with my life.

Then some random guy offered me a haircut in a hostel for 10 dollars, it was a terrible cut but from that moment on my aim was to travel the world cutting hair.

I was lucky enough to come straight back from Australia and land a junior role in my home town West Malling, in a beautiful salon called Lucas Hair.

Lucas Hair is still very close to my heart to this day as they really made me fall in love with hairdressing.

They sent me on private education courses in Mayfair, London and I qualified within a year. After moving on and working in high end salons around Kent such as SW1 I then took the leap to work in

male grooming with Alan Jones. Again this is where my journey really started to unfold as Alan was a superb educator.

I try not to follow too many people on social media as I like to try and create my own story however I’m a massive fan of the Bomb Squad which include Alan Findlay, Martin Fox and James Beattie.

These three guys really know how to break rules and push boundaries to the next level. I’m also hugely inspired by Banksy as I love what he stands for. autumn

58

2016

Gents

The most recent exciting photoshoot I have done recently was working with Fabio Borini – which was really special and I recently worked behind the scenes for ‘Lanterns on the Lake’ music video ‘The Crawl’ which was hard work but super satisfying. We worked on a lot of models that evening but the outcome was incredible.

I’ve been lucky enough to win a few awards and even more lucky to be up for more. However the last award I won was a tough challenge. It was ‘The British Master Barbers Creative Pompadour’ and was the most precious to date as I really did put my heart and soul into creating that overall look.

People always say to me you enter competitions to win..... but honestly I enter for the pure buzz of competing and have the mindset that I never lose, I either win or learn.

I absolutely love every aspect of working in Harry B’s in Gosforth, being on the road and educating others but most of all the real thing that pushes and drives me is the creative side, I love to create and put my personality into my work no matter who or what I’m working on..... Telling my story through my imagery is what I thrive on. This shoot is about a storm and the fact we can ride the storm no matter what life throws at us and come out stronger. ”

Photography www.rhiannonbanks.com Models Afnan Prince, Adam Gunton and Lee Pollard.www.tyneteesmodels.co.uk Hair Sam Wall

autumn

59

2016

Feature THE PLANE A Cessna Citation X Jet. At a starting price of $22 million, the Cessna Citation X is the world’s fastest super mid-size business jet. With an upgraded Rolls Royce AE3007C2 turbofan engine, this is the ideal luxury private jet for anyone looking to ride in style. It boasts superior power and efficiency with its British made Rolls Royce engines.

Price starts at $23 million. http://cessna.txtav.com/en/citation/x

LUST L I ST THE ULTIMATE BOYS TOYS FOR YOUR INNER 007….

THE SUIT Dege & Skinner has been around since 1865 and is one of a few family-run bespoke tailoring houses to remain in Savile Row and the only one to have a permanent shirt-cutting service based in the shop.

Renowned experts in civilian and sports clothing, as well as the tailoring of military uniforms, the Skinner family has been dressing royalty, businessmen, professionals, the military and discerning individuals for over a century and a half.

THE SUBMARINE

THE LUGGAGE

The Deepflight Super Falcon Mark II submarine, designed by British engineer Graham Hawkes.

DeepFlight’s personal submarines are a new type of craft that enable the unique experience of ‘flying underwater’. The oceanic world is opened up for personal exploration and adventure.

Graham also designed the Mantis sub marine used in the James Bond Film ‘For Your Eyes Only’.

Globe Trotter Luggage.Your initial calling card for style. Globe Trotter is the classic modern luxury English case. The worlds most famous luxury luggage, it has been hand crafted in Hertfordshire, England since 1932. Fans include Captain Scott of the Antarctic, Winston Churchill and the Queen who used them for her honeymoon. They feature modern designs hand crafted on antique Victorian presses. Look out for the Spectre or Money Penny range.

Price around $1.6m.

Embroideredwww.deepflight.com/

Suit prices start at £950. http://dege-skinner.co.uk/

Prices start around £1200. https://www.globe-trotter.com/ autumn

60

2016

Gents THE HELICOPTER The AW609 Tilt Rotor plane/helicopter combines the vertical take off of a helicopter with the comfort, speed and range of a private jet. Flying at speeds of up to 275 K and cruising at altitudes of up to 25,000 ft, the AW609 can perform long-range missions with up to nine passengers and two crew with a full fuel load. Or, if you wish to be a little more traditional, the same company also makes the Agusta or AW169 a 4.6 tonnes twin-turbine helicopter, widely recognised as the luxury helicopter for the man on the move.

Around $8.5 million. http://www.leonardocompany.com/en/product-services/ elicotteri_helicopters/aw609

T H E YAC H T The Hunton XRS43 Yacht is the most exclusive luxury high performance yacht made in England. This is the boat predicted to be used in the next Bond film. It was employed to stunning effect in the movie Sahara with Matthew McConaughey and Penelope Cruise.

Hunton is a British boat builder known for creating yachts with high performance, stability and quality. The Hunton XRS43 is the one to covet, with up to 1324 HP, good head height, a spacious salon, separate heads and shower, a well-appointed galley and a double berth, with teak decking, leather upholstery and bespoke design finishes as standard. A unique luxury yacht that turns heads in any port.

XRS43 prices start at £470k http://www.hunton.co.uk/

THE CAR Aston Martin is still the Bond car par excellence and the new DB11 boasts great looks and the performance to match. A twin turbocharged 5.2-litre V12 engine with 600bhp and 700 nm maximum torque. 0-62 in 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 200 mph.

It sports an aluminium body with Aeroblade™ technology to harness the airflow for maximum stability in all conditions and is the most powerful DB ever built. Effortlessly elegant and luxurious.

Price around £155k. http://db11.astonmartin.com/

T H E WATC H The Red Robin watch by Robert Loomes. This watch is completely handmade in Stamford by Robert Loomes and his craftsmen, with painstaking attention to detail. The case is made from a solid 18ct gold casting and fitted with its sapphire, they are the only firm in England to cut and polish their own sapphire crystals. A beautiful piece of engineering.

THE MOTORBIKE

Price POA. http://www.robertloomes.com/

Thruxton R price starts at £11,700. http://www.triumphmotorcycles.co.uk/motorcycles/classics

The Triumph Thruxton R is a beautiful café racer which boasts a 1200 cc six speed engine with a peak torque of 112NM. A stunning modern classic that is great to ride and delivers the thrilling sound of a British racing twin. Equipped to the highest specification with twin floating Brembo disks, Brembo monobloc calipers, Showa Big piston forks, Öhlins rear suspension and Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa Tyres.

autumn

61

2016

Treat someone special this Christmas…

Our gift vouchers are attractively presented and available for everything from an overnight stay to a relaxing day spa experience. Available to purchase in person at Headlam Hall, Headlam Spa or online at www.headlamhall.co.uk/gift-vouchers

Also this Christmas...

Festive Luncheons Enjoy a festive three-course lunch with family or friends in the charming setting of Headlam Hall.

Available Monday to Saturday from 5th – 23rd December

£27.50 per person (private dining rooms available)

Snowball Christmas Party Nights To include a three-course dinner and dancing to a live band in the stunning Coach House Suite.

Friday 9th December – SOLD OUT Friday 16th December – SOLD OUT Friday 23rd December – TICKETS AVAILABLE

£40 per person Minimum party size of 8 people

For more information on events at Headlam Hall this Christmas please visit www.headlamhall.co.uk/christmas

ww w.he a d l a mh a l l . c o. u k

H e a d l a m H a l l H e a dl a m N ea r G a in fo r d Tees d a l e D L 2 3 HA Te l : 0 1 3 2 5 7 3 0 2 3 8 r ec ep tio n @ h ea d l a m h a l l . c o . u k

Food & Drink

SIMON HICKS IS HEAD CHEF AT THE FABULOUS LORD CREWE ARMS IN BLANCHLAND. HE HAS A STELLAR PEDIGREE INCLUDING HEAD CHEF AT THE ACCLAIMED SOHO HIX. HE SHARES ONE OF HIS FAVOURITE AUTUMN RECIPES…

Food E d

T

he onset of Autumn is the most thrilling of times at The Lord Crewe Arms. The moorlands break out into a deep purple heather bloom, Rowan berries line the windy country roads and an exciting buzz greets the hotel daily when guests tumble down from the tops after a hearty day out adventuring. So whilst we are saying goodbye to the sunshine, it’s hard not be stirred by the spoils that the cooler breeze brings to the hills, particularly in the kitchen.

Throughout the autumnal season our menu changes twice daily and each dish showcases the best of the harvest. This particular number celebrates the first crop to arrive in the kitchen and one that usually gets chucked into a Sunday roast; Bashed Autumn squash with cottage cheese and honeyed oats. I think it’s a little star in its own rights and the perfect opener to set you off before you tuck in to a delicious helping of Grouse and game crisps, with a cheeky side of bread sauce of course.

INGREDIENTS 1 Butternut Squash 2 handfuls of oats A generous squeeze of honey Seeds or nuts of your choice A dollop of cottage cheese

Continue to cook until they take on a dark colour.

They will harden up when chilled, but don’t worry about any clumps because they are the good bits.

Once the oats are chilled you can mix with any other seed, nut or herb you wish. See it as a good way to use up those nearly empty packets of nuts in your cupboard (and if you’ve left overs this oat mix is also lovely for breakfast on some yoghurt).

METHOD 1R oughly dice your butternut squash (this works well with left over pieces or those hard to get pieces near the seeds) and place in a saucepan with a touch of oil (we use a rape seed oil). Then cover with Clingfilm and lightly cook for about 10 minutes. Remove the cover and using a whisk start to ‘bash’ or stir the squash until it becomes both soft and mashed. Take it off the heat, season well, let it cool, and that’s it ready.

2W hilst the squash is on, start with the oats. Put a couple of handfuls on a baking tray and squeeze some honey over the top quite liberally but not drowning it. Bake on 180 degrees for a good 15 minutes and then carefully remove the tray and stir. autumn

3T o assemble the dish place the room temperature squash in a bowl, top with a good quality cottage cheese, sprinkle with your oat mix and viola, a great little autumn opener kissed with the lightness of our departing summer…

This is the kind of dish that can be made ahead and kept for two days. Pull it out as quick bite for dinner with some toasted sour dough or a good wheaten bread.

• www.lordcrewearmsblanchland.co.uk

63

2016

Food & Drink

O

pen arms

I

AFTER A 20 YEAR LOVE AFFAIR MARK BURNS CASSELL FINALLY GOT TO STAY OVERNIGHT AT HIS BELOVED LORD CREWE ARMS. BUT DID IT LIVE UP TO HIS IMPECCABLY HIGH STANDARDS?….

have a confession to make, dear reader.

This isn’t my first visit to the Lord Crewe Arms. I first visited when I was a slip of a boy, brought to Blanchland for a bite of lunch by my doting grandparents. Even at that tender age I was overcome with the magic of the place and it became a two-decade-and-counting-long love affair with The Lord Crewe and everything to do with it.

Twenty years later, the Lord Crewe has changed a lot. I remember clearly weeping at the bolted oak door the week the place

closed for a top to toe refurbishment from which it would emerge, radiant and majestic as the jewel in the crown of Weardale pubs – a twelfth century butterfly, the envy of all around it. The place oozes quality – from the weight of the cutlery in the Abbot’s dining room to the weight of the towels in the fabulous en suite rooms; from the Lefroy and Brooks bathrooms to the thickly luxuriant bedroom carpets.

However, for all the exquisite refurbishment of the place, the Lord Crewe holds something more. The place is a veritable fortress, with exposed stone walls five feet thick, and it has an energy, something indefinable; it radiates from the walls. Here is a place where priests were hid in chimney nooks against border raids, and where Abbots have entertained prestigious guests for centuries. This is a place autumn

64

2016

where, in the fire-lit corner of a low-beamed room late of an evening you may almost think you caught a glimpse of a merry old Canon moving expectantly through the shadows to a glass of long-since quaffed spiced mead.

After much thought and deliberation I had painstakingly selected Vincent to be my sidekick for this mission – on the basis that, as much as I hate to admit it, he is the one person I know who can rival myself when it comes to looking dapper in a three piece tweed. We were greeted by the lovely Lisa who checked us in before congenially whisking us off to our fabulous little suite, Whiteheaps. Lisa explained that each room in the square of cottages is named after a former lead mine. Ours came equipped with a tremendous little lounge boasting a stone inglenook fireplace, wood burning stove, and of course, a crisp fresh copy

Food & Drink of La Di Da magazine waiting beside the espresso machine and home-made fudge, which I ate before Vincent spotted it.

After unpacking our little portmanteaus we descended into the crypt bar where we met the effortlessly charming Damien, whipping up miracles with his cocktail shaker. We enjoyed gin paired with locally picked and homemade rose hip cordial with fresh lemon balm to make what must surely be the finest pre-dinner drink known to Northumberland.

We ascended the stone stairs to the Abbot’s dining room, a wonderfully-presented space with a warming Borders feel: chock full of more antlers than a dapper chap could shake his umbrella at, tartans, rustic tables and exposed wooden floors.

This is a place where, in the fire-lit corner of a low-beamed room late of an evening you may almost think you caught a glimpse of a merry old Canon…

This, reader, was the perfect setting for the forthcoming sensation of flavours our taste buds were about to receive, and for which we were truly thankful. I indulged in buttered queen scallops and Vincent partook of partridge breast with sea aster and plum jam to start. The scallops were beautifully sweet and meaty, and I would have it on oath that Vincent had two when I wasn’t looking (though he swears blind to only having imbibed one).

Mains saw the now closely-watched Vincent heartily tucking into a whole roasted Weardale grouse with game chips, bread sauce and cabbage, whereas I opted for the roast venison fillet with rosemary roasted artichokes and wilted spinach. Both of these exquisite pieces of game were cooked to perfection, and were chased down our gullets with the Lord Crewe’s locally famous Bakewell pudding, a house staple, and my now established go-to of all the incredible desserts on the Crewe’s daily-changing menu. Our bellies were too turgid to admit of a pudding each, so instead we shared one, clicking our antique spoons in the dish whilst we had a cheeseboard sent to the room to await our return.

Now I must admit that pints of Wylam Brewery’s Crewe Brew go down very easily, and, it being a beautiful evening, they were certainly flowing that night. As was the

carefully-sourced malbec, and of course the gin cocktails. So, dear reader, I cannot comment on the cheese as I have no memory of eating it; but I quizzed Vincent mercilessly the next morning and he confirmed it was outstanding.

By morning I felt right as rain, and I dashed out of bed quick as a flash to get at my breakfast, jumping under a fantastically powerful shower and almost pulling poor Vincent’s arms off in the process of getting him away from his hair dryer and out the door in the direction of the dining room. And, it has to be said, The Lord Crewe served me the single best full English I have ever eaten.

Marco Pierre White himself would have applauded it, I am certain; and I couldn’t help but catch a single, lone tear rolling from the corner of my eye at the sheer deliciousness of the local bacon and black pudding – this latter’s recipe being a closely-guarded secret of the local butcher’s wife, who makes it.Vincent got quite emotional over the mushrooms, so between the two of us we were in quite a state by the time the plates were taken away.

However, we did succeed in wiping our eyes long enough to note that fresh mint tea, with mint leaves picked by the ‘fair hands’ of our long-standing favourite, Josh, was available. No trip to the Lord Crewe is complete without a sighting of Josh and we were beside ourselves at having missed him, but I was able to console autumn

65

2016

myself with a dish of Bircher muesli, soaked in yoghurt with shaved apple and almonds.

Vincent studied his expertly brewed tea ponderously, one eye trained on the door in forlorn hope.

After two decades of visiting this, my favourite place on earth, an overnight stay had a lot to live up to. It is with delight, dear reader, that I can state that our stay far surpassed even my greatest hopes, and should you happen to see two dapper young gents stood at the bar on your next visit you must come and say hello, and I’ll stand you a pint.

TA S T I N G N OT E S Rooms at the Lord Crewe start at £109 per couple on Sunday nights and this includes breakfast. For Monday to Saturday rates and bookings in the hotel and restaurant visit their website at www.lordcrewearmsblanchland.co.uk The price for a suite similar to the one La Di Da stayed in including breakfast is £134 per couple.

Call 01434 675469.

Food & Drink

kitchen royalty OUR FABULOUS JONTJE CUNLIFFE-LISTER WENT BACK TO SCHOOL TO HONE HER CULINARY SKILLS WITH ONE OF THE UK'S TOP CHEFS AT LA DI DA SWINTON PARK...

I

do love cooking but my repertoire was becoming a tad ‘staid’ and having seen the highly engaging Steve Bulmer doing a cookery demo at the Conference & Hospitality Show in Leeds in April I took to the Swinton Park Cookery School website to see what took my fancy.

‘Cookery with Star Quality’ was the one-day course that stood out as I was keen to hone some new skills. And I was not to be disappointed.

The drive up to the picturesque Swinton Park is simply stunning with deer roaming around the grounds. Thankfully no venison dishes to be attempted on today’s course – the recipe list to be tackled consisted of: • Crab & Scallop Tortellini with Lemongrass & Ginger Bisque • Grilled Artichoke Salad with Poached Quail Eggs • Assiette of Lamb best end with Provencal Breadcrumbs, Fricasse of Lamb Sweetbreads on Crushed Peas with Mint & Marjoram and Parmentier Potatoes • Passion Fruit Tart with Passion Fruit Sorbet Oh what a full, engaging and informative day we had. Just a small group of 12 of us were entertained from start to finish by Steve and his delightful assistants Michael Buble look alike, Chris, and Ed Sheeran look alike, Rob. This triple act cannot fail to have you amused!

At one point Chris climbed atop the work surface so that Steve could demonstrate the various cuts of lamb.

I never thought I would see the day that I would make my own pasta but I have to say that making tortellini was very therapeutic.

Poaching quails’ eggs was actually the highlight of my day as I do love to see soft poached eggs on a salad and who knew it could be so simple… and what’s more you can thrust them into cold water, refrigerate and refresh the next day and still serve a perfectly soft poached egg (note to my next dinner guests: there will be salad and there will be poached quails’ eggs!!)

The other firm favourite that I will be trying again and again is the art of creating the perfect tart case (have to say I was rather impressed with mine!) – oh and the passion fruit filling was to die for. Another pud that will be certainly added to my repertoire.

Steve was constantly throwing us some of his top tips – what makes a good Venison gravy (juniper, red currant jelly, thyme, black pepper), Beef gravy (thyme, red wine – specifically a half reduced Cabernet Sauvignon, tarragon), Pork gravy (sage, juniper, red wine) and a autumn

66

2016

Chicken gravy (thyme, tarragon, ‘Marc de Bourgogne’ – a type of aged pomace brandy from Burgundy, Madeira,Vermouth – only boil for 10 seconds, fortified wines – reduced by a third). Other useful advice – smashed up parsley stalks and infuse in water for a great way to keep up your vitamin C, hang bruised mint to stave off wasps, cook duck and lamb breasts from cold to render the fat to release some fat before crisping up the skin. Oh yes, and not forgetting that no kitchen should be without a Rap Master cling film dispenser from Lakeland!

The day finished off by consuming the efforts of our labour – delicious!

I cannot recommend the Swinton Cookery School enough – the endless anecdotes, culinary expertise and entertainment from Steve, Chris and Rob is worth every penny.

I cannot wait to return.

• Swinton Park Cookery School, Swinton Park, Masham, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 4JH cookeryschool@swintonpark.com 01765 680969

Feature

DISCOVER SLALEY HALL

Tranquil spa

Four-star award-winning service

Two championship golf courses

Fine dining with locally sourced ingredients

Slaley Hall is set in the picturesque Northumberland countryside and has everything a country retreat needs. Recently we have been making some exciting changes to the hotel including upgrading bedrooms and bringing in a new management team. We are happy to be part of the award-winning QHotels group and on the back of this have two stunning leisure break offers for you:

Two-night romantic break from £120 pp

One-night spa break just £90 pp

Save 20% on a two-night break for two guests including breakfast and a delicious evening meal up to the value of £28 per guest on the first night of your stay, plus:

Relax, rejuvenate and refresh on a one-night break including breakfast and a delicious evening meal pp up to the value of £28 per guest, plus:

•

A free luxurious ESPA candle worth £24

•

1 x 30 minute spa treatment

•

A free box of Belgian chocolates & rose petals on the bed

•

Use of health club facilities

•

A complimentary bedroom upgrade

•

Unwind in our tranquil relaxation suite

•

20% off pre-booked spa treatments

•

20% off pre-booked spa treatments

Book online QHotels.co.uk/LADIDAPAMPER or call 01434 676 790 & quote LADIDAPAMPER

Book online QHotels.co.uk/LADIDATHANKQ or call 01434 676 790 & quote LADIDATHANKQ

67

autumn 2016 Terms and conditions apply and offers subject to availability at Slaley Hall. For full terms and conditions on our two-night romantic break visit QHotels.co.uk/LADIDAPAMPER. For full terms and conditions for our one-night spa break visit QHotels.co.uk/LADIDATHANKQ

Feature

ISTRIAN PROMISE ISTRIA, PREDICTED TO BE THE NEW TUSCANY, IS RAPIDLY MAKING A NAME FOR ITSELF AS A TOP EUROPEAN WINE DESTINATION SO WE NEEDED TO CHECK IT OUT, NATCH. WINE AFICIONADO RICHARD LOCKSTONE HEADED TO CROATIA TO PUT IT TO THE TEST…

G

enerally when we think of European wine breaks and roaming from vineyard to vineyard tasting the winery’s portfolio of knock-out wines we think of Bordeaux, Tuscany and the Rhone valley. Istria, for many people, is unlikely to be a place that immediately springs to mind when they think of wine destinations.

However, those ‘in the know’ predict great things for this small, heart shaped area of Croatia so over the summer break I set off to discover more about this hidden gem, now recognised as one of the top 10 European wine regions.

Croatian wines are not very easily found in the UK and rarely seen on restaurant menus, so the local grape varieties are not ones I have had too much experience with. Croatia does grow some of the international varieties; Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah & Merlot primarily. They also, like most European countries, have a vast number of their own local grape varieties.

None, however, are more prevalent than that of Malvasia (Malvazija in Croatian), a white grape that is the most largely planted of all

varieties and a red grape, Teran, which is also widely planted.

Most Teran is barrel aged and medium to full in body, high in tannins and ideally needs some ageing to be at their best. A number of wine makers are now making some excellent rose, sparkling and dessert wines from Teran.

Malvasia is also very versatile and makes excellent crisp, dry, young ‘ready to drink’ styles, sparkling wines (many using the traditional method, champagne style and blended with Chardonnay) and countless barrel aged and or blended versions. Malvasia is definitely a grape that the locals all know, all love and are all very proud of.

Istria is the furthest north western region of Croatia, bordering Slovenia and only a short distance away from North East Italy. It’s a short one hour and 40 minute flight from the UK. autumn

68

2016

Feature

LEFT: Kabola winery and vines

WINE NOTES WHERE TO STAY www.san-rocco.hr WHAT TO DRINK Value: Trapan, Ponente, Malvasia, 2015 £12.90 Mid Range: Kabola, Teran, 2011 £17.26 Splurge: Benvenuti, San Salvator, Sweet Muscat, 2011 [375ml] £34.80 All available from: www.croatianfinewines.com

I arrived at the international airport just outside the southern town of Pula, picked up a hire car and was ready to hit the road. The majority of the wineries are in the northern part of Istria and the first thing to do is pick up is a current copy of ‘The Gourmet Guide to Istria’ from a tourist information centre. In here it details all the wineries and gives wine road routes, as well as some excellent restaurant and accommodation recommendations, honey routes, olive oil farms and more.

I knew I needed a base in the heart of the wineries and I was lucky enough to book the last room at the Heritage Hotel San Rocco.

The San Rocco is a wine lover’s dream, set in a small village called Brtonigla, which is very close to the key wineries and with its own superb al fresco and indoor fine dining restaurant with an excellent wine list and local,

knowledgeable sommeliers. For the first night I was treated, fed and entertained to the hotel’s signature gastronomic tasting menu with wines to pair for each course and it was sublime. My favourite course (out of seven!) was a fresh sea crab consommé, paired with 100% Malvasia from Cattunar winery. It was only day one but I could already see why this wine region secret was out!

I spent the next few days visiting other wineries. Each one was smaller than I was used to and many were run by family members. Highlights included the historic old house, now winery and tasting room, with beautiful views and lovely single variety wines at Kabola, the modern and architecturally fascinating tasting room at Kozlovic´, and the views and rustic intimate tasting room and its excellent dessert wines made from Muscat at autumn

69

2016

the gorgeous Benvenuti. This has its own villa that guests can rent, overlooking the iconic town of Motovun. I only had a few days there and felt there was so much more to explore but the ample comforts of the San Rocco started to feel like home and its outdoor swimming pool was a welcome relief after the ‘stressful’ wine tasting sessions..

On my way back south, I took the coastal route, stopping overnight at Vrsar. With a fine breakfast at Novigrad and lunch at Porec´, I highly recommend Vrsar. It has the necessary balance of tourism, not too crowded but enough to ensure a few knock out restaurants and relaxed marine side bars. It certainly ticked all the boxes for a seaside stop off on my way back to Pula.

My final ‘find’, on my last day was the delightful winery at Trapan, the ‘wine station’, literally 10 minutes from Pula airport. Being much further south from all the other wineries I had visited, the effect of its geography was very interesting and here I found my favourite crisp, fresh, un-aged Malvasia of the whole trip, ‘Ponente 2015’ – indeed it was so favourable that I couldn’t resist buying a bottle at duty free on the way home.

Istria is worth its place in that top 10 list and if you like lovely weather, beautiful countryside and gorgeous wines that really express its own terroir, then go and visit this Tuscan style, wine lovers’ playground, before anyone else does.

Food & Drink

Fashionable

Fanc ies Hotel du Vin

AFTERNOON TEAS ARE ON POINT RIGHT NOW BUT WHERE TO CHOOSE? WE TOOK IT UPON OURSELVES TO INDULGE IN WANTON GLUTTONY AND FIND OUT...

Rockliffe Hall What could be more a more elegant way to while away a few hours than enjoying Spa time with friends followed by a traditional English Afternoon Tea? Lay back and relax in Rockliffe Hall’s award winning spa while you spend time catching up with friends or unwinding from a hectic week. Once completely tranquil, take to the Old Hall for their infamous afternoon tea.

Indulge in a sumptuous selection of freshly cut sandwiches, elegant sweet treats and homemade scones with cream and preserves accompanied by the finest tea or coffee. Available Mondays to Fridays, from £75.

• www.rockliffehall.com autumn

70

2016

We’re all of an excitement at La Di Da Towers Hotel du Vin has launched its new gin-inspired Afternoon Tea. The menu features a selection of handpicked gins, each perfectly paired with its own tonic, such as The Sipsmith Sloe and Monkey 47.

There is also an impressive selection of tea infusions created for Hotel du Vin by world renowned tea connoisseurs Twinings. A full Afternoon Tea is available daily from 12-6pm, prices from £20. Begin with a selection of mini sandwiches and savouries, followed by a selection of warm scones served with a mixture of Bonne Mammon jams, clotted cream and Lescure butter. To finish a few sweet mini treats of a Knickerbocker glory, lemon meringue pie, raspberry and dark chocolate teacakes and rhubarb and custard doughnuts. All topped off homemade apple candy floss and a choice of teas.

• www.hotelduvin.com

Food & Drink

The Black Horse

Jesmond Dene House Afternoon Tea at beautifully stylish Jesmond Dene House is truly a joy so it’s no surprise that its afternoon teas have just broken the 110,000 barrier.

To celebrate all of that cake being eaten, the hotel commissioned renowned cartoonist David Haldane to capture the spirit of afternoon tea in a cartoon that now hangs at the entrance to the hotel. As a further celebration, a prize of afternoon tea for two is being offered to the person who comes up with the best caption.

The competition can be entered via the hotel’s Facebook page, which also shows the cartoon. To enter the competition, go to www.facebook. com/Jesmonddenehouse.

T h e L i b r a r y Te a Room at Auckland Castle The Library Tea Room at beautiful Auckland Castle now offers a unique version of the traditional, English treat specifically designed for ages 12 and under. The specially adapted afternoon tea includes a selection of simple sandwiches, such as ham and cheese, as well as a fruit scone with homemade jam, chocolate cake and a raspberry

The Black Horse at Beamish does a fine afternoon tea full of traditional delights such as finely cut sandwiches featuring Smoked Salmon, Cucumber and Cream Cheese and Roast Ham and Peas Pudding. Their Macaroons are to die for and alongside the scones and cream are classics such as Mini Sticky Toffee Pudding. Priced at £14.95 per person we would personally recommend upgrading to the Prosecco Afternoon Tea at £20.90 or the Champagne Afternoon Tea for two £59.95 with a bottle of Lanson Black for a truly decadent experience.

• www.blackhorsebeamish.co.uk

jelly. Served on a silver tea stand, just like the adult version, the traditional accompaniment of tea or coffee is replaced with hot chocolate and marshmallows for younger visitors, imaginatively served in a teapot.

Afternoon Tea for adults or young people is available until 3pm daily but must be booked 48 hours in advance.

Prices start at £9 for ages 12 and under or £18 per person for the adult Afternoon Tea, which includes a selection of innovative sandwiches, as well as chocolate and hazelnut scones, lime and ginger cake, fig and date fancier with balsamic Chantilly and rhubarb and custard marshmallow.

• www.aucklandcastle.org autumn

71

2016

High Fliers Trying to find a room in Newcastle on the evening of the Great North Run was never going to be an easy task. But then we struck lucky and got offered two rooms at the DoubleTree Hilton at Newcastle Airport.

REVIEW: LINDA JANE WESTPHAL

T

eam La Di Da were headed to the Rock N Raise gig with the Kaiser Chiefs and VIP After Show party, natch. Our make up supremo Jo Leversuch had been up at the crack of dawn doing Ricky Wilson’s make up before he presented the coverage of the Great North Run whilst our photographer Chris Davis had just flown in from Berlin to shoot for us before he was due to depart to party with the royal family in Monaco. As you do…

When I announced that our hotel was at the airport I don’t think they held out much hope for a good night’s sleep. But what a revelation! The DoubleTree is contemporary, stylish and super clean. We were greeted at reception and each given a freshly baked Chocolate Chip Cookie which was a nice touch.

The rooms were contemporary and a good size with every modern facility, free Wi-Fi and large bathrooms. And we were only a short taxi ride from Newcastle so 10 minutes later we were at the Metro Arena with time to spare.

After a fabulous night we hit the super comfy beds and slept like babies. We couldn’t believe how quiet it was given its location. Morning saw us avoid the well equipped gym in favour of an excellent full English in the hotel’s restaurant – they also have contemporary Italian Fratello’s on site – and copious coffees before heading back out for more media shenanigans. All of us were impressed with our stay and it’s definitely a find - really handy for nights out in Newcastle.

You don’t even have to leave the hotel to have a good time. The DoubleTree has a lot of fabulous events on over the Christmas and New Year period including Saturday Festive Party Nights and Friday Festive Nights where you can enjoy a prosecco reception, three course meal and party the night away with a DJ all from £19.95 per person or £29.95 per person on a Saturday night. We’d suggest you treat yourself and stay over; it’s a great place to recuperate after a really good party.

• DoubleTree Hilton Newcastle Airport 01661 824266 www.doubletree3.hilton.com

Feature

AD

autumn

72

2016

Advertorial

SOHE, Newc a s t l e

F E ST I VE FUS I O N

Y

ou can always count on Osborne Road favourite Sohe to serve up something different and they certainly don’t shy away from the Christmas and New Year period. Taking inspiration from Japan, Malaysia, Thailand, Korea and beyond, the restaurant offers diners an array of tantalising flavours year-round.

Try traditional dishes with a twist of spice or fruitiness, all carefully crafted by the expert team of chefs. And if the three Christmas courses don’t satisfy your curiosity, be sure to check out the eight course

New Year’s Eve menu with a cocktail and sushi on arrival – because when would anyone ever turn down sushi?!

The private dining room, looking out onto the vibrant scene of central Jesmond, also provides the perfect backdrop to a special occasion.

Celebrate in an opulent setting surrounded by your loved ones and enjoy dedicated planning support by the events team – the space is available to view on request.

Don’t forget to earn points on any purchase with your free Sweet Rewards card, available to pick up at Sohe.

F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N A B O U T S O H E A N D TO B O O K Call: 0191 281 8161 W SoheNewcastle

Visit: www.sohe.co.uk BSoheNewcastle

TU SCAN FEAST

T

his winter, experience the best of the Mediterranean and conjure up memories of summer holidays passed at Fratello’s restaurants where authentic Italian food is at the heart of the brand.

With influences from the country’s culinary hotspots, you can savour rich and warming creations from stone-baked, hand-stretched pizzas and homemade pastas to seafood and juicy cuts of meat.

Executive head chef Steven Keys is a well-known face in the industry, bringing his flair and precision to the Fratello’s trio of

F R AT ELLO’S , Newcast le

venues across the North East.

The first sits within DoubleTree

by Hilton Hotel, next to Newcastle International Airport, the second on Jesmond Road just outside of the city centre and the third convenientlylocated at Scotch Corner.

Relaxed dining with gastro-style execution is their forte: a welcome addition to the popular Sweet Rewards loyalty membership programme which launched this year, where diners can redeem 20% discount Friday to Sunday* on presentation of their free Sweet Rewards card. *Not valid in December

F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N A B O U T F R AT E L LO ’ S A N D TO B O O K Visit: www.fratellosresturants.co.uk

W fratellosResturants

FRATELLO’S SCOTCH CORNER

FRATELLO’S NEWCASTLE AIRPORT

01661 867 020

0191 212 5500

01748 828 616

fbmanager@hidarlington.co.uk

fbmanager@doubletree-newcastle.co.uk

manager@fratellosjesmond.co.uk

autumn

73

2016

FRATELLO’S JESMOND

Feature

A Season of Love, Laughter and Light

An eclectic Christmas Market, every weekend until Christmas from the 19th November, offers charming artisan gifts for unique stocking fillers and visits with Santa Claus, craft activites, a fairy tale trail and our dramatic lantern parade ensure that the little ones arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t left out.

alnwickgarden.com/christmas autumn

74

2016

Image Š Graeme Peacock

Food & Drink

Flying colours

THE BLACK HORSE AT BEAMISH OOZES COUNTRY CHARM BUT NOW IT HAS A RATHER FABULOUS NEW ADDITION. LA DI DA PAYS A VISIT...

Photography by Jade Turnbull (www.jadephotography-online.com)

F

ew places can boast the panoramic views of the Black Horse at Beamish.You can see for 80 miles to the coast from its hilltop. It’s truly a little piece of rural heaven with chickens roaming around, orchards dotting the hillsides, olde world charm and to die for afternoon teas.

The stylish gastro pub and restaurant is housed in a beautifully restored 300 year old building set in 33 glorious acres of rolling countryside. Full of rustic character with low slung beams, open fires and flagstones, it offers field to plate dining with its 10 acres of onsite vegetable gardens.

The menu is varied and seasonal. It is changed regularly but they do keep traditional favourites on such as their famous Bombardier Pie and signature The Black Horse Gourmet Aberdeen Angus Beef Burger - healthy appetites required for this one. The offer also features sharing plates such as the Land and Sea platter and international dishes. The Black Horse’s Sunday Roast is legendary but on any day of the week you will find the restaurant and al fresco dining area buzzing with people enjoying the excellent food and gorgeous surroundings.

The Black Horse is surprisingly spacious with a light, airy conservatory, the George Ridley room upstairs with original stone walls, two open fires and high ceilings, the adjacent gallery bar and an heated outdoor terrace with those breathtaking views.

The latest new addition is a rather fabulous marquee which features its own bar, beer cellar, kitchen and gazebo. Further plans are underway for outside seating, a hot roast and BBQ area overlooking the surrounding orchard. They have just recently planted fields of lavender around the marquee which combined with the amazing views makes it a

truly magical venue for weddings and parties.

With all of the latest high spec facilities, it can accommodate up to 300 guests for a sit down event or up to 500 standing.

The Black Horse also has accommodation onsite with the Huckleberry Cottage which is set in the idyllic Beamish conservation valley.

They are currently working on renovating the original Red Row cottages to create an additional 12 stylish rooms which are expected to be some of the most luxurious the region has ever seen.

We’re already dreaming about spending a summer evening, glass of fizz in hand, in a rooftop hot tub looking out at those views.

• www.blackhorsebeamish.co.uk

autumn

75

2016

’est la V ie

Feature

I

t took me a while to go and explore Paris, but now that I have, I’m certainly going to make a point of going back often! This city has so much more to offer than a just a romantic background for lovers. From eating gustatory delights at the wonderful bistros, sipping sumptuous cocktails whilst enjoying beautiful views along the Seine, to shopping at the worlds most fabulous boutiques-what could be more la di da?

BEAUTY SLEEP

Paris is fabulous, but that means staying in a half decent hotel isn’t cheap! I decided to opt for a different option and save my pennies for the allimportant shopping! I used Airbnb, which enabled me to find a Parisian apartment in the centre of Paris (balcony with views of the Eiffel Tower included!) for less than £50 a night. I stayed with a couple who were about my age and who were absolutely delightful. Staying with Parisians meant I could get the inside skinny on what to do and where to be seen in Paris.

GETTING ABOUT

C

I found Paris a little more difficult to navigate than cities like New York, but even with my awful sense of direction I still made it to everywhere I had intended. With the help of trusty Google Maps, I went all around the city (even to the outskirts) by just walking or by using the Parisian equivalent of Boris bikes. I have to say-I’m not a wonderful cyclist, I don’t own a bike-but even I loved hopping on a bike for a free 30 minute ride around a city that is really set-up for cyclists.

NICOLE ABDUL GOES TO PARIS AND FALLS IN LOVE...

autumn

76

2016

Travel

LEFT: The iconic Louvre Museum RIGHT: Take a stroll along Champs-Élysées

POSH NOSH

Paris has some delectable food establishments. For a glass of vino with mouth-watering cheeses, succulent charcuterie, and friendly staff, look no further than Redd on Rue Saint-Sauveur. If anti-pasti is your thing La Massara on Rue de Turbigo do a board with a wonderful selection of cheeses, meats and grilled vegetables.

For a bit of luxury, head to Ladurée on the Champs-Élysées, where you can either relax over a lavish lunch, or recouperate with a glass of bubbles and macaroons.

For fresh, healthy, food bursting with flavour at reasonable prices 750g La table on Rue de Turbigo was a real find! A main course, drink and coffee will only set you back €15.90.

If none of those take your fancy, why not wander the streets of Paris and take a seat at one of the fabulous bistros that you will find. I was not disappointed by any of the food I had in Paris so take a gamble and eat somewhere spontaneous.

RETAIL THERAPY

Don’t get me wrong, I love a bit of indulgence at Chanel, and a walk along the Champs-Élysées is a must when in Paris. However, I just adore stumbling upon independent boutiques with unique garments that you can treasure for years to come. Well, Paris has to be one of the best cities for this. Before I went, friends had recommended the Latin Quarter and Le Marais as top places for this type of shopping, but I actually fell in love with the boutiques in Montmartre. This area is famous for the Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur, which incidentally is beautiful and definitely worth a visit, especially if you can summon up enough energy to climb to the top and get one of the best views in Paris!

Montmartre has some fabulous independent boutiques that you could easily spend hundreds of hours and euros in! One that I love is Anoki on Rue Tardieu. This shop sells stunning accessorieseverything from gorgeous handbags to statement necklaces-all at a price that wont break the bank!

If perfumeries are more your thing, Diptyque is a must stop. When you step into the original shop at 34 boulevard Saint-Germain, your senses are overwhelmed with the gorgeous aromas of the Diptyque collection. My personal favs are the candles but any of Diptyques products smell divine and are packaged beautifully.

CULTURE VULTURE

Where to start?! Paris is filled with culture, so deciding what to do and in what order can be a little daunting. For something a little different to visiting a museum, pop into Shakespeare and Company bookshop on Rue la Bûcherie. I fell in love with this place which is steeped in history! While away hours as you explore this quirky English second hand and new bookshop. There are books on just about anything you could think of - I picked up a book on the story of Chanel’s life, natch. Whilst there you can relax with a good book upstairs or even play the piano, how very chic!

summer autumn

77

2016

Travel

Hotels

WHETHER YOU’RE PART OF THE RACING FRATERNITY OR NOT YOU’LL LOVE THESE FABULOUS HOTELS. OUR MAJ AT HIGHLY RECOMMENDED HOTELS AND VENUES, JONTJË CUNLIFFE LISTER, REPORTS...

Bedford Lodge Hotel, Newmarket

M

eetings in Chelmsford beckoned so I took the opportunity to check out Bedford Lodge Hotel in the quaint racing town of Newmarket. Newmarket has a timeless elegance about it – racing horses being exercised in every direction that you look but be aware, they have right of way on the towns roads!

Thankfully I arrived just in time for dinner in their Squires restaurant – glass of 2014 Ana Sauvignon Blanc in hand (delicious… in fact I had to have a second one!), and a tantalising basket of fresh bread to nibble on - it didn’t take me long to peruse the menu as I spotted a seared scallop dish served with bacon jam and pulled pork.

Prior to my main course, I was served a complimentary amuse bouche of a tomato veloute – the taste was divine. The scallops and pulled pork didn’t fail to deliver either, it was a melt in the mouth taste sensation! And just the right amount for a light dinner before an early night.

My spacious bedroom overlooked the racing stables and was light and airy. Molton Brown products in the bathroom ensured a relaxing soak before heading into the Super king bed with plump feather pillows and crisp white Egyptian cotton bed linen. An ideal combination for an excellent night’s sleep. I do like to have tea and coffee making facilities in my room and here you find a cafetiere with a sachets of freshly ground coffee, Tea Pigs tea bags and fresh milk in the fridge. The

complimentary lavender shortbread was utterly delicious (despite my initial reservations of eating lavender!)

Breakfast service was friendly and slick – poached eggs, grilled bacon and one slice of brown toast (as requested!)… I frequently ask for one slice only to have a toast rack full of toast delivered so I was delighted not to have to waste any here.

Bedford Lodge has a superb gym and a large swimming pool that are available to guests of the hotel. For those wanting to pay a little extra then the newly completed Spa is just a short walk across the grounds where you will find treatment rooms, hydrotherapy areas and a hot tub on the decked area

autumn

78

2016

outside. Just a shame that I didn’t have more time to make good use of all these facilities.

Next time…!

Bedford Lodge Hotel, 11 Bury Road, Newmarket, Suffolk, CB8 7BX 01638 663175 reservations@prideofbritainhotels.com

Travel

Ellenborough Park Hotel, Cheltenham

M

y husband and I decided that some grown up time was needed amidst the school summer holidays – so with the munchkins kindly invited for a sleepover – we legged it over to Cheltenham for some visual retail therapy amongst the boutiques of delightful Cheltenham.

We were drawn to Ellenborough Park Hotel by the incredible reviews and we were not to be disappointed.

The hotel is located in an elevated position with views over Cheltenham racecourse.

There were hot air balloons taking off in the grounds in the sunset when we arrived, that and the Cotswold stone of the hotel building made it memorable in itself. We were greeted in the car park, our bags taken from our car and our car whisked away… valet parking - not carjacking I hasten to add!

Ellenborough Park is a quintessentially British destination, with a unique streak of individuality inspired by Lady Ellenborough herself, Jane Digby. Jane married Lord Ellenborough at the height of her fame as a dazzling character who took 19th Century English society by storm with her striking beauty and scandalous behaviour. Grand but without pretentiousness, Ellenborough Park

has become synonymous with country retreats, romantic breaks, unforgettable weddings and expertly-executed conferences – dog friendly too… not that we have one!

We had been very kindly upgraded to the Kauto Star Suite, the size of which equated to the square footage of the entirety of our cottage! Situated on the first floor with windows to 3 sides and views to racecourse, lovely light room with an original fireplace.

Cloak room, open plan bedroom and sitting room with a vast bed (with custom made Ellenborough Park Hypnos mattress – you can actually call up and order an EP mattress!) and a bathroom to die for – walk in shower, roll top bath, twin sinks and separate loo. I could move in here with no hesitation!

Outstanding meal in the fine dining restaurant, The Beaufort, in the evening – I had seen rave reviews about the Baked Alaska which I feared my will power would not hold me back from ordering… no problem though as my lovely husband thought he would be helpful by saying no to desserts on both our behalves but could he have a plate of cheese sent to our suite. I was spitting!!

Though his intentions were good and ensured I kept reasonably on my

Slimming World track!

We have rebooked for October – when I can assure you dear reader that I WILL be having that Baked Alaska!

Ellenborough Park Hotel, Southam Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL52 3NJ 01242 808917 reservations@prideofbritainhotels.com

J O N T J Ë C U N L I F F E - L I S T E R I S M D O F H I G H LY R E C O M M E N D E D H O T E L S A N D V E N U E S W W W . H R H . C O . U K

autumn

79

2016

Feature

The Alnwick Garden

...where true love blossoms

W: www.alnwickgarden.com | T: 01665 511081 | E: weddings@alnwickgarden.com Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/weddingsatthealnwickgarden The Alnwick Garden is a registered charity (1095435); the money you spend in The Garden funds our charitable projects. autumn 2016

80

Advertorial Feature

VIP CONCIERGE

EVER FANCIED HAVING YOUR OWN STAFF TO MAKE SURE YOUR LIFE RUNS SMOOTHLY? NOW A NEW CONCIERGE SERVICE CAN DELIVER THE DOWNTON EXPERIENCE...

LA DI DA CHECKS IT OUT...

Channel the stately home experience with a team of highly qualified domestic staff...

N

ever enough hours in the day? Well we are the bearer of good news, dear reader. The days of spending your weekends and evenings working through a list of chores are now officially over. A new and very VIP concierge service will put an end to all your chores or domestic staffing issues with the efficiency and attention to detail of Downton Abbey’s Mr Carson and Mrs Hughes.

The PURE Concierge Cleaning Company is totally committed to providing you with the finest bespoke cleaning service available. It is a new service from a company that has been providing commercial cleaning services for the last 19 years for the great and good of the business world. Their excellent service, attention to detail and ‘can do’ attitude quickly led to their clients asking them if they could service their stately homes and make sure their holiday home was ready for their arrival. Demand grew and they decided to launch PURE, a complete concierge service which offers much more than just cleaning. This bespoke service is built around its clients needs. So they can stock up your fridge, do your laundry, arrange to have your car valeted, clean your windows and guttering, sort out the garden, clean the pool and much more. And to maintain high quality of service, they will only be working with a select number of clients to ensure their standards remain impeccably high.

And they have cleverly answered every headache that casually employing staff can bring. Their standards are high. They recruit professionals whose high standards match their own such as ex military household staff. Don’t be surprised to come home and find your bed turned down and a mint on your pillow - this is a five star hotel type of service.

Staff are fully CRB and DBS checked giving total peace of mind and go through a rigorous selection process where all

aspects of service delivery are tested and vetted. They also carry out a full risk assessment to ensure the team are safe and comply with all legislation and are fully insured.

And you won’t have to come home and rearrange the cushions because the whole service is tailored around your likes and dislikes.When you become a member, their head of client services will visit your home and agree, to the tiniest of details, how you would like your home cleaned.This is fully documented and used as a checklist by your cleaning team.

Payment is by direct debit, so no having to remember to carry cash - if the Queen doesn’t have to why should you? You log onto your account and see a complete breakdown of all the services you have used that month.

The service we love the most at La Di Da Towers is the Party Service.The PURE team comes in for the morning after clean up, meaning you can party late into the night with flagrant disregard knowing you won’t have to face the cleaning the next day.

PURE also do a thorough One Off Cleanse, perfect for the Christmas run up or for a thorough spring clean. Enjoy a day at the spa or on the golf course and return to a home looking like a shiny new pin from top to bottom, inside and out. And all of the cleaning materials they use are Eco friendly, so there are no worries about harmful chemicals.

A whole team of professional domestic staff with impeccable standards...what’s not to love? We already have them on speed dial...

Don’t be surprised to come home and find your bed turned down and a mint on your pillow - this is a five star hotel type of service...

PURE CONCIERGE CLEANING CO. Telephone: 0333 939 8595 Email: enquiries@pureconciergecleaning.co.uk www.pureconciergecleaning.co.uk

autumn

81

2016

Interiors

Design

INTERIOR DESIGNERS GEORGE BOND AND RAY WATKIN OFFER SOME EXPERT ADVICE ON OPEN PLAN LIVING...

Kings

The hall way creates a real wow factor and allows you to see through to the hub of the house

Dining Area

Seating Area

Kitchen

FIRST Impressions count...

Utility

W/C

I

t’s been a busy year so far for George Bond Interior Design, and it looks as though this is unlikely to change as we start a huge renovation project which consists of a complete internal reconfiguration and two storey extension to the back of the property.

The brief was to create a modern yet sophisticated home that flowed and allowed natural light.

We’ve shared some of our plans to show you Master Bedroom GB 3 En-suite how to create harmonious flow and utilise natural light to great effect. The proposed internal layout certainly ticks all of the boxes.

We have created an open, flowing interior Hallway which is spacious and light, with a few talking points along the way.

Walk-in Wradrobe The hallway and double staircase sets the GB 1 En-suite tone for the interior. It really creates a wow factor when you enter the property. Directly above the staircase your eyes are drawn to a domed ceiling with back light onyx marble - a Guest Bedroom 1 real statement piece. The glass double doors below allow you to see straight through the house, showcasing ‘the hub of the house’ which consists of the kitchen, dining and seating Master En-suite area,

Lounge

Office

Entrance Hallway

Study

along with access to the lounge and office.

Our intention was to create a ‘hub’ that everyone would gravitate to or pass through, making it a really social space. The bi-fold doors running the length of the kitchen are a clever way to ‘bring the outside in’ which helps to make it a more attractive space to spend time in.

To keep the first floor similarly spacious and light, the first floor hallway runs the perimeter of the double staircase, which avoids creating long, dark corridors. The first floor consists of three spacious bedrooms, all with ensuites, and master bedroom quarters that include a

walk-in wardrobe which leads through to a large ensuite.

All of the bedrooms are accessed by the hallway allowing natural flow.

And now we have the internal layout design complete, the real fun starts as we work solidly for the next two months on the interior design, from lighting layouts and bespoke furniture, to soft furnishing and floor finishes; the interiors will bring this magnificent house to life so watch this space.

• www.georgebond.tv - ray@georgebond.tv 0191 281 77 99

Our intention was to create a ‘hub’ that everyone would gravitate to or pass through, making it a social space. autumn

82

2016

North East & Cumbria T: 01434 622234 finestproperties.co.uk

Bradley Hall Farm

KEY FEATURES

SOUTH WYLAM | NORTHUMBERLAND

High Specification

A stunning range of high quality barn conversions situated in a picturesque and accessible location Prices from £395,000 | EPCS NOT YET ASSESSED

Choice of Kitchens and Bathrooms Create your Own Interior

3,4 & 5

autumn

Ready for Christmas

83

2016

Business

BUSINESS QUEEN JACQUI MILLER MBE IS A TOP BUSINESS WOMAN, POLITICAL FORCE, MENTOR AND AMBASSADOR. AND SHE DOES IT ALL ROCKING KILLER HEELS AND DESIGNER HANDBAGS. LA DI DA MEETS THIS FABULOUS FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH TO FIND OUT MORE...

W

ith her long blonde hair, to die for wardrobe and killer heels, Jacqui turns more than a few heads as she walks into the glam Vermont Hotel in Newcastle, where we’ve

arranged to meet.

But it’s not her looks or glamour that defines her... she has a dizzying array of accomplishments to her name and they have all been achieved through tenacity, determination and sheer hard work. Not only has she made her mark in the traditionally male bastion of manufacturing with a multimillion pound business, she also has an MBE, a role as ambassador for North East business, is a mentor, charity patron and media figure.

And she certainly wasn’t born with a silver spoon in her mouth.

“We all came from a very ordinary background,” she says. “Mum worked several jobs while dad was a truck driver and they lived in a terraced house which they put up for collateral for my brother Keith as he set out on his business journey. “ autumn

“The bank manager warned her against it, saying ‘I certainly wouldn’t do that for my son’ and Mum said ‘but your son isn’t Keith,” Jacqui recalls. “We were very fortunate with our parents; we were the centre of their world. In a different era they could have run a business, they were very entrepreneurial hard working individuals.”

And it is her parents’ work ethic and determination that have helped her to build a remarkable business alongside her two brothers.

84

2016

Business

Jacqui refused to let any of this misogyny faze her and continued to expand the business with her brothers Keith and Gary on their collective terms.

The company is now a global success and after dedicating almost 20 years developing export markets for the business and flying the flag for Brand Britain in the process, she was awarded an MBE in the Queen’s 2013 New Year Honours List for Services to Industry & International Trade.

Now she acts as an ambassador for the North East, working alongside organisations such as Policy North to lobby the Government to invest in the region.

“The message to London is give us the money because money invested here could reap substantially larger rewards than from any other part of the UK,” she explains. “I went to this event at the LSE for a survey on entrepreneurship and aspiration and the North East came out bottom of the pile on every criteria. I don’t think we are less entrepreneurial but I do think we aren’t as good at shouting about it, it’s a cultural thing and it needs to change,” she says.

“I don’t understand the word failure. It’s just part of the process, it’s a learning experience, it may be an expensive lesson but it’s a lesson nonetheless,” she says. “The more you learn, the more you can help people along the way. There is a fear associated with risk but that fear is associated to the word failure.

Real business leaders don’t fail, they make mistakes and they learn, it’s not a word to be accepted in their reality.”

Jacqui joined her two brothers in the family manufacturing business Miller in the 1980s. She was only 17 and they were battling recession.

Jacqui headed up the sales and marketing side and helped turn the fortunes of the company around. I said, “Together we are only going to go in one direction,” she says.

“Success is down to hard work and passion. I would think nothing of driving down to Bridgewater and back in a day and still being at my desk at 7.30 the next morning and my two brothers, Keith and Gary, were the same.”

Jacqui pioneered change around the world on how hydraulic excavators were used by introducing machine owners and operators to a product invented by her brothers, The Miller Quick Coupler. As an attractive young girl in the 1980s in a male dominated environment she faced her fair share of challenges.

“Once in Turkey I had to have an armed guard outside my hotel door all night as one customer got over amorous,” she explains.

“Another time I was told that a customer loved the product but wouldn’t order from me because his workmates would take the mickey out of him because I was a woman.”

Real business leaders don’t fail, they make mistakes and they learn, it’s not a word to be accepted in their reality.

autumn

85

2016

• www.jacquimillermbe.com

Advertorial

Legal 500 hails Sintons CONSISTENTLY NAMED AS ONE OF THE STAND-OUT LEGAL FIRMS IN THE NORTH OF ENGLAND, SINTONS EXCELS ACROSS ITS MULTI-DISCIPLINARY PRACTICE, OFFERING NATIONALLY-RECOGNISED EXPERTISE TO CLIENTS ACROSS THE NORTH EAST AND FAR BEYOND.

HEALTHCARE Amanda Maskery and Victoria Armstrong, Lead Partners in Healthcare They offer “outstanding service levels, excellent industry expertise and a client-centric approach.” They are a leading UK advisor to more GPs and dentists than any other North East law firm and work with a number of NHS Trusts. They are nationally recognised for their work across the healthcare spectrum including in care and pharmacies.

FAMILY Steve Freeman, Head of Matrimonial “A key individual and matrimonial specialist” who regularly works in high-value and complex divorce cases. Steve and his team are one of the biggest and most respected family law teams in the North of England. Working in divorce cases across the UK the team is renowned for achieving the best possible outcomes and settlements for their clients.

INSURANCE LITIGATION

WILLS AND PROBATE

Jamie McCabe, Head of Insurance Litigation “His analytical mind and meticulous attention to detail makes him one of the best.”

Jamie – regularly ranked as one of the leading insurance lawyers in the UK - and his team act for a number of major UK insurers.

They are regarded as being one of the most capable insurance litigation teams in any UK law firm, particularly in handling catastrophic injury cases.

Paul Nickalls, Head of Probate “Paul Nickalls stands out for his work, particularly with regard to vulnerable clients, the elderly and injured.”

Sintons is renowned for its sensitive but thorough work in probate. It works with businesses through its Wills in the Workplace initiative where employees are allowed to make their Wills while at work.

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY

EMPLOYMENT

Mark Dobbin, Head of Real Estate Mark heads a “knowledgeable, efficient and committed” real estate team which boasts many prestigious high-profile and national clients.

Key clients include The Church Commissioners – which manages historic assets currently valued at more than £5.2bn – alongside a host of leading regional and national leisure and care operators. autumn

Keith Land, Head of Employment “Keith Land stands out for his pragmatic approach.”

The Employment team is praised by Legal 500 for its work with a wide range of clients. It is well-regarded across the North East business community, particularly among small and medium-sized businesses, for its Assero fixed-fee employment and HR protection package.

86

2016

CORPORATE AND COMMERCIAL Karen Simms, Partner – leading individual Matt Collen, Partner – “commercial, pragmatic, knowledgeable and a good negotiator, with expertise in private equity transactions.”

The team is praised for its work in “regularly handling high-value corporate transactions in the financial services, energy, waste, care and leisure sectors” which sees it work regionally and nationally with a number of major clients.

RURAL Tom Wills, Head of Agriculture and Estates “Tom provides high quality advice relating to rural landlord and tenant issues.”

Sintons’ specialist rural and farming team has worked with families and rurally-based businesses for many years, often spanning several generations, advising on a range of issues. The firm is renowned for its ‘family lawyer’ approach.

Feature Fleming Court has many features of a top hotel

POSH HOMES THE LATEST RESIDENTIAL HOMES ARE MORE TOP HOTEL THAN CARE HOME. LA DI DA FINDS OUT MORE ABOUT THE LATEST DES RES IN JESMOND…

W

hat do you think about when you think about a care home? Probably an image springs to mind of dated 1970s décor and lukewarm food. But the new generation of care homes have more in common with luxury retreats than standard residential care stereotypes. There’s even one in London with its own underground tunnel to Harrods – our kind of place!

It’s not just London though that has these luxury abodes for retirement living. A new Helen McArdle care home, Fleming Court, in leafy Jesmond boasts a restaurant, cinema café, bar, orangery, terraces and balconies, beauty salon,

bowling green and sensory garden. It even has its own exclusive penthouse rooms on the fourth floor though sadly no underground tunnel to Waitrose but it does have a concierge service.

Beauticians will be bought in to offer nail and beauty treatments and the concierge can even arrange a regular delivery of flowers to rooms.

Perhaps, best of all, there is even a happy hour at the bar where residents can enjoy socialising over a G&T or even the odd cocktail.

It opens in November and demand is expected to be high. Based in Burdon Terrace, the 63 bed care home is close to the rather fabulous Clayton Road shops and has excellent transport links to Newcastle City Centre and the coast. Plus residents can bring their own cars so they can get out and about.

The hotel experience doesn’t just end with the luxury rooms and host of facilities however. The quality of food is a key consideration. Sean McArdle, Director of Service and Wellbeing and a trained chef, is passionate about the quality of food and dining autumn

87

2016

experience served at their homes.

“Food isn’t just a source of nutrition it should be something to be enjoyed and celebrated.

Mealtimes should feel special, this is why we fully dress the dining rooms on evenings to recreate the feeling of a local restaurant where your meals would be individually plated in the kitchen and delivered to the Dining Room,” he explains.

Menus are rotated every three weeks, guests and residents have choice at each mealtime.

Menus offer many traditional meals, but they also include Chef ’s Dish of the Day and the opportunity to sample new dishes.

“Meal times at Fleming Court are flexible so people can have a choice of sittings to give a restaurant experience and there will be theme nights and friends and family and locals can come in and eat, giving a social aspect to the experience,” explains Sean.

It is this passion for delivering the very best care possible that has seen the multi award winning Helen McArdle Homes bring Smooth Nutrition to the UK. Fleming Court has a floor divided into two levels for those suffering with dementia, both early and later stages, and a key problem for some of these residents is the ability to swallow. Sean was so disgusted at the food available that he made it his mission to search internationally for a solution.

“The quality of pureed food in the UK was appalling,” he said. “But then we discovered Smooth Food abroad. It’s full of nutrition and is shaped to look like solid food so residents can sit and eat with friends and family and enjoy the same food experience as them, rather than feeling isolated by having to eat pureed food.”

From restaurant style dining to penthouse suites, cinema clubs, cocktail making classes and concierges, residential living has taken on a whole new meaning. But as well appointed as Fleming Court is, the real secret of its success will be the staff and their passion for creating the very best quality of life for all of their residents.

• www.helenmcardlecare.co.uk

Live in Luxury at...

Fleming Court, Jesmond

Opening November 2016

Helen McArdle Care has been providing outstanding care throughout the North East of England for over 25 years. Fleming Court is a new, luxurious care home opening this November in the heart of Jesmond.

At our new flagship care home you can enjoy all of the facilities and care you would expect of a Helen McArdle Care Home and so much more. You can invite friends and family to join you for a meal in our restaurant, compete in a game of bowls on our bowling green or simply sit and watch the world go by from your luxurious suite.

Marketing Suite & Showroom

When living at Fleming Court you can relax in the knowledge that all of your needs are being cared for to the highest of standards, so that all you need to worry about is enjoying yourself.

Join us at our Marketing Suite to find out more about Fleming Court:

Facilities - Cinema CafĂŠ - Bar - Restaurant - Orangery - Balconies and Terraces - Bowling Green - Sensory Gardens - Hair and Beauty Salon - Evening Drinks Reception

Services - Concierge Service - Fine Dining - Dedicated Social Co-Ordinator - WiFi - iPads - Sky TV - Driver Service - Physiotherapy

For further information about Fleming Court or to book an appointment please call: 0191 461 8870 Fleming Court, Burdon Terrace, Jesmond

Jesmond United Reformed Church Burdon Terrace

Opening Times Saturday 24 September - 10am to Midday Saturday 8 October - 10am to Midday Thursday 13 October - 6pm to 8pm Saturday 22 October - 10am to Midday Saturday 29 October - 10am to Midday Thursday 3 November - 6pm to 8pm

T: 0191 461 8870

www.helenmcardlecare.co.uk

Helen McArdle Care

@HMCare

Art

W h a t ’s t h e

WO R D… ?

THE WORD, THE NATIONAL CENTRE FOR THE WRITTEN WORD, IS SOUTH TYNESIDE’S NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART CULTURAL VENUE BRIMMING WITH EXCITING NEW EXPERIENCES, ACTIVITIES AND FACILITIES FOR PEOPLE OF ALL AGES TO ENJOY.

T

he Word is the centrepiece of South Tyneside Council’s £100million regeneration of South Shields Town Centre, is located in Market Place, South Shields and is open seven days a week.

The Word hosts workshops, talks, performances, creative sessions and events for people of all ages and interests. Exciting exhibitions and events coming up include Sir Ridley Scott, Past, Present and Future Visionary exhibition running from 22 Oct until May and Immersive StoryWorld, a

magical world of fun, fantasy and adventure which features an immersive storytelling experience incorporating stunning backdrop projections and sound effects.

Other highlights in the packed range of activities includes Interactive digital experiences and FabLab @ The Word which not only provides a creative space for budding product designers and entrepreneurs to test out ideas and bring them to life, but also allows children, young people and adults with an interest in design the opportunity to access 3D

printers, vinyl and laser cutters as part of a programme of workshops to make objects from keyrings and fridge magnets to jewellery and decorations.

Join them on the first Friday evening of every month for a fantastic range of events and performances, from poetry slams to authors’ talks and folk singers to murder mystery nights, plus much more.

• A Full list of the many exciting events can be found at www.theworduk.org.

opening 22 october market pLace, south shieLDs

EXHIBITION 22 OCTOBER 2016 TO

2 May 2017

• Lost DiaLect exhibition • events, performances anD workshops • famiLy fun

www.theworduk.org

• immersive storyworLD

/worduk

• interactive activities

Supported by

autumn

89

2016

@theword_uk

theword_uk

The Carbarn is the Aston Workshops sister showroom & workshop that has a love of classic and exotic motorcars and bikes.

Concours, special bodied and interesting cars always available, always wanted and all part exchanges considered.

We can deliver anywhere or drystore your purchase with us in County Durham.

2016 Porsche 911 Carrera S Cab, New Turbo Engine, great specification, £105,000

1963 MINI Travellor, fully restored with original engine, £19,990

1968 Mercedes 280sl, euro spec & restored, £84,950

Willy’s Jeep, very original and used in WW2, £34,990

2000 Mini Cooper, one of the very last built, £21,995

1984 Porsche Carrera Cab, very original, £31,950

Tel. 01207 606 120 Gary Potts - sales 0782735195 sales@carbarn.co.uk www.carbarn.co.uk Red Row, Beamish, County Durham. DH9 0RW autumn

90

2016

Motoring

BEST OF

WE’VE COME OVER ALL PATRIOTIC AT LA DI DA TOWERS AFTER A SUMMER OF OLYMPIC HEROICS SO WE ASKED OUR MOTORING ED, LORD GRAHAM COURTNEY, TO CELEBRATE THE BEST AND MOST ICONIC BRITISH CARS…

I

f you needed to pick two car manufacturers that represent the full spectrum of what Best of British means, you couldn’t go far wrong by choosing Rolls Royce and Morgan.

At one end of the scale you have a manufacturer that stands for the ultimate in motoring luxury, while at the other end you have one which shouts British eccentricity.You couldn’t have a bigger contrast.

autumn

Before we go any further, and to prevent letters and emails flooding La Di Da, yes we know that Rolls Royce is owned by BMW, but the cars are built here in the UK at Goodwood. It’s a bit like Jaguar, MINI, Bentley, Land Rover…all traditional British companies who build their cars in Blighty but are foreign owned.

Morgan, on the other hand, is British through and through, remaining 100 per cent independent.

91

2016

Feature

HFS Morgan set-up the Morgan Motor Company in 1909 and, until 2013, there was a Morgan descendant on the board of directors.

While Morgan continues to produce cars which always reflect their history, things have moved on at Rolls Royce. The latest models, Phantom, Ghost, Wraith and Dawn, are all very much 21st Century. It sort of makes you wonder why BMW bought Rolls Royce.

Granted, it’s a perfect way to showcase their engineering prowess, especially their engines which power Rolls Royce cars, and no doubt they make a stack of cash from each vehicle, but the most likely reason is the answer to this question: would you pay £250,000 for a posh BMW? No; don’t be daft.

Mercedes tried the same trick when they launched the Maybach. It flopped and was quietly killed off in 2014.

Morgan have been a bit more sensible. They’ve stuck at what they know they’re good at. Those of us, dear reader, who’re of a certain age, will autumn

92

2016

Motoring

remember a BBC programme fronted by the top industrialist, Sir John Harvey-Jones. He visited the Morgan Motor Company at their quaint premises in Malvern, Worcestershire, and basically said they’re doomed. They should double production and aim their products at wealthy people. Morgan responded with a terse ‘no’, and that he was spouting a load of rubbish.

The problem with the late Sir, was that he didn’t ‘get’ what Morgan cars are all about.You need to be a bit odd to own one, especially something like the three-wheeler.You don’t need to be a billionaire.You need to be an enthusiast who can’t wait to sit in a car that feels as though you’re sitting on a plank of wood, with the rain water dripping onto your knees whilst enjoying a gale blowing around your ears.You also need to be delighted when the sales feller tells you that the waiting list is only 4 years before you receive your pride and joy.

And so there you have the brilliance of the good old British motor industry. After all the trouble and strife of the last thirty or forty years, we now produce more cars in this country than ever before.

Okay, this is due to the Nissan, Honda and Toyota factories based in the UK, but when it comes to the pinnacle of motor engineering, we have two polar opposites.

Rolls Royce, no matter what other manufacturers may claim, are at the top of the tree. Forget about the g’zillion pound price tags ‘cos the bottom line is that, if you want the ultimate car sitting in your air conditioned garage, it will wear a Rolls Royce badge.

Head for something like Berkeley Square in London

or the middle of Edinburgh to find one.

If you want a car that represents the most ridiculous yet superlative example of British motor engineering, then head for your local Morgan dealership. It’ll more than likely be based in a run-down shack in the middle of nowhere.

Thankfully, here in the North East, we’re a bit more civilised….they’re at the Car Barn in Beamish, Co.Durham, sister company to the iconic Aston Workshop. If you really want to frighten the life out of the neighbours, go for the Plus 8 or the Aero.

We know which one, Roller or Mog, we’d rather be punting around the roads of Durham, Northumberland and North Yorkshire.You even get a choice of three or four wheels. autumn

93

2016

Feature

Classy Cars WE LOVE INDIVIDUAL AND STYLISH MOTORS SO WE SENT OUR MOTORING ED GRAHAM COURTNEY TO PAY HOMAGE TO THE NORTH’S MORGAN MECCA…

I

f you are into classic cars or are lucky to own one, then you really should pay a visit to Beamish Morgan housed in what is known as The Car Barn. It’s a stone’s throw from Beamish Museum.

As you’ll gather from the name, they’re the region’s one and only Morgan dealer and the cars are on display in a barn. Okay, it might look like a barn so that it fits in with the surrounding buildings, but it’s actually a smart, hi-tech showroom. This is an Aladdin’s Cave of the most wonderfully exotic, evocative, classic and yes whacky cars. Sitting amongst the Morgans you will find a 1951 Aston Martin Lagonda, a Land Rover Series 1, several Mercedes SL models, one of the last original Minis, a VW Camper Van which, importantly, has a split windscreen, a Porsche 911 Cabriolet, one of the prettiest Lotus Elans you will ever see and of course, the daddy of eccentricity, the Morgan 3-wheeler.It’s worth mentioning that the guys at the Car Barn are so confident in their classic cars that all of them autumn

94

2016

Motoring

come with a warranty. Many have been restored.

Some have been totally rebuilt. All of them are fully sorted and ready to give years of enjoyment. If you have a classic car that either needs servicing, repairing or restoring, get in touch with the Car Barn. They’ll take care of everything.

When it comes to Morgans, this dealership is going places.Very shortly, they will have the jawdroppingly gorgeous Morgan Aero 8 available for a test drive. Thankfully, here at La Di Da, we’ve got a bit of pull. We’ve already been in one.

The Aero 8 was unveiled at the Geneva Motorshow. The reaction was one of astonishment.

There are the classic, unmistakeable Morgan lines, but there is also a sense of power and speed.

Talking of power, look under the bonnet and you will find a tried and tested BMW V8 4.8 litre, 367bhp engine. Bearing in mind that this Morgan is built on an aluminium chassis, you won’t be surprised to find out that the Aero 8 is quick. Let’s face it, that thumping engine hasn’t got a lot of weight to haul around. 0-60 takes 4.5 seconds. Top speed is 170mph. The 6-speed manual gearbox (an auto ‘box is an option…we prefer the manual autumn

95

2016

though) is light and direct.Is it an involving drive?

You bet it is, for no other reason than Morgan doesn’t bother with a load of clever electronic driver aides. They’re for whimps. However, gone are the days when powerful Morgans used to bite back and chuck you into a hedge. They’re now much more civilised and hugely rewarding to punt along.

The sound is glorious too.

The interior is really smart and wonderfully crafted. The mohair hood offers a neat trick too.

Flick a switch and it stows beneath the boot lid which rises up like a clam.You can opt for a solid, coupé roof as an option.

The Aero 8 is Morgan at its very best.You get the traditional Morgan hand crafted workmanship, and you also get 21st Century technology in terms of electronics and power. It’s £79,000 of exclusivity.

If you’ve never enjoyed the thrill of driving a Morgan, we’d suggest you get in touch with Beamish Morgan at the Car Barn.You can also be one of the first people in the UK to get behind the wheel of an Aero 8. Let the love affair begin.

• www.carbarn.co.uk

Feature

Society DOGS DINNER The fine and fashionable attended our very first Pooch soiree held at the fabulous and very dog friendly Hotel du Vin Newcastle.

And they certainly dressed to impress.

Owners and pooches alike dazzled in tweeds, bowties and tiaras to sip champagne, eat cake and view the latest AW16 trends for Haute Hounds.

Kate Walton, owner of the fashion boutique Have to Love in Gosforth and award winning fashionista was on hand with her dog Dolly to judge most stylish owner and pet and it was a tough challenge!

The pooches feasted on deluxe pupcakes, peanut butter wheat cakes with cream cheese, sesame seed, herb, and coconut carob topping and lots of delicious doggy treats provided by the fabulous www.doggycake.co.uk and Doggy Beer provided by the luxury doggy retailer www.bestinshow.co.uk.

After Afternoon Tea, we shopped till we dropped. Quirky and on point bow ties, bandanas and harnesses were available at the Bow Wow Ties pop up (facebook/BowWow Ties) and gorge AW16 looks including Holly & Lil from The Designer Dog Company (www.designerdogcompany.co.uk).

Then time for a pamper with mrs mills Hound Couture including their iconic Snout So Soft Doggy Nose Balm (www. mrsmills.co.uk).

The La Di Da pooches would like to thank all of the staff at the wonderful Hotel du Vin Newcastle for hosting a lovely afternoon. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s definitely our favourite dog friendly place, super stylish and they love dogs, so one for your speed dial. (www.hotelduvin.com/newcastle).

Photography by Jade Turnbull (www.jadephotography-online.com)

autumn

96

2016

Feature

Society FASHION LAUNCH LA Di DA was invited to the VIP opening of designer store Flannels. com at Intu Metrocentre. Members of the Newcastle United squad were amongst the first to shop the new store with stars such as Dwight Gayle and Ayoze Perez in attendance. Sunderland football star Fabio Borini also attended alongside his wife Erin as well as Geordie Shore star James Tindale with his partner Kate Thorne.

Models showcased the latest collections from Self-Portrait, Jimmy Choo, Stone Island, DSquared2,Versace Collection, McQ Alexander McQueen and Y-3. Local DJ Tommy Byron provided the tunes and local restaurant The Botanist served up delish canapes whilst guests sipped on mini bottles of Lanson Champagne.

Flannels also opened a fabulous new store in Sunderland earlier in the summer.

Society

Maddie’s

MADELEINE COSTIGAN IS A FREELANCE TV STYLIST AND GIRL ABOUT TOWN. SHE GIVES US THE INSIDE GOSS ON HER GLAM LIFE...

world

T

hat’s another school holidays over…

I know it’s a cliché but where does the time actually go??

As soon as September approaches, the countdown to Christmas officially starts and I always look forward to the imminent clock change where wearing your PJ’s and having a glass of fizz at 5pm is acceptable as its dark outside plus the party season begins.

Looking back over the last few months, I have had some great highlights. The most exciting being an invite to Kensington Palace to have dinner with HRH the Duchess of Cambridge (Kate to you and me). The event was a celebration for the charity Sports Aid who I have been supporting over the last few months in their fundraising, as they are celebrating 40 years in helping the next generation of British Olympians, Paralympians and world champions.

Kate is the patron of the charity and it was an honour to attend such a special and inspiring event. I was excited of course to check out what Kate would be wearing! Whilst en route (via a cheeky trip to Selfridges) I met the brilliant actor Bill Nighy (Love Actually etc), he was a true gent and posed for a picture with me.

I had a wardrobe panic trying to find a dress suitable for the occasion, I mean what do you

actually wear to dinner at the palace…a gown?

A crown? I ditched the crown but found a beautiful blush pink evening ‘gown’ which suited the event, teamed with gold heels and simple elegant accessories.

We decided to stay in the UK for our family holiday over the summer and we went to one of my favourite places, Langdale, which holds so many amazing memories for me as a child.

Everyone likes to dress up and put their high heels on now and again, but equally it’s just as liberating to pull on your Joules wellies and Barbour jacket and enjoy the country lifestyle.

We ate out in lots of lovely places including ‘The Drunken Duck’. The ‘Langdale’ estate is home to various sized lodges and two hotels with restaurant, bar, pool etc. I have yet to stay in their 5* hotel ‘Brimstone’ but it looks amazing. It’s the perfect setting for a family break, romantic getaway or girlie weekend. They are in the process of building a brand spanking new spa too so I’ll be back very soon!

I also attended the Durham County Cricket Ladies Day, which was a brilliant

day out. There was very little cricket being watched by us which became evident when Sky Sports live coverage zoomed in on us where not one of my group were watching the sport, and were just nattering away with fizz in our hands.

I wore my new cobalt blue bandage dress from the fabulous new boutique ‘Christian Alexander’ in Norton village.

The school holidays ended with a lovely mini break to Port Portals in Majorca with my big sister. I went on a recommendation and what a gorgeous place it is. We enjoyed sunshine, cocktails, good food, people watching, yacht spotting (and dreaming of owning one), quality sister time and lots of laughing! (imagine Patsy and Eddie from Ab Fab and that kind of sums us up when we are together).

The ‘Mood Beach Club’ was one of the highlights, chilling out on their big beds enjoying the peace and quiet with a mojito in hand… what more could you possibly want! I couldn’t resist a celeb selfie while I was there with the lovely Michelle Keegan and Mark Wright who were sat next to us at dinner one night.

I have had a hectic few months working on various TV shoots which have all been very exciting. Lots of exciting events in the pipeline for work and charity so I will be keeping myself out of trouble.

Until next time…

• Check out my blog www.maddieness.co.uk

autumn

98

2016

Posh Moggy

Meet Riley, the fabulous Jesmond Dene Houseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s resident cat. Riley, or Lord Riley as we like to call him, lives in a cat palace just by the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main entrance and is very sought after by all the celebs and glitterati that come to stay at the stylish hotel. Riley is modelling a cat bowtie from luxury pet site www.bestinshow.co.uk.

Posh MOGGY Photography: Jade Turnbull www.jadephotography-online.com

autumn

99

2016

R E S TA U R A N T • R O O M S • P U B

l o rd c r e w e a r m s b l a n c h l a n d . c o . u k

TA K E A P E E K

Lo rd C r e w e A r m s • T h e S q u a r e • B l a n c h l a n d • N o r t h u m b e r l a n d • D H 8 9 S P T: 0 1 4 3 4 6 7 5 4 6 9 • E : e n q u i r i e s @ l o rd c r e w e a r m s b l a n c h l a n d . c o . u k