So Guildford Dec10

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WIN LAPLAND FAMILY TICKETS

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FROCK PARTY

HOW TO TURN HEADS THIS SEASON

AWESOME AUDI BAGS OF ATTITUDE FROM NEW COUPE

SURREY DINING WHAT’S HAPPENED TO FRENCH CUISINE

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CHERYL COLE WHAT MAKES HER THE MOST TALKED ABOUT WOMAN IN BRITAIN

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+HOOR There’s only one way to start this issue – Merry Christmas! And have we got a package of goodies to get you in the festive mood. To help you look great during the party season we’ve got all the sparkle, shimmer and shine with ideas on everything from cocktail dresses to perfect tresses. One person who probably doesn’t need our help to wow the crowds with her stunning looks is our cover celebrity Cheryl Cole. What makes her the most talked about woman in Britain with a current worth of £10million? That means she’s more than able to buy two or three of the time pieces featured in our Top Ten list of the world’s most expensive watches. One of them sold for almost £7million. And if smoked salmon is among the delights you’ll be sampling while dining at Buckingham Palace or Windsor Castle this festive season you’ll find it comes from Guildford. Yes, we’re known worldwide for our smoked salmon! Also pretty well known, at least in this region, is La Barbe restaurant in Reigate which served its first meal 27 years ago. We send one of our foodies along to find out how it’s managed to stay the course. On the home front, we take a peek inside the modernist, family property overlooking the Wey Valley that leads a double life; it’s also an art gallery. And we visit an exciting new development just a mile from Guildford town centre. To round off the package, we hear about the Winter when the Big Freeze bought Guildford to a stand still for months, we take a ride in the new Audi coupé which has bags of attitude and there’s the chance to win a fabulous family day out to see Father Christmas at LaplandUK. Pour the mulled wine, sit back and savour the moment.

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THIS CHRISTMAS‌ What to see, visit and buy during this festive season. How about a snow shovel on a huge wheel?

THE LETTERS Our Christmas Gift Guide puts husbands in something of a dilemma and there’s praise for the Heroes Welcome scheme.

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THE NEWS

COLE FOR CHRISTMAS She’s the most talked about woman in Britain, but just what is it about Cheryl Cole that keeps people hungry for more?

TIME OUT What’s on your wrist? Our count down of the world’s Top Ten most expensive watches, collectively worth a cool £12million.

Surrey Sports Park is involved in a turf war and the debate over hospital parking rumbles on.

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WIN!

Family tickets to visit Father Christmas at LaplandUK are up for grabs. They’re worth £500.

THE SECRET Chilling tales from the winter of 62/63 when Guildford ground to a halt in the Big Freeze.

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shimmer and shine you’ll need this Christmas season.

PARTY TIME From cocktail dresses to perfect tresses, we’ve got all the sparkle,

Stay looking younger without the need for surgery. And there’s special discount for our readers!

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BON APPETIT

SMOKED OUT

FASHION INSIDER How you can contribute to charity and stay on trend plus the ultimate tux and presentopening attire.

BEAUTY BEFORE AGE

If you think French cuisine is all about stuffy sommeliers and menus that read like a thesis you need to visit this Reigate restaurant.

Meet the man putting Guildford on the world map with his award-winning smoked salmon.

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MODERN LIVING We join Linden Homes for a tour of their exciting new development just a mile from Guildford town centre.

LIGHTER MOMENTS Time to create a welcoming cosy home for those cold wintry evenings.

We find out about the long and the short of Day Trading in the third of our special finance features.

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ART HOUSE The home that Annabel and Chris Agace created overlooking the Wey Valley leads a double life. It’s also an art gallery.

INVESTING

ON STAGE There’s more than panto to attract your attention in December. Check out our guide to some of the best productions.

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NICE RS The new RS 5 certainly talks the talk, but can it walk the walk and live up to the original Quattro, one of the finest Audis ever?

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Head OfďŹ ce, Studio Six, Sussex Mews The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5QJ Tel: 01892 616 103 soguildford.co.uk Publishing Director Nick Moore nick@magazinepeople.co.uk Editorial Director Richard Moore FRSA richard@magazinepeople.co.uk Head of Design Jodie Hulse jodie@magazinepeople.co.uk Designer Erica Price erica@magazinepeople.co.uk Publishing Assistant Phil Glover phil@magazinepeople.co.uk Senior Writer Melissa Woodland melissa@magazinepeople.co.uk Writer Dan Smith dan@magazinepeople.co.uk Deputy Advertisement Manager Amy Lawson amy@magazinepeople.co.uk Sales Executive Jordanne Reville jordanne@magazinepeople.co.uk Contributors Georgina Stevens Valerie Thacker Matt Joy Lisa Haynes Will Lawrence

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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:RYHO« It seems far less than a year ago that the South East ground to a halt after a number of heavy snow storms. Arguably, we might all have fared better had we been the proud owners of a fleet of Sno Wovels – the device hailed as the world’s safest snow shovel. But don’t take our word for it, because the rather Victorian-looking device has apparently won TIME magazine’s ‘Innovation of the Year Award’, so it’s far from old fashioned. Simply dig in the blade, lift the snow, and cart it (or fling it) away. The Sno Wovel costs just over £130, see wovel.co.uk for details.

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Ever felt your tree deserves more from its crowning decoration? If so, check out these truly lavish rustic tin stars. Made from reclaimed metal, they’re decorated and then stressed to give them that worn look. Simply adorn with fairy lights and you’ve instantly got a festive classic. Available in 12”, 22” and huge 44” sizes there’s one for every tree size. The stars range from £25 to £115, see notonthehighstreet.com

(QMR\« When it comes to classic festive tales, A Christmas Carol stands head and shoulders about the rest. This specially adapted version, performed by the Bramley Players, will be staged from Wednesday December 8 to Saturday December 11 at the Electric Theatre in Guildford. It’s sure to scare, enchant and inspire at this most magical time of year. Family tickets are £30, to book visit electrictheatre.co.uk

4XDII« Join the likes of Tsar Alexander II, Winston Churchill and Kind George V this festive season by enjoying a little Louis XIII Cognac. It takes four generations of Cellar Masters to create a single decanter of Louis XIII, named after the French King who first recognised Cognac as a distinct type of brandy. This £1,500 ‘King of Cognac’, produced by Remy Martin, has legendary length, lasting on the palate for up to an hour with notes of myrrh, plum, honey, sandalwood, honeysuckle, passion fruit and lily. Available from Harrods, Selfridges and Harvey Nichols.

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3HUXVH The historic manor house Loseley Park in Guildford is opening to the public for Festive Family Sundays, specially organised days to celebrate the Christmas build-up. As well as the chance to buy gifts in the artisan shop, Children will have the opportunity to meet Father Christmas in the Victorian stables, along with donkeys, sheep and calves. Carol singers are confirmed for December 5 & 12, and if you’re feeling peckish, mulled wine, a hog roast, chestnuts, soup and Christmas cake will be on sale. There will also be a traditional nativity scene, reminding us of the story behind it all. See loselypark.co.uk

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Listen to This is the ideal book for anyone who’s truly passionate about music. In the words of the author, Alex Ross, it’s a “panoramic view of the musical scene, from Bach to Björk and beyond”. Ross essentially aims to portray music as a way of explaining the world and society, rather than being distinct from it, and hints at how the influence of the classical masters is still prevalent in pop today. With chapters on how the history of music can be told through base lines and the impact of technology on modern music, it’s an enthralling read for audiophiles. Available for £17.50 from Waterstones, Guildford.

Every girl needs a little gem in her wardrobe that will lift her outfit from ‘so-so’ to ‘wow’. It may be a pair of killer heels to make you feel red carpet ready or a bejewelled cuff that dazzles with every move of your wrist. Designer Fiona Paxton’s new range for House of Fraser has harnessed that need to create a series of stellar pieces guaranteed to impress. Throw this gold chain ‘Bib’ necklace on over even the simplest of black trouser/top combos and you’ll be ready to hit the town. Gold chain ‘Bib’ necklace £260, Fiona Paxton for House of Fraser, High Street, Guildford.

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In our opinion, Inception is a near perfect film. If you didn’t catch it on the big screen over the Summer, make sure you pick it up on Blu-ray this Christmas. With an excellent cast led by Leonardo DiCaprio, the story follows Dom Cobb, an ‘extractor’ whose job it is to steal secrets from people by entering their minds while they dream. On the run from the US government, Cobb is finally offered the chance to go home when he’s hired by a wealthy Japanese businessman to attempt ‘inception’ – planting an idea in someone’s mind, rather than stealing it. Gripping and heartbreaking in equal measures, this is a must-see. £17.99 from hmv.com DECEMBER 2010

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$SSUHFLDWH« Local charity, Street Child Africa, will benefit from a special Christmas concert held at Guildford Cathedral on Saturday December 11. The carol service, led by Guildford’s Cathedral Choir and children from local schools is called One Voice and aims to raise consciousness and funds for the plight of homeless children across the continent. For tickets, see guildfordcathedral.org/worship/boxoffice or call 01483 547 870. For more information on Street Child Africa, visit streetchildafrica.org.uk

/LVWHQ« Two year’s after she took the pop world by storm, Duffy now returns with her second studio album. On Endlessly, Duffy will no doubt once more entertain us with more sixties charm and her trademark sultry tones. If it’s anywhere near as successful as Rockferry, her debut album (which sold 6.5million copies), it’ll be a fine Christmas for the Welsh lass. Around £10 from HMV in Guildford and Woking.

3DQWR« It wouldn’t be Christmas time without a trip to the Pantomime, so make sure you catch Sleeping Beauty at the Yvonne Arnaud in Guildford, between Friday December 3 and Sunday January 9. Starring Boyzone’s Shane Lynch as Prince Charming and Cbeebies’ Sarah-Jane Honeywell, this classic fairytale features more Christmas magic than you can shake a wand at. Tickets start at £15.50, available from yvonne-arnaud.co.uk

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%XUQ« One of the country’s most celebrated Winter solstice festivals, Burning the Clocks, takes place just down the road in Brighton and attracts more than 20,000 people. If you haven’t enjoyed the night’s entertainment before, get involved on Tuesday December 21. It’s well worth a trip. With a procession of lanterns and costumes made from willow canes and white tissue, it’s as surreal as it is magical and the carnival atmosphere is one of the best in Brighton’s impressive calendar. See burningtheclocks.co.uk for details.

1RPLQDWH« This is the time of year when we are most likely to think of others, such as the 1,500 children diagnosed with cancer each year in the UK. Thanks to the work of charities like Cancer Research UK, three quarters survive, compared to the 1960s statistics of one in four. To recognise the incredible battles many children face Cancer Research UK have launched Little Stars, an award that sees each nominated child receive a chrome trophy and a certificate, signed by one of a host of stars from the worlds of TV, music and sport. Below Konnie Huq, Andy Akinwolere and Stacey Solomon are joined by Eastenders actors with some of last years little stars. To nominate someone you know, email littlestar@cancer. org.uk or visit cancerresearchuk.org/littlestar

:RQGHU« In the biggest park in London you can visit what has to be the biggest Christmas themed outing in the country. Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is a truly spectacular Winter celebration, with London’s largest ice rink, a giant observation wheel, circuses and continental food and drink stalls. Entrance is free, but attractions cost from £4.50 for kids and £8 for adults. To book in advance visit hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

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LETTERS

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LETTER OF THE MONTH Sir, How refreshing it was to receive two pieces of good news in the same week. First there was the release, unharmed, of Paul and Rachel Chandler after more than a year in the hands of Somalian pirates. This was followed by the news that we are to have a Royal wedding with the announced engagement of Prince William and Kate Middleton. What a change in this time of seemingly non-stop cutbacks and negative headlines.

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Marian Jenkins Guildford

Ed: Maybe the Chandlers will get an invite to the wedding if they’re not already back on the high seas.

manage to carve in time for Halloween. Simply delicious. Karen Lawson Esher Ed: Happy to be of service.

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(G 1H[W WLPH ZH KHDU KH·V JRLQJ WR EH SOD\LQJ WDEOH WHQQLV XQGHUZDWHU Sir, I just wanted to write in to say how good the pumpkin soup was last month (Seasoned Approach, November). Steve Drake’s recipe was the perfect way to use up the pumpkins that my children didn’t D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 0

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7+( 1(:6« OUR MONTHLY LOOK AT SOME OF THE STORIES MAKING THE HEADLINES SHOP TALK

Photo courtesy Sports Turf, Amenity & Leisure

TURF WAR

Surrey Sports Park is immersed in a pitched battle. Their groundsman, Iain Main, who is responsible for the facilities at the University of Surrey is going up against his equivalent at Manchester United to win the title Groundsman of the Year. The grass expert, who recently celebrated 25 years’ service at the Park, has prepared pitches for international sporting events such as the Women’s Rugby World Cup. His pitches have won plaudits from both players and industry bodies including the International Rugby Board. He will be up against four other peers for the Institute of Groundsmanship award and the winner will be announced in Swansea just before Christmas.

Retail therapy in Guildford is about to get a facelift. The owners of the town’s Friary Centre have unveiled a multimillion pound development plan to reconfigure the shopping destination. Hermes Real Estate and Westfield hope to merge smaller stores to create five large format spaces with a view to attracting multi-national retailers. Ben Tolhurst from Hermes says: “These plans outline our vision for The Friary. By carrying out these works we are opening up the opportunity for leading UK retailers to take modern space within Guildford where they are currently not represented due to the space restrictions of the town centre.”

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At last it’s been confirmed that a cat nap is good for you; that is, if you’re in advanced years. University of Surrey experts have released a new study suggesting older people should not feel bad about dropping off during the day. It can in fact raise energy levels and increase activity. University researcher Susan Venn says:“sleep is central to health and wellbeing, but as people get older, the quality of their sleep can deteriorate. They shouldn’t feel guilty or think themselves lazy for having a nap.”

SCRABBLED BRAIN

Godalming native Lorna Foster certainly has a way with words. The spelling wiz has beaten off thousands of Scrabble fiends to once again become the national champion. A member of Godalming Townswomen’s Guild, Ms Foster (64) has competed in the national competition for the past four years, winning the title for the first time in 2007. Over 34,000 scrabble fans competed in the annual tournament, which is organised by the Townswomen’s Guild.

BANG ON

If you’re after a good banger to accompany your mash, look no further than butcher Maurice Jones & Son. The family-run Weybridge firm has just scooped the London and South East regional award at the British Sausage Week Star Sausage Competition, beating ten other finalists. The recipe for the ‘Oatlands Special Sausage’ is a closely guarded secret, containing five mystery herbs and 70 to 80 percent pork. It is one of the butchers’ top sellers.

READY SALTED

Surrey might have ground to a halt during last Winter’s severe weather conditions, but the County Council is determined it’ll be better prepared this year. County Hall came under fire from residents and businesses in January when roads went ungritted and waste collections ceased following heaving snow and freezing temperatures. Preparations for this Winter are well underway; fifty percent more salt has been ordered, meaning an extra 21miles of road will be regularly gritted and a further 27 farmers have been recruited to help with their ploughs. South East 4x4 Club’s 90 volunteers will also be on hand to transport people as necessary.

ROAD RAGE

The parking debate at the Royal Surrey County Hospital rumbles on. Though officials have apologised to both staff and patients about the chaos the new colourcoded permit system has created, it appears that the situation is yet to improve. Originally designed to encourage staff to use park and ride or car share, the scheme has failed to change parking habits. On particularly busy days, medical staff have abandoned attempts to park and returned home. Staff have been charged up to £240 for a parking permit, yet remain unable to park near the hospital. One doctor says “there is a great deal of bad feeling about how this has been handled”. DECEMBER 2010

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WORDS DAN SMITH

NOTHING DIVIDES THE NATION QUITE THE SAME AS CHERYL COLE. LIKE MARMITE, YOU EITHER LOVE HER OR HATE HER. BUT ONE THING’S FOR SURE, YOU CAN’T IGNORE HER. AS SHE ONCE AGAIN DOMINATES THE MUSIC CHARTS, WE ASK: WHAT LIES BEHIND THE CHERYL COLE PHENOMENON?

She always wanted to be a singer and – having entered numerous beauty competitions and talent shows as a teenager – finally struck gold when she won a place in Girls Aloud, the pop group formed on Popstars: The Rivals, the 2002 reality TV show. The girl group would dominate the UK charts for almost ten years, with a string of 20 consecutive top ten hits, mirroring the success of The Spice Girls in the previous decade. With Cheryl as the natural front girl, it wasn’t long before she was hot property in the eyes of the media. Her 2006 marriage to one of the country’s top footballers, Ashley Cole, only further cemented her fame. Today, Cheryl is an ad man’s dream, with numerous endorsement contracts including L’Oreal, Barbie, Nintendo

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and Samsung. With her own solo career and a number one selling single and album, she’s also a judge on Simon Cowell’s The X Factor and is worth more than £10million. But the woman who was voted FHM’s Sexiest Woman in the World still divides opinion. Express your thoughts on the 27-year-old Geordie in a room full of people and, no matter who they are, you’re sure to get some form of impassioned response. It’s even been a topic of furious contention here in the So office. (This is issue 33 of the magazine and we have talked about having her on the cover since issue 22.) There are people who adore her and staunchly defend ‘the nation’s new sweetheart’, saying she’s a hugely talented singer and universally-loved TV personality. Then again there are those who just don’t get it and merely see a career built on savvy PR. Like her or not, everyone has an opinion on Cheryl Cole. “It’s my reality,” she said recently of her life. “But to other people it’s their entertainment.” One person who’s in part responsible for her meteoric rise to fame is Simon Cowell. Since the early days he’s been a strong proponent of her work as a recording artist and TV

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o understand what’s turned Cheryl (Tweedy) Cole into one of the biggest names in Britain today, you need to understand her background. Born and raised on a council estate in Newcastle upon Tyne, she came from a working class family. Her parents split up when she was 11 and Cheryl was brought up largely by her mother, Joan, to whom she remains close.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES

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“Simon is one of the most important people in my life,” she told Piers Morgan on her highly publicised ITV interview. “One, he changed my life, but most importantly he gets it. He gets me like nobody else and I’ve never met anybody like that before.” The man himself said: “She’s got a great heart, Cheryl. That’s why people like her.” And, regarding her position as a judge on The X Factor he’s revealed: “I knew she was going to be good because she speaks like normal people speak. People can relate to that. And I think that is the best sign of a judge.” Cowell knows television as good as anyone and understands that it’s this ‘normality’ that’s seen her rise to the peak of stardom. Sure, she’s a talented performer. Yes, behind her is an incredible PR machine, but take away her likeability and personality, and there would be no Cheryl Cole. She’s the new “People’s Princess” because she’s one of them. She’s the nation’s sweetheart because, whether you like it or not, she personifies the nation. The high regard in which she’s held – maybe ‘adored’ is a better word – has never been more evident than earlier this year when her troubled relationship with Ashley Cole came to an end.

Since 2008 rumors and allegations regarding his apparent infidelity with a number of women had been circulated in the media, culminating in the pair splitting in February 2010. Cheryl filed for divorce in May and the British public and press alike voiced their unequivocal support for the singer. They identified with her and what she was going through. “When your heart’s breaking, your heart’s breaking,” she said recently. “It makes no difference what either of you do.” As the nation rallied behind her, speculating whether Cheryl would find happiness with either one of two men she is linked with (rapper Will.i.am of Black Eyed Peas fame and Derek Hough, the professional dancer), she was struck down with a mystery illness. In July, while holidaying in Tanzania with Derek Hough, Cheryl contracted a deadly strain of the infectious disease Malaria. On her return to the UK she collapsed after a Vogue photo shoot. In a move that some speculate may have saved his friend’s life, Hough urged her to seek medical advice. “He’s an amazing, amazing person,” she told Piers Morgan. “I can never repay him for that… it’s my life.” Her condition became so bad that at her lowest point she was informed by doctors that she might not pull through. “I was just so weak and sick I was actually thinking: if it’s going to happen, please hurry up.” Her face was so swollen that her mother could barely see her DECEMBER 2010

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personality, hiring her as a judge on the fifth series of The X Factor in June 2008.

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eyes, she had no kidney functions and her organs were beginning to shut down. The nation held its breath for the most talked about woman in the country. “You wouldn’t believe the support I’ve had from the public,” she said later. “And it makes me strong.” Slowly, she began to recover and today declares she feels 95 per cent healthy. With a chart topping album, a No.1 selling single and her reclaimed place on The X Factor panel alongside Simon Cowell, Danni Minogue and Louis Walsh she’s looking forward to starting 2011 afresh. And so, to answer our initial question: What lies behind the Cheryl Cole phenomenon? She’s a talented, attractive young woman who is (and this is most important) a down-to-earth, honest ‘girl next door’ who carries herself with dignity. A nice person!

Cheryl Cole By Numbers Tattoos: 4 Chihuahuas: 2 Height: 5ft 3ins Measurements: 34-23-33 Solo Albums: 2

Worth: £10million Siblings: 3 Divorces: 1 Breast Implants: 0 Media stories per day: 50

Cheryl Cole In her own words: “When you’re going through stuff or turmoil, whatever, I don’t wake up in the morning and think, ‘the world loves me’. Nah!” “I tend to shop mostly online because I feel like the whole thing of shopping is actually really stressful. Just the lighting in dressing rooms makes you feel depressed.” “I don’t think I’m a style icon.” “I absolutely love my tattoos. The girls and I decided that the next time Girls Aloud have a No. 1, we’ll all get one done.” “It’s got to the point now where the pap (photographers) are intimidating… it’s not fun anymore.” “I’m still a person, I’m still getting divorced… it hurts, it’s embarrassing, it’s life.” “If there’s a party I’ll be there. That’s what I’m all about.” “I’m not saintly at all. I do have a toughness. That’s what’s embedded in us, to be tough.” “Footballers wives are just as bad as benefit scroungers. These women have nannies, they don’t cook or clean, and never do a day’s work. What kind of aspiration is that?” “Don’t show my feet, don’t put the camera on my feet. A lot of people have foot fetishes, but they wouldn’t have them over mine.”

DECEMBER 2010

“FOOTBALLERS’ WIVES ARE JUST AS BAD AS BENEFIT SCROUNGERS. THESE WOMEN HAVE NANNIES, THEY DON’T COOK OR CLEAN, AND NEVER DO A DAY’S WORK. WHAT KIND OF ASPIRATION IS THAT?”

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

Penguin Suit It’s not just the ladies who make an effort during the party season. There’s plenty for the gents to splash out on too, from tailored shirts in bold colours to sparkling cufflinks and shiny dress shoes. But the key purchase has to be a good tuxedo. Find a well-made, formfitting evening suit and it’ll see you through many a fundraiser or cocktail hour. Tuxedo from £400, Jaeger Man, High Street, Guildford.

Early Riser Begin Christmas morning in style and treat yourself to some sophisticated sleepwear. A pair of tactile satin pyjamas or an elegant silk robe is the perfect attire for present opening time. We love this grown-up cream number from Myla. Angelica robe £329, myla.com

Gone Fishing Previously a spa treat found only in luxurious holiday resorts, Garra Spa Fish Pedicures have come to Champneys in Guildford. During the 30 minute treatment, the 125 ‘Doctor Fish’ seek out and remove dead skin, bacteria and calluses while rejuvenating healthy skin. And don’t worry, the fish don’t have any teeth! Garra Spa fish treatment £25, Champneys, High Street, Guildford. So Guildford readers can take advantage of an introductory offer; simply bring a friend with you to have the fish pedicure at the same time and pay just £40 for both treatments.

Kiss Kiss If you buy one new accessory this year, make sure it’s one of the Lips bags by Lulu Guinness. Her latest collection of iconic bags includes 25 different versions of the hero piece, from the star-spangled US flag to jewel encrusted studs to metallic snakeskin. To stand out from the crowd choose a neon bright edition, but for a goes-with-everything clutch, you can’t beat the black snakeskin. Selected Lulu Guinness bags available House of Fraser, High Street, Guildford.

Charity Style We love it when you can look good at the same time as doing good, which is why this limited edition charm bracelet from Alex Monroe is on my Christmas list. To celebrate the launch of Midomo - a revolutionary water purifier for developing countries - Red Button Design has commissioned the piece from the jewellery designer Monroe. Each bracelet (£265) will cover the cost of donating one Midomo to an African community and, through a unique serial number imprinted on the jewellery, the owner of each bracelet will be able to track the journey of their donated Midomo. Buy online at midomobracelet.org DECEMBER 2010

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IT’S TIME TO DITCH THE DRAB AND GO FOR THE GLAM. THE PARTY SEASON IS UPON US AND IT’S THE ONE TIME OF YEAR THAT WE ACTUALLY NEED A FEW SEQUINS IN OUR LIVES WORDS MELISSA WOODLAND

/HW·V Ivory ‘Cher’ gown £595 Anoushka G, House of Fraser, High Street, Guildford

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terfly, hether you’re a social but the r, we llflo wa g or a retirin month of December is rich ss to with opportunities to dre typar g tin impress. But get It’s a ut the glittering threads. abo t jus not ready is ad ahe ul rha ove le sty a to chance to treat yourself . mas excesses. of the onslaught of Christ

Embellished dress £135, Monsoon, High Street, Guildford

ss; a cutting-edge jump That trusty Little Black Dre rt/top combo; whatever suit; or a co-ordinating ski perfect look for you the your party-style, there’s this Christmas.

Dress by Herve Leger, £975, cruisefashion.co.uk

ty piece - the cocktail Starting with the go-to par tapestry of colour and rich dress – shop rails are a ies-inspired drop-waist texture right now. Twent letic or petit builds, shifts look fabulous on ath hts - traditional black especially with opaque tig it safe or a vibrant jewel y nylons if you want to pla nd out. This embellished colour if you’d rather sta (top right) has a timeless number from Monsoon quality to it. le will nip in all the Curvy? A wrap-around sty e your best assets right places and accentuat l daring, the body-con (try Coast), or if you fee , from the favoured ion look is still a great opt ss to the strapless dre e dag Herve Leger ban bandeau dress.

Dress £150, Coast, Millbrook, Guildford

ts 0’s trend is one that sui And A/W’s favoured 196 or ate cre to skirted dress most people. Pick a full . ves highlight cur

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on, the Summer’s maxi For a more formal occasi tops flow into multi dress goes luxe. Bodice r . Keep the shape of you layered floor-length skirts . ure fig r you ing mp swa id maxi form-fitting to avo Isadora £100, Kurt Geiger, White Lion Walk, Guildford

Jewelled shoe £105, office.co.uk

Jumpsuit £65, lipsy.co.uk

Dress £130 Phase Eight, High Street, Guildford

Shoes £79, office.co.uk

Shearling coat £999, Hobbs, High Street, Guildford

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already, you may If your social diary is full can dress up or want something that you u jumpsuit is a down. Lipsy’s black bandea el-encrusted jew h versatile option; try it wit ual after cas a for rf sca flats and a chiffon ng stilettos and a work drink, or with toweri look. chain belt for an edgier ptable party pieces Of course, the most ada sets and blouses are separates; tunics, cor h any number of which can be teamed wit gs. Go for a hero gin skirts, trousers and leg d skirt from ere lay ple piece like this pur ha wit it ar we and Phase Eight ht). rig low (be top me hro monoc

Dress £195, Coast, Millbrook, Guildford

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the rule for cocktail The bigger the better is m statement rings gems this Christmas. Fro fs, bling is most cuf to diamond encrusted it’s important not , ver we Ho definitely still in. it yourself to one to overdo the frosting. Lim rings and a ear or two pieces – diamond ng ring, not osi imp an dazzling pendant or e! Earrings £960, everything at onc

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Embellished cuff £12, Accessorize, The Friary, Guildford Black stone ring £695, Pandora, High Street, Guildford

ss £159, noli.com Silk Georgette Bustier Dre

r arrival/ And when it comes to you invest in a to get for ’t departure, don ear. It might not be frivolous item of outerw shearling jacket as ite practical to have a wh you’ll only be but t, your every day coa i and the venue, tax the en we wearing it bet ing that’s a bit of so splash out on someth Faux fur, feather . fun for the party season s are all pretty, ero bol ned capes and sequin s. if not substantial, option

Star by Julien MacDonald £275 @ debenhams.co.uk

Clogua Gold charms from £89, Enchantment, Headley Road, Grayshott

Layered Skirt £59, Phase Eight, High Street, Guildford

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list look when it comes to If you favour the minima h ’re duty to experiment wit daytime make up, it’s you a is son’s cosmetic offering your party face. This sea , shimmer and shine, so our col veritable banquet of ng from your usual look. don’t be afraid of deviati

lection Bobbi Brown’s latest col and ltry Su , oky includes Sm ts that Smoldering Eye compac rt. A sta are the perfect place to vide pro r line base colour and eye d bol a ile wh n tio the best founda g lon and dow sha eye metallic your eyes stay lasting ‘eye paint’ ensure ning. eve all beautifully made up

Glam Stars Eyelights £25.50, Artdeco @ garden.co.uk

Red knot draped jersey dress £150 Pied a Terre @ House of Fraser, High Street, Guildford. Gold Swarovski crystal encrusted necklace £380 Anton Heunis,

Mascara Top Coat £9, Boots, High Str eet, Guildford

s remain a failsafe Smouldering, smoky eye ink long sweeping Th . dos option for evening er and shadows in lashes framed by eye-lin hues. Either pick out charcoal and chocolate or snap up one of the perfect tones for you ettes with all the pal n tio the new special edi place. essential shades in one

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ers palettes from Artdeco off The Glam Stars Eyelights to ssly s which blend seamle three shimmering colour delicate enough to use are cover the eyelids and during the day.

range er, No.7’s new Mirror Ball For a subtle skin shimm r ove d ste ssed powder. Du includes a highlighting pre t, ligh the ch cat es ective particl your cheekbones, its refl ’d you If n. xio ple dewy com giving you a youthful and iously, the Glitter obv re mo bit a rkle spa like to tion is a glistening lec col e Mascara from the sam t shine to your lashes. topcoat that adds instan ur? Looking for all-out glamo red spi e-in tag vin Givency’s utifully Christmas offering is bea x Yeu e sm packaged. Their Pri ck, bla of ny mo shadow’s a har white and silver, is softly r textured and leaves you in a ng rkli eyelids gently spa de. 62 sha y gre tic dark, drama

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No7 MirrorBall Highlighter Compact £13.50, Boots, High Street, Guildford

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DECEMBER 2010

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THESE DAYS YOU CAN STAY LOOKING YOUNGER AND HEALTHIER WITHOUT THE NEED FOR SURGICAL INTERVENTION. WE MEET DR NATALIE BLAKELY OF THE LIGHT TOUCH CLINIC IN GUILDFORD WHO EXPLAINS HOW

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e all want to stay healthy and young-looking for as long as possible and it’s a natural human instinct to want to look good and present ourselves as best we can. But how can we do this without the pain of surgery and what are the best alternatives? A visit to the Light Touch Clinic in the heart of Guildford will give you all the answers. The elegant clinic is owned by Dr. Natalie Blakely (above), who specialises purely in non-surgical treatments such as dermal fillers, facial aesthetics, anti-wrinkle and wrinkle-relaxing treatments. “Increasingly people want to preserve their facial expressions but soften their existing lines and wrinkles,” says Dr. Blakely. “At Light Touch we truly believe we have struck the right balance using the latest techniques in cosmetic medicine to maintain a youthful appearance in a warm, friendly and comfortable environment. We’re as far removed from a clinical medical centre as you could possibly find. “The key to a natural look is in the application of the right procedures to soften the signs of ageing, giving a sought-after, healthy, non-surgical boost. The lighter approach gives a naturallooking finish which will have your friends and colleagues asking what your secret is.”

of medical aesthetics requires a high level of skill and knowledge and experience. “We understand the complexities of ageing, how it affects anatomy, skin tone, fat loss and volume loss. We offer you a friendly unhurried personal consultation where we will discuss the range of effects which work best for you. We will also take you through a complete facial analysis before recommending the right balance of procedures to soften the signs of ageing and give you that sought-after, healthy, non-surgical ‘lift’.” If you would like to visit the Light Touch Clinic they’d be delighted to meet you. You will be amazed at what they can do to help you stay looking younger, naturally. This month they are offering a special discount to So Guildford readers – complimentary consultation and Christmas goodie bag when taken before December 23 2010. Light Touch Clinic Highgate House, 210 High Street, Guildford GU1 3JB Phone: 01483 568013 Email: info@lighttouchclinic.co.uk lighttouchclinic.co.uk

Dr. Blakely is a graduate of Guy’s, King’s and St Thomas’ medical school in London. Although trained within the NHS, she decided that her true passion lay within the arena of cosmetic medicine, understanding that looking good can have a tremendous impact on how we feel. Her main areas of expertise are injectables, including wrinkle relaxing treatments, commonly known as botox, wrinkle fillers and dermal implants. This complex and ever changing speciality DECEMBER 2010

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THINKING OF BUYING A WATCH FOR YOUR LOVED ONE THIS CHRISTMAS? THEN YOU MIGHT WANT TO CAST AN EYE OVER OUR EXCLUSIVE LIST OF THE WORLD’S TOP TEN WATCHES‌ THE FINEST, MOST EXPENSIVE TIMEPIECES EVER MADE. TOGETHER THEY’RE WORTH A COOL £12 MILLION

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undreds of years of innovation and design have contributed to each one of these masterpieces on our Top Ten list, from the watch which pays homage to the 1950s golden age of glamour and couture, to the timepiece which contains a 2,000 year old piece of the moon. And then there are the one-offs, such as the watch born out of a friendly competition to produce the timepiece with the most complications (mechanical functions of the watch other than the hours, minutes and seconds), which sold for an eye-watering sum (almost ÂŁ7million) at auction, or the watch which borrowed its design solution from an astronomical pocket piece. All of these watches have a story to tell, and they are all, most deďŹ nitely, much more than just watches. They will, of course, make pretty decent Christmas presents. Here they are in reverse order.

WORDS NANCY CREMORE

%UHLWOLQJ IRU %HQWOH\ &ROOHFWLRQ Â… Born from a passion for ďŹ ne mechanisms, this collection from Breitling and Bentley offers connoisseurs a rich range of watches all equipped with high performance “motorsâ€?. In the Breitling workshops, just as in the Bentley factories, cutting edge technology goes hand in hand with the noblest traditions. This particular 18K rose gold “wrist instrumentâ€? comes in top of the line for their most expensive men’s watch at an impressive ÂŁ145,300. Although the model is not typical of the Breitling round face, it has a diamond studded rectangular face, it still comes with the sought after Swiss mechanisms which make Breitling so popular.

%UHJXHW 3RFNHW :DWFK … Since it was acquired by the Swatch Group in 1999, Montres Breguet has rapidly moved up the ladder of luxury watchmakers. The Classique 1907 is a technical masterpiece, with a yellowgold case featuring two secret covers – one hiding the face and the other the movement assembly. A collector’s piece, this watch features a tourbillon, which is a mechanism invented in 1795 by the founder of Breguet itself - Abraham Louis Breguet. These mechanisms were originally created to improve accuracy, and are still included as a novelty in expensive modern watches to this day.

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WAT C H E S

%ODQFSDLQ *UDQGH &RPSOLFDWLRQ Â… Blancpain watches are ďŹ nished, decorated and assembled by hand in keeping with the noblest horological traditions. This watch is one of a limited series of 30 and draws from almost 275 years of research and tradition, and a deep respect for ‘haute horologie’. Its casing is platinum, its skin crocodile, and there are 740 component parts which make this one of the most complicated timepieces in the world.

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/RXLV 0RLQHW 0DJLVWUDOLV Â… How about wearing a piece of the moon on your wrist? The Magistralis features a 2,000 year-old lunar meteorite for the moon-phase display of the movement (including minute repeater, perpetual calendar and single-pusher chronograph functions). Of all meteorites, lunar is the rarest of all and more expensive than gold and platinum put together. Louis Moinet also introduces the ďŹ rst musical instrument for watches thanks to the watch stand itself which serves to amplify the sound of the repeater mechanism.

+XEORW %ODFN &DYLDU %DQJ Â… Italian watchmaker Carlo Crocco founded the Swiss watch brand Hublot in the 1980s, and today the brand’s sparse, clean designs are instantly recognisable. A strong naval theme runs through the designs, in fact the word ‘hublot’ is French for porthole. The Hublot watches were also the ďŹ rst to be ďŹ tted with rubber straps instead of traditional metals or leather which was an innovation at the time. This avante garde decision in the 1980s is now a staple among other Swiss Brands. With the arrival of Jean-Claude Biver of Blancpain to the halls of Hublot, and the introduction of the fusion-based Big Bang line, the brand’s stature has been ampliďŹ ed.

7KH &KRSDUG 6XSHU ,FH &XEH Â… This glittering creation was released in 1999 and everything in its design, from the bezel to the dial, is a tribute to geometry. To underscore the homage paid to the cube shape, the stones are set with claws which accentuate the angles. On certain models, tiny square diamonds illuminate the claws. And if you don’t fancy diamonds, how about pastel sapphires, rubies or even black diamonds instead? In fact there are 50 different versions of this watch, one to suit every outďŹ t.

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3DWHN 3KLOLSSH 6N\ 0RRQ 7RXUELOORQ Â… The objective with this double-faced wristwatch was to accommodate the most fascinating complications in the small case of a wristwatch; a perpetual calendar, a minute repeater, a tourbillon, the display of sidereal time and a depiction of the nocturnal sky with the motion of the stars, the orbit of the moon, and the moon phases. This was a challenge because a chart of the heavenly canopy requires a certain amount of space in order to demonstrate the movements of the stars in a clearly legible manner. The solution was borrowed from the astronomical pocket watches made by the company; a moving sky chart on the reverse side of the timepiece. Due to their high complexity only a few of these watches are produced every year. The Sky Moon in white gold (pictured) is part of the current collection.

9DFKHURQ &RQVWDQLQ 7RXU G¡LOOH Â… Made from 834 component parts and with 16 complications, this double-faced watch is a masterpiece of design which took over 10,000 man hours to complete. Perhaps unsurprisingly there are only seven examples of these in the world. Vacheron Constantin itself is the world’s oldest watch manufacturer and has enjoyed uninterrupted activity since its founding in 1755.

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The platinum World Time indicates 41 cities, regions and countries and was sold for around £4million in 2002 – a new world record for wristwatches. Ever since universal time was adopted at the Internatonal Meridian Conference in Washington, D.C in 1884, watchmakers have tried to outdo each other with clever ways for displaying multiple time zones. In 1930, Patek Philippe presented its acclaimed World Time wristwatch with two rotating discs that made it possible to simultaneously display the time in all 24 zones. Today, these timepieces fetch astronomical prices at auctions. There is also a current collection of this watch (pictured), but be prepared to join a queue for it!

This watch is the result of a friendly competition between the banker Henry Graves and the automobile manufacturer James Ward Packard in the 1920s. The Henry Graves pocket watch is also also known as Supercomplication. Both men commissioned Patek Philippe to produce their watches, and the idea was to own the watch with the greatest number of complications possible. This culminated in a timepiece that took three years to design and ďŹ ve years to produce. When completed in 1933, the watch had a different horological function for each hour of the day and included a chart of the nighttime sky over Graves’ home in New York. When Graves died in 1953 his watch was sold to the Time Museum in Rockford, Illinois. After the museum closed, it was auctioned at Sotheby’s in New York in 1999. The watch had a presale estimate of ÂŁ2-ÂŁ3million. It was actually sold for almost ÂŁ7million, a record-breaking bid, to an anonymous bidder. Whichever watch you choose to buy your loved one just make sure they take time out to enjoy it. 62

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NORMALLY WE FOCUS ON INDIVIDUAL PROPERTIES WITH OUR REGULAR LOOK INSIDE SOME OF THE FINER HOMES ON THE MARKET. THIS MONTH, HOWEVER, WE DECIDED TO LOOK AT AN EXCITING NEW DEVELOPMENT

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enefiting from a fantastic location just a mile from Guildford’s town centre, Boxgrove Gardens is a new project by the award-winning developers Linden Homes.

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Family houses are set along tree-lined roads while forming a relaxing focal point is a large park populated with specimen trees which have been carefully protected during the building programme.

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Visitors to Boxgrove Gardens are able to view three show homes, which highlight some of the different internal layouts available, designed by highly regarded architects, John Thompson & Partners. Arranged over three floors, all homes offer plenty of flexible space which can be adapted to suit individual living styles. The four-bedroom Goldcrest, for example, is the epitome of modern living. The dining area and kitchen lead into a large, light-filled living area with concertina doors that run the full width of the house and open on to the garden. On the first floor are two double bedrooms and a single bedroom which could also be used as a home office or snug. The large master bedroom, with a separate dressing area and ensuite shower room, occupies the entire top floor, providing a peaceful haven away from the hubbub of family life. Later phases of the project will include converted apartments in Uplands House, a former country manor in the heart of the development, which is being restored to its original grandeur. Boxgrove Gardens is ideally situated within walking distance of many of Guildford’s best public and state schools, as well as being conveniently served, of course, by two train stations: Guildford Station and London Road Station. The A3, less than ten minutes’ drive away and provides direct access to London and the south coast. Currently available at Boxgrove Gardens are the last remaining three-bedroom houses starting from £429,995 while four-bedroom Goldcrest’s start from £599,995.

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Linden Homes is launching Augustus Row, an exclusive collection of ten, five-bedroom family houses with a special preview evening by appointment only on Thursday December 2 from 5pm to 8pm.

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For more information on Boxgrove Gardens or to book your place at the preview evening, call the Sales and Marketing Suite on Epsom Road, Guildford on 01483 565598. It’s open 10am to 5pm daily. Or visit boxgrovegardens.com.

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WORDS MELISSA WOODLAND

DECEMBER 2010

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FROM FAMILY HEIRLOOMS TO MODERN MASTERPIECES, THE WALLS OF MANY A HOME ARE ADORNED WITH WORKS OF ART. THEY PROVIDE A FOCAL POINT AND SOMETHING TO TALK ABOUT WHEN YOU’RE ENTERTAINING, BUT FEW PEOPLE WOULD EVEN DREAM OF OPENING THEIR HOME AS AN ART GALLERY. YET GUILDFORD COUPLE ANNABEL AND CHRIS AGACE HAVE DONE JUST THAT

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erched on the edge of a hill overlooking Guildford and the Wey Valley, Chalk Hill is a modernist home that leads a double life. Throughout the year, it is a vibrant, open plan family abode for Annabel, Chris and their three children. Every Summer and Winter, however, it becomes a contemporary art gallery that plays host to special exhibitions featuring work by some of the UK’s most respected artists. It all began in 2002 when the couple decided to move from the hustle and bustle of London to enjoy a gentler pace of life with their family in the countryside. However, this was not to be a straightforward move – they wanted to build their ideal home in a green space – something that’s not too easy to find in desirable Surrey. Luck was on their side, though. “We were looking at the house next door, when we saw a slightly pokey, cubist box here,” explains Annabel. Within days it came onto the market and the Agaces snapped it up.

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Having seen her work on Channel 4’s Grand Designs, the couple engaged architect Elspeth Beard to design the open plan property they wanted while complying with the restrictive covenants on

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the land. The resulting plan was for a single level, open plan home with expanses of glass to flood the area with sunlight. It was the large canvas of white walls and natural light that inspired Annabel to explore the idea of exhibiting art and forging a new career. “The gallery idea simply grew with the design and from a desire to do something for myself as the children were getting older,” she says. “Once we had decided on the basic design we were always thinking about the house as a gallery space. The design was based on maximising wall space for hanging art, with as much glass as possible.” A self confessed avid art collector, Annabel has filled their home with art they have purchased over the years. “Buying and collecting is my passion. I especially love the St. Ives group; Ben Nicholson, Barbara Hepworth, Alfred Wallis plus their contemporaries, Terry Frost and Patrick Heron.” Though works are hung throughout the house, it’s the living and dining areas that become the formal exhibition gallery of Chalk Hill Contemporary Art during a show.

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“It’s a very unusual space for art exhibitions, which many of the artists really like,” says Annabel.

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Last month’s Winter Exhibition, the eleventh to be held at Chalk Hill, featured paintings and prints by the renowned Pamela Scott Wilkie and sculpture by Vanessa Pooley, illustrating the calibre of artist that this unusual gallery is able to attract. To date, Annabel has shown work by many of the UK’s most esteemed artists including Felicity Aylieff, Frank Beanland, Nic FiddianGreen and Sophie Smallhorn. The next exhibition at Chalk Hill Contemporary Art will be held in Summer 2011. For more information visit chalkhill.co.uk

At a Glance: Property: Chalk Hill Location: Chantry View Road, Guildford Bedrooms: five Bathrooms: two plus cloakroom Extras: two receptions, office, reading room and playroom

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WITH THE LONG DAYS OF SUMMER WELL AND TRULY BEHIND US, IT’S TIME TO GIVE SOME THOUGHT ON HOW BEST TO LIGHT YOUR HOME. HERE’S HOW TO CREATE A WELCOMING AND COSY HUB FOR THOSE COLD WINTRY EVENINGS

TABLE LAMPS

DOWNLIGHTS These lights, where the bulb can be contained in a housing above the ceiling, are becoming increasingly popular for kitchens, bathrooms, and even living areas. They give a minimalist ‘twinkle’ effect to a room, and come in some interesting and very modern shapes and designs.

DECEMBER 2010

The warm glow from a couple of well-placed table lamps is hard to beat in terms of cosiness and site-specific illumination. Make sure you choose a lamp of an appropriate size for the table it’s to go on and consider its style against the rest of your surroundings. If you’re using it for reading, a good rule of thumb is to make sure that the bottom of the shade is roughly even with your cheekbone when you’re sitting on the chair, to ensure the light falls in the correct place.

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TRADITIONAL CHANDELIERS Chandeliers were first used in medieval times, where four candles would be nailed to a wooden cross and the whole thing suspended from the ceiling with a rope or a chain. Now they come in all shapes and sizes, and with dozens of lamps and candles, plus crystal or glass droplets. They illuminate a room with refracted light and beautiful prisms of colour (which, depending on material, can complement your design scheme). A very elegant centrepiece, and traditionally used in large entrance rooms or grand dining areas, scaleddown versions can add period detail and a sense of drama to any room.

WALL LIGHTS From picture lights to wall sconces (a decorative piece that attaches to a wall and holds either candles or an electric light), wall lighting is not often seen in modern houses as they can lack the necessary wiring. However, wall lighting can be a subtle and tidy way of lighting a room so it’s worth considering if you have an older property or don’t mind a bit of re-wiring. They’re also great for entrance ways and hallways as they free up floor space.

CEILING LAMPS This is the style we probably all think of first when choosing lighting, but ceiling lamps don’t have to be simple bulb and paper shades. This interesting modern design (The Prism light, from IQ Lighting) is a lamp within a lamp, where the inside one has been given a dichroic coating (thin layers of metal oxides) which produce a change in the optical properties of the glass, giving the effect of a beautiful rainbow of colours which can change depending on the angle of view.

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MODERN CHANDELIERS Despite their heritage, chandeliers aren’t bound by tradition, and some newer designs can look a million miles away from the classic drop-crystal creation. Modern designs tend to use geometric shapes and patterns such as cubes, rectangles, spirals or pyramids and often blend traditional elements with modern materials, for example, glass and alabaster with polished chrome. So, if you’re after a statement piece that resembles a sculptural work of art, a modern chandelier could be for you.

FLOOR LAMPS

FLOOR WASHERS In contrast to traditional uplighters, floor washers are recessed in the foot of a wall to illuminate the floor. They are perfect for areas like hallways or stairs, which don’t need bright overhead illumination, and provide a low, even spread of low-voltage light over the area. If you have a particularly beautiful polished wood or antique stone floor, then floor washers will show this up to best effect.

Whether for reading, up-lighting, highlighting a much-loved room feature or purely for decoration, floor lamps are a very versatile choice as they can be moved around to suit changing moods and furniture. Floor lights often come in a ‘mother and child’ design, the mother being a main, floor-standing uplighter and the child an adjustable seat-height lamp with a flexible arm and neck for reading.

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THE FIRST MEAL WAS SERVED AT LA BARBE IN REIGATE MORE THAN A QUARTER OF A CENTURY AGO. TODAY IT REMAINS ONE OF THE MOST POPULAR RESTAURANTS IN TOWN. WE SENT FOODIE WILL NICHOLSON ALONG TO FIND OUT WHY

DECEMBER 2010

R E S TA U R A N T

Universally it’s known as probably the finest cuisine and that’s before you even start on the wine. You read so often how British cooking is catching up, although it’s a well documented fact that some of the finest chefs in this country learned their trade in a French kitchen. Gordon Ramsay, Tom Aikens and Tristan Welch to name but a few, all did stints across the channel in the dawn of their careers. Such is the Gallic influence over cooking in this country that even restaurants that don’t claim to be French will include descriptions such as an ‘assiette’ or have a ‘menu de jour’ or ‘menu prix fixe’ in an attempt to add a sense of sophistication. And you don’t need me to tell you that the very word ‘restaurant’ is derived from French. My own experience of French cooking has been quite diverse, from Provencal to fine dining, some good and some bad and so it was with an open mind that we sought out La Barbe which has been something of a stalwart on the Reigate dining scene for a whopping 27 years. Situated on Bell Street just a stones throw from the town centre, you would be forgiven for thinking you had arrived in the dining quarter of Reigate. We spot venues serving Chinese, Indian and Italian. Easily the most inviting, though, is La Barbe, with a modern exterior and pleasant signage in the colours of the French tricolour. We enter into what feels like a very snug provincial bistro, but the size is deceiving. There are further tables tucked around a corner, where the restaurant seems to stretch out, although this certainly doesn’t at all affect the intimacy of the place.

mean feat! The evening menu offers two courses for £25.95 and three for £30.95. The acting Manager, Gurvan, arrives to take our order. Vikki has finally settled on the special of mussels and scallops with puff pastry and a fragrant cream sauce for starter and a main of duck leg confit served on a bed of mashed white haricot beans and broad beans with Madera sauce. Yours truly heads for the veal, potato and wild mushroom pie with a salad bouquet, followed by the pan-fried venison steak with mushroom sauce and mashed potato. Gurvan suggests we also have some spinach with nutmeg and the house special dauphinoise potatoes to accompany our selections. With the orders taken, he is more than happy to share his expertise in recommending a bottle of 2005 Chateau Miraval Côtes de Provence which he feels will sit very well with our choices. It’s worth noting that they also offer an ample selection of wines by carafe and 2/3 bottles. Gurvan arrives back at the table with the bottle of wine and a large carafe and gives us what can only be described as a master class in decanting. It was a joy to watch and I have yet to see anything so professionally done even in some of London’s top restaurants. It’s certainly an inspired choice of wine which is a deep ruby red, full bodied and delivers flavours of spices and red fruits as well as a generous bouquet and well developed taste. Not long after, both our starters are brought to the table and look very impressive.

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rench dining conjures up a variety of thoughts. From stuffy sommeliers and menus that read like a thesis, to gastronomic art on a plate and rich, filling delights.

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The decor is a refreshing mix of exposed brickwork, tiled floors and neutral wood. Candles set a nice tone, and the ubiquitous sound of a French accordion is to be heard in the background. We’re greeted warmly and seated in what I would best describe as a booth, with both of us facing out allowing us to see the restaurant filling up swiftly. A basket of bread is provided on each table with a pot of traditional salted butter and a small portion of olives. My partner, Vikki and I are presented with menus as well as a very extensive wine list and are advised of the specials of the day. At the same time we’re offered an aperitif of Strawberry Kir Royale, which delights Vikki. For me it’s a lager. The menu is just what you want from a French restaurant with a mixture of classics and contemporary. All choices are listed in French and English, and we notice a nice touch in the wine menu - recommendations on what types of dish suit each offering. Wines are listed by region and, to do justice to the meal, we decide to ask for a recommendation from the staff. This, of course, after we have chosen what it is we are to eat, which is no DECEMBER 2010

&HOHEUDWH &KULVWPDV LQ 6XUUH\œV OLWWOH SLHFH RI )UDQFH Experience great food and our extensive wine list in a warm and welcoming ambience at la barbe, the truly French restaurant in Reigate. Our attentive staff will make every effort to make your Christmas lunch or dinner a merry occasion. Our special seasonal menus, designed for parties of 4-70 people, are available from late November We are also taking bookings for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve. These convivial occasions are always very popular so do reserve your table as soon as you can. Our menus are available on our website or ask us to send them to you.

Availability is limited Please book early by ringing Gurvan on 01737 241966 Find out more: www.LaBarbe.co.uk 71 Bell Street, Reigare, Surrey RH2 7AN

R E S TA U R A N T

Vikki’s dish is a neat mound of scallops and mussels coated in a silky cream sauce, with an ever so light puff pastry whilst the chef must be commended on making my starter of veal pie look extremely elegant. My companion seems very content with the starter and informs me that all elements are cooked perfectly and that the sauce complements the dish handsomely. My pie is quite an ample portion, served on a rectangular plate and garnished with whole pink peppercorns and chives as well as engagingly coloured straight lines of sauce. The pie itself has been constructed wonderfully, with the ingredients adeptly layered one on top of the other. It almost seems a shame to break into it. The flavours are excellent, and the pastry not too heavy. With both of us in agreement that the starters were exceptional, we await our mains with much anticipation. After a short break they duly arrive and again both plates are most attractive. Vikki’s confit duck is executed perfectly, sat atop of the mashed beans with just enough Madera sauce. My venison is a stunning piece of meat, cooked perfectly medium rare as requested - the meat literally melts in the mouth. The mushroom sauce rounds it off superbly and the mash is nice and smooth. The added spinach was a wise suggestion and the dauphinoise potatoes are very palatable. Both cooking and presentation are to an extremely high standard and a lot of ‘ooohs’ and ‘aaahhs’ ensue. We’ve left just enough room for dessert. I couldn’t help but notice the vast selection of cheeses on the cart not far from our table and I know that Vikki will almost certainly go for something containing chocolate. She doesn’t disappoint and heads straight for the dark chocolate charlotte with tea syrup. Keeping in sync with the rest of the meal, her dessert is very pretty and she assures me is absolutely heavenly. For my choice there is an additional £2.50 supplement, which turns out to be worth every penny as I am offered five slabs of cheese from a selection of around twenty, served with a plateful of biscuits and some celery and grapes.

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Amongst my choices is a delectable cheese coated in paprika and mixed with garlic and a very smooth Camembert. I’m also served a small glass of Tawny Port to accompany the cheese. It’s all divine. To finish we order a couple of espressos and take a few moments to solicit, from a very pleasant waitress, a few additional facts about the restaurant. Firstly the menu changes with the season and the staff are encouraged to sample the dishes for themselves which is a great practice and one more establishments should consider. It means the staff are able to advise and recommend on the dishes with much more confidence and knowledge. We also learn that the Head Chef Laurent has been at the restaurant for 26 of the 27 years it has been open - a remarkable achievement. He is obviously very talented and they have done well to have kept hold of him. Throughout the evening, there has been a very pleasant atmosphere about the place; the food has been to an exceptional standard with very assured and precise presentation. Service too, has been outstanding. The bill for an aperitif, lager, three courses, bottle of wine (£45), water and coffees comes to just shy of £133 without service. I can safely say that for an experience of this calibre in London you would be forced to pay substantially more. As we leave, we notice the restaurant is nicely full, and this on a Wednesday evening. Evidence, if ever it were needed ,of how La Barbe has become a great restaurant that has stood the test of time. 62

At a Glance La Barbe, 71 Bell Street, Reigate RH2 7AN 01732 241 966 labarbe.co.uk Lunch: Two Course £19.50/Three course £24.50 Dinner: Two Course £25.95/Three course £30.95 Friday & Saturday Dinner Two Course £28.95/Three Course £33.95 Wine from around £28 bottle, by the glass from around £6

DECEMBER 2010

WIN WIN

FATHER CHRISTMAS IS COMING TO TOWN AND WE’RE GIVING AWAY THE CHANCE TO SEE HIM AND HIS ELVES AT LAPLANDUK – THE AWARD-WINNING CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE AT THE WINTER WONDERLAND OF BEWL WATER NEAR LAMBERHURST, IN KENT

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TICKETS TO LAPLANDUK WORTH £500

e’ve got a couple of family tickets for use on Friday December 17 which means two lucky families can enjoy all the fun of Father Christmas’ arctic homeland – just down the road.

While Father Christmas and his little helpers prepare for the big day, you can pay him a visit and pop into the North Pole post office to lend the elves a hand. There’s also tasty gingerbread to decorate in Mother Christmas’ kitchen and an ice rink to enjoy. You can even meet husky dogs, reindeer and the mystical Sami, the indigenous people of Lapland. Each child will have a personal meeting with Father Christmas himself in his snowy forest log cabin and, as is tradition at LaplandUK, all children will receive a collectable husky puppy soft toy dog. This year it’s called ‘Joki’ which means River in Finnish. And it could not be simpler to enter the competition. For your chance to win a family ticket, just send an email with ‘So LaplandUK’ in the subject field to phil@magazinepeople.co.uk with your name, address and phone number. Alternatively, send a postcard to: Head Office, Studio Six, Sussex Mews, Tunbridge Wells TN2 5QJ LaplandUK is open between December 4 and 24 2010. For booking information visit laplanduk.co.uk Please advise on your entry if you would prefer not to be contacted in the future by So Guildford or LaplandUK. Ensure you include your full name, address, phone number and email address. The closing date for entries is 12th December 2010 at which point the winner will be drawn at random. All standard competition Terms and Conditions of So Guildford apply. One entry per person per household. Entrants must be 18 or over.The prize includes one family ticket to LaplandUK per winner, for the Friday 17th December 9.00am slot only. Dates and time slots are not transferable. A family ticket is for four people and must include at least one child (up to and including age 16). Prior to the visit, the winners will be required to provide information about the children in the party for their visit to Father Christmas. No cash alternative. Prize does not include transport to or from LaplandUK. The winner will be notified by e-mail within 2 days of the closing date. In the event that a winner cannot be contacted by email within 2 days a substitute winner will be drawn and the original winner will forfeit the prize. No purchase necessary. The Editor’s decision is final.

DECEMBER 2010

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WHAT LINKS BUCKINGHAM PALACE, WINDSOR CASTLE, BALMORAL AND GUILDFORD? THE ANSWER IS – SMOKED SALMON! TO FIND OUT MORE READ ON

DECEMBER 2010

: ; @ D B RXW THE ART OF SMOKING

However, West Clandon resident Andrew Leigh (above) is proud of the fact that he’s put Guildford on the world map when it comes to smoked salmon. He’s the owner of John Ross Jr which holds a much coveted Royal Warrant for its smoked salmon that’s produced with techniques dating back to 1857. Set up in 1988, John Ross Jr quickly established itself as an artisan producer and today has an annual turnover of £10million and employs 90 people. It supplies world-renowned restaurants and hotels including Gary Rhodes’ Rhodes 24, the Intercontinental on Park Lane and part of the Dorchester Collection. Even more notable is how the traditional producer supplies the Royal network of kitchens including those at Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle and Balmoral - a move that brought with it the Royal Warrant. “We’re extremely proud to be a Royal Warrant Holder,” says Andrew. “Our focus is on quality through and through and the Royal Warrant represents a great badge of honour. Although we’re headquartered in West Clandon, the smokery is based in Aberdeen, near Balmoral, so we regularly supply the royal kitchen there.” Did the Royal Warrant help John Ross Jr win the Queen’s International Award for Trade in 2000? “No, that was down to sheer hard work and the fact that we had grown from a small smokery to a business supplying 36 countries throughout the world.”

John Ross Jr was recognised once again for its excellence earlier on this year when it achieved gold status at the Great Taste Awards. The coveted gold star rating was awarded to John Ross Jr for its Traditional Smoked Salmon and Smoked Salmon Pâté following a rigorous judging process by 350 judges, who blindtested over 6,000 food and drink products. But what makes John Ross Jr so special? As Andrew explains: “It’s all down to the time dedicated to the smoking process. We’re one of only a handful of producers that respect the traditional techniques that have almost been lost to modern methods. “We use the oldest brick kilns in Scotland and hang the salmon over a smouldering fire of oak-chippings. It takes much longer but tastes so much better. It’s a truly traditional technique.” Indeed, the process is now regarded as being of historical and architectural importance as Historic Scotland has listed the brick kilns due to their rare status. The secret of John Ross Jr’s success doesn’t just lie with traditional techniques and time-honoured processes, but with family values. Andrew’s entire family works for the business. Andrew’s son, Chris, runs the factory in Scotland whilst his two daughters and wife work out of West Clandon and Cobham. Daughter Vicky Leigh is the Sales Director, daughter Rebecca Leigh also works in sales and Jenny Leigh, Andrew’s wife, manages the finances. “Keeping the family close to the business has been so important and is one of the reasons that we continue to grow. Having people you trust and who share the same passion for your product around you makes a huge difference. The passion drives the business forward and has made it what it is today. “Looking back on how far we’ve come over the last two decades, it’s easy to forget how much we’ve achieved. We literally started as an artisan producer and we now have a loyal international following.” With a back catalogue of successes and a desire to produce the best product, what does the future hold for John Ross Jr? “The most important thing for us is to never lose sight of the art

DECEMBER 2010

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ewis Carroll, cobbled streets and the sprawling downs spring to mind whenever Guildford is mentioned, but, strangely enough, never awardwinning smoked salmon.

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THE ART OF SMOKING

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of smoking. We’ve perfected the process and believe that it sets us apart from the rest. Of course we want to continue growing steadily, but we want to do so using the traditional techniques that have defined us over the years. Our focus is on those customers that want a quality product.” So, after all these years, has smoked salmon lost its appeal? “Never,” laughs Andrew. “Particularly when served with a cold glass of Champagne.” We’ll drink to that. johnrossjr.com

The art of smoking • Smoking salmon is not a scientific process. It’s a craft that John Ross Jr has developed over 150 years. Here is how it is done. • The salmon arrives on boats in Aberdeen’s harbour and is then taken to the smoker. • Each fish is hand filleted and dry salted.

• Once the dry salting has finished the salmon are rinsed off and sprinkled with Demerara sugar. • The salmon are then hung in brick kilns to be cold smoked over oak and beech chippings.

07887772230

• Depending on a number of factors, including weather and climate, the salmon is smoked for up to 24 hours • The Master Smoker then inspects each salmon by lightly squeezing the tail. By doing this, he knows whether or not they need to be smoked for longer. • The entire process is down to an intuitive technique that has developed over years and years of smoking.

DECEMBER 2010

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T H E AT R E S

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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

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The Night Before Christmas What? On the night before Christmas Emma stares out of the window, hugs her teddy and waits excitedly for the morning, while in the corner a little mouse called Eddie can’t understand why only humans are allowed to celebrate and get presents. Where? Yvonne Arnaud, Guildford When? Thursday December 16 to Sunday 26 Web? yvonne-arnaud.co.uk

Hamlet What? Often described as Shakespeare’s finest tragedy, this production of Hamlet has garnered critical acclaim since the start of its run. The performance on December 9 will be broadcast live to cinemas around the world as part of National Theatre Live. Where? The National Theatre, London When? Now until to Sunday January 9 Web? nationaltheatre.org.uk

Season’s Greetin gs What?

Christmas is never easy in the Bunker hou sehold and this year ’s no differe nt. But unlike m any family Christmases it’s the adult s who aren’t behaving. W arring uncles, toy guns for nie ces and bungled infidelity beneath the tree make th is an unconve ntional Chri stmas play Where? Th e National Theatre, Lo ndon When? Wed nesday Dec ember 1 to Tuesday January 4 Web? natio naltheatre.o rg.uk

A Christmas Carol What? Bringing to life a whole host of Dickensian characters from the spectral Jacob Marley to the warm and loving Bob Cratchit and his son Tiny Tim, not forgetting, of course, the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future. Where? Yvonne Arnaud, Guildford When? Wednesday December 15 to Friday 24 Web? yvonne-arnaud.co.uk

DECEMBER 2 0 1 0

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Men Should Weep What? A look at the impoverished lives of a 1930s Glaswegian family. Funny, moving and thought provoking, the play was voted in the top 100 plays of the 20th Century. Where? The National Theatre, London When? Now until Monday January 10 Web? nationaltheatre.org.uk

Austen’s Women What? Some of the most rewarding moments from the works of Jane Austen will be brought to the stage in an extraordinary one woman performance by Rebecca Vaughan. Described as, “a startling feat of performance, portrayal, writing and direction� by the Fringe Review. Where? The Electric Theatre, Guildford When? Friday December 3 Web? electrictheatre.co.uk

Cart Macabre What? An immersive performance in which 32 people are shepherded into eight wooden carts and moved through a succession of theatrical environments – in the dark. Throughout this journey, a narrative begins to unfold, revealed to the audience through the architecture of the performance space. Where? The Old Vic, London When? Saturday December 4 to Wedensday 22 Web? oldvictheatre.com

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs What? Gareth Gates, Claire Sweeney and Aimee Atkinson star in one of the New Victoria Theatre’s biggest ever Christmas productions. A dazzling rendition of the classic tale, guaranteed to melt hearts. Where? New Victoria Theatre, Woking When? Saturday December 11 to Sunday January 16 Web? ambassadortickets.com

DECEMBER 2 0 1 0

Canterbury Tales What? Chaucer’s ancient tales are brought to life in two parts in Mike Poulton’s new adaptation, originally performed by the RSC and now in the hands of the Yvonne Arnaud Youth Theatre’s oldest group, Act One. Where? Yvonne Arnaud, Guildford When? Thursday December 9 to Sunday 12 Web? yvonne-arnaud.co.uk

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IN MARCH 1980, A CAR WAS UNVEILED THAT WOULD SHAPE THE FUTURE OF A COMPANY. THE AUDI QUATTRO BECAME AN ICON AND WAS INSTRUMENTAL IN GIVING ITS MANUFACTURER THE IMPETUS FOR A DRAMATIC GROWTH SPURT OF ITS OWN. 30 YEARS ON, AT THE 2010 GENEVA MOTORSHOW, THE NEW RS 5 WAS GIVEN PRIDE OF PLACE

1LFH WORDS STEVE WALKER

Developed by its performance engineering subsidiary, Quattro GmbH, Audi’s RS models are highly specialised versions of its mainstream production cars. In this case, the RS 5 is based on the A5 coupe, while the RS badge can be traced back to the RS 2 Avant. This was the car that was successfully developed in partnership with Porsche and sold in the mid-1990s but, for a while after that, the ultimate performance Audis failed to hit the same heights. That changed with the RS4 of 2006, a genuine BMW M3 challenger, and then again with the mind-boggling power of the 2008 RS6. Can the RS 5 take things to the next level? Audi has been turning more and more to turbocharged powerplants in its faster cars, but the RS 5 sticks with good old cubic capacity. Mounted at the front of its quattro allwheel-drive chassis is a 4.2-litre V8 incorporating technology from the V10 FSI unit in the R8 supercar. The peak power

DECEMBER 2010

output of 444bhp is achieved at the engine’s 8,250rpm maximum and the power band is between 4,000 and 6,000rpm. Against the clock, the RS 5 will blast to 62mph in 4.6 seconds and would comfortably exceed 155mph were the artificial limiter ever to doze off on the job. S-tronic dual clutch gearbox technology is rapidly becoming as commonplace as the Quattro all-wheel-drive set up across Audi’s various model lines, and the fact that it’s fitted to the RS 5 underlines the faith the manufacturer has in it. This particular unit is a seven-speed transmission specially strengthened to cope in the company of the RS 5’s formidable engine. With two clutches working on different sets of gears, the technology is able to pre-engage the gear it thinks will be selected next. This makes for lightning fast shifting via the wheel-mounted paddles or by nudging the gear lever. There are Automatic, Comfort and Dynamic modes to choose from and a launch control setting which will get you close to optimum acceleration off the line. The standard Audi A5 is a beautiful and understated car but whether you could pay either compliment to the RS 5 is open to debate. Understated, it isn’t. Aggressive air intakes and a matt aluminium splitter mark out the front end, the

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obody would claim that the RS 5 could have anything approaching the same impact as the original Quattro, but there’s definite symmetry here. We’re dealing with a two-door Audi coupe with breathtaking performance, bags of attitude and, of course, four-wheel-drive.

MOTORS

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wheelarches bulge imposingly and at the rear are two of the largest exhausts you’ll have ever seen mounted either side of a big diffuser. There’s a spoiler in the tailgate that extends at 75mph, tucking itself away again when you drop below 50mph, so even if you aren’t breaking the speed limit, the police will know if you have been. The cabin is based around the black leather and exposed carbon fibre theme we’ve seen before on RS models. In addition to features found on other A5s, there’s an oil temperature gauge and a timer for track use. Electrically adjustable super sports seats with pronounced side sections and integrated head restraints are standard, as of course are comforts such as a 180-watt CD sound system, deluxe three-zone climate control, the Audi Parking System Plus with front and rear sensors, tyre pressure monitoring and an RS multi-function steering wheel with aluminium-look gearshift paddles. To say the RS 5 chassis is merely advanced would be to do it a disservice. The car features the latest quattro all-wheeldrive technology with a crown-gear centre differential and Audi’s sport differential between the rear wheels. Under normal conditions, power is distributed 40:60 between the front and rear wheels but the crown-gear differential can automatically send as much as 70percent forward or 80percentrearward as the situation dictates. The sport differential then distributes power between the two rear wheels to further enhance stability and traction. The Dynamic Ride Control interlinks each of the car’s shock absorbers with its counterpart on the opposite corner of the vehicle via a central valve and is calibrated to provide extra damping force when required. The driver can select Comfort, Dynamic and Sport modes according to the firmness of the damping required. The car rides 20mm lower than a standard A5 on its 19” alloy wheels. When Audi launched the Quattro in 1980, it had just two

DECEMBER 2010

model lines. Today, it’s well into double figures and expanding with ‘Quattro’ all-wheel-drive technology present in every range. It’s also viewed as a serious rival to the prestige car market kingpins BMW and Mercedes-Benz with the burning ambition to surpass them. Cars like the RS 5 are crucial to this, not because they’re going to generate huge sales or profits but because they generate interest. By being seen to take the BMW M3 and the Mercedes C63 AMG down a peg or two, the RS 5 can enhance the profile of the A5 coupe and A4 saloon models which actually bring home the bacon. The work Audi did on the exhaust system and the aerodynamics of the RS 5 to enhance its performance have also helped to improve its fuel economy. In addition, the car’s entire drive train has been designed to minimise friction losses and a brake energy recovery system is installed. An RS 5 still isn’t going to be cheap to run but the official combined economy of 26mpg could have been worse. That Audi means business with its RS 5 is beyond dispute. The car comes laden with advanced technology to help the driver get the most from its blistering performance and sporting a pricetag substantially higher than rivals from BMW and Mercedes. Arriving 30 years after the original Audi Quattro, the RS 5 would do well to be remembered half as fondly but if the intention was to shake things up in the performance coupe world, its success looks guaranteed. Packing the latest quattro all-wheel-drive system, the S-tronic dual-clutch gearbox, Dynamic Ride Control suspension and all manner of other high-tech features, the RS 5 is a car with its sights set high.

Facts at a glance: Model: Audi RS 5 Engine: 4.2 litre V8 petrol Power: 444bhp Performance: 0-62mph 4.6s, top speed 155mph (limited) Cost: £58,685

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PHOTOGRAPHY: PHIL GLOVER

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'D\ 7UDGLQJ IN THE FINAL PART OF OUR SIT-DOWN WITH NICHOLAS EDWARDS – CEO OF HEDGE FUND MANAGER ALTERNATIVE ASSET MANAGEMENT – WE FIND OUT ABOUT THE RISKS AND REWARDS OF BECOMING A DAY TRADER What is “day trading”? In generic terms the business of day trading refers to the activity of buying and selling financial instruments within the same trading day before the market closes for the day. This is certainly the focus within our company, Alternative Asset Arcades (“A2A”) business. Originally, the most important stocks were traded on the world’s major stock exchanges. Brokers would transact business through the floor of the relevant exchange via a specialist. These specialists would each make markets in only a handful of stocks. The specialist would match the purchaser with another broker’s seller, write up physical tickets that, once processed, would effectively transfer the stock. They would then relay the information back to both brokers who would be paid a fixed commission of circa 1%. However, a change in fixed commissions within the USA gave rise to a more competitive environment and discounting of commission rates was soon with us. This was one of the first steps to make day trading potentially profitable. Today some of the more commonly day traded financial instruments are stocks, stock options, currencies and a host of futures contracts such as equity index futures, interest rate futures and commodity futures. Here at A2A we

DECEMBER 2010

specialise in equity market indeces; mainly in the USA (S&P) and Germany (DAX). We are, though, building a team of traders in different underlying financial instruments to diversify and provide greater scope. Day trading has become more popular since the advent of electronic trading and post the days of the old ‘floor’ of the LIFFE (London International Financial Futures Exchange) and ‘open outcry’ trading. It used to be an activity exclusive to large financial corporates, professional investors and speculators. Indeed, until the past decade most Day Traders were bank or investment firm employees working as ‘specialists’ in the equity investment and fund management business although now it has become increasingly popular among at-home traders. The problem with this is that people are beginning to realise that trading from their back room at home is not good for their sanity or indeed their financial health! How does it differ from other forms of trading? There are many styles within day trading including Scalping, Trend Following, Range Trading, Price Action, Artificial Intelligence, Swing Trading and many other different techniques used to achieve profits. Day Traders look to use whatever skills they have plus, where possible, any other tools of the trade that works for them. These might include:

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technical patterns, volume spread analysis, price momentum etc but all share a common thread in that they are all designed to look for potential trading setups (ie any financial instruments that, in the judgment of the Day Trader, is in a tension state, ready to accelerate in price in either direction, that when traded well has a potential for a substantial profit). Here at A2A we tend to focus on short term trend following as that is our bias. However, we are developing a greater range of styles as more Day Traders join us. The number of trades that Day Traders can take per day is almost unlimited, as are the profits and losses! This is a totally different style of investment compared to the more traditional ‘buy and hold’ strategy that the vast majority of professional fund managers employ. But then the risks taken vary considerably. Short term price movements can vary sharply within minutes and losses as well as profits can accumulate fast if people are not professional. Some Day Traders focus on very short-term trading within their trading day in which a trade may last just a few minutes. Such trades can be long or short of the underlying financial instrument thus proving opportunity to make profit from falling prices as much as rising prices. Sometimes only tiny movements in prices are taken or booked as profit and then the trader is looking for the next opportunity.

movement of this index can be divided into ticks where each tick is a 1/4 of a full point movement in the index. Traders can choose the number of lots that they wish to buy or sell. Each lot provides exposure to the index. Position sizing is incredibly important and it doesn’t take long to build significant exposure. This is a major consideration in our trading activities and a core focus of our training given to aspiring new Day Traders. What are the attractions of day trading? Due to the nature of financial leverage and potential rapid moves in the underlying investments, day trading can be either extremely profitable or extremely unprofitable and high-risk profile traders can generate either huge percentage returns or huge percentage losses. Indeed, because of the high profits (and losses) that day trading makes possible, these traders are sometimes portrayed as “gamblers” by other investors; whereas the reality is that Day Trading is a profession in itself. Some individuals, however, make a consistent living from day trading and the world is full of people who believe they can become professional Day Traders. It is our ambition to train people to be able to trade profitably and consistently and build a long term career as a professional Day Trader. We are fortunate enough to have built long term relationships with some of our traders who have turned in significant profits over the past few years. It must be said though, the art of becoming a good Day Trader is careful risk control and prudent money management. This is what we look to teach our traders.

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For example some of our traders trade the S&P 500 Index (index movement for the top 500 companies in the USA) through futures. (More on what a ‘Future’ is later). Price

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The common use of buying on margin (using borrowed funds) amplifies gains and losses, such that substantial losses or gains can occur in a very short period of time which is why the importance of careful position sizing and risk controls is ever present in our training methodology. If traders do not pay enough attention to the basics they will be vulnerable to losses. There are no guarantees in this business. So what do you trade at A2A? Our preferred instrument is Futures. In our business, a futures contract is a contract between two parties to buy or sell a specified asset (eg S&P Index or Dax Index) in a fixed quantity and at a specified future date at a price agreed today (the futures price). The contracts are traded on a futures exchange. Futures contracts are not tangible assets and nor are they direct securities like stocks or government bonds. In effect they are still securities, however, they are a type of

derivative contract. The party agreeing to buy the underlying asset in the future goes long and the party agreeing to sell the asset in the future goes short. The price is determined by the instantaneous equilibrium between the forces of supply and demand among competing buy and sell orders on the exchange at the time of the purchase or sale of the contract. We look to trade both long and short contracts and therefore make profits from a falling market as much as we do from a rising market. Futures are an ideal instrument to capture profit in this way; it’s what we call capturing alpha! What do you need to become a Day Trader? Intellectually, a good strategy is needed to be successful but I need to repeat the obvious; good discipline, good risk controls, good money management and a thorough control of your emotions at all times. There is an old saying: “Any old fool knows when to buy but it is a wise old fool who knows when to sell”. We look to train and encourage our traders to become ‘wise old fools’. The basic tools of day trading include trading capital (to use as margin), trading software providing live time market information, a fast computer and good monitor, a fast internet connection and equally as important, a good live trading room environment in which to work. There are many Day Traders out there who are sitting at home staring at their screens all day long and lacking in inspiration and confidence to pull the trigger. We are operationally geared to provide all the tools of the trade as well as full time mentoring to help our traders find and stay in their groove.

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What are the downsides? “Where the carcass is there shall be eagles gathered together.” There is no question that day trading can be very risky, especially if traders lack discipline or have inadequate risk controls, or they execute trades poorly. The world’s financial markets can be unforgiving and dark clouds will soon gather round the trader who makes poor decisions rather like the eagles over the carcass. There are no short cuts, traders need to be trained carefully and they must understand the need for self discipline and control of perfectly natural human emotions that are always present when it comes to money! Greed and fear are powerful emotions and we look to teach traders how to overcome and remain rational at all times.

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How about emotional traits? Emotion is a huge component of a good Day Trader’s make up. I have already mentioned many important attributes that a trader needs but there is a great deal more that we look to teach. Every individual is different and will have a different reaction to news and events that move markets, plus they will have their own unique tolerances towards risk and objectives for profit from each trade. We believe that everyone needs to understand the discipline of trading alongside the patience and persistence that is required to trade profitably. Day Traders must be willing to accept losses as well as take profits. Knowing when to cut is as important a lesson as any trader will learn. Our traders also need to understand the need to be able to specialise in what they do so as to remain focused and committed to the trades. In essence we seek to help traders identify their emotional traits and then train them and help them to manage their emotions. What are the essential qualities of a successful Day Trader? We believe that to get to a level of expertise in the market, you need to understand the key qualities of a successful Day Trader. Despite the fact that day trading is the most speculative of aggrieve trading activities, the Day Trader trading futures who understands the demands of his trade is in fact the sharpshooter of speculation. With the proper preparation, the Day Trader can take aim and bag his prize and in so doing make a comfortable living. Indeed many make a significantly comfortable living and enjoy often untold wealth. The demands of day trading, however, are primarily psychological and character-driven, requiring strength of character and individual qualities including self-discipline, persistence, toughness, commitment and an ability and willingness to focus energy on a limited arena of activity. It is not the difficulty of Day Trading which limits the field but the ability and willingness of Day Traders to live by the personal requirements of the business.

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Here at A2A we aim to teach and train aspiring Day Traders about these disciplines and how to deal with the strong emotional aspects that will inevitably come to the fore for each and every Day Trader at some stage – probably every time they take a trade. Only a certain type of individual is emotionally equipped to deal with these requirements. A large part of our business is

“THERE ARE MANY DAY TRADERS OUT THERE WHO ARE SITTING AT HOME STARING AT THEIR SCREENS ALL DAY LONG AND LACKING IN INSPIRATION AND CONFIDENCE TO PULL THE TRIGGER.”

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focused on identifying the right character and building on all areas to encourage a professional and proďŹ table Day Trader. Where does A2ML ďŹ t into day trading? A2ML is a hedge fund manager with small pods of highly specialised traders and managers within a number of strategies under the brand Megalio Fund. We believe that it is entirely possible to blend the strong bottom-up skill sets of good Day Traders with strong top-down professional asset management techniques. Our sister company, A2A is dedicated and focused to train professional Day Traders, whereas A2ML is dedicated to managing only the very best of Day Traders. We believe that by encouraging quality individuals to become top quality Day Traders we will have the opportunity to pick the best from within our day trading operation and bring them over to our asset management business. We’ll set them up in a fund management environment with professional money at work rather than smaller proprietary capital. We have taken on six Day Traders within the past few months. They are all doing very well and we enjoy the working environment within our small but light and airy ofďŹ ce in the old part of Tunbridge Wells. Our traders enjoy their work surroundings and working atmosphere. This is important for everyone and we believe it will encourage growth and proďŹ tability for all. Our ambition is to build a big team of like minded professional Day Traders who will be offered a full service package and, after appropriate training and once levels of sufďŹ cient competence have been reached, we will back them to trade with our own capital within A2A. Meanwhile A2MLwill encourage and nurture those traders with the best track records and most potential to make it all the way. What might the future hold for your Day Traders? We are not here to speculate on the future of our Day Traders; rather we are here to train, encourage and help build the all round skills sets that are required. Those who are successful will, we hope, replicate the team of traders currently trading

DECEMBER 2010

the assets of our agship Megalio Vision Fund. With performance of over 284% net since February 2009 this team have been consistently proďŹ table month after month (bar a couple of months of small losses – maximum -4.02%) and we are now able to offer investors these returns through subscription to our fund products managed by our A2ML asset management business (to qualifying investors only). It should be noted that this team has many decades of experience which yet again emphasises that there is no short cut to success – as mentioned earlier. However, there are plenty of examples of people who come into the business and after only a relatively short period time (in some cases as little as 12 months) become hugely successful and ďŹ t into the character and mould of the perfect Day Trader with ease. What are the next steps for someone interested? The day trading business is growing rapidly. New technology is helping businesses like ours to offer increasingly sophisticated software services to access the world’s ďŹ nancial markets real time. We have built strong relationships with our own services providers to provide our Day Traders and business partners with a best of breed approach. Between us we are actively seeking talented, energetic and hard working individuals who believe they have what it takes to become a successful professional Day Trader. We also seek experienced professional Day Traders and wish to hear from people with a strong track record who might like to join us in our relaxed but professional ofďŹ ces. Interested individuals should contact our training and trading manager, Ken Otalor on +44 (0) 1892 731 083 or e-mail Ken at ken.otalor@a2arcades.com. Nicholas Edwards is CEO of the Alternative Asset Management group of companies providing specialist Day Trading and hedge fund management services, based in Tunbridge Wells, Kent. The Company manages PIF products (Professional Investor Funds) and provides services to eligible investors only, it does not provide services to ‘retail’ investors. The Company does not hold client money. A2ML is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority in the United Kingdom. Qualifying investors can access more information by visiting www.altasset.com. The group also provide training and trading services through Alternative Asset Management Limited (“A2MLâ€?). A2A is a ‘sister’ organisation providing specialist Day Trading services including training and trading to both experienced and new Day Traders.

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Secret Guildford

8A;G WORDS GEORGINA STEVENS

&KLOOLQJ DELVING INTO THE ARCHIVES THIS MONTH PRODUCED A TRULY CHILLING TALE. WE MIGHT BE HEADING FOR A FEW SNOWY MONTHS BUT LET’S HOPE WE ESCAPE THE ICE-AGE WEATHER THAT GRIPPED OUR TOWN IN THE WINTER OF 1962/63...

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Qow started to fall on Boxing Day night, just a tad too late for a white Christmas. There was a resounding sigh of disappointment mingled with the excitement of imminent snowy adventures...but little did the people of Guildford realise the icy weather would keep them in a vice-like grip for months to come.

By New Year’s Eve numerous roads were closed due to the treacherous snow drifts and emergency services were struggling to reach people stranded, injured or sick. The ďŹ rst issue of The Guildford and Godalming Times for 1963 reported the chaos the snow was bringing to everyday life. Milkmen were having a particularly tough time trying to negotiate their rounds in the ice. One, working out of Mead’s dairy in Shalford, started his shift at 5am and didn’t ďŹ nish until 8.30pm. He then had to make his way home to Guildford. Manual labourers were also hit hard. By the middle of January, the Guildford Labour exchange reported that up to 2000 men had been stood off. And with weather forecasts predicting more of the same, there would be further redundancies. People were rapidly tiring of the icy conditions as it impacted more and more on daily life. There was much sympathy for gravediggers who faced ďŹ ve inches of frozen ice before they could commence digging properly. It was a near impossible task and diggers reported that graves that had been painstakingly dug could not be ďŹ lled after the burials as the soil intended to ďŹ ll them had already frozen solid. One poor bride was forced to cancel her wedding reception for a second time, despite wading through the snow to meet her husband at Guildford Register OfďŹ ce. Unfortunately, not everyone had her dedication and most couldn’t make it to the Sunday ceremony, including bridesmaids and the best man!

DECEMBER 2010

The blizzards continued throughout February and the refreezing effect of mounting snow began to affect coal stocks. The merchants struggled to dig out the coal and personal supplies dwindled to nothing. There were few people lucky enough to have central heating and even before the lack of coal, home life was a struggle with the sub zero temperatures. Blankets were piled high in attempts to keep warm. Plumbers faced high demand and tedious work. Frozen pipes appeared endemic and meant crawling around in frozen roof spaces and thawing pipes with a blowtorch. Complaints from cold and disgruntled readers of The Surrey Advertiser were met with short shrift from local merchants; they countered with tales of frozen machinery and railway trucks. Despite the hardship, the weekends provided some light relief with pilgrimages to Shalford Park to skate on the ice of the ooded meadows. The borough quickly realised the potential for proďŹ t in skating activities and began charging sixpence (2.5p) a time – quite the money-spinner when you think over one thousand people come to skate at the park some days. It seemed as though the freezing weather would never end but eventually, on Saturday 23 March, The Guildford and Godalming Times reported happily that ‘’the iron grip of winter has given way at last to the velvet touch of spring.’’ Here’s keeping ďŹ ngers crossed... 62

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