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GUILDFORD
SO G UIL D FO R D
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YOU R
NEW
LIFE MAG STYLE AZIN E
T HE EXC LUSI VE M AGA Z I NE FO R A N EXC LUS IV E TOWN
LEONARDO DICAPRIO
ON BECOMING A DREAM MAN
THE GREAT R8 AUDI GOES TOPLESS IN SUPERB STYLE
FASHION FRILLS
THE ART OF ACCESSORISING
COUNTRY LIFE
INSIDE A TRULY IDYLLIC SHERE FARMHOUSE
SMART SURREY
WHERE THE CLEVER MONEY IS BEING INVESTED
AUGUST 2010 £1.50 WWW.SOGUILDFORD.CO.UK
ISS UE 3
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Hello... Investing is our focus this month. From deciding how to make your money work harder, to investing time in revamping your fashion style and then splashing out on your playboy image with a multimillion pound motor yacht. We have a few suggestions for you on all those fronts. Thought money didn’t grow on trees? We didn’t either until we investigated a few alternatives to stocks and shares. You might be surprised with the advice from our experts on everything from woodland to whisky. If you decide you’d rather spend than save, check out the £17million luxury yacht that comes complete with its own supercar and on-board garage, or take a test drive in the stunning new convertible Audi R8. If you prefer two wheels there’s the £100,000 bike to make all Harley riders jealous. Still have some money in the pot? Then follow us as we borrow the keys to an imposing £1.75million country house that’s just gone on the market and if you need a bit of inspiration with decorating your new home there’s some top tips for stylish rooms from the man himself, Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen. Still with style, we talk you through a 26 point guide to dressing better. It’s all about the accessories. One person who probably doesn’t need to know where to invest, or how to look good, is this month’s cover celebrity, Leonardo DiCaprio. With the highly anticipated release of Inception his career is again on the ascendancy. But that’s not all we have to offer you this month. We share our truly gourmet experience at Great Fosters’ award-winning dining room, take in some imposing and thought provoking art from Wyecliffe Galleries, and reminisce over some retro treats for the kids. Add to that the story of how a speeding incident led to the creation of the world’s most famous red vehicle plus a chat with the President of Lamborghini and you’ll find there’s just about something for everyone. What a read!
So Guildford
AUGUST 2010
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August InsIde your
RegulARs
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THIS MONTH …
FeATuRes
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What to buy, where to go and how to enjoy August in Guildford and surrey.
THE LETTERS The Borough Council is urged to try coalition politics and there’s a reminder that 65 is today considered ‘middle aged’.
THE NEWS
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A-Z OF ACCESSORIES
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TANNING TIPS
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CHILD’S PLAY
DREAM JOB NIGHTMARE Leonardo diCaprio tells us about trying to get his head round this summer’s biggest release, Inception. But what on earth is it all about?
INVESTING SMARTS From whisky to woodland, we reveal some unlikely places to put your money and watch it grow.
FAsHION
House prices across West surrey hit double the national average and Woking residents prove they’re a sucker for ice cream.
25 INSIDER WOMEN
THE SECRET
27 INSIDER MEN
We’re all familiar with the dennis trucks of the fire brigade, but do you know the local man behind the name?
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Bags for commuters, natureinspired jewellery and an essential sun hat. More inside knowledge for the ladies.
suiting inspired by Mad Men, festival-chic T-shirts and a must-have wallet are all on the cards for the chaps.
our guide to 26 essential little touches to complete your summer outfit.
How to get that sun-kissed look without damaging your skin.
What to kit the kids out with over summer. It’s a retro month with 80s film classics and 50s accessories.
HOMes &gARDeNs 50
FORGET NEUTRAL
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THE IDEAL HOME
Thoughts from Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen on how to make that room stylish.
Cover image: Leonardo DiCaprio, courtesy of Tom Munro/JBG/headpressphoto.com
Issue…
Through the keyhole at Hatchings Farm, the £1.75million country property just outside shere.
AuGusT 2010
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18 ART S & THEATRE
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THE RESTAURANT
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THE GOURMET GUIDE
THE GALLERY This month, our wall plays host to Shane McCoubrey’s huge abstract works available in Wyecliffe Galleries.
ON STAGE Our round-up of the best productions in Surrey and the capital throughout August.
IN TUNE From Kylie to Kula Shaker – the low down on some of the hits and misses just released.
FOOD & DRINK 69
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PERFECT PICNICS What better way to celebrate Summer than taking your family on a picnic.
We sent our man to the imposing Great Fosters hotel to find out whether the food matches the rest of the experience.
Eateries in and around Guildford to keep your taste buds interested.
MOTORS
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WORLD’S FASTEST GARAGE
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SOME SPYDER!
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RAGING BULLS
Buy one get one free is pretty good. Even better when you buy a yacht and they throw in a supercar…
The new Audi R8 takes centre stage as the perfect Summer drop top - we want one.
Lamborghini’s CEO Stephan Winklemann talks to us on a rare visit to the UK. Which supercar is his personal choice? AUGUST 2010
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GUILDFORD
SO
Head Office, Studio Six, Sussex Mews The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5QJ Tel: 01892 616 103 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 Account Manager Zane Lawrence zane@magazinepeople.co.uk Account Manager Paul Wood paul@magazinepeople.co.uk Head of Design Jodie Arundell jodie@magazinepeople.co.uk Designer Erica Price erica@magazinepeople.co.uk Senior Writer Melissa Woodland melissa@magazinepeople.co.uk Writer Dan Smith dan@magazinepeople.co.uk Production Assistant Phil Glover phil@magazinepeople.co.uk Contributors Valerie Thacker Damian Cotton Harriet Louvelle Nick Woodroof John Hiscock Matt Joy Published and designed by The Magazine People Ltd. Printed by Warners Ltd.
Find us on Facebook: SO Guildford magazine 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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bubinga.co.uk produces high-quality contemporary and traditional furniture. Our diverse range continues to grow with bespoke luxury rugs and a fully fitted bedroom collection including the Swarovski Crystal Star Light range exclusive to Bubinga. NEW SHOWROOM OPENING TIMES: Monday - Friday 9-6 Saturday: 10-5 Sunday: 10-4
Phone: 01252 781144 Fax: 01252 781155 Bubinga ltd, 2 Farnham Trading Estate, Farnham, SURREY GU10 9NN
www.bubinga.co.uk
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GUILDFORD
Ride…
Need the biggest and baddest bike in town? Well, here it is - the Confederate P120 Fighter. Designed and built in the good ol’ US of A, it’s a strippeddown, bare-chested beast of a bike with enough grunt to see you reach speeds in excess of 155mph (when you take it to the Bonneville Salt Flats of course). To embarrass Harley Davidson riders everywhere you’ll need to part with approximately £100,000 to buy the thing and then import it. Worth every penny though… confederate.com
This month Read…
Watch…
Wings & Wheels is once more returning to the Dunsfold Park aerodrome, near Cranleigh, for a bank holiday weekend of display aircraft and classic cars. On August 29 and 30 the skies will be filled with the sounds of both vintage and modern aircraft as the Red Arrows and other RAF legends take to the heavens. For those of you who prefer four-wheeled action, the runway will also act as a drag strip for American hot rods, European motors and a few modern classics as well. There’s plenty of action for all the family with a host of retail and craft stalls, plus a first class selection of attractions. Call 01483 542 226 or visit wingsandwheels.net
Loosely based on the discovery of Pluto, the story of The Unfixed Stars follows a number of characters forging their own futures in the gin-soaked years of the flapper era. While Clyde Tombaugh grinds the lens for his own telescope under the immense Kansas sky, a thousand miles away in Arizona, the staff of Lowell Observatory prepare to resume the long-interrupted search for Planet X. Elsewhere, the heir to a chemical fortune decides to go west in search of dinosaurs and God. Slowpaced and introspective, this is a novel that’s essentially about people; immerse yourself in their stories. £16.99 from Waterstone’s in Guildford, Godalming and Dorking.
Dance…
A great way to keep fit, meet people and have a fun time, dance classes have risen in popularity in recent years. You’ve heard of salsa, you know about jive, but are you familiar with Ceroc? An amalgamation of the two, but without the difficult footwork, Ceroc is a brilliant introduction to dance if you’ve never done it before and another style to master if you’re already a smooth mover. Classes run every Monday evening at the The Stoke, Guildford. Turn up at 8pm for beginner lessons or visit ceroc.org.uk for details.
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Wear… Fingers crossed that the sun’s out. And that’s enough of an excuse for us to get some new shades. These frames from Miu Miu ooze elegance and sophistication in their black and tortoiseshell guises. To add a little Summer fun and colour, try the green and lilac finish opposite. Converts to Prada’s sister project already include Misha Barton, Kirsten Dunst and Katie Holmes, so it’s not a bad bandwagon to get on. £109 from Sunglasses Hut, Guildford, 01483 569 939.
you should… Choose…
Gone are the days when your choice of speaker finishes was limited to just black or beech. Meridian Audio, widely recognised as a world-leader in high quality audio and video reproduction, is now offering the ultimate bespoke colour service - Meridian Select. Choose from almost 200 different colour finishes to the products which are hand-built to order at their headquarters in Cambridgeshire. Expect to pay around £7,700 for the DSP 7200 speakers shown here. To see and hear a Meridian Digital System locally visit Sevenoaks Sound and Vision, Guildford, or check out sevenoakssoundandvision. co.uk for details.
Rent… The story of how the 1995 Rugby World Cup truly marked the birth of the ‘Rainbow Nation’ of South Africa is told in an epic and dignified manner in Clint Eastwood’s Invictus. Available now to rent on DVD and fronted by acting heavy-weights Matt Damon and Morgan Freeman, the film shows how Nelson Mandela (tactfully played by Freeman) managed to rally the country behind the Springboks rugby team that went on to win the tournament. Available from Blockbuster in Guildford, Woking and Frimley Green.
Listen…
Tomorrow Morning is the third in a trilogy of concept albums from Eels, completing the set started with Hombre Lobo and End Times. As ever, the band offer a surreal insight into the world of their front man Mark Oliver Everett, who seems to have mellowed on this, their brightest and most overtly uplifting work. He says of the new record: “I wanted to make a warm album that was a celebration using electronic instruments to reflect joy in the times I live in.” Around £10 from HMV in Guildford and Woking. AUGUST 2010
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Enjoy… It’s time to pack a picnic because Jools Holland is in town, playing at Charterhouse in Godalming on Saturday August 7 with his rhythm and blues orchestra. The energetic home grown performer will be hammering out his usual mix of boogie-woogie, jazz and big band tunes in the beautiful setting of the school grounds, with the chapel as a picturesque backdrop. Special guest Alison Moyet will also make an appearance and the event will reach a crescendo with fireworks at the end of the night. Advance adult tickets £32.50 from imlconcerts.co.uk
Taste…
On Friday August 13 and Saturday August 14 Guildford Cricket Club will play host to the inaugural Guildford Beer Festival. With three ‘sessions’ over the two days (Friday and Saturday evening plus Saturday afternoon) it promises to be a great event. Live jazz band Headgasket will perform in the later hours, while the Saturday afternoon entertainment will come from Surrey’s first XI cricket team taking on Sutton. With up to 15 independents and micro-breweries taking part, there’ll be around 25 beers and ciders to sample. Tickets are £5 per session the afternoon begins at midday, while evenings kick-off at 6pm. See guildfordcc.com or call 01483 444 334.
Grill…
The Summer BBQ has taken on a variety of forms over the years, but perhaps none quite as stunning in appearance as The Loop, by designer Alistair Messom. We love striking aesthetics matched with function and this concept certainly fits the bill; The Loop is made from treated stainless steel - so is weatherproof - and it’s also very simple to take apart and clean. No gas here; only charcoal captures the true simplicity of grilling outside. For this kind of summer style you’re looking at £3,000 for a bespoke unit. See alimessom.com
Sit…
If ever there were an iconic phrase to rely on in difficult times it’s ‘Keep Calm and Carry On’. Now you can take the Blitz-time spirit with you to the beach or park with these deck chairs emblazoned with the famous mantra. Hand-made in Blighty, the chunky wooden frames are sure to last for years to come and, just like the originals seen on beaches across the nation, they fold flat for storage and transport. For full ‘Brit’ effect, try the classic ‘hanky on the head’ look teamed with a t-shirt tan. £75 from keepcalmandcarryon.com
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bubinga.co.uk produces high-quality contemporary and traditional furniture. Our diverse range continues to grow with bespoke luxury rugs and a fully fitted bedroom collection including the Swarovski Crystal Star Light range exclusive to Bubinga. NEW SHOWROOM OPENING TIMES: Monday - Friday 9-6 Saturday: 10-5 Sunday: 10-4
Phone: 01252 781144 Fax: 01252 781155 Bubinga ltd, 2 Farnham Trading Estate, Farnham, SURREY GU10 9NN
www.bubinga.co.uk
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T U N B R I D G EL EWTETLELRSS
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SO tell us... YOUR LETTERS PAGE
SO GUILDFORD LETTER OF THE MONTH: Sir, I understand that until the early 60s the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats worked together in Guildford to form a coalition Borough Council. Apparently it worked quite well. Perhaps they could try it once again which might make it more democratic. Most of the places on the policy making executive
Sir, The politicians are always going on about ‘Booze Britain’ and the best way of tackling binge drinking in the UK. A little ironic then that in the Houses of Parliament (July So Guildford) there are twenty six bars! That’s around the same as the whole of Guildford town centre! Rebecca Howe
are currently taken up by Tories. If a coalition is good enough for The Palace of Westminster it must surely be good enough for Guildford. Brian Skinner,
Guildford
Ed: Hang on. Let’s give the Westminster experiment another couple of months before rushing into anything.
Sir, There has been much wild talk lately about the fact that by the year 2030 almost one fifth of Surrey’s population is likely to be over the age of 65 putting further strain on support services. Maybe we should look at it the other way; by the year 2030 four fifths of our population will be under the age of 65 which, by the way, is today seen almost as “middle age.” Rosemary Hawkes
Dorking
Ed: That’s put it into perspective.
Via email
Ed: Let’s think about this one. Yes, the word hypocrites springs to mind. Sir, In a recent issue of your magazine (June) you listed what you called the Richest Roads although a number of roads with high value homes seemed to be missing, including ours. Howard Sinclair Guildford
Ed: Sorry, but that’s because the average value of properties drops where there are significant numbers of lower priced apartments.
Sir, Belated congratulations on the first issue (June) of your magazine which I have just read in my dentist’s waiting room. The story about the Guildford man who claimed he could make ‘gold’ and then eventually killed himself was extremely interesting and the sort of thing that keeps us in touch with our history. Carol Smock Guildford
Ed: Happy to oblige.
Sir, I found the wording on the front of your magazine a little confusing last month (July). The words ‘Greatest Guildfordian’ were next to a picture of an Australian actress called Nicole Kidman which threw me a bit. When I opened the feature inside she was nowhere to be seen. Gregory Wilkinson Godalming
Ed: She’s one of the few famous people with no connection to glorious Guildford and was our visiting guest celebrity. We accept Letters to the Editor by e-mail (info@magazinepeople.co.uk) or post to So Guildford, Head Office, Studio Six, Sussex Mews, The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5QJ. Letters must carry full names and contact details. Letters may be edited for publication.
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NEWS
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And now for
the news… OUR MONTHLY LOOK AT SOME OF THE STORIES MAKING THE HEADLINES INVESTOR SCREENING
Film lover and entrepreneur Mark Gudkin has appealed for investors to come forward and help him realise his dream of an independent cinema in Guildford.
HOME COMFORTS
According to a survey by Nationwide Building Society house prices across West Surrey are almost twice the national average (£306,000 against £169,000) with no signs of coming down. Compared to the same period last year prices locally have jumped 11 percent. The survey reveals that West Surrey, which has seen a 71 percent hike in prices in the last decade, contains the third highest priced homes in the outer metropolitan area behind Windsor and Maidenhead and St Albans. Medway in Kent is the cheapest place in the south-east with average prices of £182,000. This still means a rise in the last 10 years of 99 percent.
He’s looking for additional funds of around £50,000 to support his bid to buy the lease for the historic building at 170 High Street. His original bid was rejected by the Borough Council. Mark Gudkin, who runs film nights at the Guildford Institute, wants to open a cinema that would screen alternative, art house and mainstream movies. “We can safely say that after two seasons at the Guildford Institute there is definitely a market for the type of films we would like to screen on a daily basis,” he explains.
POT LUCK
Motorists across the county have been paid close to £500,000 for damage to their cars caused by potholes. The actual cost to drivers since December though is thought to be much higher.
Highways campaigner John Glanfield explains: “The conditions for payouts are He believes it’s “a fantastic opportunity” very severely limited so the true cost to for people to get involved with “one of motorists can easily be three times that the most exciting things to happen in sum.” Guildford for years.” The County Council admits some claims OUTLAW OVERDUE are ongoing and that the total costs are Business owners across the county have still not known. identified late payments as the biggest single threat to their companies. More than 60 percent of those who took part in the Business Network International (BNI) survey also called on the Government to take steps to outlaw overdue payments. BNI Director Clive Lawrence says: “Thirty days becomes 60 days which then becomes 120 days which is simply outrageous.”
CAGEY START
The Mandolay Hotel has been given the go ahead to stage cage fighting and kick boxing events at the London Road venue. The only restriction on the license variation is the fact that the events cannot be advertised in the immediate vicinity of the hotel which will be charging £55 a ticket. Responding to claims that combat sports promote violence a spokesman for the Mandolay says: “Our experience is that this is a very well-behaved crowd and causes nothing like the problems we have had at weddings and suchlike.” It’s thought the events will be held between four and six times a year.
The group, which is a business referral and networking organisation, regularly surveys the views and opinions of its 550 members.
FROZEN OUT
Woking residents are suckers for ice cream. And to prove it nearly 300 of them have signed a petition to keep an ice cream vendor on his pitch in the town square. For 15 years Pasco Guarino has been selling his wares outside the entrance to the Peacocks shopping centre. Now, though, Woking Borough Council says that because of refurbishment work on the entrance to the centre he has to move his van on safety grounds. A plea to be allowed to site his van 50 metres away has been rejected. Jenny Evans (26) says: “There are plenty of problems in Woking for them (the council) to focus on without picking on ice cream men.” AUGUST 2010
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AUGUST 2010
Copyright Daily Telegraph John Hiscock
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LEONARDO DICAPRIO
SO
LEONARDO DICAPRIO’S BEEN IN SOME HARD-GOING FILMS RECENTLY. EARLIER IN THE YEAR THE CHILLING THRILLER SHUTTER ISLAND KEPT US ON THE EDGE OF OUR SEATS AND HIS MOST RECENT OFFERING, INCEPTION, IS SUCH A MIND-BENDER THAT EVEN HE DOESN’T FULLY UNDERSTAND IT
Dream
words John hiscock
job nightmare “I don’t know where to begin,” he says helplessly. “It’s really hard.”
The movie that stumps this highly personable 35-year-old is Inception, a contemporary science-fiction thriller about a technology that can enter dreams and extract information from the human mind. Released in July Inception has to be one of the most highly anticipated films of the year. After thinking carefully, DiCaprio tells us: “I don’t know what I’m supposed to say about it, but it’s Chris Nolan [the British director of The Dark Knight] delving into dream psychoanalysis and also making a high octane, actionfilled, surreal film that is all spawned from his mind. He wrote the entire thing, and it all made sense to him.”
Then he adds with humourous honesty: “It didn’t make much sense to us when we were doing it, and we had to do a ton of detective work to try to figure out what the movie was and what we were doing from day to day, but, thank God, we had somebody who knew what he was doing.”
Earlier in the year came the only slightly more describable Shutter Island, directed by Martin Scorsese, which, as someone remarked, could aptly be described in Winston Churchill’s words as ‘a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma’. Adapted from the novel by Dennis Lehane (Mystic River, Gone Baby Gone) and set in the 1950s, Shutter Island follows DiCaprio’s US Marshal Teddy Daniels when he arrives on a remote island to investigate the disappearance of a murderess from a hospital for the criminally insane. DiCaprio reveals previously unseen depths of emotion to AUGUST 2010
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or once, Leonardo DiCaprio is at a loss for words. Normally, only his personal life is out of bounds, but the complexity of one of his new films is baffling him.
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Robert De Niro, Martin Scorsese with Leonardo DiCaprio
It is the fourth time DiCaprio has worked with Scorsese (their previous films were The Departed, Gangs of New York and The Aviator) and this time the director took him to places he had never been before as an actor. “The movie is ultimately about trauma and the dark side of humanity and it was shocking how deep and dark we had to go emotionally with this character,” he says. “When I first read the screenplay, I didn’t quite realise what we needed to put up on the screen, and it became a sort of giant emotional jigsaw puzzle with Marty and me realising we had to push it further and further for people to identify with the trauma. “Usually when I’m on a movie set, I’m able to detach myself from the process at the end of the day and go home and learn my lines for the next day, but this situation was a whole lot different. There were a couple of weeks when I was in a hole and it was the deepest I’ve ever gone with a character emotionally.” Clearly warming to the subject, he is now talking freely. “This movie is an interesting one to publicise because it’s being advertised as a Hitchcockian-type psychological thriller, but, at the end of the day, what Martin Scorsese does best is depict something about humanity and who we are as people. “He focuses on the emotions of the characters. So, as much as style plays a part of this, and as much as people will be attracted to the scares and the thrills of it, it’s a story about who we are as people.”
Looking relaxed and at ease in a sports jacket and casual trousers, DiCaprio is talking to us in a New York hotel just minutes away from Scorsese’s Manhattan office. Photographers are clustered outside on the pavement hoping for a glimpse of the star, who fiercely guards his private life and finds it irksome being the focus of attention whenever he ventures out. Unlike his peers Brad Pitt and Tom Cruise, he does, however, manage to maintain a semblance of a normal life, often going out unnoticed with his friend to clubs and restaurants, something he deems essential for his sanity. “I go out and have a drink every once in a while,” he says with a grin. “Ooh, I know that’s controversial, isn’t it? I sometimes go on a vacation, too. “I take what I do very seriously, and when I’m on the set that’s all I focus on, so my vice is to hang out with my friends and talk about absolutely nothing of importance whatsoever and act like a complete idiot because I’ve got to filter out a lot of the serious stuff I’m dealing with all the time. It’s like therapy to just be a complete idiot with my friends and it’s fantastic.” The boyish good looks that made him the idol of millions of girls, who went to see Titanic several times because of him, have matured and he has developed into a seemingly well-adjusted, self-assured man with a strong social conscience that has led him to become an ardent campaigner for the environment. He owns one car, the suddenly controversial Toyota Prius, and when he travels he flies on commercial airlines rather than in private jets. He was born and grew up in Hollywood although his parents, to both of whom he is still very close, separated when he
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portray a man trapped in a world imbued with paranoia about Communism and brainwashing, where everything is not as it seems.
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was one year old. Rejected by a casting agent when he was 11, he tried again at 14 and landed an agent and a toy commercial. Supporting roles in television series followed, but his first film role in Critters 3 gave little hint of his potential. Robert De Niro, however, spotted it and chose him for This Boy’s Life and he was on the way. His next film, What’s Eating Gilbert Grape?, won him a Best Supporting Actor Oscar nomination, and he used his new-found recognition to take on a variety of roles - as a young gunslinger in The Quick and the Dead, a heroinaddicted youth in The Basketball Diaries, Arthur Rimbaud in Total Eclipse and Romeo in Baz Luhrmann’s version of Romeo+Juliet.
Shutter Island
Then came Titanic and the media deluge, followed by The Beach, The Man in the Iron Mask, Steven Spielberg’s Catch Me If You Can and his partnerships with Scorsese. As ever, rumours of DiCaprio’s involvement in a number of forthcoming projects continue to circulate in the mass media. Right now, however, the man himself is being as secretive as usual. “These last couple of films have taken a lot out of me so I don’t know what I’m going to do next,” he says. “I have no idea and it’s kind of a cool place to be. “This year is going to be the year of really taking care of myself because I’ve reached 35 and I’ve taken a lot of things seriously, maybe too seriously at times, so I’m going to make sure that whatever I do next and whatever choices I make are really right for me. And we’ll see where that takes me.” One of the more solid rumours is that he’s set to play J. Edgar Hoover in the up-coming biopic of the late FBI founder and director. Directed by Clint Eastwood, the angle of the script is, as yet, unknown but there’s no shortage of meaty material to delve into. Hoover has been celebrated as a proponent of justice and was key in developing the FBI as a modern crimeprevention force, however his methods were not always above board. There’s also the case of Hoover’s now notorious closet homosexuality and penchant for crossdressing, so it’ll be interesting to see how Eastwood and DiCaprio depict the man. Not content with having acted for directorial giants Martin Scorsese, James Cameron, Robert De Niro and Baz Luhrmann, it’s also been rumoured that a project with Mel Gibson has been discussed. However, with the Apocalyto director’s recent behaviour the planned Viking movie might not take off.
The Aviator
Despite this, DiCaprio’s career is in as fine shape as ever. When he first hit the movie scene, opinion of the freshfaced pin-up was divided. Now, some two decades later, he’s certainly made his mark and is one of the most respected acting names in Hollywood... and on his current form is likely to go down as one of the greats. SO
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N O I H FAS
R E D I S IN MEN
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FASHION EDITOR MELISSA WOODLAND ON WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW THIS MONTH
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Nature-watch
The trend for ethereal, nature-inspired jewellery shows no sign of waning and leading the way is designer Alex Monroe. Famed for his perfectly proportioned insect necklaces fashioned in gold, his latest collection includes a modern take on the traditional locket. We love this posy-style pendant that opens up to reveal a tiny bird. Selected pieces from Alex Monroe’s latest collection are available at Hershey Jewellers and Silversmiths, East Molesey
Sale Season
With the weathermen promising us an Indian Summer, now is the perfect time to augment your holiday wardrobe with a few sale bargains. All the major retailers are offering discounts on this season’s collections, so if you’ve been lusting after a particular item, go and get it! I’ve already picked up a gorgeous mac in the Hobbs sale… Joy sandals - were £120, now £60, Piedaterre.com
New collection
Beach Style
If you’re hunting around for the ideal beach cover-up, look no further. This adorable drawstring dress by Gucci is perfectly summery in yellow and white and its easy-to-wear shape will suit most ladies. Floral print dress £1,135, Gucci @ Cruisefashion.co.uk
We’re prepared to invest in the latest ‘it’ bag to add a little wow to an outfit, yet we use the same old bag to carry round our laptop, regardless of what it looks like. The new range from Penelope and Parker is set to change all that. Their collection of covetable totes in soft leather is available in a spectrum of colours, so treat yourself to a couple to coordinate with every outfit. Bags around £240, handbagsandgladrags.co.uk
Top Hat
We’re now quite good at remembering to apply sunscreen to prevent us burning, but how many of us keep our heads sheltered from the harsh rays of the sun? This Summer there is a multitude of millinery options to choose from, whatever your style. We think this floppy sunhat is the epitome of Riviera chic. Sunhat £19, House of Fraser, High Street, Guildford
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N O I H S FA R E D I INS MEN 60s Style
With the UK premiere of the latest Mad Men season just around the corner, it seems appropriate that Jaeger has unveiled a range of beautifully cut suits in luxurious fabrics that even Don Draper himself would approve of. Closely tailored, with optional waistcoats, these suits are more forgiving than the 60s originals, but no less suave. From £400, Jaeger, High Street, Guildford
FA S H I O N
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WHAT YOU SHOULD BE WEARING THIS MONTH AT WORK, REST AND PLAY
Watch Word
If you’re in the market for an everyday watch that’s a little bit special, the Rotary Les Originales is definitely worth a look. This gents watch features a stainless steel cased chronograph with delicate indexes, a date window and burnt orange features set beneath sapphire glass. Les Originales watch around £285, Rotary @ Ernest Jones, High Street, Guildford
Attention!
If you can bear to face the sale crowds, a quick trip to town could yield a few gems. The military trend is set to continue into Autumn/Winter, so keep your eye out for anything with an army twist. This military jacket is ideal to take you through September and October. Guthrie jacket, was £175, now £105, Reiss, Market Street, Guildford
Pocket Change
If, when you reach for your wallet, you pull out a battered fold of leather that’s stuffed with receipts, it’s probably time you invested in a new one. This antiqued leather number from Marc Mamel is available in a decadent burgundy tone and its crackled finish makes it a little bit different to the usual. Wallet £166, Marc Mamel @ Matchesfashion.co.uk
Rock On
Festival season might be drawing to a close, but French Connection’s Rock Legends T-shirts could help you prolong the experience. Featuring classic shots of musical heroes like Mick Jagger and Ian Brown, they’re ideal for throwing on with a pair of shorts and flip flops. Rock Legends T-shirts £25, French Connection, North Street, Guildford AUGUST 2010
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They are The liTTle Touches ThaT Transform an ouTfiT from ‘so-whaT’ To ‘wow’. yeT many of us sTruggle To know which accessories To wear wiTh whaT. iT’s really noT as complicaTed as you mighT Think, Though, and This summer There are a few Trends ThaT you won’T wanT To live wiThouT, which is why we’ve creaTed This a To Z of The season’s besT accessories. so, be inspired by The ideas and sTyles over The following five pages. you’re sure To find aT leasT one Trend you’ll wanT To Try for yourself
Atozof
words MELIssA woodLANd
summer essentials
a.
Alice in Wonderland
since the spring release of Tim burton’s live-action remake of disney’s alice in wonderland, the accessories world has gone tea-party crazy. use it to add a little fun to an otherwise sedate look. Drink me necklace, £28, Hoolala.co.uk
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B.
Belts
use a belt to give an outfit something extra. a low-slung wide leather one around the hips is a great casual style you can wear with a simple shirt dress. waist belts (both narrow and wide) remain a favourite for creating an hourglass figure and jazzing up a pencil skirt/top combo for work. and a chain-style belt looks great with a floaty kaftan or linen trousers. Kirby Gold belt £45, Reiss, Market Street, Guildford
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ACCESSORIES
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Charms
Customisable bracelets and necklaces are de rigueur these days. From Pandora to Troll beads to Links of London Sweeties. Check out the quirky enamelled charms from Thomas Sabo. Pick and choose from silver and full colour charms that are designed to go on necklaces, earrings, mobile phones as well as traditional bracelets. Choose something fruity or opt for one of their holiday-inspired pieces. Thomas Sabo charms from £25, House of Fraser, High Street, Guildford.
d.
Detailing Not yet sure that you can pull off accessorising on the beach? Then opt for swimwear with some serious detailing instead. Buttons and studs, sequins and gems, find a swimsuit that’s embellished with a little sparkle and you’ll be ready for even the most glam of destinations. Sequin detail swimsuit £28, Oli.co.uk
Elegance
f.
Flowers One of Summer’s prettiest styles, florals are in full bloom. Delicate corsage-style blossoms are as on trend as blousy statement necklaces. Ceramic bib necklace £60, Freedom at Topshop, Friary Centre, Guildford
If you’re going to invest in some serious as opposed to costume jewellery, you can’t go wrong with some pearls. There’s a timelessness to pearl accessories that instantly adds class to your outfit. 11mm Freshwater cultured Pearl necklace with 18ct Gold clasp £1764, Orlando Jewellers, Sydenham Road, Guildford
E.
Gladiators Flat sandals remain a fashion staple. To keep your look modern, opt for a pair in an unusual print. Zebra print sandals £110, Piedaterre.com
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ACCESSORIES
iPod
Almost everyone has one, but if you fancy an upgrade, choose an iPod with an unusual case to make you stand out from the crowd. As well as an array of colour coordinating covers, you can pick up an MP3 in a wooden or Swarovski crystal finish. 18ct Gold and diamond case, around £15,000, Case-mate.com
Headgear
From hats to hair bands, fascinators to feathers, what you wear on your head is key. If you’re not usually a ‘hat person’, try on a few statement hair bands for size. Dragonfly hair band £69, Notonthehighstreet.com
J.
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Jellies You might remember wearing these on childhood holidays, but that doesn’t mean jelly shoes are just for kids. This Summer they’re back and they’re chic. Jelly sandals £45, Michael Kors @ Asos.com
K. Knots
From nautical-inspired rope bracelets to delicate gold twist earrings, knots are in. Wear a long scarf knotted instead of a belt with jeans or go for a chunky bracelet. Knot bracelet £110, Miquella.com
L.
Luggage Not strictly an accessory, more of an essential. If you’re headed for sunnier climes, you’ll need to pack your wardrobe in some suitably stylish luggage. Choose from vibrant pink, seductive purple in a mock croc finish or a sophisticated black damask in Jasper Conran’s new range for Tripp. Hand luggage in Rose £69.99, Jasper Conran for Tripp @ Debenhams, Millbrook, Guildford
N. m. Nails
Metals
Inject a little shimmer with a metallic finish if you’re looking for accessories to take you from day to night. This season’s necklaces are a great place to start. Metal necklace £26, CC, High Street, Guildford
If you don’t want to be adorned from head to toe with jewels, but like to look smart, painted nails can complete your look. From a classic French manicure to pillar box red, pick a shade that complements your look. You’ll be well polished in every sense. Nail polish £6.75 each, Boots, High Street, Guildford
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O. Oversized
Q.
Not sure about co-ordinating several accessories in one outfit? Pick one knock-out oversized piece. By going large with one accessory, you can keep the rest of your look simple and let your statement piece shine. Black cluster corsage £46, Martinewester.com
p.
Quilting
Prints, Pashmina Usually found wearing black? Inject a little colour with a scarf or pashmina. Choose one that suits your style – traditional florals, block colour and animal print are all wearable, instantly updating any outfit. And the pashmina is an indispensable travel accessory -perfect for warming up on an air-conditioned plane. Remember, a silk shawl can also serve as an evening jacket Pashmina from £25, Riomoda.co.uk
Since the classic Chanel 2.55 bag was created, quilted accessories have been coveted. Lady-like chic at its finest, a diminutive quilted bag with a chain strap is a timeless wardrobe staple. Vintage bag £1,920, Chanel @ Matchesfashion.co.uk
R. Rings
Safari This trend isn’t just limited to shirt dresses. Choose from obvious animal prints or more subtle earth tones and textures. Wear a statement animal shaped pair of earrings or cocktail ring for a more obvious look Leopard earrings £8, Accessorize, The Friary, Guildford
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S.
t.
From cocktail rings to solitaire diamonds, sometimes a knock-out ring is all you need to complete an outfit. A stack of narrow bands is currently on trend, so pick and mix a few designs that represent your personality and wear them together. Stack rings from £22, Daisy-stackingrings.co.uk
Tribal
If you wear earthy tones during the Summer (think beige, khaki and chocolate brown), tribal accessories are a must. As simple as a necklace strung with chunky wooden beads, this trend is a great way to inject colour and texture. Tribal bangle £12.50, White Stuff, High Street, Guildford
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Umbrella/parasol With the British weather being as unpredictable as usual, you’ll need either a parasol to keep the hot sun at bay or an umbrella to provide shelter from unseasonable rain. Find one that will suit either eventuality. Birdcage umbrella £32, Luluguinness.com
v.
Vintage It’s time to go rummaging. In the quest to stand out from the crowd, those with style are investing time rather than money and sourcing pre-loved pieces on ebay, at flea markets and via specialist websites. You’re sure to find a vintage piece to suit your modern style and you won’t have to worry about anyone else wearing the same as you. Feather brooch £12, Beyond Retro, Great Marlborough Street, London
w.Y.
Wedges
x. X-tra ordinary By now you should be feeling a little bit more confident about accessorising. So, with your new-found enthusiasm for those little extras, look out for a real wow accessory. It’s the piece of costume jewellery that people talk about, or that truly unusual bag that all your friends want. Find one thing that you love, regardless of whether or not it’s in this season, and use it. If it works for Lady Gaga, why can’t it work for you? Hair Bow £9.50, Lunacy.com
Comfortable and cool. You don’t often get to say both about one fashion trend, but mercifully, wedges are truly wearable. The solid sole makes them easy to walk in, while the shape is one that’s red hot this Summer. A great alternative to your usual work heels. Gold wedges £218 Castaner @ Matchesfashion.co.uk
Yellow
z.
It’s Summer. What better time of year to check out accessories in the sunniest of shades. With so many nude colours on the fashion rails, yellow trimmings are a great way to add a little zing. Try a vibrant scarf, nail polish or bangles. Yellow bangles from £12 each, Wallis, Millbrook, Guildford
Zips Zips shouldn’t be limited to just ‘serving a purpose’. This season they are the perfect option for adding a little rock star energy to your style. Look out for shoes with zip rosettes or pick up a necklace fashioned from fabric and metal. Zip necklace £18, Bagsofsparkle.co.uk
Hopefully our accessory alpHabet Has inspired you to cHeck out a different trend. Give sometHinG new a try - you’ll be lookinG fabulous in no time.
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CHIC AND LUXURIOUS CONTEMPORARY AND COOL E N J O Y A B R E A K I N R O YA L T U N B R I D G E W E L L S A T T H E B R E W H O U S E H O T E L R O O M S A V A I L A B L E F R O M £109 M I D - W E E K
T H E
B R E W
H O U S E
H O T E L
1 WA R W I C K PA R K R O YA L T U N B R I D G E W E L L S K E N T T N 2 5 TA Te l e p h o n e : 0 1 8 9 2 5 2 0 5 8 7 e-mail: info@brewhousehotel.com w w w. b r e w h o u s e h o t e l . c o m
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BEAUTY
THE HEAT OF THE SUMMER IS UPON US, AND WE’RE ALL LOOKING FOR THAT PERFECT TAN. BUT WITH THE RISK OF SKIN CANCER (40,000 NEW CASES REPORTED EVERY YEAR ACCORDING TO THE BRITISH SKIN FOUNDATION) AND THE AGEING EFFECT OF SUN EXPOSURE WELL DOCUMENTED, SUN SAFETY IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVER. SO WHY NOT TRY ONE OF THE SELF-TANNING PRODUCTS? WE THOUGHT WE’D HELP YOU FAKE IT AND ROAD TEST SOME TOP BRANDS TO SEE HOW THEY PERFORM. HERE’S HOW TO GET A GLOWING, NATURAL LOOKING TAN IN MINUTES
Faking it
Body Mist Bronzer Dry ks ea tr S o re N application, Ambré Solai 360 degree es bl na E for itself - no ): .99 sult speaks re he (125ml, £10 T . gs le an even tan. handy for icky, creating st particularly nno 7.5/10 d an Our rating: ght, light streaks in si too intense. ar pe ap n lour ca ): However, co 0ml, £21.50 Mousse (15 ic ag e M ss r ou ze zing m lash Bron an, this bron Lancôme F 1 luxury Self-T ’, and we o. th N ’s oo K U sm e d velvety Voted th an ht lig ream to use, he dr ‘feat oduct is a pr s e’ claims to be m cô 0 to agree. Lan r rating: 8/1 would have en result. Ou ev l, ra tu na providing a 5): 0ml, £24.9 n Lotion (17 Ta fel ns S ai al nt n rigi Bake co Fake Bake O ed tan, Fake 0% ant sun-kiss st in lasts up to 5 d an an g , in ts Giv en ag g fits in ne added be rived tann lus it offers naturally de P . ns ta lf s. se edient most longer than -cellulite ingr ing and anti ge -a ti an as such 9.5/10 Our rating: 0): 0ml, £20.0 g Lotion (12 n t zi n ea ro gr B a n is elf Ta Tropez St Tropez S effort in, St n; e io th at t ic pl pu ap to t ing for a perfec s If you’re will ep st e s st re . It la w their th nning lotion option. Follo and apply ta tural result, e, is na ur y st ul oi tr a m rs fe of d exfoliate, an ns, most self ta ight odour. longer than and with a sl de si er rk da albeit on the 9/10 g: n ti ra r u O d95): An awar (118ml, £21. both se g n in te lv In so e ss cceeds in su an Xen-Tan Mou -T en X It creates an ess tanner, l and streaks. el winning sunl sm d od s: problem ng: 10/10 self tanning tan. Our rati l ra tu na ly incredib btle For a more su lf of caution? se de of si nt e hi th a h on it fused w in s, Want to tan er tion is Lo ur y st uty Bod nted moi option, try ti mer Glow Bea y um od S B e er ov m D s like als Sum tan. Product er Skin Natur g, ni in ar G ow d gl a an ) 9 omise (250ml, £2.4 ml, £4.99) pr ers are Lotion (250 g ed moisturis in nt is ti ur s, st in oi sk M r le pa ths, r on fo m Perfect cooler gradual tan. lour into the co at ur e yo bl la ng ai ongi All av ideal for prol out of place. ok lo ld ou w n when a full ta tan.co.uk nxe or ts oo B need or streaks, or uneven colour t ou als ab si ed es ri the prof on If you’re wor ent, leave it to ev l ia ec sp a r a great tan fo y tan. ra sp a t and ge
WORDS: CLAIRE KIDMAN
OUR ‘FAKE IT’ DO’S & DON’TS DO: • Use a glove to apply fake tan. (Fake Bake and St Tropez both make good ones) • Exfoliate before application for an even looking result • Apply evenly in uniform circles avoiding heavy or light areas • Take care when applying to tricky areas like elbows, knees and feet • Wash hands well after application • Build up your tan gradually. The more you apply, the darker tone you will achieve DON’T: • Apply near furniture or carpets, as the product may stain • Dress before your skin is dry to the touch • Rush! A little extra time now will ensure a better result later • Apply fake tan to sunburnt or damaged skin • Swim or bathe within six hours of application
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C h I l d ’ s p l ay
Ideas for keepIng your lIttle ones entertaIned thIs month 80s Revisited Tied up there comes a time when you need to introduce your kids to the classic movies from your childhood. ghostbusters is one of those films. once you’ve rented the film, treat your offspring to this 80s style t-shirt. sadly they don’t come in adult sizes. Ghostbusters T-shirt £18, Littlehorn @ Asos.com
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Words: Melissa Woodland
take some of the tears out of hair brushing with this deliciously retro pigtail tin. starting with a classically styled comb and mirror, the set contains 12 vintage hair accessories, from little bow clips to hand-made, real wool pom pom hairbands. It’s perfect for little girls. Pigtail tin £15, Thechildrensalon.com
Building Blocks
these have to be the cutest storage boxes I’ve seen. moulded to look just like lego bricks (or a lego man’s head), the plastic boxes come in a range of colours and sizes. I can’t promise your children will fight over who gets to tidy up, but it might make putting the toys away that bit more fun. Lego Storage blocks from £17, Lego head £20, Aplaceforeverything.co.uk
Gone Camping
If you’ve had enough of bed sheets being used as make-shift tents, this adorable teepee might be a good alternative. made from unbleached cotton, the indoor tent can be left plain for your children to decorate, or it can be appliquéd with birds, flowers or a name. there’s plenty of room inside for a teddy bear’s picnic or to have an indoor camping trip. each tent is made to order, so no two teepees are the same. Teepee £198, Notonthehighstreet.com
Garden Games
tired of tennis or in need of a break from boules? there’s a whole world of giant garden games to enjoy this summer, from Jenga to skittles. this ludo board is made from canvas and can be rolled out anywhere. It comes complete with ground pegs to hold it in place and a full set of coloured ludo pieces. Ludo set £79, Aspace, High Street, Guildford august 2010
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Investing smarts inveSTinG
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WiTh inTereST raTeS aT a record loW, We’re all SearchinG For inveSTmenT opporTuniTieS For any Spare caSh. We WanT SomeWhere SaFer Than STockS and ShareS, more proFiTaBle Than a china piG and comFier Than under The maTTreSS. BuT Where To STarT? words MELIssA woodLANd
Time perhaps to turn away from the traditional investments and start buying tangible items that are likely to at least hold their value.
With a myriad of alternatives to explore we’ve spent the last month talking to experts in and around Guildford to see what they’d put money on. From that, we’ve drawn up a list of seven areas that have earned our interest. Some of them might not seem that obvious an opportunity, but our panel of those in the know think they’re worth serious consideration. So, from whisky to woodlands, we take you through our shortlist of alternative investments.
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T
he list of criteria for potential investments sounds like a pretty tall order in the current climate – secure, predictable, and profitable. But there must be opportunities that will let us sleep peacefully while our money grows.
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Traditionally, investment in whisky has been less volatile than its close cousin – wine (we’ll get to the grape later). Prices for old and rare whiskies are continuing to rise. This is due in no small part to the incredibly long lead time on high quality liquor, which leads to scarcity of the best barrels; single malts are generally not released for at least 12 years after production with some of the best laying in wait in excess of 40 years. Ben Ellefsen from South East-based Masterofmalt.com says that now is the time to think about buying to invest rather than drink, to take advantage of the ‘lag’ between production and demand. “Whisky is, in many ways, an easier investment than wine – it can have been sitting in the back of a drinks cupboard in a living room for decades without making a jot of difference to the contents. “However, my firm advice would be to only invest in malt that you like, and always follow the golden rule: Don’t invest in anything that you wouldn’t be happy to drink.
Over a barrel: Investors in Bruichladdich Octomore doubled their money in days.
Whisky
“Obviously, you have to have chosen your whisky carefully. But there have been a fair few sales in recent history that have seen a good return. Bruichladdich Octomore, for example. A very young, and very heavily peated whisky from Islay Distillery Bruichladdich illustrates a classic lesson in supply and demand. “When it was released at a price of £79.95, it was the most highly peated in the world, which happens when the grain is roasted over peat. The result? It sold out almost immediately, and subsequently appeared on a well-known internet auction site regularly selling for over £160 a bottle. More than 100 per cent profit within just a few days for those ‘in the know’. “Then there’s the Macallan 55 Year Old in Lalique Decanter that was launched in late 2007, a limited release worldwide of only 420 bottles, one of which we have. Price on release was below £6,000. This whisky now retails at £8,999 for a single bottle anywhere you’re lucky enough to find one. “It’s well worth investing in whisky from ‘closed distilleries’ those distilleries that are no longer producing. Whiskies like Port Ellen, Rosebank and Kinclaith have increased in value by more than 500% in the last 10 years, and show very few signs of abating in their ascent.” So, what kind of profit might we look forward to putting our money into whisky? If you invest wisely, it seems that over five years you could be looking at a return of up to 300 per cent. That’s worth a drink, or two!
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INVESTING
Gold
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Often turned to in times of financial difficulty, gold is a popular investment, with people purchasing bullion and jewellery to protect against currency devaluation and market instability. In its raw state it doesn’t go out of fashion and dips in value are generally short lived. Buying and selling at the right moment is essential. Usually, when times are tough, the price goes through the roof, but when the economy settles down, people return to stocks and shares and sell their gold. In June this year, gold reached a staggering $1,264 (£821) per ounce and the price is up nine per cent on last year. Experts, such as Bullionvault.com founder Paul Tustain, are predicting that prices could reach $2,000 (£1,299) before the current financial downturn ends. The Austrian mint, which sells gold coins and bars to the public, sold 485,000 gold coins in May this year, up from 83,000 in May 2009. It’s not just gold that’s growing in popularity though. Sales of silver are also up, with the Austrian Mint reporting an increase in sales from 1 million ounces in May 2009 to 1.85million ounces in May this year. Gold and silver also have the added benefit of being a liquid investment. Whilst they represent a stable place to put your money, they can also be cashed in quickly if necessary as there are always people ready to buy.
One expert believes the price of gold will reach $2,000 an ounce.
Jewellery So, what happens with gold or silver that has been crafted into an item of jewellery? It will still have a value as a result of the weight of the metal, but does it offer a good investment opportunity if it’s designed to adorn? Andrea Machin is a valuer at Surrey auction house Wellers. She says that whilst antique jewellery is not a ‘cheap’ investment, it may be a worthwhile one. “There are a finite number of antique pieces available, so the value of wellmade items is unlikely to go down,” she explains. “The actual gold content isn’t going to be very high, but attractive pieces will do well. “In particular, there isn’t much Roman jewellery around and we are unlikely to discover many more items. That scarcity raises the price that people are willing to pay.” While heavy, memorial jewellery and Victorian era items are out of favour currently, Edwardian and Art Deco and Nouveau designs are selling well.
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“We’re seeing a real increase in demand for pieces from The Belle Époque. There are several items coming up for sale in our Jewellery auction on October 22 that we’re expecting will sell well.” AUGUST 2010
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Wine
If you’re not confident about where to start with this Capital Gains exempt investment, work with a wine merchant and buy the very best wine you can afford. Wine aficionado Paul Pavli of Bacchus et al on Stoke Road, Guildford, says the return on good wine is outstripping traditional investments. “It’s obviously vital that you buy the right wine. At the moment, the 2009 vintage from Bordeaux is a cracker, a great investment. Buy it now and sell it in five years.” When you’ve found your chosen investment, it needs to be kept in a temperature controlled, air conditioned unit – if you don’t you wont be able to maximise your profit. Paul explains: “Buyers want to know where their purchase has come from and that it has been looked after. Storage is key. We always recommend keeping your wine in London City Bond, so there’s no question about the wine not being properly stored. What about when you want to sell? How do you know when’s the right time? Well, you can keep an eye on current auction
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prices. Decanter magazine publishes a great list of current auction prices, so you know what’s selling well and when. Paul says when you buy a wine for a financial return, you need to consult something like Robert Parker’s Guide. “That’ll tell you how long you should be lying the bottles down for and you’ll get an idea of how long to keep it before selling it on. And the all-important profit? “Well, a 2000 Château Latour sold for around £6,000 a bottle originally. Today, single bottles are selling for £14,500. That’s a great return on your investment. “I also invested in a case of 2000 vintage Port, paying around £45 a bottle. It’s now worth twice that.” Remember, the older a wine gets, provided it’s stored in the right conditions and keeps well, the more likely it is to appreciate. As time goes on, there are fewer bottles of these wines around to sell – people drink them!
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A good bottle or twelve of the very best vino makes for a sound investment over the medium to long term. But it’s fair to say you have to be in for the long haul. And you can’t just pick up a crate of any old wine and expect its value to rise.
Bottling it: Wine prices are down at the moment, making it a good time to invest. The 2000 Chateau Latour was a profitable buy.
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One... TwO... Three...
We are proud to announce the launch of two new prestigious lifestyle magazines, So Guildford and So Brighton & Hove. These inspiring new monthly magazines join our award winning first title So Tunbridge Wells to offer an unrivalled and targeted advertising platform reaching over 150,000 affluent readers every month in the South East of England.
To find out more please call 01892 616103
THE MAGAZINE PEOPLE ‘Passionate about publishing’
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Art & Antiques Like jewellery, the value of both art and antiques is almost entirely dependent on the fashion of the day. So-called ‘brown’ furniture, produced before the second world war, has been out of favour for some time, meaning prices are low. If you don’t mind waiting to get a return, now is a great time to pick up a bargain. Surrey-based valuer Andrea Machin says now is an excellent time to buy furniture. “If you buy a new piece of furniture and try to sell it the following day, it’ll only be worth ten per cent of the price you paid originally. You’ll fare much better buying antique. “However, the value is entirely dependent on trends. In the 1980s, Victorian furniture was really popular, but it hasn’t found favour since. Today, Georgian furniture is in and selling very well. “If you buy quality pieces that you like at auction, you’re unlikely to lose money.” So what about the trinkets and paintings that are so prevalent at auction houses? “I’ve been buying any good examples of craftsmanship. From woodcarvings to silver boxes. Those skill sets are dying out, so beautifully made items should only increase in value over time. ”As far as art is concerned, the most important thing to remember is to buy them in decent, original frames. Right now, I’d think carefully about buying Victorian watercolours. They’re currently selling for 25 to 40 per cent of their 1980s value, so may be worth picking up for when they become popular again, perhaps in ten or 20 years.”
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Forestry So, how does it work? Chartered Surveyor John Clegg of John Clegg & Co. sells around 150 pieces of woodland a year (about 70 per cent of the UK market) and says that there are two main routes to choose from. ”Buying commercial woods, such as those stocked with Spruce, can offer investors an annual return,” he explains. “However, you can also pick up smaller parcels of woodland closer to home (much of the commercial woodland for sale is in Scotland) if you’re looking for an investment that will appreciate in value. “Many buyers are purchasing woods with surplus cash and using it as a space to enjoy. It’s a very green investment
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– conserving your own woodland – and is considerably cheaper than buying farmland.” John Glegg’s company is in the process of selling a beautiful piece of ancient woodland just outside Dorking. The 40 plus acres host a variety of English species with areas of productive timber for future harvesting and it’s awash with wildlife. It’s an ideal example of a plot to buy for pleasure as well as investment. Competition for woodland is strong. “Forestry is a very attractive investment. It’s exempt from Capital Gains Tax and if you own it as a business, it is exempt from inheritance tax after two years. Plus prices are on the up; I’d estimate they’ve gone up around ten to 15 per cent over the last 18 months. “The old adage location, location, location still applies to woodland. If you buy a good plot in a good area, you’ll always be able to sell it. Land is always going to be there and you can’t make any more.”
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Money doesn’t grow on trees, right? Well, in a way, it does. A fast growing investment (no pun intended), forestry was the top performing sector last year, with returns of 11.1 per cent – around four times what you would get from an ISA.
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Classic cars Many of the investments on these pages might do your bank balance a few favours, but just how much enjoyment you can get out of them while they are under your ownership is debatable. However, it’s a different story if you enter the world of classic cars. These beauties from yesteryear can be a source of monetary growth and enjoyment, as well as helping you look rather sharp. Patrick Lloyd-Jacob of Royce Services and Engineering in Betchworth says there are two things to bear in mind when
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looking to invest in classic motors. Firstly, provenance is very important; cars once owned by celebrities are highly covetable and those with particularly interesting background stories should grow more as the market fluctuates. Secondly, coach-built cars are, as a general rule, more sought after. This is when a manufacturer sells the chassis and engine of their car to a specific coachbuilder to create the body. The resulting cars are usually rare and often beautifully designed. The Bentley S1 Fastback Continental, Patrick Lloyd-Jacob tells us, is a great example of this: “The Fastback pretty much doubled its value in three years,” he says. “Today you won’t find one in good condition for less than £150,000 and some are worth more like £200,000. Just two to three years ago they were on the market for as little as £80,000. Much of this is down to its desirable and distinctivelooking shape.” British built cars from the UK’s engineering heyday usually fair well in the market, so look out for Aston Martins, RollsRoyces and Bentleys. In terms of coachbuilders, the names Mulliner and Park Ward will serve you well if you’re looking at a car from the 50s and 60s, while pre-war Rolls’ will be worth a pretty penny if Gurney-Nutting adorns the body panels. “But essentially one of the most important things to remember,” says Patrick. “Make sure you buy a car at the right price for its condition. Otherwise, you could end up spending more than the car’s worth.” It’s time to take your money out of the piggy bank and start making it work for you. You never know, it might make you rich. But remember: Before taking any decisions on investing make sure to get advice from a professional.
Regardless of your investment of choice, there are a few rules that apply across the board. hing as an 1. Do your homework. Don’t buy anyt t it says it wha is it sure re you’ ss unle investment sure is and ask the experts if you’re not
It’s all about the provenance
top notch item is 2. Buy the best you can afford – one a lower quality of ral seve than nt stme a better inve rich. Nothing is 3. Be prepared for it not to make you investment your for ket mar guaranteed, so if the enjoy your can you if ned softe is blow crashes, the purchase on its own merits your eye out for 4. Purchase at the right time – keep lly a good usua ’s That ket. mar the of the bottom time to make a purchase ove your bank balance 5. Sell at the right time – that’ll impr e investments Be ready to play the long game. Som e sure your Mak ure. take longer than others to mat SO stic. expectations are reali
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COLOUR, CHARACTER AND STYLE ARE LAURENCE LLEWELYNBOWEN’S TRADEMARK WHICH IS WHAT PROMPTED US TO ASK HIM TO SHARE WITH US SOME OF HIS TOP TIPS FOR STYLISH ROOMS
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V designer Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen pales almost to the same ivory shade as his silk shirt at the idea of re-vamping a summer room by plastering it with a fresh coat of magnolia paint.
“So dull! So yesterday!” he exclaims in exasperation. “People should now feel free to ignore that outdated estate agent’s rule that all interiors must be neutral. “The recession’s made everyone re-evaluate their homes. And as generally it’s too expensive to move, once again they can be places where we show off our style, enliven them with eccentric touches, and conjure personal sanctuaries.” Laurence knows a thing or two about creating flamboyant, dramatic, ostentatious effects, and make-a-statement rooms. He originally found fame in 1996 as the extrovert designer on BBC’s Changing Rooms, where each week he had 48 hours and £500 to make-over a room for a member of the public. At its peak the show had 13 million viewers, and watching the home-owners’ reactions, ranging from delighted and surprised to horrified, was as fascinating as the schemes.
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He says with a smile: “The funny thing is that actually I didn’t have that many who didn’t like my make-overs. But people remember them because they were controversial and it gave me a bit of a fun reputation as a bad boy!”
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Since those days he’s toned down his look. But while the trade-mark frilly shirts are gone, and he only occasionally dons leather trousers, the 45-year-old’s collar-length blow-dried locks are a fixture. In his latest book, Decorating With Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, he explores 30 colourful and inspiring interiors, including his own Cotswold home and gives step-by-step tips on DIY projects. Some of them, such as drawing on furniture with a gold pen to fake a gilded gold leaf effect, are reminiscent of those budget-conscious Changing Room effects, while others are down-to-earth, practical techniques for tiling, picture hanging or upholstering a headboard. Laurence, who lives with his wife Jackie and two daughters, Cecile, 14, and Hermione, 11, in a Gloucestershire manor house, says he wants to show people they can add style and glamour to their homes without breaking the bank. “It’s truly not difficult to use tricks and techniques to overcome or disguise the flaws or unlovable corners. So although there’s no such thing as a perfect home, with a bit of imagination you can create a home that’s perfect for you and your family.” Follow Laurence’s tips for a magical home make-over Bowen-style!
FIRST STEPS TO SUCCESS “When people ask me how to start designing a room, I often suggest they start with a cold glass of Chardonnay,” says Laurence with a smile. “Though this advice might sound flippant, there is a point to it. At this stage of the design process it’s important to be as relaxed and as unconstrained as possible.” Next, he advises, spend time building up a mental picture of an ideal or fantasy room, and keep photos, cuttings from magazines, and scraps of fabrics which can be clipped to a ‘mood’ board for inspiration. “The board will help you recognise the colours you’re naturally attracted to, and which decor and furnishing styles appeal.” And, most importantly, he advises completing any essential practical DIY jobs before decorating and furnishing begins. “You don’t want to run the risk of having to stop mid-way or, worse, ruining what you’ve achieved because, for instance, you’ve been forced to take up a floor or install a light switch,” he warns. Bowen’s tips: Very dark or very light colours show age far worse than midtone shades. Floor coverings start ‘shadowing’ after a few years of use, so work out where the most trafficked areas are and choose dark or mid-tone shades accordingly.
COLOUR AND CONTRAST Open the lid to the colour paint box, and start experimenting, urges Laurence. “My sincere hope is that we all grow in confidence and start to enjoy colour again, if for no other reason than because getting a beige colour scheme to work is horrendously difficult,” he points out. ▼
“Also ‘de-beiging’ a room is the best way to give it a tonic. Colour brings
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energy and diversity. If you were going to paint a room a neutral shade, very often it will turn out to have a green-ish hue, so you might as well choose green in the first place.” Bowen’s tips: If colour charts baffle, imagine colours as flavours, as it may help you pair different shades such as limes and yellows. Cool colours, he says, make walls feel more distant, while reds, browns, deep oranges and purples, draw walls in. Bowen’s best buy: His new paint collection for B&Q boasts intriguingly-named shades, from a steel grey, Clooney, to a deep blue, Touchy Tealey. Paint from £16.98 for 2.5 litres.
Luxe Living rooms Getting the layout right for this multi-functional room is key, says Laurence. “Personally, I like a room to both look sensational and be convenient. For me, this means that everything has a preordained space where it works best.” He favours an L-shaped layout for sofas, with one facing a fireplace or feature wall, and another a television. Wallpapering alcove shelves, rather than painting them, can be extremely effective he believes, and will give more prominence to the objects displayed on them. “If you can’t work out what’s wrong with a room try ‘furniture therapy’,” Laurence suggests. “Move everything into the middle of the room and then put it back in a different place. it’s very re-invigorating and will shake up a setting, and let you recognise the potential for change.” Bowen’s tips: Use stripes to stretch a space. Make short, dumpy rooms feel taller by sprinkling verticals such as full-length curtains, thin wall panels and leggy standard lamps. Alternatively, broaden a room with horizontal striped wallpaper or a paint effect. Bowen’s best buy: Laurence’s wallpaper collection for Graham & Brown includes Mystique, £30 a roll. An intricate design echoes the jali-screens and lattice work of the Caribbean’s colonial mansions.
Boudoir wizardry “There’s always space for a little creativity when it comes to bedroom layouts, so don’t feel tied to the walls,” says Laurence. “If there’s room put a bed in the middle of the space which will make it look very grand. Make sure there’s a headboard so pillows don’t fall off, and consider a piece of furniture like a console table or desk at the foot of the bed to finish the effect.”
Alternatively, make a statement with a headboard, such as a gilded
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Bowen’s tips: Make a bed into a cosy nook by building a moulded architrave above it and flanking it with built-in cupboards with open alcoves at the bed head end so you have space for lamps and books.
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ornate one, or paint a mural which will distract the eye from any ugly corners or lack of space. Stencils can be equally effective, and companies such as stencilwarehouse.com have comprehensive ranges. Bowen’s best buy: Laurence’s Influence bedding set for Matalan. A purple jacquard duvet set, £35 for a double size, £40 for a king.
“The idea is to make one wall so eye-catching that the other three recede into the never-ever. In a long, narrow room the end wall, the wall furthest from you, is an ideal case for a feature wall,” he says. “It will help you to square the space and kill off the room’s corridor-like proportions. Never bring the walls forward by creating a feature wall at the narrowest point!”
FUNKY FEATURES
Bowen’s tip: Give personality to a room by painting images on walls, for instance, a table, bottle of wine and two glasses to suggest relaxation in a bathroom.
Feature walls are a popular way of bringing pattern and colour into a room, and a way of experimenting with new effects, says Laurence.
Plunder companies such as Not On The High Street who have a large selection of wall stickers, if you don’t trust your artistic skills. SO
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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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THE LARGE COUNTRY PAD IS AN IDEAL THAT’S BECOME ENGRAINED IN THE BRITISH PSYCHE. AND IT’S AN UNSURPRISING DREAM WHEN YOU TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION PLACES LIKE HATCHWAYS FARM, IN BURROWS CROSS, NEAR SHERE
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Other feathers in the £1.75 million property’s cap include stunning views of rolling North Downs countryside, four acres of grounds,
a large barn area, external offices and wine storage – and that’s without even entering the main building. Upon arrival at the gates of Hatchways Farm you’re greeted with an imposing, yet not overly-showy frontage of the house. It’s a squat building for such a large home and it suits its surroundings, rather than sticking out like a sore thumb. This theme continues inside, where the amenities are large and luxurious, but far from over-the-top.
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t’s said that an Englishman’s home is his castle, and though the phrase might be slightly outdated these days, it certainly rings true if the Englishman (or woman) in question owns the keys to Hatchways Farm. The spacious country retreat nestled between the two larger towns in the area, Dorking and Guildford, is certainly grand in proportions.
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A roomy kitchen and breakfast area lead away from the entrance hall and through to a pleasant octagonal conservatory, while almost a third of the ground floor is given over to a large reception room. Here, you’ll find an impressive fireplace and double doors that lead out into the gardens. Also at the back of the house, with views of the hills dropping away into the distance, are the family and dining rooms. On the first floor are four decent sized bedrooms, including a very pleasant master room with a large en suite boasting both a Jacuzzi bath and a shower, plus the usual WC. From the height of this floor the surrounding grounds - that could potentially be used for grazing horses - can be fully appreciated. Planning permission has already been granted for a two-storey extension to the property and any budding building developer could also make great use of the large barn that’s approximately 9.5 by 6m (30 by 20ft) in measurement. One idea might be to convert the space into stables to accommodate those looking for further equestrian activities. A small hallway links the hub of the house with the three berth garage, which (since the owners converted one third into office space) can now accommodate two cars, while the wide gravel driveway offers even more room for the family’s motors. The garage also has a small area for wine storage, so there’s no need to clutter the main house with your finest Bordeaux. All in all Hatchways Farm hits the nail on the head for the ideal Surrey country pad. It’s large, with plenty of opportunity for expansion, and more than enough to keep the family and guests amused time and time again. SO
Hatchways Farm at a Glance: Price: £1.75 million Location: Burrows Cross, Shere Land: 4 Acres Bedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 3 Extras: barn, office, wine store, conservatory Contact: Gascoigne-Pees, 01483 533 366
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Part of the County Glass Group Est 1952
•Conservatories •Windows •Doors •Soffits •Fascias •Glass •Mirrors •Glazing
Tailored for your lifestyle. Our heritage is your security
01483 766607 90/92 High Street, Horsell, Woking, GU21 4SZ www.the-glass-centre.com
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ROBYN BAILEY DESIGNS Showroom at: 102 West Street FARNHAM Surrey GU9 7EN 01252 712989 www.woodfloors-farnham.co.uk
Creating inspirational interiors
Whether you need inspirational ideas to update one room or for a whole house refurbishment, it certainly helps having the expert advice of a professional interior designer to create your dream interior. It can save you time, money and the stress of organising and sourcing everything yourself.
Telephone or visit our website for more details and book an appointment www.robynbaileydesigns.co.uk Tel: 01403 871221 robyn@robynbaileydesigns.co.uk
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The latest on The Greatest Guildfordian G R E AT E S T G U I L D F O R D I A N
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WE ASKED YOU TO VOTE – AND YOU’RE DOING JUST THAT. YOU’RE LETTING US KNOW WHO YOU BELIEVE SHOULD HOLD THE TITLE OF THE GREATEST GUILDFORDIAN
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ast month we published the names of 25 men and women considered to be among the ‘best’ to have graced our streets since the town was created 1,600 years ago.
We’ve received hundreds of votes so far and can now reveal the Top Ten candidates you want to go forward to the final stage of the contest. They are, in no particular order: 1. Musician Eric Clapton 2. Model/Presenter Jodie Kidd 3. Novelist Lewis Carroll 4. Actor/Writer/Director Terry Jones 5. Singer/TV personality Cheryl Cole 6. Musician Mike Rutherford 7. Illustrator EH Shepherd 8. Musician Ringo Starr 9. Inventor Sir Barnes Wallis 10. Novelist HG Wells
But it’s not over yet. You’ve whittled our list down to the Top Ten and now it’s time for the next round. Votes for all the above will be accepted until midnight August 18 and the winner will be unveiled in our September issue. Votes already cast for our Top Ten will be carried forward. You can take part by...
Musician Eric Clapton
d die Kid ter Jo resen P l/ e d Mo
Email: vote@magazinepeople with So Guildford and the name of the person you’d like to nominate in the subject field Post: Write your nomination on a postcard/letter and send to ‘The Greatest Guildfordian’, The Magazine People, Head Office, Studio Six Sussex Mews, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5QJ. Keep those votes rolling in!
Novelist Lewis Carroll
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THE GALLERY – SHANE MCCOUBREY
Shimmer, acrylic ink, 18ct gold leaf and acrylic resin coating on canvas (60x48in) £2595
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Light Fantastic, mixed media: acrylic, pastel and spray paint with textured plaster on canvas (60x48in) ÂŁ1995 Works featured can be viewed at Wyecliffe Galleries, 6 York road, Weybridge KT13 9DT www.shanemccoubreyart.co.uk info@wyecliffe.com 01932 847 939
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Perfect picnics r e S ta u r a n t
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School’S out for the Summer and what better way to celebrate with your brood than throwing a picnic? italian chef antonio carluccio giveS uS hiS top tipS for picnicking in Style
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arents across Surrey are dusting off their plastic cutlery, ready to indulge in a very traditional Summer activity; the picnic. but when was the last time you analysed your picnicking behaviour?
as chef antonio carluccio underlines - he’s the man who founded the restaurant chain that today bears his name there’s more to creating a great spread than packing a round of cheese sandwiches and a flask of squash. the perfect picnic requires a little more preparation, says the 73-year-old.
“they were so proud. all the other parents didn’t have much, auguSt 2010
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while carluccio has no children of his own, he has fond memories of looking after his ex-wife’s three children and remembers preparing a picnic for an event at their school one Summer.
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they had bought it from a local supermarket, but I was cooking the real stuff and they were very pleased about that.” Wanting to pass on his love of eating aflresco, the outgoing Italian who looks and sounds like everyone’s favourite uncle, has recently launched a picnic range. “Having a picnic is one of the best outdoor activities we can do in this country,” he says in his strong Italian accent. “It’s something out of the ordinary, usually you eat around the table, but the table’s not there, you eat in the middle of nature.” Carluccio grew up in Italy during WW2, and says as a young boy there “wasn’t much time for picnics”, although as a young adult he would go into the mountains in the Piedmont region whenever he could for picnics with friends. “In the mountains, you find little trattorias where they have locallyproduced stuff like salami, bread, and wonderful anchovies and we’d take it to the fields and eat it there. Maybe a little wine, but sometimes we didn’t need it because we were jolly without it. It was just the joy of being in the mountains and the fields smelling of wonderful herbs. “I remember people making salads out of the herbs and there was plenty of food to forage, like berries.” His recipe for the perfect picnic begins with the right mix of people. “Start with one - your lover,” he says with a laugh, “and then it goes to friendship and so on. In other words, it has to be jolly, that is the first ingredient. And then don’t make it too complicated, have really tasty food that is easy to prepare and put into the mouth, and wonderful drinks.” The picnic spot is also hugely important. Carluccio’s favourite place in the UK is just down the road – the New Forest. “It’s pure countryside. You can go foraging for mushrooms in season and a pony might come over because he’s curious to see what you’re eating. “I see something very sad though - people park their car next to the road, take out their table and they’re picnicking there instead of going a little bit into the countryside. It’s lazy to the highest degree!” As for the little ones, Carluccio insists that they should be able to eat the same food as the grown-ups. “I find it sad that children have to have fish fingers and all that. The food should be prepared so that everyone can eat the same - the earlier they start, the better. “It may be that some children don’t like an item, but a good mother knows to prepare something special, at home, not just bought without love. Carluccio’s makes an effort to make something good for everyone.
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“Preparing food for other people is an act of love. Naturally for me it’s also a business, but behind it is the reason of pleasing people, making the effort to think what will please and what could be good for the situation, like eating with fingers.”
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Handcross Village Butchers Established Over 100 Years Ago
Providing quality British meats to hotels, restaurants & the catering industry
Prime English, Beef, Lamb and Pork Big Enough to Deliver, Small Enough to Care Handcross Village Butchers Windyhills, Handcross, West Sussex RH17 6BN
Tel: 01444 400396 Fax: 01444 400655 info@handcrossvillagebutchers.co.uk
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For your next picnic, why not try these recipes taken from Carluccio’s book Simple Cooking... Green salad with fennel (Serves 4) • 4 baby gem lettuces • 2 fennel bulbs • 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil • Juice of lemon, plus the finely grated rind, or, if you prefer, 3 tbsps of balsamic vinegar • Salt and pepper Wash the lettuces and cut in quarters lengthways. Pull the leaves apart, discarding those on the outside if not tender. Put in a bowl. Discard the tougher outer leaves of the fennel, then cut the remaining flesh into very thin slices horizontally. Add to the bowl. For the dressing, combine the oil, lemon juice and rind (or vinegar), salt and pepper in a bowl and mix well. Pour over the salad, toss and serve. Roasted peppers (Serves 4) • 4 firm and fleshy yellow and red sweet peppers For the dressing: • 2 garlic cloves, peeled and coarsely chopped • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil • 1 tbsp coarsely chopped flat-leaf parsley • salt
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• For the mayonnaise: • 2 egg yolks • Salt and pepper • 1 tsp French mustard • 100ml olive oil (not extra virgin) • Juice of 1/2 lemon Put the eggs in a small pan of cold water, bring to the boil and hard-boil for 15 minutes. Drain and leave to cool. To make the mayonnaise, beat the egg yolks with a pinch of salt and the mustard in a bowl until creamy. Slowly pour in a little of the olive oil, whisking constantly until amalgamated. Keep adding the oil a little at a time, whisking all the while, until the mixture has thickened and all the oil has been used. Now add the lemon juice and mix well. Taste for seasoning and cover until needed. Peel the eggs and cut in half. Remove the yolks, place in a bowl and, with a fork, reduce to a pulp. Mix this with the tuna, capers (reserving a few to use as garnish) and enough mayonnaise to be able to form balls the size of the original yolks. Place these in the holes of the halved egg whites. Arrange the eggs in bowls, cover with some more mayonnaise and serve topped with the gherkin slices and reserved caper pieces. All recipes are from Simple Cooking by Antonio Carluccio published by Quadrille, photography by Alaisdair Hendy, priced £20.
Roast the peppers on a barbecue, turning them over frequently with tongs, until the skins are blackened and blistered. Depending on the flame, this can take quite a while. Don’t be afraid of allowing them to become black; they’re better overcooked than too raw - but you don’t want them to turn to ash! Alternatively, roast the peppers in a preheated oven at 200°C/Gas 6 for about 30 - 45 minutes. However, while this method is a little less labour intensive, the flavour is not quite so good.
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When the peppers are ready, put them in a dish to cool a little. I don’t think they need to be put in a plastic bag or covered, despite the advice of many other chefs. When cool enough to handle, rub the skins off with your hands and discard, then slice the peppers in half and remove the stalks, inner membranes and seeds. Cut the pepper flesh lengthways into narrow strips and place in a dish. Add the dressing ingredients and mix, seasoning with salt to taste. You can eat the dish straightaway, or leave it to become cold - but it is at its best the next day, when the flavours have had time to mingle. Tuna-stuffed eggs (Serves 4-6) • 6 large eggs • 150g canned tuna in oil, drained and finely chopped • 12 salted capers, soaked, drained and finely chopped • 1 gherkin (optional), finely sliced AUGUST 2010
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GREAT FOSTERS, JUST OUTSIDE EGHAM, HAS SOMETHING OF A REPUTATION FOR ALL THE RIGHT REASONS. THE TYPICALLY ENGLISH COUNTRY GROUNDS ARE MATCHED BY ESTEEMED ARCHITECTURE AND A PROMISE OF LUXURY, BUT DOES THE RESTAURANT EXPERIENCE LIVE UP TO THE HYPE?
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ou can’t fail to be impressed with the overall appearance of Great Fosters. Indeed, the 16th Century mansion is so prized that it’s listed as a Grade I building and, having been a luxurious family home for much of its existence, is now an AA highly commended hotel. Certainly, both locally and nationally, the place enjoys quite a reputation.
This is all well and good but, as we know, hotel restaurants have been notoriously slow to keep up with the demands of the discerning modern diner. With that in mind, on a balmy Summer’s evening and accompanied by my better half, I visit Great Fosters to enjoy the service and surroundings, as well as to find out whether the gourmet offerings of the restaurant mirror the rest of the operation. As we enter, the grace of bygone days beckons and we’re lured through the stout oak door with its wicket, single person entrance. The snuggled splendour of an elaborately panelled passageway immediately immerses you in an historic idyll. And the place is certainly steeped in history; it’s believed King
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George III was treated for madness here and it has hosted numerous royal visits of a more enjoyable nature. Other notable visitors include Charlie Chaplin and Orson Welles, prompting a distinct feeling of unworthiness on my behalf as we enter the building. Despite this, we’re warmly welcomed by the courteous and professional staff and within minutes feel at home. While Great Fosters has a colourful and varied history, it’s clear that the 16th Century building has been sensitively modernised and skilfully blends modernism with the grace of the past. We decide to take pre-dinner drinks overlooking the wooden Japanese Bridge, however, in colder weather the open fireplace in the Main Hall would make an equally relaxing start to the evening. On the terrace, while enjoying the evening air, we’re greeted by Etienne Le Guil, Food & Beverage and Assistant Hotel Manager. Etienne been with the company for the past seven years and, as we admire the views of the 50 acre gardens, he talks us through the history of the hotel and details the Great Fosters’ gourmet menu. The menu offers a rich range of modern English cuisine and, under the supervision of Head Chef Simon Bolsover, has earned two AA rosettes. Daniel Bouley, the Restaurant Manager, proudly displays the menu that we’re set to eat from. It’s refreshingly laid out, with the dishes simply labelled with their key ingredient. This means the ‘slow cooked Dedham estate old spot pork with truffled crubeens, tender stem broccoli and langoustine’, is simply marked as ‘Pork’, with the short description below. It’s a pleasant way of doing things, highlighting how tiresome and pointless some pretentious dining experiences have become.
Back at the table our appetites are whetted with a freshly made variety of breads, including bacon, onion and olive (we are, you’ll learn, big fans of good fresh breads at So
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As an aperitif we’re recommended the Brice Rose Champagne, the £60 bottle is full flavoured, extremely rich with elegance and class. This we sip while taking a brief walk around the well-tended formal walled gardens. One could almost picture Alice in her Wonderland skipping among the topiary yew-hedged gardens smelling the sweet mixtures of herbs and flowers.
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Guildford). Following these delights, the Parmesan Beignet, an amuse bouche of chicken stock, onion, cream and parmesan prepare us well for our starters. When my crab starter arrives, I’m glad I took a light lunch; served in a Portland risotto it also comes with Parmesan, crisp chicken wing and poultry jus. It’s a delicate and light entrée. Meanwhile, my dining partner opts for the braised ham hock, which is served with herb spatzle and a caper and raisin puree with brioche croutons. She tells me that the sweet croutons and raisins complement the thick, savoury homemade egg noodle. Who am I to disagree? Daniel Bouley is on hand to recommend a light, dry but rich French white wine - Hautes Cotes de Nuits (£27). This, we’re informed, will also match well with my main course of linecaught seabass fillet with vanilla potato puree, salsify and sweet carrots. Again, my rather carnivorous companion takes the meatier option and the Cumbrian lamb rump emerges from the kitchen with pod peas, ricotta gnocchi, black olive and confit tomatoes. With this, we’re offered a Portuguese red wine, Azamor Touriga Franca-Syrah-Merlot (£39). I take the executive decision to sample a little of both the lamb and the wine; together they are divine and the meat is juicy and soft - far too many places overcook lamb, ruining the flavour and toughening the meat. We’re also given the opportunity to taste the aforementioned slow cooked Dedham estate pork that, with its accompanying langoustines, illustrates the array of foods available at Great Fosters. Overall, our dishes are artistically and colourfully presented, but despite this you can tell that for the chefs it’s the customer’s enjoyment that takes preference. At this point, already feeling rather over indulgent, we pause to wander the gardens further afield, drawn towards to the grassed amphitheatre where, no doubt, Shakespeare lovers have immersed themselves in many a theatrical performance. Upon our return to the table, we review the range of varied desserts; they’re indeed theatrical! Again, we sample a number and are particularly impressed with the dark chocolate sphere with lemon and salted caramel. This contrasts well with the two refreshing offerings of wild strawberry mousse and lavender milk sorbet. We’re sold. There are few places I’ve visited in recent memory that combine such stunning aesthetics in terms of both environment and food, as well as informative and attentive service. A gourmet experience indeed presented by a dedicated and hospitable team in a wonderful location. SO
At A Glance Wine By glass - from £5.75 By bottle - from £23
Food 3 course lunch - £24.50 3 course á la carte dinner - £49
Tel: 01784 433 822
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GOURMET GUIDE
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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 Little Dudley House 77 South Street, Dorking Surrey RH4 2EU 01306 885 550 Cuisine: 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
The Inn at Maybury Maybury Hill Woking GU22 8AB 01483 722 115 Cuisine: Modern British
Happy Eating! To discuss your restaurant appearing in the gourmet guide, or if you would like to suggest one, please call 01892 616 103 AUGUST 2010
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T R AV E L
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IF YOU ASK NICELY WHEN BUYING A NEW CAR YOU MIGHT GET A SET OF FLOOR MATS OR A FREE TANK OF FUEL TO SWEETEN THE DEAL, BUT HERE’S ONE OF THE BEST ‘FREEBIES’ YOU COULD POSSIBLY IMAGINE...
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With high gloss mahogany inlays on the fore deck and all-glass atrium covering the cockpit, the Strand Craft 122 Express offers a true open experience with all the comforts of being fully enclosed. Powered by twin 9000hp MTU diesels, it has an estimated cruise of 40 knots and punches out a maximum speed of 55 knots.
At 122 feet, the proportions of this dock candy will dwarf most cigarette siblings, but that’s where the go-fast bravado stops.
The most stunning feature of the 122, though, is the specially handcrafted supercar. It’s a completely one-off design closely
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he Swedish boat maker Strand Craft, renowned for its groundbreaking design, is launching its latest extravagant motor yacht the 122 Express and is throwing in a specially hand-crafted supercar to complete the playboy image. What’s more the car will have its very own ‘garage’ aboard the £17million craft.
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resembling the genetic form and fashion of the mothership. Slightly retro with a swoopy silhouette much like momma, it will be handcrafted in Italy. A hydraulic garage door raises upwards and deploys a retractable passarelle to become a dockside driveway. The passarelle will be hinged, allowing up to 2-meters of travel for low tides. A closer look at the 122’s supercar reveals a rear mounted, 880hp twin-turbo V12 engine with an estimated 233mph top speed. Built from carbon fibre and weighing in at just 2600 lbs., it has a projected 0-60 mph time of 3.2 seconds. The boat itself has an all-glass cockpit with three digital displays for systems monitoring, plus a thermal vision camera for night ops. The stats call for radar and sat domes to deploy from the roof, but this is one of those ‘believe it when you see it’ things. Overall, the bridge deck is a very clean, minimalistic approach to Med life. There are three large sofas to seat 15 players, while aft is a large four-body sun bed. The resplendent salon is entered via individual sweeping staircases to port and starboard and gives you a feel of entering the Waldorf Astoria in the 1920s. Aft of the stairway is a galley with a cozy bar, while to starboard there’s a club dining area. The entire salon can be transformed to a luxury disco with a sophisticated surround sound system from Bang & Olufsen. Towards the front are four double staterooms cabins, each with stunning sea views from elliptical bullet-proof windows that stretch halfway across the hull. At the forepeak are two crew cabins. Greek marble is used throughout the boat with Hexacon lightweight panelling to offset the increased weight of high-end fixtures. But if you want to get your hands on the supercar and its floating garage you’d better hurry. Strand Craft are only producing six of them and they tell us they already have strong interest from five potential buyers. Nothing draws them in better than a ‘freebie’. SO
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Royce Service and Engineering, Rolls-Royce and Bentley Specialists UK
•Sales
•Service
•Parts
•Restorations
Owners of Rolls-Royce and Bentley motor cars demand the highest standards of service and maintenance for their vehicles and we are here to provide just such a service. We pride ourselves in having one of the most experienced Rolls-Royce and Bentley service teams in the UK whose individual skills are complemented by a well-equipped workshop with the latest computer diagnostic equipment.
E SAL FOR
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Rolls-Royce Corniche Convertible 1983, Lagoon Blue with a dark Hood / Magnolia Hide 59000 miles. £49,950.00
Rolls-Royce Corniche Convertible 1A 1976, Garnet with Black Mohair Hood / Black hide interior 95000 miles. £51,950.00
Telephone: 01737 844 999 E-mail: enquiries@royceservice.co.uk
www.royceservice.co.uk Station Road,Betchworth, Surrey, RH3 7BZ
YOUR LOCAL AUDIO & VISUAL SPECIALISTS
• HOME CINEMA • HOME AUTOMATION • INTELLIGENT LIGHTING • SECURITY & ACCESS • PRIVATE DEMO ROOM • SERVING LONDON & THE SOUTH EAST CONTACT US TODAY FOR A DEMONSTRATION AND FREE SITE-VISIT:
01892 860801 www.progressive-av.com
AUGUST 2010
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The inTerior is firsT class for The qualiTy of consTrucTion and The clariTy of design while The accuracy and response of The sTeering and gearbox builds immense e confidence in Th driver. all of which means The audi r8 spyder has The moTive power of a True supercar words MATT JoY
but its greatest trick is doing that for someone spending £15,000 just as well as for someone spending nearly ten times that amount. The r8 broke the rule that supercars have to be made by tiny, specialised manufacturers to be taken seriously. and then they went and made it even better by adding a spunkier ten cylinder engine. and now there’s even more. say hello to the r8 spyder, which adds fresh air fun to the v10’s thrills. Turning the r8 coupe into
the spyder hasn’t sacrificed its good looks either. arguably better looking than the original, the spyder does without the prominent side blades and instead flows neatly into the curvaceous rear. it’s hard not to be a little flash in a low-slung two seater with this much presence, but the spyder avoids being over the top. you’re more likely to meet respect and enthusiasm than outright jealousy - it’s a thing of genuine beauty after all. unlike the coupe, the spyder comes only in full-blooded v10 form. The 5.2-litre unit is similar to that found in the lamborghini gallardo and produces a spectacular 518bhp and 391lb.ft of torque. There’s a choice of transmissions too, with a six-speed manual or six-speed automated manual dubbed r-tronic. either way, the spyder has the motive power of a true supercar augusT 2010
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f audi was an old school friend, it would be one that you catch up with on facebook after 20 years only to find that they’ve done annoyingly well for themselves. slick, successful, desirable and as a result impossible to hate, even though you want to. The truth is that the german firm knows how to push the buttons of potential car buyers.
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and the performance figures to back it up: roof up or down, it will hit a hair-straining 194mph and blast from 0-62mph in only 4.1 seconds. Don’t mistake this docility for dullness though. You can cover hundreds of miles in a single, easy-going stint, and then a slam-dunk of the accelerator will punch you down the road in an instant. Civility takes a back seat to thrills as the V10 engine struts its stuff, bellowing a delicious wail as it tears around to a spectacular 8,700rpm. Flip the right paddle, the R-tronic transmission seamlessly slots in the next gear and the physical assault happens all over again. Punch the Sport button and the Spyder responds even more urgently, sharpening the actions of the gearbox and steering. This is an Audi of course, and such monstrous power can only be distributed through the legendary Quattro four-wheel drive system. That means superb traction whatever the weather, allowing the Spyder to use more of its performance more of the time. The power is also distributed with a heavy bias towards the rear, giving it a feel closer to that of a classic reardrive car but with much greater reassurance. Its surefootedness, plus the accuracy and response of the steering, builds immense confidence in the driver whatever their level of skill; like all the best cars, the Spyder flatters the person behind the wheel. You get plenty more of the standard Audi brand values too. The interior is first class for the quality of construction and the clarity of the design, while the specification isn’t lacking either. The standard Bang & Olufsen audio system will keep you amused should you ever tire of the V10’s music, while features like sat-nav, Nappa leather and heated seats boost the luxury feel. It actually has microphones mounted in the seat belts to allow you to chat on your Bluetooth-connected phone even with the roof down. They really have thought of everything. So, what of the big question then; how much? Well, you might want to be sitting down for this. The six-speed manual version is £111,955 and you can add a further £5,000 for the R-tronic gearbox. But that gets you a largely hand-built, aluminium and carbonfibre supercar that’s stunning to look at, a sensational drive and also easier to live with than some far more humble machinery. The bad news is that the R8 Spyder will be rarer than hen’s teeth, as the allocation for 2010 is already sold out which just goes to show that whatever the cost, quality never goes out of fashion. SO
the facts... Model: Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI R-tronic, £117,155. Engine: 5.2-litre petrol delivering 518bhp and 391lb.ft of torque. Transmission: Six-speed automated manual driving all four wheels. Performance: Top speed 194mph, 0-62mph 4.1 seconds. Economy: 20.3mpg. Emissions: 338g/km.
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INTERVIEW
WORDS DAN SMITH
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number of pristine supercars are dotted around the inside of the new Lamborghini showroom in Sevenoaks, which will serve the majority of prospective Lambo owners in the South. Stephan Winkelmann is on a fleeting trip to the UK and the showroom where we meet is incredibly still - a stark contrast to these powerful machines’ driving personas. In the corner of the room on a sofa, sits the President and CEO of Automobil Lamborghini S.p.A. For sure, it’s a dream job but one that must have been easier before all the economic drama. “We lost sales all over the place,” Mr Winkelmann admits frankly. “It is important not to push cars into the market. We had to adjust production and that is one of the key things in the luxury sector. It’s tough, but at the end of the day to invest in the future you need money from sales. It is picking up and we believe pre-crisis level total sales will be reached again in 2012.” This search for sales may have been one of the reasons Jardine Motors (who also look after dealerships for McLaren, Bentley and Ferrari) decided to open this showroom. Judging by the range currently available the expected 20-25 buyers a year will have a tough time choosing the right model for them. On show, among others, are both the Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni and the awesome LP 570-4 Superleggera, which have each been whittled down to just over 1,300kg in a bid to keep performance and handling as impressive as possible. “We are more and more into the power to weight ratio,” says Stephan Winkelmann. “It is important to use the weight more than to increase the power these days.” Whether this ethos is also born from economic and
Bulls
LAMBORGHINI ESSENTIALLY DEFINES THE TERM SUPERCAR AND FEW MARQUES CONJOUR SUCH IMAGERY OF POWER, STYLE AND SPEED. SO WHEN CEO OF LAMBORGHINI, STEPHAN WINKELMANN, PAID A RARE VISIT TO THE UK WE WENT ALONG FOR A CHAT environmental pressures is uncertain, but when prompted on green issues, and what other companies are doing, the CEO gives what sounds like a well-rehearsed response: “Hybrid cars are on the agenda, as well as reducing friction and better combustion… we have a road map to reduce [carbon emissions] 35 per cent by 2015. “But Lamborghini has only built 24,000 cars since 1963. Maybe half are on the road and never on a daily basis. The average mileage is below 5,000 a year.” The argument is that in the grand scheme of things Lamborghini hasn’t left an enormous carbon footprint. However, surely the time will come when Stephan Winkelmann and Lamborghini will have to face up to the idea that high-performance, combustion based cars have a limited shelf-life. “Nobody knows if cars are going to have the same engines,” he says. “We will look into our road map and what’s happening and adapt strategy. But in 10-15 years, no major changes on these types of cars.” For the time being then, those looking to join the exclusive few able to own such cars will have to ‘make do’ with the various incarnations of the Gallardo and its bigger brother, the Murciélago.. If they’re good enough for Stephan Winkelmann, they’re good enough for us… and he drives a Gallardo Superleggera. SO
AT A GLANCE:
Model: Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera Price: £178,651 0-62mph: 3.4 seconds Top Speed: 202mph Combined Fuel Consumption: 16mpg AUGUST 2010
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The only thing missing is you From relaxing breaks to adventure holidays. Escape the norm and tailormake your best holiday yet. Call us on 01435 866555 to see how. www.thetravelconcept.co.uk email: ask@thetravelconcept.co.uk Holidays to Remember The Travel Concept is a trading name of The Freedom Travel Group Limited registered in England and Wales with registered number 3816981. VAT NO. 403 3146 04. Registered ofďŹ ce: New Centry House, Manchester, M60 4ES. Head OfďŹ ce: Hamil Road, Burslem, Stoke on Trent ST6 1AJ. The Freedom Travel Group Limited is part of the Co-Operative Group Limited. *Terms and conditions apply
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OUR ROUND UP OF SOME OF THE BEST NEW STAGE AND THEATRE SHOWS TAKING PLACE IN SURREY AND THE CAPITAL THIS MONTH
Bedroom Farce
What? Four couples, three bedrooms, two celebrations, one blazing row and an illicit kiss (or two). Bedroom Farce is a hilarious look at the intimate and public relationships of eight grown adults. Where? New Victoria Theatre, Woking When? Monday August 2 to Saturday August 7 Web? ambassadortickets.com/woking
5 Children and It
What? When five mischievous children discover the Psammead, a Sand Fairy with the marvellous ability to make wishes come true, their adventures – and their troubles – are just beginning. Performed by the Yvonne Arnaud Youth Theatre. Where? Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, Guildford When? Thursday August 12 to Saturday August 14 Web? yvonne-arnaud.co.uk
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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 Whpool at? house, Shakespeare ’s a tennis court and a barn-style four bay garage. famed com edy and per haps his only pla y to deal exclfront-facing Built in 1908, the property features twin usively with Elizabethan era E gable extensions, creating an impressive façade, nglish midd le class life. Sironto Johnthe while the grounds of Sandyknowe back land Fals taff attemp ts to wooborders two loveofrs w of Losely Park. Mature woodland lines the ith an identical love the property and extensive gardens stretch into the letter; the plan fails w ith hand distance – this is truly a classic Surrey country pad umorous consequence s. one which defines the word picturesque. Where? Sh akespeare’s Globe, Lond on Entering the house you’re treated to more than When? Satu enough rday August 14 space as well. Once through the impressive to Saturdfront ay Octdoor, ober 2 Web you immediately find yourself in the reception hall, ? shakespea resone of the largest areas in the house. It’s a particularly globe.org
Merry ives of WindsoW r
grandiose spectacle and one in which you could
The Tempest easily imagine greeting guests for a summer party,
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What? An open-air of Shakespeare’s The Tempest performed or production evening’s entertainment. by the Guildford Shakespeare Company, their second production of the Summer of 2010. Starring Bill Ward. Doors from the hall lead into the west wing, where a Where? University of Surrey Lake, Guildford large drawing room overlooks a set of stone steps When? Now until Saturday 7 August that drop down into the garden. Off the back of the Web? guildford-shakespeare-company.co.uk AUGUST 2 0 1 0
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Red Helicopter
What? After society spirals out of control, 16-year-old Daddy becomes the ruthless ruler of a small, surviving society in an abandoned London office. His methods for control and order are essentially violence, superstition and fear. Where? The Almeida Theatre, London When? Saturday August 7, three performances. Web? almeida.co.uk
Prisoner of Second Avenue
Danton’s Death
What? After a series of bloody purges during the French Revolution, volatile Danton is tormented by his part in the killing. His political rival, Robespierre, decides Danton’s fate and a titanic struggle begins. Once friends who wanted to change the world, now one stands for compromise, the other for ideological purity as the guillotine awaits. Where? The National Theatre, London When? Now until Thursday October 14 Web? nationaltheatre.org.uk
What? Set in the 1970s, a black comedy depicting a New York couple, Mel (Jeff Goldblum) and Edna Edison (Mercedes Ruehl), enduring the trials of city life. Mel is made redundant and the stress of an economic crisis and urban life pushes him into having a nervous breakdown Where? Old Vic Theatre, London When? Now until Saturday September 11 Web? oldvictheatre.com
Oklahoma!
What? The final project of a week-long intensive training program for local youths aged between 10-18. A couple of young cowboys win the hearts of their sweethearts in turn of the century USA, despite the interference of an evil ranch hand and a roaming peddler. Where? The Electric Theatre, Guildford When? Saturday August 14 Web? electrictheatre.co.uk
Metamorphoses
What? Mortals mingle with gods and nature in Ovid’s Metamorphoses and some of the best-loved characters from the 2,000-year-old poem mingle with some lesser known heroes and heroines in this exciting new adaptation, performed by the Yvonne Arnaud Youth Theatre. Where? The Mill Theatre at Yvonne Arnaud, Guildford When? Thursday August 12 to Saturday August 14 Web? yvonne-arnaud.co.uk
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IN TUNE
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POP, ROCK, INDIE AND A LITTLE BIT OF SOUL... WHAT’S HOT AND WHAT’S NOT FROM THE WORLD OF MUSIC Kylie Minogue - Aphrodite
Kylie is back. If she’d gone off your radar recently, new single All The Lovers, a stellar performance at Glastonbury and new album Aphrodite have reminded us why we love the pop princess. Produced by Stuart Price - famous for his work with Madonna - this new offering is everything we expect from Kylie. It’s catchy dance pop that will have you up on the dance floor in seconds. All The Lovers, as we know, sticks in your head with its upbeat chorus. Title track Aphrodite is sexy, sassy Kylie. Everything Is Beautiful offers a more sedate option, and Too Much is a great and uplifting dance track. Some critics may knock the predictable sound of Kylie’s floor-fillers, but anyone who likes a good pop tune will love Aphrodite.
Kula Shaker - Pilgrims Progress
Psychedelic rockers and Britpop heroes Kula Shaker return with their fourth album after an absence of three years. The Indian-influenced four-piece from London have tried and, so far, failed to build on the success of K, which was the fastestselling debut album of 1996. Outspoken frontman Crispian Mills has taken the band in a more mellow direction on tracks such as All Dressed Up, Cavalry and Ruby. Despite that, fans of the old sound will be pleased to know that Modern Blues and Figure It Out are more like the 1990’s Kula Shaker.
The Flaming Lips, Stardeath And White Dwarfs The Dark Side Of The Moon
Wayne Coyne, frontman for the Flaming Lips, has long been one of rock’s more mysterious performers and his decision to cover Pink Floyd’s Dark Side Of The Moon ranks as one of the bravest decisions of the year. The original 1973 release is consistently hailed as one of the finest albums ever made and has sold more than 45 million copies, but fans may be disappointed by this version. One of the original’s most familiar tracks, Money, is ruined by the overuse of vocal effects, and the choice of Peaches to provide the female vocals will not be to everyone’s taste. So, while Coyne and Co. can be commended for putting an original twist on one of the alltime greats, they should perhaps focus on their own material in the future.
Macy Gray - The Sellout
Bristling with earthy energy and euphoric melodies, Macy Gray’s latest album is certainly a crowd-pleaser. Featuring collaborations with everyone from Bobby Brown, Duff McKagan of Guns N’ Roses, Matt Sorum formerly of Velvet Revolver, The Bodyrockers’ Kaz James, and Slash, the songs are varied, both in style and quality. Listen out for the opening number Beauty In the World which has a folktinged, gospel sound, That Man (Ting Tings inspired) and The Comeback whose furious and emotional tone brings the album to a soaring close. While not every song makes its case (On and On is a suitable title for a dreary non-song) those that do are fantastic. Macy certainly sounds more like a modern soul diva than she has in recent years. AUGUST 2010
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GUILDFORD
Secret Guildford
WORDS NICK WOODROOF
Dennis the Menace OUR TRAWL THROUGH THE ARCHIVES THIS MONTH REVEALS A BRUSH WITH THE LAW THAT LEAD TO A GUILDFORD MAN CREATING THAT MOST FAMOUS OF BRIGHT RED VEHICLES WITH FLASHING LIGHTS
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t’s fair to say that John Dennis, and his younger brother Raymond, were inventive. Together, they made a living selling bicycles in Guildford from 1895 till the turn of the century. Their bestknown line was the ‘Speed King’ and ‘Speed Queen’. However, they soon began pushing the boundaries.
Always eager to try out his creations, the elder Dennis once fell foul of a local police sergeant. In July 1899 he attempted to use a motorised tricycle to ascend the steep Guildford High Street. Sergeant William Hall, standing on Priory Street, was surprised by the speed of the machine travelling up the hill and pursued it on foot but in vain. Believing the inventor to have committed a criminal offence, Sergeant Hall took John Dennis to court, accusing him of driving at a speed of “at least 16mph.” Although the court decided that it could not be proved that Dennis went at the alleged speed, they did fine him 20 shillings ( £70 in today’s money) on account of his ‘‘furious driving.” John Dennis, not wanting the incident to mar his good reputation, turned events to his advantage by making light of the incident; he proudly claimed in subsequent advertisements that his machines could climb Guildford High Street ‘‘at 16mph, on the sworn testimony of a constable.” Realising what motorised vehicles were capable of, and eager to exploit their growing popularity over bicycles, John Dennis founded Dennis Bros. Ltd and moved the business to a factory on the corner of Onslow Street and Bridge Street. John and Raymond’s first commercially available car was
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launched in 1902, with their first bus following a year later. It wasn’t until 1908, though, that the brothers produced the vehicle for which they are most famous; the Dennis fire engine. The machine proved to be highly profitable and as well as popping up in fire stations throughout Britain, it was used in places across the world such as Brisbane, Barbados and Cairo.
Victorian Const able
Raymond and John Dennis both died in 1939 although the business they started continues to flourish and is still manufacturing fire engines, buses and waste collection vehicles. So, if you hear the shrill noise of a fire engine’s siren or see one thunder past you, it will probably bear the name of one of Guildford’s more interesting sons – Dennis.
AUGUST 2010
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GUILDFORD
SO G UIL D FO R D
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YOU R
NEW
LIFE MAG STYLE AZIN E
T HE EXC LUSI VE M AGA Z I NE FO R A N EXC LUS IV E TOWN
LEONARDO DICAPRIO
ON BECOMING A DREAM MAN
THE GREAT R8 AUDI GOES TOPLESS IN SUPERB STYLE
FASHION FRILLS
THE ART OF ACCESSORISING
COUNTRY LIFE
INSIDE A TRULY IDYLLIC SHERE FARMHOUSE
SMART SURREY
WHERE THE CLEVER MONEY IS BEING INVESTED
AUGUST 2010 £1.50 WWW.SOGUILDFORD.CO.UK
ISS UE 3
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