Absolute Fashion June Issue

Page 1

100th issue!

will younG ExcLUSIvE INTERvIEw

BriGhTon Fashion week

ISSUE 100 . JUNE 2013

100

reasons why we love

BriGhTon



Complimentary colour consultations with our award winning technical team

GET BEAUTIFUL HAIR

FROM THE EXPERTS AT TREVOR SORBIE BRIGHTON At Trevor Sorbie Brighton, our philosophy is all about helping your hair to look and feel its best. Hair care individually designed around your look and lifestyle that can be effortlessly recreated at home. From a beautiful cut to amazing new colour, our award-winning team of stylists and technicians have all been handpicked and trained to a meticulously high standard by Trevor and his business partner, Brighton Salon Director, Kate Wilson.

To book:

01273 220007 www.trevorsorbie.com

TREVOR SORBIE BRIGHTON, 1B NILE ST, BRIGHTON, SUSSEX BN1 1HW

Kate Wilson is also the salon’s Technical Director and heads up the salon’s award winning technical team - colour specialists who also offer perming and straightening treatments and hold the prestigious L’Oreal Professionnel Colour Specialist degree. Complimentary colour consultations are always available with every member of the technical team, who are happy to offer you their expert advice on your hair – simply call the salon to book.


Issue 100. June 2013

inside this month

Publisher: Alan Prior

Editor: Ian Trevett

Commercial Manager: Emma Meldrum

Sales Executive: Laura Beddoe

46

Business Development Manager: Alex Santos

32 Will Young Sales Executive: Luke Thacker

Exclusive interview. The singer and actor on Brighton and his future plans

Fashion & Beauty Editor: Kate Morton

Production Manager: Michael Brooks

Designer: Dominic Loosemore

Designer: Sally Wynn

Art Editor: Jamie McCartney

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Food Editor: Nick Mosley

Writer: Daniel White

6 Brighton Fashion Week Don’t miss the ultimate Brighton showcase of creativity that is Brighton Fashion

Editorial Assistant: Iszara Morgan.

Absolute Publications Ltd The Pinnacle Group Premier House 11 Marlborough Place BRIGHTON BN1 1UB

Week. This month we have turned our fashion pages into a showcase for the event.

GuestList

At a Glance guestlist What? Boundary Club Where? Brightonandhovejobs.com County Ground

Fashion 6

Food 50

Health / Beauty 21

What’s On 56

Columnists 33

Herbie Flowers 60

The Brighton100 36

Art 62

Travel 42

Film 66

Will Young 46

Education 72

Why? Business networking over

Tel: 08707 707 765 Fax: 08700 052 082 info@absolutemagazine.co.uk www.absolutemagazine.co.uk

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2

lunch during the Sussex Warwickshire match Who?

1.Jon Filby, Jennifer Harrington and Mark Davies 2. Nick Feeney and Luca Albertoli 3. Emma Briant and Poppy Atkins 4. Paul O’Brien and Martin Kaye 5. Rob Pelling and Katie Bowmer 6. Stacey Hunt and Paul Severn 7. Aston McLennen, Victoria Regan and Hamish Smith 7

8. Rochelle Rekowski-Donovan and Judith Appleton 8

9. Trish Breach and Gavin Potter 10. Karim Mohammed, Amelia Stone, Luke Mound and Lee Mansfield 11. Mark Newman, Lucy Dawe and Chris Mansfield 12. Martin Luffman, Dan Maskell and Mark Bennett

9 4

If you would like your event in Absolute Brighton contact our sales team at guestlist@absolutemagazine.co.uk

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Absolute Brighton and Pinnacle would like to thank the advertisers that appear in this publication for their support, and wish them every business success. The contents of this publication are believed to be correct at the time of printing; nevertheless, we cannot endorse, and readers should not rely solely upon, the accuracy of any statements or claims contained herein, without prior consultation with the service provider.

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Photographs by Rosebery Images and Trevor Mould 44

All the big events from across the city

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Absolute Art

GALLERY SPY A Cloud on the Horizon

By Jamie McCartney

It’s not on the horizon actually, it’s tucked down an alleyway I never knew existed, at the far end of Brighton Place. It’s also only

SCULPTURE VULTURE It’s not a flippin’ donut, ok?? I bet that’s what Hamish Black would like to shout every day about his name-changing sculpture on the end of the groyne by the pier. I would ask him to comment but I can’t be bothered. I come from the ‘never let the truth get in the way of a good story’ school of journalism.

Closer inspection will also show that lines of longitude form regular,

forgiven if you haven’t yet discovered Cloud

radial grooves around its surface along with these deeply recessed

Gallery, the most recent addition to Brighton’s

continents. So what you have is a sort of globe (if a pretty weird one).

art scene. Nestling in the South Lanes this is a

Don’t worry if it doesn’t instantly say ‘globe’ to you; it is only inspired

lovely little gallery space, set over two floors.

by one. It’s a ‘taurus form’ apparently, which is what would happen

To find it, just walk past Donatello’s, keep going

if you took a badly inflated beach ball globe and pushed the poles

and turn right at the end. It’s worth it…

inwards until they touched. See? Now it makes sense.

Don’t worry though, it’s all going to be fascinating anyway. So, as you know there is a huge, green, bronze bagel by the pier. It’s been there ages. The thing is, most people have no idea why it’s there or what it’s all about. To most of Brighton’s denizens and the odious steam of badly dressed grockles that make the beach so untidy and uninviting it’s just ‘The Bagel’ or ‘The Donut’ and that’s it. Well not any more, I’m about to spoil the mystery or put you out of your misery

been there since the end of March, so you are

have studied in Geography lessons, before Google replaced learning.

Offering an ever-changing selection of originals,

The thing about public art, though, is that whatever the inspiration,

limited edition prints and sculptures, priced

with the best will in the world most people just won’t get it. Frankly,

when I visited from £75 to £7000, there is

why should they? Some kind of explanation posted nearby might have

something there for all tastes and all pockets.

been a service to the artist and to the public who may be persuaded

That’s what is quite clever about Cloud, they

to read about the sculpture rather than write on it. Duh!! Why

mix and match a lot of different themes and

do they never put plaques to help us understand? You get them in

and shine a dim spotlight onto the proscenium of Brighton’s streets

galleries. Why not on the street? It’s not expensive!

and squares. That’s what ‘Sculpture Vulture’ is all about. I’m spilling

What is amazing to me is that Brighton Borough Council did at least

styles of artworks in one gallery. The walls are busy with vibrant abstracts, beach scenes, animals, nudes and still lifes all vying for your

the beans on Brighton’s public art. What’s the sentence for defacing a

get something right when they commissioned a seaside sculpture with

landmark with tinned legumes?

attention. If you have a bit of wall or a niche

a nautical theme, that didn’t involve dolphins, mermaids, ships or other

you’d like to fill with art but don’t know what

Anyway, back to you, because you don’t want me drifting off message too far. The sculpture of which I speak is actually called ‘Afloat’ and is not in fact a completely stupid waste of bronze. Nobody in their

such dross that litters every seaside town from here to Blackpool and

you want, this is a great place to start. Laura,

back. Just think; we could have had another bloomin’ anchor, slick with

the delightful manageress, will talk you through

a hundred years of bad black paintwork instead.

right mind would make a huge bronze donut and nobody

the collection in plain English, avoiding all the art nonsense.

The point is that once erected and left to the whims of the

would pay for it (except maybe in America). So if

public, sculptures inevitably do take on a life of their

you were to slip down to the aforementioned

The group also has established galleries in

own. That is what is quite nice about this piece

groyne one morning (when the clucking

in a way. It is what you want it to be and if

hens and braying stags aren’t there)

crayon critics want it to be a billboard

and have a proper look at it you will

Worthing and Chester. By rotating the work

ART NEWS AND EVENTS

between them there is always new art to see whenever you visit. Come back in two weeks

then so be it. Most of us though would affectionately, The donut, and that’s

SALES

and half of it will have changed. Cloud has

it, scattered between the stupid graffiti. These shapes you will

fine. But if you want more information

Catch the studio relocation sale at Jamie McCartney Studios

of the most collectable artwork in the UK.

notice there are shapes cut into

welcome from the editor...

112

seem to want it to be something else:

an enviable reputation for supplying some

soon recognise as the outlines

about the artist and his art it can be

and Brighton Body Casting. Sculptures and Scanographic

Their portfolio includes the UK’s bestselling

of various continents you may

found at: www.hamishblack.com

Portrait Photographs prices are slashed as low as cost price.

artist Kerry Darlington, award-winning

They’ll never be this affordable again!

artists Mackenzie Thorpe and Sandra Orme,

www.jamiemccartney.com

and highly sought after sculptures by Emma Rodgers. They also show work by local and

Absolute is 100!

national emerging talent, which is good for new

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artists and for canny collectors looking for

ARTISTS INFO

the next star. There was something unnerving

The Sussex Artists Club wants you!! Social and Business networking for local artists and arts professionals. Meetings every month at pubs and bars in central Brighton. This month

but memorable about Toby Meader’s sheep portraits painted with real sheep’s wool and named after pop stars. Nice and innovative and

it’s at The Blue Man on Queen Street. See the website for

a bit bonkers, that’s what I like. Have a wander

details: www.sussexartistsclub.com

down to Cloud and check it out before it all gets rotated… www.cloudgalleryfineart.co.uk

The magazine started in January 2005 and eight years later we are still going strong. Local magazines have come and gone, but Absolute is still here. I’d like to thank everyone who has supported the magazine over the last eight years and look forward to the next 100 issues! In the meantime we celebrate with the 100 things we love about Brighton. Email us if we have left anything out!

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Festival Fever

Travel

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By Phoebe Oliver

2013 was the most successful year yet for the May Festivals in Brighton. Our city once again transformed into the epicentre of cutting edge music, dance, visual art, free events, outdoor performance, spoken word, theatre and film. Covering our clock tower in shirts, landing an Airship outside St Peters Church and providing a world exclusive La Clique show – complete with sequined clad blue rabbit and saucy cowgirls…….is there any better place to be in May I ask you? But once the clean-up has finished and props have been stored for another year where else would we travel to find a great UK festival? This month Absolute Travel offer you a few more options to help you continue your cultural calendar – and a couple more which look just plain fun……

A location similar in character to Brighton & Hove in many ways is the Harbour town of St Ives.

The Henley Festival

year, there’s something for everyone …

The Rhythmtree Festival on the Isle of Wight is a three day festival (19th to 21st July) offering a much smaller more intimate atmosphere than many UK festivals with a strong focus on world music – everything from didgeridoos to Cajun dance, from African drums to Samba!

St Ives festival is sponsored by Cornish Gems which have over 100 luxury

The event offers entertainment across three stages in a gorgeous rural

St Ives holds an annual September festival full to the brim with music, performance arts and literature events. It’s a small and unassuming festival but its growing yearly with over 300 events last year, and even more this

holiday homes, cottages and apartments throughout Cornwall and over 50

setting at Three Gates Farm, in the quaint village of Calbourne, to the

are in St. Ives itself. The company are extending our Absolute readers 10%

west of the Isle of Wight. This year’s acts include Dele Sosimi’s Afrobeat

discount if they quote a promo ref: ABSOLUTESSF13. This offer applies to

Vibration, the London Bulgarian Choir, Two Man Ting, The Goat Roper

all September holidays booked via Cornish Gems when the Festival is taking

Rodeo Band and Maharaja Blues and more, plus late night DJs in the

place (arrivals 13-29th Sep). www.stivesseptemberfestival.co.uk

RhumbaRumBar each night.

Alternatively the very central www.stiveshousestives.com brings stylish

Accommodation includes a Camping package where you can spend

beach-front self-catering to a prime spot beside the sweeping white sands

the weekend camping in the gorgeous scenery of Calbourne for the

of Porthminster beach, ideal for families or groups of up to six. It is equally

Rhythmtree Festival from just £47pp. This price is based on two adults

suited to a luxury bucket and spade ‘staycation’, or a sophisticated adult

and two children (aged 0 – 12) attending and includes camping for the

getaway to enjoy the artistic scene and gourmet restaurants this West

weekend, access to the festival each day, and return car vehicle crossings

Cornish town is justly famous for. www.youtube.com/watch?v=tTNp1GL4F0g

with Red Funnel. There is also a guest house package where you can spend the weekend on the Isle of Wight for the Rhythmtree Festival this summer from just

£84pp. This price is based on two adults and two children (aged 0 – 12) sharing an en suite family room at Littledene Lodge on the Isle of Wight, with day tickets for the festival on Saturday and Sunday (£30 per adult, per day, children aged 0 – 12 go free), and includes return vehicle crossings with Red Funnel. See www.redfunnel.co.uk for further details and to book.

Anyone for Pimms? For something a little smarter why not try the The Henley Festival? The event is a 5 night, black tie festival on the banks of the River Thames from 10 – 14th July. This year they have headline performances on the floating stage from the likes of The Beach Boys, Jamie Cullum, Madness & Paloma Faith plus Joanna Lumley hosts a special bond themed gala evening along with a host of comedy performances, street theatre, art, dance, fashion etc.

St Ives

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42 Travel. 62 Art

60 Herbie Flowers

If the Festival month of May wasn’t

The Sussex Festival of Music takes place

enough for you, Phoebe Oliver presents

at the cricket ground from June 21st

her guide to some of the best festivals in

- 23rd. The compere and organiser of

the UK this summer.

the Jazz and family music events is the

Meanwhile, Jamie McCartney explains

much-loved Herbie Flowers. Absolute

one of the city’s biggest mysteries:

met Herbie to talk about his illlustrious

Why is there a donut on our sea-front?

music career, working with stars

Is it even a donut anyway? All will be

including Paul McCartney and David

revealed.

Bowie.

Photo Madly

36

You will notice a big chnage to the magazine this month. We have recently introduced new sport and business sections, and this month we launch our new upmarket property section. With these strong new features, we have decided to split the magazine in two to allow the sections to grow. On this side we have fashion, culture, education and dining. Flip the magazine over for property, interiors, motors, sport and business. We hope you find that this change makes it easier to find your favourite features. The amazing festival month of may is now over, but the great thing about Brighton is that there is no such thing as a quiet month. Three big events dominate the month of June: Brighton Fashion Week, The Eco Tech show and The Sussex Festival of Music. We feature all three in the magazine. Thank you for your support for the first 100 issues.

Ian Trevett Editor

36 The Brighton 100 Absolute is 100 issues young. To celebrate we feature with 100 things we love about Brighton. Sometimes it is good to shout out loud about why Brighton is a great place to live

Cover shot from Brighton Fashion Week. Designer: Uta Bekaia & Ideal Glass New York Photographer: Ayaka May Komatsu 5


It’s Showtime

WE CELEBRATE THE RETURN OF BRIGHTON FASHION WEEK WITH AN EXCLUSIVE DESIGNER SHOWCASE


Fashion

Designer: Belles Bejewelled (Zeitgeist show). Photographer: Toria Brightside. Opposite page: Designer: Frances O’Leary (Zeitgeist show). Photographer: Rory Payne.

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Fashion

Designer: Liora Lassalle (Sustain show). Image: A still from the film ‘The Wig and the Triangle’, directed by Magali Charrier. Opposite page: Andrew Bannister Studio_805 (Zeitgeist show). Photographer: Amarpaul Kalirai.

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Designer: Brian Chan (Zeitgeist show). Photographer: Artur Drazkowski.


Fashion

Designer: George May (Sustain show). Photographer: Kirstin Prisk.

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Spring into Summer at...

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TREVOR SORBIE -

THE AWARD WINNING HAIR EXPERTS At Trevor Sorbie Brighton we are

brought to life through our salon motto

incredibly proud of our award-winning

“go that extra mile”. It is this dedication

team of stylists and technicians; headed

that saw the salon put through to the

up by Salon Director and British

finals of the 2011 British Hairdressing

Hairdressing Business Awards 2011

Business Salon of the Year Award. In

Manager of the Year, Kate Wilson

2012 Anna Chapman was a finalist for

(pictured left) .The Brighton Salon team

Southern Hairdresser of the Year at

have been handpicked by Kate and

the British Hairdressing Awards, and

Trevor, and trained to meticulously high

Sam Chapman and Rosie Tappin were

standards. There is a real sense of team

runners-up for Best Men’s Image at the

spirit in the salon, which translates to

L’Oréal Colour Trophy.

outstanding customer service and is Kate herself is one of the most accomplished

distinguished, knowledgeable and respected

technical talents working in British Hairdressing

names in the hairdressing industry. Kate’s first

today, With 28 years in the business, including

task as judge was to join her fellow professionals

working for colour giants L’Oreal for 5 years

at the live regional finals of the L’Oreal Young

prior to joining Trevor, Kate truly is an expert in

Colourist Trophy which took place in Manchester

all areas of hair coloring; she not only holds the

and London.

L’Oreal Colour Degree but helped develop the Degree course itself and in 2013.This month Kate joined the prestigious judging panel for the L’Oreal Professionnel Colour Trophy. The judging panel is made up of many of the most On Saturday, June 1 the Trevor

help achieve his aim, clients will be

Sorbie salon in Nile Street, Brighton

asked to make a donation of £50

will be staging a round- the-clock

in return for the perfect haircut.

hairdressing marathon in aid of

For those unable to schedule an

Brighton charity, Rockinghorse.

appointment on June 1, but wishing

The salon’s Senior Top Stylist

to support James in his charity hair

James Leach (picture right) aims

marathon, there is the opportunity

to raise funds for Rockinghorse

to donate via James’s Just Giving

by performing as many haircuts

page at: www.justgiving.com/

as possible in a 24-hour period. To

TrevorSorbie24

Trevor Sorbie Brighton offers a wide array of hair services including cutting & blow-drying, personalised colour appointments and a range of smoothing services to suit all hair types.To book an appointment with any of our stylist or technicians; simply call the salon or email brightonbookings@trevorsorbie.com

TREVOR SORBIE BRIGHTON, 1B NILE ST, BRIGHTON, SUSSEX BN1 1HW 01273 220007 www.trevorsorbie.com


cut or colour in June or July & receive a


s s e c n i r P r o i r ar W Aztec prints are the look of the summer. From desert inspired fabrics to bright beads, feathers and pom poms, fashion goes tribal this month. 1.

5.

3.

6.

9.

10.

4. 2.

7.

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8.

1. ‘Aadarshini’ dress, £95, Monsoon, 42 East Street, Brighton 0844 8110 068 2. Silk paisley dress, £250, Jaeger, 12 Pavilion Parade, Brighton 0845 051 0063 3. Mirror Aztec bodycon dress, £10, Primark, 169-174 Western Road, Brighton 0118 9606 300 4. Tribal cut out dress, £35, River Island, Churchill Square Shopping Centre, Brighton 0844 576 6444 5. Red Herring dress, £40, Debenhams, Churchill Square Shopping Centre, Brighton 0844 561 6161 6. Mirror pom pom top, £10, Primark, 169-174 Western Road, Brighton 0118 9606 300 7. ‘Una’ skirt, £20, Beyond Retro, 42 Vine Street, Brighton 01273 671937 8. Aztec bobble bracelet, £8, Accessorize, Churchill Square Shopping Centre, Brighton 0844 8110 068 9. Tribal print dress, £28, River Island, Churchill Square Shopping Centre, Brighton 0844 576 6444 10. Feather earrings, £12, Accessorize, Churchill Square Shopping Centre, Brighton 0844 811 0068 11. Pom pom rucksack, £55, Urban Outfitters, Churchill Square Shopping Centre, Brighton www.urbanoutfitters.com


Fashion

Be Cool and Stay Cool Men’s fashion tips from Igor Srzic-Cartledge

I

love the spring and summer season- playing with different styles and bright colours. The “must have” this spring summer is a pair of very bright trousers.Once more chinos are on our high streets and they are in very bright colours again.Those looking for a pair of chinos with longevity should consider a more subdued shade. We’ll see all the colours of the rainbow around Brighton this summer, and what better place then here. Starting from rusty reds, through salmon pinks, sea blues and bright greens. If you love short shorts this is your season – and if you don’t, you don’t have much choice although you could try to mix a bright colour trousers with a plain white or grey t shirts. A very popular look this spring summer is a black suit jacket with tailored shorts in any colour, made eccentric by adding a bow tie and funky shirt.This combination has been seen regularly at all major fashion shows. I do love this look it is very different and unusual but I must admit that you need to have a of lot of courage to carry it off and be prepared for people to notice and comment. If you have lots of confidence you should go for an even bolder look with a very bright jacket. A great combination is salmon pink shorts,with a green shirt and funky tie with very dark navy or black smart suede shoes. Double breasted jackets are in too, this season, with peak lapels and again, in very bright colours. Go for a bright red one with a white shirt and a colourful bow tie or tie for a more relaxed and casual look. For a more casual look you can always wear the jacket with bright trousers. Whether your are looking for traditional suiting or unusual separates be adventurous with colour to bring new life and touch of flair to your formal wear.

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Big bags are a key look and another “must have” this season.The bigger and the brighter the better. You can fit quite a lot in them - at least a couple of lap tops, or I pads, your lunch, gym gear and much much more..... But big, bright bags are not for everyone and if you are not sure that you’ll be able to pull it off, go for something much smaller and not as bright and noticeable.

For shoes, a good casual look is very bright lofters available in whole range of colours and for smarter occasions some darker coloured brogues. So guys get ready for the summer and start shopping. Get out of your comfort zone and try something different that’s not boring old “you”. If you need any help you can contact me www.personal-style.co.uk


ABSOLEIGHT Classic Watches from James Ross Jewellers With its uniquely refined 1930s Art Deco style this steel and 18k gold Reverso Lady graces the feminine wrist.This iconic reversible watch, endured with refined classicism.This Reverso sits on a new leather band with a Jaeger-Lecoultre stainless steel deployment clasp.it comes with our two year warranty and it’s original box..............£2995. The Rolex Lady Datejust Is iconic, crafted from 904L steel and 18ct gold it has been the market leader since its launch in 1945. This Datejust has a stunning white dial with gilt hands, it sits on its original Jubilee bracelet with concealed crownclasp, which is in beautiful condition.The watch has been serviced and comes with our two year warranty............£4495 The Tudor Mini-Sub is the mid sized version of the iconic Rolex Submariner,these watches have become very popular since Tudors fantastic Heritage range come on to the market.This Mini-Sub has unmarked silver dial and polished stainless steel bezel,it sits on its original Tudor bracelet. The watch has been serviced and comes with our two year warranty also included is the original box. .......£1495. The Rolex Submariner is the archetypal diving watch, reference 5513 is one of the most collectible.This Rolex sub has an original gilt dial witch is in fantastic condition and original hands, the look is completed by a beautifully faded original bezel insert.The case is sharp with no heavy polishing, the Sub sits on a rare 20mm riveted oyster bracelet.This is as good as it gets, especially if your looking for an investment grade watch, also included is a period Rolex box.The watch has been serviced, and comes with our two year warranty.............£7995.

James Ross Jewellers Family Jewellers for generations 29 Station Road, Portslade, Brighton BN41 1GB

www.jamesrossjewellers.co.uk email: info@jamesrossjewellers.co.uk Tel/Fax: 01273 239763

Cartier has always been about style,with the Santos they celebrate there heritage.At the turn of the 20th century, Louis Cartier designed one of the first ever wristwatches for his friend,adventurer Alberto Santos-Dumont.Like the original today’s Santos is robust, stylish and technical.This Santos has its original Cartier bracelet, jewelled crown and box and papers.The watch also comes with our two year warranty............£1995. Breitling Navitimer 806 Circa 1960s The name Navitimer is the combination of the words Navigation and Timer, since the watch was originally developed as a navigation watch for pilots, who could use the sliderule to calculate remaining distances, fuel consumption ect. This Navitimer without doubt is one of the best we have seen, the original dial shows just the perfect amount of patina, the case is sharp and completes the look! The watch comes on a new leather strap with a stainless steel deployment clasp and a rare original instruction manual, it has been serviced and carries our two year Warranty.............£3750.

Vacheron Constantin was founded in 1755 by. Jean-Marc Vacheron, this makes them one of the oldest watch manufacturers, since that date the company has always been associated with top quality time pieces. This Vacheron is full sized and comes with an unmarked 18k solid gold case,original stunning champagne coloured dial with applied gold batons, the hands are also original.The watch is placed on a new quality leather strap and comes with a Vacheron and Constanin box, it has been serviced and comes with our two year warranty.A truly superb gentleman’s timepiece from the 1950s.............£3995. The story of Omega’s space watch, ‘The Speedmaster Professional’, is cemented in history, the only watch to be approved by NASA!.This Speedmaster is one of the limited addition “Missons” series.This is number 3 from a total 23 celebrating the Gemini 5 mission completed by Gordon Cooper and Peter Conrad.Released in 1997 this watch is in very good condition and comes with the rare Omega Missions box and a full set of papers, it has been serviced and comes with our two year warranty .........£2995



Corset Engineering To mark Brighton Fashion Week, Iszara Morgan meets founder of Curve Couture, Chrissie Nicholson Wild, who will be showcasing her work at the ShowReel Show

B

righton based designer Curve

business and my toddler. Eroticism is core

Couture is hitting the catwalks

to my designs, sensuality, historicism and

of Brighton Fashion Week’s

fetish.”

ShowReel this year. Having

Chrissie believes that Brighton Fashion

been described as Brighton’s best

Week is a great stepping stone for herself

kept secret,Curve Couture specialises

and other designers as well as bringing

in elite luxury corsets and lingerie as

innovation to the city and local businesses.

their mainline products and branches

“I think it’s great to see fashion be

out providing a bespoke service for

celebrated for a week in Brighton. The

evening wear, costumes and wedding dress

other arts have a whole month to show off

design. The brand pride themselves in

in May and it’s great that fashion is being

individuality and ethical values, they will

taken just as seriously as any other of the

never make the same garment twiceand

arts. It brings prestige, glamour, a sense

only use the right amount of material for

of occasion and credibility to Brighton’s

each garment made.

fashion scene. With so many independent

Despite being in the business over eight

designers and boutiques in Brighton it’s

years, founder of Curve Couture Chrissie

great for business and important to declare

Nicholson-Wild doesn’t consider herself a

Brighton a unique fashion hub.

fashion designer, “I consider myself more of

“It is great to get your work out there

a clothes engineer than a fashion designer,

in the big wide world. It’s incredibly hard

bridging the divide between costume and

to make your mark in a saturated world,

couture. In my work the corset has centre

especially if you’re a one man team,

stage, it is my first love of fashion”.

Brighton Fashion Week can potentially be a

This is Curve Couture’s first year at

leap onto bigger and better opportunities.”

Brighton Fashion Week and corsetiere

It is obvious that Brighton Fashion Week

Chrissie decided to get involved due to

will be an invaluable platform for Curve

changes in her life. “The birth of my son

Couture and to many other designers and

changed my whole outlook on how I

local businesses, not just within the City

worked and how I approach life; I moved

but in the rest of UK too.

my studio home and re-focused my designs on the thing I loved making the most, corsets. I am really excited to show my latest designs in an environment that suits them. I have a lovely website but it’s not the same as seeing clothes in the ‘flesh’ the textures, the flow of the garment, the movement of the fabric.” There is no doubt that Chrissie is passionate about her work, when talking about her designs, “I enjoy the variety and challenge of working on a wide range

Brighton Fashion WEEk BFW takes place from 13th - 16th June, showcasing 45 new and upcoming designers at St Bartholomew’s Church. The show is renowned for approaching fashion in a unique and extravagant way, enabling designers to push the boundaries and spread their creative wings. Over the past decade the show has supported new and established designers on their way to success and this year will be no exception. The event is divided up into four different shows the Zeitgesit Show, Sustain, ShowReel and the High Street Show. www.brightonfashionweek.com

of commissions that fit around my core

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Get flawless in a flash this summer at Beauty Secrets If you’re getting married this summer or attending one of many high society events from Ladies Day at the races to polo in the park, then look no further than Beauty Secrets to get you looking glam.

Express yourself in high definition HD Brows is the ultimate celebrity brow treatment and it has arrived at Beauty Secrets. HD Brows is a high definition procedure that instantly transforms your brows, using seven unique techniques to perfectly style your eyebrows.

Instant glamour that lasts for weeks Let’s go Lashes is an amazing semi-permanent eyelash treatment designed to give you ultra alluring lashes in double quick time. This revolutionary treatment will give you instant glamour and perfect lashes for up to two weeks.

65 Western Road, Hove 01273 822476 www.beautysecretsspa.co.uk beautysecretssalonandspa

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The only place for pure indulgence

Products and Treatments for Men

Industry leaders in results driven Beauty and Aesthetic treatments for men and women in Brighton and Sussex.

Sophie

THE TREATMENT ROOMS 21 NEW ROAD, BRIGHTON BN1 1UF Tel: 01273 818444 info@thetreatmentrooms.com

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BEAUTY BOX WITH KATE MORTON

STAR PRODUCT Sometimes you just can’t rely on the British summer to get that much needed glow, so that’s why sunless tanners are always top of our list. Wave goodbye to orange streaky tans with Decleor’s Aroma Sun Expert self tanning milk. Infused with Tahiti vanilla, jasmine and rose, this non greasy formula will give you a natural long lasting glow, whilst preparing your skin for the sun by boosting its natural defences. This is a beach holiday in a bottle. £24 Available from Beauty Secrets, Hove 01273 822476

BEAUTY EDITOR LOVES... Organise your everyday essentials with the Aromatherapy Associates ‘Little Beauty Bags’. These beautifully designed pastel patterned cosmetic bags are a holiday favourite and come with separate compartments to help organise your bulkier items from your miniatures. The Treatment Rooms are offering both the large and small wash bags complete with Aromatherapy Associates products as part of a special offer. From £54 (while stocks last). Available from The Treatment Rooms, Brighton 01273 818444

POW WOW Be sure to be wow’d by this breakthrough hair colour range by Colour Wow. These innovative products have been designed to give perfect hair colour everyday and could just be the summer’s hottest hair range. Not only spelling the end of roots, they solve many other colour treated hair issues including brassy tones. The range includes the Root Cover Up which tackles grey roots and dark regrowth, Brass Banned Mousse – a lavender tinted mousse to counteract harsh tones, Pop and Lock Shellac, Colour Security shampoo and conditioner and a styling cream. From £9 Available from Space NK, 01273 776774

CANDY GIRL Always first with the next big thing in colours and nail art, the Fairground Collection is the latest range from Ciaté. Inspired by days at the fairground, their new summer paint pots include five sugared crème shades and four glitter paint pots. Choose from Ferris Wheel, Candy Floss, Rollercoaster and Carousel to name a few. We love Spinning Teacup, a dainty pale lilac shade, perfect for parties. £9 www.ciate.co.uk

CORAL ISLAND It’s the colour of the seaon and suits everyone. From redheads to blondes, brunettes to English roses, there’s a coral lipstick for everyone. Take inspiration from this season’s beauty trends and where it with a natural, shimmering complexion, as seen at Valentino and Dolce & Gabbana. For luminous matte lips, we love Chanel’s new Rouge Allure Velvet lipstick in La Favorite for an intense satin finish. £25 Available from department stores nationwide


Beautiful Ink Working together we create and style eyebrows using semi permanent pigments 100’s of client photos on our website, before, after and healed New eyebrows take 2 visits, the first about 2 hours, consultation, eyebrow design and tattooing. The second is a top up visit a month or so later. For those with sparse, missing, wonky or wild brows, eyebrow design only sessions are available

Consultations are free • Beautiful Ink is a private home studio • Just off Western Road, 5 minutes from Churchill Square • Defining eyes and colouring lips also available • Micro needling for scars coming soon

www.beautifulink.co.uk 0800 987 5457 07530 978856

B

eautiful Ink is a semi permanent make up studio in central Brighton that focuses on tattooing (Semi Permanent) eyebrows, eyes and lips. Lisa Henning the founder of Beautiful Ink is on a mission to change people’s perception of semi permanent make up. Iszara Morgan went along to meet Lisa and ask her questions about semi permanent make up. Lisa instantly made her feel relaxed and welcome. How long does it last? The colour will last in the region of 9-18 months before needing an annual top up. The reason you would need a top up is that the colours start to fade or change. Without topping up it may fade to a colour that isn’t acceptable, just like colouring your hair and not keeping it up. Lifestyle, sun, and skin types all have an effect on the pigment, and how long it will last. Why is it semi permanent? The molecules are far smaller than tattoo pigment; therefore the

needles are smaller, with the molecules being so small they are almost translucent, with colour needing to be built up, rather than being seen straight away. Any tattoo pigment changes colour in the sun and because semi permanent pigment is far smaller it can change and disappear over time. Does it hurt? Without numbing creams, yes it would, there is no shame in using numbing creams because I will be going over the same area quite a lot of times. Most people actually find it ok. I’m pretty good at knowing what people are feeling so I always make sure people are comfortable. Do you have a signature eyebrow? Absolutely not, I really enjoy tinkering around with designs and working together with a client until we get a shape that suits their face, not just me drawing a shape on their face. I ask people to make faces, frown and raise their eyebrows, to check the eyebrow suits any face that you make. I give honest advice, for example if someone wants a ‘fashion’ eyebrow shape that goes beyond their

natural brow, I won’t do it, as it won’t be a good long term shape. What do they look like when they are healing and how long does that take? Each treatment is different. Let’s focus on eyebrows; they will be darker for 3 to 5 days because you have got excess pigment in the skin that hasn’t yet shed. I explain to the client how to prevent scabbing and give them some ointment cream. During healing, the pigment can fade quite considerably, settling into the skin over the next 2 or 3 weeks, and after a month you come back for a top up to refine and add more colour as needed. I think it’s safe to say Lisa is very passionate about what she does and wants to give you a clear idea of what semi permanent makeup can do for you, not only for the immediate but the long term. You can see 100’s of before/after and healed pictures on her website, more information and other FAQ’s www.beautifulink.co.uk


DADDY COOL

Spruce up your dad this Father’s Day with stylish skincare designed for the modern day man.

Maca Root Shave Cream, £8, The Body Shop, Brighton 01273 327048

Nickel Shaving Brush by Penhaligon’s, £58, Penhaligon’s is available from David Redman, 01273 205420

ESPA Brightener for men, £34, The Grand Spa, Brighton 01273 224313

Calvin Klein Eternity Summer for men, £33, available in department stores nationwide

Clarins Men After Shave Soother, £23, Boots, Brighton 01273 207461

Babyliss I-Stubble Beard Trimmer, £60, Boots, Brighton 01273 207461

The Refinery Revitalising Moisturiser, £38, The Treatment Rooms 01273 818444

Body-warming Sport Balm, £18, Molton Brown, Brighton, 01273 730115

Bleu De Chanel Shower Gel, £26, available in department stores nationwide


What to expect at Nuffield Health Cancer care We understand how the diagnosis of cancer is very worrying, and traumatic, for all of those involved. We can provide a safe, comfortable environment for our patients and those that matter to them. We have the use of a diagnostic suite, to enable us to reach a diagnosis or solve a problem. We aim to provide results as soon as we can as we understand the importance of getting results to help manage onward treatment. As a hospital, we can provide the service of a Macmillan Cancer Nurse Specialist to support patients and their families during this time of uncertainty. Our personalised approach to cancer treatment means that your individual needs are at the heart of everything we do. And because we know what a worrying time it can be, we go out of our way to make you feel as comfortable as possible. Whatever your stage of treatment, we have a dedicated team to support you. You’ll get to know them, and they’ll get to know you, which means you won’t have to keep explaining things to new people. All of our consultants also work with the NHS and are experts in their fields. So you always get top quality care at every stage of your treatment, in a relaxing Nuffield Health environment.

Children If your child needs to visit a hospital it’s be a worrying time for the whole family. That’s why we do everything we can to make your child’s stay as stress-free as possible, including working with some of the most experienced paediatricians, leaving you to

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concentrate on the most important thing for your child - helping them get better. On your child’s arrival there will be a Nuffy Bear waiting for them (which they can take home at the end of their stay). Our Hospital provides comprehensive, expert care for children and young people and our services include both inpatient and outpatient services, plus a wide range of consultant clinics and surgical care. We have an open visitor policy, so your child can enjoy the comfort and support of having friends and family visit anytime. We also provide facilities for parents to stay, friendly nurses, private rooms with en-suite shower rooms.

Cosmetic surgery We’ve been helping people look and feel better long before the term ‘cosmetic surgery’ was invented. More than 50 years later, we have a wide network of expert professionals and specialists at our hospitals all over the UK. Meeting your consultant is the first step towards achieving your goal. It’s a big decision and having cosmetic surgery can seem like a giant step, but it’s a step that could make a huge difference to the way you feel, as well as the way you look. It’s natural to have questions and you may be worried about a particular aspect of treatment, or feel nervous because you’re not sure about what is going to happen. We are here to answer any questions you may have as well as to listen to you and guide you through every part of your treatment. We’re experienced in all types of cosmetic surgery. You will receive the individual attention you need and deserve. You will see the same consultant throughout your treatment journey from the initial consultation, right through to the surgery itself and the recovery period.


General surgery We offer a wide range of services for patients who require general surgery. This includes the abdomen, plus the oesophagus, stomach, small bowel, colon, liver, pancreas, gall bladder and bile ducts, as well as the skin and breasts. Some of the most common procedures include Abscess incision and drainage, appendicectomy, gall bladder removal, hernia repairs, removal of lesions and lumps For an increasing number of operations we can offer you minimally invasive techniques, operating through small incisions (keyhole surgery). Keyhole operations have many benefits for patients, including less pain and scarring, a lower risk of infection and other complications that can result from making large incisions.There are many different types of keyhole surgery, so your surgeon may discuss with you a range of invasive and minimally invasive options.

signs of any ovarian cancer with a combination of tests: Ultrasound scan, MRI scan or CT scan. Testicular Screening: The screening is by ultrasound scan and takes about 10 minutes. It can help diagnose medical conditions such as sudden pain in the testicles. CT Calcium scoring:. This is a convenient and non-invasive way of evaluating a patient’s risk of future cardiac events.

Can I pay for my own treatment? Yes! Self-pay provides the opportunity to get the diagnosis or treatment you need without the wait. At Nuffield Health Hospitals you can pay for your treatment as a one off tailored, fixed payment even if you don’t have private medical insurance. You also have the option of a single payment or you may be eligible to use our finance partner (First Medical loans) to spread more manageable payments over a period of months.

Orthopaedics The complicated working of your bones, joints, muscles, ligaments and tendons, as well as your nerves, is often referred to as your musculoskeletal system. Orthopaedics is the type of surgery that treats this system. Our orthopaedic team specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of the musculoskeletal system. Our advanced diagnostics technology, including MRI and CT scans, provides our consultants with a complete picture. Treatment could be surgical or non-surgical and can involve minimally invasive techniques, which may reduce recovery times and the risk of infection.

Physiotherapy Whether you’ve hurt your back, twisted your ankle or have a more serious injury, we can get you back on your feet faster. We recognise that each of our clients is unique, that is why we provide a comprehensive range of treatments from short courses to extended rehabilitation programmes tailored to meet your exact needs. Our physiotherapists are leaders in their field and can provide you with all you need to help you with pain relief and rehabilitation.

Because we’re a charity - in fact the largest not-for-profit provider of healthcare in the UK all of our income is invested back into our business, not paid to shareholders.

Nuffield Health Brighton Hospital Warren Road Woodingdean Brighton, BN2 6DX T: 01273 761243 www.nuffieldhealth.com

Screening services We offer a wide range of screening options, including Abdomen Aortic Screening: Patients who have a family history, or are just aware and anxious of aortic aneurysms, can be screened to alleviate that anxiety. Mammography: Offered yearly, on a self-referral basis, for women with no symptoms. Symptomatic women must be referred by a breast consultant. All our reporting is done by an experienced consultant - grade radiologist, and adheres to the strict standards set by the NHS Breast Screening Programme.Ovarian Screening: We can help detect early 25


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You do so much. You are too busy. You have no time. You never escape. You need a treat. You need you back. Looking for a place to hide? Somewhere to escape with luxury facilities and beautiful surroundings. At The Grand Brighton you’ll find this and more. Take advantage of our fantastic introductory offers. Hide with me. Spa with me. Love me.

Complimentary ESPA Personalised Express Facial and ESPA mini bath and body oil gift when booking a 50 minute ESPA Hot Stones, Swedish, Deep Muscle or Aromatherapy Massage. Complimentary Ideal Hydration Gift Set and Jessica Manicure or Pedicure when booking a Deluxe 60 minute Carita Lagoon Hydration Facial for £89.

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spa@grandbrighton.co.uk|0871 222 4684 The Grand, 97-99 King's Road, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 2FW Offers valid from 10th May to 30th June 2013. Subject to availability, terms and conditions apply.


A Grand New Spa Kate Morton talks to The Grand Hotel’s spa manager, Genevieve Ainsworth Photograph Rosebery Images

What direction has the new spa at The Grand Hotel taken? With the addition of our beautiful new luxury day spa adding even more opulence to The Grand, Brighton we look forward to welcoming those guests staying in our stunning newly refurbished bedrooms and offering them even more choice when it comes to relaxation.

to work in the morning across from the ocean and seeing the iconic building still makes me smile and of course having the opportunity to enjoy the fabulous food when entertaining is always a bonus!

What is your favourite/signature treatment at the Spa? I love the Espa ‘Hero’ – back, face and scalp treatment it delivers triple results by targeting three key areas; the back, the face and the scalp. These ideal indulgences for all, will leave you truly relaxed and feeling wonderful. Included in the experience is a back exfoliation, a back massage with the additional choice of hot stones if you wish, a personalised facial and a scalp massage with pink hair mud.

What is your philosophy on beauty?

How would you describe the spa? It is a beautiful luxury day spa with a relaxation lounge that is comparable to the worlds best five star hotel spa’s, a thermal suite; sauna & steam room, seven single treatment suites, a VIP suite for two and a spa café - everything you need to prepare you to face the world again.

I believe that you need to have a great basic skincare routine to be able to age gracefully and recommend a professional facial at least once a month if you’re serious about looking good! Beauty really does come from within, what you eat and drink is important but also how you feel, emotionally, physically and mentally. Stress has a massive impact on how you look and feel. I think a fantastic massage can do you the world of good, as when you are rested and relaxed you can’t help but look good.

How long have you been the spa manager? I joined The Grand Brighton in November 2012 and am proud to have been a part of the initial process of how the spa has developed.

What is your typical day like? We open at 9am daily, so I am normally in the spa around 8am to make sure everything is in its place and ready for our guests to enjoy. I think in the spa world there is never a typical day, as our days are always different depending on the type of guests and events we are looking after. Training and development is integral to ensuring high standards and consistency in quality. My spa team have just completed an intensive six week training programme prior to us opening the spa.

What are the most rewarding parts of working at The Grand? My amazing team which I have the pleasure of working with, those in the spa as well as the rest of the team in the hotel. I love walking

What are your top pre-summer treatments to get you beach ready? It’s got to be a really good full body exfoliation, you feel pampered and super soft, ready to put those shorts on and of course it goes without saying a great wax, we use Lycon which is amazing, fast, effective and practically pain free! Spa images from Anthony at Parkinson Photography.

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Fitness

The Benefits of Short Term Fitness Goals

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e are all motivated. Some are motivated to exercise, some are motivated to avoid exercise and instead seek enjoyment in other areas. Most of us know that regular exercise is good for our health but often that isn’t enough to tempt us off the sofa on a cold rainy evening. So how does someone who is adverse to activity make that permanent change to get in shape and stay fit? Is goal setting really the answer? Let’s say you’ve just watched the marathon and the idea of taking part next year has been planted. Or perhaps you’ve realised now the evenings are getting lighter that summer is on its way and you still haven’t lost the weight you planned to lose last year. But that’s not enough of a goal. Maybe you’ve gone to the extent of writing it down as a SMART goal; Specific, Measured, Achievable, Realistic, Time-Orientated. Then again, you probably tried that before with your New Year’s resolutions and what happened to those?

The Problem The goal setting process is all well and good, but only works if you set the right goals. Research tells us that the highest level goals, the one’s we are most likely to work at and achieve are linked to our personal values. For example, if you value friendship more than your health you will put more effort into goals that fit in with those values, meaning when push comes to shove you’ll choose the social warmth and enjoyment gained from meeting your friends in the pub over something like going to the gym by yourself. It’s not hard to see how you prioritise your values affects the goals you set and the actions you take, like how you organise your weekly calendar. Furthermore, goals should be autonomous, meaning set by you and ones you want to achieve, rather than set for you or feel you should set to please others. It’s a lot easier to have selfdetermination and will-power when your goals are in line with your values.

The Science Bit Researchers from Michigan University studied 226 healthy midlife women over the course of a year and found that exercise goals related to immediate benefits, like enhancing aspects of the quality of daily life, were more compelling to busy individuals resulting in more exercise being performed than those people who set exercise goals that relate to long-term enhancement of health or healthy aging. Further studies confirm that physical activity goals like weight loss or health benefits are not as effective as quality of life goals. So it appears that immediate life-improving benefits motivate behaviour better than distant goals. We are not going to put in the effort for things that seem so far off that it’s hard to imagine them happening. We need instant gratification so be clear on what you can gain now by exercising; like improving your sports performance, or giving you more energy during the day, or relaxation of stress and muscle tension.

Tackling Big Goals But what if your goal cannot be achieved so quickly, like training to run a marathon? Well, in this case you need to ‘chunk it down’: breaking the goal down into smaller short-term benefits that also align with your values. If you want to run a marathon but are a person who likes to going out socialising, perhaps consider joining a running club. By setting a weekly goal to merely turn up and enjoy mixing with like-minded people with similar aspirations, making new friends becomes an immediate benefit in line with your values and attending the session is a short-term goal achieved. You might find other immediate benefits, like stress relief, improved posture, knowing the calories burned from running allows you to go out guilt free with your friends the following night!

be immediate, don’t rely on long-term aspirations that seem so far off that you can easily put them off. Finally, research tells us that merely action planning is not enough. You may be clear on when, where and how you are going to exercise, but life rarely goes according to plan, and goal success is more likely if combined with planning coping strategies, like how you are going to exercise when faced with the barriers you are most likely to encounter, so be sure to factor this in.

Recap Make the goals smaller and quicker to achieve, make the benefits immediate so you enjoy the process, and make sure they are all in align with your values so they get priority. If you keep achieving short-term goals and enjoying the benefits along the way, before you know it you will be close to achieving the long-term goal you never thought possible.

Got a question?

If you have a question about this article, or have a fitness problem you’d like Adam to cover in a future issue, email adam@ yourfitnesscoach.co.uk

Brief Bio: Adam Lewis holds a degree in Sport & Exercise Science, a Masters degree in Human Nutrition (with Sports), is a Strength & Conditioning Specialist and has been a certified personal trainer for over 10 years. Adam provides a mobile fitness service around Brighton and Sussex. www.YourFitnessCoach.co.uk

The next step is to set short-term goals that support your long-term progression, like entering a 5k race in a month’s time, then a 10k, then working at bettering your times. Re-brand the benefits to 31


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Our monthly column from Brighton’s own comedy king

Stephen Grant The Window of Opportunity

S

ometimes the biggest trigger for people’s imaginations is literally nothing. While walking through the North Laine this April, my wife and I stopped and spent over 2 minutes staring through a shop window. However, this was no ordinary window browsing. This building was empty; a depressingly common sight in recession Britain, and one that even Brighton cannot avoid. But this was in as good a position as any Brighton shop I’ve ever seen, and before we could stop ourselves, those two minutes were an unstoppable downward spiral of fantasy, imagining ourselves as proprietors of this humble boutique, with it being the acorn to the oak tree of a future multinational empire. I’m no megalomaniac, but it’s amazing what an empty window will do to your imagination. I find that even the most stoic and unadventurous Briton harbours thoughts of running their own business, and in Brighton, that calling can be almost primal. Napoleon was onto something when he called us a nation of shopkeepers; but I believe the desire lies not in

to run a shop? Could we afford it? Did either of us know anything about retail? And would the answers to these key questions make the slightest bit of difference to our decision? Four So it’s quite ironic that Monsieur Bonaparte’s ‘no’s’ in quick succession. But then we hit on the tongue should have gifted us with the word ultimate stumbling block. What shop could we ‘entrepreneur’ – which simply doesn’t sound right unless uttered with dark Gallic undertones. possibly open in Brighton that hasn’t already been catered for? The market for specialist Try to say it out loud right now. Even the most tastes is so well catered for in Brighton that ardent Francophobe can’t help but make it sound like an audition for ‘Allo ‘Allo. The English vegetarians can buy fast food, soap and shoes language has slowly murdered the pronunciation specific to them without even crossing a single road. Clothing, white goods, food, hardware, of Cul De Sac and Bon Apetit over the years, you name it, the BN postcode has it covered. but ‘entrepreneur’ has neatly survived the British knack of hijacking and sanitizing beautiful And any scented candle not available in this city plainly isn’t worth burning. foreign words. And it’s vastly more bohemian than ‘self-employed’, which is almost entirely We simply couldn’t come up with anything, and in the domain of plumbers and carpenters. An we resignedly let our embryonic dreams die entrepreneur is wily, optimistic, shrewd and automatically successful. He or she is the brains, their natural death. And then, just last week, I drove past the shop to find that someone had not the brawn; the catalyst to great riches and leased it and was now using it to flog the one notoriety, on the back of their ideas alone. thing locals just can’t seem to get enough of. There’s little heavy lifting. That’s right, it’s another letting agents. Of course, the wife and I had to ask ourselves some searching questions. Did we have time working in the service industry, but in the need to be self-governing. Bossless, basically.

Napoleon was onto something when he called us a nation of shopkeepers; but I believe the desire lies not in working in the service industry, but in the need to be self-governing. Bossless, basically. 35 33


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The monthly column from our windswept Brighton gal

Zoe Lyons Brighton up my Day

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still remember the sense of excitement I felt almost a decade ago when we packed the car and left London to start a new life in Brighton. It was such a relief to leave behind the grimy streets of Kilburn and set up home in the, still grimy, yet somewhat more quirky streets of Kemptown. Don’t get me wrong, I love London, one of the best cities on the planet but living there had taken its toll eventually. Anyone who has even taken a day trip to the Capital will have experienced an element of the blanked faced, shoulder barging sense of urgency that a city the size of London produces in its inhabitants.

Another aspect of Brighton life that took me by surprise was that people actually talked to you. Having spent many years in the “head down, don’t engage” atmosphere of London it really took some getting used to.

powerful, life altering development but I hope we never forget how to disconnect with the interface and look a person in the face, brighten up their day with a smile and a simple “hello”. It is such a simple, human thing to do. Give it a go.

“How are you today?” a shop keeper asked me one morning. So taken aback was I by this innocent enquiry from a stranger that I replied “I think you must be mistaken, I don’t know you” and shuffled awkwardly out of the shop.

I then started to notice passengers thanking the bus driver as they left the bus and neighbours waving greetings to the postman. It began to There were a couple of things that I needed to dawn on me that these people were interacting with each other and actually acknowledging adjust to when we arrived initially. Firstly there were the seagulls. I of course was aware seagulls each others existence. Good lord, what a radical concept! had the potential to be noisy critters I wasn’t aware, however, of the range of shrill streaks they were capable of producing. In the first few I am happy to report it was a concept that I took onboard willingly after years of feeling weeks I lay awake at night thinking that Jurassic isolated in a sea of 8 million stoney faced city Teradaptiles were perched on the roof waiting for me to drift off so they could smash through dwellers. my bedroom window and launch their deadly The ways in which we can communicate attack (I do have an over active imagination with each other has changed so sometimes). The gulls propensity to destroy a enormously since that shop keeper said bin bag of rubbish was also a revaluation to hello to me ten years ago. We can tweet, me. I remember once seeing a seagull running poke, Skype or video conference call blindly down St James Street with an empty anywhere in the world at any time. The baked beans can on his head like a make shift digital revolution is indeed an incredibly hard hat.

Well hello there Mr Seagull, can I just say that is a beautiful hat you are sporting this morning!

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100 Reasons why we love Brighton!

01 For me, Brighton is exemplified by the fact that a busy road (Wilson Avenue) is closed whenever the full length of the Brighton Racecourse is needed. The gambling/sporting needs of the City always take precedence over the demands of the transport infrastructure! - Roy Stannard

03

Photograph Sally Wynn

To celebrate our 100th issue we asked what it is that people love about our city.

02

Brighton is officially the most dog friendly place in Britain! - Nabila Salem

04

Unlike London or New York or Paris, Brighton thrives on a smaller, more eclectic mix of city, I like Christmas time in Brighton, when all the streets are decorated in culture, and casual beach town. My lights, people selling roasted chestnuts and pubs are having festive events. favourite spot for work and play is Everyone pulls together and Brighton comes alive. - Amy Mercer The Mesmerist. It offers fabulous cocktails and a vintage, jazz vibehow could you go wrong? The promenade full of bars is one of my - Kelly Tokarz The Veteran Car favourite things about Brighton, especially Run. Seeing these in the summer with a beer watching the The amazing vehicles dawdling world go by. - Damon Evans down from London on a rolling The Sunday morning flea cold, wintry November market is my favourite downs What I like about Brighton is that it takes Sunday, exposing the thing about the city. It was only about 20 minutes to cycle anywhere and the drivers and their passengers at the station for years before that I want to get to, I love the fact I can ever to all the elements, is a cycle along the seafront especially if the relocating to Brighton Marina, wind is going in the right direction. perfect example of English which means it’s quite a trek for changing - Ella from Hope & Harlequin eccentricity at its best. Also me to get there but it’s always moods of these are the only drivers worth it! Whatever the weather, I the sea. I love coming back from up north, who don’t object to the never miss it – even if I’m tired, reaching Dyke Road roundabout and annoying 20mph rules in hungover or really should be doing - Tim seeing the sea. It always give me a Brighton. - Ian Trevett something else. - Carol Seatory Parker thrill - Alan Prior

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06

07 08

10

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11 36

I love Brighton because men dress as women! - Rory Barber


12

13

What I love...is that, like Doctor Who, we have two hearts beating in the city. There used to be just one, around the North Street, Laines, and West Street area, but there’s a new one, centred around the rejuvenated Jubilee Street. With hundreds of young people enjoying themselves in the fantastic new restaurants, bars and shops, all surrounded by quaint and interesting older streets and shops, it can’t be beaten. - Phil Mills

14 It’s glamorous, 15

it’s eccentric, it’s a bit dirty and it feels like holiday every day. - Kate Morton

17 The Sussex County Cricket Club – my father played for Sussex as a professional cricketer for years. I was raised on the ground with my fellow four siblings and will always remember the days of us always running (in matching Laura Ashley outfits!) on to the field to give our father a hug during matches. It was like something out of the Sound of Music! To this day we all still go and I can still see the ground from my parents’ home - memories my family & I will never forget. - Fiona Graves

21 Brighton has creativity in its DNA and that is reflected in its array of wonderful things to do and see. Every day is a rich cultural experience. The people that live in Brighton are here because they generally love the city and I think that is reflected in the enthusiasm that goes in to both looking after it and celebrating it. - Nicola Gunstone

24 My favourite place in Brighton is ‘Brighton Square’. It’s right in the heart of the lanes and has the ‘magical’ dolphin fountain right in the middle.Ever since I can remember, my mum has told me to throw a coin in and ‘make a wish’ and now I can’t walk passed without doing it! It’s the most beautiful place all year round as its stunning in the sunshine and gorgeous covered in tiny little lights at Christmas – Best place in Brighton! - Lucy Ives

nightlife is some of 27 Brighton the best in the UK, with some fantastic venues and exceptional local DJ talent, it’s hard to beat. - Luke Thacker

Brighton Basketball Beach Court, a great scene, full of competitive players. - Dan White

I love Brighton because it is a fun place to go out, has a good range of shops, is on the beach Because we live beside the and a good place seaside Brighton has an ever to go out on an changing landscape. The sea has evening. - Sally a different colour, shape and tempo everyday so your view is Lewis

16

18

permanently changing and that is very refreshing. - Zoe Lyons

The best thing I love about Brighton would be the Jamie Oliver restaurant, it has scrummy food, brilliant service and I love being able to see the chefs making the food. - Rhian Wade

22

20

19 Rottingdean Village Fair. Usually held on the same day as Pride, it can be easy to mix up these two events. There are only two differences, the Rottingdean people are much older - and they have better costumes. - Valerie Teal

I love the vintage scene in Brighton and all the clothes shopping. – Hannah Carrick

23

I love Brighton for Donatellos. Best restaurant ever! Cheap, amazing food and good service. - Rhianna Morgan

25 The Standard pub, all the Brighton fans meet up there on a Saturday afternoon home game. It’s a run by a family who are really nice. - Rob Nicholson

28 I enjoy everything

about Brighton, one of my favourites is Brighton Marina as it is a slower pace of life and a bit more chilled out, even though I do enjoy the hustle and bustle in the lanes. - Lucy Evans

I love the beautiful blue sea that people don’t care what others think about their dress sense and that there’s something always gone. - Charlotte Lilley

26

A favourite spot with the dog has to be Stanmer House. A walk around the park before a bite to eat in the grand house. - Clare Rogers owner of The Treatment Rooms

29

Walking the dog in Stamner Park and drinking cider - Mike Pastor 37


31

30 There aren’t as many

Yesterday I walked from Kemp Town to Hove passing two fellow unicyclists who had just finished their 9-5’s, a renowned clock tower that had been redecorated with shirts, and a film crew talking to a stag party that had just bought origami from a homeless man… And yesterday was a Thursday. Throw in an illustrious history of mods, rockers, a beautiful pier and pavilion, and you’ve every reason to never want to leave. - Neil Eric Blackmore

since the demise of the West Pier, but it is still on of nature’s great spectacles - thousands of birds swooshing and rolling around the coastline. These are Brighton’s finest feathered friends. Why the football team chose the chipnicking, poo-splattering, rubbishspreading aggressive seagull as their mascot is a mystery. Staaarlings, staaaarlings.... - Toby Tildry

The Saturday morning market in the North Laine. A haven for second-hand books, posters, ceramics, furniture, clothes, paintings and great for people watching. - Bianca Donnelly

32

34 35

The urban parks as it is full of diverse people regardless of age, gender and disability, in which people are able to be creative and individual and express their identity, which brings a sense of community and uniqueness that isn’t found in many other cities. Victoria Townsend - Steer

38

I love the amount of independent businesses and the close proximity to the sea and a national park. - Alex Santos

I love the sea. I walk or run along the prom - in the wind and rain i enjoy the drama of the crashing waves - when sunny and calm I love to see people laughing and enjoying the calm sea - Robert Grey

39

I like the Quadrant pub. There is always a good atmosphere inside and they also do open mic nights and stand up shows. - Jordan Young

36

The buzz and almost claustrophobic clinginess of The Lanes. Always busy always changing, always something of interest. - Jenny Rogers

I love the Pier because it’s got lots of fun activities and there is something for everyone this is where I like to spend my pocket money. It’s really bright, colourful and loud which sums up Brighton. - Lottie Evans

Photograph Sally Wynn

I love the lanes. They’re like an endless maze of trinkets and antiques. I love the vintage clothes shops; each one has such a unique style. - Mica Willgrass

45

37 The BAHBAs. Business Awards can be dry - but not on the pier with fish and chips, karaoke, Elvis and Marilyn. - Tami Davis

between a metropolitan city, a beach and the countryside and it’s beautiful in the sun. - Alex Parish

41

44

The Boardwalk at the Marina. Stroll past the restaurants and the boats and then out on to the undercliff to Rottingdean. My favourite walk. - Tara Lovell

40 I love Brighton because it’s a happy medium

42

What’s not to love about Brighton, its quirky stylish shops, The Marina, The Seaside and Downs all in one place!! Lets not forget one of the The Sealife centre, it’s one of best things the crazy the biggest attractions to Brighton nightlife. I HEART and tourism wouldn’t be as Brighton! - Laura extensive without it. - Liam Carver Beddoe

33

43 One of my favourite things about Brighton is the view over the city from the allotments just beyond Downs Crematorium. Park in one of the few hidden car parks up there and on a good day you can see Brighton Station, Sussex Heights, both piers, and St Bartholomews, all in one go. In fact, on a totally clear day you can even see Shoreham Power station, so I recommend going when it’s slightly cloudy. - Stephen Grant

46 Brighton is amazing for its friendly faces and vibrant colours. What a brilliant place for an outdoor rave! - Louis Fitch

47 Sun, sea and civilisation in one place. and smugness. - Andrew Nutton


I love the 49 atmosphere,

48 For me its the world-class English sparkling wine industry that sits on the doorstep of the city.Vineyards such as Ridgeview, Bolney and Stopham are producing astounding award-winning wines. - Nick Mosley

50

I was born in Brighton in the winter of 1963. It was so cold the sea froze. Despite being shipped off to Eastbourne at an early age, my heart still skips along to a Brighton & Hove tune. So what do I love about Brighton & Hove? Bustling streets, great places to meet, Seafront jogs with Maisie, my dog, a vibrant business scene and fantastic football team. and Sussex County Cricket … it’s just the ticket! – Tim Cobb

53 The Lanes for shopping to find a good old vintage bargain which no one else will have. - Rachel Morgan

54

Quadrophenia. Classic film and great soundtrack. It’s legacy can still be seen. Just check out how many 40 and 50-year-old men wander round the city with the obligatory Paul Weller haircut. - David Bailes

You can wear whatever the hell you want and nobody bats an eyelid. - Jason Absalom

56

Photograph Erika Szostak

55

normally in a city everyone is aggy but Brighton is different, people are smiley and happy. - Isabella Brignoni

51

52

I love Brighton because its a hip young city and everyone always looks happy when the sun’s out. William Berckey

I like Brighton because you can get away with pretty much anything you want really, go a mile east or west and you get completely different parts of town, Kemp town is full of interesting people and hove not so much but still a nice place. - Sam Milchean

I love the shops, the feeling in the summer and going for evening cocktails. - Sophia

Mange Tout in Trafalgar Street has to be one of the best café/restaurants in Brighton. Great breakfasts, lunches and dinners and you can bring your dog in to boot! - Miss Weller, Head of Girls Games at Lancing College.

56

57 The best thing about Brighton is the tolerant

attitude, it enables you to be FREE which promotes creativity and ultimately, happiness. - Jess Eaton, Designer

58

The Proud Ballroom. A bit cheeky, slightly decadent and very Brighton. - Hollie Jean

59 One of the city’s great success stories and one other things I love best about the city is the ice rink over Christmas. It has to be best way to spend an afternoon or evening with your family. It is well managed, well-organised and just great fun. I have to say my own project - Brighton’s Big Screen gives me such a huge thrill. Ever since I saw Jaws on a dodgy projection screen many years ago drinking cheap beer I wanted to be the man who brought that back to the beach. The excitement, that sense of unity and shared love of Cinema has never left me. - Bill Murray

61

Brighton Museum & Art Gallery. A mixture of Art Nouveau and fashion through the decades, perfect place to go on a rainy lunch break! - Iszara Morgan

63 It’s diverse and cultural, plus it has a nudist beach! – James Barton

Photograph Erika Szostak

64

The Sealife centre, it’s one of the biggest attractions to Brighton and tourism wouldn’t be as extensive without it. - Liam Carver

65 Debauchery on every level! - Janey Lavelle

60

What I love about Brighton is the restaurants, bars and arts culture and the fantastic seafront. - Tara Borissow

62 I love walking through the Royal Pavilion Gardens, with the palace in front of me, the beautiful Regency gardens around me and with tame squirrels and pigeons scampering about in the grass and flower beds, it sometimes truly has a fairytale quality. -Paula Seager 39


the City’s youthful and lively vibe it offers 66 Alongside culture, art and sophistication. It’s arguably, the beautiful location that lures people back again and again. Be it the dramatic backdrop of the South Downs National Park, or award-winning beaches Brighton & Hove is unique -a diverse City by the sea. We enjoy some of these great benefits at Brighton Marina with quayside dining, free parking, great bars and restaurants alongside great entertainment available on the land and sea. – Kirsty Pollard

Photograph Erika Szostak

The Brighton Eye – relaxing on a clear summer’s day looking over Brighton & Hove, not so relaxing

67 when you’re scared of heights though! – Iszara Morgan I love the music scene in Brighton, there’s a great music scene, live music, there are so many bands, a huge variety and a massive talent every single night of the week. - Badge Whipple

68

69

I like the fact you can take dogs into loads of cafes and its very dog friendly, I’ve got two dogs, so it’s a very dog friendly city – Nikki from Pussy

72 The Zombie Walk. Splash on the fake blood, tear up your clothes and join Brighton’s best fancy dress parade. – Chris Jones

74

One of the things I like most about Brighton is those rare magical days when it’s sunny on the beach and you can just have some cider!! - Adam from the North Laines.

75 It’s a great place for babies. - Vanessa

Brighton has lots of great venues where you can meet lovely crazy people, it’s like Edinburgh but more seaside Johnee Killick

76

80 I love the fact I have two of my favourite restaurants, Pascals and Havana Spoon are within a two minute walk and there’s enough surrounding bars to make it an interesting stagger home - Alan Lade

40

I love Brighton because there are so many great gig venues and bars. - Dominic Loosemore

77

81 Fishing for my dinner in the sea - Trevor Howe

70

My favourite thing about Brighton is the people and the atmosphere, there is always something happening in Brighton – I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else. My favourite shop is Jump the Gun in the North Laine. - Jeremy Hoye

73 One of my favourite things to do in Brighton is to go to the Amex and watch Brighton play. I go with my family and it is definitely one of the highlights of my week. - Kate Wilson, Salon Director, Trevor Sorbie Brighton.

78 The best Sunday Lunch in the world - Hotel du Vin! - Lucy Rivers

love 71 Igoing down the lanes and looking at all the boutique shops and seeing all the different styles of clothes. To Be Worn Again is one of my favourite shops. - Emily Price Its size and relative diversity. Within walking distance there is so much to choose from going on every night, and in such a little city you will always bump into someone you know to share it with. - Michael Brooks

79

Palace Pier (or 82 The Brighton Pier as it is now known). It’s like being a kid again, taking a day trip to the seaside - Sarah Dalton


The best thing about Brighton for me is the sea. I find it centres me and gives me a sense of place in the world. And regardless of the weather the sea has its own unique expression. - Caraline Brown

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83

The West Pier. The most beautiful pier still holds fond memories. Bizarrely, the stark, rusty skeleton remains one of the iconic images of the city. - Emma Morris

85

What I love about Brighton is the vibrant atmosphere and variety of things to do.You have everything here, the sea, countryside and wonderful amenities. Fab place to live and bring up children. - Kerry Blazdell

87 The Colonnade Bar, New Road. Theatre goers mingle in tidal shifts with a cast of ubiquitous Brighton eccentrics, with faded ginpalace decor and perhaps the most lovably curmudgeonly landlord in the city. - Chris Holt

86 My favourite thing about Brighton is my sea view. - Shelley Baker Photograph Sally Wynn

89 La Clique at The Spiegeltent. I know, it only comes round every few years during the Fringe, but this unhinged ensemble should be granted the title of honorary Brightonians. – Paul Huggins

88

The hustle and bustle. - Matthew Sheppard

92

Marwoods Coffee Bar in Ship Street. Imagine if Salvador Dali went out on a messy night out clubbing in Brighton, and then embarked on a spot of interior design - Claire Buckle

91 You never

have to look far to get a BIG As You Like It sandwich bar in the 93 East Street Arcade. It’s like being ISSUE! - Peter in Cheers - it seems that Sarah knows Jenner everyone’s name. - Sophie Bailey

95

Brighton is full of variety and there is something for everyone. - Natasha Jane Birchall

97 Brighton and Hove Albion. Promotion to the Premier League has just been temporarily postponed. We’ll be up next year. - Imogen Lucas.

96 Brighton Pride, fun and frollics and full of interesting characters. Great fun with my friends every time we go. It brings the City alive! - Sally Wynn

98 I love Brighton for the cosmopolitan atmosphere. - Ryan Carson

I love Brighton because it’s my home, family, job and boyfriend. I also love the busy feel and being able to pop to London. - Olivia

99

90

The Amex Stadium, I love coming back to Brighton as The Amex is everything that I could have dreamed about after 16 years of leaving the old Goldstone Ground. – Michael Nicholson.

love Brighton 94 We for its eclectic people, it makes our salon so exciting and diverse, ranging in all ages and characters wouldn’t live anywhere else. – Ollie Blackaby Art Director for Headmasters

Photograph Lesley Taylor

100 Absolute! The only lifestyle magazine in the city.

What is missing from our list? Tweet us at: @absolutemagazin The best tweets will be published in next month’s Absolute Magazine. 41


Festival Fever By Phoebe Oliver

2013 was the most successful year yet for the May Festivals in Brighton. Our city once again transformed into the epicentre of cutting edge music, dance, visual art, free events, outdoor performance, spoken word, theatre and film. Covering our clock tower in shirts, landing an Airship outside St Peters Church and providing a world exclusive La Clique show – complete with sequined clad blue rabbit and saucy cowgirls…….is there any better place to be in May I ask you? But once the clean-up has finished and props have been stored for another year where else would we travel to find a great UK festival? This month Absolute Travel offer you a few more options to help you continue your cultural calendar – and a couple more which look just plain fun……

A location similar in character to Brighton & Hove in many ways is the Harbour town of St Ives. St Ives holds an annual September festival full to the brim with music, performance arts and literature events. It’s a small and unassuming festival but its growing yearly with over 300 events last year, and even more this year, there’s something for everyone … St Ives festival is sponsored by Cornish Gems which have over 100 luxury holiday homes, cottages and apartments throughout Cornwall and over 50 are in St. Ives itself. The company are extending our Absolute readers 10% discount if they quote a promo ref: ABSOLUTESSF13. This offer applies to all September holidays booked via Cornish Gems when the Festival is taking place (arrivals 13-29th Sep). www.stivesseptemberfestival.co.uk Alternatively the very central www.stiveshousestives.com brings stylish beach-front self-catering to a prime spot beside the sweeping white sands of Porthminster beach, ideal for families or groups of up to six. It is equally suited to a luxury bucket and spade ‘staycation’, or a sophisticated adult getaway to enjoy the artistic scene and gourmet restaurants this West Cornish town is justly famous for. www.youtube.com/watch?v=tTNp1GL4F0g

St Ives


Travel

The Henley Festival The Rhythmtree Festival on the Isle of Wight is a three day festival (19th to 21st July) offering a much smaller more intimate atmosphere than many UK festivals with a strong focus on world music – everything from didgeridoos to Cajun dance, from African drums to Samba! The event offers entertainment across three stages in a gorgeous rural setting at Three Gates Farm, in the quaint village of Calbourne, to the west of the Isle of Wight. This year’s acts include Dele Sosimi’s Afrobeat Vibration, the London Bulgarian Choir, Two Man Ting, The Goat Roper Rodeo Band and Maharaja Blues and more, plus late night DJs in the RhumbaRumBar each night. Accommodation includes a Camping package where you can spend the weekend camping in the gorgeous scenery of Calbourne for the Rhythmtree Festival from just £47pp. This price is based on two adults and two children (aged 0 – 12) attending and includes camping for the weekend, access to the festival each day, and return car vehicle crossings with Red Funnel. There is also a guest house package where you can spend the weekend on the Isle of Wight for the Rhythmtree Festival this summer from just

£84pp. This price is based on two adults and two children (aged 0 – 12) sharing an en suite family room at Littledene Lodge on the Isle of Wight, with day tickets for the festival on Saturday and Sunday (£30 per adult, per day, children aged 0 – 12 go free), and includes return vehicle crossings with Red Funnel. See www.redfunnel.co.uk for further details and to book.

Anyone for Pimms? For something a little smarter why not try the The Henley Festival? The event is a 5 night, black tie festival on the banks of the River Thames from 10 – 14th July. This year they have headline performances on the floating stage from the likes of The Beach Boys, Jamie Cullum, Madness & Paloma Faith plus Joanna Lumley hosts a special bond themed gala evening along with a host of comedy performances, street theatre, art, dance, fashion etc. 43


If you go down to the woods today…… but which wood and where I hear you holler? The Hidden Hill Festival runs from 21st – 23rd June, 2013 and is held in a secret location in Lincolnshire Wolds…… June, the Hidden Hill marks its inaugural slot in the summer arts calendar,

The Hidden Hill Festival

promising an uplifting cultural experience at a top secret location. Set somewhere within the tranquil tree-lined surroundings of the Lincolnshire Wolds, and taking place over the summer solstice, organisers are inviting festival goers to soak up an enchanted weekend full of music, film, artist Q and As, installations, workshops, holistic therapies, artisan stalls and wholesome food. Highlights include a granary converted into a cinema for a film premiere, a labyrinth, nightfall illuminations... Tickets cost just £90 for the full weekend to include standard camping and access to flushing loos and showers. Boutique camping (including yurts and tipis) and live-in vehicle passes are an optional extra, and tickets can be purchased in two installments. All ticket-holders will receive exact ‘secret’ location details ten days before the event, however publicised information

Liquorice Festival

states that the site will be approximately 2hrs 50 from London. For tickets, full details and line-up visit www.hiddenhillfestival.co.uk or search for ‘The Hidden Hill Festival’ on Facebook. “Fancy dress, swimwear, easy-going folk and smiles are all encouraged” according to the organisers – I think I can just about rustle up one of the above.

And now for something a little different… we are not the only destination to hold a PHD in eccentric you know…. For those with a sweet tooth the annual Liquorice Festival in Pontefract, West Yorkshire is held on the 8th July. Pontefract’s deep, sandy soil makes it one of the few British places where this Middle Eastern plant can be grown. A festival is held annually, full of activities to celebrate the town’s sweet success. Stay nearby in Leeds at Weetwood Hall (four-star), doubles from £85 pp (two sharing) through

Wakestock Festival

Great Little Breaks (08448 488 488; www.greatlittlebreaks.com).

Wakestock Festival is Europe’s largest wakeboarding music festival and takes place (12-14th July) on the stunning Llyn Peninsula in North Wales. The area is renowned for its fantastic beaches, beautiful villages with fantastic shops, restaurants and pubs, great surfing beaches, fantastic sailing waters and stunning scenery attracting thousands of people and big name acts. www.wakestock.co.uk

Bog Snorkelling


Travel

Brixham Buccaneers Let’s face it who in their right mind doesn’t fancy a spot of Bog Snorkelling on a hot summer’s day?

which has a wide variety of places to choose from ranging from

The annual Bog Snorkelling Festival is held in Llanwrtyd Wells, Powys,

Aha, Me Hearties – that’s it from Absolute Travel for another month. Join me next for an insight into the best value for money all inclusive holidays – with someone to please everyone.

Wales and takes place every year over the August bank holiday. Llanwrtyd Wells has supplemented the tourist magic of being Britain’s smallest town with a series of bonkers events, the daftest of which is

traditional Brixham cottages to chic harbour-front apartments sleeping from two through to ten. For bookings see www.bluechipholidays.co.uk or call 0844 7044987. Jack Sparrow would be proud!

bog snorkelling. Held in the Waen Rhydd Peat Bog, the mucky endurance test challenges contestants to swim two lengths of a 55m trench, with only flippers and a snorkel to help them through the quagmire. Conventional swimming strokes are not allowed. In 2006 there was a ‘bog off’ tiebreak after two snorkellers finished in one minute and 41 seconds, only six seconds behind the world record. The Cammarch Hotel is about three miles from the bog snorkelling site and offers double rooms from £79 per night B&B.

Lastly it may not tick the festival box entirely but why not join the Brixham Buccaneers for the first May Bank Holiday weekend in 2014 to help break the World Record for the most Pirates in one gathering? Brighton bought you March Of The Mermaids on May 25th and now it’s the boys turn….all you need is an eye patch, hook, sword, white t-shirt, and rolled-up trousers. Stay close to the action with Blue Chip Holidays,

Phoebe Oliver runs Oliver Relations PR consultancy www.oliverrelations.co.uk. Mainly specialising in travel and luxury lifestyle brands the company have some of the best journalist contacts in the industry (both traditional and online), excel at finding unusual angles press and provide memorable events for clients and press. If you would like to discuss raising the profile of your company in the UK National, online and social media markets press please contact Phoebe direct on: phoebe@oliverrelations.co.uk 545


Interview

Forever Young Will Young opens up on personal insecurities, plans for the future and dealing with disappointment. Words: Stephen Milton

T

here’s a notion that everything

became the first winner of Pop Idol over a

Insecurities, depression and feeling ashamed

happens for a reason. In Will

decade ago.

about his sexuality for many years all

Young’s case, it was obviously

He was the quintessential zero to hero,

merge into the melting pot of his life, and

always intended that the

claiming extensive chart-topping success

subsequently created someone who, while

talented singer should make

while other talent show winners continued

radiant in personality in front of the cameras,

a complete fool of himself

to fall by the wayside. Now, after 11 years in

was actually fraught with emotional doubt.

performing a cringeworthy rendition of

the spotlight, Will Young can boast a clutch

“I’m a shrink’s banquet,” he laughs. “If it

The Jackson 5’s Blame it on the Boogie for

of platinum albums and a string of music

wasn’t for my singing, I’m not sure what

his opening Pop Idol audition, all those many

awards to his name. It all ensures the singer

I would be doing today. I’ve always found

moons ago.

will always now be regarded as a talent in

salvation in my music and certainly it has

“It’s one of the things I still get asked about

his own right, rather than just some Simon

stood me in fantastic stead throughout the

the most. Why did I do it? How did I pull

Cowell plaything.

years. It’s been something true and sane that

it off quite so badly? Although I prefer to

That said, success will never bring about

I’ve been able to fall back on.”

imagine what might have happened if I

guarantees of happiness, and the 33-year-

Some may query what he has got to feel

hadn’t done the song... it was dreadful, but

old is only too aware of this. In his revealing

insecure about. Along with a highly successful

it grabbed the judges’ attention, and saw

autobiography last year, Funny Peculiar,Young

recording career (his last album Echoes

me through. But hey, no matter which way

reveals he hasn’t always had an easy time of

topped the charts and shifted a half million

I choose to dress it up, it still haunts me, I

it over the past decade, admitting the path to

copies in the UK alone) he’s also appeared

admit!”

happiness doesn’t always run smoothly, even

in numerous TV, film and stage productions.

Hip shakes aside, his pure voice and raw

for someone presumably with the world at

These include Mrs Henderson Presents

talent won Young legions of fans when he

his feet.

alongside Dame Judi Dench, and West End

46


Interview hit Cabaret – the latter leading him to pick

speculation that he may, belatedly, join The

that has ensured his music career has thrived

up Best Newcomer at the ‘WhatsOnStage’

Voice for its 2013 run, although he’s old

while other talent show winners have

awards earlier this year.

enough and wise enough not to believe too

disappeared without trace. “I was given an

But the deep insecurities of his career and

much the tabloids print.

opportunity; there was no way I was going to

personal life were blatantly clear, highlighted

“I just keep my head down and concentrate

let it go. For years it has been my lifeline. But

by the disappointment he felt after being

on what’s important to me now.”

now I’ve got more of a handle on things.”

offered a job as one of the mentors in the

The son of a businessman father, Robin,

Having accumulated a handsome fortune

BBC series The Voice - the offer then being

and market gardener mother, Annabel, Will

- reportedly somewhere around the

retracted before filming commenced.

grew up in Hungerford, Berkshire with his

£15million mark - Young has acquired several

“That was a big letdown. Mentally, I had

twin brother Rupert and sister Emma. He

properties around the UK and splits most

put myself in the place where it was going

attended prep school Horris Hill, a place he

of his time between his 17th century cottage

to happen. I was relishing the challenge,

describes as “loveless”.

on Cornwall’s Bodmin Moor and a terraced

but had it pulled from beneath me. That’s

“It was a place stuck in its own traditions,

apartment in London’s Holland Park.

showbusiness though – these things can and

with a terrible philosophy and some awful

But Will Young’s real escape has always

will happen, and maybe it was a lesson for me

teachers. It was a bit of a prison and way

been Brighton. A two-bedroomed abode

to learn, because in 11 years I don’t think I

out of place in the 1980s.You weren’t far

along Marine Parade has always been the

have ever been treated like that, having been

off cold showers. It was like Tom Brown’s

perfect getaway spot for the performer, and

led on so long for a job, been given it, then

Schooldays.”

with a rather kinder year ahead in terms of

had it taken away. It was weird, in a sense, to

For almost all of his schooldays he carried

album schedule and live commitments, the

be upset about something I never had, but

the fact he was gay like a weight around his

opportunity to escape from the hustle and

that’s human nature, I guess.”

neck. “I knew I was gay from the age of eight

bustle of the capital is one he’s likely to take.

Had he decided on what kind of judge/

or nine. It was a relief to state who I was in

“It does all come down to time. Whenever

mentor he was going to be, had the

the end, and one of those things that seem

I get out of London I want it to be for a

opportunity come to fruition? Would he

less of a big deal when they’re revealed. But

period of time that’s worthwhile. Brighton

follow in the footsteps of Cowell?

at the end of the day some people come out

holds such great memories – it’s a place you

“Well my style has always been ‘up front and

and they’re fine, but others find it harder.

want to immerse yourself in, because it has

honest’, so I guess I’m not a country mile

“I guess I wasted a lot of time and energy

its own unique vibe and culture. I don’t know

away from Simon in that respect – that much

worrying about it all, which is crazy. But Pop

anywhere like it.

is true. And I wouldn’t pander to something

Idol represented a completely different phase

“I think the other attraction of Brighton is

I didn’t believe in... I just wouldn’t put myself

of my life. The show was like a fairytale, a

coming along, sitting quietly and watching

through that. But I could never get away with

whirlwind experience where you really were

the world go by. One of my guilty pleasures

a fraction of the stuff Simon Cowell says.

living life in a shop window from week to

is parking myself on a bench near the Pier;

Let’s be honest, he has a way... a charisma

week, never knowing when it might come

either that or wandering around the Lanes.”

that gives him that gift to be cutting and

to an end. I was supremely confident that I

Aside from his music career, Will is now

charming in equal measure. I don’t possess

would win the contest, and I guess that really

busy refining other interests. An eager

that at all.”

guided me though.”

conservationist, he’s currently playing with

The singer refuses to be drawn on

He says it’s been that kind of stubbornness

the notion of returning to further education

One of my guilty pleasures is parking myself on a bench near the Pier; either that or wandering around the Lanes. 47


Interview

I am an unremarkable looking specimen with thinning hair, a funny nose and a loathing for the gym. I would say any comparisons to sex symbols were probably a decent distance from the truth. to study animal science in his quest to

“I’ve known Ralph for a while and wanted

desperately to that cliché in the hope that

become the next David Attenborough.

to be a part of that project. I wanted to

it’s true,” he laughs. “I think, in another sense,

“Attenborough seems to be everywhere at

learn about the world of producing and all

I quite like getting older, because at the same

the moment and he’s so inspiring. Some days

that it entails. I find it really fascinating and

time I feel myself becoming happier, more

I dream of packing it all in, getting my degree

satisfying, being on set in that regard. It’s a

content... more confident even.”

and going to live in the jungle, immersing

world I want to experience more of.”

Age and experience allows him the privilege

myself in the wildlife around me.

Of course, all talent aside,Young’s enduring

of casting a knowing eye over the next brand

“Though to be fair, how many of us make

appeal has often also been credited to his

of reality TV hopefuls. He’s grateful to have

wild bold statements like that? I’ve had

sex symbol status, a term he immediately

been one of the first offspring from the

friends saying they were jetting off to help

snorts at. “Please,” he snorts, “I’m an

modern talent show concept.

the turtles in Costa Rica in six months. That

unremarkable looking specimen with

“It’s a shame, but the concept is fading, and

was eight years ago. I hope I don’t become

thinning hair, a funny nose and a loathing

we need something else.

one of those ‘all talk, no action’ people but

for the gym. I’d say any comparisons to sex

“The record industry has changed so much

I’m young enough, so theoretically I have

symbols were probably a decent distance

over the last decade too – I’m glad I had

enough time to do it all.”

from the truth.”

my break when I did, because you do worry

His recent win at the WhatsOnStage awards

Admittedly though, his looks are something

for the generation coming through now.

for his turn in Cabaret demonstrates Young’s

that preoccupies his mind, although to be

It’s even more cut-throat than it was then.

affinity with acting and performance, as well

fair he’s no different to the rest of us in that

Talent shows are there to give someone a

as music, and those are ambitions he hopes

respect. “I’m 32 now, so of course I’m getting

launch pad, and that’s great, but you get the

to further explore. Indeed, that rousing

a little more aware of the ageing process,” he

feeling now that it’s more about ratings and

display alongside Dame Judi Dench proved

laughs, nervously. “I’m vain but not obsessed.

sensationalist TV than music, I think. Pop

the versatile and affable star could hold his

I look in the mirror every day and see

Idol looks like it was filmed in the 1970s

ground in the company even of legendary

something I’m not fond of but that’s true of

by comparison, although I take partial

Oscar winners. Since then, he furthered his

all of us.

responsibility for that,” he laughs, offering a

cinematic lot by investing in Ralph Fiennes

“I see bags under my eyes and it’s clear

knowing nod. Further evidence, indeed, that

star-studded adaptation of Shakespeare’s

I’m getting older. I think guys tend to age

his Jackson 5 rendition probably won’t ever

Coriolanus.

quite sympathetically though, so I’m clinging

leave him, as much as he’d like it to!

48



Food

Food Bites

Hop aboard the Sussex Gourmet Bus Tour

Tickets are already on sale for the food festival’s Autumn Harvest gourmet bus tour on Saturday 14 September. The vintage Routemaster whisks you behindthe-scenes at some of Sussex’s top producers. The full itinerary hasn’t been revealed yet (as that would spoil the surprise) but £65 per person gives you a full day of tastings and a gourmet lunch. www.brightonfoodfestival.com

Food and Drinks pages edited by Nick Mosley Photographs by Julia Claxton

The best of Sussex in the heart of the city Terre á Terre has got it wrapped

Brighton’s award-winning and internationally acclaimed vegetarian restaurant, Terre á Terre, has revamped its takehome product lines with funky new packaging. Enjoy Boozy Rum Truffles, Ginger Chilli Chelly, and Merlot Onion Marmalade from the comfort of home. Perfect for a unique Brighton foodie gift. 71 East Street, Brighton, BN1 1HQ • 01273 729 051 • www.terreaterre.co.uk

It’s all about Mimi

Without a doubt, the big news on the Sussex drinks front is the astounding new sparkling cider from Stopham Vineyard in Pulborough. Made by assistant winemaker Tom Bartlett in the méthode champenoise using a combination of Sussex cider and dessert apples, its a delicious alternative to sparkling wine. You can buy now from Butler’s Wine Cellar in Queen’s Park and Kemp Town Village... but hurry as there are only a few thousand bottles in this first vintage. www.stophamvineyard.co.uk 50

Nick Mosley, director of the Brighton & Hove Food and Drink Festival, celebrates the recent launch of the Brighton Farmers Market I’m pleased to be able to report that the Brighton & Hove Food and Drink Festival’s new monthly farmers market continues to grow following its launch earlier this spring. The market took two years of work alongside Brighton & Hove City Council to establish, and now offers a host of locally grown and produced food straight from Sussex growers and makers, every third Saturday of each month. Located alongside the War Memorial on Old Steine, Brighton, choose from seasonal fruit and vegetables from Laines Organic and Barcombe Nurseries, the freshest fish and seafood straight from the boats at Newhaven courtesy of Jems, artisan breads from Flint Owl Bakery plus an amazing selection of homemade pies, cakes and quiches. Its a small step in making accessible and affordable local food available to the residents of our city in an economically sustainable way that benefits everyone. An important consideration for the festival team when we were putting together the farmers market was creating an event that complements and adds to the town centre experience, rather than competing with it. I think we’ve done a great job so make a date to join us! To contact Nick email nick@sharpmediagroup.co.uk • For more information about the Brighton Farmers Market and the food festival’s Autumn Harvest visit www.brightonfoodfestival.com


Interview: Robb Carr, Hotel du Vin We catch up with Rob Carr, head chef at Hotel du Vin, to chat menus and local sourcing.

Food

Three great Brighton dining experiences to try this month

How long have you been running the kitchen at Hotel du Vin? I’ve been head chef here for eight years. Prior to that I was head chef at Hotel Du Vin Bristol, but I’ve also worked at La Caprice, Chez Bruce, The Ivy and J Sheekey’s.

AguaDulce

Brighton’s most authentic Spanish family-owned restaurant serving a great selection of food from tapas to main meals. Ask for the specials – the octopus is definitely not to be missed – and enjoy live flamenco on Thursday evenings. As owner Carlo says, its a taste of Spain without the plane! 10-11 Kings Road (by the Queen’s Hotel), Brighton, BN1 1NE • 01273 328 672 • www. aguadulce-restaurant.com

What’s the most unusual food request you’ve had from a guest? A Spice Girl once asked for her veggies to be boiled and blitzed up to resemble baby food for her fad diet. Hotel du Vin have just launched a new menu, which dishes are your favourites? The scallops as a starter are beautiful they go really well with a nice Chablis. They’re local to us so they come in really fresh. How important is local and seasonal to you, and how is that reflected on your daily specials menu? We’ve really seen from the food festival what Brighton has to offer. Whether it be getting a local ale for my beer battered haddock and chips in the pub, or the three different local fish suppliers I use to ensure I get the best quality and widest variety for the specials. I’m always on the hunt for new produce to enhance the guests experience.

“I’m always on the hunt for new produce to enhance the guests experience.”

Tell us about your fantastic Sunday Brunch...

La Choza Quite possibly the hottest ticket in town, this funky little Mexican restaurant serves up some of the best food this side of Chihauhau. Try the pulled pork burrito but watch out for the heat on the hot salsas! Oh, and a margarita is obligatory. 36 Gloucester Road, Brighton BN1 4AQ • 01273 945 926 • www.lachoza.co.uk

I don’t want to tell you about it as its full to bursting point every week and I don’t want to encourage any more people as I need a day off! But seriously, nowhere else will you find oysters, fresh crab, Serrano ham carved off the bone, smoked salmon, potted mackerel and tiger prawns on an all-you-can-eat buffet followed by a choice of mains and desserts or cheeses for just £22.95 per person. Oh, and soup to start with if you’re really hungry! Pub du Vin’s scotch eggs are legendary – what’s the secret? The sausage meat is made by a local farmer and butcher... you’re only as good as your suppliers. The curried mayonnaise goes so well with it too. We sell most scotch eggs on Saturday and Sunday afternoons so it must be a good hangover cure! We had someone take ten home the other day, which made me chuckle.

3-6 Ship Street, Brighton, BN1 1AD • 01273 718 588 • www.hotelduvin.com Music and Food at Al Duomo If you want to entertained while you eat, there are plenty of themed nights at Al Duomo. Monthly live music events include Suspiciously Elvis, Boogie Cabaret and disco, a Michael Buble tribute, La Vie en Rose and opera. Check the website for dates and bookings. www.alduomo.co.uk

the restaurant at drakes The highest rated restaurant in the city for the fourth year by the Good Food Guide, if you haven’t been to Drakes for a while then nows the time to revisit. The new, seasonal Sunday lunch menu has just been launched offering a gourmet two courses for £20 or £25 for three. 43-44 Marine Parade, Brighton, BN2 1PE • 01273 696 934 • www.therestaurantatdrakes.com

51


Kemp Town’s Newest Restaurant

A Haven of Decadence French, Mediterranean Cuisine • Breakfast • Daily 2-3 Course Lunch • New A La carte Dinner Menu • Daily Specials

Live Entertainment Saturday nights - featuring The Piano Man Sunday nights - featuring Gio’s Bluesnotes

22 St James’ Street, Brighton BN2 1RF 01273 693444 www.bettylalas.com • All major credit cards accepted • 10% discount available to all Amex and NHS staff

taste waist ...new place! We’ve always served our customers truly delicious yet surprisingly healthy fresh food and drinks and with a NEW LoveFit now open on Queens Rd it’s even easier to get some. To celebrate we’re offering all Absolute Readers 20% OFF at both our cafés during June ‘13. Quote ‘Absolute’ when ordering. (For Eat in or Takeaway. Not in conjunction with other offers)

In our kitchen

Is key. When it comes to taking shortcuts our policy is simple We don’t take them. Nothing leaves our kitchen chopping board unless we’re 100% satisfied, not only that it is absolutely delicious, but also that we’ve made it in the healthiest possible way. All our food has nutritional information and Weightwatchers Pro-Points so you can make the right choices.

fit fresh food 110 Queens Rd, BN1 3XF

14 Brighton Sq, BN1 1HD

01273 777941 www.lovefit.co.uk

Espresso Bar – Juice & Smoothie Bar - Protein Shakes - Breakfasts — Panini — Salads – Toasties – cakes


guestlist What? Lovefit CafĂŠ celebrated their new opening Where? 110 Queens Road in Brighton Why?

1

A healthy option for your lunch time needs Who? 1.The LoveFit Team with owners Steve Lampard and Jason Bright. 2. Harj Bal 3. Nuria, Laura & Jose 4. Olivia Kenny & Emily Marie (Personal Trainer) with Steve Lampard and Jason Bright

2

3

If you would like your event in Absolute Brighton contact our sales team at guestlist@absolutemagazine.co.uk

4

53


Restaurant Review

A GrAnd TAsTe of The seA With GB1, The Grand has a destination restaurant to be proud of, says Peter James

I

’ve always had a love of good country house hotels, and I am lucky – most of the time – to stay in them frequently on my book promotion tours around the UK and overseas. Over the years I’ve had the full gamut from the truly horrendous, Baskerville Court

Hotel at Hay-on-Wye, in 1989,which made Faulty Towers look like the Savoy – although I hear it is now totally transformed – to magical Chewton Glen, in the New Forest, where the attention to details includes providing you with postcards in your room with stamps on, and to the Bas-Breau at Barbizon, near Paris, which unpacked our cases and valeted my car while we were enjoying cocktails. Cyril Connelly once famously said the great enemy of promise was the pram in the hallway. The hospitality equivalent has to be the coach in the car park.Does anything give you a greater feeling of doom and despondency than to arrive at what looked an idyllic hotel on the brochure and from the reviews, to find a garish charabanc plastered with a tour operator’s name, coming into view? And even if the management hide the coach, they can’t hide its contents. In my view it is the guests who are a big part of the atmosphere of any restaurant. I recently stayed at the utterly fabulous Queen Victoria hotel in beautiful Sidmouth – but at breakfast in the morning I felt I had walked into an old folks home by mistake. I didn’t have dinner there because there was a sign informing guests that ties were mandatory. I’m sorry, but that is such idiotic thing to demand of guests. As anyone who read Fifty Shades Of Grey knows, what looks more attractive than a man in a black jacket and crisp white open-necked shirt? Certainly not a bunch of duffers with their necks pinched by badly ironed shirts, and sporting hideous golf club ties at half mast and on which they are wearing most of yesterday’s breakfast. Such a joy that so many top London establishments have seen the light (Ritz excluded) – and indeed some, such as Soho House, have actually banned the wearing of ties!

54


Restaurant Review One of the nicest country house hotels I’ve stayed in recently is Bailiffscourt at Climping – a short hop from Brighton. This is a glorious Lutyens designed country house, with a beautiful pool and spa, oozing luxury and charm, all under the watchful eye of a brilliant, passionate manager – and the food is superb,. Should you find yourself in Derby – and some people do, in search of the Peak District or a Rolls Royce aero engine – there is a nice gaff called Zest to eat at – but book upstairs, much nicer, and if, like me, you are not crazy on overdosing on cream avoid the tasting desert menu, which was basically ten different ways to stick things on top of cream, inside cream and underneath cream. But their salmon blinis and guinea fowl were superb and they had an astonishingly good wine list – and delightful, attentive staff. One of my real bête noirs is a restaurant that is happy to sell you a bottle of wine upwards of thirty, maybe fifty, maybe one hundred pounds, or more, and then have their lowest paid and most dim-witted staff member serve it to you, filling your glass to the brim, and then placing the bottle so far out of reach you need to take a taxi to go and get it. Among my worst experiences ever was at The Grand Hotel’s reopening in 1986, after the IRA bombing. The waitress came up to our table with a bottle of white wine, the temperature of lukewarm tea, and asked me which glass she should pour it into. There was a fairly simple choice – a water tumbler or a wine glass. I am very glad to report that, under its brilliant manager, Andrew Mosley, who has an eye for every detail, and consummate good taste, The Grand has today recovered a lot of its former glory. Attentive, liveried doormen set the tone. Afternoon tea is a truly hedonistic experience. But I think the real triumph is its new fish and seafood restaurant GB1. The dreary old restaurant has been ripped out and in its place is a really great space, with a central circular bar, and a great array of tables, some with seafront views from the conservatory part. I’ve eaten there three times, and whilst I have heard rumblings

I am a big fan of Scotts in Mount Street London, which I consider to be the best fish restaurant in London, if not the world. GB1 gives it a run for its money of teething troubles, I’ve not had anything

La Cote Flamenc, Picpoul de Pinet (a sure-

other than a great experience on each

fire sign of a sommelier who knows his

occasion.

wines) at a steal, £26, and the A20 Albarino

The menu includes a really good and

Rias-Baixas – my favourite lunchtime

inventive range of oyster options, crab,

quaffer, at a respectable £38. Their Bubbly

prawns, lobster and, something I’ve not

list is equally well chosen, and a delight, as

seen on a Brighton menu for a long time,

ever, to see the top end of Sussex’s own

Sevruga and Beluga caviar. I am a big fan

Nyetimber up there.

of Scotts in Mount Street London, where

There is a fine selection of reds and of

I eat often, and which I consider to be the

roses, and also, great to see, desert wines.

best fish restaurant in London, if not the

I have just one criticism of this whole

world. GB1 gives it a run for its money.

wine list – who forgot to put the years

I’ve not had a disappointing dish here. The

on – surely on some of the wines, vitally

whitebait was delicious, and not mugged

important information?

by batter as in so many places, but cooked

But overall, GB1 is a triumph of style,

to perfection in the lightest touch of

service and quality of food. A destination

tempura. The beetroot salad was inventive

restaurant that Brighton has so badly

and beautifully presented. The fish pie

needed for so long.

makes you realise how sad most of the supermarket varieties are. Lightly curried skate was one of the best versions of this fish I have ever eaten. For carnivores, there are a host of meat options, and, in a very smart move for this city, there are six vegetarian options. The wine list, as you would expect of a hotel of this stature, is comprehensive. For lunchtime, I would strongly recommend two of my favourites – the bargain priced white, Muscadet de Sevre et Maine, at £22,

55


LISTINGS Compiled by Sarah Jackson Theatre Royal, Brighton

Latest Music Bar, Brighton

Brighton Dome

14 - 17 Manchester St Brighton BN2 1TF

BoxOffice: 08700 606 650 Sun 2nd June Sally Morgan: Psychic Sally on the Road Start 7.45pm £24.50

www.thelatest.co.uk/musicbar BoxOffice: 01273 687171

www.brightondome.org BoxOffice: 01273 709 709

Wed 5th June Tango Boot Camp – every Wednesday Doors 8.00pm £3.00 - £8.00

Mon 3rd June – Sun 9th June Diamond Start 7.30pm £12.50 - £17.50

Thurs 6th June – Fri 7th June Three Phantoms Start 7.30pm £24.00-£33.00 Being Tommy Cooper @ Theatre Royal

Mon 10th June – Sat 15th June Beautiful Thing Start 2.30pm/7.45pm £10.00- £32.50 Mon 17th June Being Tommy Cooper Start 7.30pm £10.00£25.00 Tues 18th June Jimmy Tarbuck Start 7.45pm £20.00 Wed 19th June Shaolin Warriors: Return of the Master Start 7.30pm £16.00-£25.00 Thurs 20th June Halfway to Paradise: The Billy Fury Story Start 7.45pm £20.00-£21.00 Fri 21st June Thank You For The Music Start 7.45pm £17.50-£23.00 Sat 22nd June Rainy Days & Mondays: The Carpenters Greatest Hits Live Start 7.30pm £18.50-£20.50 Mon 24th June – Sat 29th June The Pitman Painters Start 2.30pm/7.45pm £10.00-£32.50

56

Church Street Brighton BN1 1UD

Thurs 6th June Rosco Levee & The Southern Slide Doors 8.00pm £6.00 (£5.00 advance) Fri 7th June Brighton Hellenic Nights present The George Kypreos Band Doors 8.30pm £8.00 (£6.00 students)

Tues 11th June Charity Chuckle Doors 8.00pm £8.00 (£5.00 students) Thurs 13th June Catalyst Club Doors 8.00pm £5.00 Tues 18th June Café Scientifique Doors 7.30pm Free Thurs 20th June Club Criminal Doors 9.00pm £3.00 (£2.00 students) Fri 21st June Amy in the Winehouse Doors 8.30pm £8.00 Wed 26th June Blue Rose Code Doors 8.00pm £7.00 (£6.00 advanced) Sun 30th June Brighton Twisted Market Doors 12.00pm £5.00

Sat 8th Jun Reginald D Hunter Start 8pm £23.00 Fri 14th June SOURCE New Music Start 8.00pm £14.00 Mon 17th June Hugh Laurie Start 7.30pm £32.50-£35.00 Wed 19th June Steve Winwood Start 7.30pm £29.50 Tue 25th June Jimmy Carr Start 8.00pm £25.00 Over 16s only Thurs 27th June PiL Start 7.00pm £25.00 Reginald D Hunter @ The Dome


Komedia, Brighton

Brighton Centre, Brighton

44 - 47 Gardner St Brighton BN1 1UN www.komedia.co.uk BoxOffice: 0845 293 8480

Kings Road, Brighton BN1 2GR

The Old Market, Brighton

11A Upper Market Street, Brighton

BoxOffice: 0844 847 1515

www.theoldmarket.com BoxOffice: 01273 201801

Thurs 6th June Krater Comedy Club Award winning comedy every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Start 7pm/10.30pm £10.00-£13.50 Over 18s only.

Tue 7th June Killer Queen starring Patrick Myers Start 6.30pm £18.50 - £25.00

Tues 4th June District 3 Doors 7.00pm £17.50 - £35.00

Fri 14th June – Sat 15th June The Eco Technology Show 2013 Start 9.00am £5.00

Fri 21st June – Sat 22nd June Jam Tarts: Tart Attack Start 7.30pm £8.50

Fri 7th June Jackport Club Start 11.00pm Free Over 18s only.

Fri 21st June The Moody Blues Start 7.00pm £39.50

Sun 23rd June Three Bonzos and a Piano: 50th Anniversary Year Start 8.00pm £13.00 - £15.00

Sun 9th June Melting Vinyl Presents… Sallie Ford and the Sound Outside Start 8.00pm £8.00 Over 14s only. Thurs 13th June The Noise Next Door Start 8.00pm £10.00 - £21.00 Over 14s only. Fri 14th June DEEP BLUE Start 8.00pm £10.00 Over 14s only. Thurs 27th June Comic Boom Start 8.00pm £5.00 - £12.50 Over 18s only.

Sat 22nd June Elvis Costello & The Imposters Start 7.00pm £37.50 - £42.50

Thurs 4th July Stiff Promotions Present EZIO Start 8.00pm £10.00 Over 14s only.

Wed 3rd July Strictly Confidential Start 2.30pm/7.30pm £19.50 - £39.50

Hove Town Hall

Norton Road Hove BN3 4AH

Brighton Centre New ticket releases Thurs 24th Oct Bill Bailey: Qualmpeddler Start 6.30pm £25.00

Sun 15th Dec Diversity - Limitless Start 1.45pm/7.00pm £23.50 - £33.50

Wed 6th Nov Jessie J Start 6.30pm £25.00-£32.50

Mon 16th Dec JLS Start 7.00pm £37.20

BoxOffice: 01273 290000 Tues 4th June Sussex’ Finest Boxing Event Doors 6.30pm

57


Music

Music News Tom Odell Album Release

Brighton Music Awards Return

Fatboy Slim to headline Festival

Chichester artist Tom Odell has

Since 2010 the Brighton Music Awards

Jersey Live Music Festival will be

announced the release date of his delayed

have been celebrating thegreatest new

celebrating its 10th anniversary this year

debut album ‘Long Way Down’ as June

talent throughout Sussex and this year the

with Brighton-based DJ Fatboy Slim set

24th. The singer-songwriter, signed to Lily

BMA are back to reward and recognise

to headline the opening night. Brit award

Allen’s record label In The Name Of, will

contributors to music.The awards will

winner Fatboy Slim has more than 20

be releasing the album as a follow up to

be held on June 21st at the Clarendon

years experience in the music industry,

his 2012 EP Songs from Another Love.

Centre, Brighton, withlive performances

previously headlining big festivals such as

The new album will feature tracks such

from Kovak, Dead Red and Rubylux plus

Glastonbury and Bestival.

as ‘Another Love’ and recent single ‘Hold

many more. Award categories on the night

Me’, with fans of the Critics Choice award

include band of the year, best solo artist,

winner able to hear the new singles when

best song, best video, best DJ and best

he embarks on his UK tour later this year.

music venue.

The Levellers 25th Anniversary Gig Described by many as Brighton’s most successful band, The Levellers, who rose to stardom in the 90’s, are playing an exclusive homecoming gig to mark 25 years in the music business. The folk band will be performing at St Bartholomew’s church on July 19th, following the release of their anti-war EP ‘Recruiting the Sergeant’ which is in aid of War Child. Connor Maynard at Wireless Branded the UK version of Justin Beiber, Brighton artist Connor Maynard is set to perform at this year’s Wireless festival at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park on July 12th. After rising to success last year, the ‘Can’t Say No’ singer has performed at the Capital Summertime Ball as well as winning MTV’s New for 2012 Award.

58


GIG GUIDE Ezio- Sat 1st Jun @ Komedia Loose Lips- Sun 2nd Jun @ Prince Albert Meat Muppets- Mon 3rd Jun @ The Haunt Hillfolk Noir – Tue 4th Jun @ The Prince Albert Touring in the UK for the first time in 2012 and returning to Idaho with rave reviews, folk band Hillfolk Noir are returning to the UK to promote their new album ‘Radio Hour’. Bringing a mixture of folk, country and rock ‘n’ roll to Brighton’s Prince Albert.

Dave McPherson – Mon 10th Jun @ The Prince Albert Best known for being the lead singer in 90’s rock band InMe, and scoring number a one in the UK rock chart, Essex born and bred Dave McPherson is proving to have a well earned solo career. After touring relentlessly and independently releasing his EP songs, he is taking to the stage at The Prince Albert.

Toro Y Moi- Wed 5th Jun @ Concorde 2 O.Chapman – Thurs 6th Jun @ Sticky Mike’s Frog Bar OPM – Fri 7th Jun @ Sticky Mike’s Frog Bar UK Subs – Sat 8th Jun @ The Haunt Sallie Ford and the Sound Outside – Sun 9th Jun @ Komedia

The Moody Blues– Fri 21st Jun @ Brighton Centre

The Curst Sons – Thurs 13th Jun @ The North Laine Knifeworld- Fri 14th Jun @ Prince Albert Sir Cliff Richard – Sat 15th Jun @ Sussex County Cricket Ground

For more than 30 years, The Moody Blues have been taking to concert stages and the Brighton Centre will be no exception. Selling more than 55 million albums throughout the world, and awarded 18 platinum records they have received numerous awards one being Number One World Group Award.

With over 50 years experience in the music industry, pop legend Sir Cliff Richard is bringing the Still Reelin’ & A- Rockin’ tour to the County Cricket Ground. Known as the first original British rock and roller after his 1958 hit ‘Move It’, Cliff has obtained the title of the third highest selling singles artist on UK records, as well as selling 250 million records throughout the world. Matt Andersen – Sun 16th Jun @ The Palmeria The Fresh & Onlys – Mon 17th Jun @ The Haunt Adam Bomb – Tue 18th Jun @ The Green Door Store S.S.S – Wed 19th Jun @ Prince Albert

Xavier Rudd – Sat 22nd Jun @ Concorde 2 Blue Orchids – Sun 23rd Jun @ The Green Store Door Bob Wayne- Tue 25th Jun @ Prince Albert PiL – Thurs 27th Jun @ Brighton Dome Devendra Banhart – Fri 28th Jun @ The Old Market The Sunshine Soul Revue – Sat 29th Jun @ The Brunswick Scott & Charlene’s Wedding – Tue 2nd July @ The Green Store Door White Cliff – Wed 3rd July @ Audio Southern Tenant Folk Union – Fri 5th July @ The Palmeria Marcus Miller – Sat 6th July @ Glynde Place Modest Mouse – Mon 8th July @ Concorde Dave Evans – Wed 10th July @ Sticky Mike’s Frog Bar MS MR – Thur 11th July @ The Haunt Amanda Palmer and the Grand Theft Orchestra – Sat 13th Jul @ Concorde 7 Seconds – Sun 14th July @ The Haunt 59


Music

Herbie Plays Again Herbie Flowers is quite simply a living legend. He has played with the greats and his passion for music is infectious. This month he is hosting the Sunday at the Sussex Music Festival. Words and Photos: Ian Trevett

“I

am just a mischief-maker.”

the ‘war criminal’ Tony Blair and he vents his

Happy is a term I associate with Herbie.

We are chatting about music in

fury against anyone in society who takes but

The first time I saw Herbie perform was

Herbie Flowers’ Ditchling home,

doesn’t give back.

many years ago at the Komedia when

the cosy front room filled with

“I’m an old Luddite. I believe everyone

he was introducing a line-up of talented

sculptures as part of the Art Open House,

should work and everyone should get paid.

musicians, propping up his heavy double

when he comes out with this startling

For every pound you earn you should create

bass, clearly enjoying the experience. It

statement. Startling, at least for a man who

a pound’s worth of work for someone else.

was only when I looked into his career I

pays his bills by playing music. “All music

People don’t own music, but if someone

realised just how influential he has been.

should be free,” he says.

wants to pay me to play music then that is

According to the source of all modern

“I love it that kids download free music.

fine. Then I should put the money back in

day information, Wikipedia, by the end of

It’s how it should be. Serves the record

the system. No-one understands what I am

the 1970s Flowers had played bass on an

companies right! They were far too greedy.”

talking about. When I see The Rolling Stones

estimated 500 hit recordings.

Greed is a common theme during our

take in a hundred million quid, I find it a bit

The 500 hits included some truly iconic

conversation. Just turned 75, the fire in

unfair, that all this money is taken out of

moments, notably the improvised bass

Herbie shows no sign of abating. He rails

circulation.”

on Lou Reed’s Walk on the Wild Side and

against the government cuts, the impact

This may seem like a furious rant, and I

Bowie’s classic Space Oddity. When I asked

he sees at first hand with the disabled kids

suppose it is, but Herbie is hardly a force of

him about these moments, Herbie brushed

he loves to inspire through music, who are

anger. His broad grin and laughter punctuates

them aside as unworthy of comment, as

losing funding for their care. He rages against

the conversation. “I’m quite an extremist but

he was simply a session musician doing

politicians, from the jobsworth councillors to

a happy one, because I am mad and old.”

his job. He bristles at the thought that he

52


By the end of the 1970s Flowers had played bass on an estimated 500 hit recordings

has created something so important. His

Music first came into Herbie’s life when

night, to the extent that he felt he was dying

contemporaries and fans would disagree. In

he joined the school band at Tiffin School

inside. But music has such a power that any

the subhead of this feature I referred to him

a posh school near Richmond. “I hated the

boredom can be forgotten when something

as a living legend, which he is. But I know

school and the sports like rugby or cross-

touches your soul.

Herbie won’t thank me for such a statement.

country but I would bunk off to the music

“I never forget the first time I heard Charlie

Sorry Herbie.

room. Later I became a bandsman during my

Parker. It blew me away. I felt like I had come

His contribution is recognised by greats

national service, which was a good way of

out of a tunnel. “

such as Paul McCartney and Elton John but

getting out of the action.

Jazz has been the big inspiration for Herbie

Herbie just won’t recognise this. “I heard

“I am not very good on the bass or double

and there is a fantastic opprtunity to hear

Elvis Costello on a radio show refer to the

bass, I’m not good enough to play in the

him play at the Sussex Festival of Music,

Herbie Flowers effect. What does he know

Brighton Philharmonic. I’m just a busker.”

where he has assembled a talented group of

- short arse! He was saying that if a musician

I have to say that by now I was starting to

musicians and performers.

contributes something different to a record

worry about Herbie’s self-esteem, not that

As always it is guaranteed to be great fun.

they should get a cut. That’s rubbish, it is the

I should worry. He lives a life that he loves,

Almost as much fun as drinking coffee

artist who creates the song.”

spending his life playing music. At times in

and eating cake at the home of one of the

Typical stubborn Herbie.

his career he has played in music pits at the

county’s great characters.

“I have no pride in the music I have created.

theatre, playing the same songs night after

www.sussexfestivalofmusic.co.uk

It’s a bloody nuisance. Every time I check my inbox, there’s about 500 emails asking what it was like to work with Bowie and Lou Reed. Did Bowie and me have a fight on tour? All these questions. I don’t want to tell stories, I respect the privacy of people I worked for.” He simply enjoys playing and earning a wage for a day’s work. When we met he was in the middle of a run of Sunday morning Jazz

I’m not good enough to play in the Brighton Philharmonic. I’m just a busker.

breakfasts at the marvellous Spiegeltent. 61


Absolute Art By Jamie McCartney

SCULPTURE VULTURE It’s not a flippin’ donut, ok??

have studied in Geography lessons, before Google replaced learning.

I bet that’s what Hamish Black would like to shout every day about his

continents. So what you have is a sort of globe (if a pretty weird one).

name-changing sculpture on the end of the groyne by the pier. I would ask him to comment but I can’t be bothered. I come from the ‘never let the truth get in the way of a good story’ school of journalism.

Closer inspection will also show that lines of longitude form regular, radial grooves around its surface along with these deeply recessed Don’t worry if it doesn’t instantly say ‘globe’ to you; it is only inspired by one. It’s a ‘taurus form’ apparently, which is what would happen if you took a badly inflated beach ball globe and pushed the poles

Don’t worry though, it’s all going to be fascinating anyway.

inwards until they touched. See? Now it makes sense.

So, as you know there is a huge, green, bronze bagel by the pier. It’s

The thing about public art, though, is that whatever the inspiration,

been there ages. The thing is, most people have no idea why it’s there or what it’s all about. To most of Brighton’s denizens and the odious steam of badly dressed grockles that make the beach so untidy and uninviting it’s just ‘The Bagel’ or ‘The Donut’ and that’s it. Well not any more, I’m about to spoil the mystery or put you out of your misery

with the best will in the world most people just won’t get it. Frankly, why should they? Some kind of explanation posted nearby might have been a service to the artist and to the public who may be persuaded to read about the sculpture rather than write on it. Duh!! Why do they never put plaques to help us understand? You get them in

and shine a dim spotlight onto the proscenium of Brighton’s streets

galleries. Why not on the street? It’s not expensive!

and squares. That’s what ‘Sculpture Vulture’ is all about. I’m spilling

What is amazing to me is that Brighton Borough Council did at least

the beans on Brighton’s public art. What’s the sentence for defacing a

get something right when they commissioned a seaside sculpture with

landmark with tinned legumes?

a nautical theme, that didn’t involve dolphins, mermaids, ships or other

Anyway, back to you, because you don’t want me drifting off message

such dross that litters every seaside town from here to Blackpool and

too far. The sculpture of which I speak is actually called ‘Afloat’ and is not in fact a completely stupid waste of bronze. Nobody in their right mind would make a huge bronze donut and nobody would pay for it (except maybe in America). So if you were to slip down to the aforementioned groyne one morning (when the clucking hens and braying stags aren’t there) and have a proper look at it you will notice there are shapes cut into

back. Just think; we could have had another bloomin’ anchor, slick with a hundred years of bad black paintwork instead. The point is that once erected and left to the whims of the public, sculptures inevitably do take on a life of their own. That is what is quite nice about this piece in a way. It is what you want it to be and if crayon critics want it to be a billboard then so be it. Most of us though would seem to want it to be something else:

it, scattered between the stupid

affectionately, The donut, and that’s

graffiti. These shapes you will

fine. But if you want more information

soon recognise as the outlines

about the artist and his art it can be

of various continents you may

found at: www.hamishblack.com


GALLERY SPY A Cloud on the Horizon It’s not on the horizon actually, it’s tucked down an alleyway I never knew existed, at the far end of Brighton Place. It’s also only been there since the end of March, so you are forgiven if you haven’t yet discovered Cloud Gallery, the most recent addition to Brighton’s art scene. Nestling in the South Lanes this is a lovely little gallery space, set over two floors. To find it, just walk past Donatello’s, keep going and turn right at the end. It’s worth it… Offering an ever-changing selection of originals, limited edition prints and sculptures, priced when I visited from £75 to £7000, there is something there for all tastes and all pockets. That’s what is quite clever about Cloud, they mix and match a lot of different themes and styles of artworks in one gallery. The walls are busy with vibrant abstracts, beach scenes, animals, nudes and still lifes all vying for your attention. If you have a bit of wall or a niche you’d like to fill with art but don’t know what you want, this is a great place to start. Laura, the delightful manageress, will talk you through the collection in plain English, avoiding all the art nonsense. The group also has established galleries in

ART NEWS AND EVENTS

Worthing and Chester. By rotating the work between them there is always new art to see whenever you visit. Come back in two weeks

SALES

and half of it will have changed. Cloud has

Catch the studio relocation sale at Jamie McCartney Studios

of the most collectable artwork in the UK.

and Brighton Body Casting. Sculptures and Scanographic

Their portfolio includes the UK’s bestselling

Portrait Photographs prices are slashed as low as cost price.

artist Kerry Darlington, award-winning

They’ll never be this affordable again!

artists Mackenzie Thorpe and Sandra Orme,

www.jamiemccartney.com

and highly sought after sculptures by Emma

an enviable reputation for supplying some

Rodgers. They also show work by local and national emerging talent, which is good for new

ARTISTS INFO The Sussex Artists Club wants you!! Social and Business networking for local artists and arts professionals. Meetings

artists and for canny collectors looking for the next star. There was something unnerving but memorable about Toby Meader’s sheep portraits painted with real sheep’s wool and

every month at pubs and bars in central Brighton. This month

named after pop stars. Nice and innovative and

it’s at The Blue Man on Queen Street. See the website for

a bit bonkers, that’s what I like. Have a wander

details: www.sussexartistsclub.com

down to Cloud and check it out before it all gets rotated… www.cloudgalleryfineart.co.uk

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Promotion

MARINA LIfe Brighton Marina has developed into the foremost lifestyle destination in the city in recent years, Daniel White finds out why.

A

s local residents we all assume we know Brighton Marina, I did too until a recent visit where I was greeted with a treasure chest of new surprises.

Over the last few years Brighton Marina has seen numerous developments take place and while standing out as one of Europe’s largest marinas, it has also progressed as a leading lifestyle destination. So what’s new…. On arrival the marina was clean, safe, well presented and made so easy with customer parking absolutely free. The Laughing Dog was clearly a popular venue with a delightful gift store supplying alternative high-end products, a Café offering light bites with indoor and south facing outdoor seating around the fountain, plus a superb Art Gallery displaying a host of stunning work from a myriad of artists and private collectors. Pebble Beech is an Alladin’s Cave of treats. Overflowing with an amazing selection of gifts and accessories, you could spend hours here. If you’re seeking a theatrical piece off furniture check out Pebbles Furniture, with over 100 lines of Oak furniture and a vast display of over-sized clocks and grand mirrors. At Coco’s I found unusual furniture and crafts from far-reaching and exotic locations, which I was advised is handcrafted using recycled or plantation grown timbers. The hottest shop in town must be the Chilli Shop. It stocks over 500 chilli food products including chilli sauces, drinks, chocolates, curries and crisps, all receiving a Heat Rating out of ten, with free tasters from mild to wild.

64


Promotion

A recent addition to Mermaid Walk is The Parlour, available for coffee, a light lunch, delicious cakes, or have a Mezze and share it with a glass of wine or cold beer. For those looking to spend a weekend at the seaside relax at Hotel Seattle, one of Brighton’s best boutique hotels drenched in harbour views. Indulge yourself with a range of hair and beauty treatments available. Spa Tara, a newly opened Thai spa, provides luxurious treatments for complete relaxation in state-of-the-art facilities. Marina Dentalcare boasts the latest technology available and then there is the award winning Saks Hair & Beauty.

Make sure you take full advantage of what Brighton Marina has on offer and register today for your 2013 Gold Advantage Card. With amazing discount deals available all year round at 40 participating marina venues, the card is a must and will be nicer to your pocket. Brighton Marina has come a long way since its humble foundation in the late 70s. Today Brighton Marina stands as a leading entertainment destination awash with a range of activities in a welcoming and vibrant community.

To register for a Gold Advantage Card visit www.brightonmarina.co.uk

A range of restaurants make for a great selection, from French to Indian, American to Italian cuisine, the Boardwalk boasts fine dining for all. Outdoor activities are not overlooked either with the newly added Lagoon Watersports store and Premier Yachting extending the established range of nautical operators that includes Brighton Dive Centre, Ancasta and Sussex Yachts. For the grown-ups is Rendezvous Casino, offering great dining, bars and fun alongside the casino classics, including roulette, blackjack and poker tournaments in abundance, while numerous pubs provide the opportunity to enjoy the harbour views with friends.

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Film Cinema guide by Bill Murray

As blockbuster season approaches June offers some real movie treats for us and I am not talking tasty but hugely overpriced pop corn from the local picture house! The Hangover part 3 is released at the end of the month and this certainly looks like it has all the makings of a hilarious conclusion to this seminal “ladpack” comedy franchise Director Todd Phillips brings together Bradley Cooper, Zach Galifianakis and Ed Helms to conclude the trilogy. He has insisted that this third movie will act as a finale, with no more sequels to follow. We’ll believe that when we see it.. With the entire top line cast returning, expect another orgy of booze, fisticuffs, slapstick, celebrity cameos, mild sexism and run-ins with unexpected wild animals. All this plus a spot of hugging, learning and growing slapped on the end make for a slightly commercial but ever so funny offering that delivers an intoxicating mix too funny to resist. 3.5 out of 5 from me and keep a look out for its predecessors at the Big Screen this autumn. … The Ice Man Michael Shannon , Robert Davi , Chris Evans and James Franco all star in this gritty, violent, truth based gangster hokem. Directed by Ariel Vromen and released on June 7th this tells the alarming tale of mafia hit man Richard ‘The Iceman’ Kuklinski. Between 1948 and 1986 Kuklinski is rumoured to have murdered up to 250 people for New York’s Five Families and other Mafia clans. All the while, he lived quietly with his wife and three children in suburban New Jersey, to all outside appearances an entirely ordinary family man. ‘The Iceman’ stars Michael Shannon as Kuklinski, perfectly cast as the ruthless killer, with Winona Ryder in a welcome 62 66

return to centre stage as his dutiful wife Deborah. They’re backed up by an impressive ensemble cast including James Franco, Ray Liotta, Stephen Dorff, Robert Davi and David Schwimmer, playing a variety of Mafia hoods and FBI agents. The sparse dialogue and terse directing style leaves the film feeling a little cold and underwhelming though praise for the superb cast cannot come high enough! This may not reach Alan my publisher’s top five gangster classics but it’s a 3.5 from me well worth a trip to the cinema if not just for the incredible supporting cast.

After Earth Directed by the genius that is M Night Shyamalan and starring father and son, Will and Jaden Smith this could have been written specifically for the Smith boys. Set 1000 years after humans leave Earth, General Cypher Raige (Smith Sr) returns from duty to see his 13-yearold son, Kitai (Smith Jr). However their craft crash lands on the strange planet of Earth. In what sounds suspiciously

With the Big Screen launch coming around next month the beach by The Wheel will be transformed into Europe’s largest open air beach cinema event. Bars are being erected, sweet shops and traditional cinema food outlets created and a giant VIP Grandstand will be under construction in just a few short weeks. To book your own private event and enjoy great hospitality at the ultimate, all weather outdoor cinema experience go to www.brightonsbigscreen.com now. So get online or call 01273 204200 to reserve the perfect movie experience for your firm, family or Organisation in this unique setting this summer.

like a video game pitch, Kitai must then travel across the ruined planet to recover a rescue beacon before his father dies from his injuries. Judging by the very fancy press kit and stills this is a very slick and polished movie. What you have to bear in mind is that it’s a Shyamalan film too so expect plenty of twists along the way. Released on Fri June 7th this is easily a 3 out of five from me

See you next month with more movie news. Bill and the Big Screeners! Absolute top 5 films Caraline Brown, Director of Midnight Communications

Shawshank Redemption

The Vikings

It’s a Wonderful Life

Starring Tony Curtis, this is my favourite film ever.

I’m crying just thinking about it!

Gone with the Wind

Beaches

Seen it many times and know every word

Bette Midler rocks!

Above all a story of hope


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guestlist What? The Pink & Black Summer Ball Where? The Long Room at Sussex County Cricket Club Why? Jenny Rogers’ Birthday Who? 1.Hostess Jenny Rogers 2. Ray & Ellie Sayers

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3. David & Sharon Smith 4. Jeanette Wright & Kirsten Thomas 5. Robert Morris & Tina Healy 6. Susanne Wegscheider and Susie Taylor 7. The hosts 8. Matthew Van Kan 9. John & Eileen Harbour et al 10. Richard Little, James & Rose Hutton, Phil Collins and Steve Duffell 11. Liz & Nick Pitcher 12. Michael Pay, Rachel & Charlie Hepburn 13. Justin Williams, Alan Prior, Tahilyn & Barry Carden 14. Matt Van Kan & Jenny Rogers

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15. Richard & Kirsten Thomas, Tina Campanella, Kate Hobden, Becs & Rupert Killick 29

16. Happy Birthday to you 17. Sophie Mainwaring 18. Trisha Keith & Nick Barnes 19. Steve Kirkham and fellow sailors 20. Jo Black & Deborah Paul 21. Kim Cronin 22. Kathy Fitzpatrick, Hilary Carnoghan and Jo Newling 23. Pie mystery solved

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24. Katy & Alan Prior 25. Maureen Burton, Pat & Marie Mullins 26. Mandy & John Burroughs, Sue Rowe 27. Emma, Jenny, Jane and Rich 28. Magic Al kept everyone mystified 29. Lucy Rowe and Katy Prior 30. Rob Morris, John Healy, John Harbour 31. Iain & Louise McCall,

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Jeannette & Adrian Wright 32. Gossip girls 33. Barry and Tahilyn Carden 34. Alec Keith, Liz Pitcher, Pat Hobden

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If you would like your event in Absolute Brighton contact our sales team at guestlist@absolutemagazine.co.uk

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Breakfast at... Bohemia Grand Café ❖ Late Lounge Start your day with a Bohemia breakfast From Eggs Benedict to a traditional Full English hearty breakfast, our head chef will delight you with his superb dishes. Prices from £3.50-£7.50

Or simply enjoy a coffee!

Come and enjoy one of the best breakfasts in town...

Bohemia, 44-45 Meeting House Lane, Brighton.


Later, try a memorable AFTERNOON TEA Served between 3.00pm & 6.00pm Minimum 2 persons Traditional Sussex Afternoon Tea £14.00pp Tiered stand of finger sandwiches, homemade fruit scones, Cornish clotted cream and strawberry jam and homemade cakes. Served with a pot of loose tea of your choice Champagne Afternoon Tea £22.00pp Same as the Traditional Afternoon Tea and served with a glass of House Champagne

FRESH DAILY SELECTION OF CAKES

...see you there!

T: (01273) 777770

E: info@bohemiabrighton.co.uk W: www.bohemiabrighton.co.uk


Education

Choosing the first school Heather Miller, Head of Junior School at Burgess Hill School for Girls, offers tips on finding the right Pre-Prep School There is a strong link between high quality

should take the time to observe, listen and

early education and children’s healthy progress

understand what it is that makes every

through school and into adulthood.

child the person they are. At Burgess

So what should parents be looking for when

Hill School for Girls we strive to identify

selecting the right environment for their

a child’s strengths, interests, preferences

child’s first school?

and development pathway so that we can respond appropriately with experiences that

Partnership

are meaningful and tailored to the individual.

A pre-prep school should identify adults

Through an ongoing process of reflection and

and children as critical partners in the

evaluation we continue to ensure we provide

learning process. The emotional and cognitive

an outstanding level of education.

conditions for learning change little with age – we all learn best when we are motivated,

Security

interested and happy, engaged in experiences

Providing a secure emotional environment

that both fascinate and challenge us.

is paramount in a pre-prep school if a child

Confidence in ourselves as learners flourishes

is to flourish. Young children are active

necessary for life-long learning apply equally

when we know that our thoughts and feelings

learners and need opportunities to explore

to all. When the learning environment

are both sought after and valued. At Burgess

and make sense of the world, supported

is purposeful and meaningful, there is a

Hill School for Girls we encourage the pupils

by knowledgeable, interested and sensitive

contagious sparkle in the air. The children are

to develop their skills of enquiry, creativity and

teachers. They should be encouraged to

deeply engaged in their learning and their

critical thinking, problem-solving, reasoning

think creatively, knowing that their ideas and

confidence soars as they are free to move

and conflict resolution. We encourage them

contributions will be valued. At Burgess Hill

constructively on their learning journey.

to embrace the risks and challenges that all

School we encourage the girls to savour new

new learning brings.

experiences in an atmosphere of mutual trust

At Burgess Hill School we pride ourselves in

and respect. We believe that a happy ‘can do’

having that contagious sparkle where positive

Uniqueness

attitude is infectious and everyone benefits.

links between high quality education and

A child’s pre-prep school experience

Children learn from everything they do. A

children’s healthy progress through school are

should celebrate their uniqueness. Teachers

happy environment ensures the conditions

evident.

Pupils studying Art and Classics at Burgess Hill School for Girls spent six days in Italy viewing the Art in Rome. The 28 pupils visited the Vatican Museums and St Peter’s Basilica for the artwork and the Capitoline Museums where they viewed the sculptures of Michelangelo and Bernini. The girls also stayed in Sorrento and visited Pompeii and Herculaneum to see the remnants of the towns that were preserved by the Mount Vesuvius eruption in AD 79. The girls took an expedition up Mount Vesuvius but thick cloud cover and a sudden hail storm cut the visit short. Year 11 student, Eliza McHugh, commented, “We studied Pompeii as part of Year 7 Latin, and to see it for real gave a remarkable insight into Roman life. Herculaneum was even more impressive, although it was much smaller, it is much better preserved than Pompeii and the details like the graffiti and wall art grabbed our imaginations and aided our understanding of Roman life.” 72


“Passion and practice lead to achievement� Be the best you can be - Burgess Hill School for Girls

Find out more at:

www.burgesshill-school.com


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