So Guildford Magazine by Magazine People

GUILDFORD

100

MICHELIN RESTAURANT REVIEWED

WIN

£1,000 LUXURY SPA DAY

RICHEST ROADS REVEALED

T HE EXC LUSI VE M AGA Z I NE FO R A N EXC LUS IV E TOWN

CHIC BOUTIQUES HOW TO STAY IN VOGUE THIS SEASON

ART OF INVESTING DISCOVER THE NEXT WARHOL

BUGATTI GALIBIER

THE EXQUISITE MILLION POUND FOUR DOOR SALOON

JUNE 2010 £1.50 WWW.SOGUILDFORD.CO.UK

ISS UE 1

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GUILDFORD

SO G UIL D FO R D

SURREY DINING

Victoria Beckham WHAT MAKES HER SO SPECIAL

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Hello... Allow us to introduce you to this new glossy, lifestyle magazine. It’s called So Guildford and, as you might expect, it’s emerged from the minds of some of the finest writers, designers and publishers in the land. Each month we aim to mirror all that’s best about Guildford and the surrounding area through a publication that’s unique; it’s on sale at newsagents while complimentary copies are delivered to high-income homes. Those homes fall within a circle of Guildford marked by places like Godalming, Dorking, Leatherhead, Weybridge, Camberley and Farnham. Every one of our pages has been passionately crafted to amuse, stimulate, motivate and excite. Every page is designed to reflect local heritage, culture and style by offering an intelligent and entertaining read representing the tastes, interests and attitudes of our area – and hopefully of you! We promise to regularly deliver the best interviews and stories, including topical and relevant features guaranteed to get everyone talking. For example, this launch issue reveals for the first time the Richest Roads, the top 100 most expensive places to live, the avenues, lanes and byways with the most desirable addresses. It makes fascinating reading with the Number One spot showing average house prices of almost £10million. We also look through the keyhole of a £2.2million family home in Compton up for sale and remind you to place an order for the new £1million Bugatti Galibier 16C to keep on your own drive. On the fashion front we name the leading boutiques, what labels they offer and their tips on trends this Summer. And to make sure you look great wearing your new wardrobe, there’s the chance to win £1,000 worth of pampering at Clay Salon and Spa in Oxshott. On top of all that, we chat to comedian Ruby Wax as she pays a flying visit, find out about the Guildford man who claimed to make gold and we beg the question: Does Drake’s Restaurant really live up to all the hype? Grab a coffee, then, put your feet up and savour the read!

So Guildford

info@magazinepeople.co.uk For full contact details see Page 6 JUNE 2010

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GUILDFORD

InsIde your

June

THIs MonTH you sHouLd…

noW For THe neWs

rICHesT roAds

Find out how the Icelandic volcano has benefited one local business, how cage fighting might be coming to town and how Guildford Council is spending millions of pounds on consultants.

Does your home feature on our exclusive list of the most expensive addresses in and around Guildford? It’s the property review that’ll be the talk of the town – guaranteed.

PosH V BeCKs

He’s failed to make the World Cup squad. She’s wowed the fashion world with her latest collection. Is Victoria Beckham’s career finally outstripping that of her ageing, superstar husband?

Splash out on one of the new shockproof, underwater cameras, watch Shakespeare at Guildford Castle and win a bottle of our special Cognac. Just a few of the finer things to appreciate in June.

30 CoVer FeATure:

Issue…

FAsHIon InsIder – WoMen Our inside look at the trends hitting the streets this Summer and they’re all available in Guildford or online. Louboutin heels for £1,125 anyone?

FAsHIon InsIder – Men As the sun comes out it’s all about pulling on some cotton shorts, hopping into a pair of deck shoes and grabbing a trilby before heading out the door.

BouTIQues, LABeLs, Trends We name the top local boutiques, tell you what brands they offer and what they think you should be wearing. It’s a must read for all fashionistas.

CHILd’s PLAy

BesPoKe KITCHens

CounTry reTreAT

WIn A sPA dAy To help you look great this Summer, we’re offering the chance to win £1,000 worth of head-to-toe pampering treatments at Clay Salon & Spa in Oxshott.

Cupcake dresses for the girls and tin robots for the boys; there’s plenty on offer to fill the playroom this month.

Cover image: AP Images

Designers are branching out into the modern arena and embracing the clean lines of contemporary minimalism. See what you think.

One property truly worthy of a place on our list of Richest Roads is Sandyknowe at Compton. We borrow the keys for a look around this £2.2million classic country pad.

JUNE 2010

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GUIDING LIGHT

WAXING LYRICAL

ON STAGE

58 82

FANTASY ISLAND Your chance to buy that Caribbean island you’ve always wanted and it’ll cost you just £33million.

THE GALLERY Colin Carruthers, Marie Mills and David Atkins are among the artists whose work is featured on the gallery wall this month.

INVESTING IN ART

THE ITALIAN’S JOB

When Ruby Wax breezed into town we popped into her dressing room to talk about her time at The Priory clinic, her thoughts about President Obama and hot tubs.

The ultimate guide to the best theatre productions taking centre stage this month in Surrey and the West End. Curtains up!

BIGGER, BETTER, BUGATTI The world’s most expensive four door saloon, the £1million Bugatti Galibier 16C, is heading for a showroom near you. We give it the once over.

We investigate the interesting parallel between auction sales of contemporary art and the prime property market. Does one follow the other?

Carlo Crosta has been dishing it out at his Newlands Corner restaurant for 25 years and his customers just love him. We talk to the man himself about the secret of his success.

Our discerning foodie Damian Cotton heads for Drake’s in Ripley to find out if the place stands up to scrutiny. Is it really our finest restaurant?

GOLD FINGERS Each month we delve into the Guildford archives to bring you a tale from our past. So, meet the man who claimed to make gold, fooled a king and then killed himself.

JUNE 2010

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GUILDFORD

Head Office, Studio Six, Sussex Mews The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5QJ Tel: 01892 616103 soguildford.co.uk info@magazinepeople.co.uk Publishing Director Nick Moore nick@magazinepeople.co.uk Sales Director Sharon Lacey sharon@magazinepeople.co.uk Editorial Director Richard Moore FRSA richard@magazinepeople.co.uk Senior Writer Melissa Woodland melissa@magazinepeople.co.uk Writer Dan Smith dan@magazinepeople.co.uk Head of Design Jodie Arundell jodie@magazinepeople.co.uk Designer Erica Morris erica@magazinepeople.co.uk Production Assistant Phil Glover phil@magazinepeople.co.uk Account Managers: Stephen Bromley stephen@magazinepeople.co.uk Paul Wood paul@magazinepeople.co.uk Contributors Valerie Thacker Damian Cotton Denny Gaskell Andy Barnard Harriet Louvelle Published and designed by The Magazine People Ltd. Printed by Warners Ltd.

Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/SoGuildford All rights reserved. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions relating to advertising or editorial. The publisher reserves the right to change or amend any competitions or prizes offered. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent from the publisher. No responsibility is taken for unsolicited materials or the return of these materials whilst in transit.

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GUILDFORD

Cycle… Here’s an exercise bike that you won’t be using to hang your clothes on. In fact, it’s one that you’ll probably be tempted to make the centerpiece of your living room. This stunning piece of equipment is The Ciclotte, an Italianbuilt (of course) machine crafted from carbon fibre, steel and fiberglass. This four-foot masterpiece was ergonomically designed so that your posture aids a ‘biomechically correct workout’ - something that you’d hope for when shelling out £7,500 for a bit of gym kit. Visit ciclotte.com

This month Read…

Jodi Picoult is the biggest-selling female author in the UK, so her new novel House Rules is certainly worth a read. Picoult is able to construct delicate moral dilemmas within her narratives, forcing the reader to question their own values. In House Rules Jacob Hunt, an Asperger’s-suffering teenager, becomes a murder suspect when his carer is found dead. Emma, his single mother is stretched to her limits when helping her son becomes her key priority. Meanwhile, Theo, Jacob’s younger brother, begins to rebel as all focus in on the troubled teen. A poignant, powerful and often amusing novel. £16.99 Waterstone’s, Guildford. 01483 302 919

Listen…

Band of Horses’ new album Infinite Arms sees the American five-piece further hone their country-meets-indie-pop sound on this, their third studio release. The 13-track album was recorded over the course of a year and a half of cross-country travelling and has produced what is arguably the ’Horses best album yet. Indulge yourself in this unique band’s lazy melodies, subtle harmonising and thoroughly enjoyable modern take on country music. £10 from HMV, Guildford 01483 565 650

Strut…

Camouflage print is back in use on the style battlefield. Utility wear can be a tricky trend to pull off and look feminine, so steer clear of big areas of print. Instead, introduce the utilitarian look through accessories, such as a camo clutch. Or try these Giuseppe Zanotti sandals on for size and team them with a pair of black silk harem pants. It’s elegant but with an edge. Giuseppe Zanotti Camouflage sandals, £405, cruisefashion.co.uk

JUNE 2010

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THIS MONTH

Snap… We’ve all been there; you’re on holiday having a great time when your camera gets full of sand… or someone spills bubbly on it… or you drop it off the hotel balcony. Now, you can forget all that thanks to Olympus Mju TOUGH series of cameras; all of which are shockproof, waterproof and freezeproof. The top-of-the-range 12 Megapixel 8010 (£399) features a built-in 2GB of memory and 28mm wide angle lens, perfect for underwater landscapes and distant shots. And if you think this ‘tough’ label is just a gimmick, one of these was recently found near a shipwreck off the coast of Estonia. The camera, which had been submerged for over a year, simply required a new battery and by studying the photos divers found its owner, who had lost the camera while swimming at the site the previous year. Jessops Guildford, 01483 574 521

you should… Peruse…

Whether you’re a gardening expert, or just an amateur looking for some tips, the Losely Gardening Show will have plenty of inspiration and ideas for your patch of land over the Summer months. But even if you’re not famous for your green fingers there’s plenty to get up to; highlights of the day include a farmers’ market, local pub BBQ competition and stunning flower displays. The show runs from Friday June 18 to Sunday June 20 and with over 40 exhibitors, promises to be one of the most successful garden shows yet, all situated in the stunning grounds of Losely Park stately home. Family tickets are £18, see loseleygardeningshow.co.uk

Blend…

Sip…

Kenwood just can’t help adding to its range of food processors and with this behemoth of a machine, now claim to have created their best yet. The Multipro Excel features all the usual Kenwood staples like high-quality build, a powerful motor and simplistic, stylish design, but with the Multipro they’ve also added a built-in set of scales. This addition makes even complicated recipes seem simple and with three mixing bowls to boot, this is the ultimate accompaniment to creating delicious delights. £299.99 from John Lewis, Kingston Upon Thames. 020 8547 3000

Those who see Cognac as a drink for seasoned connoisseurs only - think again. The new bottle from Rémy Martin, Coeur de Cognac (which translates as Heart of Cognac), is blended to appeal even to brandy newcomers. Our friends at Rémy suggest trying it with a few cubes of ice, just to enhance the fruity notes of apricots and pears. We’ve a few bottles to give away, so either email us on info@magazinepeople.co.uk or send us a postcard (see p.6), with your name, address and phone number marked “Coeur de Cognac”. Otherwise, it’s available from Selfridges, Harrod’s and selected Tesco stores. £37.99.

JUNE 2010

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GUILDFORD

Watch…

Now entering their fifth and longest season of open air theatre, The Guildford Shakespeare Company is going from strength to strength. In June the Company will be kicking off the season by performing one of The Bard’s early comedies, Love’s Labour’s Lost, at the Guildford Castle grounds. Shakespeare’s dazzling celebration of young love, bursting with colour, engrossing wit and glorious word play opens on Thursday June 17 and will run until Saturday July 3, no performances on Sundays. Tickets are £18, concessions £16.50. Visit guildfordshakespeare-company.co.uk for more information.

Wear…

Fashion boutique Little London has unveiled their second collection under their own label. Spring/Summer 10 ushers in beautifully cut wardrobe staples, such as the fitted silk/ linen pencil skirt (£155) and a safari-inspired shirt-dress in a seasonally-appropriate denim chambre (£275). The capsule collection features Liberty silk lined tailoring and easy to wear cashmere cardigans. The stand-out piece, however, is the Audrey dress. With it’s shell top and exquisitely draped skirt, it’s demure yet sexy; perfect for a day out at the races or that Summer wedding you’ve been invited to. We love it in the Black Dancer print. £325, Little London. 11 Angel Gate, Guildford. 01483 457 357

Rent…

Colin Firth’s most recent film A Single Man earned a number of Bafta and Oscar nominations upon it’s cinematic release. Now, this stylish film which is set in 60’s California, is available on DVD and Blu-ray. If you missed it at the cinema, here’s the chance to catch the film that reinvigorated Colin’s career and marked the directorial debut of fashion designer Tom Ford. Far from easy watching, this film engages the viewer from the opening scenes, so reserve an evening, pour a Cognac and enjoy. From Blockbuster, 01483 562 009

Enjoy… Sir Edward Elgar is one of the most respected of the modern English composers. But despite this, the Royal Mint is removing his portrait from the £20 note at the end of June. To celebrate his works, a selection of pieces will be played at the Cathedral on Saturday June 12 by the Guildford Philharmonic Orchestra, accompanied by the Guildford Choral Society. The collaboration, entitled Elgar on a Summer’s Evening, is in its sixth year and has become a staple in the Guildford calendar, truly marking the coming of summer. Tickets for the Nave - £23, West Gallery - £19 and concessions - £5. Call 01483 444 777

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TUNBRIDGE WELLS

ocToBER 2009

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NEWS

AND NOW FOR

THE NEWSÉ

OUR MONTHLY LOOK AT SOME OF THE STORIES, BOTH LIGHT HEARTED AND SERIOUS, MAKING THE HEADLINES

BUSINESS ERUPTS

Every volcanic cloud has a silver lining. A Guildford company has seen phone calls from the public shoot up during the Icelandic eruption all because of its name – Ash Removals. The home removals business is owned by Simon Fennemore and Adam Dracott who say people searching for information about the clouds of ash that brought about a ban on all flying, stumble across their company by accident. The pair believes that even though they might not be the ash removal operation callers were looking for, the whole incident has raised their profile and might help them in the long term. The business partners have also been the butt of jokes with people stopping their branded lorries and telling them: “You’re not doing a very good job, I’m meant to be on holiday in Menorca with the wife.”

C O N S U LT I N G CONSULTANTS

Chartered surveyors, lawyers and leisure experts are among the professionals to receive more than £5million in consultancy fees from Guildford Borough Council over the last three years. Biggest beneficiary was property consultancy Colliers which was paid £50,000 for advice on the redevelopment of Bedford Road car park. It also received £54,000 for help on the Guildford Civic Hall replacement. According to the council “consultants are employed to provide expertise which would not be economic for the council to employ on a full time basis.” Spending on consultants has shown a downward trend over the last three years.

YOURS FAITHFULLY

Married couples in Surrey are among the most faithful in the country, if the results of a nationwide survey are to be believed. Research by OnePoll suggest that less than 1 per cent of respondents in the county are having an extra-marital affair. The national average is 3 per cent. However, when you ask if the men and women in Surrey have ever cheated on their partners the number almost doubles to 2 per cent. This, though, is in sharp contrast to the most unfaithful county (Devon) where 47 per cent claim they have had an affair. More than 4,000 married couples took part in the survey.

COP OUT

An online survey by Surrey Police about radical plans to close police stations and relocate front counters to council offices, supermarkets and town centres has drawn a luke warm response. Only 90 residents logged on with the majority supporting closures if it means more officers pounding the beat. Chief Constable Mark Rowley wants to sell off ageing police stations to help plug a £25million three year funding deficit. He also hopes it will pay for an extra 200 recruits.

FIGHTING FIT

Cage fighting could soon be on the menu at Guildford’s Mandolay Hotel which has applied for a license to stage combat sports that would also include boxing, wrestling, karate and kickboxing. The hotel will be the only venue in the borough to host such events if the council gives the green light. It seems the people at the Mandolay were much impressed with proceedings when they attended a charity boxing night in Woking. No changes would need to be made at the hotel in order to stage the events. The British Medical Association is calling for cage fighting to be banned.

MUSIC MILLIONAIRES

Shackleford resident Cheryl Cole has landed fourth spot in the Sunday Times Rich List of Music Millionaires under the age of 30. The tabloid favourite, currently in the middle of a high profile separation from footballer husband Ashley Cole, has seen her earnings jump 150 per cent in the last year thanks to advertising deals with the likes of L’Oreal and Coke Zero. Her bank balance now stands at £10 million. Other locals making the main Music Millionaires list are Cranleigh’s Ringo Starr in 15th place with estimated wealth of £140 million and Ripley’s Eric Clapton three places lower with £125 million. Queen drummer Roger Taylor, who lives in Puttenham, is placed 35th with £70 million. JUNE 2010

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Harrods, Third Floor, Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7XL

Telephone 0207 893 8325 Email harrods@clive.com

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GuIldford

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a fact that GuIldford Is one of the most desIrable places to lIve In the country. but where In the borouGh Itself are the hot-spots, the best addresses? we reveal all wIth our exclusIve lIst of the 100 rIchest roads Words Melissa WoodlaNd photography by: andy barnard

Richest Roads 18

June 2010

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RICHEST ROADS

uying your own home is probably one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make in your life. And exactly where you buy the bricks and mortar is crucial because, as we all know, it’s about location, location, location.

That’s why So Guildford has put together its very own list of the Richest Roads based on average current property values. It makes interesting reading! Glorious Guildford consistently attracts accolades, and rightly so. It was described as the fifth most recession-proof town in a survey by estate agents Knight Frank and, in a nationwide poll by Channel 4, it was named the twelfth best place to live in the UK. Our mission, though, is to find out where exactly in the town you should be looking to buy and live if you want one of the top addresses (That’s if you’re not already in residence).

So Guildford researchers have spent the last couple of months identifying, for the very first time, the 100 roads that head the list of the priciest places to set up home. How have we done it? Well, we’ve trawled through the sale prices of the thousands of homes that have been sold in the last few years in the important GU1, GU2, GU3 and GU4 postcodes. We’ve also drawn on the expertise of some of Guildford’s most prestigious estate agents, harnessed more than a little inside knowledge and worked with recognised industry experts. All this data has been drawn together and analysed to establish average current house values for each of the streets that make up our 100 richest. So, on the pages that follow, you’ll find an essential guide to the most sought-after addresses in the postcodes where many of our readers live.

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GUILDFORD

01 02 03 04 05 06 20

Halfpenny Lane, Chilworth (GU1) Average Price £9,278,700

Northdown Lane (GU1)

Average Price £2,175,400

Longdown Road (GU4)

Average Price £2,013,900

Rodsall Lane, Puttenham(GU4) Average Price £1,877,600

White Lane (GU4)

Average Price £1,716,000

Burdenshot Hill, Worplesdon (GU3) Average Price £1,509,000

07 08 09 10 11 12 13

Church Lane, Worplesdon (GU4) Average Price £1,456,400

The Avenue, Compton (GU3) Average Price £1,442,700

Highfield Lane, Puttenham(GU3) Average Price £1,438,600

Compton Heights (GU3)

Average Price £1,432,900

Sutton Park, Sutton Green(GU4) Average Price £1,430,700

Parkchase (GU4)

Average Price £1,275,900

Fairway (GU1)

Average Price £1,250,600

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RICHEST ROADS

Research shows that the average price of a home in the Guildford area (£362,276) is an impressive 80 percent higher than the rest of the UK (£200,956). But if you’re aiming for the top of our Richest Roads list you’ll need to spend about fifty times the national average to get the keys to a home at our Number One spot. And you won’t be able to pick up anything in the Top 100 unless you have about £750,000 to spend. Does this mean that house prices in Guildford have stood firm against the tide of doom, gloom and plummeting values we see elsewhere in the country? Manager of local estate agent Gascoigne-Pees, David Driscoll, thinks so: “Overall, the market has remained strong, though we did see a small dip in some of the less desirable areas in late 2008. If people didn’t have to move during that period, they didn’t. So though there may have been fewer houses changing hands for about 18 months, average prices were far more stable than elsewhere in the country.” It’s fair to say that this trend is reflected in our research. Just over 1,100 homes were sold in Guildford in the last twelve months, at an average price of £345,532. And values over the last year are actually up by 4.5 percent, again higher than the national average rise (3.6 percent). On to the list itself, then, as we head for GU1 to visit the richest of Guildford’s roads. Just a couple of miles south of the town centre lies the coveted top spot. Streets ahead of its closest rivals in terms of price, Halfpenny Lane boasts an average house value of £9,278,700. Its place at the top might come as a surprise but with just 26 homes on this prized road, they rarely come on the market, meaning it’s not necessarily the first address that springs to mind. David Driscoll says that this paucity adds to the appeal. “A property on Halfpenny Lane really is the dream for local estate agents – it’s one address I’d love to have on my books. There are only a few houses on the road, and once people have managed to buy one, they tend to stay there for years. The scarcity of homes keeps prices high and the properties in demand.” This one and a half mile stretch of road comprises mainly fields and coppices, with a smattering of imposing manor houses and country piles. Most of the homes boast a full-size tennis court or swimming pool; some have both. Even the agricultural buildings appear luxurious. Aside from the obvious, why is Halfpenny Lane so desirable? “It’s a fantastic location,” says Manager of Hill Clements, Richard Howell. “It offers an easy commute for those who work in the city. Front door to Canary Wharf takes less than an hour, yet when you get home you’ve got great views of rolling countryside. Plus, the cobbled streets of Guildford’s shopping district are only a few minutes away.”

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23

The Fairway, Worplesdon (GU3) Average Price £1,240,700

Sandy Lane (GU3)

Average Price £1,234,000

Lawfords Hill Close, Worplesdon (GU3) Average Price £1,216,800

Green Lane, West Clandon (GU3) Average Price £1,215,700

Runtley Wood Lane, Sutton Green (GU4) Average Price £1,213,700

Bradstone Brook, Shalford (GU4) Average Price £1,199,600

Fort Road (GU1)

Average Price £1,184,500

Guildown Avenue (GU2)

Average Price £1,173,300

Downsway (GU1)

Average Price £1,151,400

Flower Walk (GU2)

Average Price £1,131,700 JUNE 2010

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RICHEST ROADS

24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Chantry View Road (GU1)

Average Price £1,125,600

Warwicks Bench Road (GU1) Average Price £1,109,500

The Common Compton (GU3) Average Price £1,103,600

School Lane, Puttenham (GU3) Average Price £1,086,800

Cranley Dene (GU1)

Average Price £1,079,100

Crown Heights (GU1)

Average Price £1,077,500

Blackheath (GU4)

Average Price £1,075,200

It’s time to check out the second on our list of palatial locations, so we head a short distance east to visit Northdown Lane (GU1). It’s a private road right on the outskirts of the town’s sprawl and most of the eight houses that make up the lane back on to open countryside. With an average price of £2,175,400, a pad here is significantly more affordable than one in Halfpenny Lane, though you’ll still need to cash in some of those shares or find a generous bank manager. Number three, Longdown Road (GU4), is just round the corner from Halfpenny Lane and the average sale is still a whopping £2,013,900. To reach number four, we journey to the quaint little village of Puttenham. Rodsall Lane (GU3) is the location of four dwellings with a mean value that falls a little short of £2million (£1,877,600 to be exact). Rounding off the top five, we have White Lane (GU4). The street, which is at a junction with Longdown and Halfpenny, offers 20-plus homes to choose from, each costing in the region of £1,716,000. The rest of the top ten lies just outside the town centre. Worplesdon’s Burdenshott Hill and Church Lane (GU3) take places six and seven with price tags of £1,509,100 and £1,456,400 respectively. The Avenue at Compton (GU3) is eighth (£1,442,700) while Highfield Lane in Puttenham is ninth (GU3, £1,438,600). Compton Heights (GU3) scrapes in to the top ten ahead of Sutton Park, though just a couple of thousand pounds separate them (£1,432,900 and £1,430,700). Dropping down the list, those ranked: •11-20 are priced from £1,430,700 to £1,184,500

JUST OUTSIDE… Outside of the Richest Roads list, here’s how our four postcodes reflected property sales overall. Postcode

Number sold*

Average Sold price

Average Value March 2010

GU1

378

£331,100

£351,400

GU2

323

£264,603

£281,594

GU3

109

£360,007

£429,801

GU4

217

£375,229

£386,214

Total sold in last year: 1,027

Average price: £321,605

Total sold in Surrey: 18,452

Average price: £328,394

*data refers to the preceding twelve months Average price in the UK for 2009: £200,956 – up 3.5 percent on previous 12 months (Land Registry statistics)

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GUILDFORD

31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38

East Shalford Lane (GU4)

Average Price £1,072,400

Aldershot Road, Normandy (GU3) Average Price £1,068,200

The Ridgeway (GU1)

Average Price £1,056,000

Old Portsmouth Road, Artington (GU3) Average Price £1,041,400

Clifford Manor Road (GU4)

Average Price £1,035,600

Storrs Lane, Worplesdon (GU3) Average Price £1,018,500

Echo Pit Road (GU1)

Average Price £1,016,100

Clandon Road, West Clandon (GU4) Average Price £995,300

39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48

Pilgrims Way (GU4)

Average Price £987,600

Upper Guildown Road (GU3) Average Price £978,100

Aldersey Road (GU1)

Average Price £973,100

Downside Road (GU4)

Average Price £969,500

Dedswell Drive, West Clandon (GU4) Average Price £957,700

Highcot Lane, West Clandon (GU4) Average Price £954,800

Woodway (GU1)

Average Price £947,300

Orchard Close, Epsom Road (GU1) Average Price £945,200

Austen Road (GU1)

Average Price £943,900

Abbotswood (GU1)

Average Price £937,100

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RICHEST ROADS

49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58

Whitmoor Common, Worplesdon (GU3) Average Price £934,200

East Flexford Lane, Wanborough (GU3) Average Price £924,700

Coombe Lane, Worplesdon (GU3) Average Price £920,800

Warwicks Bench Lane (GU1) Average Price £914,500

Little Warren Close (GU4)

Average Price £901,900

Epsom Road (GU4)

Average Price £894,700

Hogs Back, Compton (GU2)

59 60

Cobbett Hill, Normandy (GU3) Average Price £878,200

Bennett Way, West Clandon (GU4) Average Price £874,600

•21-30 go from £1,173,300 to £1,075,200 •places 31-40 are £1,072,400 to £978,100. It’s only at number 38 on our list, Clandon Road, that you can even think about picking up a house for less than £1million. •Those ranked 41-60 are priced £973,100 to £874,600 •61-80 are £874,000 to £809,700 •81-100 are between £809,000 and £741,100. The ‘richest’ area to live is in the GU1 postcode, where more than a third of our top 100 are located (38 roads). GU3 is the next wealthiest with 31, closely followed by GU4 with 28. GU2 contributes just three roads to the round-up. Some of our desirable addresses lie at the heart of the town. “The streets that look over Guildford are very popular,” says Richard Howell. “Homes on Guildown Avenue [21], Chantry View Road [24] and Warwicks Bench Road [25] are highly sought-after. They’re so close to the centre, yet offer spectacular views of both the town and the North Downs.” So, how many properties on our Richest Roads are actually going on the market? Well, of the 260 homes that have changed hands over the last ﬁve years (3 percent of all those sold in Guildford) just 20 were in our top ten.

Average Price £894,100

Oak Grange Road, West Clandon (GU4) Average Price £885,700

By Pass, Compton (GU3)

Average Price £882,900

Malacca Farm, West Clandon (GU4) Average Price £881,100 JUNE 2010

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FINAL 40... 61

Abbots Way

GU1

£874,000

Maori Road

GU1

£873,500

Bagshot Road, Worplesdon

GU3

£873,400

Poyle Road

GU1

£866,000

Pewley Bank

GU1

£857,500

Tilehouse Road

GU4

£853,300

Blakes Lane, East Clandon

GU4

£850,400

One Tree Hill Road

GU4

£850,400

Suffield Lane, Puttenham

GU3

£850,300

Holmesdale Close

GU1

£846,400

Chinthurst Lane, Shalford

GU4

£837,000

Cranley Close

GU1

£835,900

Lawfords Hill Road, Worplesdon

GU3

£835,800

Heath Mill Lane, Worplesdon

GU3

£824,700

Pewley Hill

GU1

£821,300

Great Quarry

GU1

£820,300

Puttenham Hill, Puttenham

GU3

£814,600

St. Omer Ridge

GU1

£813,900

Whitmoor Lane

GU4

£809,700

Monks Grove, Compton

GU3

£809,700

Sample Oak Lane, Chilworth

GU4

£809,000

High Pewley

GU1

£802,500

Burton Drive

GU3

£798,700

Littleton Lane

GU3

£795,400

Greatford Drive

GU1

£795,200

Churchill Road

GU1

£794,600

Three Pears Road

GU1

£788,800

Frog Lane, Sutton Green

GU4

£784,100

Abbot Road

GU1

£776,400

Hillier Road

GU1

£773,400

Beech Lawn

GU1

£768,400

Ganghill

GU1

£765,800

Malthouse Lane, Worplesdon

GU3

£760,700

Tangier Road

GU1

£753,000

Hilgay Close

GU1

£749,000

The Street, East Clandon

GU4

£747,900

Warwicks Bench

GU1

£743,700

New Pond Road, Compton

GU3

£742,200

Appletree Court

GU4

£742,200

100 Priorswood, Compton

GU3

£741,100

This comes as no surprise to the town’s estate agents. “There just aren’t enough homes coming on to the market in the £1million-plus price bracket,” explains Richard Howell. “In addition, some homes at the top end of the market are sold privately or through companies for tax purposes, so they won’t necessarily even go on to the open market. ”This list details some of the most desirable places to live within the town. People will wait years for a chance to buy a home in one of these roads. We’ve even had people willing to pay in excess of a million pounds for a property, with the plan to knock their purchase down and start again, just to buy in the right place.” David Driscoll agrees; “Last year we had a client who really wanted a property on Pilgrims Way [39 on our list]. Only six houses have come up for sale in the last five years, so when one became available, he bought it. It wasn’t his dream house, but it was his perfect location. He snapped up the first place that came along and then spent several hundred thousand pounds to make it the home he wanted.” Experts predict that this trend may change in the near future. With so few properties available, today’s sellers can almost name their price. But high prices will encourage more sellers to put their homes up for sale, giving buyers more choice… and more power. The market will inevitably find its equilibrium. In the meantime, if you’re looking to move, keep your eye out for a sale sign. The properties on our Richest Roads won’t stay on the market for long. SO

SO GUILDFORD WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE FOLLOWING LEADING LOCAL ESTATE AGENTS FOR THEIR INVALUABLE ASSISTANCE IN COMPILING THIS LIST: David Driscoll, Gascoigne-Pees 01483 553366 gpees.co.uk Richard Howell, Hill Clements 01483 300 300 hillclements.com

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ThE STORm hAS PASSEd, buT dEbT hANGS LikE A dARk CLOud OvER ThE hORizON

outlook

Economic

he UK equity market has erased losses suffered after the collapse of Lehman Brothers in September 2008, and so it seems has investor confidence. The fear of a ‘double dip’ has receded, although recovery optimism has been tempered lately by the eurozone debt crisis. A consistent theme running through all our work is to identify risks and we believe this is at the heart of successful wealth management.

As typically happens in the late-recession phase of the economic cycle, gains in prices have outpaced gains in earnings and strong equity has driven price-earnings ratios (PEs) higher. If history is any guide, the recovery phase typically brings lower returns for investors, as profits play catch-up with prices and PEs stop rising. This recovery, following a global credit crisis and recession, is likely to be longer than usual.

Emerging from a period of turmoil, we are now able to look to the future with optimism that economic growth is gaining traction, albeit weakly in Europe. Unprecedented government and bank support succeeded in bringing us this far, but it has come at the cost of huge debt burdens across the world. Sooner or later this will have to be unwound, with potentially far-reaching consequences.

Despite slower returns, Coutts believes equities will outperform both government and corporate bonds as recovery continues. Nevertheless, the performance of equity markets is becoming less even. As opposed to last year, when a rising tide lifted all boats, selecting the right stocks will be a more important driver of returns this year.

Some countries face much greater challenges than others and the UK is one of those facing an uphill battle in containing its debt and recovering from recession. For the euro-zone, the convergence that has taken place over the past two decades has been reversed by the global financial crisis, as headlines in euro-zone countries continue to remind us. When Coutts put together its 2010 Investment Outlook late last year, our central expectation was that global growth would be sustained, albeit at a somewhat anaemic rate for developed countries where consumers and governments needed to reduce their huge debt and credit remains tight. So far, so good. Recently there has been a trend of better-than-expected economic data for many economies, the UK included. The Global Purchasing Managers’ Index, a measure of manufacturing activity, has reached its highest level since late 2007, while world trade has recovered around two-thirds of lost ground. Yet economists’ forecasts for economic growth remain skewed to the downside. They continue to view the glass as half empty and consequently, risk assets may be in a position to respond positively to further good economic news. Evidence is mounting that US companies are ploughing improving profits into new investments, creating jobs. Investment in IT is picking up particularly robustly in America. This reflects both pent-up demand and the desire of companies to squeeze more productivity out of their labour force, following massive global cutbacks. The US labour market has also turned a corner, with the economy now creating jobs.

In Europe pressure from financial and fiscal crises is hurting companies with a domestic focus, while euro weakness should help exporters. In more range-bound equity markets, hedge funds may be better placed to implement profitable trades. Meanwhile, corporate bonds should continue to benefit from declining default rates and demand for their higher yields relative to government debt, which is vulnerable to further fiscal crises. Evaluating which mix of asset classes are the most appropriate, over which time horizon, are often key considerations for our clients. Are your savings and investments working as effectively as they can, given your attitude to risk? At Coutts in Guildford, the experienced team of Private Bankers have built up expertise in dealing with clients in such situations and are able to work closely with individuals and families to help them through what can be a challenging time. Alastair Graham, Client Partner, Coutts and Co For more information about becoming a Coutts client in Surrey, contact Alastair Graham on alastair.graham@coutts.com or 01483 299042, or visit www.coutts.com/guildford Coutts & Co is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Coutts & Co Registered in England No 36695 Registered Office 440 Strand London WC2R 0QS. Calls may be recorded.

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Posh v WORDS DAN SMITH

BECKS

HE’S FAILED TO MAKE THE FOOTBALL WORLD CUP TEAM BECAUSE HIS BODY “JUST GAVE UP” ON HIM. SHE’S JUST WOWED THE FASHION WORLD WITH HER LATEST COLLECTION. HAS THE CAREER OF VICTORIA BECKHAM FINALLY OUTSTRIPPED THAT OF HER SUPERSTAR HUSBAND? 30

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VICTORIA BECKHAM

ver the past decade Victoria Beckham has become one of the most recognised people on the planet. To her followers, she’s a modern-day Audrey Hepburn, a style icon with an international success story. To others she’s little more than a talentless singer who turned her eye to fashion. Today that has all changed! Even her detractors have to admit, through gritted teeth, that she’s undergone one of the biggest fashion reincarnations of all time. Her fourth collection, presented in London in April, drew admiration from even the most hard bitten fashionistas. Meanwhile hubby David has been left counting the cost of his relentless drive to make the World Cup team. Two years of non-stop soccer has led to an injury that will almost certainly mean the end of his international career if not his actual playing days. But while we might ponder what the future has in store for this most famous of couples, let’s remember one thing: Victoria Beckham is hugely successful at what she does best – being a celebrity. We all know the basics of the story. The Spice Girls, the marriage to David, the kids, the money, the clothes, the fame and, of course, those red-top headlines. The incredible thing about Victoria’s career is that, no matter how well she actually performs in any particular area of expertise, she’s consistently in the limelight. Victoria, now 36 and with three boys (Brooklyn, 11, Romeo, seven and Cruz, five), fully

understands the cult of the modern celebrity and is aware of how it’s a 24/7 job. She says: “If I go to the supermarket looking like ****, that affects my work. I’m selling an image…” That image is ‘Brand Beckham’, a phenomenon that survives by deploying intelligent and highly aggressive PR and marketing. For instance, when David fell out with fans at LA Galaxy in ’09, Victoria quickly organised a series of high profile interviews in the States to save his ailing reputation. When she came to launch her fashion label, Victoria called in support from Hollywood A-list friends such as Eva Longoria and Katie Holmes. But as savvy as the Beckham duo might be at spending their whole lives in front of the camera, they can’t do it all by themselves. Throughout Victoria’s career there has almost always been one man looking after her public life. Meet Simon Fuller, PR guru. This is the man behind Simon Cowell and the Pop Idol franchise (televised in over 30 countries). Since 2003, his Company, 19 Entertainment, has also managed the public life of the Beckhams. Simon Fuller has a great deal of clout and skill in his profession, although he can’t work magic. He did, after all, manage the dire pop group S Club7… remember them? You see, the kind of success enjoyed by Victoria and her husband is only possible if the person in question can capture the attention and imagination of the public at large. It is then the task of the PR manipulators to play to their strengths and to whip up interest and enthusiasm for the clients in an attempt to create one thing – an international brand. Simon Fuller readily acknowledges this fact and isn’t too modest about it: “My business is creating fame and celebrity. And I’m one of the best in the world. I know it to the finest detail.” Though this may sound all a bit cynical and cold, isn’t it the natural progression of our fascination for the cult of the celebrity? Entertainers have been centre stage objects of interest since show business began. Now it has just gone one step further. Professionals represent them and create “fame” from almost anything, sometimes simply being in the public eye.

▼

The level of intrusion into our stars’ lives means that they now play their celebrity persona almost every hour of every day. It’s as if their entire being becomes one continuous performance; the newspapers,

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VICTORIA BECKHAM

Team Beckham: Simon Fuller, Victoria & David

Victoria is the first to point this characterisation out: “I go into hair and makeup and I turn into ‘Victoria Beckham’. I’ll try on all my dresses, and I’ll pick out a handbag, and I’ll put on my shades. I instantly turn into this person, and it sort of feels like a character.” In this celebrity world, the ambitious Victoria Beckham is queen. First conquering the UK and Europe, and now America, where she’s apparently best friends with famous actors such as Katie Holmes, Eva Longoria Parker and Kate Beckinsale. Victoria exploded onto the UK scene, along with the rest of the Spice Girls, in 1996. They arrived at just the right time, both helping to create ‘Cool Britannia’ as well as cashing in on it. The grunge scene of the early 90s was dead and the optimism of New Labour mirrored the newfeminist philosophy of ‘Girl Power’. By this time Simon Fuller was already managing the band, despite not having actually launched them (the Spice Girls signed to him in 1995). The group’s massive early success stemmed from a combination of incredibly catchy bubble-gum pop, plus the social climate of the time which was hungry for celebrities. Always there to whip up a bit of extra cash and coverage, by the end of ’96 Simon Fuller had lined up sponsorship

deals with Pepsi, Walkers, Impulse, Cadbury’s and Polaroid. He makes no efforts to hide the fact that he‘d always intended to make the Spice Girls an international phenomenon: “On the first day I sat down with the girls, before we had a deal… it was agreed that we would go for it on a worldwide basis.” He’s highly rated by ‘Team Beckham’ who have a combined worth of about £125million. They even credit the PR guru with introducing them to each other at a football match in ‘96. Of the meeting David says: “He provided me with an introduction to a young lady called Victoria Adams, who went on to become Mrs Beckham. As I have said, I had a lot to thank him for.” Perhaps even back then, Mr Fuller saw the marketing potential of bringing the couple together. Or maybe that’s simply too cynical. None-the-less Victoria, on the back of the Spice Girls and her marriage, was on the way up. After their second album Spiceworld (1997) and their (awful) film, Spice World (1997), the girls took the ultimately foolish decision to fire Simon Fuller and manage the band themselves. The extra stress this put on the group, coupled with the loss of Fuller’s expertise meant that within six months Geri Halliwell had left, a live album was scrapped and an animated Disney film was canned. ▼

television shows, catwalks and book releases are the stage and we, the public, are the paying audience.

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singing and towards catwalks. Over the next few years, while the pair were in Spain, the British media kept reporting on the scandals, the spending and the juicy details of their relationship (including an alleged affair between David and the family’s nanny). Simon Fuller was earning his keep and offering the Beckhams advice on all aspects of their life, including the switch to America. “…Simon was integral to making my move to L.A Galaxy happen,” admits David, who saw the transfer earn him a staggering $48million a year (£29million). His team mates were on $12,900 (£7,800). David’s move to Major League Soccer (MLS) whipped up a great deal of interest in L.A Galaxy, in ‘soccer’ itself and specifically in the Beckhams. It was time for Victoria to once again don the celebrity cloak and shine. Victoria Beckham: Coming to America (2007) was a reality TV documentary aimed at introducing the Beckhams to the USA. Though described as “an orgy of self indulgence” by The New York Post it was the third most watched show in its timeslot and Victoria’s name was already becoming engrained in America’s consciousness. Scent of success: Victoria launches her new fragrance

Finally, after their lack-lustre third album, optimistically titled Forever (2000), the group split. Though most of the girls had a shot at the inevitable solo career, Victoria was probably the most successful, with the singles Out of Your Mind (2000), Not Such an Innocent Girl (2001) and A Mind of it’s Own (2002). None of these were anywhere near the caliber of pop of the Spice Girls and soon she was back clamouring for the management of Fuller following the collapse of girl power. After a brief stint attempting to re-brand Victoria as an R&B singer, it seems a change in direction was needed. Luckily this coincided with David’s transfer to Real Madrid and the footballer himself coming under the influence of Simon Fuller. By 2003 ‘Brand It Like Beckham’ finally came under the total control of Fuller’s Company, 19 Entertainment. At this stage David was bringing in over £15million a year from sponsorship alone, but was keen to further utilise Fuller’s expertise. David says: “Victoria and I started a business partnership with Simon a few years back because we wanted someone who we could trust to advise us on our careers and financial interests, and his help has been invaluable.” Simon Fuller went further than anyone in using David as a promotional tool for top brands and Victoria was, in a tactical play, moved away from

By June 2009, Forbes magazine ranked them the third highest earning couple in the USA, losing out to Jay-Z and Beyonce Knowles and Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith. The Beckhams appeared above Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie. Victoria’s focus was now on fashion, an area she had tentatively been moving into for a number of years and by the time she hit L.A. she was perfectly positioned. Back in 2000 she appeared on the catwalk as a guest model for Maria Grachvogel and later was the face of Dolce and Gabbana. Since 2004 Victoria’s gone from being a bit of a joke in the fashion world to a real success story. Current fans of her work include such high profile celebrities as Elle Macpherson, Gwyneth Paltrow and Jennifer Hudson. Victoria’s take on simple 60’s structures and timeless understated elegance has proven that her early popularity in the notoriously cliquey world of fashion was more than just beginner’s luck. Victoria, who has never been personally linked to any scandals or image-damaging mishaps, is currently riding the Hollywood wave while hubby is (sort of) sat at home looking for things to do. Could it be that the celebrity career of Mrs B has overtaken that of the ageing footballer? Sounds like a domestic brewing to me… although we won’t hear about it. Simon Fuller won’t let us. Bad for the Beckham brand, don’t you know! SO

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FA S H I O N

Fashion Insider: THIS MOWNOTMH EN Shining Star

London Fashion Week might be a distant, yet glamorous, memory, but one exhibitor’s work has stayed with us. Guildford-based Emma Hadley Jewellery showed for the first time during LFW Autumn/Winter10 and we’re enchanted by her whimsical, nature inspired pieces. Using a blend of pure, fine silver and sterling silver, Emma creates each item of jewellery by hand, before incorporating semi-precious gemstones and Swarovski crystals. From the pendant of Guardian Angels wings to a personalised charm and birthstone necklace, her designs are eclectic and inspiring. Bee Blossom Necklace £68. emmahadleyjewellery.com

FASHION EDITOR MELISSA WOODLAND ON WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW THIS MONTH Vintageinspiration

Scarves remain the ideal way to update your look. From the softest pashminas to Hermès silks, a simply draped scarf can be used to add colour, texture and style to an ordinary outfit. Wear longer versions loosely looped around the neck or knot smaller neck scarves around the handle of your favourite handbag to take you through the seasons. 10 Corso Como Limited Edition silk scarf £195, liberty.co.uk

In the shade

As the sun is coming out a little more often, it’s worth updating your sunglasses collection with a new pair of shades. Big frames continue their reign at the top of the style charts, but colour is playing a bigger role than in previous years. Opt for tinted lenses if you dare, but if not, coloured rims are the way forward.Tiffany sunglasses £189, Sunglass Hut, White Lion Walk, Guildford.

Wish list

You’re invited!

If you worship at the altar of Valentino or see Temperley dresses in your dreams, then the words that follow are likely to delight you. So Guildford has teamed up with designer fashion website Cocosa.com to offer our readers admission to their elite online sales. Normally, access to their private sales is by invitation only (and there’s a waiting list to get on the guest list!) but we’ve got an exclusive offer that will give you instant entry to their world of designer discounts. Sign up to Cocosa using SoGuildford as the invite code and you will receive £10 off your first order of £50 or more. So, there’s nothing to stop you splurging on a Citizen of Humanity denim bargain or snapping up the latest Angie Gooderham bangle. The discount is valid until June 30 2010.

The latest must-have shoes from the doyen of fabulous footwear, Christian Louboutin, have hit the (virtual) shops. Classic leather peep-toes are elevated to covetable status by the generous polished studs and signature red soles. If only Christmas could come early. £1,125, net-a-porter.com

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Fashion Insider: THIS MONTMH EN

WE TELL YOU WHAT’S NEW…

Initial ideas

For a touch of class on your cuffs, why not commission a set of bespoke cufflinks in the shape of your initials. English Cufflinks will work with you to design a unique piece in the style or font that you choose, then make them up by hand. The process takes three to four weeks. Prices start at £310 for a sterling silver set, whilst a platinum pair could set you back as much as £2,600. englishcufflinks.com

Fresh Scent

The latest version of Chanel’s Allure Homme has hit the shelves and it’s the perfect scent for Summer. Allure Homme Blanche was created by the renowned perfumer Jacques Polge and layers spicy pepper aromas, the scent of softened leather, Sicilian lemon, bergamot and sandal wood to produce a luxurious fragrance. If you’re a fan of the original, you’ll love the woodsy masculinity of this lighter edition. Allure Homme Blanche £45 for 50ml, Boots, The Friary, Guildford.

Swim time

The beginning of June signals that it’s time to consider what you’ll be wearing on the beach. If you don’t think you’ll look as good as Daniel Craig did in his swim trunks, opt for something a little more forgiving. Bermuda shorts are a no-no unless you’re a surfer, but mid-length swim shorts in a vibrant pattern are fun and fashionable. Eclipse Spot Swimshorts, £79 Duchamp @ figleaves.com

Hats off

Keep the sun out of your eyes while you supervise the barbeque with a classic hat. Slightly reminiscent of Brideshead Revisited, this straw Trilby is the perfect accessory to finish off your Summer look. It goes with both more formal suiting for a trip to the river, and the casual day spent in the back garden. Even if you’re not a hat man, this one’s worth trying on. Straw Trilby £30, French Connection, North Street, Guildford.

On Deck

Summer footwear can be tricky for you chaps. Socks with sandals are absolutely unacceptable and unless you indulge in regular pedicure, sandals on their own aren’t really an option. Deck shoes offer the perfect compromise. Wear them with socks if you’re donning a pair of chinos and without if you’ve opted for shorts. This season they come in a full range of colours, so pick up a couple of pairs to complement your wardrobe. Boat shoes, £65, Ben Sherman @ House of Fraser, High Street, Guildford. JUNE 2010

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FA S H I O N

A new tan

Dust off your linen suit, it’s time to lighten up. Shades of cream, beige and taupe are the Summer’s must-have colours in suiting. But with linen comes the perennial shoe problem. Black is too harsh, sandals aren’t appropriate for more formal occasions. The answer lies in these dark tan Oxfords. A classic shape and a versatile colour, they’ll take you right though to the Autumn. Oxfords £295, gievesandhawkes.com Linen Suits from Moss Bros, £129, 38 High St, Guildford

Instant Heirloom

In the market for a new timepiece? This model from the recently launched 2010 Patek Philippe collection might be a wise investment. In 18ct white gold with patented Annual Calendar self-winding movement, the watch displays the day, date, month and phases of the moon, has a sweep seconds hand and 24 hour sub-dial. The watch has a padded alligator strap and 18ct white gold folding clasp. Priced at £ 25,910, it is also available in 18ct rose gold. G Collins and Sons is the exclusive Patek Philippe stockist for Guildford and the rest of the South East. gcollinsandsons.com

Stow away Whether you’ve booked your fortnight in the sun yet, or not, it’s worth checking out this striped holdall from Paul Smith. In a twist on the usual signature stripe, a tangled pattern of multi-coloured lines adorn this cotton bag. It’s the ideal size for hand luggage or a weekend city break. Holdall £240, Paul Smith at House of Fraser, High Street, Guildford.

Short story

The transition from Spring to Summer is a tricky one, trouser-wise. It’s not quite warm enough for regular shorts, but you want to get into the spirit of the season. We might just have found the perfect smart/casual short solution. These cotton pinstripes by Camoshita United Arrows feature four pockets with button detailing and a subtle pattern that goes with most shades. If you’re open to the idea of wearing shorts to work, these could be the pair to try it in. Camoshita United Arrows – Pinstripe Shorts £405, Designers at asos.com JUNE 2010

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boutiques trends FA S H I O N B O U T I Q U E S

GUILDFORD AND THE SURROUNDING AREA IS A HAVEN FOR THOSE WITH AN EYE FOR STYLE WHICH PROMPTS US TO LOOK AT SOME OF OUR HOTTEST BOUTIQUES FOR MEN AND WOMEN; WHERE THEY ARE, WHAT THEY SELL AND WHAT TRENDS THEY PREDICT FOR SUMMER

labels

Boutique: O’Keefe

Client profile: “We appeal to the discerning and fashion savvy from 20-50 something,” says Janine Dewey, CEO. “They are aware of key trends and know they can rely us to offer them an eclectic array of well known brands alongside the quirky and cool. We have an expanding loyal customer base built up over five years.”

Where:

Boutique style: “Our stores are beautifully interior designed with hand picked vintage furniture and a real urban feel. The collections are helpfully displayed in colour groups and there are designated areas for shoes, jewellery and giftware creating a clear, spacious and welcoming ambience for our customers.”

11 High Street, Esher and 39 Queen Road, Weybridge Village

Key trends for Summer: “Paris skinny jeans from MIH are the celebrity favourite and our Marilyn teeshirt collection from Andy Warhol in pink, turquoise and purple have been a huge hit. Colour is key.”

Contact: Esher 01372 460 200 Weybridge 01932 852 700 okeefefashion.com Opened: 2005

Labels to go there for: Ready to Wear Alice by Alice Temperley (launched SS10) Avoca Anthology Chipie Cool Change Day Birger et Mikkelsen Farhi Heidi Klein

Inwear and Part Two James Jeans MIH Jeans Marilyn Moore Paul Smith Pringle 1815 Pure DKNY Single Theory Toywatch Zoes Tees

Shoes and Accessories Converse French Sole Havaianas Lulu Guinness Orla Kiely Paul Smith See by Chloe Steve Madden

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Boutique: George Whitehead Client profile: “Clients are generally from the South, aged mainly 35 and upwards,” says owner Alistair Whitehead. “They tend to be professional people with an eye for contemporary fashion clothing and all the accessories to match.” Boutique style: “For over 50 years George Whitehead has been one of the few menswear retailer stockists in England for some of the top manufacturers in the world.” Key trends for Summer: “The theme this year is bright colours, with flashing light blues, maize yellow, flag red followed by radiant pinks. Contrast collars on shirts as well as decorative stitching inside jackets, linings too are colourful. Plain front trousers, two button jackets and slightly fitted shirts are order for the day.” Where:

Clovelly House, 7 Between Streets, Cobham

Contact: 01932 863 841 georgewhitehead.co.uk Opened: 1954

Labels to g o there for: Bioni, Lucian

o Barbera, C hurch’s Englis Messori, Pau h Shoes, l & Shark, To y Watch, Sch Eton, Stemar neiders, , Pal Ziteri

Boutique: Dress Client profile: “Women of all ages are welcome, especially those who are looking for highly wearable designer clothing and enjoy spending time with our friendly and experienced staff,” says Owner Paula Haynes. Boutique style: “We try to offer a little something for everyone. We sit classic designers alongside more quirky contemporary ones, but all our collections are carefully chosen to flatter and enjoy!” Key trends for Summer: “Mixing the outrageous with the elegant. Neutral tones and layers sit with bold colours and prints for a stylish summer.”

re for: Labels to go the rbaud, he + Francois Gi Sarah Pacini, Marit a Heise, Oakwood, Gabi Lauton, Sylvi ve the Queen, Butter by Nadia, Sa Maliparmi

Where:

10 Castle Street, Guildford

Contact: 01483 306103 thedressboutique.co.uk Opened: 2008

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Boutique: Bakehouse Client profile: “The Bakehouse customer likes to buy quality, classic styles with interesting and contemporary design details,” explains Manager Sarah Melesi. “She is stylish and fashionable, and with the ability to accessorise, she easily updates and changes her look to suit current trends.” Boutique style: “One of Surrey’s leading and favoured independent women’s boutiques, we’ve quickly developed a reputation for stocking an eclectic and contemporary range of labels whilst offering first class friendly service.” Key trends for Summer: “Nautical. It is a trend that translates across a wide range of ages and body shapes, as well as offering classic styles with quirky twists, that won’t date quickly.” Where:

re for: Labels to go the r, Orla Kiely,

By Malene Birge 120% Linen, Farhi, Antik Batik, n Louise Roswald, Marilyn Moore, An ko, Velvet, Pin , , Olivia Rubin Part Two, Sandwich Case, Ash, In st Ju , Humanity J Brand, Citizens of se, Olga Berg llins, Fiva, Lola Ro Unisa, Stephen Co

Boutique: Gerard Darel

2 South Street, Dorking

Contact: 01306 888866 bakehouseuk.com Opened: 2004

Client profile: “A loyal following of discerning and sophisticated customers seeking the refreshing coupling of luxury and good value,” says Manager Nohra Currie. “Indelibly feminine and modern, they are timelessly chic and tastefully modest.” Boutique style: “Guildford is the flagship store of the French designer label Gerald Darel, one can find the whole collection here. We are proud to offer a unique customer experience by a team trained in personal styling.” Key trends for Summer: “The folkwestern look is feminised with petticoats and punched leather cowboy boots; 1980s-style biker jackets and trench coats with epaulettes add a dash of impudence; and harem trousers and short suits are the new basics for the woman of adventure.”

Labels to go there for: Where:

159 High Street, Guildford

Darel, but also Mostly Gerard Antik Batik Dimension and

Contact: 01483 577 599 maboutique.co.uk Opened: September 2009

Get in touch: If you have products, boutiques, designers or thoughts you’d like to see on these pages, please call Fashion Editor Melissa Woodland on 01892 616103 or email melissa@magazinepeople.co.uk JUNE 2010

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C H I L D ’ S P L AY

Going Continental It’s never too early to introduce your little princess to the timeless elegance of French design. Gallic label Confiture bring whimsical prints, floral appliqués and bow details to their darling range of children’s wear. Your junior stylista will want to wear this cake print party dress every day. Dress £39.99, sizes two to ten years, Trotters, White Lion Walk, Guildford.

WHAT YOUR LITTLE ONES SHOULD BE WEARING, SEEING AND DOING THIS MONTH WORDS: MELISSA WOODLAND

Tin Man Most kids love robots at some point in their childhood. From remote control versions to buildyour-own kits, robots are the ultimate boy’s toy. We love this 50’s-style tin version made by the Japanese company that created them originally. This Space Evil Robot is the perfect addition to the playroom. Tin robot, £90, rume.co.uk

Cupboard love

Just Your Type It’s never too early to begin learning to read and what better place to start than with the alphabet. Whether it’s gorgeous circus font initials on baby-grows (100 per cent organic, of course) or soft, 3D lettershaped cushions, a few well-placed letters will have your little one on the fast-track to knowledge in no time. Babygrows from £14, petraboaseshop.co.uk

Inspire your child to keep their room tidy with a beautifully grown-up wardrobe. The classic Belvoir Armoire from Aspace has both hanging and adjustable shelf space, plus six drawers for bits and pieces. In a gorgeous Antique White finish, this piece of furniture will sit well in their bedroom for years to come.Belvoir Armoire £1,000, Aspace, 240 High Street, Guildford.

Ride On What child wouldn’t love their own set of wheels? Featuring high performance pneumatic tyres, ball-bearing wheels and a dual action hand break, the Kettler Nitro Extreme is a go-karting dream. Designed for older children (aged seven to twelve), it is built for both fun and performance, with a freewheel lever to ensure safe coasting. Nitro Extreme Go-kart £229.99, Enchanted Wood, 3-5 Kings Road, Shalford. JUNE 2010

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Opening times: Tue-Sat 9.30- 5.00pm Address: 157 High Street, Epsom, Surrey KT19 8EW Telephone Number 01372 722272

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Showroom at: 102 West Street Farnham Surrey GU9 7En 01252 712989 www.woodfloors-farnham.co.uk

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Tailored to

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KITCHENS

Perfection PLANNING TO CHANGE THE HEART OF YOUR HOME? WE LOOK AT THE BENEFITS OF GOING BESPOKE

Put simply, buying bespoke means that you will have the pleasure of furniture designed specifically for you, although the term itself is much abused in the kitchen industry. Some companies attach it to ranges that consist of an impressive variety of shapes, sizes and colours, but are nonetheless far from one-off designs. You do, however, get a high degree of individuality and flexibility with these systems. Most bespoke designers specialise in a particular style, so it makes sense to avoid a company renowned for its rustic ranges if you are seeking a sleek, contemporary design. The bespoke is the haute couture of the kitchen world and, as such, you should expect to pay more for the privilege. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not to say that there arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t reasonably priced options out there. The key is to make sure you work out a budget before you start and find a designer that truly understands your needs. JUNE 2 0 1 0

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Kitchen by Smallbone of Devizes

he desired look is simple but not stark. Bright laminates, wood veneers, solid hardwoods, mellow aluminium and streamlined runs of extra-wide pan drawers are all trademarks of the modern tailor-made kitchen. The best thing about bespoke, though, is that the options are limitless.

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Kitchen by Aspect

KITCHENS

The advantages of bespoke far outweigh any price premium. The problems of awkward corners, curved walls and unusual window positions can all be eliminated with the help of a good designer. One downside to bespoke is the time involved, so ask for a realistic ‘guesstimate’ from your designer, but don’t be surprised if the work takes a little longer – you’re paying for quality craftsmanship and it shouldn’t be rushed.

ron Kitchen by Cléma

In minimalist kitchens the choice of colour is crucial because, unlike traditional kitchens where accessories and fabrics enhance the palette, the contemporary kitchen acts alone. The big news in interiors is transparency. White is back, and the illusion of furniture floating in space is achieved using block colours for walls, furniture, floors and worktops. Some more adventurous designs use primary colours that make a bold statement. But if you yearn for a completely professional look, brushed stainless steel or aluminium is a good choice and is also easy to clean. In terms of materials, veneers, laminates, book-matched panels and vinyl-wrapped MDF are increasingly popular, and technological advances within adhesion and materials mean that past concerns about durability are no longer valid. Factory-applied lacquers are also recognised for their hardwearing advantages and have a shiny finish that is both easy to clean and light-reflective.

Kitchen by Woodstone

Though often equated with traditional styles, solid wood is also effective in the modern bespoke kitchen. The lighter species such as maple and birch work very well but so, conversely, do walnut and deep cherry. JUNE 2 0 1 0

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Kitchen by Woodstone

Kitchen by ClĂŠmaron

Kitchen by Woods ton

Glass is becoming more prevalent in the modern kitchen. Work surfaces and opaque glass doors with integrated lighting, brighten the whole area and add to the contemporary feel â&#x20AC;&#x201C; particularly useful in smaller rooms. People often think that modern kitchens are technically inferior to their traditional predecessors. This is simply not the case. Modern materials such as veneers and composites are rigorously tested to very high standards and are now accepted by the most well regarded designers.

pe Kitchen by As

The good news for those who harbour nostalgia for traditional craftsmanship, but want a modern design, is that bespoke is probably the best option. Many companies still use traditional methods such as mortice and tenon and dovetail joints, and they mainly work with solid wood. The clean, unhampered lines that make a contemporary kitchen, serve to highlight both craftsmanship and materials used. Consequently, the highest quality of design and furniture is paramount, which is where bespoke really comes into its own. SO

KITCHEN & INTERIORS CONTACT BOOK:

Kitchen by As pect

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Aspect Kitchens 01483 277166 www.aspectkitchens.com

DV Joinery 01342 841797 www.dvjoinery.co.uk

Claude Clemaron Bespoke Interiors 01483 201080 www.clemaron.co.uk

Woodstone Interiors 01483 205100 www.woodstone.co.uk Clive Christian 0207 8938325 www.clive.com

20/05/2010 16:41

GUILDFORD

DigiTAL AEriAL & SATELLiTE inSTALLATion

Digital aerial installation Sky service work Foreign Satellite FM/DAB Aerials SKY+ / Sky HD Freesat Extra TV Points Sky Magic Eyes Communal Systems Domestic and Commercial London & South East

Free Estimates Email:

dfbinstallations@live.co.uk www.dfbinstallations.co.uk freephone: 0800 756 6944

website:

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Classic

country retreat HERE’S A HOUSE THAT WOULD CERTAINLY MERIT A SPOT ON OUR LIST OF THE RICHEST ROADS IN TOWN. SANDYKNOWE AT COMPTON IS AN IMPOSING £2.2MILLION RURAL PROPERTY CATERING FOR THE LARGE, MODERN FAMILY. WE TAKE A LOOK INSIDE 58

WORDS: HARRIET LOUVELLE

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andyknowe certainly ticks all the right boxes. A long and bluebelllined driveway weaves through the entrance gardens and up to the front door. Tudor beams are mixed with bargate stone on the exterior walls, giving the property an element of esteem. And dotted around the six-acres of ground is a swimming pool with pool house, a tennis court and a barn-style four bay garage. Built in 1908, the property features twin front-facing gable extensions, creating an impressive façade, while the grounds of Sandyknowe back onto the land of Losely Park. Mature woodland lines the borders of the property and extensive gardens stretch into the distance – this is truly a classic Surrey country pad and one which defines the word picturesque.

Doors from the hall lead into the west wing, where a large drawing room overlooks a set of stone steps that drop down into the garden. Off the back of the drawing room is a classically-styled study, perfect for

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Entering the house you’re treated to more than enough space as well. Once through the impressive front door, you immediately find yourself in the reception hall, one of the largest areas in the house. It’s a particularly grandiose spectacle and one in which you could easily imagine greeting guests for a Summer party, or evening’s entertainment.

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that bit of escapism, or just to keep on top of work when away from the office. Further west is an airy conservatory, perfectly placed to catch the last of the evening light. Throughout the ground floor there are smatterings of oak detailing which create a traditional, homely feel. The large, classic fireplaces suit this setting perfectly and a few wellplaced wing-back chairs would certainly fit the bill for the distant colder months. Switching to the east wing and you enter what is essentially the hub of the house. At the front you’re treated to a further drawing room and nestled behind that is a modern and contemporary kitchen. With a large centre block, extensive work surfaces and plenty of room, this area would probably serve as one of the most used by any future resident. At the back of the ground floor you’ll find a utility and three further storage rooms, plus a modest wine store. However, if you feel this area isn’t large enough for your collection, there’s an ample basement below that could act as a more spacious alcohol storage facility. If you’re beginning to think that this property is big, you’d be right. In the main building alone, there are around 40 doors linking the array of bedrooms, bathrooms, drawing rooms and en suites. On the eastern side of the first floor resides the jettied master bedroom. Again, it’s generously proportioned with an en suite and its own dressing room that’s larger than a walk-in wardrobe, don’t you know. A nice feature of the large landing is the void opening onto the reception hall below. It’s a stylish touch that opens up both spaces, creating an airy atmosphere that keeps the centre of the house feeling light and spacious. Dotted around the rest of the first floor are a further six bedrooms and three shower/bathrooms. If there’s still a need to find somewhere for even more people to sleep then take a look on the second floor. Up in the rafters there are two further bedrooms, bringing the total to nine. Out in the grounds the four bay garage means there’s more than enough room for the family workhorse, a sporty convertible and perhaps even a motorbike or two. While the pool house means the kids have somewhere to dry off when hosting pool parties during the Summer. Certainly this property would cater perfectly for a large family and it’s one that wouldn’t need extending - not for the time being at least! At Sandyknowe, Compton, there’s more room than you should ever need for guests, plenty of space for you to relax and, of course, the pool and tennis courts to help keep you keep fit. All we need now then is a long hot Summer… SO

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Farley Green Guide Price £1,000,000 Set in a secluded yet sought after location in the heart of the Surrey Hills. This family home boasts four bedrooms and three reception rooms with further room to extend (STPP). In addition a detached double garage and a one bedroom detached bungalow that sits to the back of the plot that is in the region of an acre. Please contact the office for more details on 01483 533366 or email guildford@gpees.co.uk

Guildford Town Centre Guide Price £1,000,000 Built in the 1920Õ s this imposing detached family home located on an elevated prestigious private Road on Pewley Hill, within a short walk of GuildfordÕ s historic cobbled High Street, mainline station, theatres and good local schools. Other benefits are mature landscaped front and rear gardens, garage and a driveway. Please contact the office for more details on 01483 533366 or email guildford@gpees.co.uk

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Selling homes from the Capital to the Coast for over 70 years

Peaslake Guide Price £2,000,000 A Four bedroom detached family home Occupying a private and secluded plot in one of the sought after villages in the heart of the Surrey Hills. Offers flexible living accommodation and outside is four acres of land including two paddocks, stables, swimming pool, two garages and two tennis courts Please contact the office for more details on 01483 533366 or email guildford@gpees.co.uk

Peaslake Guide price £950,000 Set in a beautiful, secluded and peaceful location adjacent to Ô HurtwoodÕ in a sought after village, is this four bedroom detached period cottage with later additions and stunning gardens. The accommodation is light, airy with character features throughout. Outside is a plot of approximately 3rd of acre, there is also roof terrace, two hand crafted traditionally oak framed barn style & garages & off street parking. Further extension is possible subject to the usual planning permission. Please contact the office for more details on 01483 533366 or email guildford@gpees.co.uk

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Offers invited fOr

fantasy island

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FA N TA SY i S l A N d

words richard Moore

WiTh ThE loNg, lANgUid dAYS oF SUmmEr loomiNg YoU’rE probAblY ThiNkiNg iT’S AboUT TimE YoU FiNAllY boUghT ThAT iSlANd pArAdiSE YoU’vE AlWAYS TAlkEd AboUT. WE, ThoUgh, cAN hElp mAkE ThE TASk EASiEr

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“AS viewS From A Shower go, ThiS oNe oN Buck iSlANd iN The cAriBBeAN hAS To Be AmoNg The BeST iN The world.”

JuNe 2010

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unching with our friends at Knight Frank the other day, the conversation drifted onto the question of holidays and where to take them.

Turns out there’s this wonderful little island now on the market that would be just perfect for the whole family. And it could be yours for around £33million. Few places in the world can realistically be described as pure luxury; Buck island in the British Virgin islands is one of them. it has to be rated among the most beautiful of the Caribbean’s private island estates. located just off the southeast coast of Tortola, Buck island comprises 43 acres of tropical beauty surrounded by picturesque ocean views. The main residence has been built at the south east point in a truly dramatic cliff top location. it’s been designed to create a village effect with a number of separate buildings that centre on the Great House itself. These buildings house a whole host of both formal and informal lounging and dining areas all serviced by a rather large, yet charming, kitchen. And no matter how many relations and friends track you down, there’s plenty of places for them to sleep. The main residence alone has a two storey master bedroom cottage, five guest bedroom suites and a self-contained one bedroom apartment. Amenities include computer and reading rooms, a TV room, conference room, gym, and, of course, offices for your staff. The island is blessed with a spectacular white sand beach and turquoise waters which are great for swimming and snorkelling. Beach facilities include a barbeque beach house with an outside dining area and adjacent water sports building. The kids just couldn’t wish for anything more!

Buck island is just a short boat ride away from its mainland base on Tortola which includes beach frontage and two docks serving a threebedroom residence with gate house all on over an acre of land. Now, a property of this kind rarely comes onto the market, so a word of advice… don’t hang around!

For more information contact: Georgina Richards 0207 861 1060 knightfrank.co.uk

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THE SEASCAPE GALLERY

On this page: Colin Carruthers, Evening Light After A Still Day, 40x90cm, Oil on canvas £1,500 Donald McIntyre, Cottages and Reeds, 35x43cm, Oil on board £3,650 Robert Newton, Eshott Hill, Bright Sun, 60x70cm, Oil on canvas £2,600 David Atkins, Early Spring Came Valley, Dorset, 66x76cm, Oil on board £3,200 Paul Robinson, Winnie Liked To Read, 20x30cm, Oil on board £795

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GALLERY

On this page: Marie Mills, Loveliness, 100 x 100cm, Oil on canvas £1,175 Simeon Stafford, Northern Chippy, 51 x 76cm, Oil on canvas £3,500 Sarah Spackman, Hellebore, 35 x 40cm, Oil on linen £750 David Atkins, The Sea at Charmouth, 76 x 80cm, Oil on board £3,500 All works featured can be viewed at Seascape Gallery, 117 High Street, Godalming GU7 1AQ. 01483 860 591 seascapegallery.co.uk

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Art

ART

OUR ROUND UP OF SOME OF THE BEST NEW STAGE AND THEATRE SHOWS TAKING PLACE IN SURREY AND THE CAPITAL THIS MONTH

Mirrors

PROPERTY

EXCEPTIONAL AUCTION RESULTS FOR CONTEMPORARY ART OFFER INTERESTING PARALLELS WITH OUR PRIME PROPERTY MARKET. ANDREW SHIRLEY INVESTIGATES

n September 15, 2008, in the midst of the banking crisis, the London auction house Sotheby’s raises £110m with its Beautiful Inside My Head sale of works by the UK’s Damien Hirst. To many this is the final defiant stand of an over-heated contemporary art market that will not be repeated for many years. Fast forward just 18 months to February 3, 2010, when the global economy is recovering, but hardly in rude health. Walking Man I, a bronze by Swiss sculptor Alberto Giacometti, beats the previous record for a single work – Picasso’s 1906 portrait Boy with a Pipe – when it is sold by Sotheby’s to an anonymous buyer for an astonishing £65m, four times its high estimate.

The Giacometti sale is not alone in achieving stellar prices. In November, 2009, 12 bidders push Andy Warhol’s early Pop painting 200 One Dollar Bills past its $8-$12m estimate to almost $44m. Over a similar timescale, prime property in London, driven by a shortage of stock and a surge in interest from overseas buyers, increases in value by 15% from its credit-crunch nadir. Jonathan Binstock, an expert on contemporary art at Citi Private Bank’s art advisory service, says similar drivers are at play in the art world. “Volumes are down very dramatically. There hasn’t been an overwhelming number of forced sellers, and people who don’t have to sell aren’t.” Auction houses are also being very conservative about what they sell and how they set their pre-sale estimates to help encourage competitive bidding, he adds.

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What has really helped sustain the contemporary market, however, is the globalisation of demand on the back of rapid wealth creation in developing nations, Binstock emphasises: “Buyers are not just coming from the UK and US.”

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According to Oliver Barker, senior director of contemporary art at Sotheby’s, the art market is more international than ever before. “Buyers of lots that sold for over $1m came from 27 countries in 2004. In 2008-09 this doubled to 54 countries.” The same pattern has been seen for prime London property. In 2007 Knight Frank sold houses to 33 nationalities. Last year it was 49. “Art follows commerce, “ says Peter Boris, executive vice president of leading New York-based gallery Pace Wildenstein. “Without doubt, artists from the world’s new economies will play an increasingly important role in the history of art. “New art-making centres are springing up around the world. It is happening in China and India, but also Latin America, Africa and the Middle East.” Leng Lin, president of Pace’s Beijing gallery, says more Chinese collectors are now paying attention to contemporary art. “The number is small comparatively, but they are beginning to play a more important role. More attention is paid to local artists, but Chinese collectors are never narrow-minded as the country itself has been deeply involved in globalisation. “There are more and more good artists, but during the past decades wealth has grown at an even higher speed in China and, as a result, the money overflowing from the local art market will go into the international market.” Another parallel between art and property markets playing out now, in contrast to the frenzied, and some might say undiscerning buying frenzy witnessed in both sectors at the height of the boom, is the focus on quality. “Masterpieces and works that rarely enter the market are aggressively sought after,” says Peter Boris. Extremely wealthy art collectors are prepared to pay top prices, but only for the very best works from top-drawer artists, confirms Jonathan Binstock. “This approach is much more reminiscent of the purchase of a primary residential property. People are not buying on spec or looking for the next hot artist.” Leng Lin, who has played a key role in the development of Chinese contemporary art as a dealer, curator, critic and artist, says that contemporary art is no longer being judged purely by its financial value since the economic crisis. “The art that emphasises humanity and spirituality, the work that shows a connection and awareness of history is most valued. The more conservative artists, those who have a direct hand in the art-making process, have performed better.

“The new trend will be opposing making art entertaining or fashionable. It will be focusing more on purified forms.” Extrapolating this trend to property markets may be stretching the parallels too far, but the similarities and lessons from the past are clear. Art or property of the very highest quality will always be attractive to the discerning buyer, but speculate at your peril. SO

Artists to watch

Jonathan Binstock says: Luc Tuymans George Condo El Anatsui Peter Boris says: Stirling Ruby Li Songsong Sudarshan Shetty

Leng Lin says: Hai Bo Yin Xiuzhen Wang Guangle Oliver Barker says: Chris Ofili Urs Fischer First published in the Wealth Report 2010 produced by Citi Private Bank and Knight Frank. Andrew Shirley is Editor of the Wealth Report

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Italian’s JOB PROFILE

THE

FOR ALMOST A QUARTER OF A CENTURY RESTAURANTEUR CARLO CROSTA HAS BEEN DELIGHTING CUSTOMERS WITH HIS ITALIAN DISHES. WE WENT ALONG TO ONE OF GUILDFORD’S BEST-LOVED EATERIES TO TALK TO THE MAN HIMSELF

arlo’s Trattoria is tucked away in Shere Road at Newlands Corner and is on the site of what was once a truck stop café. As we enter we’re greeted by the 60-year-old who’s a selfproclaimed ‘local institution’, which is a fair comment considering his restaurant was voted by customers as one of the best places to eat in town. Tell us, how did Carlo’s Trattoria come about? I bought the place in 1986, when it was just a shack, a tiny transport café that was about a quarter of the size it is now. Within a month of taking it over we were opening in the evenings and business was picking up. Then we stopped the teas and coffees and just focused on the food. In 1990 we rebuilt the whole place; we had to really because in the old days we only had an outside toilet, which became a bit of a joke. How did you end up in Guildford? It was in 1968 that I first came to England after finishing college in Italy, but I had to go back and do national service. I finally moved over here in 1972, and tried to start up a nightclub in London which didn’t work. Then I moved to Guildford and saw the potential of the site where the restaurant now is. After 24 years, I’m a bit of a local institution - I’ll probably be buried in the car park! What’s made you such a success? With us, it’s all about the food. I go to the market myself when I can, we get all our fresh fish up from Billingsgate and my meat comes from Smithfield market. We use fresh vegetables and serve good food at honest prices. It’s not nouvelle cuisine and we don’t spend hours on how the food looks; what you

WORDS DAN SMITH

see is what you get. Our food is well-presented, but it’s more about the taste. And after 24 years, I know we must be doing something right. Do you have a favourite main course that you serve? I love fish and love to go fishing when I can, when time permits and the restaurant permits. This time of year is good for fresh plaice and sea bream and as fresh fish doesn’t need a complicated dish, I’d go for something simple. Maybe I’d fry some fresh plaice in black butter, add some white wine and then capers and lemon juice. Delicious. Do you have a signature dish? We have so many! There are certain favourites on our board of specials that I’ve never taken off in all these years. We have a new menu that’s coming out very soon but there are some dishes, like Carlo’s King Prawns, that we’ll never get rid of. They’re butter fried king prawns with a mariniere sauce of garlic and tabasco. Also our leg of lamb, which is a casserole with garlic and red wine, is very popular. So are our fresh pastas; we have five different types of home made ravioli, plus handmade gnocci, lasagne, risotto and lots more. And these all helped win you an award? Perhaps, yes. We won the Guildford Life with Style award from the Borough Council. This was after the public put us forward as one of their favourite places to eat. There are so many people who come back over and over again, and have done for years, because they know that when you come to us you get some of the best homemade food in the area – even our desserts are made on site. carlostrattoria.com

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Guiding

light

IT’S BILLED AS “SURREY’S FINEST MICHELIN STARRED RESTAURANT.” BUT DOES DRAKE’S REALLY LIVE UP TO ALL THE HYPE? WE SENT OUR RESIDENT FOODIE DAMIAN COTTON ALONG TO FIND OUT

any factors influence a perfect restaurant visit. Of course, the food is important – for some of us, as gourmands, it is paramount – but ambience, décor and most of all, the myriad forms of service influence ones’ experience of a meal.

Drake’s at the Clocktower in Ripley has managed to tick all the boxes for the Michelin guide inspectors, so it seemed the right place to go for a special meal. The restaurant is located in a most attractive building on the main street of this pleasant village. After a friendly greeting from Laurent, the restaurant manager, a seat in the walled garden beckons, while the menu is examined. It’s a lovely spot, especially in the spring sunshine, and the garden has been planted for fragrance as much as flowers. It would be tempting to sit here all day, especially when the canapés arrive – rich chicken liver parfait complemented with crisp apple, and melting, savoury, shortbreads of onion and blue cheese sprinkled with sesame seeds. However, having perused the carte, the move inside is eager

enough. The tasting menu beckons. Inside, it’s simple and cleanly decorated, perhaps a little bit too beige, but with excellent natural light, rag rolled walls and exposed beams and wood shutters. It’s an environment in which to be comfortable and relaxed while dining without distracting “features”. Despite the deliberate avoidance of a dress code for the customers, the staff members are formally attired and genuine professionals – not jobbing actors between roles or gap year people. Hot bread is brought – a spiral of black olive brioche and a stunning cumin and sea salt brown crusty roll – the best thing made of flour I have ever experienced. My enthusiasm is detected and plate refilled. Good (Charentes, one believes) butter, too. Bread is such a little part of the meal, but so important to get right. Post-bread amuse bouche is an espresso cup of pea and ginger soup with a cep foam. Wonderfully fresh and lively, just enough ginger to accentuate the pea flavour and the earthy fungi in an airy form tops it off really well. Fully flavoured, complex and balanced, it sets the bar high for the ensuing repast.

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And all working together to produce a great dish – elegantly presented, but not fussily so, and matched with a glass of Jurancon, a light dessert wine made in the Atlantic Pyrenees from the Petit Manseng grape, with a grapey sweetness, pineapple and mango notes, high acidity and a mineral and petrol finish. This brings up another vital point in the elements that make up a great restaurant. Wine. Intimidating for many, especially in finer establishments where even the relatively knowledgeable are outmatched by astoundingly expensive lists and snooty, arrogant wine waiters. Not so at Drake’s. Sommelier Eddy is a remarkable gentleman – he loves wine so much that he has left his native Champagne region to share his abiding passion, and vast wine wisdom, with we fortunate Britons. He is open, informative (rarely have I learnt so much in one lunchtime) and friendly, and best of all, has a near superhuman ability to match wines to the challenging flavours of Steve Drake’s dishes.

interact just enough to make the diner feel wanted and involved. Classic wine is poured – a structured and subtle Montagny premier cru – and I am indulged with a discussion on barrel aging and types of oak used for cooperage. And then another stunning dish. Sea bass, perfectly cooked, with deconstructed piccalilli – lightly brined cauliflower and cucumber with a rarefied mustardy sauce, and some tiny discs of crisp chorizo. Against all expectations, the piccalilli is so delicate and artful that the flavours don’t overwhelm the fish – a dish that exhibits masterful technique and judgement. The loos, by the way, are superb – your Mum would be ecstatic with them – spotless, elegant, and with classy toiletries and plenty of fresh towels. There are enough well-lit mirrors to maintain ones appearance, including a full length version on the landing. On the way back, I admire the understated and elegant flower arrangements and sneak a look at the cheese station – a goodly selection of French and British cheeses, at the peak of ripeness and the correct temperature, and

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First course proper is duck foie gras “exotic”, a neat, seared chunk of rich liver and the “exotic” comprising paper thin dried pineapple wafers, peppered chunks of the same fruit, a coconut foam, streaks of passion fruit, and a sprinkle of unrefined cocoa nibs.

And he has built a list that is both accessible and has a price point for every pocket. Many people have sold me wine over the years, but none have charmed and impressed as much as Eddy. Scallops next: large, very fresh and very sweet, balanced by robust earthy cep mushrooms, and partnered by a rich nugget of braised pigs cheek and a saffron and mango sauce. The sauce is just there, not spooned and dragged to make a pretty shape, and all the better for it. A small glass of Viognier from Gard has a steel that cuts the sweetness of the food, a palate of apricot and green apple, and a long finish. And then rabbit wrapped in prosciutto with carrots and trompettes mushrooms. (This dish should possibly be named after Mr McGregor). Carrots of many kinds – just done baby carrots, pureed carrots and a carrot cannelloni – tarragon cream wrapped in a carrot skin. Delicious and surprisingly unadulterated – no gelling agents or gums, just carrots and a pinch of sugar. Brilliant idea, superb and tasty execution, and backed with a herby, pale Chinon rose, made of 100% Cabernet Franc. As well as the magnificent Eddy and sublime Laurent, the rest of the team more than merit a mention. Integral to our dining experience, they are skilled and well trained, and they really do seem to be enjoying their work. Some Michelin starred restaurants can be pompous and funereal, but these good people smile and care, and

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covered with linen so that the aroma doesn’t distract. The grand finale of the savoury courses arrives – tender and gamey, lightly peppered loin of venison with a tangy red cabbage ketchup, smooth Jerusalem artichoke puree, a merest sprinkle of chocolate and a miraculous cromesquis - a tiny fritter of bone marrow that is a distillation of unctuousness in a perfect crisp crumb. This comes with a glass of New Zealand Trinity Hill – a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc with a touch of Syrah that drinks like a fresher, slightly spicier claret and highlights the venison and the chocolate beautifully. Mr. Drake treats me to a double dessert as I’ve asked about his techniques. The first part, with a superb glass of Château Filhot (second only to Yquem) is a plateful of fraise des bois, the tiny wild strawberries that are as far above everyday Elsanta as the sauternes wine is above Bristol Cream. They are enhanced by nuggets of balsamic jelly and marshmallow, and a subtle lemon thyme duet of sorbet and cream – a magical combination that has a balance of sweet and savoury, hot and cold that delights the palate. The second dish that had excited my curiosity, is a raviolo made of pure fruit – juicy raspberries in a “pasta” of paper thin pineapple with a white pepper ice cream. It is extraordinary – I love every mouthful, even after several other outstanding dishes. Eddy triumphs again with a Cabidos - coming full circle, a Petit Manseng again – this time from the Atlantic Pyrenees, and with the richness to handle the pepper ice cream, and fruit to match the pineapple. Just when you think it couldn’t get better, a perfect espresso and the best petit fours, including a mango and mint jelly, a fashionable pistachio macaroon and lavender shortbread. They are decidedly superior to any I’ve had at, say, Gordon Ramsay’s establishments, and he trained as a patissier. So, Drake’s of Ripley. The finest Michelin starred restaurant in Surrey? I’d say one of the finest in the country. Unpretentious, friendly, classy and enormously enjoyable. A magnificent front of house team, pleasant surroundings, and unfussy service of high standards. And the food, oh the food. Steve Drake (right) is highly gifted – his pride in his technical mastery is evident, but his innate ability to combine and develop flavour is quite remarkable. And unusually for such an establishment nowadays, he was cooking throughout the lunch service, as is his habit, and that is why Drake’s has the edge over anywhere else in its class. SO • Set Lunch £25 including a glass of wine • Tasting menu £60 for 6 courses • Wine by the glass from £5.50 • Wine by the bottle from £17 Drake’s Restaurant, The Clocktower, Ripley, Surrey, GU23 6AQ. 01483 224777

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GOURMET GUIDE

Gourmet Guide

So Guildford

Our handpicked selection of some of the best tables in town L’Aroma 16 High Street, Woking GU21 6BW 01483 770 742 Cuisine: Italian

Mandarin Restaurant 13 Epsom Road, Guildford GU1 3JT 01483 572 293 Cuisine: Chinese

The Rose Valley 50-52 Chertsey Street, Guildford GU1 4HD 01483 572 572 Cuisine: Indian

Son of Sombrero 52a Chertsey Street, Guildford GU1 4HD 01483 453 434 Cuisine: Mexican

Asiana Indian Restaurant 114 Hermitage Road, St Johns, Woking, GU21 8TT 01483 488 122 Cuisine: Indian Toby Cottage Restaurant High Street, Ripley, GU23 6AF 01483 224 225 Cuisine: English

The Thai Terrace Sydenham Road, Guilford GU1 3RQ 01483 503 350 Cuisine: Thai Drake’s Restaurant The Clock House, High Street, Ripley, GU23 6AQ 01483 224 777 Cuisine: European/ Modern European

The Albany Pub & Dining Room 80 Sydenham Road, Guildford GU1 3SA 01483 572 410 Cuisine: British m. Brassiere and Bar 36 – 40 London Road, Guildford GU21 2AE 01483 303 030 Cuisine: Modern European Bel and the Dragon Bridge Street, Godalming, GU7 3DU 01483 527 333 Cuisine: British Laluna 10 Wharf Street, Godalming, GU7 1NN 01483 414 155 Cuisine: Modern Italian

Giraffe 215-217 High Street, Guilford GU1 3BH 01483 300 277 Cuisine: Modern Eclectic

Auberge 274 High Street, Guildford GU1 3JC 01483 506 202 Cuisine: French

Carlos Trattoria Newlands Corner, Guildford GU4 8SE 01483 224 180 Cuisine: Italian

Jamie’s Italian 13 Friary Street, Guildford GU1 4EH 01483 600 920 Cuisine: Italian

Loch Fyne Centenary Hall, Chapel Street, Guildford GU1 3OH 01423 230 550 Cuisine: Sea Food

CÔTE Bistro 35 Castle St, Guildford GU1 3UQ 01483 579714 Cuisine: 01483 579 714 Cuisine: French

Ha! Ha! Bar and Grill 16-17 North Street, Guildford GU1 4AF 01483 573 534 Cuisine: European

Cambio Restaurant 2-4 Sooth Hill, Guildford GU1 3SY 01483 577 702 Cuisine: Italian

Olivio 53 Quarry St, Guildford GU1 3UA 01483 303 535 Cuisine: Italian

Happy Eating! To discuss your restaurant appearing in the gourmet guide, or if you would like to suggest one, please call 01892 616103. JUNE 2010

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RU BY WA X

WHEN COMEDIAN RUBY WAX WAS IN GUILDFORD THE OTHER DAY WE POPPED INTO HER DRESSING ROOM AT THE YVONNE ARNAUD THEATRE FOR A BIT OF

s e x a w y b u R

lyrical WORDS DAN SMITH

er name alone brings to mind an era of comedy that was loud, outrageous and even bordering on the aggressive. She had it all; a great career and dream house complete with husband and kids.

But it was when she painted the house beige for the 47th time people thought she might be losing it. The solution was to send her to the Priory, the private rehab clinic, where the seeds of her new show were sewn. Tell us about the show which just happens to be called Losing It: It started out as Live from the Priory [performed exclusively for patients at the clinics] but now it’s evolved into a show for the public and isn’t really about mental illness in any way. The idea is that a lot of us don’t really know how to run our lives because there isn’t an instruction manual. So I try to explain what’s missing in the manual, what I missed in the manual and what the manual actually is. It’s a very dark comedy. But it’s funny; the comedy is definitely in there. With the show, do you reveal the real Ruby, rather than the stage persona? I think on stage I’m playing the persona. But I’m not playing someone who’s not real. I mean, what’s real? This show might be one of the most honest comedies you’ll ever see, and honest means real. But I also know I have to be funny, because that’s what people are paying for. It’s a new type of comedy and I haven’t really done it before. Do you consider yourself to be a Brit now, or still an American abroad? I never really consider myself to be one way or the other. And that might be liberating or insane. I just am. I’ve paid enough

in British taxes so I think I deserve to be an honorary citizen. Your famous for the Ruby Wax Meets interviews, with your ‘outrageous style’, but who would you still most like to interview? Probably Obama. I mean, why wouldn’t you want to interview President Obama? But you know I don’t really act the same with every person. I never really try to push the boundaries; I wouldn’t want to push him, I’m just curious. Anyone in power would be interesting, but interviewing politicians is usually a bit of a waste of time as they’re so astute and they rarely give you what they’re actually thinking. One of the standout episodes was where you interviewed Goldie Hawn and you ended up in her hot tub together… And we’re still friends after all these years. It usually works in my favour, as an interviewer, if I like someone. Tom Hanks was the most fun, or perhaps Jim Carey. Jim tried pulling the tablecloth out from under the tea and… all the food fell off. It didn’t work at all. I was expecting him to have something up his sleeve and for it to work, but it didn’t. Who else makes you laugh? Who makes me laugh? Um, Jennifer Saunders always will. That movie The Hangover was funny. I don’t find that many individuals particularly funny, because they often just repeat old jokes or scenarios you’ve already noticed. So I’ve tried to make a show where what I’m talking about is something you didn’t think of before, rather than just a twist on something you’ve thought of and me making it a little bit more bizarre. I’m trying to push the limits out a little bit more, or maybe a lot more.” SO JUNE 2010

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SUBSCRIBE AND ENSURE YOU RECEIVE SO GUILDFORD MAGAZINE EVERY MONTH.

SUBSCRIBE TO 6 ISSUES FOR JUST £6, SAVING 35% OFF THE COVER PRICE AND HAVE YOUR NEW FAVOURITE LOCAL MAGAZINE DELIVERED DIRECT TO YOUR DOOR. Simply complete the form below, log on to www.soguildford.co.uk or call 01892 616103 to subscribe.

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Stage

T H E AT R E S

OUR ROUND UP OF SOME OF THE BEST NEW STAGE AND THEATRE SHOWS TAKING PLACE IN SURREY AND THE CAPITAL THIS MONTH

All My Sons

What? Acknowledged as Arthur Miller’s first great success, All My Sons is a compelling story of forbidden love, loyalty, guilt and the corrupting power of greed. Starring David Suchet and Zoë Wanamaker, directed by Howard Davies Where? The Apollo Theatre, London When? From now until Saturday September 11 Web? amswestend.com

The Perfect Wife What? After seven years of marriage Lizzie realised she had turned into a bitch wife from hell, until she discovered how to be happy with an imperfect man and ultimately, give up the notion of the perfect man and become the perfect wife. Where? The Mill Studio at Yvonne Arnaud’s Theatre, Guildford When? Friday June 18 - one performance only. Web? yvonne-arnaud.co.uk

The T pes t As Yoeum Like Itand

What? Two of Shakespea Built in 1908, the property features twin front-facing re’s bes t loved com edies, direc gable extensions, creating an impressive façade, ted by Sam Mendes and witonto while the grounds of Sandyknowe back land h anthe all-st ar transatlan tic linthe e-up of Losely Park. Mature woodland lines borders includinofg M ichelle Beck, Cinto hristthe the property and extensive gardens stretch ian Camarg o, n Cephas distance – this is truly a classic SurreyRo country pad Joand nes, Stephen Dillane, Alvin one which defines the word picturesque. Epstein, Julie t Rylance and Thomas Sad oski Where? Th eenough Old Vic, Lon Entering the house you’re treated toWmore don hen? than From Saturd space as well. Once through the impressive front 12 to Saturd door, ay June ay you immediately find yourself in theWreception hall,August 21 eb? oldvict heatre.com one of the largest areas in the house. It’s a particularly grandiose spectacle and one in which you could

Sucker Punch easily imagine greeting guests for a summer party,

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or friends evening’s What? Two former areentertainment. about to step into the ring and face up to who they are. Sucker Punch is a look back at what it was like to be young and black in the 80s, asking if the the right battles havethe been fought, alone Doors from hall lead into west wing, let where a won. Where? The Jerwood The overlooks Royal Court, London largeTheatre drawingat room a set of stone steps When? Friday June 11 drop to Saturday Julythe 24garden. Off the back of the that down into Web? royalcourttheatre.com JUNE 2 0 1 0

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The Love Nest

The Baker’s Wife What? A small Parisian town is delighted with the bread baked by a newly arrived baker and his beautiful wife. However, when his wife has an affair with a handsome young gigolo, the baker loses his will to bake and the community is thrown into disarray. Where? The Electric Theatre, Guildford When? From Wednesday June 2 to Saturday June 5 Web? electrictheatre.co.uk

Quartet What? Retired opera singers Cissy, Reggie and Wilfred are excited about performing a concert until their tranquil world is unexpectedly interrupted by the arrival of legendary Diva, Jean Horton. Old rivalries resurface and past secrets are revealed. Where? The Main Stage at Yvonne Arnaud’s Theatre, Guildford When? Wednesday June 16 to Saturday June 26 Web? yvonne-arnaud.co.uk

Everything Must Go or The Voluntary Attempt to Overcome Unnecessary Obstacles What? An amazing one woman tribute to Kristin Fredricksson’s late father, expressed through the mediums of acting, cine-film, puppetry and even hurdling. Everything Must Go is a quite incredible meditation of love, loss, memory and play. Where? West End Centre, Aldershot When? Wednesday June 30 - one performance only. Web? ents24.com

What? David and Janet Thompson were in love when they married 25 years ago that was until Janet’s mother moved in. In a doomed last attempt to save their marriage, the couple return to where they spent their honeymoon… along with Janet’s mother. Where? The Rhoda McGaw Theatre at the New Victoria, Woking When? Wednesday June 23 to Saturday June 26 Web? ambassadortickets.com/woking

Billy Elliot The Musical What? Local theatre training company Songtime Theatre Arts presents a specially scripted version of Billy Elliot: The Musical. This production has been created for children of all ages and is performed by the Surrey-based local youth group. Where? New Victoria Theatre, Woking When? Wednesday June 16 to Saturday June 19 Web? ambassadortickets.com/woking

Welcome to Thebes What? Set in the present day, but inspired by ancient myth Welcome to Thebes offers a passionate exploration of an encounter between the world’s richest and poorest countries, set in the aftermath of a brutal war. Where? The Olivier Theatre at the National Theatre, London When? From Tuesday June 22 to Wednesday August 18 Web? nationaltheatre.org.uk

Through a Glass Darkly What? Ingmar Bergman’s Through a Glass Darkly follows Karin, a young wife whose perception of different realities blur and shift. On a family holiday, events spiral out of control as her husband, father and brother fight over the best way to help her. Where? Almeida Theatre, London When? Thursday June 10 to Saturday July 31 Web? almeida.co.uk

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MOTORS

Bugatti

The bigger, better, THE MAGNIFICENT BUGATTI GALIBIER 16C IS SET TO HIT OUR ROADS WITHIN THE NEXT THREE YEARS WITH A PRICE TAG OF CLOSE TO £1 MILLION. WILL THE REBORN BUGATTI BRAND EVER CEASE TO AMAZE US?

n 1909 Bugatti was founded in Molsheim, France, by an eccentric Italian genius named Ettore Bugatti. From the start the company manufactured high performance automobiles with Ettore’s initials ‘EB’ proudly presented on the car’s badges.

The company became legendary for producing some of the most exclusive cars in the world, as well as some of the fastest. But despite the momentum of the business, with the coming of World War II the Bugatti brand faltered, along with many high-end producers of the time.

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Bugatti struggled financially and released one last model in the 1950s, before being purchased for its airplane parts business in the 1960s. Today the name is owned by the Volkswagen Group who, with the release of the incredible Veyron, have revived the brand.

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MOTORS

Building on the Veyron’s success, the Galibier 16C would make even old Ettore proud. Appropriately enough, the Galibier 16C was given a preview in the Company’s motherland of Molshiem. To call it striking might be a bit of an understatement; it has a big, heavy road presence, even in photographs.

three seconds and a potential top speed of some 240mph. Thankfully, four-wheel drive plus specially developed ceramic brakes and a new suspension design will enable agile, reassuring handling and stopping power for a saloon of this size.

Bugatti says the saloon is set to be “the most exclusive, elegant, and powerful four-door automobile in the world,” which by the looks of it, is a hard statement to argue with.

The interior reflects the elemental design of the exterior and is inspired by the 1920s era. The dashboard has been reduced to the essential; two centrally located main instruments keep even the rear passengers constantly informed of the current speed and previous performance.

The body is constructed of handmade carbon fibre parts, coloured dark blue, so that when illuminated the woven structure strikingly shimmers through. Carbon fibre not only possesses exceptional rigidity but is also especially light.

Parmigiani, the Swiss maker of fine watches, created a removable tourbillon clock for the Galibier, which may be worn on the wrist thanks to a cleverly designed leather strap. So even when you’re not in your Bugatti, everyone will know you own one.

‘the Galibier 16C would make even old ettore proud’

When the Company held its centenary celebrations and unveiled the Galibier to the biggest gathering of Bugatti owners ever assembled in one place, it apparently went down a storm. According to Sales Director, Alisdair Stewart, there was much enthusiasm for the Galibier with some people offering to put down deposits there and then.

Focusing on keeping weight at a minimum has meant that the Galibier should overcome the challenge of uniting sporting prowess with the comfort and elegance of a modern four-door saloon. The basic architecture picks up on the torpedo-like character of the ’20s Bugatti Type 35 – which was already revived in the Veyron – and re-interprets it.

And there’s good reason to be eager. Once the production line starts to roll in 2013 it’ll produce a limited 300 vehicles, so best get your order in quick. You will, though, have those three years to save up for the price tag of…£900,000. Not much change out of £1 million then, once you’ve added a few extras. SO

With the typical Bugatti radiator grille, unusual round LED headlights and the clamshell body running the length of the vehicle, this car transports the traditional Bugatti genes into the modern world. Beneath the bonnet, which folds back from both sides, resides a whopping 16-cylinder, 8-litre engine with twostage supercharging. What makes it so special is that it was developed as a ‘flex-fuel’ engine that can optionally be run on ethanol. Not bad eh! Early estimates hint at phenomenal performance, with a 0-60 time of around JUNE 2 0 1 0

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GUILDFORD

Secret Guildford

WORDS DAN SMITH

Gold Fingers

EACH MONTH WE DELVE INTO THE GUILDFORD ARCHIVES TO BRING YOU TALES FROM OUR ILLUSTRIOUS PAST. THIS TIME ROUND WE MEET THE MAN WHO MADE ‘GOLD’ BUT WHEN CHALLENGED, KILLED HIMSELF

oday the practice of alchemy is generally considered to be something of a waste of time; rather outlandish and foolish. It was, however, the precursor to modern chemistry and up until the 16th Century was considered a respectable scientific school of thought. Even Isaac Newton (pictured) devoted a great deal of time to its study, writing more on alchemy than he ever did on physics or optics. But by the time chemistry had come of age in the late 18th Century, alchemy had lost a great deal of credibility and was rarely practiced. That was until a Guildford doctor by the name of James Price shot to semi-celebrity status in 1792, upon claiming he could turn mercury into silver and gold. Born in London in 1752 as James Higginbotham, Price changed his name on benefiting from the legacy of a deceased relative. He went on to receive an excellent education at Oxford University and showed immense talent; becoming a Master of Arts at the age of 25, a Doctor of Medicine the following year and a Member of the Royal Society at 29. In the years following his education Price moved to Guildford where he set up a laboratory and spent months working on the transmutation of metals. In May 1792 he showed a small group of friends his apparent success in creating both silver and gold.

Things appeared to be going well for Price. His Fellows of the Royal Society were, however, less than convinced. His peers asked Price to repeat the experiments with Members of the Society present. He though, seemed reluctant to do so, claiming he had run out of his powders and that making more was both expensive and detrimental to his health. The Fellows persisted, highlighting that a hoax claim called into question the entire Society’s reputation. Eventually, after arguing that his own reputation should be enough to vouch for the authenticity of his claims, Price conceded and agreed to stage the further experiments. He returned to his laboratory in Guildford in January of 1783, but instead of creating more of his seemingly magical powders, Price distilled laurel water, which contains hydrocyanic acid. He also prepared his will before travelling to London to meet his fate. The much-awaited demonstration was poorly attended, despite the initial popularity of the experiments, and only three Society members were present on August 3, 1783. Price welcomed the gentlemen, gave a brief speech and then drank the laurel water contents of his flask. The Society members each noticed an immediate change in the alchemist, although before they could react he was dead.

Price claimed that by mixing small amounts of borax and nitre with large quantities of mercury and a red or white power of his own concoction, he could create these precious metals. Mixing the red powder in a crucible produced gold and the white powder, silver.

No-one knows why Doctor James Price chose to lie about his claims or why he chose to go all the way to London when his only intention was to commit suicide. Maybe the drama of the moment held an appeal?

In a number of public experiments he reproduced his findings and eventually presented George III with some of his ‘gold’.

Whatever his motives, it’s just one of the interesting tales tucked away in our local archives... SO

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