Absolute Fashion March Issue

ISSUE 109. March 2014

PeTer anDre

WHAT PETER DID NEXT

Rebecca Ferguson

Why I am fInally free Julie Burchill and Julie Graham

NO TO DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Sick Festival

WELCOME TO THE FUTURE

HOUSEOFHOYE.COM

INFO@HOUSEOFHOYE.COM

22A SHIP STREET BRIGHTON

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01273 776097

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Issue 109 March 2014

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For all enquiries please contact: Lynne Edwards - Sales & Marketing Director lynne@absolutehomesmagazine.com 07931 537588

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Anya Zervudachi - Sales Manager Food & Drink anya@absolutemagazine.co.uk 07596 337828 Luke Thacker - Sales Manager Fashion & Beauty luke.thacker@absolutemagazine.co.uk pantone purple: 2623 07568 336402

Ian Trevett – Managing Editor ian.trevett@absolutemagazine.co.uk 07584 023635

Daniel White – Deputy Editor

Kate Morton – Fashion Editor kate.morton@absolutemagazine.co.uk

Frida Clementz - Head Designer

Hannah Goudman-Peachey - Designer

Alan Prior MD / Publisher

Absolute Publications Ltd The Pinnacle Group Premier House 11 Marlborough Place BRIGHTON BN1 1UB Tel: 08707 707 765 Fax: 08700 052 082 info@absolutemagazine.co.uk www.absolutemagazine.co.uk

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40

40. Peter Andre Since bursting onto British television screens with his No. 1 hit Mysterious Girl, the Brighton-based Aussie has been a staple of celebrity culture and we caught up with the three-time Dad of the Year to talk about Brighton, coffee and much more.

At A Glance 6 Fashion 30 HEALTH & FITNESS 37 STEPHEN GRANT 39 ZOE LYONS 40 PETER ANDRE

56 PETER JAMES 58 FOOD & DRINK 70 MUSIC 76 CINEMA 80 HISTORY 81 ART 83 TRAVEL

welcome .

The key to a great magazine is to feature interesting people and this month we have a wonderful selection of fascinating interviews.

For this issue we talked to Brighton’s adopted Australian Peter Andre, who tells us about his new coffee empire and how he explains fame to his children.

Rebecca Ferguson, one of the finest talents from The X Factor, explains how she has regained control of her life.

Daniel White chats to the Fratellis about their reunion.

Away from entertainment, Caraline Brown meets Julie Burchill and Julie Graham about the serious matter of domestic violence.

50

50. Lewes Guide Throughout its long and storied history, the county town of Lewes has built an enviable reputation, from homing The Father of the American Revolution, Thomas Paine, to its award-winning Harveys ale, however, now the quaint town has something else to shout about...

70

70. Rebecca Ferguson What has Rebecca Ferguson been doing since finishing runner-up in the 2010 X Factor final? We ask her this plus much more in our exclusive interview with the double platinum selling artist.

We discover more about the valuable work taken on by the Institute of Development Studies.

And we meet the couple who will tie the knot in the city’s (and hopefully, the nations) first same sex wedding.

It is a packed issue and a fantastic read.

Enjoy your Absolute Magazine.

Ian Ian Trevett – Managing Editor

MARCH hair PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHEN PERRY

PHOTOGRAPHY: Stephen Perry www.stephenperry.com HAIR & MAKEUP: Mathew Alexander: www.mathewalexander.co.uk BESPOKE HAIR ACCESSORIES: www.ninaraicouturehats.com MODEL: Ambra at M&P Models

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Following a £7m refurbishment programme completed last year this is your opportunity to explore the stunning event space. The Grand caters for intimate weddings and celebrations and also larger weddings in the impressive Empress suite, which has incredible sea views. Our bespoke wedding packages can be designed to fit your every need, and with your dedicated expert wedding planner on hand, you can relax in the knowledge that this, your big day that you’ve always dreamed of, will be the best day of your life. Like no other.

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wedding@grandbrighton.co.uk 01273 224 364 | www.devere-hotels.co.uk/thegrand The Grand, 97-99 King’s Road, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 2FW

THE HOUSE THAT HOYE BUILT Nationally acclaimed jewellery designer Jeremy Hoye talks to Daniel White about his fresh start.

After nearly two decades working in the same shop, selling the same products at the same till, going to work can lose its appeal.

For Jeremy Hoye, one of the UK’s leading contemporary jewellers, there is a simple answer, though.

“I wanted to reinvent ourselves because I think everything went a little staid and I’ve had the same look and feel to the business for the last ten years or so,” he explained. “So it’s now going to be called House of Hoye and I’m going to do smaller collections but more avant garde pieces, so put the fun back into it.”

during his years in Brighton that his customer base is not going anywhere else.

“I’ve had loyal customers who have been coming to me for 19 years, so I’ve seen them grow up and then I’ve seen their children grow up, then I’ve seen their children get engaged and married,” he joked.

“When people come here, they come here because they like what we do. You can’t please everyone, it would be great if you could but I think by trying to please everyone I was making things a bit boring so this is getting back to why I originally started.”

As part of the company’s reinvention, Hoye, who opened the jewellery shop on Ship Street in 1994, has completely restyled the interior of the shop as well as the brand and it has made him enjoy coming to work again.

Over the last decade Hoye has seen a remarkable rise in high street jewellers, building competition in the city. However, it is the basic principles, he feels, which has kept him at the top of the pile for so long.

“It’s brilliant!” he smiled.“I feel revitalised and I feel refreshed and you can see it coming out in the work now as well. So rather than doing things to fill gaps or to try and cover all bases in the shop, now I’m just making what I want to make.”

“It’s down to customer service, finding out what the customer really wants,” he clarified.

“A lot of the time they don’t really know what they want when they come in so you’ve got to kind of nurture them. We’re only better if people like our style, I think we try and give the best service we can give and that’s it really.”

Despite the dramatic change in branding, he has built such a reputation and following

- Fashion|Interview -

After working in London for many years, Hoye made the move down to Brighton not long before opening his shop and it is the broadminded culture of the city that makes his work so successful here.

“I’ve always liked Brighton so I moved here 20 years ago, I didn’t think there was anything like this at the time,” he explained. “It’s a friendly atmosphere and people are a lot more open.

You don’t realise until you leave Brighton and go somewhere and realise how open-minded people are here to things that are just a bit more unusual. It gives you the chance to be a bit more creative definitely and, after going and working in other places, I think in Brighton we’re lucky.”

So after completely revitalising the brand’s image, Hoye has only one plan of action.

He said: “I think just being true to myself and making what I want to make and hopefully that’ll mean lots of happy, loyal customers. I think that’s the plan.” www.houseofhoye.com

March 2014

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What Will We be Wearing next Winter i was lucky again to be invited to nYFW for A/W 2014.

What a great week full of fantastic designers and some great styles too. i came back very inspired and full of positive energy. it is great and amazing at the same time to see all this from the front row at new York Fashion week.

Mens Fashion by Igor Srzic Cartledge Fashion stylist

there is not enough space on my page to write about all of designers who left me inspired and amazed, so i have selected a few favourites...

www.personal-style.co.uk igor@personal-style.co.uk

Designer Custo Barcelona was great and I always look forward to seeing his show.

He chose to relinquish the busy pattern he is famous for. Instead of using clashing prints to get his message across he played with an idea of a guillotine splitting looks straight down to the middle and texture. When talking to the press he said “I wanted to create something special.”

It was aimed at the styles of 1980, after the power suits and disco, when people did not know what to wear.

Nicholas K-, the brother and sister Nicholas and Christopher, got their inspiration from the photo series Men at Sea. The series by French photographer and filmmaker Jean Gaumy tells the story of the struggles of deep sea fisherman in an heroic tone.

The collection delivered charcoal grey, midnight black, and atlantic blues, and cable knit sweaters. Amazing customized boots from Honeywell, male models came down the catwalk dressed in dark colour palette reflective of the sea.

Put together with fisherman hats and hooded parkas, the collection delivered a strong vision that brought the cold stern attitude of life by the sea.

Designer Jeremy Scott: Is Jeremy happy or angry or maybe kind of flirty? His collection consisted of playful and bold ambivalent colours, outrageous patterns with tones of peaceful bliss.

The rainbow spectacle he staged looked back to the nineties, and at moments it seemed to glance at the way the nineties looked to the seventies, and, well, if you took out your ‘detective monocle’, you’d, find a little bit of whatever you happened to look for.

It gave us something which we could easily see being worn in our vibrant city of Brighton and Hove.

I loved the mix and match of different colours and emotive patterns.

What will you be wearing next winter? I know what I will, a bit of everything.

If you do need any help with your spring summer or winter wardrobe you can contact me: www.personal-style.co.uk Photos: Style.com

- Fashion|Blog -

March 2014

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Directory Julian Stephens Goldsmith

Julian Stephens Goldsmith is a contemporary retail jewellery shop, showcasing Julian’s own exquisite collection of silverware, gold, platinum and palladium jewellery set with stunning precious gem stones. All our pieces are handcrafted in our workshop, and we love to work with our customers to bring their ideas to life and create unique bespoke items.

37 Gloucester Road, Brighton, BN1 4AQ Tel: 01273 692110 email: info@julianstephens.com www.julianstephens.com

Tramp Vintage Boutique

Nestled in the heart of Brighton’s famous North Laine, Tramp Vintage Boutique was founded in 2010 by Michelle Terras as a treasure box of unique items from the golden ages of fashion, targeting women of elegance with character in their style. We specialise in couture and accessories from the art deco 30s to the avant-garde 80s. Opening Hours: Monday and Tuesday – CLOSED Wednesday to Saturday – 11am-5pm Sunday 12pm-4pm 22 Trafalgar Street, North Laine, Brighton, 01273 687968

Exclusive Jewellery

At Exclusive Jewellery we believe in celebrating love. As an independent business we provide a personal service in a relaxed environment, taking the time to really understand our customer’s desires and provide them with an unparalleled experience. Using the latest in design software, we work with you to create the perfect piece to serve as a symbol of your everlasting love. 01273 777198 10 Union Street, Brighton, BN1 1HA

Woodies Brighton

www.trampvintageclothing.com

Woodies, Est in 1980, is located in Duke Street Brighton. Our aim is to bring the best brands from around the world to our customers and create a relaxed, informal, friendly shopping atmosphere. From suiting and leisure wear to contemporary fashion our aim is to have something of interest for everyone. Our global brands are Corneliani, Moschino, Richard James, Hugo Boss, J.Lindberg, Eton Shirts, Gant, Hackett, Paul & Shark with shoes from Oliver Sweeney, Loake & Jeffrey West completing our collection.

01273 776 777

Design Lab

Cloak

Design Lab is one of the largest Independent fashion clothing stores in the South. Located in the heart of Brighton town centre in Duke Street and known to many as “Brighton’s Best Brands” for casual-wear it offers a comprehensive, in depth collection from Denim Industry Giant Diesel. Other collections to complement these are Franklin & Marshall, Henry Lloyd, Gibson London, Boss Orange & Sweeney London shoes. Pay a visit to the coolest shop in Brighton and you would be chilled out! 01273 776 777

Located in the heart of the famous North Laine, Cloak is the freshest fashion retailer in the city! An urban style sanctuary covering 600 square meters, Cloak is a male and female contemporary retail space stocking some of the best labels in the world including Comme des Garcons, Mark Jacobs and Griffin, and with imports and limited runs you’ll be sure to make a statement. 01273 684469 shop@cloakstore.co.uk www.cloakstore.co.uk 1A Jubilee Steet, Brighton, BN1 1GE Mon - Sat: 10:00 - 18:00 Sun: 11:00 - 05:00

Thread

Pretty Eccentric Take a walk on the wild side with PRETTY ECCENTRIC. Exquisite collections inspired by the 1920s-1950s are created by Michelle Scott and curated in her jewel like boutiques to transform you into a beguiling seductress. Bows, frills and lashings of lace bring a shot of old-fashioned glamour, perfect for that special occasion. Finds: Exquisite lace dresses, dreamy silk kimonos, jewellery made ofVictorian artefacts, gin and Rosewater L’eau de parfum. Pretty Eccentric is a celebration of all things individual but above all beautiful. www.prettyeccentric.co.uk, info @prettyeccentric.co.uk, 10 Bond Street and Meeting House Lane, Brighton.

Thread is a new menswear Mecca, inspired by global travel, years of experience as clothing connoisseurs and challenging the “plain vanilla” offerings in stores and the web. All products are ethically sourced and respect high standards of fabrication and finish. With seasonal and perennial offerings available at our flagship store in Brighton’s South Lanes, and web-store www.thread-brighton.com, 9 Dukes Lane,

Hope & Harlequin

Aston Bourne

Thread is a new menswear Mecca, inspired by global travel, H&H is a vintage store with a difference.The hand years of experience as clothing connoisseurs and challenging picked the “plain vanilla” offerings in stores and the web.

All collection ranges from the ladylike 1900s the rock of and roll 1970s, and sits alongside small products are ethically sourced and respect hightostandards original modern collections and H&H made ready fabrication and finish. With seasonal and perennial offerings to wear pieces.They also stock an extensive range available at our flagship store in Brighton’s South andoriginal vintage wedding dresses and of Lanes, exquisite web-store a fabulous vintage inspired Made-to-Order Bridal www.thread-brighton.com, 9 Dukes Lane, Brighton, BN1 Featured in Vogue, Red magazine, Stella, collection.

Time Out, Homes and Antiques and You and Your 1BQ, 01273 746746 wedding amongst others, they have become a destination store for the discerning fashionista and bride. 01273 675222 www.hopeandharlequin.com

Brighton, BN1 1BQ, 01273 746746

Aston Bourne is part of C & H Weston who have been established in Brighton, East Sussex since 1819. C & H Weston have been the main Barbour Clothing and Authorised Hunter Boots Retail Stockists in Brighton and throughout East Sussex for over 25 yrs. New Barbour concept store opening next door this Spring 2014.

Mon - Sat: 09:30 - 17:30 Sun: 10:30 16:30, 01273 227775, info@astonbourne. co.uk, www.astonbourne.co.uk

To be featured in the fashionista directory please email Luke Thacker at: luke.thacker@absolutemagazine.co.uk - Fashion|Directory -

March 2014

│17

Hot models feel tHe Heat The winners from Next Hot Model 2013 headed to the Seychelles Islands to turn up the heat and live the highlife…

Charlotte Royal and Alex Marlow were whisked away on the trip of a lifetime to a photo shoot in the Seychelles, staying at stunning exclusive villas and hotels including Chateau Sans Souci, Carana Hilltop and The Coral Strand.

Seeing not only the main Island Mahe and capital city Victoria but the stunning ultra exclusive Praslin and La Digue Islands.

Now the competition for the Next Hot Models 2014 is really heating up with the competition extended across the south east.

Run in partnership with PRM London and a selection of media partners, the annual event is a project designed to discover, nurture and mentor male and female modelling talent. Heats are held over a four month period and over eight cities along the south coast attracting over 2,000 aspiring models, with an overall audience reach of over 190,000 consumers achieved via a combination of participants and media exposure.

18│

March 2014

Scouting Dates – all city centre locations.

Contestants must be at least 16.

POOLE - 28TH FEB SAT BOURNEMOUTH - 1ST MAR SAT PORTSMOUTH - 8TH MAR SAT SOUTHAMPTON - 15TH MAR SAT CHICHESTER - 21ST MAR FRI CRAWLEY - 22ND MAR SAT EASTBOURNE - 1ST APR SAT BRIGHTON - 10TH APR THUR BRIGHTON - 11TH APR FRI BRIGHTON - 12TH APR SAT

- Fashion|Next Hot Model -

For live updates on locations follow twitter/nexthotmodeluk Or enter online at www.nexthotmodel.co.uk/#!entry-form-2014/cqh3 Then the grand final will be held at the Hilton Brighton Metropole on the evening of the 6th June.

To find out more head to: www.nexthotmodel.co.uk

- Fashion|Next hot model -

March 2014

│19

Win One Month’s Spa Membership The Sp@ The Grand have teamed up with Absolute Magazine to offer one lucky winner the chance to win a magnificent prize worth up to £550. Experience one month’s membership at the sumptuous Day Spa and also indulge in a month of luxurious experiences at the iconic Grand Hotel Brighton.

This prize is not to be missed and includes the following: •

Unlimited use of the spa facilities including Thermal Suite with sauna and steam room, Relaxation Lounge and Spa Café, 7 days a week.

•

Credit of £100 to be used against spa treatments throughout the month.

•

Complimentary luxury bathrobes, slippers, towels and individually coded lockers available on each visit.

•

Full use of the hotel gym within opening hours.

•

1 night luxury hotel stay for two including Full English Breakfast.

•

Delicious Bento Box lunch in the spa.

•

Dinner for two in GB1 Seafood Restaurant and Bar.

•

Complimentary tea and coffee available in the Spa Café throughout each visit.

•

20% off any spa treatments from our spa menu to be used over and above your monthly credit.

•

20% off luxury spa retail products including Carita, ESPA, Jessica Nails and MII Cosmetics.

•

20% off food and beverage in our Spa Café, GB1 and The Victoria Lounge.

About The Sp@ The Grand

Lycon and MII make-up is also available. There is a sumptuous Thermal

Open daily, the spa which opened in May 2013, offers plenty to fill a

Suite comprising steam room, sauna and a peaceful relaxation lounge.

day of downtime with a full treatment menu of decadent treatments

The spa offers a choice of five fantastic membership packages from off

and express add-ons, including face, body and bespoke choices, care-

peak membership which starts from £60 per month to the exclusive

fully tailored to women and men, by natural skincare specialist ESPA,

(invitation only) Grand Membership. A membership at The Sp@ The

plus a range of luxury Carita face care treatments. Final flourishes such

Grand undoubtedly is the perfect antidote to a bustling lifestyle and is

as manicures and pedicures by chic nail care brand, Jessica, waxing by

a hidden luxury that everybody deserves.

To enter, tell us: How much does an off peak Spa Membership cost?

Please e-mail your answer and full name to membership@grandbrighton.co.uk Competition Terms: Prize includes one full peak individual membership valid for 1 month, £100 credit to use in the spa against treatments, an overnight stay in a deluxe room, full English breakfast for two, a three course meal up to the value of £80 per couple (food only). All correct answers will be chosen at random

from entries to The Sp@ The Grand and other related partners. Entry deadline 31st March 2014. Prize must be taken between 1 May and 31 May 2014 and is non-transferrable or refundable. Dates are subject to availability. All entrants and guests must be 18 or over. Other terms and conditions may apply.

The Sp@ The Grand, The Grand, Brighton, 97-99 King’s Road, BN1 2FW 01273 224313 • spa@grandbrighton.co.uk • www.devere-hotels.co.uk/thegrand 20│

MARCH 2014

- BEAUTY|COMPETITION -

Fashion Fix

It’s much anticipated and it feels like we’ve been waiting a long time for it.

Yes that’s right, spring is finally here. Along with the bunnies, daffodils and chocolate eggs, we have the new season fashion arrivals. There’s something for everyone from pretty pastels to collarless coats, boxy silhouettes and full bloom florals.

Words: Kate Morton

MY FASHION FIX...

Streamlined shapes have been the focus of many designer pieces for a few seasons now, think Victoria Beckham and the brand’s classic shapes, a-line skirts, shift dresses and minimalist detailing. With this in mind, this spring sees a strong focus on strong silhouettes in particular the long coat, but with the collar taking a back seat. I love this ontrend mint green collarless coat, perfect with cigarette pants or a pencil skirt. Collarless coat, River Island, 0844 576 6444

GET SHORTY

Outerwear gets edgier as sportswear goes luxe. Layering goes glamorous and jackets turn boxy. We’ve seen sportswear with mesh weave; jackets made of silk; metallic detailing and bold exotic prints. Straight from the catwalk, the bomber jacket is the ultimate transitional fashion trend and will keep you warm from early spring through to summer. Team this metallic jacquard bomber with a pair of wide legged trousers for a touch of chicness. Limited Edition metallic jacquard bomber, M&S, 0845 609 0200

CANDY CRUSH

Powder puff pastels are back.

They are extremely flattering against any complexion, easy on the eye and look good as part of any outfit. Pinks, blues and lilacs were the most prominent ladylike shades on the catwalk and mixed with a standout fabric such as leather, this violet leather a-line skirt is a winner for me, or lace and you have your spring outfit wrapped up like a sweet. Structured skirt, River Island, 0844 576 6444

FLOWER POWER

Flowers are back in all their glory. Think meadows for a touch of romance to tropical flowers for fun. I love Ted Baker’s floral print tote for its combination of ultra-feminine hues with black leather detailing, making this more midnight garden than country garden.

Tangled floral print tote, Ted Baker, 01273 202181

BLOCK PARTY

Not everyone can wear stilettos and not everyone enjoys wearing them. If I’m honest, I find some high heels a little dated these days unless it’s a classic black or metallic pointed toe. This season however, shoes are going to be big and I don’t mean in height. The heel this spring has shrunk for a more comfortable walk. Alexander McQueen showed us mid height block heels and we’ve seen perspex heels in nude, clear and pink. So if you’re not a fan of tottering around and preferred the simplicity of the winter brogue, then this trend may just be for you. Limited Edition colour block shoe, M&S, 0845 609 0200

Photography

StephenPerry

Editorial and Commercial: www.stephenperry.com

T: 07770 504089 E: stephen@stephenperry.com

Weddings and Families: www.perryphotography.co.uk

A LEVEL PLAYING FIELD WORDS BY DANIEL WHITE

Andrew Wale and Neil Allard are set to make history as the first same-sex couple to get married in the UK this month and they spoke to Daniel White about the significance of the event

“Living in Brighton you walk around seeing

to be a part of it, I think it’s a really important

“It’s a mental place, I love it!” smiled Neil. “I

young people behaving in the same way that

step,” he explained. “It’s relative to what’s

think it’s fantastic, it’s an amazing building and

straight young people behave, quite relaxed

happening in other places in the world where

I have always thought it was extraordinary. So

and natural and it’s those things that I think

they seem to be running backwards, so we’re

it is really good, we’re really excited about it.”

are most important.”

very aware of how privileged we are.”

Andrew Wale spoke with a reverence

Brighton’s first ever civil ceremony was held

city than many others nationally, Andrew is

unbeknown to many readers. For he and his

in 2005 but, when asked if this event is more

hopeful the historic event will finally destroy

partner, Neil Allard, the expression of love

important for the country, Andrew was in no

the taboo of a same-sex relationships within

and attraction has not always been so easy.

doubt.

the UK.

However, March will see a historic and

He said: “Yes of course it is but it’s about

“When I think back to when I was younger

poignant moment in the country’s history, as

perception rather than the difference. The

and you’re going through those issues you

Andrew and Neil become the country’s first

difference between a civil partnership and

don’t have any sense of a right to anything,”

same-sex couple to get married when they

a marriage is very small but the perception

he explained. “You just think ‘OK well I can’t

tie the knot at 12.01am on the 29th.

is something which I think is very important.

speak, I can’t do anything, I can’t have what I

Civil partnerships were always considered

would like because that is the way the world

lesser than marriage so in a way I think this

is’.

A panel, including members of the Brighton & Hove City Council Register Office, selected the couple from a wide variety of entrants and Andrew explained why it is

law does level the playing field a bit more, which is why we were waiting for it.”

Whilst Brighton is a much more cosmopolitan

“So I hope younger people are allowed to have that part of their lives more fully. It took

important not just nationally but as a symbol

The couple met just outside the Royal

me up to seven years ago to work out how

internationally.

Pavilion Gardens so, fittingly, they were thrilled

to have a relationship that was really, really

when they heard the wedding will take place

valuable but I feel like I’ve got it now.”

“It’s not very significant to us that it’s necessarily the first wedding but I’m very glad

in the Pavilion’s Music Room - another first for the city.

- Weddings -

MARCH 2014

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Exhibitor Feathered Fantasy Photo - Zara Price Photography

Exhibitor - Anna Pumer Photography

Quaint Queer Weird AlternAtive Wedding FAir Doors to the Quaint, Queer Weird Wedding Spectacular open at midday on Saturday 15th March at Brighton’s Corn Exchange.

Celebrating everything alternative, Retro, LGBT and funky Vintage in the wedding world, 60+ extraordinary exhibitors will be displaying their stunning, unusual wedding fashion, accessories, photography, millenary, cakes, jewellery and many more. Guests are encouraged to 'dress to impress'. Throughout the day, there is burlesque dancing and risqué entertainment making the QQW wedding fair completely unique.

Sponsors include The Butch Clothing Company, Two Brides - on-line Lesbian magazine, Brighton’s Dig for Victory and Crown and Glory - alternative Bridal hair accessories.

Exhibitor highlights: Skin Candy Tattoo Studio, world class Body Painter - Victoria Gugenheim, high end doggy fashion from Doggy Doodles, a Celebrant ceremony performed by Gabrielle Stirling, unique accessories from Sanguinem Libidine, clothing from Victorian Gothic, Oh My Honey and Dig for Victory, Corsets by Chrissie NicholsonWilde, See Saw Sea - Brighton’s sexiest hotel, magic and oddities from Leon Simmonds,

Hotel Pelirocco, a live boudoir set from Moving Pictures Boudoir and Vintage Pin Up, a Hipsta Photo Booth from Victoria Lily Vintage, jeweller Belle Argent, burlesque and show reel videographer Mean on the Scene and Humphrey - the VW Party Bus. A full exhibitor list is available on the QQW website.

QQW’s chosen charity is MindOut, a Brighton based mental health service run by and for the LGBT community. As well as receiving 25% of proceeds from their Prize Bonanza draw, a raffle which sees five people winning a share of prizes donated be every exhibitor, QQW will be encouraging people to donate their small change at the door.

Exhibitors who are unable to join QQW at their Spring Spectacular, will be displaying details on a ‘Wish We Were Here’ table.

Guests will be able to meet the entertainment team who include hosts Dawn Gracie and Paul Roberts, burlesque star Ruby Deshabillé and the very talented Pyromaniac crew.

- Weddings|Fair -

Exhibitor Victorian Gothic Photo

On-line Early Bird Tickets cost £3.50 till end Feb then £5.

There is also the chance to win a VIP package for the day.

Visit www.quaintqueerweird.com for tickets & more info.

Absolute Brighton 20% Discount Code QQWLOVE Use during on-line Eventbrite checkout

March 2014

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Something to Smile about Smiles Ship Street Dental Practice is situated in the heart of Brighton, just a pebble’s throw from the beach and the famous Palace Pier! Nestled in the historic Brighton Lanes, surrounded by quirky boutiques, buzzing restaurants and stylish cocktail bars, why not make a day of your visit to the dentist and combine it with some sun, sea and a spot of shopping.

Using the very latest in dental technology, Smiles Dental aims to exceed your dental expectations.

Put your dental fears to rest in our luxurious and tranquil waiting area, where you will be greeted by our warm and friendly team. You can be completely confident in the professionalism of our highly experienced clinical team.

Smiles Dental offers a wide array of dental treatments including Cosmetic Dentistry, Orthodontics (including Invisalign), Oral Hygiene and Gum Health.

For new patients, we are currently offering you the opportunity to have an Exam and Hygiene visit for £75 (usually £100). We also offer free initial orthodontic consultations. To arrange an appointment, you can contact us on 01273 724777, email us at shipstreet@smiles.co.uk or visit our website www.smiles.co.uk Visit and like us on Facebook – Smiles Dental Ship Street

Something to smile about...

New patient special offer now available for bookings

New Patient Offer Exam & Hygiene Visit

£75 (Retail price £100)

Book today on 01273 724 777

www.smiles.co.uk

15 Ship Street, Brighton, BN1 1AD shipstreet@smiles.co.uk

Opening Times Monday to Friday 8am - 8pm Saturday 9am - 3pm

SPRING FRESH Give your beauty cabinet a spring clean and get ready to give your face and body a fresh start this month.

Words: Kate Morton

Give your fingers and toes a botanical boost Dr LeWinn’s Renunail Nourishing Oil, £11. www.drlewinns.co.uk

Go girly with this season’s perfect pink Bobbi Brown Uber Pink Nail Polish collection in Pink Peony, £11. www.bobbibrown.co.uk

Get fruity with the original British multi-use balm Dr.PAWPAW Original Balm, £6.95.

Papillon, Brighton, 01273 720333

Keep skin looking pure, fresh and radiant Clarins Extra-Comfort Anti-Pollution Cleansing Cream, £25. Available from Boots and Debenhams

Look pretty with a dusting of powder Bobbi Brown Uber Pink Illuminating Bronzer in Be Bold, £27. www.bobbibrown.co.uk Protect, hydrate and banish the signs of ageing Kiehl’s Powerful Wrinkle Reducing Cream, £42. Kiehl’s, Brighton, 01273 735468

Your guilt free, no calorie sugar rush Janjira Sugar Milky Body Scrub, £32. www.janjira.co.uk

ThaiThai Massage / Beauty / Well-being Massage / Beauty / Well-being

Thai Massage / Beauty / Well-being

The Theonly onlyplace placefor for pure pureindulgence indulgence A visit to Chutima Therapy promises to be a A visit to Chutima Therapy promises to be a a A visit to Chutima Therapy promises to be Rejuvenating experience.

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Spring Skin Words by Kate Morton

It’s time to give your skin a seasonal spruce up and there’s nothing better than the new cleansing facial at the Treatment Rooms.

When it comes to your skin, springtime is a time for repairing the havoc that winter has played on your face and body. Winter dreariness can cause dryness, loss of moisture and skin tightness not to mention a dull complexion and breakouts. So with winter now behind us, it’s time to make your skin sparkle and get that glow back with a deep cleansing facial and I think I’ve hunted down the perfect one.

14:01

The Treatment Rooms launched their Skin Clean Facial at the beginning of the year.

Created exclusively by the Treatment Rooms’ owner and founder Clare Rogers, Skin Clean literally lives up to its name, it deep cleans your skin for a more radiant complexion, ridding any leftover residue and dead skin cells that may be lurking behind from winter.

One of the stars of this facial is the use of the Clarisonic, an innovative sonic cleansing brush which produces over ‘300 movements per second’ to gently massage away impurities from pores. This innovative cleansing brush was one of our favourite beauty buys last year and no doubt will continue to be so with its long-lasting results. Cleansing ‘six times better than with hands alone’, Clare has cleverly incorporated the sonic cleanse into Skin Clean to ensure a more effective instant cleanse, that often standalone creams just cannot achieve by themselves.

skin after all. This process of manually clearing a clogged pore under a magnifying lamp will feel like your skin is undergoing an instant detox, and it will look clearer and feel revived afterwards.

Clare Rogers says: “The focus of this facial is extraction. So many facials don’t do extraction and everybody wants clearer skin”.

Following the extraction, warming pads are placed over the eyes and a soothing mask, designed to calm, is applied over the skin.Then for the finale, a deep and nurturing massage across the neck and shoulders is performed for the ultimate in relaxation.

Now I have had many facials in my time as a Beauty Editor but if I’m honest, I can be a bit lazy on regular facial upkeep. If I’m going to have a treatment, then I would always opt for a massage but Skin Clean has changed my mind. This facial has transformed my skin – even the powder and concealer (I’m not a fan of foundation) in my makeup bag have been collecting dust since this facial as I went makeup free for days afterwards.

21 New Road Brighton BN1 1UF 01273 818444 www.thetreatmentrooms.com

Targeting even the most stubborn of complexions, Skin Clean commences by removing dead skin cells and makeup, in preparation for the other star of the show, a heated wax mask which is gently painted over skin whilst warm. During this time, the skin is able to absorb the moisturising effects of the mask, relaxing the facial muscles and helping to open the pores ready for extraction. Now many people shudder at the word extraction but it really isn’t so bad, it gives you clearer

- Beauty|review -

March 2014

│29

PAUSE

Don’t put your life on pause waiting for treatment.

Get affordable pay-as-you-go healthcare when you need it.

At Nuffield Health Brighton Hospital you don’t need health insurance to get the treatment you need.

Pay-as-you-go makes private healthcare far more accessible.

You may also be eligible for interest-free credit†, so you can spread the cost without paying more.

Our prices are totally transparent, inclusive of all costs and guaranteed.

That means no hidden surprises.

We promise to meet any comparable price.* Our relationship with you doesn’t end when you walk out of our hospitals – there are no time limits on your aftercare.**

Get in touch. And get on with your life.

01273 987 135 nuffieldhealth.com/brightonpay5 Download our free guide online †Subject to status. Terms and conditions available on request. *Not including private patient units at NHS hospitals. Local area defined as within 15 miles of the Nuffield Health

hospital. We will match against written quotes only. **Where possible, we promise to assist you to receive any follow up advice, treatment or care that is clinically required from your Consultant for as long as you may require it. If a prosthesis is used as part of your treatment this is guaranteed for the manufacturer’s official lifetime of that prosthesis. ”Clinically required” indicates where further intervention and/or monitoring of a patient’s condition is deemed necessary as a direct result of surgical intervention.

NH_SU _AbsoluteBrighton

Do you want to make the smile of your Dreams a reality?

Dr Pieter Grobbelaar explains the features and benefits of the revolutionary Cfast cosmetic tooth alignment treatment, now available at Concordia Dental healthcare

A new smile within 6 months What is Cfast? Cfast is a gentle, minimally invasive treatment for adults that uses sound or thodontic principles to straighten the upper and lower front six teeth – the ‘Social Six’ that make up your visible smile. Using a tooth coloured wire and clear brackets, it gently straightens your teeth to give you that healthy, beautiful smile, all in six months or less!

How does Cfast work? Cfast uses special nickel-titanium wires to straighten your teeth in a controlled and predictable way. The treatment uses lighter forces than traditional or thodontics, so it’s more comfor table as well as much quicker.

How can it be so much faster than conventional braces? Traditional orthodontics focus on the position of your bite, so can take years of treatment wearing metal braces. Cfast focus on just the front teeth that make up your visible smile, so treatment time is greatly reduced.

Will the teeth stay straight after treatment? After completing the Cfast treatment, you will need to wear a retainer to support your teeth in the new position. You can choose from different retainer options ideally with a bonded retainer placed after the Cfast treatment.

What’s the catch? There isn’t one!

Upon consultation, if your case is considered suitable for Cfast, the treatment is completely safe and clinically appropriate. And because it does not claim to address major orthodontic issues and can be done very quickly, it is much cheaper than other alternatives.

What’s the cost? A single arch cost’s just £2250.00, but at Concordia Dental Healthcare we are offering a fantastic introductory offer to straighten both the upper and lower arches for the fully inclusive price of only £4000!

We will also include a complimentary Opalescence Go teeth whitening system (worth £250) upon completion of your Cfast treatment to complete your perfect ‘Hollywood’ smile.

We are proud to be a centre of excellence for a complete range of general, cosmetic and aesthetic dental treatments that generations of our patients have come to rely on. Concordia Dental Healthcare also offers every client a relationship based on transparency, trust and understanding with complete freedom of choice in our treatment options.

Before

After

Cfast braces

We believe your smile is one of your most valuable assets, which is why we are dedictated to helping each of our individual patients maintain and enhance their smiles with personalised, exper t dental care of the highest standard, to suit all budgets and requirements.

Our aim is to ensure your visits are as pleasant and stress-free as possible.

For more information, or to book your consultation, talk to Dr Pieter Grobbelaar on 01273 711507 or visit the practice at 39a Salisbury Road, Hove, East Sussex, BN3 3AA.

- Beauty|Promotion -

Before

After

General Surgery at Nuffield Health Brighton Hospital Providing rapid access to Hernia, Vascular, Endoscopy, Laparoscopic and Colorectal Surgery and many more procedures Self-Pay packages available GP referral not always necessary For more information on General Surgery, call: Nuffield Health Brighton Hospital Warren Rd Brighton BN2 6DX

Don’t just go private, go personal

0393_Brighton_148x210_publication.indd 1

It’s time to talk to Nuffield

01273 761997 nuffieldhealth.com

18/12/2013 12:53

Nuffield Health Brighton Hospital removes time-limits on aftercare for patients, in an unprecedented move for private healthcare.

At Nuffield Health Brighton Hospital, we are proud to launch a unique service to local patients who require common surgical procedures.

For the first time, patients choosing to have their care outside the NHS have no time limits placed on their aftercare following procedures like hip replacements or hernia repair. Our Hospital, part of the Nuffield Health Charity, has launched the service in light of high profile concerns about patient care, both in the independent sector and the NHS. We are simply making our ethos official, that we always put our patients first.

The move is significant as currently providers of private healthcare offer only short term guarantees of up to 28 days to patients following surgical procedures.

What the Nuffield Health promise includes: Our Pricing Promise If you find an alternative private hospital in your local area offering a better price for the same individual treatment, sold with the same service conditions, we’ll lower our price to match* Our prices will always be totally transparent and when you are quoted an inclusive procedure price it will be inclusive of all costs- with no hidden surprises.

Our Treatment Promise We understand that any health care procedure can be stressful. We therefore promise to guide and support you through every stage of your treatment at Nuffield Health. Our Matron led system sits at the heart of this.

Our Follow-Up Promise Our relationship with you doesn’t end when you walk out of one of our hospitals. As a Nuffield Health customer there are no time limits on your aftercare** The Nuffield Health difference We can make these promises because Nuffield Health is a social enterprise.

This means any surplus we make doesn’t go to investors but is re-invested into improving the quality of the healthcare we deliver.

* Not including private patient units at NHS hospitals. Local area defined as within 15 miles of the Nuffield Health hospital. We will match against written quotes only. **Where possible, we promise to assist you to receive any follow up advice, treatment or care that is clinically required from your Consultant for as long as you may require it. If a prosthesis is used as part of your treatment this is guaranteed for the manufacturer’s official lifetime of that prosthesis. “Clinically required” indicates where further intervention and/or monitoring of a patient’s condition is deemed necessary as a direct result of surgical intervention.

- Health -

March 2014

│33

Is sugar making you fat?

Words by ADam Lewis

Sugar is certainly hot news right now, with questions like: ‘Are you eating too much sugar?’ being asked by newspapers, television.

It is even the focus of the government’s ‘Change 4 Life’ campaign. To be honest, the answer is probably YES. We, as a modern population are definitely eating an increasing amount of sugar as we swap properly cooked meals for convenience snacks and grow a significant taste for the sweet stuff! But does sugar deserve to be the new public enemy for people seeking weight-loss?

you eat that day is below your needs. In other words, it’s less important what you cut back on, so long as you do cut back.

To be clear, sugars (glucose, fructose and sucrose) are forms of carbohydrate, in fact the simplest form. Unlike more complex carbohydrates such as starches, foods high in sugar raise the blood sugar quickly after a meal and are called high glycemic index foods. But this doesn’t necessarily mean they are bad.

Often I hear people say, yes but fructose, a natural fruit sugar that is artificially added to many common foods, is the cause of our bulging waistlines. Well, last month a rather nice scientific study was published in the journal Atherosclerosis looking at whether eating more fructose actually caused higher fat levels. Unsurprisingly, and similar to the above results, they found that when people ate the right number of calories overall but replaced other carbohydrates for fructose, there was no change on the amount of fat circulating in the blood after meals. So fructose itself does not increase fat levels.

However, whenever fructose provided the person with an excessive number of calories then fat levels did increase.

Over the last decade a number of studies have revealed that when it comes to weight loss, it doesn’t matter if you eat a high GI diet, a low GI diet or even a high fat diet. All will produce the same amount of weight loss (and improved insulin sensitivity) so long as your total daily calorie intake from everything

So while sugar itself is not the enemy and consuming some sugary foods, like fruit, will also provide you with vital nutrients, if they are what you are overeating on, then yes you should find ways of cutting back on unnecessary sugars to help you lose weight.

Sugary foods tend be digested quickly, so

- Health|Fitness -

look for low GI foods like whole grains rather than processed foods to fill you up for longer. Sweets and confectionary, fizzy drinks, ‘kids cereals’, crisps and cakes, are sugary culprits we can eat less of! But don’t forget to find alternatives to all the other things that might be causing you to overeat too, such as alcohol, high-fat foods, and even excessively large portions sizes.

So this month, why not see what changes you can make to ween yourself off sugar and lower your overall calorie intake? Best of luck.

Got a question? Ask a question about this article or any fitness problem you’d like Adam to cover in a future issue, email adam@ sportfitco.com Brief Bio: Local mobile fitness trainer Adam Lewis holds a degree in sport & exercise science, a masters degree in human & sports nutrition, is a strength & conditioning specialist and has been a certified personal trainer for over 10 years. www.SportFitCo.com

March 2014

│35

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Stephen Grant Walkover success Never underestimate a good walk.

I don’t. Not now. I’ve pretty much taken walking for granted all my life, but every now and again, fate throws subtle reminders of how incredible it is in your path.

Certainly last Summer it was everything, as we tried to coax our one-year-old into that most independent of skills. This helps elevate you from the rest of the animal kingdom into the realm of humans, ostriches, and dancing dogs. And from a baby’s perspective, it’s huge.

So much so that the only prerequisite of a graduate to ‘toddler’ status is actual toddling.

At the time, fellow friends with older children warded us off. “Don’t do it! They’re so much easier to look after when they can’t walk!”.

Of course, they were joking; I’ve yet to see a parenting book amongst the billions out there titled “Don’t Walk! A Guide to Denying Your Child Realistic Mobility”.

And trying to explain to a child how to walk reminds you of the fact that you’ve been doing it so long you don’t actually really know yourself. There’s only a select few people who are truly skilled in the art of explaining out loud how it is achieved, such as clinical physiotherapists, and highly motivated drunks.

There is an argument it’s less critical than it has ever been. In our increasingly officebased lives, a large portion of your 24 hour clock can be walk-free. Commuting, work, socialising; a lot of previously necessary

walking is now out of your hands (feet). And in many ways, that’s fabulous. A close family member has recently had a diagnosis that means he may never walk, and with this in mind, let alternative mobility reign supreme.

The flip side of the coin is not great.

Sedentary lifestyles are doing untold damage to the human race; fitness, strength, obesity, even social integration are all falling by the wayside/pavement. In many cases, it’s just the access to breathing outdoors that we lose out on. Though sometimes this need becomes confused; I recently overheard someone saying, “I’m off to the shops to get some fags. The fresh air will do me good”.

The most recent studies have shown that the most important of personal strengths - mental health - is hugely linked to our need for regular exercise. Think that walking a dog helps your sanity? It’s not the dog that makes you less depressed, it’s the walk.

That said, while walking without a dog may help improve mental wellbeing, walking with a leash, shouting, and throwing a stick at nobody in particular will probably give the impression of the opposite.

Someone turned up at your house angry?

They probably drove. I guarantee you; a walk can only help allay sadness. If you wanted to be the best therapist or life coach in town, put your clinic at the top of a hill a mile from the nearest car park, and watch those positive results flood in.

“Someone turned up at your house angry?

They probably drove.”

- Culture|Columnist -

And walking is easy, no? Even by definition; the word ‘cakewalk’ means ‘straightforward’.

It was a kind of dance you just had to walk to (not to be mistaken for a cake & walk - the effects of these two cancel each other out).

Yeah, it’s easy. Which is why people go (miles) out of their way to make it difficult.

This year, I’m doing the three peaks challenge in aid of Scope. That’s 24 hours in total to walk up, and down, and travel between, each of Britain’s 3 highest peaks. I’ve got a six page letter telling me what I need to prepare, buy and do. For a walk. I’ve got Goretex everything. I’ve got climbing poles (is this cheating?). I’ve spent hours on internet forums researching ‘really good boots’. Quite disappointed so far. For me, ‘really good boots’ would have wheels. And an engine.

I’m nervous. Every now and again people die going for a walk. I have a colleague in comedy who walked across Greenland last year who sent a fundraising email beforehand insinuating how tough it was - and how he might die.

He did. He raised a fortune, but despite my altruism, I’m just not prepared to go that far, regardless of how good a cause it is.

Walking solves obesity, improves fitness, mobilises society, and clears your head. It’s the magic bullet. Those people who think I’m exaggerating can take a hike.

Zoe Lyons I do, we do, you do too

M

arch the 29th marks an important date in British history. From that day onwards same sex couples will be allowed to legally marry in England and Wales. Campaigners fought long and hard to make this a reality and I am both extremely lucky and somewhat proud to live in a country where the rights of gay people, like myself, are acknowledged and upheld.

then I am afraid I find it very difficult not to rejoice in the absurdity of it. Remarks like his are the debating equivalent of standing on a table and letting rip a massive bilious bum burp during an etiquette class. Silvester is of course an extreme case and indeed it would actually make more sense to me if the floods were a demonstration of God’s dislike of UKIP!

Of course there were those that were vehemently against the idea and spouted all sor ts of fire and brimstone rhetoric about how allowing gays to marry would lead to the crumbling of society and ultimately the end of the world as we know it. As a comedian, I have to be honest, I delight in the constant stream of material these people provide me with.

Others have tried to argue that allowing gay marriage would devalue the concept of marriage. I simply never understand this idea at all. If two homosexuals committed to each other, who you have never even met, could somehow devalue your marriage, then your marriage was on pretty shaky ground in the first place. Besides, marriage is already devalued all the time.

There are those that marry for money, out of spite or even boredom and there are plenty of celebrities out there who treat marriage as a media grabbing career leg up. Tie the knot in May and divorce a few months later after the pictures have come out in Hello Magazine before moving on to the next social elevator yet we never hear calls for these vacuous “lime light” hunters to be barred from marrying do we?

There is something almost medieval about some of the religious arguments against same sex marriage that fascinates me. I am absolutely not knocking religion. I am an atheist myself but I am able to see and understand the impor tance that faith has for some people and the potential for good that can come out of such beliefs.

But when we are presented with the likes of David Silvester, the UKIP councillor who claimed floods earlier this year in Britain were the result of God’s anger with Cameron for legalising same sex marriages

So what can we expect at the end of the month when the new law comes into force on the 29th March? Well, most

It would actually make more sense to me “ if the floods were a demonstration of God’s dislike of UKIP!”

- Culture|Columnist -

people won’t even notice the passing of the date. The ear th will continue to spin on its axis, the birds will continue to chirp in the trees. There will, no doubt, be periods of heavy rain and droughts again in the future but it will have absolutely nothing to do with two people who love each other being allowed equal rights.

The world shall carry on as it always has except that a few more people will have the joy of saying “ I do”. Many happy returns to all those who intend to wed this year. Love is a marvellous thing.

Zoe hosts Bent Double comedy night the first Sunday of every month at Brighton Komedia.Follow Zoe on Twitter @zoelyons

ABSOLUTELY ANDRE Peter Andre is surely one of the most recognisable people in modern British celebrity culture, and for those of us who remember his bare-chested debut on number one hit Mysterious Girl, his is a face that shows very few of the scars from two decades in the spotlight. Up close and personal, the Brighton-based Aussie is as amiable as he is immaculately styled, as Camilla Davies found out.

When I meet Peter Andre in a swanky restaurant in the capital and reveal my allegiances for the south coast, the singer, presenter, model and entrepreneur is quick to pledge his love for Brighton: “It’s like ‘London by the Sea’, isn’t it? I love it down there – we’re lucky!”

An accomplished media star, Andre shot to fame in 1996 after his debut chart single sold more than two million copies. After a period away from the flashbulbs, the Australian performer was reawakened in the UK’s public consciousness through his stint in the jungle in 2004 on I’m a Celebrity....Get Me Out of Here! and his subsequent three-year marriage to glamour model Jordan.

“The reality TV route has been a way back in for a lot of people, and while that wasn’t really my intention from the outset, it was a lot of fun and sparked the next chapter in my life, so obviously I’m very grateful for it.”

Indeed, the opening of his second New York Coffee Club, in Brighton, was a sizeable step, and follows on from the brand’s flagship base

March 2014

“Oh, the coffee shop is great! We’ve made it New York style in the sense that we’ve got hot dogs, we’ve got pizzas, but also very, very, very good coffee.”

“I’m not a dog like

the cafe flat white, and has built an impressive following since opening in 2012. Even better, the coffee shop picked up an Employability and Enterprise Champion 2013 Award at the Young Epilepsy Champions gongs. The cafe employed young epilepsy sufferer Sam Ashby on a work placement, and the support shown

by NYCC and the Andre brothers was deemed by the charity to be so accommodating that Sam developed the skills and confidence necessary to progress into paid employment. But this is not the only element of the café that makes the Aussie proud.

Mr Peabody, and I’m not a genius either, come to think of it, but apart from that, all the bad jokes... that’s me through and through.

The 40-year-old don has since written and performed new material, also picking up three ‘Dad of the Year’ awards. And unleashing entrepreneurial skills in the form of children’s books, perfume and, most importantly to Brighton, coffee, means this is someone who has successfully swerved the ‘cult of celebrity’ tag by producing for himself a career that is evolving and relevant.

40│

in East Grinstead. It’s an enterprise Peter started in partnership with his three brothers, and business is booming.

“We’ve included a play area in New York Coffee Club. When I used to go to Starbucks with the three kids - Junior, Harvey and Princess - they’d be so excited because they were going to get a treat. But after 10 minutes they’d want to leave, yet I’d still be savouring my coffee, and perhaps wanted to go on the internet or read the newspaper. I knew that my own coffee shop needed to have that element where parents could sit and actually relax in the knowledge that their kids were occupied and happy.”

”

But with a longstanding coffee culture in Brighton, what makes New York Coffee Club stand out from the multitudes of independents that already grace our streets?

“Because our coffee is, by far, the best!

Nobody can touch our coffee,” Pete quips.

“Like anything, it’s about how much you put into your key ingredients. Surroundings are all very nice, but that soon becomes just for show – it’s really about your core product and how dedicated you are to making it as good as possible. People these days really do notice the difference.”

Andre prides himself on the constitution of - Interview -

Unfortunately, Peter may not have the opportunity to enjoy too much of his vision over the next few months. The TV star has a new addition to his brood with the arrival of baby Amelia, his daughter with fiancée Emily MacDonagh. The 24-year-old gave birth in January, weeks after Andre proposed in the nursery of the couple’s home. The pair are currently preparing where and when to set the nuptials.

- Interview -

March 2014

│41

“It has been

a rollercoaster year so far, and I feel like I’m living on pure adrenaline… and coffee!

”

With a new addition to the brood, the star admits he’s feeling the effects. “It has been a rollercoaster year so far, and I feel like I’m living on pure adrenaline… and coffee!”

Despite his modesty, it looks like a business plan built on caffeine is providing Peter with more than just the ability to stay awake. Aside from the cafe chain, he recently returned to the recording studio, with his new song, Kid, featuring in the animated film Mr Peabody and Sherman, a DreamWorks production tipped to be a massive hit this spring. The track has fed the singer’s appetite for music once more.

“It really was great fun going into the studio again. Not only that, but I enjoyed doing a song where we could add an element of rock and roll. That was so cool for me because I do love that genre.”

The film follows the relationship between a super-intellectual canine who adopts a bespectacled human child and raises him.

Father Mr Peabody and son Sherman use their time travel contraption, the WABAC machine, (a play on phrase ‘way back’) to revisit critical moments in history as both an academic lesson and a bonding experience.

But when Sherman’s ‘frenemy’ Penny comes to stay, mayhem ensues and the three must work to fix the space-time continuum.

And of course, coming at the time of the arrival of his daughter, Kid now holds further special resonance for Peter.

“To be doing a kids’ film at the time of Amelia arriving was really special – it felt so right. But more than that, I think the movie really mirrors mine and Junior’s relationship. The father-son relationship of the characters Mr Peabody and Sherman is me and Junior down to a T. Obviously I’m not a dog like Mr Peabody, and I’m not a genius either, come to think of it, but 42│

March 2014

apart from that, all the bad jokes... that’s me through and through,” he laughs. “The bond the two have, the frustration that Sherman doesn’t really listen to his Dad; it’s every parent’s situation. But that bond that they have, as best friends: that’s us.”

Peter’s older children have appeared in a number of his reality TV shows, but with the singer now infiltrating the big screen, will they follow him into the limelight? The star stops to mull it over. “I think Junior could, but somehow I feel Princess would want to do something just completely different.”

When it comes to talking about his kids, Andre grows very animated. In a recent interview the star joked about his children’s’ concept of fame.

“Sometimes Princess will go: ‘Why does everyone scream or ask for photos?’ or ‘Why are they so nice?’ and I say ‘Well Bista, because we’re nice to them.’ Because I don’t think it’s - Interview -

about them thinking you have to be on TV or that you have to be doing something for people to react to you. It’s more important that they think people react to you because you react to them. I’ve never even heard them use the word ‘famous’, which is so nice because they’ve just accepted that it’s... it’s just us... that we’re friends with everybody.”

Andre prides himself on being a hands-on Dad and on bringing this same practical approach to his business ventures. He’s adamant that his kids take priority and is perhaps saddened that his own parents haven’t been able to meet the new addition yet, settling instead for Skype conversations before they make the journey from Australia.

And despite being a distance away from his childhood home, Andre is thankful to have put down roots in Brighton, describing the area as “irresistible”. He’s previously expressed how the city helped him through his first year alone following what was an acrimonious split

from Jordan. Now happily settled once more, he has only good things to say about the area.

“I lived in Withdean which, of course, is where Brighton & Hove Albion used to play. It was great seeing sport going on all around there.

You’d hear the noise, the cheers coming from the stadium; it was just great. It felt like a stereo!”

Such a fan is Mr Andre of Withdean that our spies have even spotted him filling his trolley at the local ASDA. Pete laughs. “Well, it’s all about ASDA! They haven’t seen me hanging about the car park, have they?!”

With the stadium premises relocated to the Falmer complex, it looks like the university students have inherited Peter’s sport stereo system. What else stands out for Peter?

“The thing about Brighton is there is so much to see – so many areas that have their own unique personality and feeling... the modern, the arty, the rugged, the polished. I love it.

And the Marina is really special; I’ve run from Brighton Pier to there and back - that’s three miles each way.”

These days, however, his fitness regime comes second to conducting night-time bottle feeds.

Pete laughs. “There’s really not as much time to work out at the moment, and when I go to the gym I’m just so tired. But I think the adrenaline keeps me thin!”This isn’t the fitness advice you’d usually expect from a celebrity whose abs, in years gone by, have featured on many a schoolgirl’s bedroom wall!

So why ever leave Brighton, you say? Having taken the reins of ITV’s show 60 Minute Makeover, in which members of the public have their homes transformed in just an hour, Andre needed a more central base and has been spending more time in London.

With a career spanning music, the catwalk, catering and more, it’s hard to guess what lies next for Peter.

“Hair!” he laughs. “Going forward, I think a lot will be about hair products - shampoos, conditioners, the works. We’re launching a new summer fragrance with my perfume, too.

And I’m talking to ITV about a new project, so I guess I might be in need of a bit more of that fantastic coffee!”

Peter Andre’s new song Kid is the UK’s official track for the new DreamWorks Animation Mr Peabody and Sherman, in cinemas now.

- Interview -

March 2014

│43

A3.indd 1

12/11/2013 13:04

guestlist What?

NSPCC Fund raising award Where?

1

Donatello Restaurant

2

Why? To support victims of abuse and help prevent cruelty to children Who? 1. Paul Feist (Plus Accounting), Liz Barnes (NSPCC), Vicky King (Plus Accounting) 2. Keith Jackman (Lookers Mercedes Benz), Liz Barnes (NSPCC)

3

4

3. Anita Morris (Southern Water), Liz Barnes (NSPCC), Kevin Buck MBE (Southern Water) 4. Ros Bird (NSPCC), Keith Jackman (Lookers Mercedes Benz), Gemma King (Be Creative) 5. Tracey Bravo (NSPCC), Amy Stevens (Higgidy), Jason Woodford (Sitevisibility), Georgina Rose (Education Travel Group /NSPCC), Liz Barnes (Envoca/NSPCC), Jeremy Spiller (White Hat Media), Kevin Buck MBE (Southern Water)

5

6. Rob Head (NatWest), Matt Daley (Site Visibility), Helen Ripley and Emma Pumfrey-Selman (both DMH Stallard)

6

7. Natasha Decote-Green (Ocklynge School) , Aaron Timms (Leading Edge Design) 8. Vicky King (Plus Accounting), Ros Bird (NSPCC) 9. Alice Clarke, Joanne Turnball (both Total Orthodontics) 10. Michaela Ward (STG Travel Group ), Liz Barnes (NSPCC), Josie Brown (STG Travel Group) 7

10

8

9

11. James Bell (Michael Bell Ltd), Paul Feist ( Plus Accounting), Vicky King (Plus Accounting), Miranda Goodenough (Michael Bell Ltd)

If you would like to see your event on these pages email us on guestlist@absolutemagazine.co.uk

11

Photos: www.snapitnow.co.uk

- Guest|List -

March 2014

│45

Rise team and End of organisers

StarS Join ForceS to raise money for Sussex-based domestic abuse charity

Some of the biggest names in the world of journalism, literature, film and TV have come together for one night only to raise money for a domestic abuse charity working in Brighton & Hove and throughout West Sussex.

46│

MARCH 2014

- CHARITY -

photo credit: Julia Claxton

Julie Burchill

Known as ‘End Of ’, it is the brainchild of

We asked Julie Burchill where the idea came

“At first we were just going to make it a small

writer and journalist Julie Burchill, who might

from? Says Julie: “When my career went down

event at Latest Music Bar and then I thought,

seem an unlikely target for domestic abuse

the swanee I began to spend a lot of time on

let’s ask Caitlin Moran and she said she could

but, like many women, has been there and

Facebook and whenever I did a post about

EASILY fill a bigger venue. Then another kind

back, recovered and is now rather cross.

domestic violence I got lots of response,

friend gave us the money to hire the Town

many of them from Brighton. The temptation

Hall for the night and the whole thing took off.’

Those who have already promised their services include Caitlin Moran, Linda Lewis, Jackie Clune, Julie Graham, Suzanne Moore, Dominique Olliver, Vanquish, Dora Dale and Tamzin Outhwaite. The final running order and list of performers will be revealed closer to the date.

Absolute Brighton caught up with some of those involved to find out more about the event.

is always just to sit around and talk about it but I’ve got no interest in just picking at scabs. I wanted to get on and do something.

I wanted to make a difference and have fun at the same time. I had a vision of a girl gang with a real great cause.

Founded in 1994, RISE stands for Refuge, Information, Support and Education. RISE is a domestic abuse charity working in Brighton and Hove and throughout West Sussex helping women, children, young people and the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender

“I then saw that Rise were having their money

(LGBT) community. The charity works

cut this year and thought they would be an

with statutory, voluntary and community

ideal group to do this for.

organisations to deliver specialist services to survivors.

- CHARITY -

MARCH 2014

│47

Naomi Bos, Gail Gray, Julie Burchill, Linsay McCullough

Gail Gray is the Chief Executive Officer of

had with Julie Burchill. After hearing about

disco and turned the music off and that was

RISE. She said: “We are very excited and

too many friends who had all recently

the end of that.

delighted to be chosen. RISE, like many other

experienced some sort of domestic abuse

voluntary sector organisations, faces uncertain

situation she came up with the idea putting

times. The money raised at this event will

on a charity event that would highlight an

help secure RISE services in Brighton & Hove

increasing problem and at the same time

and benefit the over 1,200 people we help

raise money for a great cause.

every year.

“Rise is such a great organisation. I’m proud to be associated with them.”

Will Julie be performing herself?

“I am under strict instructions to restrain

“I needed little persuasion to join our

myself and have only two whiskies

“Our services include refuge accommodation,

wonderful band of women in putting on what

beforehand but if I do get drunk I might just

resettlement, crisis appointments, helpline,

we hope will be a night to remember. It’s

jump on stage and sing ‘Jump Around’ with

counselling, housing, legal and financial advice,

been a privilege.”

Dora Dale.

Readers may not immediately associate Julie

“Come along and enjoy yourself and I

B with voluntary works.

guarantee you’ll have the best night of your

solicitors appointments, support groups, play therapy, 1-to-1 support and training and preventative education.

“We want to help make sure that help is there for years to come.”

“I’ve never been involved in anything like this before as I’ve always been too selfish and focussed on fun,” but in fact Julie is no

Another one of the founders of the event is

stranger to voluntary work having worked in

local actress Julie Graham. Julie has worked

a Jewish care home, a home for the blind and

extensively in theatre, film and television for

a homeless centre.

over 25 years including the RSC, The National and in the West End sand was most recently seen in The Bletchley Circle.

“I’ve also worked with young people with Downs Syndrome and originally we just

lives.”

The event takes place at Hove Town Hall on Tuesday 29 April.

Tickets are now on sale and cost £20 each (inc VAT) and will be sold on a first come first served basis with the best tickets on tables at the front.

had the radio on and we used to dance

Head online to:

Julie told us: “My involvement with End Of

around making moasics but then the new

www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/end-of-fundraiser-

came about because of a conversation I

management came in and said it wasn’t a

and-disco-tickets-10613759039

- CHARITY -

MARCH 2014

│49

THE ABSOLUTE

Lewes Guide

ThroughouT hisTory Lewes has aLways had an enviabLe repuTaTion and now They’ve added anoTher reason To visiT The quainT counTy Town Outside the Lewes Library stands a statue of renowned revolutionary thinker Thomas Paine.

The author, lawyer and scholar wrote a number of influential pamphlets, including Common Sense, which not only delineated the importance of America’s colonial independence from Britain but also sparked the vote for Thomas Jefferson’s Declaration of Independence.

Nicknamed The Father of the American Revolution, Paine first ignited an interest in political writing while working as an excise officer in Lewes, a job that led him to write a 21-page pamphlet demanding better pay and conditions for his fellow workers.

While his quotes went on to be used in Barak Obama’s inauguration speech in 2009, there are many other ways that Lewes has made its mark.

A landmark for over 200 years, Harveys brewery produces the ale that is recognisable the world over, scooping endless awards at the International Beer Challenge year-on-year.

The business, which still remains in the Harvey family after eight generations, is the oldest independent brewery in Sussex and has become a Lewes landmark.

Sitting in the notoriously beautiful South Downs, Lewes is notoriously diverse and the town prides itself on its independent spirit, celebrating that independence at the annual bonfire and fireworks display, which is so impressive it has led to the town being dubbed the “bonfire capital of the world.”

An English ritual in all its pseudo pagan glory, Lewes bonfire night is steeped in historical significance, however, today it offers anyone and everyone the opportunity to get involved in the torch bearing anarchy.

In recent years, though, Lewes has also developed another reason to stop off and stroll along the cobbled streets; one of the greatest selections of salons this side of London.

Whether it is a designer haircut, a full body pampering or the very best in skin treatments, Lewes can, once again, make the prideful boast that it has the answers.

We have compiled the very best in hair and beauty clinics throughout Lewes in this month’s publication so that there is no excuse not to visit the historic county.

LEWES’

HAIRDRESSING HUB The Hair Parlour in Lewes has built a great reputation in a short time and Daniel White finds out what it so appealing.

When you step into The Hair Parlour it is clear that you are not dealing with a Cowboy Hairdresser or any recently graduated parttimers - The Hair Parlour exudes class.

Founded and run by former West End dancer Darren Harker,The Hair Parlour in Lewes has its walls filled with French antique mirrors, while the shop’s interior has a rustic chic feel.

Darren opened his parlour in July last year and has already built such a following that he now has customers travelling from Brighton, London and Warwickshire to ensure they receive a top class cut from the man himself.

“I’ve picked up on lots of people who felt like there was nowhere that they wanted to go in Lewes, so I knew that business would be good for me opening here. Lewes is full of creative,

artistic people as well as a lot of business people and there’s always people popping in and out of the shop so it’s a right little hub down here, it’s a lot of fun,” he explained.

Darren, 42, has been in the industry for over two decades, cutting hair for fashionistas such as Kate Moss, Elizabeth Hurley and Elle Macpherson, yet, after so long he has never grown tired of his profession.

He said: “I started working in a friend’s shop when I was about 15 as a Saturday boy.

I found hairdressing really easy, I got it very quickly. So I’ve been working in the industry for about 25 years now and I’ve found myself lucky that I found something that I could always work in that I love.”

Despite a stellar career in hairdressing, it is

not the creative side of it Darren enjoys most, rather, the visitors he receives from day-to-day.

“The highlight of my shop is the people,” he smiled. “I think I enjoy doing what I do more than just hairdressing. I love my hairdressing but I love being around people, that’s one of my favourite things, so this is a perfect situation for me. I’m a lucky person to be able to come in and spend time with nice people and be creative.”

40 Cliffe High Street Lewes East Sussex BN7 2AN 01273 911 060

20% OFF YOUR FIRST VISIT TO THE HAIR PARLOUR WHEN YOU MENTION ABSOLUTE MAGAZINE

REVOLUTIONISING SKIN CARE Langtons Hair and Beauty salon has introduced the new revolutionary Skintech treatments, edging them ahead of the competition.

Langtons Hair and Beauty has raised the bar for salons across the country The luxury hair and beauty salon in Lewes has become the first clinic in Sussex to install the state-of-the-art 3D Skintech Machine.

The technology offers the latest treatments for anti-ageing, pigmentation, acne and general skin rejuvenation, using a combination of four different technologies to tackle almost all skin concerns.

Diamond Dermabrasion, Radio Frequency, Electro-Mesotherapy and LED Light Therapy provide a range of different skin care treatments and the new product excites Nicola Morra, owner of Langtons Hair and Beauty.

“We are thrilled to be able to be one of the first places in the UK to be able to offer 3D-Skintech treatments,” she explained. “I have seen the results they give and they are really impressive.

“We have had a fantastic first year in Lewes and we hope the introduction of this technology to our salon will cement our reputation as one of the best new hair and beauty salons in Sussex.”

Exclusive Absolute Offer 50% off your first 3D Skintech Facial.

Valid through March, terms and conditions apply.

12 Fisher St, Lewes, East Sussex BN7 2DG

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March 2014

-lewes|beauty -

Take a look at the selection of Skintech Facials available at Langtons.

The Lift and Pump Facial Uses the latest in tri-polar radiofrequency energy to penetrate deeper into the skin to affect the deeper dermis and subcutaneous layers, to help tighten sagging or loose skin, boost collagen, and give you a smoother, younger look and feel to your skin.

Length: 60 minutes Price: £120 or a course of 6 for £500 The MesoGlow Facial Uses electrical pulses to deliver active serums into the mesoderm – the middle layer of skin. Your facial starts with a customised exfoliation of either diamond dermabrasion or glyco-peel prior to infusion leaving skin with a refreshed rejuvenated glow.

Length: 50 minutes Price: £95 or a course of 6 for £470 3D Skintech Facial Ultimate in Skin Rejuvenation Our signature bespoke facial includes elements of both our Lift and Plump Facial and Mesoglow Facial, plus a dose of LED light therapy and either a luxury Collagen or Hyaluronic Mask to leave skin immediately lifted, luminious and rejuvenated.

Length: 75 minutes Price: £150 or a course of 6 for £650 *A course of 6 facials is highly recommended for optimum results and also offers fantastic value for money. If you are looking at ways to improve your skin, then book in for a free, no obligation consultation to see what Langtons can do for you. Call 01273 477678.

THE AVANT GARDE WAY We opened in 2000 in the heart of the historic county town of Lewes and have earned an enviable reputation for delivering creative hairdressing and sensational service. Director, Umberto, heads our team of hand-picked talent, many of whom started in the salon’s own Academy. Whether you want a sleek, precise, signature cut or some sassy, shimmering colour, you know you’re in the hands of exper ts at Avant Garde. We listen to you. Then give you a hair style to suit your hair, face shape and lifestyle. Continual training is the foundation of the Avant Garde philosophy. We are committed to constantly

improving our service and creative skills. Committed to giving you the very best. You are what matters most to us and our care doesn’t stop when you leave the salon. We use and recommend Paul Mitchell luxury hair care take home tools to help you maintain that salon-look at home 365 days a year. www.avantgardelewes.co.uk salon@avantgardelewes.co.uk 01273 479 945

We’ll make you, “Feel fabulous. Look fabulous” £10 off your serv ice bill if yo u quote ‘Absolu te Avan t Garde’

- Lewes|beauty -

March 2014

│53

THE BEAUTY SOLUTION The very latest technology in skin care treatment is now available in the heart of Lewes.

The Beauty Rooms has recently installed the Lynton IPL skincare technology, allowing the most advanced forms of skin treatments to be performed in the central salon.

Established in October 2010 by owner and skincare expert Victoria Gaved, The Beauty Rooms has become one of Lewes’s premier salons offering an amazing range of treatments suiting every need for men and women.

However, it is their Lynton Luminette Advance system that has really changed the face of beauty treatments.

The machine, which includes a medical grade laser used throughout UK hospitals, has a proven track record providing comprehensive clinical facility for hair removal, vascular treatments, pigmentation, acne and skin rejuvenation.

Acne Treatment Don’t let acne spoil your life. The Beauty Rooms offer a range of treatments to leave you with a clear, blemish free complexion. An effective Acne Combination therapy may include one or all of the following clinically proven treatments: Microdermabrasion gently exfoliates the skin, clearing any debris, unclogging the pores and smoothing away areas of acne scarring. DermaQuest’s Acne Clear Resurfacer will cut through oil and dirt on the skins surface, minimising the outbreak of active acne. Pours and blackheads will be reduced as this powerful treatment gets to work. Redness and inflamed acne will appear smoother and less irritated. Finally, intense pulse light treatment uses a broadband light to kill the bacteria responsible for acne and also tricks the skin to stimulate its own wound healing mechanism which promotes rapid skin healing.

Skin Tightening Skin Rejuvenation - Improve Skin Tone and texture Facial rejuvenation is a dynamic non-invasive procedure using intense pulsed light [IPL] to rejuvenate the skin. The perfect solution for all the visible signs of sun damage and ageing such as brown spots (pigmentation), redness (thread veins) and uneven skin texture (collagen). IPL is a broad band therapeutic light energy that stimulates the fibroblast cells within the skin to produce collagen and elastin. The skin becomes firmer, more radiant and enlarged pores reduce.

Add in a course of microdermabrasion, DermaQuest Peels or Caci Non-Surgical Face Lift for the ultimate age-defying skin rejuvenating program.

Absolute Magazine readers will receive an exclusive 20% discount on all beauty treatments and 20% off all Lynton IPL treatment courses – valid until 30th April 2014.

The highly trained and experienced Beauty Therapists will always make you feel welcomed and at ease. Victoria, an expert in skin care, started up the clinic four years ago with the intention of providing health and beauty treatments all in one salon.

“I’ve worked in loads of clinics, salons and spas over the last 12 years and I’d gotten as far as I could,” she explained.

“I wanted to start up my own clinic so I could do the treatments that I wanted to do and, basically, our aim is to have all treatments under one roof and we’re pretty much there.”

Pigment Removal Age spots, sun spots and other pigmented marks are common skin complaints often a cause of too much time spent in the sun or on the sunbed. We have a fast and simple solution for Pigment Removal.

Two to three IPL skin treatments are usually enough to clear the complexion and leave you with an even skin tone.

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March 2014

Hair Removal The Lynton Luminette will provide a permanent or long term solution to unwanted hair. Light is selectively absorbed by melanin, the pigment in the hair follicles.

The light energy heats the pigment and effectively destroys the hair follicles without damaging the surrounding cells.Treatments are conducted every 4-8 weeks until a satisfactory result is seen.The required number of treatments varies but typically 6 or more can be needed for optimum results.

Red Vein Removal Facial flushing (Rosacea), red veins and red spots are common skin problems. Causes range from too much sun and other lifestyle factors and hormonal changes or it might just be down to your genes. We have a fast and simple solution for Red Vein Removal. Two to three IPL skin treatments are usually enough to leave you with a smooth, clear bright complexion.

To find out more about the Lynton Luminette IPL treatments or to book an appointment visit The Beauty Rooms website at thebeautyroomslewes.com or call 01273 470097.

19 Railway Lane, Lewes, Sussex BN7 2AQ info@thebeautyroomslewes.co.uk The salon is opposite Friars Walk Car Park - £1.70 per 2 hours, free after 5pm.

- Lewes|Beauty -

Out Now 188C

1817C

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The independent business magazine for Sussex Issue 1 February / March 2014

MAGAZINE

202C

How

209C

Business Round Table

T

The Big Debate

PETER JAMES the Best-sellinG author turns food critic

Gatwick Growth Why our airport must expand

James Caan

Exclusive interview with the 2013 Chairman of the Year

Plus: NatWest Funding Guide Mergers and Acquisitions Personal Finance Guide Legal and Accounts Feature Commercial Property Business Travel Editorial Opinion Conference & Banqueting Expert Columns Networking Guide Business Motoring Business leasing Local & National News

The business publication the region has been waiting for.

Email Ian.trevett@absolutemagazine.co.uk

for a media pack.

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THE DINING ROOM Review by Peter James

Lunch. It’s an emotive word. Lunch with relatives. Lunch with friends. Business lunch.

Sandwich lunch. Skipping lunch. Leaf through the pages of that venerable tome Who’s Who, and you’ll encounter quite a few times, under the listings of various eminent people’s hobbies, the word lunch. There can’t be many words in the English language with more meanings. Out to lunch. Eating someone else’s lunch. Liquid lunch. Sunday lunch. Literary lunch. Picnic lunch. And in motor racing parlance, lunching a gearbox or a clutch.

In today’s time-poor business world, long, boozy lunches are rare, although fortunately not totally extinct – the publishing world still flies their flag, but only on occasions. Back in the 1980s, as a young author trying to get known, my publicists would set me up with endless lunches with Fleet Street journalists.

And never was a truer depiction of that mythical character in Private Eye, Lunchtime O’Booze that on one particular occasion.

Lunch with a journalist back in the 1980s meant that you could forget the rest of the day – and sometimes the following day too.

I remember one such, with the then literary editor of one daily tabloid, in the legendary Fleet Street hostellery, El Vino. We met there for our supposed interview at midday, and consumed three gin and tonics in the following hour whilst talking about everything 56│

March 2014

but literature and my book, in particular.

The rotund editor then proposed lunch. It began with one bottle of claret and was followed by five more during the course of the afternoon. Around 6pm we moved onto Kümmel, a sickly sweet Dutch digestif, much favoured by elderly men in golf clubs, that is flavoured with caraway and kumin. I don’t remember how many we drank of these. I don’t remember what we ate. All I can really remember is that we got on famously, but that by 8pm he had still not yet pulled out his shorthand pad to begin the interview. ‘Sorry, old boy,’ he slurred. ‘We seem to have run out of time. I’ll bell you, fix up another time soon for the interview, eh?’ But he never did bell me, to my liver’s eternal relief.

I can also remember the last time I was offered alcohol at lunch in Los Angeles. It was 1991 and my host was, unsurprisingly, an English writer! We were in Musso and Frank, an old Hollywood establishment, where the average age of waiters, back then, was about 80. We had martinis served in a glass pitcher, which means about three full glasses. We fell out of the place at dusk. These days if you get taken to lunch in LA the first and only question regarding drink you will be asked is, Still or sparkling?

- Food & Drink|review -

The one lunch tradition that has survived and is really prospering today is the Sunday lunch.

There are few greater pleasures, especially on a wintry Sunday, than to sit around a table with family or good friends, a nice glass of something and the prospect of a scrummy meal. I’ve had a particularly fine one just recently. We went to celebrity chef Tony Tobin’s modestly titled Dining Room, a pleasant Sunday whizz up the M23 to Reigate. The former star of Ready Steady Cook, trained by Nico Ladenis, Tobin began here as the head chef, before eventually buying the place.

It is a wonderful space, on the first floor of a busy high street, a total oasis of calm, and understated sumptuous elegance. Six of us ordering enabled me to sample a great variety of the menu. I started with a sensational Smoked Salmon and Quail “Scotch Egg” and then had roasted filet of pork with black pudding, and the most perfectly judged crackling I’ve eaten in a long while. Other starters that were equally brilliant were a crispy fried courgette flower, and seared sea scallops (for which he is rightly famous). One main that was particularly inventive was Parma Ham Roasted Tuna, and the filet of beef was, according to one companion, superb. Dangerously good puddings included an Apple and Frangipan tart, and an iced chocolate soufflé.

Vegetarians are supremely well catered for here, with a separate £28.50 twocourse menu. As you’d expect from Tobin’s television provenance, presentation of all dishes is food artistry at its very best – sheer elegance with no fussiness. Mondays to Fridays there is a set two-course lunch for a really bargain price of £16.95 or three for £24.95, and three-course dinner for £24.95.

The wine list is very, very good and astonishingly reasonably priced, with a fine range of Champagnes at very fair mark-ups, and a lot to choose from a wonderful range of quality whites, including a stunning Italian Gavi, at £23.00 and a gloriously rich Premier Cru Rully at £49. As with the whites, there is a quality entry level red at £17.50 – a Chilean Merlot, rising to a relatively bargain-

priced Gevrey Chambertin, one of my favourite wines, at £63.00 (I’ve seen this same wine on some London restaurant lists at over double this) and if you are in a really expansive mood, there are some very high end reds, including a 96 Latour and a 2001 Chateau Talbot.

The service was a delight. Attentive, friendly and utterly professional. Tobin knows how to deliver at all levels. I was very impressed.

International best-selling author, Peter James, is our independent restaurant reviewer. The reviews are 100% impartial and free from advertising. In fact, he doesn’t even tell us which restaurants he is going to review!

“These days if you get taken to lunch in LA the first and only question regarding drink you will be asked is, Still or sparkling?

”

tonytobinrestaurants.co.uk

- Food & Drink|review -

March 2014

│57

Foraging for Quality Q & A with the team at The Foragers Pub Patrick, Executive Chef Danny, Head Chef

How did you get into cooking?

Patrick: I’ve always cooked, even as a kid. I was always on the bench next to mum with my hands in the food. There was nothing else I wanted to do.

Danny: My Nan inspired me with her baking in my early years.

What’s your philosophy when it comes to food?

Patrick: Using fresh clean flavours, from locally sourced, seasonal produce.

Danny: I can only be as good as my suppliers are.

Where did you train and what was the most memorable lesson they taught you?

Patrick: I trained in Sydney for four years as a apprentice. The most important lesson I was taught was don’t always go by the book, think outside the box Danny: I’ve never had any formal training.

I’ve gained my experience and training at the 58│

March 2014

various places I’ve worked at. Most important lesson – Always pay attention to detail What ingredient is most important to your cooking?

Patrick/Danny: Good quality butter and of course salt.

Do you use local ingredients to cook with? If so, what are your favourites?

Patrick: Yes - Currently asparagus Danny: Yes - Currently rhubarb What is your signature dish?

Patrick: Duo of guinea fowl: pan roasted breast, rillette of leg, fondant potato, spinach purée, red wine jus Danny: Poached rhubarb, oat crumble, custard ice cream, custard creme brûlée

Danny: Duck liver Bakewell tart.

What might people expect to taste and experience from The Foragers?

Patrick/Danny: A contemporary twist on traditional British pub food. Great flavours and seasonal produce.

What do you believe you are doing differently with The Foragers cuisine to others?

Patrick/Danny: We aim to think outside the box to create a unique pub dinning experance.

What is the one cooking tool you cannot do without in your kitchen?

Patrick/Danny: Gas and electricity..... And also good quality knives.

Top three tips for amateur chef?

What has been your best culinary idea?

Patrick: Jasmine tea smoked duck.

- food & drink|Chef profile -

Patrick/Danny: Patience, focus and willingness to learn.

Pan fried sea bass, braised spelt, chargrilled spring onion, lobster bisque (main)

Crispy ox tongue, beef shin croquette, red cabbage purĂŠe (starter)

Coq au vin (main)

Passion fruit centred cheese cake, passion fruit sauce, brandy snap (dessert)

3 Stirling Pl, Hove, BN3 3YU 01273 733134 www.theforagerspub.co.uk Photographs: Olly Hearsey www.lionworksstudios.co.uk

- Food & drink|Chef profile -

March 2014

│59

COCKTAIL MASTER CLASSES

&

WINE TASTINGS COCKTAIL MASTERCLASS 25.00 PER PERSON INCLUDING COCKTAILS&CANAPÉS

£

THURSDAY 6TH MARCH

SWEET&SOUR

CLASSIC COCKTAILS WITH A SWEET&SOUR TWIST

THURSDAY 3RD APRIL

STATESIDE

LEARN HOW TO MAKE THE BEST FROM ACROSS THE POND

THURSDAY 1ST MAY

SOUTH AMERICAN COCKTAILS

WINE TASTINGS 25 PER PERSON STARTING AT 6.30PM

£

.00

WEDNESDAY 5TH MARCH

ENGLISH SPARKLING WINES WEDNESDAY 2ND APRIL

WINES OF SPAIN WEDNESDAY 7TH MAY

WINES OF SOUTH AFRICA

SOME SERIOUS SPIRITS FOR SERIOUS DRINKERS

FOR MORE DETAILS CALL OR EMAIL

08447 364 251

events.brighton@hotelduvin.com

w w w. H O T E L D U V I N . c o m HOTEL DU VIN & BISTRO BRIGHTON, SHIP STREET, BRIGHTON, SUSSEX BN1 1AD

guestlist What?

Pinnacle Party Where?

1

2

Latino Restaurant Why? To celebrate the launch of Pinnacle USA Who? 1. Nick Pigott, Lynne Edwards and Alan Prior

3

4

2. Daniel White, Louis Fitch, James Whitehorn, Steve Dhiman and Dominic Loosemore 3. Andrea Hannah Narvz, Luis Higuera and Aimee Mercer 4. Frida Clementz and Damien Du Vivier 5.Fatosh Gunaydin, Alex Santos and Anya Zervudachi

5

6

6. The team at Latinos

Photos: Rosebery Images

Latino is unlike any other Tapas restaurant outside of Spain. It’s a Spanish dining experience packed full of flavour, offering a twist of modern day Spanish cuisine, all alongside the traditional Tapas dishes you know and love at a great value price.

(A la carte Tapas dishes only, cash payments only) We offer lunch Tapas from Tuesday to Friday until 3pm 4 Tapas for £10.00, 6 Tapas for £14.50 and 8 Tapas for only £18.00 All day every Sunday, freshly made Paella for 2 or more and a starter each for only £9.90 per person We offer a party menu for 8 or more people onLy £13.90 which includes all your favourite Tapas dishes Latino offer private hire of their fabulous function room for wedding receptions, meetings or parties with seating for up to 35 guests, with menus including all your favourite Tapas dishes for only £13.90 per guest.

For more information about holding your wedding reception or special occasion at Latino, please contact the restaurant on 01273 77035

36 Church Road, Hove, BN3 2FN | latinos.tapas@gmail.com | www.latinotapas.co.uk @latinotapas

Latino Restaurant

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Come check out Latinos new Gastro Tapas Menu!

With all the favourites plus many more!

Get 10% discount off the bill if you mention Absolute Magazine

Special 2-course menu ÂŁ8.95 3-course menu ÂŁ10.95 (not available Saturday)

No Need to fly for

real street thai Words by Anya Zervudachi

As I stepped though the doors of Street Thai in Brighton Square, out of the thoroughly miserable cold, wet British evening, had I shut my eyes, I could almost have believed I had been transported back to Thailand, due to the exceptionally warm, and genuine smile that greeted us.

We were welcomed into the restaurant by the familiar Thai greeting ‘Sa watdee ka’ and the delicious sweet and savoury smells that filled our senses.

The restaurant was beautifully warm and dimly lit, with candles to set a lovely relaxing atmosphere. As we reached our table and offered a selection of menus to browse, our damp jackets and scarves were taken and we found it warm enough to sit happily in our t-shirts.

Both my guest and I have spent a huge amount of time in south east Asia and we happily discussed how we could easily have been on Koh San Road, despite the freezing cold rain outside.

We admired the selection of traditional Thai condiments on our table and ordered a Chang beer to enjoy to get into the spirit of things.

We ordered some prawn crackers to sample whilst we browsed the menu, which were brought immediately. Perfectly crisp, well flavoured and served with both peanut and sweet chili sauces, which were an ideal accompaniment to the prawn crackers and went down only too well along with to our cold beers.

Street Thai offer a fantastic deal of two courses for just £8.95, but as we had both noted some of our old favourites on the main menu we decided to go all out.

To start we ordered Yum Mamuang Koong Pao (£6.25), a delicious green mango salad with grilled tiger prawns, toasted coconut flakes and cashew nuts in an aromatic dried chili sauce

and Pad Pak Boong (£4.60), which is stir fried morning glory with chilies, garlic & soya bean paste in oyster sauce.

For our own mains we ordered Guai Teaw Tom Yum Gai (£6.75), a Spicy noodle soup served with grilled chicken and Pad Kra-Prao Gai Krob (£7.30), stir fried crispy Thai holy basil leaves with chicken, green beans, pepper, chilies & garlic.

We decided it only polite to sample some of the authentic cocktails they had on offer whilst we waited for our meal. I went for a classic Mojito, a combination of white rum, fresh mint, sugar and soda. My guest decided to go for something with slightly more Thai influence, a Lemongrass Lawan, made up of Mekhong Whisky, fresh lime and lemongrass.

Both cocktails were served long over ice, with the typical sweet and sharp flavours, and were deliciously refreshing. As our starters arrived both my guest and I were amazed with how authentically the dishes were presented. We were in no way disappointed, as the flavours in both dishes lived up to the presentation remarkably well.

The bitter green mango was crisp and fresh and the succulent king prawns char-grilled to perfection, the coconut adding a perfectly well balanced sweetness in to contrast the warming chili in the dark soy sauce.

I was aware that the stir-fried morning glory is more of a side dish than a starter itself but baring in mind the two courses I had to come, and this dish being one of my favourite Thai classics, I couldn’t resist ordering it. I would recommend it to go along side a meaty starter such a chicken satay, or to accompany your main meal. The morning glory was fresh, crunchy and perfectly cooked, served in a light sweet, garlic and chili sauce, a true flavour of Thailand.

to go for a White Lady, which was a refreshing citrus inspired Martini style cocktail combining gin, Cointreau and lemon juice. I would recommend it as the perfect accompaniment to a curry dish as it had a beautiful sharp citrus tang that would cut through a rich curry exceptionally well.

Our mains arrived and again were a perfect tribute to true Thai cuisine. The noodle soup had a very clean fresh flavour with rice noodles being served in a light and spicy broth.

It certainly felt like a more healthy option, combined with the grilled Chicken and wilted greens. The stir-fry, combining some of my favourite flavours of fish sauce, thai basil, fresh chili with moist chicken breast, fresh green and green peppers and green beans.

Despite both my guest and I insisting we were far too full to enjoy a dessert, we decided to have a browse and round off our meal with a delicious a liquor coffee whilst we admired the selection of desserts. After another half an hour of deliberation, we decided it only polite to share a little something, so ordered Lamai Green Tea Cheesecake (£4.50), which came served on a coconut base served with vanilla ice-cream.

The cheesecake was sweet and creamy with a perfectly crunchy buttery biscuit base.

One thing I must mention that particularly stood out throughout the evening was the level of service at Street Thai. We were checked on regularly and all members of staff were exceptionally friendly and attentive. Overall, Street Thai exceeded all my expectations, we had a wonderful evening that left us feeling warm, satisfied and well looked after, easily comparable to an evening spent in Thailand. I will most certainly be going back next time I need a little break and can’t afford a flight to the real place.

After our starters were cleared we took our cue to order another cocktail. We both decided - Food & drink|review -

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Shoreham Taxis

Airport Transfers (Each Way) Gatwick – From £43 Heathrow – From £93 Wheelchair Accessible Bookings taken for up to 8 Passengers Contract Work Welcome 24hr Service Available

01273 441010 www.shoreham-taxis.com

Win VIP Tickets to Foodies Festival, Brighton hove Lawns, 3,4,5th May! Foodies Festival, the UK’s largest celebration of food & drink returns to Brighton’s Hove Lawns on the 3rd, 4th and 5th May for its fourth consecutive year. Each year the evergrowing festival sees tens-of-thousands of visitors flock from the surrounding areas to feast on a vast array of culinary activities, making Foodies Festival the social event of the summer.

Familiar faces at the festival this year include John Whaite, Great British Bake Off winner, Steven Edwards, winner of Masterchef: The Professionals 2013 and current Head Chef at The Camellia at the local South Lodge Hotel in Horsham as well as double act Larkin Cen & Dale Williams, both Masterchef Finalists 2013, who have recently joined forces to stage pop-up dining experience Hokkei.

Now in its ninth year, Foodies Festival has introduced many

exciting new elements to complement the popular food and drink theatres. Visitors to the festival can learn from the best with live cooking demonstrations from Michelin star and celebrity chefs in the Chefs Theatre, enjoy a beer, wine or cocktail drinks masterclass with experts Melissa Cole and Charles Metcalfe, get top tips from the country’s baking experts in the Chocolate, Cake & Bake Theatre, chill out on a hay bale in the new real ale and cider farm, dine at pop-up restaurants Fishy Fishy, and Riddle & Finns, perfect their BBQ’ing skills at the outdoor BBQ Arena, enter a chilli eating competition, relax in the stylish VIP areas, join in an afternoon tea dance in the Vintage Tea Tent and much more!

We have 3 pairs of VIP and 10 pairs of runner up tickets to giveaway to this great event! For your chance to win simply answer the following question: ‘Who won Masterchef: The Professionals 2013?’ Please send your answer along with your full name and contact number to: anya@absolutemagazine.co.uk. To double your chances of winning, please like and share the competition on our facebook page along with your full name in the comments. Please check out www.absolutemagazine.co.uk for more fabulous competitions and information.

VIP tickets include a glass of fizz on arrival, access to the VIP tent throughout the day, a goody bag and priority entry in theatre and masterclass sessions as well as a private bar with refreshments throughout the day and great views of the entertainment stage.

Foodies Festivals also take place at Marble Hill, Kenwood House, Clapham Common London, Bristol, Tatton Park in Cheshire, Edinburgh, Battersea Park and Oxford. www.foodiesfestival.com, 0844 995 1111

Foodies Festival with top chefs

Brighton Hove Lawns May Bank Holiday 3, 4, 5 May

2013 MASTERCHEF PROFESSIONAL STEVEN EDWARDS LIVE

0844 995 1111

www.foodiesfestival.com

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BY

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Food & Drink

OMMEN C E

Directory Boho Gelato

The Marwood

The Foragers

Hove Place

Drury

Topolino Duo

Plough Inn

Be At One

Lovely traditional village pub situated on the pond in Rottingdean. Highly regarded for very well kept local real ales, excellent gastro style pub food and hosting a good variety of quality live music acts from time to time. Typically rammed for Sunday Roast so booking early is essential!

Vicarage Lane, Rottingdean, BN2 7HD – 01273 390635 – www. theploughinnrottingdean.co.uk

Be At One is a cocktail institution with bars based in Brighton, London & Reading. Excellent service, great atmosphere and delicious cocktails served from the 147-strong menu, makes it the ultimate party bar. The daily happy hours offer great value and their highly-trained professional bartenders will ensure a great time, any night of the week.

The Coffee Counter

Little Bird

Brighton’s Original Home Of Gelato! 24 changing flavours (taken from a list of over 450!) made fresh on site daily using Sussex produced milk and cream and top quality ingredients. At least 5 non diary vegan flavours are also available.

6 Pool Valley (near Brighton Pier) 01273727205. Also stocked in businesses across Sussex.

“While many pubs are trying to serve up local grub with a seasonal twist, the foragers have gone a step further. Several steps in fact “ The Observer.

Recent winners of the Brighton and Hove Food & Drink Awards 2013 & the Sussex Food and Drink Awards 2012 also awarded an AA Rosette for the past 4 years. The foragers are trailblazers in both sustainability and fine pub grub and are therefore a must for all foodies. Now serving an all day bar menu alongside their other menus and also now open on Sunday evenings for food. 3 Stirling Place, Hove 01273 733 134, www.theforagerspub.co.uk

Brighton has enjoyed Drury tea & coffee from the mid 1960’s. Now located in Richardson Road in Hove, it is a joy to all who know it. A real hidden gem and just a step away from the hurly burly of town centre life. You can sit and enjoy an expertly made coffee, or a pot of tea whist your coffee is ground to take home with you. 12-18 Richardson Rd, Hove, East Sussex BN3 5RB 01273 888600

The Coffee Counter was started by two friends with a love of Coffee and a passion for Micro-Business and Independents. Their simple aim: To serve great Coffee with a smile. Discover this hidden gem and their wonderful 5 bean blend Coffee on Vine Street, North Laines. Or check out our new counter at 1a North Road BN1 1YA SSSSSHHHHH it’s a Secret!!!!

13 - 16 Vine Street, BN1 4AG Brighton 07760 917716

The Kitchen at Marwood is serving a brunch style menu with daily lunch specials from 8.30am Monday - Friday and early weekends too. As always, serving kickarse coffee, life changing cake and booze a plenty. Open 8-late 7 days a week.

52 Ship St, Brighton - 01273 382063 Check out our new kitchen Facebook page. www.facebook.com/ TheKitchenAtMarwood

Basement level at the top of First Avenue, just off Church Road. Renowned for a relaxed atmosphere, Hove Place has earned a fantastic reputation for its excellent food and great service. The intriguing Bistro menu in particular is extremely popular! 35/37 First Avenue, Hove, BN3 2FH – 01273 738266 – www.hoveplace.co.uk

Topolino Duo is a fabulous family run Italian Ristorante/Pizzeria situated in the heart of Hove. They have been established for over 25 years, are known in Brighton and Hove for having a fantastic long standing reputation and a huge choice of mouth watering dishes.

Open 7 days a week. Topolino Duo 65 – 67 Church Road Hove BN3 2BD 01273 725726 See our website for special offers www.topolinoduo.co.uk

Little Bird is a gorgeous little cafe located in the heart of the North Laine, Brighton.

Serving some of the most delicious coffee and truly scrumptious cake. Like and share ‘Little Bird’ on facebook or even better pop in and sample the delights for yourself.

Open 10am-5pm 16 Kensington Gardens

littlebirdbrighton.wordpress.com

To be featured in the food & drink directory please email Anya Zervudachi at: anya@absolutemagazine.co.uk 66│

March 2014

- Food & Drink|Directory -

guestlist What?

Sussex Food and Drink Awards 2013/14 Where?

1

AMEX stadium Brighton

2

Why? To celebrate the county’s food heroes Who? 1. Winner Veasey & Sons 2.Winner Nick Bennett

3

3. Nigel Heath, Craig Stevens, Alan Miller and Paul Feist

4

4. David Mulchay, Jeremy Dicks, Polly Harrison, Ian Nuttall and Colin Perkins 5. Peter Buckingham, Jason Hedge and Howard Lewis 6. Mark Robinson, Michaela Hoirkova and Sam Beard 7. Rob Bookham with Hilary Knight 8. Fiona Kay and Natalie Brown

5

9. Farmer of the Year, Charlie Hughes, proposes on stage to his girlfriend, Sarah.

She said yes!

6

10. Simom Pattinson, Montezuma’s

7

8

9

10

Photos: www.snapitnow.co.uk

- Guest|List -

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Bohemia

Grand Cafe â?– Late Lounge Love coffee? Love Dining?

Love music? Love Bohemia‌

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Traditional Afternoon Tea from 3-6pm (booking advisable) Open hours 9am-1am (Sunday-Thursday) Till 3am Friday and Saturday

www.bohemiabrighton.co.uk 54-55 Meeting House Lane, Brighton Telephone: 01273 777770 Free wifi and newspapers. Follow us on Twitter & Facebook

guestlist What?

Cocktail reception Where?

BeAtOne 1

Why?

2

The first night of A Perfect Murder, Peter James’ play at the Theatre Royal Who? 1. Hilary Carnochan and Robert Morris 2.Steven Duffel and Eileen Harbour 3. Michael Pay Isabella Stewart 3

4

4. John Harbour and Alan Prior 5.Michael Pay and John Harbour 6. Jenny Rogers and friends

5

6

If you would like to see your event on these pages email us on guestlist@absolutemagazine.co.uk

Photos: Rosebery Images

- Guest|List -

March 2014

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SWEET FREEDOM Rebecca Ferguson talks to Daniel White about her emotional rollercoaster since leaving the X Factor.

“It’s freedom,

sweet freedom. I was so dumb. They held me to the ground but now I’m free.

”

X Factor runner-up Rebecca Ferguson offers up a glimpse into her suffering since her time on the ITV talent show with these lyrics from her song ‘My Freedom’.

The Liverpudlian finished second to Matt Cardle in the competition’s 2010 final, however, it was Ferguson who went on to stun critics with her number three album ‘Heaven’ going double platinum.

“It was crazy, it was fun but it was such a surreal experience,” Ferguson said of her time on the show. “I enjoyed it and it was a brilliant thing for me, it made me who I am but I wouldn’t do it again.”

Following the release of the hit album, the 27-year-old went on tour and has barely stopped since.

“To be honest it has been really up and down,” the mother of two explained. “I went on a promotional tour pretty much all around the world, then the UK Tour and then I started writing ‘Freedom’ so I haven’t stopped. It looks like I’ve been away but I actually have been really busy.”

Ferguson was pushed to her limits by her former management company Modest! and reached breaking point when she collapsed through exhaustion during her tour of Australia.

The singer-songwriter claimed she was not allowed enough time off to see her children and branded the management company “vile” and “greedy” before being sued by Modest!

Ferguson stated on her Twitter account: “Was so exhausted I couldn’t physically walk on my own but was still told I had to work!!”

The artist, who is also currently part of a police inquiry into the people who scammed her out of £100,000 over two years, finally felt her body give in due to exhaustion.

“I tried to get back on my feet,” she said. “It was like I was trying to push through it saying ‘No, come on Becky you’re strong, you can do this,’ but then, I don’t know, people can call it fate, people can call it God but just as I was about to carry on, my leg broke so that forced me then to have some rest.”

Despite the case recently being settled between the two parties, when the subject of her former management company is brought up, Rebecca responds with a clearly rehearsed spiel to avoid any more issues.

“I’m not legally allowed to talk about them to be honest,” she states. “I wish them well, everything’s settled now and I wish they continue to have success. I see that as all in the past now.”

- Interview -

Despite the chaotic period in her life, she feels it has helped her grow as a person and as a parent.

“I take a lot of ownership in my life now and I think I take a lot of initiative,” she clarified.

“If I don’t like something I say I don’t like something now and that’s called being an adult and that’s called being a mother so I think I’ve changed as a person now and I take a lot more responsibility for my own life.”

Following the emotional turmoil she experienced with Modest!, Ferguson signed with a new management company, however, when the time came to write her second studio album, she found herself in a dark place.

Battling heavily with depression, she struggled to get out of bed in the morning and almost decided not to continue her career in the music industry.

March 2014

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“When I wrote ‘Freedom’ I was going through the mill,” she explains. “I felt like I was going through it all because I was trying to create a positive album. I wanted it to be an album that you pressed play when you were feeling down.”

Ferguson, who will perform at the Brighton Dome on March 19th, released her new album ‘Freedom’ in December after battling through her depression and she admits she is now in a much better place.

She said: “I feel like now I’ve settled, I’ve got my head around the industry, I’ve got my head around what I do so it’s not much of a shock to me or a lifestyle change now.

I feel really happy so lets see how long it

lasts, touch wood nothing happens but I’m really happy.”

The mother of Lillie May, 9, and Karl, 7, spent parts of her childhood in foster care and with family friends due to her mother’s illness, however, she praised her mum for giving her the strength to battle on and become a strong parent herself.

“I can’t deny on paper it really looks bad and it was bad but I try and stay positive,” she smiled.

“My mum has a big role in how she brought me up in the sense of kindness and treating people equally so I just try and instil that in my children and teach them to be nice and respectful to people and so far so good.”

After three years of battling everything that has come her way, Ferguson is now in a good place and is positive about the future, whatever it may bring.

“I just want to be happy,” she explained. “It sounds really cheesy but I’m enjoying life and letting it take me wherever it takes me and I’m not setting myself crazy goals. I’m just enjoying life just seeing where it goes.”

Brighton Dome March 19th brightondome.org

MUSIC NEWS Great Escape Line Up Announced The first 100 bands for this summer’s Great Escape Festival have been announced, with BRIT award-winner Kelis headlining the first show at the Brighton Dome this May. The local bands encompassed in the line up include Traams, Beautiful Boy and Royal Blood.

The Wytches sign record deal Brighton-based band The Wytches have released a free-to-download single Gravedweller in celebration of signing a deal with record company Heavenly Recordings.

They also provide two B-side tracks; Carnival Law and Wide at Midnight, which will be available on cassette and given away on upcoming tour dates.

Dog in the Snow release ‘Factory’ Dog in the Snow singer Helen Ganya Brown has brought audiences to tears over the last year with her haunting vocals in the song Factory, which she has recently announced will be released through Tidal Wave Sounds.The Brighton-based performer will release the single on March 3 and you can hear the track at the Prince Albert when she performs on March 6.

New LGBT Festival in Brighton Founders of Brighton’s popular Shakedown Festival are launching the ‘Takeover’ this month; a music festival for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender students in Brighton on March 28. A single wristband will give free entry to nightclubs including Revenge, Charles Street and Legends.

GIG GUIDE The Overtones – Sat 1st Mar @ Brighton Dome Foxes – Sun 2nd Mar @ The Haunt Room 94 – Mon 3rd Mar @ Concorde Gabriella Cilmi – Tue 4th Mar @ The Haunt Paper Aeroplanes – Wed 5th Mar @ The Green Door Store The Stranglers – Thu 6th Mar @ Brighton Dome After originating from the 1970s UK punk scene, The Stranglers have gone on to become one of the country’s longest-serving and most successful bands, achieving some 23 UK top 40 singles. The Surrey four-piece intend to feature a selection of songs from every studio album in their 40 year career.

Rizzle Kicks – Fri 7th Mar @ Brighton Centre Mark Gardener – Sat 8th Mar @ The Hope Enos – Sun 9th Mar @ Prince Albert Beat Express – Mon 10th Mar @ Brighton Dome Charlee Srew – Tue 11th Mar @ Bermuda Triangle Andy McKee – Wed 12th Mar @ St George’s Church Ella Eyre – Thu 13th Mar @ Concorde Three Kings High – Fri 14th Mar @ The Brunswick

The Stranglers

The Loveable Rogues – Sat 15th Mar @ The Haunt The 2012 Britain’s Got Talent finalists kick off their UK Tour by bringing their cheeky charm to Brighton. The fun loving trio are currently establishing their place in Britain’s music world as they aim to fashion a new style undefined by specific genres.

Land of the Giants – Sun 16th Mar @ Komedia Franz Ferdinand – Mon 17th Mar @ Brighton Dome Autonomads – Tue 18th Mar @ Sticky Mike’s Frog Bar Dexters – Wed 19th Mar @ The Green Door Store Story Books – Thu 20th Mar @ The Hope Nai Harvest – Fri 21st Mar @ Sticky Mike’s Frog Bar Wonk Unit – Sat 22nd Mar @ The Prince Albert Twin Forks – Sun 23rd Mar @ The Green Door Store Porchlight Smoker – Mon 24th Mar @ The Greys Katy B – Tue 25th Mar @ Concorde After bursting onto the scene with her UK Indie number one ‘Katy on a Mission’ Katy B continues to excite, as the singer-songwriter from London brings tracks from her forthcoming album ‘Little Red’ to the south coast.

Photo: David Boni

- Music News|Gig Guide -

Dog in the Snow

Conference of Dance Brighton is about to host the biggest celebration of dance music the city has seen. The Brighton Music Conference offers an array of opportunities for both experienced professionals, those looking to break into the electronic music industry, plus a celebration of electronic dance music for the fans.

Visitors will include Record Labels, Music Production, DJ’s, Artists, Event / Concert Promoters, Managers, Agents and Consultants, Venues, Radio, Sound, Technical, and Hardware, Film and Video, Producers, Station Managers, Tour Managers, Digital Marketing, Venue Managers and Bookers, Video Directors, Broadcasters, Buyers, Commissioners, Distributors, and more.

The show consists of a two day exhibition featuring 50 music tech showcases of the latest cutting-edge equipment, as well as educational master classes, panels and talks covering everything from DJing and production, to sound, event management, piracy-prevention, marketing, and new technologies.

At the heart of the event will be a series of live showcases of the latest equipment, live Q&A’s with both up and coming & established producers and DJ’s. If you know your dance music then the you will have probably danced to many of the following big names involved: Dave Clarke, Nick Warren, John 00 Fleming, Dave Seaman and many more including Brighton’s Mick Fuller.

It is more than a conference - there are two nights of club events and parties from the hottest DJ talent and most exciting record labels.

Plus a one day business conference for the UK electronic music industry, featuring insightful panels, and trend discussions with the scene’s leading players. It’s the first major event one of its kind in the UK. When: April 11 & 12 2014 Where: Brighton Dome & Brighton’s top clubs More info: Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, www.brightonmusicconference.co.uk March 2014 │73

SICKER THAN YOUR AVERAGE FESTIVAL A new festival will be taking over Brighton this month shedding light on physical and mental illness.

The topic of illness can be a hard one to approach.

Whether it be mental or physical, it is tackled with caution and trepidation normally for fear of a show of ignorance or causing offence.

However, a new arts and culture festival will take place in Brighton throughout March confronting the physical, mental and social challenges of life and death.

SICK! Festival, which will run from March 3-29, will feature live performances from renowned comedians and actors, as well as dance, instillation, film and debates, covering the issues surrounding mental illness, ageing and death.

TV personality and mental health campaigner, Ruby Wax, will open the month-long festival with her show Same New World, discussing her personal experience with depression as well as her study of cognitive therapy.

Ruby Wax Photo: Steve Ullathorne

Elsewhere, the stories of four patients’ and their doctors are displayed in a large-scale light-box instillation in Stories From The Front Line, in Jubilee Square.

The Gob Squad’s final show of Before Your Very Eyes is also set to take place following more than 100 international performances. The performance presents seven children peering into their futures as they plan for adulthood.

Meanwhile, medical directors, senior researchers and communication professors will discuss the treatment of mental illness employed by doctors and psychologists in Good Pharma – Bad Pharma, a topical debate held at Brighton Town Hall.

NICOLA STREETEN WOODROW PHOENIX

The Basement will play host to many of this month’s performances and Helen Medland, the venue’s Artistic Director, is looking forward to shedding light on some of the lesser-publicised illnesses.

“Being sick is a universal thing that everyone experiences at some point in their lives and connects us all as human beings,” she explained.

“The SICK! Festival is about shining a light on those serious mental and physical health issues, which too often remain hidden and under the radar. Underlying the SICK! Festival is a desire to help inform and open minds, share experiences but also bring humour to those dark periods of life.

ILYA

IAN WILLIAMS

“We want to celebrate the survival of human life, individual resilience and the social bonds that keep us going through this incredible array of highly personal performances, art and discussions.”

To see a full programme of events or for more information on this month’s SICK! Festival, then visit www.sickfestival.com 74│

March 2014

- Culture|festival -

BEFORE YOUR VERY EYES

A MEDICINE MISTAKE After a five-year studio hiatus The Fratellis have returned with a new album and Daniel White catches up with unvexed bassist Barry Wallace to find out what’s new.

At the peak of their success The Fratellis were riding high on the triumph of their UK number two album Costello Music while hit single Chelsea Dagger permeated football stadiums throughout the country.

At this moment in time the group were touring around England and Barry Wallace, the band bassist, clearly remembers a crowning moment amid the chaos.

“One day I was sitting on the beach and everything was just perfectly good at that moment,” he explained in his distinctive Glaswegian accent. “It was a nice sunny day and the band were doing well so that’s probably my favourite Brighton memory.”

The Fratellis leapt into the public eye in 2007, scooping the BRIT Award for Best British Breakthrough Act for Costello Music, and took the music industry by storm, dominating indie-rock festivals around the country with their infectious choruses and youthful glee.

“It was exciting, it was scary, it was exhausting, probably every emotion you could think of happened at some point in those years because your life changes in a big way,” Barry described as he pin-points the bedlam in his memory. “You spend years growing up in a band, dreaming about what it would be like

if you made it and then it happens and it all sort of whizzes by you.“ However, two years on and the band had split up following the release of their lessthan-successful second album Here We Stand which, despite peaking at number five in the UK charts, was heavily criticised by fans and the media alike.

Barry, though, was characteristically unfazed by the break down of one of the noughties most influential floor-fillers when I asked why they split.

He said: “The same reason, I guess, that most bands split up. If you work together with people, travel with them, you’re going to get on each other’s nerves once in a while, so everybody needs a break.”

The trio stayed firmly out of one another’s lives during their sabbatical from the music industry and Barry feels it is paying dividends now.

“We sent the odd Christmas card but that was about it,” he explained, unperturbed by the potency of his words. “It’s probably a good way to way spend your time away, if we hadn’t of had that complete break for a couple of years, then maybe we wouldn’t have got back together now.”

- Culture|music -

The band is back though and, following a series of tours in 2012 to, as Barry describes it, “dip our toe in the water again just to see if the foundation’s still there,” the band released their third studio album in October, including its second single, She’s Not Gone Yet But She’s Leaving, which was released in February.

“It’s pretty much the same old s**t really,” he described with minimal enthusiasm. “We’re the same guys, same band, same songwriters, same musicians, it was never the idea to just recreate what we’ve done in the past because that wouldn’t be much fun for anybody, most of all us.“ Despite a five year break from the band, the album offers little in the way of originality and, while it sticks to the repetitive nature of Costello Music, it offers less in the way of catchy choruses and cheeky witticisms than their debut album.

Whilst The Fratellis are trying to restore their former energy in We Need Medicine, they haven’t quite found the right mix yet and, when band member Barry sounds as uninterested in the album as the rest of us, it leaves me wondering why we should be bothered either.

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MARCH MOVIE MADNESS Absolute Cinema Guide with Bill Murray This month we have some gritty action movies and very poignant moving (almost classical) movies on offer at our Sussex screens. Although the very best place to watch movies is obviously on the beach (yes we got permission and yes Brighton’s Big Screen is back from 12th June to 13th July this year!). Showing big blockbuster movies along with all the sporting action from Wimbledon (We’re all behind you Andy) the World Cup in Brazil (Come on England!!!!) and the Formula 1 British Grand Prix (Go Lewis!!). Keep your eyes peeled for news and information on all Big Screen events at www.brigtonsbigscreen.co.uk And so to March...

300: Rise of an Empire A prequel rather than a sequel, exploring how Xerxes (Rodrigo Santoro) became the God-King of Persia. This means that none of the Spartan heroes from the first movie will reappear – a disappointment to fans of large men in small skirts!! Comic-book legend Frank Miller will return to pen the screenplay and you can expect another blood-spattered cartoon about ancient tough nuts knocking seven shades of shite out of each other, but hey, that’s Hollywood. I love the first film and Its gritty realism of the animation combined with the clever effects with the actors makes this pure popcorn fodder!

The Grand Budapest Hotel Writer-director Wes Anderson returns with another portrait of loveable oddballs in spectacular locations. With its sprawling cast and unique set design, ‘The Grand Budapest Hotel’ is a return to the quirky, ornate Anderson of ‘The Royal Tenenbaums’ and ‘The Darjeeling Limited’ Ralph Fiennes stars as M. Gustave, concierge of the titular hotel in the inter-war years. The film follows Gustave and his lobby-boy Zero (newcomer Tony Revolori) as they go on the run from the authorities following the death of a guest. The astonishing cast features a frankly dizzying array of famous faces, including Willem Dafoe, Edward Norton, Saiorse Ronan, Harvey Keitel, Jason Schwartzmann, Tilda Swinton, Jude Law, Owen Wilson, Jeff Goldblum, Adrien Brody, Bob Balaban and of course the spectacularly named Bill Murray.

4/5 from me as I just love Wes Anderson

An above-average 3/5 from me.

Grace of Monaco You wait for ages for a tear-jerking biopic of a tragic princess and then two come along at once. Princess of Monaco and ultimate Hitchcock blonde Grace Kelly is played here by fellow icy blonde Nicole Kidman. In this gorgeous telling of a fairy tale princess there are lots of expensive jewels, Riviera sunsets and dangerously winding roads. The film is directed by Olivier Dahan, whose ‘La Vie en Rose’ so poignantly portrayed another Gallic icon, Édith Piaf. But then again, not even Oliver Hirschbiegel’s experience with ‘Downfall’ could save the total nightmare that was ‘Diana’. However, this movie has Nicole Kidman acting out of her skin as the feted princess who from humble beginnings became a world treasure!

This gets a tentative 3 out of 5 and is based solely on the incredible response that Kidman has had with her portrayal of this beautiful princess.

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- Culture|Film -

5 Top Films from Gavin George of Inn Brighton 1. Taxi Driver. I’m sure this film has featured many times over in this column, but what an awesome combination of Schrader’s script, Scorsese’s direction, De Niro’s performance and Herrmann’s score.

All of them magnificent and all of them delivering from the opening to the closing credits.

2. Blade Runner. Philip K. Dick is a master of science fiction writing and the full dystopian horror of Do Android’s Dream of Electric Sheep is brought out brilliantly in Ridley Scott’s film version. Again the score is a key ingredient in the overall ‘marvelousness’ of the finished product, but the prophetic nature of the storyline is what gives this sci-fi classic the nod over the equally brilliant 2001 A Space Odyssey.

3. Anchorman. Will Ferrell, is one of the funniest men on the planet and this film is the perfect vehicle for that brand of humour that is so clever, to some it seems infantile. In reality it is of course comic genius and Ferrell plus a very strong supporting cast, are the very best at delivering it.

4. 8½. European surrealist cinema is so far removed from Hollywood movies, it is hard to consider them in the same context.

However, it’s the very fact that European cinema transports you to a place that Hollywood cannot, by engaging a completely different set of emotions and values, that makes it so brilliant to watch. And Fellini is the master.

5. Citizen Kane. For me this is the best example of an American film maker using European techniques and styles, to create a visionary masterpiece that reveals something new every time I watch it. I shudder to think what Orson Wells could have achieved if Hollywood had let him carry on instead of being scared of him. Perhaps Hurst got his revenge.

- Culture|film -

March 2014

│7 7

Kraken vs. Cupid Valentine’s Party Brought to you by Kraken Black Spiced Rum On Friday 14th February, The Mesmerist in Brighton was transformed into a dark inky and mysterious den to host the Kraken vs. Cupid Valentines Party. The Kraken was on hand, gifting black roses and some inky drink delights. Cupid never stood a chance.

Follow: @thekrakenrum_uk

The Mayor’s Challenge Day Friday 4 April, 9am - 6pm Want to have fun and raise funds for charity at the same time?

We’re inviting teams of four colleagues or friends to join us for an action-packed day of activities to raise money for the Mayor’s Charities.

Some of the leading companies in the city are coming together to raise funds for The Mayor’s Challenge Day on 4 April 2014.

Teams of four have been put together by The Dental Health Spa, Domestic & General, Gresham Blake, Meerkat Works, Primecare Insurance, Mishon Mackay and Capital International.

The teams will leave the Old Steine on a luxury Brighton & Hove Bus coach and head to Team Sport in Lancing for a morning of

adrenalin pumping go-karting. Having built up

The Mayor’s Challenge Day is organised by

an appetite the teams will enjoy an inclusive

Red7 Holidays, Midnight Communications,

buffet brunch provided by Brighton’s supper

The Brighton & Hove Bus Company and

club queen, Cantina.

Brighton & Hove Food and Drink Festival.

They then drive to the amazing woodland

Ian Lucas, managing director at Red7 Holidays,

site at Knockhatch Adventure Park’s where

commented: “I am thrilled to be able to offer

teams will compete on an assault course,

companies the opportunity to support some

along with archery and rifle shooting.

very worthy charities and have a fun day out

Following a quiz on the bus the teams head

at the same time.”

back to Brighton.

At the time of going to print there was

All profits from the event will go to support

space left for two teams. Its costs £199

the Mayor’s chosen charities for 2014

(plus vat) to enter a team of four.

including AgeUK, Argus Appeal, Martlets Hospice, Off the Fence and Rockinghorse.

www.brightonfoodfestival.com/news/ mayors-challenge-day/

- CULTURE|EVENT -

MARCH 2014

│79

A brighton bubble Mike Holland recalls an unusual motoring industry The area around Brighton station these days is a world away from the thriving industry that once flourished on the site.

Brighton railway works was one of the earliest locomotive repair works, founded in 1840, and pre-dates the railway works at Crewe, Doncaster and Swindon. The works grew steadily between 1841 and 1900 and, whilst there were always problems because of the site restrictions, it turned out more than 1200 steam engines between 1852 and 1947. Perhaps even more interestingly some of the first prototype diesel electric and electric locomotives were constructed there.

However, by 1957 production ceased and the site was leased to BMW for the production of their Issetta 300 model (bubble cars).

The Issetta was taking the country by storm and at the height of production BMW were turning out 300 vehicles per week at the Brighton factory with a workforce of just 200 operatives. The Issetta was a small one door car, designed in Italy by a company called “ISO” and Issetta means little ISO. BMW bought the rights from ISO and using their existing motorbike technology, re-engineered the car so that it had, initially, a 247cc four stroke air cooled engine. When this was found later to be a bit underpowered the engine was upgraded to a 297cc version which was much more popular. As the factory had no road access all materials coming into the site did so by rail.

The finished product also left the same way which seemed to work well for both BMW and the railway. The Issetta factory made its last vehicle in 1964 having been made extinct by the mini, the bubble car era came to an end and the works closed. It seems ironic that today’s mini is in fact made by BMW. Whilst the railway works were at their height, across the other side of what is now the city of Brighton and Hove, a young Fred Miles was practicing a wholly different type of engineering. In 1922, at the age of 19, Fred was busy building a plane in his fathers laundry works in Wellington Road, Portslade.

At 19 he had already run his own motorcycle rental business and whilst this early aviation model never actually flew it provided young Fred with some invaluable experience. He then learned to fly at Shoreham where he

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1959 BMW Isetta

“This truly remarkable family are yet another local example of our engineering heritage of which we can be rightly proud.” and his instructor Leonard Pashley formed a flying school. Much to his fathers delight he also formed an aircraft repair business and the whole operation moved from Wellington Road to Shoreham airport.

In 1931, at the age of 28, he married a former flying pupil Maxine FreemanThomas, known to their friends as Blossom.

She had divorced her husband to marry the flamboyant Fred and there was a fair amount of unpleasant publicity surrounding the very acrimonious divorce from her husband who was heir to the Marquis of Willingdon. Having weathered the storm the couple went on to design a successful single seat biplane, the Miles M.1 Satyr later modified to become the Martlet.

- Culture|History-

Fred and Blossom had been joined in the business by Fred’s extremely talented, albeit quieter and less extrovert, brother George. The brothers complemented each other well and at eight years younger than his brother, George brought with him a renewed freshness to the business. It wasn’t long before the Southern Aircraft Company was going from strength to strength. The company even built a custom built Mohawk for Charles Lindbergh, the American aviator, and their designs were in ever increasing demand. The family went on to form Miles Aircraft and amongst their many achievements built several models of training aircraft for the RAF and many wartime pilots received their training in them. This truly remarkable family are yet another local example of our engineering heritage of which we can be rightly proud.

R

BY

D DE

Artist

OMMEN C E

Directory Alice Duck

Alice Maplesden

Maria Zervudachi

Louise Brooks

Justyna Neryng

Merrimaking

Alice Duck creates quirky ceramics designed to brighten up the rainiest of days. The inspiration for her range being drawn from antique crockery ‘that your grandma might still keep on that dusty dresser’. Each piece is individually designed and handmade, giving it its own unique character, the perfect unique Mother’s Day gift. www.duckceramics.co.uk

Already established in the Tunbridge Wells area, Maria makes beautiful ceramic sculptures based on the human form and has recently joined the Chalk Gallery in Lewes. Her pieces are informed by an essence of serenity which links to her deep practice of yoga and meditation.

Each piece is handmade, unique, and slow fired for strength and durability. www.chalkgallerylewes.co.uk 01273 474477

Justyna Neryng is a multi award winning portrait photographer. Her series “Childhood Lost” is an ongoing project where she explores notions of memory and childhood by portraying her young daughter. Justyna is now bringing her works to a wider audience by offering her own bespoke portrait service to parents and children. www.justynaneryng.co.uk

Alice Maplesden makes lovely, silly but useful ceramics from her studio in Hove. Her pots are hand thrown and individually decorated and make wonderful, affordable and original gifts.

She is happy to take personalised commissions. Have a look at more of her work at www.alicemaplesden.co.uk and on Facebook Alice Maplesden Ceramics.

Louise’s striking paintings are inspired by the ever-changing sea views she can see daily from her home in Saltdean.

Each painting dances with light, shimmering and sparkling with the added radiance of Swarovski crystals and semiprecious gemstones.

See her latest work at Art at Five, 5 Bartholomews, Brighton, BN1 1HG. www.louisebrooks.co.uk

For the playful. Animal hoods, upbeat apparel and fruity accessories, all designed to add some fun to your winter wardrobe. Merrimakings pieces are worn

by Ellie Goulding, Rizzle Kicks and Rob Da Bank, have flooded the fields at summer festivals and been high-sellers in Selfridges. www.merrimaking.co.uk

Brighton Body Casting

Louise Z Pomeroy

We create sculptures cast directly from the body and we’ll make you look amazing! World renowned artist, Jamie McCartney’s award winning studio/gallery is unique in the UK. Hands, faces, torsos or even whole bodies can be cast in anything from plaster to glass or bronze. www.brightonbodycasting.com

Louise Z Pomeroy is a Brighton-born illustrator and print designer based in London.

Her detailed line work and spot colour, often mixed with a dose of dark humour, can be found on the walls of various haunts across London (including Far Rockaway Shoreditch, pictured), magazines and on book covers. www.louisezpomeroy.com www.facebook.com/LouisePomeroyIllustration

Louise Chavannes

Pearl Bates

Winter trees, light reflection, magic and dark places. All these things inspire the images I create. Each day I walk the same walk through fields and woodland absorbing the changing moods and colour around me. I select paintings from this landscape. I hope the affection I have for this countryside is evident in my work. I also have a childish love of fairy tales and all things magical. www.louisechavannes.com

Described as ‘Schiele goes fashion’, Pearl Bates’s Internationally exhibited works (inc. Manhattan, Santa Barbara, Zurich, Antwerp, Berlin and London) celebrate our hidden psyches, and come from an extraordinary world of dreams, enchantment, a touch of humour and lashings of glamour. www.pearlbates.com

To be featured in the artist directory please email Ian Trevett at: ian.trevett@absolutemagazine.co.uk - Culture|Directory -

March 2014

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Art Listings March 2014 8 to 23 March The Big Art Secret 2 Display of mini artworks donated in aid of St Wilfrid’s Hospice and Towner Charitable Trust, including contributions

by Grayson Perry and David Cameron.

Artworks available to buy on eBay from 14 to 23 March.

Towner, Devonshire Park, College Road, Eastbourne, BN21 4JJ www.townereastbourne.org.uk

Dion Salvador Lloyd Words by Jenni Davidson You would think that being called after Salvador Dali would put a lot of pressure on an artist, but Dion Salvador Lloyd seems comfortable taking his own path. Although artist isn’t a word he’s happy using in relation to himself.

“I’m not an artist. I’m a painter,” he says. “I don’t like the word artist. It’s something you earn. I don’t call myself an artist.”

The Hove-based landscape painter isn’t comfortable hanging out with other artists talking about art. He’s more interesting in just getting on with it.

Lloyd hasn’t come from a conventional art college background and, other than at school, he has never studied art. After failing O-level art - an exam he was tipped to get an A in - Lloyd didn’t pick up a paintbrush for another 15 years. It was only after a trip through the Middle East in his 30s that he felt called back to painting.

Because he lives near the sea and many of his paintings have a stormy look about them, people often assume Dion Salvador Lloyd’s paintings are seascapes, but they aren’t.

He describes his works as ‘global paintings’; they are landscapes, but they’re not any specific landscape.

“They’re little journeys. They can be what you want them to be.”

He loves photography and has boxes of photos filed away, but he doesn’t use them to work from.

“I don’t go into my studio with images of things that I like: ‘Oh, that’s a nice mountain scene in Scotland’,” he says. “I work very spontaneously.”

The landscapes are more about feelings that a literal recreation of a location and music plays a big part in that. The paintings are an emotional response to what he listens to.

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“I can’t just go to the studio and put on background music. I stick to my favourites. I stick to my Nick Cave, David Sylvain, Talk Talk.”

“I love sad music. The emotional moment just pulls you,” he says.

Nature is another big influence.

“Since an early age I was always fascinated by nature. I never had cars and action men.

I don’t even remember watching telly.” He always had sticks and stones and feathers in his pockets, he says, and still does.

“I’ve always got things in my pockets. Things from places I’ve visited. I’d rather that than fridge magnets.”

He still gets excited about going to the studio to see what he’s done the day before and has as many as 40 unfinished canvases on the go at one time.

Talking to Dion Salvador Lloyd, ‘journey’ is a word that comes up again and again. He doesn’t want to keep on doing the same work.

“You can’t just be stuck in the rut,” he says.

“If you go to my website and look at my work, they’re like different painters.”

“You could say ‘if it’s not broke, don’t fix it’ but for me painting is about discovery.”

“If you’re making the same work day in day out for years, you’re not respecting yourself.”

For a while he painted landscapes with smooth giant skies inspired by the American landscape, but after a trip to the US to fulfil a lifelong ambition to see the Grand Canyon his style changed.

His current work is more rough and textured and he has also recently been working with oil on paper, the happy result of a contribution to a Martlets fundraiser where he had to get the painting right first time on the piece of paper they gave him.

It would probably have been better - Culture|Art -

Until 9 March Subversive Design Last chance to see this exhibition of provocative and outlandish objects by designers including Phillippe Starck, Vivienne Westwood, Alexander McQueen and David Shrigley.

Brighton Museum and Art Gallery, Royal Pavilion Gardens, Brighton, BN1 1EE www.brighton-hove-rpml.org.uk 22 March Islamic Art Workshop with Dinah Kelly Learn how to create intricate Islamic designs, patterns and architectural details using a range of materials. Cost £30. Pre-booking required.

Phoenix Brighton, 10-14 Waterloo Place, Brighton, BN2 9NB www.phoenixbrighton.org

7 March to 9 April Romek Marber Retrospective of work by graphic designer Romek Marber for Penguin Books, The Economist, New Society, Town and Queen magazines, Nicholson’s London Guides, the BBC, Columbia Pictures, London Planetarium and others.

University of Brighton Gallery, 58-67 Grand Parade, Brighton, BN2 0JY www.arts.brighton.ac.uk

commercially to continue with those American landscape paintings, he says. They’re ‘safe’ and people can see what they are. But he can’t paint for that reason.

“I have to listen to my heart. It’s where I am right now. I’ve never felt richer in my heart. But I’m poorer than I’ve ever been.”

Yvonne Coomber

Solo Exhibition Art5 Gallery is delighted to announce Yvonne Coomber’s first ever solo show in Sussex, exhibiting a brand new collection of her vibrant signature florals, as well as exclusively unveiling an exciting new style!

Yvonne’s love of nature deeply influences and flows through her work. Much of her early years were spent travelling to gain knowledge and understanding of the world she wished to portray. A pivotal moment in Yvonne’s artistic journey was spent with a horse-drawn community in England, exploring sacred and forgotten parts of the land.

After gaining a degree in Philosophy and Literature at Brighton University, she went on to study fine art in Sussex, furthering her artistic ability and immersion into the world of painting.

Yvonne often paints from within the depths of the Devonshire meadows to draw immediate inspiration from the picturesque surroundings. She captures the chaotic yet

harmonious energy within nature, whilst simultaneously bringing warmth and joy to the canvas. The various materials Yvonne uses beautifully unite to create layers of tactile texture. The glitter, reminiscent of early morning dew, the vibrant colours conjuring the kaleidoscopic palette of the countryside, and the delicate scattering of flowers come together organically in her unique artistic vision.

“We’re very excited to be hosting the first solo exhibition of acclaimed artist Yvonne Coomber, whose work is becoming increasingly sought-after. Her paintings embrace the beauty of the natural world and emanate pure joy and wonder”, Gallery owner Paola Calise remarks.

Come and see this exclusive exhibition and lose yourself in Yvonne’s vision of nature as a magical wonderland!

Yvonne Coomber Solo Show is a free exhibition running from 8th until 16th March.

Art5 Gallery 5 Bartholomews Brighton BN1 1HG 01273 774 222 info@art5gallery.com art5gallery.com

THE TASTE OF TOURISM

Travel by Phoebe Oliver

Spring is here and with Brighton Food Festival round the corner it is time to turn our heads to gastro-tourism. We can’t be the only ones who have noticed suddenly that friends and family, when listing the various draws to their chosen holiday destination, have suddenly started citing “we have heard the food there is amazing” at the top of the list.

Tuscany Here we explore some of the best places for foodie travel across the globe, but we are extremely lucky that we are producing some fantastic food and drink right on our doorstep.

The Brighton Food Festival ‘Spring Harvest’ (April 17 – 27), which kicks off over the weekend of Good Friday and Easter Saturday (18-19 April), sees the festival take over in the seafront’s Hove Lawns, with the huge free entry to Sussex & The World Market featuring around 100 stalls, the Live Food Show and the Children’s Food Festival. New additions for 2014 include the Mixology Rum Shack with DJ and cocktail masterclasses, and tutored tastings presented

by Discover the Origin, of Bourgogne Wines, Parma Ham, Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese, Port and Douro Wines. There will also be a special tasting presentation hosted by wine expert, TV presenter and newspaper columnist Olly Smith. In addition to the main weekend, there are lots of affordable tastings and dinners across the week including The Three Chefs supper at Drakes, Brighton Food Trail, the Big Sussex Market on New Road, Churchill Square Live Food Kitchen and the Rockinghorse Children’s Easter Egg Hunt in Royal Pavilion Gardens.

Go to brightonfoodfestival.com to book tickets and for more information

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- Culture|travel -

Seafood in Olhao, Portugal The coastal town of Olhão in the Algarve, Portugal is an up and coming gastro hotspot.

Olhão is not a typical ‘tourist’ town, it is the largest fishing port in the Algarve and home to one of the area’s busiest food markets.

There are a multitude of restaurants and cafés that line the seafront promenade and are simple affairs that cater for the local population as well as tourists (mainly Portuguese though) with delicious fresh fish dishes - including grilled sardines, monkfish stews, clams with pork and tuna steaks, not to mention octopus and squid. The Portuguese wine, Vinho Verde (meaning ‘young wine’)goes perfectly with fish and is available readily – and cheaply – pretty much

Olhao everywhere. Olhão itself is a picturesque town full of character with Moorish-style houses, an influence from the commercial links with Africa. It does not have a beach itself, but the lagoon islands and beaches of Armona, Culatra and Farol can be reached by regular ferry.

Stay at The Real Marina Hotel & Spa in Olhão from £58 per room per night based on two sharing in April 2014.

To book, go to www.real-marina.com or call (+351) 289 091 300

A Foodie trek across India India specialists Ampersand Travel provide a foodie tour which is like no other and offers a true feast for the mind. Hosted by passionate Indian food historian, Jonty Rajagopolan, the 13-day culinary journey sees food lovers travel with Jonty from the food of the streets to the kitchens of the Kings between the cities of Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Calcutta and Hyderabad, experiencing a way of life where every meal is a celebration of life itself and in turn learning the art of living to eat. Along the way, Jonty reveals a fresh insight into how food is so closely connected and influenced by both the country’s religion and culture but also highlights how each region’s character comes into its own in the kitchen. Highlights of the trip include a visit to the Golden Temple at Amritsar and some of India’s finest spice and vegetable markets as well as being welcomed into local village homes for a traditional feast.

A series of scheduled tours are on offer throughout 2014 but can also be individually tailored for private groups.

Ampersand Travel offers the 13-day Art of Living to Eat tour from £5,860 per person based on two sharing and including international flights, domestic flights in India, accommodation in some of the country’s finest hotels, all meals, activities, entrances, road transport and tour leader plus a daily gift.

To book, go to www.ampersandtravel.com or call (0)20 7819 9770

Tuscany

Olive Oil, Wine and Cheese Tasting Holiday, Tuscany, Italy In the grounds of a wonderful Agriturismo are two beautiful farmhouses set 1.5km apart in the Tuscan hills offering the perfect location in which to pursue your passion for all things Italian.

Just 40km from Pisa, this Tuscan cookery holiday offers a unique opportunity to discover Italian life where families work together on the estate to produce olive oil and wines using organic and traditional farming methods. Under the direction of your knowledgeable guides, you will learn about the local olive oil and wine production process and taste the end product for yourself. You will visit one of the local organic cheese farms which, surrounded by a unique landscape, specializes in the production of fully organic cheese, from fresh ricotta to ripened pecorino.

This is a wonderful introduction to Tuscany’s rich culture of wine, olive oil and cheese set in the beautiful and relaxing surroundings, a must for any food and wine enthusiast.

GoLearnTo.com offer the cheese, wine and olive oil tasting holiday from £409 per person for 4 days and three nights. Minimum 2 people.

To book, go to www.golearnto.com or call 08456250445

India

Oliver Relations is a Brighton-based PR agency specialising in the travel and tourism sectors. For more information on how we can help your business receive the exposure it deserves, call us on 01273 818112 or visit www.oliverrelations.co.uk

- Culture|travel -

March 2014

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Hurstpierpoint College

... engaging minds, encouraging excellence, shaping futures

Hurst Hurstpierpoint College

Pre-Prep | Prep | Senior School | Sixth Form

We invite you to find out what Hurst can offer your child OPEN MORNINGS SATURDAY 15TH MARCH & 10TH MAY 2014 Outstanding education for girls and boys aged 4 to 18 years Hurstpierpoint College Hurstpierpoint West Sussex BN6 9JS

www.hppc.co.uk

Admissions 01273 836936

Director, Playwright, PuPil February at Hurstpierpoint College brought with it Hurst in Rep and the opportunity for pupils and visitors to watch two student directed productions in one week.

currently in his first year of A level study, has a

each member of the cast playing two parts

rare talent, and his play, The Grass is Greener,

to depict complementary storylines, but

received rave reviews from its enthusiastic

expressing them in vastly different ways.

This year one of the productions was not

this play came from the pen of a 16 year old.

only directed by a student but written by

Similarly the direction was strong and the

him too. 16 year old Horatio Gould, who is

students adeptly brought his words to life,

audiences.

Horatio said; “The path I hope to take in the

The Grass is Greener presents two parallel

future has been made clear to me through

stories with moments reminiscent of Oscar

the joy of working with such a talented cast

Wilde, Jonathan Glazer and Woody Allen.

and the exhilaration of seeing my words

It illustrates the similarities in relationships

come to life. I would like to thank Hurst

and behaviour between groups of friends

for providing me with the opportunity to

in different strata of society and manages

express myself artistically through The Grass

to balance great humour with aggression

is Greener.”

which is uncomfortable to watch. Horatio’s intense writing conveys its story clearly and with great maturity; it is hard to believe that

At Hurst the pupils take on the Hurst Cultural Challenge which expects them, amongst other things, ‘to make the right things happen for you and everyone else’.

Horatio certainly met the challenge on this occasion!

conveys its story clearly and with great “Horatio’s intense writingmaturity. ”

- EDUCATION -

MARCH 2014

│87

Institute of Development studies OK, so what does international development have to do with your average Absolute reader?

Never mind that, what is “international development”, how does it affect all of us, and why is it interesting?

Tax. You’ve probably heard about the “Robin

shows that the facts fall somewhere in

Hood Tax”—the idea of taxing financial flows

between. If the government is weak or lacks

at very low rates to help tackle poverty here

integrity, ordinary people will suffer from

and abroad. Well, IDS research showed that

the Land Grab. Where the government is

what we really need is a Panic Tax, something

responsible and responsive, they probably will

that taxes the speed of financial flows, a

benefit.

I’m writing this article to try to pique your

markets and raise funds for those who are

interest in what my organization, the Institute

the worst hit by financial turbulence, hence a

of Development Studies (IDS) which is based

Panic Tax (catchier than Keep Calm and Carry

here, on your doorstep, in Brighton. We are

On, don’t you think?).

completely passionate about ending global

bit like a resistor that regulates the flow of electricity. We found that it is not the only the size of the flows that contributed to the financial crash of 2007-8, but the speed of the flows. So a tax to discourage panic buying and selling of stocks and shares can stabilize

Food. Did you hear about the big NGO IF campaign last year and the concert in Hyde Park? That was all about global hunger and malnutrition. One in 3 kids on our planet are malnourished. Do you remember the tragic case of Hamza Khan from last year? He was the child whose mummified body was found under a pile of rubbish in his cot. He was 5 and yet he was found in jumpsuit for an 18 month old toddler. He was starved, not

Land. You may also have heard about “Land

taken to the doctor and not cared for. There

Grabs” – the buying up of thousands of

are 170 million of these kids in the world.

square miles of land in Africa and elsewhere

But unlike Hamza, their parents can’t afford to

by wealthy countries and companies to

take care of their kids and their governments

programme, UKAID.

secure supply chains. Many say this is

don’t recognize the problem. Our research

terrible—it’s ripping off poor countries,

helps to give these kids a voice in the world

Let’s start with tax and move on to land,

while many say it’s a windfall investment that

of decision makers. For example, we are

food, drugs and sex.

wouldn’t happen otherwise. Our research

working with the Children’s Investment Fund

poverty. How can a research organization do that? It’s simple, we do the analysis that drives people like Oxfam, Save the Children and the Government’s overseas development

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MARCH 2014

- EDUCATION -

Photos: Games in an urban slum, Copyright: VL Alvaro/IDS

We are completely passionate “ about ending global poverty. ” Foundation, one of the largest in the UK, to

over the world, those in power attempt to

ways we could not have previously imagined.

advise them on how to spend $700 million

legitimize this denial of rights by encoding it

But shouldn’t the money from UK AID be

over the next 7 years to turn this situation

in law in countries as diverse as India, South

spent on these issues here in the UK? It’s

around.

Africa, Thailand and Uganda.

a valid question and one that is difficult to

Drugs. Sadly, as residents of Brighton and

Taxes, land, food, drugs and sex. IDS does

Hove, we are all too familiar with the

research on the fundamental human issues

problems of drug addiction and abuse. The

that matter to people all over the world.

big debate in drug enforcement is whether

We do the research that fuels the legislation,

to reduce demand, reduce supply or

the policy initiatives for the charities and the

decriminalize the non-class A drugs. But did

media attention that makes positive change

you know that the drug control policies often

happen. That is international development.

don’t work to reduce supply and even worse,

But it is also relevant to development in

they make poverty worse by ruining fields,

Brighton and the UK. When food prices

damaging roads and markets and sowing

shoot up, children in poor families suffer the

fear and distrust in previously closely knit

most. When banks default, tax rates increase.

communities.

When drug enforcement is destructive it

Sex. As a final example of the work we do, think about sexuality. Go on. The Winter Olympics is shining a light on sexual rights in Russia. But our research on the

risks fuelling the problem. When land is bought without due process we all feel

answer in value for money terms. It’s better to answer it in terms of values. How do we want to be seen in the world? If a pound can buy a month’s supply of vitamins for a baby in Bangladesh or a bag of Haribos in Brighton, where is that money best spent?

These are not easy questions. There are no easy answers. The UK government says it is willing to spend slightly more than half a penny in the pound on it. It doesn’t feel like much to make a big difference to the lives of millions of people in the wider world and, in the process, help us to solve problems closer to home.

disempowered. When our friends are beaten

Lawrence Haddad, IDS

up for being different we all die a little.

www.ids.ac.uk Brighton BN1 9RE

legislation that denies lesbian, gay bisexual

In this day and age, we are all inter-connected

and transgender individuals their rights shows

as never before and issues in the far-flung

how pervasive the fear of difference is. All

corners of the world now affect all of us in

- EDUCATION -

MARCH 2014

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