Luxe November/December 2015

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ISSUE 37 NOV/DEC15

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ISSUE 37 NOV/DEC15

G AR D E N I N G W I T H O Z ’ S B E ST W I N E S. C R A F T I N G XM A S .

G O L F. Dre a m c a r s .

D UCH ES S OF NORTH UMB ER L AND . Food Hall finery.

Fl amboyant f l o ral s . F ES TIV E CULTUR E . Party dresses.

Soc i al gat her i ngs . V INEYARD H OTEL . Beauty buys.

R ES TAUR ANTS . Bi g names . LUX E.

WHERE SOLD

Top Sportmax

Trousers MSGM

Shoes Russell & Bromley

Bag Marc by Marc Jacobs

WELCOME

contents 14>> Do This ISSUE 37 NOV/DEC15 Currently the desk in front of me is home to some artisan gin, a chunky tub of cashews and a bottle of whisky. Eyes right to some furry earmuffs and left to something in jazzy wrapping paper.

We’re developing the knack of having a gourmet cheese straw or some such artisan pastry within reach at all times.

All I need now is a candle to let me inhale the seasonal vapours then we can consider our Christmas done and dusted and get ready to play it for real.

You may find yourself craftily inspired after reading through this edition of Luxe. Festive muffins to bake for Christmas morning, a dazzling rustic-chic wreath to pamper your door and I bet you will be dashing out to get your hands on a stencil roller and brown paper once you’ve seen Jane Day’s magical touch with them.

You can go as far as you like with the ‘I made it myself’ Christmas I don’t do the cooking thing but I like to wrap with gusto in the company of a sherry and a schmaltzy festive CD. The food pleasures I will leave to the new Food Hall at Fenwick.

My God, Christmas joy to all!

Frosty and festive fun

28>> Grace & Gardens The Alnwick masterplan

36>> Food Joy A trip to Fenwick Food Hall

42>> Off to Oz Life, work, wine

50>> Frocks Festive Sparkle time party people

67>> Beauty Bling Pick of the perfect presents

72>> Inspiring florals Oz Clarke is the wine man we’d all like to hole up in a bar with. He will be sipping with the best of us in Newcastle this month and was great to chat to about wine and such a lot more.

His luxe things include: Woozy Saturday afternoons in the pub after a big walk: Golf in the Pyrenees: A designer sales bargain.

Deck the halls with cool

76>> Calm Christmas Laid-back winter loveliness

82>> Luxe Local A day in the Dales

88>> Stay&Sip A luxurious vineyard hotel

100>> Social Diary What the Luxe people have been up to

Don’t forget to clock in with us every Thursday for our lively must-read Luxe Loves The Weekend email bulletin.

Sign up free at www.luxe-magazine.co.uk/theweekend Kathryn Armstrong, editor kathryn@remembermedia.co.uk Twitter: TheLuxeMagazine

THE LUXE TEAM Christopher March publisher chris@remembermedia.co.uk EDITORIAL Kathryn Armstrong editorial director kathryn@remembermedia.co.uk Jessica Laing Elysia Agnew SALES Lisa Anderson director lisa@remembermedia.co.uk Debi Coldwell director debi@remembermedia.co.uk

We get some seasonal interiors inspiration from Jane Day who does things in a natural, calming way, something that is reflected in her luxe things in life: My caravan, to travel to wonderful places on a whim: Any new dress from Cos such a treat: A walk along Runswick Bay with my family at any time of the year.

PHOTOGRAPHY Kevin Gibson info@kgphotography.co.uk Nicky Rogerson nicky@nrphotography.co.uk Chris Auld chris@chrisauldphotography.com DESIGN Remember Media If you wish to advertise with us please contact our sales team: Lisa Anderson: lisa@remembermedia.co.uk / 07734 560565 or Debi Coldwell: debi@remembermedia.co.uk / 07910 918366

Remember Media Ltd, e.volve Centre, Cygnet Way, Rainton Bridge South, DH4 5QY remembermedia.co.uk All contents copyright ©2015 RememberMedia Ltd. All rights reserved. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, no responsibility can be accepted for inaccuracies, howsoever caused. No liability can be accepted for illustrations, photographs, artwork or advertising materials while in transmission or with the publisher or their agents. All information is correct at time of going to print, November 2015.

Rhys McKinnell has been a busy man bringing us all food heaven with the opening of the swanky new Food Hall in Fenwick. His luxe things: My lovely wife Catherine and our three young children: Restaurants - running them is great fun, eating in them is even better: A day at the coast - Newton-by-theSea, the ultimate weekend activity.

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LUXE LOVES

LUXE LOVES Watching 007 We clocked Daniel’s lovely timepiece watching Spectre, the 24th James Bond film. Omega do their own version of Q, creating a limited edition Seamaster Aqua Terra 150M model inspired by the Bond family coat of arms, which is interlocked on the blue dial and connected to the tip of the yellow second hand.

A limited edition of 15,007, the number engraved on the case back. £4,630. Won’t blow up a baddie though. www.marketcrossjewellers.com

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The Christmas Fayre 19th - 22nd November 2015 BOOK TICKETS ONLINE

The Spirit of Christmas Explore The Gardens before heading to The Grand Marquee, housing exhibitors selling the finest artisan gifts. Browse our new outdoor Christmas Market filled with heavenly scents of mulled wine and gingerbread before experiencing the magic of the Hall.

This year’s Christmas Fayre is set to be the biggest yet - huge! With 150 gift stalls, more space to shop and relax, two on-site cafés, a Champagne nail bar and space to enjoy Afternoon Tea. Thursday 19th November, 5.30pm-9pm (Exclusive preview evening, tickets only)

Friday 20th & Saturday 21st November, 10am-5pm Sunday 22nd November, 10am-4pm

ADVANCE ONLINE TICKETS £4 / ON THE DOOR £5

View more Christmas events at www.wynyardhall.co.uk Wynyard Hall, Tees Valley, TS22 5NF | Tel: 01740 644811

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LUXE LIFE

MARTHA KELLY

Martha Kelly, 17, joined the family business h2o Bathroom Design Company, Team Valley from school last year. She lives in Whitley Bay with her parents, brother Sam and sister Ellie. She likes keeping fit and spending time with her boyfriend Richard.

She regularly visits her local beauticians and loves mini shopping sprees including the cinema in her spare time with friends LUXE PEOPLE >> Richard, Poppy and my best friends Lauren and Phoebe.

LUXE PLACES >> For a weekend > Edinburgh, I love the shops, the Christmas market and ‘Old Town Chambers’ a lovely boutique apartment on the Royal Mile.

A Long holiday > Family holiday with my lot is always Côte d’Azur and Florida with Richard, my boyfriend, and his family.

A treat > Center Parcs, every new year. Having three sisters, a brother, two brothers-in-law, Richard and Poppy my niece, it’s always full on.

LUXE RELAX >> Best Food > I am obsessed with Chinese food! I love nothing better than having a Saturday night Chinese with the family watching X-Factor!

Best Wine > I don’t drink.

Favourite restaurant > Peace and Loaf, Mum and Dad are big fans and take us regularly for the Sunday roast.

Perfect weekend > Paris. Richard and I are going just before Xmas. A bit of Eiffel Tower and a visit to DisneyLand.

Best telly > Hollyoaks after work with my little sister. I also enjoy some American series on Netflix, I am currently watching Pretty Little Liars.

Best Book > The Fault In Our Stars, John Green Best sounds > I like most songs that are in the charts! I am currently listening to Ella Eyre’s new album ‘Feline’, which I am obsessed with!

LUXE SHOP >> Best shopping city > Edinburgh. The family always make a visit early December to do some Christmas shopping. It also has the closest Burberry store which is also a bonus!

Favourite shop > For clothing, I tend to shop at Topshop and H&M. 80% of my wardrobe is from Topshop. For shoes, I love shopping at Kurt Geiger and online on ASOS. Luxe retail retreat > When I want to treat myself, I tend to shop online on Tommy Hilfiger or Ralph Lauren. I just recently bought some Ralph Lauren trainers.

Best buy > Earlier this year I visited Edinburgh with Richard just after my birthday and bought myself a Black Michael Kors bag. I adore it, I take it everywhere!

LUXE PARTY >> A memorable night out > This night out hasn’t happened yet but in January we are planning my 18th birthday party.

Hopefully I will have my party at ‘As You Like It’ in Jesmond where we always have our staff parties, I will have all my friends and family there. Afterwards a night out in Newcastle.

I can’t wait.

Perfect Party > I love summer parties. Having a BBQ in the garden with friends is always fun.

Best outfit > I have recently bought a little black dress from Ted Baker, I am yet to wear it for a special occasion. On a normal day I like to wear jeans and a nice top and heels. If I am not wearing heels, I wear pumps, my favourite pumps are my Vivienne Westwood ones.

Dinner date > If I am not having a dinner and a night at the cinema with Richard, I wouldn’t say no to a date with Brooklyn Beckham!

YOUR LUXE THING IN LIFE >> Just passed my driving test so ‘Pearl’ my Ford Ka.

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Stay in >> go out >> enjoy It’s a very going-out time of year. Elysia Agnew tracks down some frosty, funky and festive things to do FROM NOVEMBER Inspired by the Ashington Group ‘Pitmen Painters’, the brand new exhibition ‘Ashington District Star’ comes to the Woodhorn Museum. Julian Germain’s photographic journal celebrates how Ashington’s miners explored their culture and their surroundings through the medium of visual art. Julian Germain’s project offers a photographic, contemporary view of life in Ashington.

Capturing the essence of everyday life from around the kitchen table and at the local fish shop, to time spent at the allotment and the dangerous world of the coal face, this exhibition is centred on Ashington’s community and its photographic portrayal over time.

The Ashington Group is now celebrated worldwide and has inspired the works of playwrights such as Lee Hall who wrote ‘Billy Elliot’ and ‘Pitmen Painters’ based on the group’s work.

Julian Germain’s show marks the end of an 18-month project recreating the Ashington Group’s paintings into contemporary scenes. Exhibition highlights includes images such as ‘Fish and Chips’ and ‘The Christmas Tree’. A must see exhibition that will inspire and educate! www.experiencewoodhorn.com

12-15 NOVEMBER Durham’s Lumiere Festival 2015 will turn your dark nights into a dazzling display of light this November. The impressive event brings festive light to the North East for the fourth time since it’s opening in 2009. Originally a one-off light show produced by Artichoke, the festival hosted every two years has grown into the UK’s largest celebration of light.

As the nights draw in this winter, artists from across the globe gather to light up the sky with their spectacular illuminated instalments. From a rainbow river and a garden of light, to neon bikes and the story of the universe, the many installations will illuminate the city at this year’s electrifying event.

This November, one very special installation is set to highlight the Cloister of Durham Cathedral. The Litre of Light will showcase a life-size Rose Window made entirely from recycled plastic bottles. Local artist Mick Stephenson calls for the help of local schools to ‘grow the Rose’ by donating plastic bottles and to two worthy charities at the same time, My Shelter Foundation and Durham Cathedral itself.

Set in Durham’s most iconic and scenic locations, this year’s Lumiere Festival promises to light up the dark skies with a spectacular array of light here in the North East this November. www.lumiere-festival.com

THROUGHOUT NOVEMBER & DECEMBER Fenwick brings the magic of Christmas to you every year. Now’s your chance to discover how these magical moments have been created over the years.

An exhibition charts the journey through the Fenwick Christmas window displays, giving viewers the chance to see what goes on behind the scenes. www.discoverymuseum.org.uk

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Shrek the musical is taking ‘ogre’! Our favourite big green giant stomps into Wearside this November. Straight from London to Sunderland Empire. A full line-up of fairy-tale characters, tap-dancing rats, a low-flying dragon and a hilariously funny donkey sidekick, it promises to be an evening of fun and fits of laughter. www.atgtickets.com

THROUGHOUT NOVEMBER & DECEMBER

16 NOVEMBER Newton Faulkner is set to share his brand new studio album ‘Human Love’ at Middlesbrough Town Hall this November.

He has released three Top 10 selling albums since his hit debut album ‘Hand Built By Robots’ was released in 2007.

A new and exclusive show. www.middlesbroughtownhallonline.co.uk

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The Laing Art Gallery hosts two exciting new solo exhibitions by PhD candidates throughout November and December. Fine Art PhD students, Lyn Hagan and Alysia Anne will showcase their work. ‘The Mexican Mafia and Me’ by Lyn Hagan tells the story of Lyn’s exchange with pen-pal Tony, a Mexican mafia hitman who is currently serving a life sentence in San Quentin State Prison. Sharing an interest in drawing, Lyn has sent Tony cartoon drawings to enlighten and pass his time on death row. An insightful exhibition sharing their three-year correspondence.

Alysia Anne’s ‘Shift’ is centred on themes of loss and grief through photographic practice.

This intriguing installation provides a space for reflection and consideration as visitors can see the corruption of grief in her expressive work. laingartgallery.org.uk

NOVEMBER

Learn all there is to know about our favourite feathered friends at Northumberlandia this November. The ‘Wildlife Watch Brilliant Birds’ event will educate children aged 5-12 on how these birds prepare themselves for their winter journeys. A creative workshop will be included where you will make your own bird feeder to take home for Christmas. www.nwt.org.uk

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NOV/DEC15

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NOVEMBER

Join the team at Blackfriars for a Canapés & Christmas event this November. Enjoy a fun and interactive session with one of Blackfriars’ top chefs. You will also learn how easy it is to prepare mouth-watering micro-morsels, perfect for the party season. A selection of delicious refreshments will be provided, along with a set lunch, wine and coffee. A truly delicious affair. www.blackfriarsrestaurant.co.uk

OUR VIEW POST THE SUMMER SELL OFF Traditionally speaking, the summer months of the year are a time of slow news flow and low liquidity. This year has become an exception to the norm as a combination of low commodity prices, fears over Global growth and uncertainty in China weighed on investors’ minds. In Europe we have also seen uncertainty in Greece regarding its debt negotiations with Europe and whether a ‘Grexit’ would come to surface. Since the beginning of May (to 29 September) the FTSE 100 has fallen -15% whilst in the US the S&P and Dow Jones have both fallen by -11.5% and -12.5% respectively, Europe has fallen by 19% and Asia and Emerging Markets by over 20%.

We have been defensively positioned in portfolios to mitigate such downward trends having been fearful from the turn of the year over a number of issues. These included a fairly obvious belief that Syriza being elected in Greece had a high potential for fallout and conscious that global growth numbers even then did not quite support frothy risk asset valuations. Initially these were non-consensus views with markets generally ignoring the potential risks. The ongoing underweight (u/w) position to equities (with the exception of Japan where we maintained an overweight position and short Yen exposure) has been justified as we have escaped the brunt of the aforementioned sell off. Japan has been the best performing equity year-to-date, returning +0.7% in local currency.

There is the possibility that equity markets continue their recent weakness and whilst prices are now lower, analyst forecasts have been cut aggressively for the future and on a forward looking price to earnings basis you can argue they are more expensive than when at higher levels. Markets however are fickle beasts and having protected on the downside it would be heartbreaking not to participate in any full or part recovery should one happen. Moving forward therefore, we feel now is a time to move to an equalweight position in all equity geographies, with the exception of Japan where we will retain an overweight. We continue to have faith in ‘Abenomics’ and the Three Arrows policies and believe that policy makers and the Bank of Japan will act soon to reinforce their strategy. Increasing equity exposure in general means reducing the overweight position we have held in property for the last two years or so and reducing absolute return positions. Property is in our view trading around fair value. However, it does not quite represent the opportunity it has done in recent years but nevertheless remains more attractive than fixed income generically.

Our fixed income positions have inflicted some pain during the summer, as a result of holding more sub investment grade credit than the benchmark. In an asset class that is not really offering much reward (yield) in exchange for the medium and long term capital risks (interest rate rises) we are happy to suffer short term sentiment risks in exchange for a better medium term return. The ever growing strength in the US dollar is also something to be wary of. Emerging Market debt may seem attractive in terms of headline yields but there is a possibility of default due to US dollar denominated loans inflating in local currency terms. It is possible to avoid defaulting names but not to avoid the contagion such events create so this remains an area we monitor rather than favour.

28 NOVEMBER The Joe Cornish Gallery in Northallerton will host the annual ‘Christmas Cracker’ event unveiling four new prints ahead of the festive season. His seasonal winter prints will also be on display alongside his permanent collection celebrating the very best of the North York Moors. www.joecornishgallery.co.uk

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Hugh Cornwell will join the Whitley Bay audience at the PLAYHOUSE for an acoustic show this November. One of the UK’s finest singer-songwriters, expect Stranglers classics songs such as Peaches, Golden Brown, Nice N’ Sleazy, No More Heroes, Always the Sun and many more. After leaving the band in 1990, he has released several solo albums that he will share on an evening of music and memories. www.playhousewhitleybay.co.uk

28 NOVEMBER – 2 JANUARY The yellow brick road fetches Dorothy and co to the Northern Stage this winter in a whirlwind of modern day adventure through the wonderful world of Oz. Swapping her ruby slippers for trainers, Dorothy sets off on a journey to the Technicolor Land of Oz. In just one day, the girl from Kansas city revolutionises an entire nation, bringing freedom and colour. www.northernstage.co.uk

THROUGHOUT NOVEMBER & DECEMBER

John Dance is CEO and Chief Investment Officer at Vertem Asset Management. The Gresham, 92 Osborne Road, Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 2TD. Call 0191 341 0280 or email johnd@vertem.co.uk Visit www.vertem.co.uk

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BALTIC offers up a brand new collection of prints by Glasgow-based artist Martin Boyce. ‘Always Fall’ is a limited edition woodcut collection. His sculptural installations capture familiar objects and public spaces to form fragmented landscapes. Inspired by furniture, lighting and architecture as a whole, experiencing his work has been compared to a suspended narrative. www.shop.balticmill.com

29 NOVEMBER Give your home cool festive attitude with a stunningly stylish wreath inspired by florist to the stars, Adam Prest. Dubbed the ‘North’s hippest florist’ by the Sunday Times, County Durham born Adam will be hosting a hands-on Christmas Wreath making workshop with afternoon tea at Auckland Castle, Bishop Auckland, on 29 November, between 2pm-4pm. Release those creative juices and learn some seasonal tricks of the trade. Tickets, £35 per person, include afternoon tea and all materials, and can be booked by calling 01388 743 797. www.aucklandcastle.org

NOV/DEC15

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13-14 DECEMBER

Make the most of the dark skies at this fun and informal stargazing event at Hamsterley Forest. Resident astronomer, Simon Rowland will educate and enlighten visitors on all there is to know about the stars above.

Seeing things you’ve never seen before, you will leave feeling impressed and inspired about outer space. www.forestry.gov.uk/hamsterleyforest

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THROUGHOUT NOVEMBER & DECEMBER The DLI museum welcomes the brand new exhibition ‘In Memoriam’, commemorating those who fought for King and Country.

Taking artefacts and combining them with expressive poems from WW1, Francesca Dent creates an extremely thought-provoking project. With a collection of medals, weapons and soldier’s possessions, taking viewers on a journey through the horrific conditions experienced by servicemen in The Great War. www.dlidurham.org.uk

DECEMBER

After the release of their 14th studio album, Paper Gods, Duran Duran grace the stage of the Metro Radio Arena this December. The multi-platinum superstars, fronted by Simon Le Bon and featuring keyboardist Nick Rhodes, bassist John Taylor and drummer Roger Taylor celebrate the brand new music of the band responsible for classics like, Rio, Ordinary World and Hungry Like The Wolf. www.metroradioarena.co.uk

8 DECEMBER Almost 170 years on, Charlotte Brontë’s best-loved story of a woman’s fight for freedom returns. Brought up as a deprived orphan, Jane Eyre faces a life of injustice, poverty and betrayals as she makes the ultimate decision to follow her heart. Director Sally Cookson brings back our favourite literary heroin in this single emotional performance at Customs House. www.customshouse.co.uk

12 DECEMBER You’re invited to the most rock ’n’ roll Christmas party there is this year in the North East. Dynamic performer Mary Jean combines Country, Rock ‘n’ Roll and Western Swing for your festive enjoyment. An up close and personal look at her Americana retro-roots music from the soft vintage country sounds to the toe-tappers. www.live.org.uk

UNTIL JANUARY

Explore the Arts & Crafts movement and its impact on the North East. The Laing Art Gallery’s autumn exhibition looks at Arts & Crafts houses in the North East such as National Trust properties Cragside and Wallington.

The Arts & Crafts Movement revolutionised attitudes to design in the late 19th century and was heavily influenced by the work and ideas of William Morris and John Ruskin.

This exhibition will look at how, in the North East in particular, there was a conscious desire to integrate industrial progress with an equivalent cultural and artistic revolution.

‘The Arts & Crafts House: Then and Now’ features objects on loan from the National Trust in the North East and a series of photographs of Lindisfarne Castle and garden from the Country Life Archive.

Celebrated designers and collaborators such as Edwin Lutyens and Gertrude Jekyll, Alfred and Louise Powell, the Barnsley Brothers and Ernest Gimson will be explored in the exhibition. www.laingartgallery.org.uk

<< MAKING A NOISE IN MIDDLESBROUGH >> 17 NOVEMBER BBC Radio 2’s Folk Singer of the Year, Nancy Kerr graces the stage of Middlesbrough Town Hall this season. The award-winning artist has a rare style and has recently drawn comparisons to William Blake in her use of folk mythology as a backdrop for contemporary narratives about love, conflict and political tensions. In this entertaining and truly inspirational show, Nancy will be backed by Tom Wright, Rowan Rheingans, Greg Russell and Tim Yates. www.middlesbroughtownhallonline.co.uk

20 NOVEMBER 9, 10 & 11 DECEMBER Our very own South Shields-born comic returns to the North East for another smash-hit show this December.

Sarah Millican brings her brand new show ‘Outsider’ to Middlesbrough Town Hall. www.middlesbroughtownhallonline.co.uk

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Telly favourite, Milton Jones takes on Teesside in his exciting new show, ‘Milton Jones… And The Temple of Daft’. Known for his appearances on Mock the Week, Live at the Apollo and Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow, this hilariously entertaining show is a must for this season’s social calendar. www.middlesbroughtownhallonline.co.uk

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<< FESTIVE FUN >> Snowy skies, enchanted parks and warm, fuzzy moments

THROUGHOUT NOVEMBER & DECEMBER (FROM 13 NOVEMBER) With a mix of contemporary art, craft and design work, The Biscuit Factory welcomes its Winter Exhibition featuring over 200 artists. Georgia McMaster will head up the exhibition with her striking oil paintings of birds, hares, stags and reindeer. A brand new collaboration with Craft Scotland will be featured this year, showcasing eight designer-makers from Scotland. From cushions and decorative homewares, to fashion pieces such as scarves and jewellery, there will be something to inspire everyone at this festive exhibition. www.thebiscuitfactory.com

19 NOVEMBER – 23 DECEMBER York’s festive fun kicks off on 19 November as the ultimate Christmas shopping experience ‘St Nicholas Fair’ opens with over 100 snug chalets selling bespoke crafts, gifts and foodie treats. The twinkling fairy lights will add some sparkle to Parliament Street this Christmas as you browse for the perfect stocking fillers and festive treats. www.visityork.org

21 NOVEMBER – 22 DECEMBER Northumberland’s very own Winter Wonderland at Kielder Water and Forest Park is a truly enchanting experience for all, this Christmas. The wintry fairy tale setting is transformed into a magical Winter Wonderland offering festive delights for all the family to enjoy. With snow tubing, elf workshops, reindeer, and skating, your day will be filled with festive family fun. www.kielderwinterwonderland.com

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Wynyard Hall’s Christmas Faye returns and promises to be bigger and better than ever before! Avoid the high street chaos and head to the hotel’s Grand Marquee, the Walled Gardens and the hall itself for the chance to snap up vintage jewellery, fashion, gifts and delicious locally sourced food. There will be live Christmas carols, mulled wine and afternoon tea offered as shoppers browse more than 150 stalls to find the perfect gifts this Christmas. www.wynyardhall.co.uk

30 NOVEMBER AND 2, 7, 8 & 9 DECEMBER Festive shoppers can look forward to snapping up some Christmas gifts and goodies at Lumley Castle’s jam-packed winter diary of events. Local suppliers and some big brands will help fill your stockings this Christmas at the castle’s shopping fayres.

The ‘Ladies of the Court’ will sing traditional carols for you to enjoy throughout the day. Afternoon tea and mulled wine will be available. www.lumleycastle.com

4, 5 & 6 DECEMBER Kick off your seasonal celebrations at Durham City’s Traditional Christmas Festival. Set around Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle, the popular event returns with an array of gift stalls alongside festive entertainment.

Regional food and drink producers will be in the Cloisters of Durham Cathedral serving up your favourite festive treats. The festival has something for all the family with live music, carol services, live reindeer and children’s entertainment provided throughout the festive weekend. www.thisisdurham.com

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FROM 11 DECEMBER Aladdin lands at the Sunderland Empire on his magic carpet this Christmas. Filled with colours and jewels, this gem of a pantomime is sure to entertain the entire family as you laugh, cry, dance and sing your way through the magical and mysterious journey of Jasmine and Aladdin.

With stunning costumes and lots of audience participation, this all singing-all dancing production is sure to be a hit this Christmas! www.atgtickets.com

DECEMBER

The magic of Christmas comes alive at Enchanted Parks, Saltwell Park. Step into a dream-like world of magical surprises this holiday season as the wintery wonderland celebrates its 10th anniversary. This fantasy land will have more surprises than ever before. Festive fun for all the family. www.newcastlegateshead.com

EVERY WEEKEND FROM 28 NOVEMBER TO 20 DECEMBER

18-20 DECEMBER

Fill your stockings with handpicked treasures at Alnwick Garden’s Christmas Market this year. Whilst festive shoppers can browse the stalls of unique, handmade and traditional gifts for their loved ones, there will be live carol singing and the chance to indulge in festive nibbles. www.alnwickgarden.com

Darkness falls. It’s twilight. It all sounds rather spooky but in fact, it’s the cosiest event there is this Christmas. Castle Howard opens its doors for a festive event filled with fairy lights, flickering candles, log fires and Father Christmas. Meet the reindeer and enjoy traditional carols around the Christmas tree at this Christmas Twilight opening. www.castlehoward.co.uk

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NOV/DEC15

ADVERTORIAL

Please sir – I want some more!

If you’ve ever been divorced and been frustrated that no one seems to believe you that your soon-to-be ex spouse is patently lying, deceitful, and manipulative, specifically when it comes to finances, then you may well have believed you had cause for celebration when the news recently featured the judgment of the Supreme Court in two high profile divorce cases, setting a precedent for divorce settlements to be reconsidered where one spouse has concealed assets or income.

The cases of Sharland and Gohil respectively, were different in terms of circumstances, the former being a long marriage with the parties’ assets comprising significant liquid capital and a company eventually floated on the stock market; the latter involved the husband being prosecuted and convicted of money laundering after financial settlement had been reached in divorce proceedings.

Notwithstanding the differing circumstances of each case, the ultimate judicial decisions have finally put beyond doubt the right of one party to reopen a matrimonial financial settlement if it can be shown that the other party failed to disclose financial information.

It has always been expressly required that both parties give full and frank disclosure of their financial circumstances within divorce financial proceedings.

These two cases reinforce that principle and confirm that the duty continues throughout legal proceedings right until the final Order is made and sealed by the Court.

In particular, this clarifies that an agreement reached by consent is not binding on either party until the terms

have been ratified by the Court in a formal Order.

Where there has been non-disclosure of financial assets by one party, the other party is entitled to apply to the Court in which the original Order was made to have that original Order set aside, even where the non-disclosure was unintentional or accidental.

The nature of divorce being what it is, it’s natural therefore to assume that these judgments will open the floodgates for wronged spouses to go back to Court to ask for their original financial Order to be reconsidered. Is that really the case though? It’s unlikely because there are a number of factors which potential applicants need to bear in mind: Critically, the applicant needs to be able prove that their former spouse lied in the course of the original proceedings. If the applicant has no actual evidence of this, then an application would be futile. In both the cases cited, the evidence was irrefutable. In the first case because the company actually floated some time after the divorce proceedings, and in the second because the husband was tried and convicted of money laundering and documents were ordered to be produced from the CPS. The second consideration must be whether the effect of such concealment (if proved) would make any material difference to the outcome of the original case. This may seem like a strange statement, but for many people with modest means, it is entirely possible that the Court would still make the same – or much the same – Order even knowing of the concealed assets because the value of those assets is not particularly or sufficiently great to make a difference. Remember also that the cost of making and pursuing the application may well outweigh the potential benefit of the final outcome.

Finally, a word to the wise: don’t play the Lottery during divorce proceedings, because if you win before your financial settlement is finalised by the Court, you will have a duty to disclose your winnings and for them to be taken into consideration. And yes, that duty extends even to a £10 win!

Joanne Major is the Principal at Major Family Law, the Divorce and Family Law Specialists, 12 West Road, Ponteland, Newcastle upon Tyne. T: 01661 82 45 82 www.majorfamilylaw.co.uk.

Twitter: @majorfamilylaw

Specialist divorce and family lawyers 01661 82 45 82 enquiries@majorfamilylaw.co.uk www.majorfamilylaw.co.uk

Image: Design for a wallpaper or textile showing birds among flowers by CFA Voysey (1857-1941). © RIBA Library Drawings Collection

THE ARTS & CRAFTS HOUSE

THEN AND NOW

10 October 2015 - 31 January 2016 Admission charges apply* Laing Art Gallery, New Bridge Street, Newcastle, NE1 8AG Tel: (0191) 278 1611 Textphone: 18001 0191 278 1611 Monument

www.laingartgallery.org.uk *Admission charges apply to this exhibition, please see website for details. Entry to the Laing Art Gallery is free but a donation is welcome.

Exhibition organised by Compton Verney

NOV/DEC15

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ADVERTORIAL

An ‘oar-some’ achievement Yarm School has recently completed the latest phase of an ambitious £30m redevelopment project, transforming the school site

Even from the first glimpse of Yarm School through the impressive new entrance, the beautiful landscaping and buildings are apparent, but only when you visit the school can you appreciate the impressive attention to detail and ambitious scale of the redevelopment project.

The new music school which opened in September, sits next to the Grade II-listed Friarage building and is linked to the existing school with a three-storey glass stairwell. This contemporary building blends beautifully with the historic Friarage and was thoughtfully designed by Associated Architects, the same firm behind the school’s award-winning Princess Alexandra Auditorium.

Housed inside the new music school are classrooms, 10 instrumental tuition rooms, a drumming suite and a high-tech recording studio. In addition, there is a 140-seat lecture theatre with cutting-edge designed retractable seating, making it a truly flexible performance venue.

Performing arts are thriving at Yarm, with many prep and senior school pupils taking centre stage in the numerous music concerts and plays held in the Princess Alexandra Auditorium, many of which are open to the whole community. The 750-seat auditorium was constructed as part of the previous phase of redevelopment in 2013 and was built to the standards of a professional concert hall.

There is an orchestra pit which accommodates a full orchestra, a bespoke 4-tier digital organ, and high-tech sound and lighting equipment.

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Located on the banks of a beautiful stretch of the River Tees, the addition of a state-of-the-art boathouse with floor to ceiling window affords stunning views over the river and surrounding countryside. Rowing is extremely popular at Yarm with well over 100 pupils involved in the sport and with role models like former pupil, the Olympian rower Kat Copeland, it is easy to understand why. The pupils enter rowing competitions all over the country with regular success, cementing Yarm’s reputation as one of the country’s top rowing schools.

The stunning new, ultra-modern boathouse sits on stilts, projecting towards the banks of the River Tees. It provides a training facility for rowers, changing rooms, offices and a viewing gallery for events on the river and the adjacent Astroturf pitch. It houses a dozen boats, including single sculls, fours and eights.

Adjacent to the boathouse is a new, floodlit, full-sized artificial hockey pitch which will accommodate 12 tennis courts in the summer months. Both facilities are expected to help cement Yarm School’s already impressive reputation in the world of sport. Young sportsmen and women from Yarm School regularly compete at the highest levels regionally, nationally and internationally.

Now on course to be part of the team at Rio in 2016, Kat Copeland took time out of her busy training schedule to open the boathouse and Astroturf pitch. As part of the celebrations current and former pupils took to the water for a race whilst a hockey match was played on the new Astroturf.

The impressive new facilities build on consistently high

results which top league tables for the area. In 2015, the school’s A-level A* rate of over 19% was more than double the national average and almost three times the North East average of 6.6%. At GCSE a fantastic 20% of all pupils achieved 9 or more A* grades.

The school offers a wide range of extra-curricular activities and believes strongly in the value of sport, music and drama, as well as academic achievement, all of which are nurtured by specialist teachers from nursery onwards.

The new facilities reinforce the school’s ethos of an all-round education.

Come and see the redevelopment at the next Open Morning on Saturday 9th January 2016, 10am to 12noon.

Entrance assessments will be held on Saturday 16th January 2016.

Yarm School, The Friarage, Yarm, TS15 9EJ (11-18 years) T: 01642 786023 Yarm Preparatory School, Grammar School Lane, Yarm, TS15 9ES (3-11 years) T: 01642 781447 www.yarmschool.org

NOV/DEC15

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ADVERTORIAL

Camels, crafts and Christmas joy South Tyneside lines up a memorable array of festive treats this winter

It’s not quite a case of when Santa came to the beach but certainly a South Tyneside Christmas packs a special seaside punch.

Sparkling fireworks, an unforgettable and dazzling Camel Parade, lovely festive lighting, fantastic gift fairs and special visits from Santa are just some of the events you can enjoy in South Tyneside, which will once again be transformed into a Christmas Wonderland.

The town centre and areas across the borough will be given their own festive sparkle and the beauty of this part of the region is that the opportunity for fun and a ‘blow the cobwebs’ walk is always there for the taking.

It gives South Tyneside its own holiday personality and the many parks and destinations in the borough will be shining bright with activities for all.

The magic starts to happen when the Christmas Wonderland gets into gear with the festive lights switch on events filled with carols and entertainment in the Borough’s three town centres: JARROW 20 NOVEMBER SOUTH SHIELDS 21 NOVEMBER HEBBURN 23 NOVEMBER There will be plenty of chances to buy crafts gifts and handmade jewellery when the annual Christmas Fair returns to Haven Point on 28-29 November. Music

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from local choirs and beautiful festive lighting will provide a backdrop to your Christmas shopping throughout the area while the Christmas Lights Switch On events are always lovely ‘get you in the mood’ occasions filled with carols and lots of entertainment.

Friday 4 December is a key date - it marks the unforgettable Camel Parade.

See the Three Wise Men on their camels, marvel at the talented street entertainers, enjoy some festive music and really soak up the atmosphere of Christmas.

This year’s Camel Parade will have a new route. Three Wise Men will lead a procession down the newly transformed Ocean Road along to Haven Point where there will be an assortment of family-friendly entertainment. Once we have said goodbye to the camels, enjoy even more entertainment and a fantastic fireworks display.

Visitors to the event, held in partnership with BBC Newcastle, will be wowed with a sensational firework display finale which will end the parade on a high.

Last year’s Christmas Wonderland proved extremely popular, with around 16,000 visitors enjoying the range of family friendly celebrations. Around 9,000 visitors were drawn to the big town centre ‘switch on’ events and to the Borough’s Christmas Fair. In addition to this, more than 6,000 people enjoyed St Hilda’s lights and the camel procession through South Shields Town Centre.

Saturday 5 December sees the Christmas Wonderland lighting in St Hilda’s Church Gardens, with its illuminated reindeer and sleigh, penguins, polar bears and

shimmering trees.

Other highlights include: Visits to the borough from Santa, Bede’s World’s Yule Festival, and the fun and mayhem of the traditional Christmas pantomime at The Customs House or the Westovian Theatre.

Nearby Souter Lighthouse will host Santa and plenty of children activities.

Don’t forget too that South Tyneside is a great place to eat and drink - not least the vibrant Ocean Road. There’s great shopping in the area and ample free parking in South Shields town centre.

This year’s Christmas Wonderland 2015 events programme has been organised by South Tyneside Council with support from Colmans fish and chips and Tyne and Wear Metro. More details of the events will be announced in the coming weeks.

For more information on Christmas in South Tyneside: 0191 424 7788 FB southtynesideevents @stynesideevents www.visitsouthtyneside.co.uk

NOV/DEC15

GRACIOUS GATE-KEEPER

Tea-dancing, tinsel and a big treehouse Alnwick Castle and Garden will be in the spotlight this festive season - on so many levels. Which is exactly how Jane Percy, Duchess of Northumberland likes it, as Kathryn Armstrong discovers

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NOV/DEC15

GRACIOUS GATE-KEEPER

Really, doesn’t everyone want to know if Jane Percy’s life is Downton Abbey-shaped?

The title, the castle, the privilege, the profile. The devoted dogs, lavish lawns, the Farrow and Ball-painted scullery?

A world of endless scones, visiting royalty, haughty staff and below-stairs shenanigans?

Ponder all we like on such things; this Duchess of Nothumberland wants to talk the very 21st century topics of bus drivers and loos, McDonalds and cannabis - a mix that would surely send the feisty Dowager Countess Grantham into a spin.

The imagined and real worlds of Alnwick and Downton are to collide again this festive season. In the Downton Abbey Christmas special, the Granthams will be heading to Northumberland for an outing to Brancaster Castle, a role ably played by Alnwick Castle in the TV series.

Filming took place in the summer and the Duchess admits she watched a few takes when the film crew was in town.

“Yes, I peeped from behind a curtain”, she laughs.

Will she and the family find themselves cosying up on the sofa come Christmas Day to see their home take centre stage in what will be Downton’s farewell screening watched by millions?

“We will be in Scotland not Alnwick, but yes, it will be watched”, she says.

Downton has shone a priceless spotlight on Alnwick Castle and brought a much-appreciated audience to both castle and the showcase Alnwick Garden.

And while a storyline in the current series exposes the Granthams’ distaste at the paying public being allowed inside Downton Abbey, this savvy Duchess couldn’t be more welcoming.

Her passion is to maximise the potential of small and big screen publicity to secure financial success for the castle and especially the garden, thus ensuring the future of charities she has created within it.

Yes, there’s been a Downton ‘bounce’ in terms of attracting visitors - but nothing compared to the bounce of the Harry Potter broomstick in terms of attracting visitors to the castle

NOV/DEC15

I knew what I was doing and who I was doing it for. I had to do what I said I was going to do so some people called that my ‘vanity garden’

that starred as Hogwarts in the highly successful movies.

Full of energy, the diminutive Duchess at 58 continues to capitalise on both with a vigour that puts paid to the oft-cited ‘vanity’ of her Alnwick Garden project. It is hard work convincing people to part with their millions or chasing an affluent market in China who she feels would love the opportunity to take over the castle for a weekend and call it their own.

“Any seasonal attraction makes most of the money in the summer but it is tough for the rest of the year. It is my job to get the money and make sure we have the attraction to bring people here. Our location on the A1 is really important.”

So important that we come to the subject of bus drivers and their loos.

The Duchess is planning to build an airport lounge-style ‘comfort stop’ for bus drivers, complete with Sky TV and good food so that Alnwick Garden will become the obvious stop-off on any journey.

There is good reason to do so this winter. The Garden will come to life more visibly than ever before with ‘A Christmas Tale’ transforming the grounds into a visual theatre with animations, projections, lighting and sound created by the duo behind the projections on Buckingham Palace during the Queen’s Jubilee.

Award-winning artists Ross Ashton and Karen Monid have created projections for Durham Lumiere and Illuminating York, projections onto Buckingham Palace during the Diamond Jubilee and the Houses of Parliament during the London Olympics of 2012.

Director Robin Morley is a well-known artistic producer in the North East who has successfully produced and developed the popular Gateshead’s Enchanted Park for six years and Odin’s Glow in 2009.

The show adds another dimension to the Alnwick Garden, maximising the seasonality of the attraction alongside a vibrant series of festive activities happening throughout November and December.

The Duchess talks about it with all the enthusiasm she has had since her grand design for the 21st Century garden was first revealed.

The grand garden for the people that the Duchess has >>

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GRACIOUS GATE-KEEPER lived and breathed for nearly 20 years has more than come to fruition but she is going nowhere until its future is financially secure.

That could mean anything goes, even the giant arches of the McDonald ‘M’ sponsoring what is the largest children’s playground in the world?

“I’m not too sure I can afford to be choosy”, she says, talking about potential naming and sponsorship opportunities for different areas of the gardens.

“I need another £15 million more and I will never step back until I finish. When I have that I will have the endowment to secure the future for the charities here. There are fabulous naming opportunities for the playground, the pavilion and for gardens still to be developed.”

So the job is far from done. We take photographs of the Duchess at one of the newest attractions, two ornate gates, created by Northumbrian blacksmith Stephen Lunn and his daughter, Ashlee.

They are gates that ‘sing’ - nothing is ever simple in the Alnwick Garden.

“When we do something we do it well. The gates are

Another sponsorship opportunity for this business-minded Duchess?

She would run with that. Even the commercial growing of cannabis has been mulled over as an income-generator, she says with tongue only partly in cheek.

“Because of the poison garden we do have a licence to grow illegal plants - but I think policing that one would be a nightmare!”

The Duchess was once quoted as saying the garden would be done by 2015 so she is constantly being asked when she will be taking a step back.

She is going some way towards this with the appointment of Mark Brassell, the new director of the garden who has moved from South Africa to take up the post.

“I would be turning in my grave if I didn’t finish it by the time I die. I live and breathe this project and for anyone to be left to manage what I’ve built, they’ve got to be a special person”, says the Duchess.

“Someone said you have to have the right chemistry and so Mark came for interview, then I said let’s go for lunch, then come and have tea.

The Alnwick Garden will feature bold illuminations this Christmas

Alnwick images courtesy of Graeme Peacock

The Downton Abbey cast at Alnwick Castle

new and extraordinary, magnificent.”

They took two years to make and weigh in at a hefty 640 kilograms and are quite probably a world first - she does that - ‘the first interactive gates in the world’ with their chirping, sing-song sounds from the cascade of flowers.

From a distance they look ornate but only as you get closer do you see intricate thorns, leaves and branches woven through.

“Their arrived heralded the arrival of something new and unique”, says the Duchess.

The gates have been featured on Robson Green’s Tales of Northumberland - the next thing to come alive will be a Cherry Orchard in the spring.

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“I always said there will be a time when this project is finished - there was a plan and the plan will be done but I will not step back until it is finished”, she says.

The main objective is to ensure the future of the different charities that have been set up at the garden.

These include an enterprise and employability programme for young people which sees them setting up money-making projects based at the Garden and teaching them lifeskills and interview techniques. ‘Sprouts’, is a drug education, gardening and healthy eating project for children and families and ‘Elderberries’, a therapeutic well-being programme for older people, including those with dementia.

Projects offer social, health and well-being benefits with the

CROSSING CONTINENTS Life has come full circle for Mark Brassell, the new Director of Alnwick Garden.

He joined the team at Alnwick earlier this year from a sunshine home in South Africa, but in many ways it is a case of coming home.

Mark’s father was a miner in Northumberland. When the pits closed he emigrated to South Africa in search of a better life for his family.

Mark worked in nature conservation in the country but an upsurge in crime persuaded him to return to his roots.

“For me going to meet a Duchess in a castle was surreal, I didn’t want it to go wrong”, he laughs.

There may be physical distance between his two worlds but there is definitely a link between castle and conservancy.

“My experience is in managing eco-tourism. I worked in Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu Natal for 20 years.

I managed game estates with restaurants, shops, accommodation. Here at the Garden it has been exciting to bring in The Christmas Tale and enhance what we already do at Christmas.

“The Garden of Fairytales brings something new a trail with clues and stories and dressing-up for children”, he adds.

Mark will be the Duchess’s right-hand man.

“My job is to get the money, Mark’s is to enhance the garden”, says the Duchess.

“Whoever came to do this job has to be allowed to manage. They have to be strong enough to say ‘you are wrong’ but also to think, ‘I’ve had this idea, let’s give it a go’”, adds the Duchess.

Mark has a dream team of his own who are handy helpers for his on-going garden research.

His family Louisa, Ruby and Joe are about to move continents to join him - and whilst the little ones might miss the sunshine, Daddy’s got them the biggest playground in the world to explore - who can say better than that?

provision of outdoorsy activities like allotments, hen-keeping and therapeutic gardening, tea-dances, toe-nail clipping and iPad training. Projects like this provide a lifeline for older people and are aspiration-raising for younger people who live in an area with poor job prospects.

This lies at the heart of the Duchess’s grand plan.

But if the capital building programme at the Garden hasn’t been affected by the recession then it is these programmes that have been put under pressure concedes the Duchess.

“We are constantly now being asked to pick up programmes that were being run by local councils - that’s money that would be going to other things here.”

And it is in this respect that the Duchess responds to those early criticisms of her ‘vanity’ garden.

“The criticism that I got was because people didn’t understand what we were doing. It’s easy for all of us to criticise.

“I knew what I was doing and who I was doing it for. I had to do what I said I was going to do so some people called that my ‘vanity garden’. Those people don’t necessarily come back to see 100 people tea-dancing or having their toe-nails cut!

“I have always believed that it is possible to make a beautiful place that had good values at its heart and that was good for people.

“I don’t think there’s a place that does what we do. www.alnwickgarden.com/christmas

NOV/DEC15

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LUXE LIFE

PETER LLEWELLYN With over 30 years’ experience in the hospitality industry, from Claridges London to tropical Bermuda, Peter has been at the helm of Crathorne Hall near Yarm for the past 2 years.

He has overseen the re-opening of the £4m east wing redevelopment following a fire just over a year ago LUXE PEOPLE >> I always enjoy being around people who inspire me and I have the pleasure of working at Crathorne Hall with a team that does that everyday. They remind me that to create a great hotel is not just about bricks and mortar but about the team you work alongside.

LUXE PLACES >> For a weekend > Working for Hand Picked Hotels you get to enjoy 20 other wonderful hotels across the UK. I have recently stayed in three: Wood Hall, Wetherby; Rookery Hall, Cheshire and Norton House in Edinburgh. All have spas which are great for the family and all have indulging food and wine to enjoy. Busman’s break but worth it!

A long holiday > Montego Bay, Jamaica for great hospitality but also great weather. I have been to Rose Hall Hotel twice. One very strange event that happens at the hotel is the crab racing that involves lots of crabs starting in the middle of a large circle. All the crabs have different colours on the shells and you bet on which crab is going to get to the edge first. The guy that looks after the crabs does commentary in the form of a horse race. I am also a keen diver so I get the chance to enjoy some amazing dives along the coast.

A treat > Given the opportunity it would have to be Machu Picchu, high in the Andes Mountains in Peru. This is such a magical place, as to this day there is no understanding as to why it is there and where the people of this settlement went.

LUXE RELAX >> Best food > Scottish hand dived scallops wrapped in pancetta. I once worked at Stonefield Castle in Scotland on the edge of Loch Fyne. The restaurant has a panoramic view of the loch so to sit and watch the day unfold while enjoying ‘Sea to Plate’ food is very memorable.

Best wine > One of my best experiences was a trip to the

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Champagne region of France courtesy of Perrier Jouet.

It was a fascinating journey. My favourite red is a Malbec from Argentina.

Favourite restaurant > Dining at Crathorne Hall, which has held the 2 rosette award from the AA for many years, is always a pleasure when I get the chance. I also enjoy barbecue restaurants - there’s a great one called Rebels in Beverley that has some great pulled pork!

Perfect weekend > Spending time with my family to get some balance back in my life. I would normally start the weekend with the 5k park run before the family stir. Then, Angie my wife and girls Caitlin and Keeley and I normally take Misty the dog out for a very long walk on the moors close to our home. At some point there’s some retail therapy and we might eat out at local pub, before relaxing with a film, popcorn and well-deserved glass of wine.

Best telly > Got to be The Apprentice. Where the producers get these so-called business people who clearly love themselves, with these crazy one liners and no common sense is beyond me.

Best book > I am one of these guys who never picks up a book unless I am away on holiday. Last book was ‘A Very Private Murder’ by Stuart Pawson. Stuart is a regular guest at Crathorne Hall and he has a series of books that follow DI Priest. As he tries to solve the case he travels around Yorkshire which is great as you are familiar with some of the places.

Best sounds > Hootie and the Blowfish. A band from Atlantic City back in the 90’s who were a bunch of lawyers who decided to get out of the rat race and create great music. I found the sounds while I was working in Bermuda so it brings back great memories of some great times and chilled days on the beach.

LUXE SHOP >> Best shopping city > York, for not only the huge amount of shops but also for the old style streets, amazing

minster and the naughty cakes of Bettys!

Favourite shop > Superdry for its latest fashion and Gap for jeans as I enjoy that style of clothes. I am also keen on the outdoor life so always happy to pop into a mountain and ski shop too.

Luxe retail retreat > Newcastle has changed a great deal over the past five years so it’s a treat to head there feed that retail need and grab some lunch.

Best buy > Recently I purchased a tweed jacket that I really enjoy wearing with jeans, brown brogues and a nice blue casual shirt. If I could I would wear this style of clothes everyday.

LUXE PARTY >> A memorable night out > I attended a Bobby Robson charity event recently and got the pleasure of meeting a legend in the form of Mick Mills, who was the Ipswich Football Club captain back in the 1970s. As a young lad I remember watching him play and it was a great honour to meet him.

Perfect Party > A few years ago my dad celebrated his 75th birthday and as a family we wanted to do something really special. As we all live in different parts of the UK it took a lot of planning but we managed to surprise him in a restaurant and - a great family reunion that was also very emotional.

Best outfit > Wearing suits all the time at work I always enjoy a quality shirt with double cuff as I like to wear cufflinks.

But as soon as I can I am back in my Gap jeans and t-shirt with my timberland boots. Working long hours I always enjoy getting home and getting into what I call ‘slops’ which consists of my Superdry tracky bottoms and hoodie.

Dinner date > Angie my wife as we don’t get the chance to enjoy time together with my lifestyle - given the opportunity in another life and time, Marilyn Monroe – what stories she could tell!

YOUR LUXE THING IN LIFE >> Love my watches and I like to change them daily.

NOV/DEC15

here in the North East

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Picked Hotel

4 Star Crathorne Hall Hotel near Yarm, is proud to announce the £4m restoration of its east wing; the perfect place to dine, meet, celebrate and stay.

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NOV/DEC15

New Showroom now open!

90,000 sq ft in 5 acres Sunderland Echo House, Pennywell Just off the A19 exit A183

Creative Design No one offers you more choice & better value, with 4 enormous showrooms covering the North East. These allow you the opportunity to touch feel and get into your choice of bathroom or kitchen before you buy it.

With a team of talented designers to offer advice and FREE computer planning & design, plus installation support suppo on a larger project, you are sure to achieve your dream bathroom or kitchen. Added to this are over 25 leading manufacturers & distributors ranges to make sure there is always something to suit every pocket or requirement. This extensive selection is constantly being updated and added to, there is always something new at Tecaz to inspire your imagination.

But equally important to the selection is the fantastic impo prices on offer, with discounts of up to 70% off the retail price! Plus selected kitchens have FREE granite or Silestone worktops!

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IN THE BAG

Rhys Mckinnell and below Chris Eagle

Fill me up

Fenwick’s re-vamped Food Hall is a feast for the eyes and a pleasure to the plate. Kathryn Armstrong eyes up some treats We’ve been in the new food hall at Fenwick, Newcastle for just a couple of minutes and during that time the ever-versatile Rhys McKinnell has managed to wipe down a table, direct a customer to a jar of bilberries and convince me that Fuego’s courgette, apple and monte enebro salad is something I should be eating every day of the week. And that the well-chosen bottle of primitivo I am clutching in my hand is the perfect cheeky midweek wine (how right he is later proved).

Rhys is the man who has in part been responsible for bringing the all-singing-all-dancing new-look Food Hall to Fenwick in Newcastle. So we owe him a lot.

It is of course a team effort, but as head of food and catering in the region’s flagship department store, he’s been the one juggling food balls in the air for months and months. Planning for the project began two years ago and building work started in the summer.

It has been a big deal but now it’s here, the Food Hall is definitely something to be proud of. It’s going to mean a dent in the wallet of every self-respecting food lover, so be prepared. You will come for a coffee, stop for lunch then return home with a bag filled with treats to cook for supper.

What’s good to see is the chains disappearing (bye, bye Yo Sushi and Pret) to be replaced with home-grown, quality suppliers who are a credit to the North East and who would sit alongside their contemporaries in any city.

The concept of the food hall in a department store isn’t a new one. Fenwick has 14 (yes!) eating places.

“Food halls are trending globally”, says Rhys.

This might be true but for every cool foodie adding a few razor clams and some samphire to their basket, the people at Fenwick know they will have the devoted shopper seeking our their favourite product, snazzy surroundings or no.

Which is why Rhys has been stopped in his tracks by

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genteel Mrs Gosforth (in her ‘town’ hat), demanding to know where her favourite jar of bilberries has disappeared to in this grand new food hall.

No panic. Staff are obviously on message and prepared for all this: on tap appears a posse of charming staff ready and waiting to guide customers round the shelves, showing off new treats and calming any fears of the new.

“We did a survey when we started the whole process and something like 4,000 people came back with ideas to help us research what was needed and wanted”, says Rhys.

“Wet fish was a thing for example - a fishmonger counter and it’s here.

“There is great nostalgia for Fenwick and a huge amount of goodwill from customers.

“You have to remember that Fenwick had restaurants years and years ago. Once people only ate at hotels and department stores - we have been serving food here from 1936 and our vision is that we continue that, with a beautiful portfolio of independent restaurants that are unique.

“Fenwick is an independent so we are lucky to be able to trade with the people who are the right fit”, says Rhys.

And the people who fit the bill are an impeccable bunch.

The name Terry Laybourne has to be there when it comes to quality food in Newcastle. He was a consultant throughout the Food Hall project, working alongside Fenwick Executive Chef Kelly Richardson on the various concepts.

The Food Hall’s new restaurants are Fuego, a Mediterraneaninspired wine bar and restaurant: bakery-patisserie-café Mason + Rye, centred on fine patisserie, artisan baking and Viennoiserie to either eat in or take away.

The dining experience also features two new ventures from Laybourne’s 21 Hospitality group; casual seafood bar and fishmonger Saltwater Fish Company and South East Asian street food restaurant Ko Sai, which is led by Thai-born award-winning head chef Parichat Somsri-Kirby.

Head chef at Saltwater is Chris Eagle, who, up until >>

Ian Lowery, left, of Saltwater, with Terry Laybourne

NOV/DEC15

NOV/DEC15

37

IN THE BAG

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THINGS WE LOVE ABOUT FENWICK FOOD HALL The try, sip, buy simplicity of the Enomatic credit-card wine dispenser - load your card and then load your glass and enter a whole new world of ‘must-try’ varieties Happy hour oysters for £1 a shuck at Saltwater Fish Co, 3-5pm. Think of it as afternoon brain food.

A punchy flat white from the artisan Ouseburn Coffee Co and cool chairs to sip it at (make it your new workspace!)

A get-moving in the morning fresh-as-can-be smoothie from local heroes Naked Deli A platter of lusciously creamy 24-month aged Jamon Iberico de Bellota at the counter in Fuego. And a plate of padron peppers.

Bring home your own bacon with a home-smoking kit Chocolate lovers, your time is now. Artisan du Chocolat brings us sea salted caramel truffles Where else can you buy a whole frame of honeycomb?

Utterly authentic Thai noodles, street food and dishes at Ko Sai, inspired by the recipes of chef Parichat’s mother

A few of our favourite things

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Poison Cocktails, £28.95

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recently, had been head chef at The Broad Chare on The Quayside, Newcastle. Prior to that he worked at Café 21.

Running the front of house and service team is Rachel Elliott, who previously worked at Caffe Vivo.

Fish will be cooked from the counter ensuring a lively, dynamic environment throughout the day. Diners can see and discuss how seafood is prepared and cooked.

Heading the fishmonger is well known chef and fish specialist Ian Lowrey, who worked with Terry Laybourne when he first received his Michelin star in 1992. Prior to that, Terry and Ian worked together at the renowned Fisherman’s Lodge in Jesmond Dene.

Depending on the season and daily catches, menu choices will include freshly prepared fish, oysters from different beds, French-style fruits de mer platters, salt and pepper squid, seafood cocktail, crab sandwiches and salads.

A fish-focused wine list will accompany the menu.

Terry Laybourne explained: “Our chefs will work hand in hand with the fishmonger, taking a ‘we cook what we sell, we sell what we cook’ approach. Fish is seasonal so both our fishmonger and menu will be constantly on the move, reflecting the rhythm of the season.

“We have brought together a skilled and experienced team to select the best of seasonal seafood and go wherever it takes to find the best. Our fishmonger will ensure we consistently offer the finest, highest quality seafood that comes from the fabulous larder off the North East coastline as well as other ports around the UK. The refreshed delicatessen department features an array of renowned brands from across the world paired with the very best local produce, including a number of products which are exclusive to Fenwick in the region.

Indian cuisine lovers can visit Rafi’s Spicebox concession for bespoke curry packs made to order and health food addicts can choose from fresh juices, organic and non-processed food at The Naked Deli outlet.

The butchery counter features produce from the Blagdon Farm Shop team with excellent aged beef and prepared game among the offerings.

The revamped confectionery department now features specialist chocolatiers from around the world and from closer to home, visitors will discover artisan roasters Ouseburn Coffee Company.

The new look Fenwick Wine Room, adjacent to the Wine Bar, features an innovative Enomatic wine dispensing system, the first one in the region.

This is great fun for wine-lovers. You can load up a credit-card-style ‘ticket’ which you then use to buy tasters of specially-chosen wines.

There will be a rotating selection of new wines roughly every fortnight and the idea is that customers can have a small taster of wines they might not normally try, encouraging them to experiment in a sociable fun way. The Enomatic section is alongside the tapas-counter at Fuego, bringing a new and fun aspect to eating and drinking and already it’s clear that Fuego has become something of an ‘in’ place to head after work.

“Our vision was to create an exceptional dining and retail experience in the heart of Newcastle and we feel we’ve achieved just that. We’re looking forward to hearing our customers’ thoughts on the new space as we begin the countdown to Christmas”, says Rhys.

“There is something for everyone - come in and buy something special for a dinner party on Saturday or know that you can buy your favourite Ringtons tea.

“We set out to make sure that if you come to buy a piece of beef to cook a recipe then you will be able to get everything else you need - every ingredient, so it’s a complete shopping experience”, says Rhys.

At the same time, the bar-dining experience had to be right too.

“There is an appetite for quality and people are prepared to pay for quality. People will come for champagne and oysters and we are pleased to be able to offer it. There is a great interest in world food and in a food hall that has some authenticity. Fine, fresh ingredients, the best of local produce and the knowledge that goes with them.”

The project was developed by London-based agency CADA Design, which aimed for a warm, contemporary space encompassing a series of unique destinations for shopping and dining.

The patisserie is more ‘sassy’ than a tea-room and other stand-out features include Fuego’s striking wood stone oven, the theatre kitchen at Mason + Rye plus the impressive floor to ceiling drinks display in the Wine Room.

Says Rhys; “we’ve spent two years ‘curating’ everything that is sold in the Food Hall and we hope that we have made it the complete shopping experience.”

Daylesford Organics fig, apple & balsamic chutney, £6.99

HELT honey pack, £17.95

NOV/DEC15

LUXE LOVES

LUXE LOVES Sweet things Everything should be sugar-coated at this time of year. We love the pared-down look of a festive table with chic grey slates, crisp crockery and glistening glasses. Tray, £32, trivets, £30, coasters, £15.

Tableware from www.amara.com

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39

HOME-GROWN CHEER

Veg patch WITH KAREN PHILLIPS

There is something rather smug about having harvests safely gathered, preserves of summer fruits and liqueurs arranged neatly on the larder shelves and the chance to put one’s feet up in front of the fire and plan next year’s crops

RICH PICKINGS >> Radicchio: These plants can withstand temperatures as low as -15 degrees; indeed seed sown in July/August remains green until November/December when the onset of cold weather turns the leaves red and sweetens them. Rossa di Treviso Tardiva is a compact variety that resists frosts and can be harvested up to March; sweet enough to be eaten raw or griddled with olive oil, then topped with goat’s cheese and grilled.

Parsnips - Parsnips get sweeter as temperatures drop since they need to increase the concentration of sugars in the roots to act as a kind of antifreeze. Glorious as a steaming bowl of curried parsnip soup on a cold winter’s day or as parsnip bhajis: grated and then deep fried to add a crunchy addition to stews when serving.

Kale - These crops are worth growing simply for the winter décor they add to the veg plot: crinkly, purple ‘Sutherland Kale’ and deepest blue/black ‘Cavolo Nero’ like ‘Prince of Wales’ feathers emerging from the earth - the latter can be eaten raw in salads, my favourite recipe being courtesy of lovely Bel Smith for Kale and Quinoa salad with dates, almonds and citrus dressing – eating superfoods has never tasted so good!

Potatoes - The harvested potatoes have been stored in a dark and frost-free place and feature in my Mum’s sugar doughnuts; soothing potato boulangère; or crispy alpine rösti with bacon lardons and a fried egg on top. What is it about cold weather that simply makes you want to pile on the jumpers and pile into the carbs?

JOBS OUTSIDE…..

Fleece up crops - A covering of fleece over a crop (it looks like flat sheets of white spun candyfloss) creates a layer of warmer air around plants, keeping the worst of the cold off the leaves and thereby accelerating growth in spring.

Planting fruit/nut trees - Order bare-root trees from now until March: you’ll have a much larger selection to choose from and they’ll arrive in the post much cheaper than pot-grown trees. I’ve been ordering from www.deaconsnurseryfruits.co.uk for over 20 years and their selection of

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apples is huge: over 300 varieties!

Pruning Apple trees: Crisp, cold days are the perfect time to prune your apple trees in order to create a strong framework to support future, heavy crops of apples and, in the process, remove any dead, diseased or damaged wood.

Make leafmould: Once you view the growing piles of leaves as a valuable garden conditioner their seemingly endless falling will cease to irritate you. Gather up and place in sturdy bin bags; dampen the leaves if dry then close the bags and pierce a few holes with your garden fork through them; leave in a distant corner of the garden to rot down for 18 months. Once fully rotted the crumbling brown matter contains no weed seeds so can be used to pot up plants or as brilliant soil mulch.

LOOKING AHEAD Exciting times! We’ll be moving gardens and workshops to Linnels Farm, Hexham; creating an orchard and a veg plot from scratch; and putting the no-dig theory of ground preparation to the test.

Karen is moving Widehaugh House cookschool and gardens, to Linnels Farm, Hexham – for regular updates of the progress visit www.widehaughhouse.co.uk

Freeze-ahead Christmas cookies >> If you have young children, or even if you don’t, a cold winter’s day spent making these ginger flavoured biscuits (chewier than gingerbread) gets you right into the Christmas spirit, particularly if a little tipple of sherry/damson gin is close at hand. The finished cookies can be frozen and then defrosted at room temperature whenever unexpected visitors appear.

Ingredients

Method

500g plain flour 1tsp baking powder 1tsp bicarbonate of soda 1tsp ground ginger 1tsp ground cinnamon 1tsp ground cloves (optional) finely grated zest of 1 unwaxed lemon 150g unsalted butter 175g light, soft brown sugar 3tbsp treacle 2tbsp. golden syrup 1 medium egg

Sift the flour and spices together then stir in the lemon zest. Melt the butter, treacle and syrup over a bowl of simmering water (or on half-power in the microwave for 2 minutesstirring after each minute). Add the melted mixture to the dry ingredients along with the egg and stir to form a soft dough. Roll out onto a lightly floured surface until 1cm thick and cut out shapes using the cookie cutter of your choice. Bake at 180C for 10 minutes; remove from the oven and using a skewer make a hole in the top of each cookie whilst still soft if you wish to hang them on the Christmas tree. Place on a wire rack to cool completely; once cold the cookies can be decorated with lemon icing or simply sieved icing sugar and then dusted with edible glitter.

icing sugar and juice of the lemon if icing cookies edible glitter

DEAR SANTA, I’VE BEEN SO GOOD THIS YEAR: 1. GOLD LEAF DRY TOUCH GLOVES: I am on my third pair of these having used them for too many building projects - Corbridge Garden Room has a great selection.

2. JAPANESE PRUNING LADDER: this ladder has a third leg in the form of a tripod arm that can be extended or retracted to allow the ladder to be firmly anchored on three points on the ground expensive I know and therefore still on my wish list after three years but surely (dear family!) what price can you put on your safety since most serious household injuries occur as a result of falling off ladders. www.niwaki.com 3. SWISS ISTOR PROFESSIONAL SHARPENER: a sharpening stone that is the perfect size for sharpening the blades of secateurs but also useful on household scissors and knives. www.niwaki.com 4. ‘SILKY BOY’ FOLDING PRUNING SAW: cuts through 6 inch trunks of wood like a knife through butter – a serious amount of devastation can be wreaked in a very short space of time. Silky Super Accel 21 is my favourite.

5. SEED STORAGE BOX: Beautiful wall-mounted seedboxes (pictured right) with retro designs - perfect for gracing any potting shed www.theoriginalmetalbox.com/seedboxes-and-storage-boxes 6. TWO ESSENTIAL BOOKS ON VEGETABLE GROWING: for the novice veg grower: ‘Charles Dowding’s Vegetable Course‘; and for the seasoned allotment holder: ‘How to Grow Winter Vegetables’.

NOV/DEC15

HOME-GROWN CHEER

Christmas Chutney >> Apples are in abundance this year so what better way of making the most of those windfalls than as the base for Christmas Chutney; once made it will last for at least a year, mellowing with time, and is the perfect accompaniment to cold meats and cheeses.

Having spent some time recently in Munich, settling our daughter into her new job, I was amazed to see people out collecting elderberries: a much underused fruit in many hedgerows and gardens here in the UK. After extensive research I found an elderberry syrup which makes up a really refreshing spritzer/cocktail in the Alps called a ‘Hugo’; a delicious blackberry, elderberry and apple jam; and the following recipe for Christmas Chutney.

Makes 1.8kg (approx. 6 large jam jars) Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients 675g apples (peeled and cored weight) 225g elderberries (or blackberrries – frozen is fine) 500g onions – chopped 300ml cider or distilled malt vinegar 350g soft brown sugar 100g of raisins or sultanas or chopped dates Sea salt and black pepper A spice bag made of muslin containing: 1tsp of peppercorns 6 cloves 1 cinnamon stick

Method In a preserving pan or very large, heavybased saucepan, simmer the chopped onions in 150ml of the vinegar for half an hour or until soft. Make use of the time to sterilise glass jars and lids (wash jars in hot water, rinse and then fill with boiling water, empty and dry in a warm oven; pour boiling water over lids in a bowl then drain). Once the onion has softened, add all the other ingredients and simmer for 25 minutes until well combined and thick – the spoon should leave a clear mark on the bottom of the pan when drawn through the chutney. Pour into sterilised jars and seal whilst hot. Label when cold. Best left to mature for a month before opening and then lasts for a year.

Table Decorations >> You either have a love or hate relationship with sprouts and for those with the latter they have suggested that this is the best use for them. Clear glass vases are filled with soaked oasis surrounded by coloured sisal. Sprouts are speared using cut lengths of florist’s wire and then positioned in the oasis. A few springs of evergreen box are added to each vase. A couple of vases are simply filled with fresh cranberries to contrast with the blue/green tinge of the sprouts.

Simple place settings can be made using sprigs of evergreens (nothing prickly!), a wired sprout, and then tied with Christmas ribbon in a bow.

Honeyed Hazelnuts >> Hazelnuts or cobnuts are a really easy crop to grow – the trees can be kept small and the fresh nuts are a revelation compared to bought ones, as witnessed by the squirrels which will endeavour to beat you to the crop. Kentish Cobnuts are available at local greengrocers.

Shell the hazelnuts and then toast in a hot, dry frying pan to release their aroma.

Pour into sterilised jars (see chutney recipe for method) and after each of the jar, pour over local honey and continue to layer the hazelnuts and honey until the jar is full. Label and decorate with ribbon and store in a cool, dark place; use within 12 months.

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41

LUXE LIFE

OZ CLARKE Our favourite travelling wine man heads to Newcastle later this month for two events at the Assembly Rooms.

We caught up with him to talk food, beer and, funnily enough, wine LUXE PEOPLE >> All my old friends and my family.

LUXE PLACES >> For a weekend > I love the coast, all the British coast.

Norfolk, Dorset and the Northumberland coast where I love Newton-by-the-Sea, for a fantastic walk and then stopping for a pint and some good seafood at The Ship Inn. A long holiday > Somewhere in the mountains near Corbieres in France. A tiny village with a bar. The fabulous mountain air and the beach half an hour away.

A treat > I’m easily pleased - a first class flight on Singapore airlines. A pampering privilege.

LUXE RELAX >> Best food > Depends on my mood but at the moment I’d go for some fresh-caught cod with new potatoes fried in lard!

Best wine > It could be anything, from a local jug to a £100 Bordeaux. If the mood is right and the company is good then whatever you’re drinking is the best wine.

Best restaurant > My mum’s! Irish homely good. We used to have a heart for our Sunday lunch when I was growing up.

She made us stews, big pies and walloping great dinners.

I have good memories of those Sunday dinners of heart with stuffing - it has a duck/liver texture, slightly chewy.

And roasties made with lard.

There is nothing like preparing a meal with people you love; chopping, chatting, preparing it together.

Close to home I have to say I like The Big Easy in Kings Road. Crab claws, a Kansas steak and a very good New World wine list.

Perfect weekend > A cliff top walk, blue sky, a cosy pub with good local beers and seafood. It’ll have to have rooms to bed down after all that! My favourites include The Anchor at Walberswick near Southwold, The Crown and Anchor, Seatown in Dorset and the aforementioned Ship at Newton.

Downtime means > Outdoors, silence, time to think, to imagine and to be grateful.

Best telly > I like dozy, late night re-runs of classic black and white films, preferably thrillers.

Best book > Dickens’ Bleak House. At school I was kept down a year because my Latin and maths grades were so low. It was because I was hiding books under my desk and I had read all Dickens novels before I was 11. My favourites are Hard Times and Bleak House.

Best sounds > Canterbury Cathedral Choir in full voice.

I was a chorister there. When I am traveling I love to find a cathedral and if I am lucky the choir will be practising.

I am in Ely in a few weeks’ time so I might pop in to the cathedral for evensong.

LUXE SHOP >> Best shopping city > I’m not a great shopper, I confess! I like New York though - I once went there and back in a day on Concorde and went to Bloomingdales where I bought my mum a collection of vintage perfumes - such as Joy and Guerlain - she loved them. Managed to pop in for oysters at Grand Central Station too.

Favourite shop > I love Borough Market in London. It’s an assault on the senses. See, smell and taste the best food in a great atmosphere.

Retail treat > Helena Rubinstein facials and moisturisers! I worked in fashion - including presenting Style Challenge on TV - and the make-up people used to give their advice and recommendations and I have been a fan of Rubinstein ever since. It’s a treat to find it in duty free!

Best buy > I like a designer sale - I am a fan of the designer Adolfo Dominguez so if you can get something in the sale with 40pc or more off then I’m happy.

LUXE PARTY >> A memorable night out > The local pub, The White Horse, west London, when there’s an England World Cup game on.

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You can drink Wylam Cascade which I love. There are eight screens to watch and it’s all very lively.

Perfect party > I’m not a great party person. I like those parties which just ‘happen’. If I had to plan I would go for a summer garden party where I knew everyone and we were drinking English sparkling wine.

Best dress > You’ll know my nice pink dressing gown... it’s got a life of its own.

Dinner date > That’d be my dad. He died when I was in my 20s and I’d have so much to tell him. He was a doctor working in the Vietnam jungle setting up health programmes and sadly contracted a fatal virus.

YOUR LUXE THING IN LIFE >> Being alive, healthy and happy and living in this wonderful country.

Guest Wines hosts Oz Clarke’s two wine events at the Assembly Rooms in Newcastle.

Discover the History of Wine is on 27 November when Oz will tell stories from his latest book, History of Wine in 100 Bottles. On 28 November, Oz hosts a wine tasting over lunch with a question and answer session.

To book: www.guestwines.com/event/ozclarkedinner www.guestwines.com/event/ozclarkemasterclass

TRY ME Oz Clarke’s Christmas Ten Fizz Ridgeview Bloomsbury English sparking wine, £24.99 Waitrose Finest Pignoletto Italian, £8.99, Tesco White Tim Adams Clare Valley Riesling 2013, £10.79, Tesco Cune Barrel Fermented Rioja Blanco, £10.49, Waitrose Red Romanian Pinot Noir own label, £6, Asda and Sainsbury Finest Douro, £6, Tesco Ebenezer & Seppeltsfield Shiraz, £15, Marks and Spencer Finest Vina Mara Rioja Reserva, £9.49, Tesco Sweet “Lush, the only thing to have with christmas pudding” Campbells Rutherglen Muscat, £12.49 (half bottle), Waitrose

NOV/DEC15

middletonlodge.co.uk

01325 377977

Photo courtesy of Gary Walsh

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING FAIR THURSDAY 3RD DECEMBER 2015 Treat yourself and your loved ones at our Christmas fair, with stalls from local crafts and businesses.

All fundraising going to ‘The Celebration of Life After Cancer’ and ‘Great North Air Ambulance’.

The evening begins at 6.30pm.

Tickets: £10 booked in advance, £12.50 on the door.

WINTER WONDERLAND BALL

BURNS NIGHT BALL

Fizz on arrival and a seasonal three course dinner by awardwinning chef Robert Taylor.

Followed by an evening of dancing and live music from swing singer Chris Didcote. All donations going to The Great North Air Ambulance.

Tables of 6 -10 available £55pp. Carriages at Midnight.

Champagne reception upon arrival, accompanying music from a Scottish Piper. Followed by a three-course dinner served by head chef Robert Taylor and a traditional Ceilidh band to end the evening. £55pp, tables of 6-10.

FRIDAY 18TH DECEMBER 2015

SATURDAY 23RD JANUARY 2016

ALL OUR EVENTS ARE AVAILABLE TO PURCHASE AS VOUCHERS MAKING THE PERFECT GIFT FOR SOMEONE SPECIAL TO BOOK or for details of future events please call reception to book on 01325 377977 or email info@middletonlodge.co.uk K n e e t o n L a n e , M i d d l e t o n Ty a s , R i c h m o n d , N o r t h Yo r k s h i r e , D L 1 0 6 N J

NOV/DEC15

43

PIE-MAN

Off duty WITH DAVE COULSON

With autumn well under way, those dark nights and bitter winds call for one thing â&#x20AC;&#x201C; comfort food. Whether you choose to indulge yourself with steaming bowls of fresh soup, piping hot stews or a huge serving of mince and dumplings, we all know few things make you feel better than a good pie. This, however, is a pie with a difference...its contents are raw!

Raw steak pie >> Serves 4 Ingredients

Method

400g fresh hand diced sirloin mince 50g pickled beech mushroom 2 egg yolks 1 diced shallot, marinated in beer and mustard 1 sheet brick pastry Fresh herbs for garnish Salt Extra virgin olive oil

Roll pastry and cut to desired size or shape, glaze with olive oil and bake for 8 minutes at 180C. Mix the mince with mushrooms, shallots, olive oil and salt.

Boil the eggs and take out yolk when cooled.

Crumble the yolk into the mince, shallots, olive oil and salt.

Serve in a small pie dish and place cooked pastry on top.

Garnish and serve with wild watercress salad.

Dave is head chef and business partner at Peace&Loaf, 217 Jesmond Road, Newcastle, NE2 1LA. Tel: 0191 2815222 www.peaceandloaf.co.uk

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NOV/DEC15

ON THE MONEY

Breast and leg of partridge are by far best eaten when cooked by someone else

Hunger under the hammer Grand Yorkshire produce sings at a surprise dining spot in the Dales, as Kathryn Armstrong discovers It was the day the clocks went back: when dark nights and hefty clothes make their presence known.

When with the flick of the big hand, our diet moves to the comfort zone and it becomes acceptable to live on robust reds and creamy mash at every mealtime.

The day in point was everything you love about the late autumn: dazzlingly blue skies, low-slung sun and a manageable chill in the air.

We made the drive to Leyburn in the Yorkshire Dales (see our Luxe Local pages) and drove over heathery hills soaking in the joyful views.

Our destination for lunch was the Garden Rooms at Leyburn, which is housed in the Tennants Auction Room building.

The building is new and impressive, housing regular - and fascinating - auctions and there is plenty to look at in terms of collector displays - on this day some beautiful vintage cars - from a pristine Jaguar to very shiny and much-loved blue Morris Minor.

There is a more regular cafe and a gift shop

NOV/DEC15

too - and concerts bringing young acoustic performers to candlelit cafe-style gigs.

So where we might have expected stuffy, there was definitely a more relaxed vibe going on. On sale day too the Garden Rooms offers up a main and glass of wine menu for £10 - this day, a whole roast slip sole with new potatoes.

The restaurant is smart and stylish: elegant and welcoming with diners of all ages and mixes. There are curvy, plush booths to sit in and a colour pop of modernity with brightly upholstered chairs.

The a la carte menu featured a neat but well chosen selection: partridge, venison, ribeye and seabass plus a veggie option.

A Dales menu is excellent value at two courses for £14 with starters such as game pate and mains ranging from shepherd’s pie to Yorkshire Blue macaroni cheese. Serious comfort there.

Warm from the oven bread arrived with lovely salty butter.

My starter of tempura king prawns (£5.50) consisted of four meaty prawns, well-cooked in a crunchy batter with little rice puffs.

The batter ‘case’ left the juicy prawns intact and perfect for dipping in a very perky chilli sauce.

Crayfish and smoked trout cocktail (£5.50) with apple, watercress and yoghurt dressing was meaty and fresh-flavoured, trout sweet and gently smoked.

A brioche hen’s egg and streaky bacon starter (£5.50) (breakfast by any other name) was clever - an egg-shaped hole in brioche slice then the egg cracked and fried - and impeccable slithers of local bacon alongside.

My main course was a sea bass fillet (£12.50). It was pan-fried, soft fleshed and crisp skin side-up on arrival, bedded on top of creamy potato puree. Blissfully delicious was the braised fennel alongside,

a favourite of mine. Half a big bulb, soft and buttery as could be with caramelised edges. A creamy sauce of knobbly brown shrimps made the whole dish a really good combination of textures and flavours.

Breast and leg of partridge (£14) are by far best eaten when cooked by someone else. This bird is a gently flavoured member of the game family and really doesn’t need too much cooking. This was soft and tender with that hint of game flavour that is never overpowering. Added to this, the combination of celeriac puree and fondant, creamed barley, sprouts and walnuts and a gentle red wine jus created a dish that was the essence of the seasons.

The hungry teenager with us also laid into an 8oz Waterford Farm burger (£10.50), which came dripping with molten cheddar.

It was meaty, just pink and super-juicy with

a pot of crispy fries alongside - and he was defeated by it.

For desserts, the combination of dark gingery Yorkshire parkin and home-made banana ice-cream (£5) was memorable.

We reckoned the bananas had been caramelised before becoming ice-cream with their treacly flavour.

Spotted Dick (£5.50) with egg custard was a definite Yorkshire portion, but a contrasting delicacy came from a peanut butter and jam slice (£4.50) with raspberry and strawberry puree. It’s an impressive food destination, the Garden Rooms, there’s real attention to detail in the cooking and obvious quality ingredients.

But be careful what you bid for after a glass of wine of two - that Jag might end up on your drive. www.tennantsgardenrooms.com

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WINTER PLEASURES

Eat Seasonal WITH ANDREW WILKINSON OF ARTISAN

A lovely showcase of the season’s best ingredients for a warming supper dish

T

Warm Salad of Wild Venison, Vegetables and Goats’ Curd Let me share with you a stunning venison dish that perfectly showcases a selection of seasonal ingredients – think hearty vegetables and juicy blackberries, which remain in season until the first frosts of winter.

The dish is simple to prepare, yet brimming with the distinctive flavours of the nutty butternut squash and the intense gamey venison, all offset by the tangy goats’ curd and sweet blackberries. It has to be said, this plate brings together some of my favourite ingredients at this time of the year.

Back in the Artisan kitchen, we’re busy preparing for the festive season. We’ve crafted set lunch and à la carte menus for December, featuring our top pick of wintry ingredients and those classic Christmas flavours – all with an Artisan twist, of course.

Visit the Artisan website for more details. www.artisannewcastle.com

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Ingredients

Method

400g venison loin (trimmed) 8 baby beetroots 1 butternut squash 5 baby parsnips, baby turnips, baby carrots 100g fresh goats’ curd Mixture of baby salad leaves 100g butter for roasting

Preheat oven to 180C. Clean and scrub the selection of baby vegetables.

Peel and dice the butternut squash, drizzle with salt and pepper and a dash of olive oil, and wrap in tin foil. Roast for 30 mins until soft, then blend until smooth and keep warm.

Blanch the baby vegetables in boiling salted water until tender. Refresh in ice water.

For the parsnip crisps, thinly slice the parsnip on a mandoline. Deep fry until crisp and golden at 160C, then season with salt.

Cook the venison loin by sealing in a hot pan. Add 20g butter and a sprig of thyme, then baste cook to medium rare.

Allow the meat to rest while you roast the vegetables.

Place 20g of butter in a non-stick pan until it reaches nutty brown, then add the vegetables and cook until nice and golden in colour.

Make the dressing by whisking the oil into the vinegar and use a tablespoon to dress all the ingredients.

Carve the venison and assemble the dish as pictured, with a smooth dollop of goats’ curd on the plate.

DRESSING 100ml olive oil 20ml sherry vinegar Sea salt and pepper 8 blackberries

NOV/DEC15

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The Lakes Distillery

THE LAKES DISTILLERY

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The Lakes Distillery HQ in Gosforth, Newcastle NE3 4NB

STILL The gleaming whisky still is a place where science and nature combine to work their malty magic.

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LUXE LIFE LUXE PEOPLE >> My luxe people are probably people you have never heard of but for me they define that drive to succeed. The first is Michel Palmié who was captain of the best rugby team in France when I was young and the second is Yannick Noah, the last French man to win the French Open in 1983. My parents definitely deserve a mention: they run a wonderful 12-bedroom hotel in France and taught me everything worth knowing about hospitality. And I’d better not forget my wonderful girlfriend, Paula and our son Etienne.

I’m a lucky man!

LUXE PLACES >> For a weekend > Bezier in the South of France for the fantastic seafood and laid-back vibe. a long holiday > Fiji for the most incredible beaches I have ever seen.

LUXE RELAX >> Best food > Alaskan king crab legs. In my house we eat these on Christmas Day instead of turkey. They are huge and absolutely delicious, a real treat.

Best wine > Barolo ‘Gemma’ 2010. Paula and I drank this on our first date.

Favourite restaurant > After the Tontine of course, I would have to say the Lords of the Manor in the Cotswolds.

Perfect weekend > That rare thing for anyone in hospitality, a weekend spent at home with the family.

Downtime means > Time spent with my girlfriend and our three-year-old son Etienne. Maybe a round of golf if I was allowed!

Best telly > I really enjoyed ‘The Royals’. Even though it’s fictional I find the idea of royalty fascinating, it must be because I am French.

Best theatre > Stomp because it’s loud and funky like me.

Best book > Dr Seuss. I am reading it with my son at the moment and it gets us both laughing.

Best sounds > I really like listening to Bruno Mars but if I had to choose a favourite sound it would be the sound of a champagne cork popping.

LUXE SHOP >> Best shopping city > Leeds. It’s small enough to do in a day but big enough to have some really great shops.

Favourite shop > It’s predictable but I would have to say Harvey Nichols.

Luxe retail treat > Vietnamese prawns, you get just three to a kilo but they’re worth every penny.

Best buy > My son had his heart set on a particular cabin bed he had seen in a magazine.

After trawling Ebay we managed to find it for a quarter of the price. That made all of us happy!

STEPHANE LEYRELOUP Stephane Leyreloup became General Manager at The Cleveland Tontine in February, moving from the Michelin-starred Box Tree restaurant in Ilkley. He began his career as a sommelier at the celebrated Maxim’s in Paris where he won a number of awards.

He worked in Toronto for 17 years before landing in Yorkshire where he spent 10 years working at the Devonshire Arms

LUXE PARTY >> A memorable night out > My first date with Paula when we met for a coffee and stayed out chatting until 3am.

Perfect party > I know it’s boring but when you work as many nights as I do, my perfect party is definitely a house party. Close friends and family, a sharing dinner we can all eat with our fingers, some great wine and lots of chat around the kitchen table. Sounds like heaven.

Favourite item of clothing > I have a jacket from French designer Etienne Ozeki which I have had for years but I still love it.

Dinner date > I would take Paula out for a fantastic dinner and then go dancing but if she wasn’t available I guess I would make do with Halle Berry.

YOUR LUXE THING IN LIFE >> You’ve heard it before but I agree that ‘life’s too short to drink bad wine’ so if I was allowed one luxury it would be a good bottle of red. www.theclevelandtontine.co.uk

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NOV/DEC15

Installing the finest home entertainment since 1966

6 Kingston Court, Kingston Park, Newcastle Upon Tyne. NE3 2FP. 0191 285 7179 | www.petertyson.co.uk

GLAMMING UP

DAZZLING DETAILS THE TIME OF YEAR TO SHAMELESSLY GET OUT YOUR TASSELS, SPARKLES, SEQUINS AND SHOWY SHOES - GO PARTY!

Vivienne Westwood Anglomania New Fond Dress, £325, Fenwick Dune Head Over Heels Gold Lurex Strappy Heeled Sandal, £49, Fenwick

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NOV/DEC15

Come and play for longer this Christmas For details visit intu.co.uk/metrocentre Š 2015 Intu Properties plc

GLAMMING UP

Alexander McQueen printed dress, £375, Fenwick Dune Bronwin Multi-Metallic Sweetheart Court Shoes, £89, Fenwick LK Bennett London CU Nina Clutch, £295, Fenwick

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NOV/DEC15

Celebrating 15 years of fine hand crafted, precious jewellery.

Marianne Saunders and Robert Pughe create beautiful ranges in silver, gold and platinum.

Specialising in fine diamonds and rare coloured gem stones, gorgeous pearls and Danish watches.

Showcasing an extensive range of European designers

32 Hill Street, Corbridge, Northumberland, NE45 5AA | 01434 633302 | Saunderspughe.com

GLAMMING UP

Prey of London Sequin Tuxedo Jacket, £179.99, Psyche French Connection Zip Pocket Jeans, £79.99, Psyche

NOV/DEC15

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Charles Clinkard Eldon Square Newcastle and branches across the North East www.charlesclinkard.co.uk

NOV/DEC15

F I N E

F O O T W E A R

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GLAMMING UP

French Connection Sequin Strapless All In One Jumpsuit, £179.99, Psyche Moda In Pelle Pointed Toe Diamante Court Shoes, £98.99, Psyche Lulu Guinness Smooth Leather Chain Strap Lip Clutch, £394.99, Psyche

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NOV/DEC15

CELEBRATE YOUR CHRISTMAS MOMENTS

63 High Street, Yarm,

Unit 18 Sanderson Arcade,

Cleveland, TS15 9BH,

Morpeth, Northumberland,

01642 788088

NE61 1NS, 01670 511333

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GLAMMING UP

Forever Unique London Audrey Dress, £544.99, Psyche Ted Baker Juliennas Suede Heeled Sandals, £93.99, Psyche

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NOV/DEC15

WINTER PROMOTION

Cobblestone Womenswear Boutique

Full use of the health club facilities with a hot chocolate and a cookie ESPA Relaxing Top to Toe Ritual 1 hour 25minutes: • Begins with a mini foot ritual to warm your soul followed with • Back exfoliation & relaxing hot stones back massage and ends with a warming mini facial & Oriental scalp massage • Available to book now for October, November & December 2015

AVAILABLE OCTOBER, NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER Slaley Hall, Slaley, Hexham, Northumberland NE47 0BX

01434 673350

Situated in heart of Stokesley, Cobblestone is a contemporary boutique stocking many labels including: Penny Black A Postcard from Brighton Sandwich Alembika YaYa Rino & Pelle Betty Barclay Mado et les autres Along with Handbags and Accessories galore and stunning contemporary jewellery

Only £75 for 1hour 25minutes

SlaleySpa@qhotels.co.uk QHotels.co.uk/SlaleyHall

Terms and Conditions Terms & conditions apply & offer subject to availability. Offer available for the months of October, November and December 2015. Offer cannot be booked in conjunction with any other discount or promotion. Package includes 1hour 25 minutes book out time inclusive of consultation and aftercare advice. The health club is family & child friendly, busy times are weekends and during school holidays.

28 College Square, Stokesley, TS9 5DN 01642 715715

We pride ourselves on our service, offering style, fit and trend advice to all our customers, we are open Monday – Saturday 9-5.30pm, come and see for yourself...

CELEBRATE YOUR CHRISTMAS MOMENTS

PANDORA Northallerton 105 High Street, Northallerton, North Yorkshire, DL7 8PP, 01609 770100 Be inspired at Pandora.net

NOV/DEC15

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GLAMMING UP

French Connection Diamond Fringe Bolero Jacket, ÂŁ349.99, Psyche

FASHION CREDITS

Photography: Kevin Gibson www.kgphotography.co.uk Hair & Make-up: Victoria Forshaw www.pinpetalspowder.co.uk Location: Dom Perignon Penthouse Suite, Vermont Aparthotel, 15-18 Sandhill, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3AF Models: Kiren Bassi and Faye Kelly www.tyneteesmodels.co.uk

STOCKISTS

Fenwick, Newcastle www.fenwick.co.uk/stores/newcastle Psyche, Linthorpe Road, Middlesbrough www.psyche.co.uk

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NOV/DEC15

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TIME TO THINK OF PRELOVED WATCHES? LUXURY WATCHES ARE CAREFULLY MADE TO LAST FOREVER, VIEW OUR STUNNING COLLECTION OF PRE-OWNED ROLEX WATCHES, WE BUY AND SELL, PLEASE CALL IN TO DISCUSS YOUR REQUIREMENTS.

63 HIGH STREET, YARM, TS15 9BH 01642 788088 UNIT 18, SANDERSONS ARCADE, MORPETH NE61 1NS 01670 511333

NOV/DEC15

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KEEP IT SLEEK

TREND WATCH Catherine Newton helps out with a spot of party-frock planning

>> Neat and chic

>> Get your kicks

bolder with your accessories. Look to this label for a very grown-up LBD. This Christmas ditch the festive glitter and make sure there isn’t a novelty jumper in sight! For AW15 your party-look should be minimal, understated and laid back.

Sleek lines, modern prints and cool clutches are this year’s must-have party pieces, from sculpted mini-dresses by Victoria Beckham to elegant peplum designs

by Sportmax. Here are five of my go-to labels to get you through this season’s special occasions.

VICTORIA BECKHAM >> The AW15 Victoria Beckham Denim range blurs the lines between casual and formal.

Sculpted mini-dresses juxtapose oversized grungy parka coats and sleek tailored shirts meet wide, boot-cut jeans. One of my favourite pieces is their neon-orange tweed mini dress. Wear with a pair of extra-high heels and accessorise with a sleek Vivienne Westwood envelope clutch bag to create a perfectly British Christmas party look.

SPORTMAX >> Famed for their elegant outfits, this need-to-know label have created a covetable collection of pieces which every stylish party-goer will want to be seen in this season. Their iconic peplum design, which runs across many of their AW15 tops and dresses, adds a feminine silhouette to otherwise minimal pieces. Colour is used sparingly, leaving room for you to be a little

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN >> McQ Alexander McQueen have filled their AW15 collection with intricate prints that have a thoroughly modern feel. Colours are layered on top of each other in seemingly random patterns, (think Jackson Pollock), and hem-lines are kept rough and unfinished – choose McQ Alexander McQueen if you’re looking for something really fashion forward to wear this season.

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>> Perfect peplum

MSGM >> If bright and bold is your thing then MSGM is the brand for you! From their neon bubblegum pink shift dresses with an oversized pussy-bow neckline to their pastel yellow tunic tops and their bold red leather matching skirts and tops, you’ll find that colour blocking is key to their AW15 collection. Not only will these winter-brights help you to achieve a styled-out party look this season, they will also look great into SS16 – we’re predicting a very colourful season ahead!

VIVIENNE WESTWOOD >> I adore Vivienne Westwood’s gorgeous AW15 collection, their rich oranges and deep greys create a truly autumnal palette.

Look out for their stunning grey-marl draped dresses to find the ultimate laid back party outfit. These versatile pieces can be dressed up for important functions or down for something more relaxed. Trust me, everyone needs something like this in their wardrobe!

ACCESSORIES >> Don’t forget to add the finishing touch to your outfit by choosing the perfect accessories. This season it’s impossible to pick up a fashion magazine without seeing a picture of Russell and Bromley’s must-have Highland boots (pictured).

These suede over-the-knee boots are the perfect addition to any winter outfit, not only do they look spectacular but they will also make your legs look great (and they will keep them warm too!)

Brightly coloured clutch bags are also a huge trend this season, from Marc by Marc’s bold blues to Kenzo’s neon yellows and bright oranges. Use these eye catching colours to add a touch of fun to your festive occasionwear wardrobe.

To explore our new season collections with the help of our in-house Fashion Stylist please call 0191 232 5100.

Catherine Newton is Head of Womenswear at Fenwick Newcastle.

NOV/DEC15

pre-loved designer fashion

W W W. S U E H O O. C O M

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SNOW WHITE

Winter hots up With clean lines, strong silhouettes and androgynous looks, your party season look is all about being polished to perfection.

Our gorgeous siren is a great example of how getting all the elements right will help create a look that is hot enough to ward off winter’s grip.

Think glossy lips, strong eyes and of course head-turning hair! Whether you are brave enough to rock a super short look like this or have long gorgeous locks, keep it polished to perfection with the right amount of lift and texture to get you ready for the most glamorous of seasons.

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This image is taken from our 2015 British Hairdresser Of The Year collection ‘Heroes’ which plays homage to style icons like Debbie Harry, Grace Jones and David Bowie who crossover to also inspire some super cool cuts for S/S 2016.

It’s all about confidence and embracing that 70s attitude with an updated style and fresh take on some iconic looks.

This year’s British Hairdressing Awards take place at the end of this month and promise to be a spectacular night of glitz, glamour and lots of champagne! We love it.

Team Hooker & Young are up for a few awards at this year’s star-studded event at London’s Grosvenor House Hotel on Park Lane. Myself and Gary are nominated for the

coveted ‘British Hairdresser Of The Year’ which is a huge honour and a great shout for the North East.

Joining us on the night are Jonathan Turner from H&Y Jesmond, a finalist for Northern Hairdresser Of The Year and also Marcus King from H&Y Wynyard who is a finalist for this year’s Men’s Hairdresser Of The Year.

So fingers crossed we bring back some silverware to the North East.

From everyone at Hooker & Young we’d like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas.

Michael x Michael Young and Gary Hooker run Hooker & Young, with five salons regionwide. www.hookerandyoung.co.uk

NOV/DEC15

LUXE LOVES

LUXE LOVES Kind words Say it your way and in some style with recycled cardboard letters that your can customise with your own festive message.

Letters, ÂŁ2.50 each, RE, Corbridge www.re-foundobjects.com

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Sparkle and shine. We salute the time of year when it’s fine to buy treats, add them to your wish-list or just shimmer like a mad thing

Beauty:update

IT GIRL >> Charlotte Tilbury will be a very welcome name when it comes to wish-list gifts this Christmas. The new Tilbury cosmetics department in Fenwick, Newcastle is a glorious destination where you can sit down and reinvent yourself under the guidance of the Tilbury make-up team who can indulge you with a range of key looks - so vamp it up for Christmas or play it down for calmer days. If you’re choosing hero gifts, then the Tilbury Magic Cream, £70, will impress, as will the Wonderglow beauty flash primer, £38.

One for everyone is Filmstar Bronze&Glow, above, to sculpt and highlight, £49, and it comes in a very handbag-appropriate Hollywood starlet case!

LADY LOVE >> We reckon this would be Lady Mary Crawley’s go-to look for her festive moments in Downton’s shady places. Pale face, and seriously tempting lips. Chanel’s Rouge Allure Gloss in Expression, £26, and try nails in Singuliere, £18. On counter.

<< EYE LIKE IT A good eyeshadow palette is a treat of a festive gift; it’s one that keeps on giving and lasts at least until next Xmas. Clarins’ 10-shade Mineral Palette has good easy-wear colours that can be used wet or dry. £35 on counter.

<< SPARKLE

GLOW ON >>

Make-up guru Daniel Sandler sets you up for partytime with ’Sculpt and Slim’ £24.50 which is all about the contour. A kit to create the illusion of defined cheekbones and a slimmer face.

Do try it at home.

His Billion Dollar Body Shimmer, £20, does the glimmer trick with a lightweight powder to add a glamorous, finishing touch to the body.

Find the range in Rockliffe Spa shop or www.danielsandler.com

Michael Kors’ new Gold Collection of fragrances is sure to be on many a Christmas wish-list. Strike gold with the White Luminous Gold; 24K Brilliant Gold; and Rose Radiant Gold fragrances, from £39 for 30ml. Find it at Fenwick.

<< LOVE MII Be beautifully dazzled by the gorgeous make-up collection from Mii now available in Ramside Hall Spa. We were especially wowed by the brow consultations - just a few minutes to transform your face; it really is a case of ‘instant facelift’.

A therapist will look at face shape and natural brow to enhance your own brow.

Lighter, thinner areas are filled in with a product called Brow Detailer and a stencil and brow powder complete the look. It’s all very clever and really makes a difference to your face shape and final make-up colour - you just emerge very polished and perfect. The Mii brand was launched four years ago to be sold exclusively through spas and salons

by Susan Gerrard who was responsible for bringing Jessica nail products to the UK. The range is renowned for its use of the best ingredients and using the latest cosmetic innovations to create products suitable for women of all ages and all skin types.

We like the idea of a Christmas gift of a Mii make-up session or lesson to get the tricks of the trade and a whole new look for 2016. From £30 www.ramsidehallhotel.skchase.com

HAIR STYLING SPECIALISTS

HANDBAG CARE & REPAIR SPECIALISTS Nationwide handbag renovation service for leather & fabric bags Before

After

Before

After

Reef Durham, Ramside Hall Hotel and Country Club, Durham, Co. Durham DH1 1TD 0191 386 3055

NOV/DEC15

web: www.handbagclinic.co.uk

Reef Wynyard, Wynyard Hall Hotel and Country Club, Billingham, Cleveland TS22 5NF 01740 665 404

tel: +44 (0)1207 279963 / email: enquiries@handbagclinic.co.uk

W W W. R E E F S A L O N S . C O . U K

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DAZZLING

MOUTH MATTERS WITH DR ONKAR DHANOYA

TIME FOR TOM? >> But of course. Tom Ford’s new Noir Collection arrived with perfect festive timing. Limited edition treats in glossy jet-black packaging. It’s all about the moody this season and the collection is blissfully bold. Cream and powder eye color in the deepest shade of black with reflective pearls creates the ultimate smoky eye. Party-friendly Lash Tips mascara in cobalt or gold adds a flirtatious flash of light. Nude lips and onyx black nails complete the look. In Fenwick, from £29.

The luxe lust-afters Our new columnist Dr Onkar Dhanoya is clinical lead at the award-winning Osborne Dental Group and principal dentist at dental health and wellbeing practice, Ponteland Dental.

The beautifully restored 19th century building at Bell Villas in the heart of Ponteland provides private treatments, cosmetic dentistry and facial aesthetics.

Dr Dhanoya has more than 30 years of dentistry experience, sits on the board of the Faculty of General Dental Practice and holds a fellowship from the Royal College of Surgeons (London).

THE FACTS ABOUT TEETH WHITENING Are you considering a teeth whitening session ahead of the festive season? It’s the most effective anti-ageing treatment available, but it’s important to carry out some careful research beforehand.

Did you know, for example, that anyone who carries out teeth whitening is legally required to be a dental professional registered with the General Dental Council? If they’re not a dentist, or a dental hygienist, dental therapist or dental technician working under the supervision of a dentist, then it’s simply illegal for them to carry out the procedure.

Practitioners in beauty businesses and hairdressing salons are not qualified to carry out teeth whitening, and there is no guarantee that it will be carried out safely. In fact, it could even lead to lasting damage to your teeth and gums.

At Ponteland Dental, we thoroughly examine your teeth and gums to establish whether or not the treatment is suitable for you, before explaining your options and providing a written plan.

As a special autumn offer, we’re offering in-surgery teeth whitening for only £330. We use ‘Zoom!’ - a 45 minute bleaching process that lightens the discolouration of enamel and dentin - during which time you can relax and read or listen to music before leaving us with teeth up to five shades whiter.

Alternatively, whiten your teeth in your own home for only £230 this autumn. We’ll manufacture bespoke bleaching trays to fit on your teeth and gums, apply your first treatment, and show you how to continue whitening independently.

Teeth whitening can last from a few months right up to three years, although this varies from person to person. Bear in mind that the whitening effect won’t last as long if you smoke, or drink red wine, tea or coffee, which can all stain your teeth.

Both offers are valid until 30 November 2015. To book, call us on 01661 821 412 or email info@pontelanddental.com.

<< SMOOTH OPERATOR Treat mum to Darphin’s new 8-Flower Nectar Oil Cream, £65, a rich night cream that leaves skin feeling super supple. It smells exquisite and gradually evolves on the skin into an emollient oil. On counter in John Lewis.

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Jo Malone and Christmas make the best of chums. This year plead with the bearded man for the limited edition Pomegranate Noir in its mistletoe-green striped bottle £89 or just blow it on an audacious advent calendar brimming with treats every day of December, sharp intake, £260.

Take a look at Fenwick, Newcastle and now in House of Fraser, intuMetrocentre.

THE ONE >> Right, you want to make a big festive statement - here it is.

Creme de la Mer is as indulgent, opulent and effective as you’d expect a super brand to be. The shout-out Xmas gift is the Concentrate Collection: Crème de la Mer 60ml, and The Concentrate 50ml, in a champagne cosmetics case, £400.

At Fenwick and John Lewis, Newcastle.

GOOD SPRITZ GUIDE >> Christmas Wish special edition candles, £49.95, are really long-lasting and are made with quality essential oils - they even smell great when they’re not lit. www.neom.co.uk

<< ME TIME Wynyard Hall & Spa’s Girlie Getaway packages offer stays jam-packed with pampering treats. Check in to luxurious, self-contained cottages and sink in to the outdoor hot tub with a bottle of pink champagne and nibbles; then cocktails and dinner in the Hall. Or, the Spa package includes two hours’ use of the Spa facilities, lunch and a Rasul mud treatment. Then hit the cottage for pink bubbly, hot-tub and chick-flicks. Breaks from £132pp based on six people sharing a cottage. www.wynyardhall.co.uk

Take the pressure (away) << CLEAN UP

<< AND BREATHE Ponteland Dental, 31 Bell Villas, Ponteland, NE20 9BD. Find Ponteland Dental on Facebook Visit www.pontelanddental.com

<< SANTA, BABY

Liz Earle’s limited editions of the signature squeaky-clean cleanse&polish set include new Pink Pepper & Mint fragrance with gold-trim cloths - ooh! A new fragrance celebrates the company’s 20th birthday.

Botanical Essence No.20 Eau de Parfum blends sandalwood and rose. £49. At John Lewis.

Candles, that great gift go-to. Restorative Nula soy candle, £38, perfect for when you need a moment in a quiet room. Find the range at Sorella in Hexham. www.sorellaonline.co.uk

NOV/DEC15

LIVE TO SHOP WITH WENDY GIBSON

Your personal shopper has Christmas sorted...

Feeling like a frazzled fashionista in the frenzied run up to Christmas? I have the perfect means to lift the spirits, and the energy levels at hand. I’m talking about the brand new Neom spa treatments which now accompany their fabulous fragrance and candles - and are now offered at Matfen Hall’s, Acqua Vitae spa.

Long a favourite of Kate and Pippa Middleton, and a North Yorkshire, emphatically British success story, Neom have come up with a totally different approach to spa treatments.

I was feeling really rotten, with the tail end of a nasty flu bug, when I tried the Happiness treatment, uplifting, balancing, and a great way to get yourself back on form, after any illness, or stress. It’s also the perfect way to try Neom’s unique concept of warm oil candles.

The candles burn then the nourishing oils are poured over and massaged into your body.

It’s that hot-stones feeling-meets-divine-re-hydration. Wonderfully holistic, you start with a guided meditation, for total relaxation then five different types of massage. You choose from a menu of four treatments: Happiness, Energise, De-stress or Sleep. Prolong the feel-good factor when you leave the spa. Having really enjoyed the treatment, I then bought the Happiness candle, Neom’s top seller, to burn in my home, and maintain the positive vibes.

Matfen Hall’s spa therapists spent a week with the Neom team perfecting the treatments.

You may have read in the papers how Ant and Dec, plus celeb friends, stayed at Matfen Hall for Dec’s wedding. Staff at the hotel were too discrete to say if any of the wedding guests had visited the spa – but if they didn’t last time, I’d certainly encourage them to pay a return visit!

Fortified by a spa treatment, and ready for the retail fray, it’s a question of sourcing that perfect frock. Top end Alice and Olivia have, as ever, got some gorgeous creations. But I also like Jigsaw and Whistles, as embraced by Samantha Cameron with her showstopper red maxi dress, which garnered so many headlines. Classy, classic DVF has lots of choice too, including the traffic light red lace Julianna wrap dress. Of if you want to go more boho, Isabel Marant has a navy and white Breton winter mini dress, that will definitely win you second looks.

When asked recently what was the desert island, must have, piece of clothing, she couldn’t live without, Kate Moss unhesitatingly replied – the biker jacket!. Versatile, sexy, and one of the few things, that just gets better with age.

Agreeing with her is rock chick supremo Georgia May Jagger, who has come up with a capsule, limited edition collection for Mulberry this season. Long a fan of the Burberry biker jackets, I must confess that I’m now seriously tempted by the Mulberry versions.

Jagger has looked anew at the traditional biker jacket, and furnished it with a choice of three jewel silk linings, in a flash of emerald green, cobalt blue, or fuchsia. There’s a choice of three matching scarves, in the same jewel colours, with the fox, owl, or bee motif. And a cute bag.

There’s even the option to personalise your biker jacket, with your initials, and have the fox, owl or bee motif stitched on the back. Most popular currently are the fox and initial version. Luxe it may be – but it’s soooooo worth it!

An alternative to the Jagger scarf, and one with a social conscience, is the blue Beulah Shibani heart scarf, £85, with £10 going to the United Nations blue heart campaign against people trafficking. With a popular celeb following, it’s been photographed on Kate and Pippa Middleton, Kim Sears aka Mrs Andy Murray, Kirstie Gallagher, and Cressida Bonas.

The trend for over the knee boots is still strong this winter. Having invested in a black pair last year, I’m now seriously considering the navy or burgundy suede ones from Le Pepe at Jules B. They give instant va va voom to any outfit – perfect with skinny jeans or a party dress and opaque tights, and the flat version’s oh-so comfy.

And if your bloke is struggling with xmas gift ideas, then nudge him towards the Monica Vinader, or Anoushka websites. Bracelets or stackable rings from Monica are perfect, as is the dragonfly ring from Annoushka, or charms from the mythology range.

Happy shopping fashionistas. Wishing you a festive, and flu free time, and see you in the New Year!

SPARKLE THIS CHRISTMAS PARTY SEASON Treat hair to a stunning new style, give skin a festive glow with our range of cutting edge beauty treatments, or prep your hands and feet for party revelry with a Reds manicure or pedicure.

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As well as being a shopping supremo, shoe-a-holic and general lover of all things luxe, Wendy Gibson is a broadcaster, presenter and event host in the North East

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GATHER ROUND

TREND WATCH with Chris Stocks, Pol Kefton Premium Design Make your kitchen a proud place to pop corks and pour fizz

Today’s kitchens are sociable places - current thinking in kitchen design is aimed at making the room one to be lived in and shared, not just work as a functional space.

Making the kitchen a luxury environment means adding the highest quality elements to bring elegance.

When it comes to designing a luxury kitchen, it takes time to create a space that is truly unique.

Kitchen design has a really very broad spectrum just as every home owner has their own way of living, people around them and lifestyle to consider in their home.

I’ll let you in on our some of our design style secrets and things to consider.

SCALE >> this is something to consider in relation to human scale and the size and shape of the space. Using suitable sized items, appliances and furniture determine what will work in the space and work for the homeowner.

FOCAL POINT >> when designing a space you need to create a focal point, an area of interest which captures the attention when you walk into the room. This can be a striking breakfast bar or a feature piece of granite.

SPACE PLANNING >> zoning each area by deciding what its function will be.

Highlighting these areas with contrasting colour, texture or finish will add emphasis.

BALANCE >> meeting a state of complete calm where the areas of interest are in equal proportions.

UNIFORMITY AND CONTRAST >> have a repetition of door fronts or pendant light fittings that are easy on the eye.

AMBIENCE >> create a desirable setting, atmosphere and mood by considering all elements within the space - from lighting, flooring, drop down ceilings to wall coverings and audio. These appeal to all the senses and create the right mood in a room.

Using these elements of design will ensure that you have created a space which takes into account the material choices, style and overall usability. Consider the flow within the whole space and how this space interacts with the kitchen. Using these principles will ensure you strike the right balance between style and functionally and you will have a kitchen which will stand the test of time.

A prime example of luxurious product is shown in our Sub-Zero and Wolf ‘Living Kitchen’ above, which we created at Pol Kefton. It has been influenced by a Parisienne-style wall effect shown on the bespoke tall unit doors. The island has solid marble doors, American oiled walnut interior carcases and a statement breakfast bar. There is also a marble-clad extractor fan and a pocket door column allowing us to reveal the appliances completely when using them, but hide them away when not being used.

Left > Accessorising your kitchen with contrasting colours and materials adds a ‘wow’ factor as seen with these three Georg Jensen vases.

Centre > Lighting plays a large part in completing the look and ambience within the kitchen, as these Crystal Lee Broom pendants show.

Right > American walnut breakfast bar features different gradient thicknesses to create a luxurious effect.

All available at www.polkeftonhome.co.uk

Pol Kefton Kitchens Unit 1 Coopies Field, Coopies Lane Industrial Estate, Morpeth Ne61 6Jt Telephone: 01670 503869

Morpeth Bathrooms Unit 6B, Coopies Lane Industrial Estate, Morpeth, Northumberland Ne61 6Jn Telephone: 01670 517638

Pol Kefton Home Unit 16 | 17 Sanderson Arcade, Morpeth Ne61 1Ns Telephone: 01670 503749

www.polkefton.co.uk

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NOV/DEC15

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Forage for your festivities Candles, lush foliage and a bit of hedgerow flamboyance create a cool mix for some inspiring festive displays 72

Hands in fingerless gloves have been getting tingly cold at Manor Farm in County Durham as they raid garden and hedgerow.

The talented foliage-nurturing fingers belong to Clarey Wrightson and Kirsty Johnson.

Clarey runs Manor Farm with husband Barney and they are reviving the art of ‘great British growing’; planting historic garden species and encouraging the notion of seasonal in our flower habits, as much as in our eating ones.

Kirsty runs Darling & Green florists and the duo often work together using Clarey’s

just-picked flowers for brides, parties and jolly seasonal arrangements.

Clarey’s flower studio is housed in an out-building in her Arts & Crafts home which is weathered with history. Aged and faded maps and travel posters paper the walls and chunky wooden tables and benches bear the signs of generations of labour

NOV/DEC15

much less creative than today’s more soulful pursuit.

The tables are groaning with the fruits of the flowerbeds outside. Wild, frothy and fabulous blooms, delicate flowerheads, leaves, twigs and grasses look flamboyant and natural, waiting for their moment in the spotlight.

The manor house, built in 1909, lies in the hamlet of Eryholme and from there Clarey

holds regular workshops and in the summer, the gloriously romantic ’pick-your-own’ sweetpea days.

‘Sown and Grown in the North East’ is their mission statement and they are part of a community spreading the message about home-grown and indigenous English flowers.

“We want people to become interested in British-grown flowers. They are as good as any - there is a misconception that flowers in a garden won’t last. Grown right, treated and conditioned they will look beautiful and have lovely smells.”

The organisation Flowers from The Farm brings together a green-fingered band now swelling to more than 200 members made up of small or micro businesses.

Farmers, smallholders and gardeners: people who are using their knowledge of horticulture and floristry to grow and present a different range of flowers to those available from the supermarkets and the wholesale markets. >>

Clarey’s flower studio is housed in an out-building in her Arts&Crafts home which is weathered with history

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Try this at home Winter days and festive tableaux call for berries, foliage, greenery and shimmery wintry shades and textures.

And lots of candles. Loads of candles.

Here’s Kirsty and Clarey’s guide to how you can ‘try it at home’…

FIREPLACE >> Simply placing unusual and interesting shaped foliage and branches on your mantlepiece can have real impact. Choose an evergreen foliage that will hold its shape and last throughout the festive period. Ivy is perfect for this but similarly spruce or holly works well.

Different sized logs with an abundance of candles give a natural festive warmth to the fireplace - our motto here is ‘the more the merrier’.

DRINKS PARTY DISPLAY TABLE >> When choosing colours to dress your home this Christmas give thought to simpler and more unusual shades rather than the traditional red, green and gold options. This soft lilac linen gives a grey tone that works beautifully against the silver accessories and dark wood. Barney found the tree root whilst out working and we used it to make a dramatic centrepiece for the drinks party table. We added homegrown succulents, purple hyacinth bulbs, moss, dried hydrangeas and figs to add interest and candles for warmth and festive sparkle.

Make use of an old urn by filling with foraged greenery, herbs, branches and hydrangeas - we dried these in late summer.

To add a touch of Christmas bling we sprayed some poppy seed heads and artichokes with gold paint.

DOOR >> Create an inviting welcome for your loved ones this Christmas with a simple foraged display. This hanging door wreath is super quick to put together and looks fresh and different. Clarey made use of a beautifully shaped spruce branch by hanging it upside down and tying in hydrangeas, sedum and roses. We used up some fabric offcuts to make a voluptuous ribbon and hung the bunch from the door. Foraged ivy was arranged around the door frame and an old science bell jar Kirsty sourced from a car boot sale was used in place of a hurricane lantern. Barney found an old sledge and a pair of vintage skis in his parents’ home which gave the look a quirky winter styling flourish.

FORAGED WINTER STYLING TIPS >> *Throughout the year think ahead and dry flowers or collect seedheads to use in your Christmas arrangements *When foraging keep in mind the shapes you want to achieve. So for a fireplace look for a stronger straight branch for the base then some tall and winding branches for height and interest. *Think winter rather than Christmas for a classier and more unusual display. No need for tinsel and baubles! *Beg, steal and borrow props from family’s cupboards and garages. *Scour car boot sales and charity shops for vintage finds to add character *If in doubt, add more candles!

STYLIST DETAILS >> Clarey and Barney Wrightson www.manorgarden.co.uk Kirsty Johnson hello@darlingandgreen.co.uk

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NOV/DEC15

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Christmas Day

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What goes on behind Jane Day’s closed doors is a big surprise.

Kathryn Armstrong is inspired by her calm, crafted interiors

Jane Day’s online life looks linen and languid.

Words like chalky, pastel, rough-hewn and rustic spring to mind so it’s something of a surprise to discover that her home is not the renovated milking parlour or converted mill that you might expect.

No, it is an ordinary detached house built circa 1980 on an ordinary housing estate. In Billingham.

Having said that, a step inside reveals no ordinary house.

Home isn’t a kitsch countrified version of those grand designs. It’s a very stylish place which reflects Jane’s life as an interiors writer for the blog Tea with Ruby and the founder of interiors store Owen & Hunter.

Ruby is Jane’s ten-year-old daughter, her companion on little journeys and adventures which make their way to her blog.

Sometimes with dad Rob, the family travels in their much-loved camper van and wherever they go they stop, look, listen and collect.

Sometimes their finds make their way to Jane’s house or find a way to be used in her work.

When we meet she is in the middle of writing a blog for a new range of paints launched by Conran.

They are misty, chalky colours: seasidy greys and myriad

I suppose I would call it eclectic in the truest sense. I like things in their natural state 76

whites. Jane finds a clever way to write about them. Her recent beach combing forays elicited a supply of oyster shells and she uses them as the canvas for the colours, painting them in the different shades and then photographing them beautifully.

Small detail and attention to it mark out what she buys, displays and with business partner Vicky Trainor, will sell in the pop-up shop they have just launched.

“I suppose I would call it eclectic in the truest sense”, says Jane.

“I like things in their natural state rather than being overdone”, she says.

Her little house reveals an abundance of treasures.

On the walls are original leaded light window panels complete with chipped paint which were rescued from Rob’s parents’ loft.

An old flour bin is fashioned into a table, Hungarian linen sacks are chair runners.

A bashed No Parking sign is displayed on the wall alongside a couple of old tennis rackets that Jane bought for £2 each.

Simple, huge glass jars hold seed heads and dried flowers, and curtains are fashioned from simple, natural ticking fabric.

It epitomises Jane’s approach to living. Simple details, time out to look closely at them and enjoy the moment.

For now her mind is on the pop-up but longer term she and Rob are on the lookout for the perfect plot on which to create their dream ‘self-build’. www.owenandhunter.co.uk www.teawithruby.co.uk

NOV/DEC15

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JANE’S SIMPLE CHRISTMAS “Christmas for me is a time to relax and enjoy the season in all its glory. I’m all about simplicity when it comes to dressing the house for the big day. In the weeks running up to the festivities we spend many a happy hour creating our own simple home made decorations, drying orange pieces, making garlands and tin baubles from old chocolate moulds.

It is also very easy to create a striking seasonal display by placing fresh greenery in informal arrangements in each room, bows of holly on the top of kitchen cabinets and buckets filled with eucalyptus and ivy, creating a wonderful effect. Bring in foraged branches of pine and place in glass jars, these displays also make a great alternative to a large tree. Using natural finds from the garden or hedgerow creates a truly traditional Christmas - add candles and tea lights in jam jars for that added bit of sparkle.

Here are some easy makes that everyone can achieve which bring a stylish handmade touch and add natural elements to your celebrations.

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DRYING ORANGES >> Something super easy to do in the weeks prior to the festivities. Slice the oranges thinly, place them on a baking sheet covered in parchment paper. Set the oven to approx 110ºC dry oranges for about an hour then turn each slice and put back in the oven for another hour. Once out of the oven put the segments somewhere warm and dry to carry on drying out so they will be perfect for wiring and hanging to the tree.

SPRAYED SEED HEADS >> Seed heads are abundant in our hedge rows at this time of the year especially cow parsley. Gather a few stems on a family walk for display. To give them that extra touch of winter spray the heads lightly with white spray paint.

HANDMADE TIN DECORATIONS Another easy make is to create hanging baubles from old chocolate moulds. Drill tiny holes in the top of each mould thread through ribbon or thread ready to hang on branches.

These look extra wonderful when they glint in flickering candlelight.

MINI POM POM GARLAND >> Create mini pom poms by winding your chosen wool around a fork’s tines approx 35 times. Take a 6cm piece of wool and tie around the centre of the bundle wool, remove the bundle from the fork and make sure the knot is tight. Snip through the loops and give your pom pom a trim to make it round and rustic. Thread each pom pom onto fine string, space evenly and then display. Hang over picture frames and mirrors or wind it around your tree instead of tinsel for a homespun look.

HAND PRINTED PAPER AND CARDS >> Hand printing wrapping paper and printing your own Christmas cards is a lot of fun. Use a patterned paint roller with a wintry design and matt emulsion paint in neutral tones to produce handmade paper. Cover the roller in an even amount of your chosen paint, rolling firmly in rows to cover an entire roll of craft paper. You can also use this technique for Christmas cards and gift tags; or use hand stamps and ink pads to make individual cards for your loved ones.

NOV/DEC15

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Romanesque pool, the versatility of this property should not be underestimated.

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This unique property offers an enchanting combination of carefully preserved period features and contemporary amenities.

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This property must be viewed to fully appreciate the sheer size and beauty, this is truly a “lifestyle” purchase.

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NOV/DEC15

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DIG THIS

PLOT with Darren Crichton-Jones, owner, Bradley Gardens, Wylam A helping hand to deck those halls

In the grip of winter it is easy to imagine that the garden will be bare and devoid of colour with any sensible plant hiding itself away from the ravages of frost, snow, wind and rain to come.

But there is always some colour and activity to be observed in the garden and often more than you would expect!

Containers and pots of winter interest plants such as Heuchera, Skimmia and Viola ‘Sky Blue’ flourish tucked away in sheltered spots against the walls of the garden; here we also find Nerine ‘Pink Triumph’ under the south-facing wall which has been flowering sporadically since October.

Whist awaiting Dahne Bholua ‘Jacqueline Postil’ and other scented winter flowering shrubs to start their heady display, the Mahonia varieties are already in full bloom with their golden yellow racemes of flowers brightening up the darkest corners.

December is a good time for planting out bare root herbaceous material and the last of the herbaceous borders to be renovated in the garden have just been completed, bar the planting of some large clumps of delphiniums which will be planted in the spring. Clearing and tidying is an on-going winter task but one that is best completed before Christmas so that in the New Year the job of mulching the beds and borders can be undertaken, ready for another cycle of the seasons and a fresh year for the garden.

Jobs for the coming month >> There’s still time to plant daffodil bulbs and other spring flowering bulbs for a magnificent start to next year’s display. >> Plant tulip bulbs now to prevent Tulip Fire infection. >> Plant up a terracotta pot of hyacinth bulbs for a simple but stunning display next spring. >> Plant out spring bedding displays of pansies, violas and primulas. >> Start to plant bare-root roses - they can be planted any time between now and March. >> Plant heathers, grasses and trailing ivy in pots for winter colour. >> Gather up fallen leaves from around the base of rose bushes which suffered from blackspot or rust this summer, to reduce the chance of infection next year. >> Cut back the yellowing foliage of herbaceous perennials, and lift and divide overcrowded clumps to maintain their vigour. >> Before the birds eat them all, cut a few stems of holly with berries for making Christmas garlands. Stand them in a bucket of water in a sheltered spot where our feathered friends can’t take them.

If you haven’t already aerated your lawn, there’s still time to do it before winter sets in. You can use either a lawn aerator or simply insert a garden fork at regular intervals and lean it back slightly to let air in.

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>> Continue to clear fallen leaves off the lawn to keep it healthy. >> Remember to set your lawn mower to a higher cut-height for winter. >> Now your beds are clear, try edging your lawn. Lawn edging creates a neat and tidy appearance and makes maintenance easier. >> Try gathering your leaves on to the lawn and mow them with a rotary mower that has a collection box on the back. They will rot down quicker in your compost bins!

Now that the jobs are underway in the garden our attentions turn to the various Christmas events which will be held at Bradley, such as ladies’ Christmas luncheons, a champagne supper and late night shopping events, but the most important visitor to Bradley will be Santa Claus who is hosting tea in the glass house. So even though the garden is passing over it still must be looking its best throughout the winter season. www.bradley-gardens.co.uk

NOV/DEC15

BOW WOW FACTOR

POSH POOCHES with Alfie, helped by Elysia Agnew

Luxe’s very own pooch is preparing for the winter weather and the festive goings on this season. The saying goes ‘you can’t teach an old dog new tricks’, but Alfie is trying his best to keep his cool and as the house fills with family and friends this Christmas. All very exciting!

He’s looking forward to his advent calendar this year, filled with festive treats and doggy delicacies. He has a sheepskin rug on his wish-list to keep him cosy this Christmas and hopes for a nice waterproof coat for his winter walks. Despite being 7-years-old, Alfie likes to play hide and seek with the lovely little Christmas decorations that sit at the bottom of the tree. Every year the bottom branches tend to look suspiciously bare and when the gardener returns come springtime, guess what he finds dug behind the conifers?

Alfie and his girlfriend Bella are preparing for a tour of the Scottish Highlands this November. His first over-the-border trip!

Taking countryside to a whole new level, he can’t wait for the Highland hikes, riverside runs and maybe even some poochy pub time along the way to rest and re-fuel.

Wrap up warm as we step into winter and enjoy lots of festive fun with your fourlegged friends.

Alfie, your Luxe Pooch x

Luxe Pooch Q&A LUXE WALKS >> My favourite place for walks is the path that runs along the golf course.

I find lots of golf balls and usually find something to bring home and add to my collection.

DOGGY DOWNTIME >> I love to snuggle up on the sofa between mum and dad and if I’m putting on my cute eyes I sometimes get a cuddle on their bed.

Little Henry is a cheeky cocker spaniel from Ingleby Barwick. He’s a trickster who keeps everyone on their toes and who enjoys a cuddle with mum and dad Malcolm and Karen.

HOUND HABBITS >> I have to have my scrambled egg as soon as I have had my early morning walk, and I love to pinch things so that mum and dad play chase with me.

POOCH’S PERFECT DAY OUT >> I love a trip to Saltburn with one of my girlfriends Dotty, a cocker spaniel from

Guisborough. We run for hours and swim in the sea. If I’m lucky I get some fish and chips and even ice cream too!

PUPPY PAMPER >> I am only 10 months old so I haven’t been to a doggy salon yet but I like getting brushed, mainly because I get treats for being a good boy. Do these salon places do treats?

PUPPY A-LISTER. WHO WOULD YOUR POOCH BE IF THEY WERE A CELEBRITY? >> Maybe my likeness to an ‘A Lister’ or a celeb would be Madonna as I love to get my paws on mum’s bras and once somehow managed to get in the arm holes so it looked like I was wearing it!!

Or my mum calls me and my dad Malcolm and Wise because she says we are a double act.

s e v o l e i f l A

>> Pooch in preparation…

Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass… And there’s no need to with this super cute Cousteau Neoprene gilet. Pooch will stand out from the crowd in the park. Made from the same fabric as wet suits, you may not have plans to venture undersea with your dog this winter, but this pet-friendly parka will certainly have them prepared for the weather. www.alicefoxx.com

>> Hanbury Manor Marriot And Country Club Hanbury Manor Marriot Hotel and Country Club is the perfect and most luxurious doggy friendly escape. Set amidst acres of fields and greenery, this country escape offers breath-taking views and plenty of exciting walks for your pooch to stretch its paws.

The Hertfordshire stately home is a top weekend getaway location with its contemporary spa facilities and its award-winning golf course. But, this paradise is now beginning to attract a new type of clientele. This doggy friendly holiday will give your pooch access to the deluxe drawing room, bedrooms and the lobby. www.marriott.co.uk

>> Dog tired Add an adorable doggy touch to your home décor this winter with this Scottie Dog Cushion from Harrods’ Signature collection.

For you and your pooch to cosy up on the sofa. www.harrods.com

>> Oh, bow This Digby tweed bow tie by Love My Dog will have your hound looking dapper. www.store.styletails.com

Don’t forget to send in pics of your pooch’s holidays and days out via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/luxemag Twitter: @TheLuxeMagazine OR @LuxeyPooch Instagram: theluxemagazine

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LUXE LOCAL

Leyburn The Yorkshire Dales market town is only about 15 minutes from the A1 yet you feel miles away from everything. It’s a bustling, characterful place which retains Yorkshire gutsiness and a no-nonsense approach to life. Surrounded by unrivalled countryside. Definitely a destination to escape to. reasonably easy to get to - as long as the weather is kind.

You can take a dramatic drive from Richmond to take in great sky-high peak views. Your nearest mainline station is Thirsk or Northallerton and airport, LeedsBradford.

SHOP >> Something for everyone. Do some food shopping at Cambells, which has some very upmarket foodstuffs and a great wine department. They have great local game, sausages, bacon and cheeses to stock up on.

There are some chic little gift shops. Serendipity is the place to OD on Emma Bridgewater pots as well as luxurious linens and soft furnishings, cards and gifts.

Emma Sedman Jewellery Gallery sells contemporary handmade jewellery and gifts and you can pick up nice things for the home at Quaint & Quirky.

Milners of Leyburn is the place to swoon over lovely fabrics for interiors. The business was started in 1883 when draper Christopher Milner had a ‘Selfridge moment’ even before Mr S, with a vision to bring fashionable items to Wensleydale. Today the store sells brands such as Joules, White Stuff and and Seasalt and has a large interior design department.

On the outskirts of Leyburn, it’s worth a trip to Tennants auction rooms, not only to take in a sale of anything from a Morris Minor to a work of fine art but to have a look at the gift shop which has some cool stuff.

PROPERTIES >> Stone cottages with thick walls make lovely weekend boltholes and you can pick them up for a good price. The town itself has properties of all ages - including lots of relatively suburban 1930s semis and some new builds round the edges. There are large country houses and low-slung farm building conversions that make the most of some of the best views in the country.

CONNECTED >> Leyburn is only about 15 minutes from the A1 and

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FOOD >> Enjoy cakes, mags and sofas in the many cafes in the town.

In Leyburn itself there are plenty of coffee shops Serendipity is popular - and a line-up of good-looking pubs where you can sit back and enjoy a pint of Black Sheep and a Yorkshire pud.

The restaurant Thirteen features ‘a taste of ox’ on its menu.

Its chef has worked at the acclaimed Blue Lion at West Witton and the Black Swan, Helmsley.

If you’re staying for a while, on the outskirts find the

Wensleydale Heifer and a Luxe favourite, Yorebridge House at Bainbridge.

In these parts there are also some decent farm shops to seek out. Check out Berry’s Farm Shop with its own butchery. Outside there are llamas and pet pigs. The Wensleydale Creamery in Hawes is also worth a visit for a tour of the dairy and then a good cheese platter to follow.

Wensleydale, in particular the town of Middleham, is renowned for its famous racehorses - a great sight as they make their way to the gallops every morning

STROLL >> Leyburn is a perfect base for your walking holiday. There are walks directly from the town centre in every direction, including walks to Bolton Castle, Redmire, Jervaulx Abbey, West Witton, Middleham Castle and Bolton Hall. Many of the walks take in Leyburn Shawl with panoramic views of rolling Wensleydale towards Penhill and the Coverdale Fells.

Leyburn Tourist Information Centre has a series of walking leaflets, books and maps.

With the kids, Middleham Castle is a great place to play knights and warriors or Forbidden Corner is a mysterious and unique fun folly.

This is also the land of the racehorse. Wensleydale, in particular the town of Middleham is renowned for its history and famous racehorses. The horses are a great sight as they make their way to the gallops on the High Moor every morning.

NOV/DEC15

AT HOME

property: three to choose Animal farm Goat House and Piggery are in the mix at South View, a double-fronted, stone built property in Thornton Rust. Your back garden has a panoramic view of the Dales.

£650,000

PROPERTY WATCH WITH DUNCAN YOUNG

www.gscgrays.co.uk

Big views Dating back to 1889, a four-bedroomed converted chapel with view to the heavens.

£415,000 www.gscgrays.co.uk

No waiting Once the station to the now famous Wensleydale Railway, the house adjoins the former ‘waiting rooms’ and gardens which include the south platform.

£350,000 www.gscgrays.co.uk

my local Jane Tennant is a director at Tennants Auctioneers in Leyburn, part of the fourth generation of the family to be involved in the business. Jane grew up in Middleham, studied and worked in both Durham and London before returning to Yorkshire in 2012.

Jane was one of the youngest female auctioneers in the country.

Three good things about living here >> Leyburn is a bustling market town with an abundance of independent retailers – you can get everything from homewares and interior decoration, to women’s fashion and locally supplied butchers. It’s great to live in a town that is thriving, where the local people support the local shops.

Great food options, from quaint cafes and bistros, to Indian and Chinese restaurants.

For a local ale you’re spoilt for choice with a collection of traditional pubs.

Leyburn is a great place to base yourself for access to the Yorkshire Dales National park and all the wonderful walks and activities that includes. There are so many good walks from the town centre. Just ask and someone will point you in the right direction.

Three things to do with visitors >> I’m biased but I would say Tennants is one of them. There are always visiting artists and exhibitions, auctions and public events.

A great way to see the local countryside is to hop on the Wensleydale Railway; trains run from Leyburn up to Redmire and then back down to Northallerton, and if you go on a weekend they operate live steam trains which all the family will enjoy.

For those who appreciate gardens rather than wild countryside, I’d recommend visiting Constable Burton Hall – a Grade I listed Georgian mansion set in woodland, with terraced and walled gardens. It’s two miles out of Leyburn but well worth a visit. The house and gardens are still privately owned by the Wyvill Family.

An ‘in the know’ secret >> One of my favourite places to visit is Bolton Castle, nestled in the Wensleydale countryside; there is a beautiful six-mile walk from Leyburn town centre up ‘the shawl’, taking in the scenes and views across the hills and vales along the way. Legend has it that Mary Queen of Scots, who was imprisoned at Bolton Castle, dropped her shawl when fleeing to Leyburn… but you’ll have to read the information signs along the way to find out if this true or not. Bolton is one of the best examples of a medieval castle and with wild boar, archery demonstrations and birds of prey you should definitely go and take in the history.

WHAT MAKES ESTATE AGENTS DIFFERENT? The world of estate agency has changed considerably over the last decade, most notably in terms of IT and social media.

With nearly 70% of viewings created via the internet, it is obvious that our website remains the most important link that we have to the public.

We have invested hundreds of thousands of pounds in the website over recent years, and we are extensively complimented about its effectiveness and efficiency.

Our site is staffed in real time, 24 hours a day, and clients have been amazed that on Christmas day they have had an email response back acknowledging their request for action.

The website is auto responsive, and therefore it shrinks and expands to the size of the device that is looking at our pages. This is a particularly important point since more than 50% who view the Sanderson Young website do so on a mobile device - from a handheld telephone to an iPad. This is a big change in the last two years from laptops and desktop computers.

Clients using Sanderson Young appreciate the strength of the website and the images it displays, as well as the ease of reference to be able to find what they are looking for as quickly as possible.

New social media is also rapidly expanding, and our agency has one of the highest and most popular Facebook pages within the region. We are continuing to develop this further, as we are with other aspects including Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.

A number of estate agents recently have imitated our style and our design and this is complimentary to us and somewhat flattering; however, their imitation is only skin deep since the most important aspect when choosing an estate agent still needs to be their ability to negotiate and sell your property, or negotiate your rental at the best price possible.

At Sanderson Young every office has a team of people who have worked together in the property business for a very long time. All of our senior people have between 20 and 40 years of experience individually and this enables us to accurately guide, direct and help our clients achieve the very best levels of service.

The business has to be thorough; we verify everything and believe nothing; it is essential that our actions are checked and that we constantly review and reassess the requirements of our buyers on a regular basis.

Some agents charge a fee to list a house on to their books and I am constantly amazed how many clients think that they can save an estate agent’s normal commission, as they simply need to be listed on the internet. A good estate agent is worth their weight in gold and with houses varying in value by between 5% and 20% of an asking price, an agent who can negotiate and see a sale through to completion as smoothly as possible, and at the best price possible, is essential.

The main portal websites of Rightmove and On The Market are useful in representing large numbers of properties for sale, but our own website www.sandersonyoung.co.uk is, undoubtedly, the best tool we have, ensuring enquiries come to us, so the staff within our offices translate that initial enquiry, and build a rapport, to ensure that we give the very best level of service to our clients.

NOT ALL estate agents are the same; there are significant differences and I can only ask clients when considering who to sell their property with, to thoroughly test your local agent and to mystery shop their services as if you were a buyer looking to purchase a house from them. Only then will you experience what we believe to be the exceptional service at Sanderson Young.

We very much look forward to working with our past, current and future clients and we certainly will rise up to the challenge to ensure that we remain the most effective and reputable agent within the region.

Duncan G Young Dip.Est.Man.FNAEA, Managing Director, Sanderson Young duncan.young@sandersonyoung.co.uk 0191 223 3500

NOV/DEC15

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SELLING THE REGION’S FINEST HOMES

West Fell

Ladycutter Lane, Corbridge West Fell, dating back to 1896, is a stunning property with a magnificent aspect overlooking the Tyne Valley. This six bedroom country house, a fine example of late Victorian architecture, shows potential for updating but has many superb rooms and features. It enjoys two acres of formal grounds, circa 16.5 acres of grazing paddocks, a two bedroom detached cottage and a variety of outbuildings, stabling and barns. EPC: F

Guide Price: £1.2 Million

Jesmond Park West Newcastle

A highly impressive double fronted semi detached house constructed in the early 1900s and occupying a prime location. The six bedroom property has been extensively renovated to a very high standard and has a beautifully fitted contemporary kitchen, luxurious bathrooms, high ceilings, plaster cornicing works and superb interior design. The gardens include lawned areas, a dining area, and a children’s soft play area. EPC: C

Guide Price: £995,000

From Sanderson Young ALL CONFIDENTIAL ENQUIRIES TO 0191 223 3500 OR EMAIL: DUNCAN.YOUNG@SANDERSONYOUNG.CO.UK | WWW.SANDERSONYOUNG.CO.UK

SELLING THE REGION’S FINEST HOMES

Whinfell Road

Darras Hall, Ponteland An impressive five/six bedroom modern detached house occupying a lovely, private garden site accessed via electric double timber gates. The superb family home has a great feeling of space and light and has been refurbished by the current owners to a very high standard throughout with a fabulous ‘Herrington Gate’ fitted kitchen opening to the attractive, south facing gardens and terraces. EPC: C

Guide Price: £895,000

Inkles Haugh

Stable Green, Mitford, Morpeth Nestled in the heart of this historic village, Inkles Haugh is an immaculate detached family house offering well laid out four bedroomed accommodation.

Surrounded by a well-kept, pretty garden the house has the benefit of river views with a delightful terrace overlooking it. Built in 1989 and commissioned by the current owners, the house has been beautifully finished to the highest standard, retaining much character. EPC: E

Guide Price: £775,000

From Sanderson Young ALL CONFIDENTIAL ENQUIRIES TO 0191 223 3500 OR EMAIL: DUNCAN.YOUNG@SANDERSONYOUNG.CO.UK | WWW.SANDERSONYOUNG.CO.UK

local, regional, national and international specialists in property marketing

TUDHOE HOUSE, TUDHOE VILLAGE

£695,000

REDUCED FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY, a once in a lifetime opportunity to acquire what is possibly the area’s most magnificent Grade II Listed six bedroom Georgian Manor House.

THE HAYLOFT, HALLGARTH MANOR FARM, HIGH PITTINGTON

Contact: 0191 384 2277

£699,000

This four bedroom barn has been renovated to the highest standard to provide generous family living space.

The Hayloft lies to the rear of Hallgarth Manor within an exclusive development of the former farm buildings.

BURNSIDE GRANARY, RUSHYFORD

Contact: 0191 384 2277

£750,000

The good life beckons at Burnside Granary, a stunning and unique self-contained property. An ideal property for an equestrian family, there are six acres of fenced paddocks, a rubber and fibre ménage and stables.

Wynyard 01740 645 444

Tyne Valley 0845 459 6000

Contact: 0191 384 2277

Newcastle 0845 459 6000

Durham 0191 384 2277

Cumbria 0845 872 5453

residing@fineandcountry.com

info@durhamfineandcountry.co.uk info@wynyardfineandcountry.co.uk residing@fineandcountry.com cumbria@fineandcountry.com

creative and intelligent marketing of individual and country property

...300 offices worldwide

THE KENNELS, WYNYARD

£495,000

The Kennels stands in its own grounds, surrounded by mature trees, and reached through a private gated entrance.

The property is deceptively generous and flexible enough in its layout to suit a variety of configurations.

BEDE REST, DURHAM CITY

£625,000

The four bedroom listed property was built around 1916 in an elevated location that gives direct and uninterrupted views, framed by trees, of the World Heritage Site cathedral, castle and Penshaw Monument.

BEECHWAYS, WHITESMOCKS, DURHAM CITY

Northumberland 0845 459 6000

sales@fineandcountry-lakes.co.ul

info@durhamfineandcountry.co.uk

Contact: 0191 384 2277

£1.1 million

A single storey five bedroomed property located in Durham City. Significant extension and modernisation has created a leisure wing with superb facilities and a separate self - contained 2 bedroomed bungalow is located in the grounds.

Lakes 01539 733 500

Contact: 0191 384 2277

Contact: 0191 384 2277

www.fineandcountry.com Head office: 121 Park Lane, Mayfair, London WIK 7AG.

WINE-D DOWN

Cheers to a grand design A wine-drinker’s paradise, the Marqués de Riscal hotel is surrounded by its own vineyards in Rioja. Ken Snowden drinks in the atmosphere You see just a glimpse of them at first. As you get closer you still can’t quite believe your eyes. The backdrop is splendid enough - the Spanish medieval town of Elciego with its magnificent Saint Andrés church high on the hill - but it’s what sits in front that causes you to look again. Giant curls of pastel coloured titanium ribbons perch on top of what looks like a topsy-turvy ultra-modern building. Nothing seems to be built straight. There are huge sloping windows, canopies, terraces, angled beams and girders. The roof reflects the sun so that it seems to be mischievously winking at you as you drive towards it.

This is the Marqués de Riscal hotel, surrounded by its own vineyards in the Rioja region, and it’s outrageously wonderful. It looks fabulously out of place for a second

Some vintages in their cellars are so old, they’re opened by cutting off the top of the bottle because the cork is so fragile 88

but the closer you get, the more magnificent and less incongruous it becomes. Frank Gehry, the famous American architect responsible for many important public buildings (Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum is one of his) is the man who designed it. You get the impression he had enormous fun.

I’m told that at first Frank’s people weren’t interested, on the grounds that Mr. Gehry only did grand buildings of a higher purpose (and presumably somewhere to stay wasn’t one of them). However he eventually decided to take a look and after some enthusiastic wine sampling (including a wine from 1929, the year he was born) he set about creating the building I’m now parking in front of.

The 3,000 square metres of multicoloured corrugated titanium represent a flamenco dancer’s dress in motion. The three colours - reddish pink, gold and silver represent the colour of Marqués de Riscal wine, the net that encloses the bottles and the cap. When you stop looking at the outside and step inside, you find Frank didn’t stop at the building. Gehry’s sketches hang on the walls and he even designed the lampshades to represent the clouds hugging the top of the Cantabric mountains that fringe this area.

Stuart and Patricia have come here from New Zealand. Pat likes the wine but for structural engineer Stuart, it’s the building itself that’s the attraction. “It’s an extraordinary place” he says looking up at the roof supports “and

I just had to come and see it”.

Personally I also came for the food. Francis Paniego, the first Riojan chef to receive a Michelin star, acts as a consultant to the two restaurants here and Jose Ramón Piñeiro is the chef here who interprets Paniego’s cuisine. He’s rated as one of Spain’s most promising young chefs and in 2011 the restaurant got its first Michelin Star.

Every dish on the tasting menu tells a story.

A bowl of food called Sarmientos (branches) is placed in front of me, made mostly of cheese straws but looking exactly like blackened sticks in a slow burning fire. This evokes the pruning of the Riojan vines at the start of the year when the branches are collected and dried. In the summer they’re used to cook the traditional lamb cutlets (more on this later) or to make charcoal.

Then there’s Hierba Fresca (fresh grass) which takes its inspiration from the Sierra Cantabria mountains in the background, where the vineyards give way to the green meadows. The base is a sheep cream cheese, and on top is frozen steak tartar powder and fresh herb powder. It`s surrounded by a foam of smoked, sheep`s milk and is absolutely delicious.

Culetillas a la Brasa are chops of roast suckling lamb under a glass dome housing BBQ smoke. Taking it away leaves the smell of the barbeque and the taste of lamb.

Simply superb.

One of two desserts is called Grapes Under The Ice where grapes are lightly cooked over wine so they infuse with the flavour of the liquid without altering the shape of the grape. Hidden underneath is a wine and red fruits ice cream. It’s all a work of art and local inspiration.

As a counterpoint I also tried Bistro 1860.

It’s less formal but also offers traditional, fresh and local cuisine like Croquettes which are Jose’s mum’s recipe. Sitting outdoors overlooking Elciego with the Cantabrian mountains as a backdrop I enjoyed Iberian bellota ham which melts slightly in your mouth into a meaty unctuous jelly that tastes superb and as you swallow seems to pinch where your jaw meets your cheeks (but in a nice, nice way); suckling lamb cutlets that were soft and delicious, and pork trotters. These were nothing like the real thing to look at, but everything like the real thing to taste, with its soft flavoursome meat surrounded by a slightly sticky and delicious skin.

Throughout all the food is the chance to drink Marqués de Riscal (I really like their Limousin white and the Rioja Gran Reserva, both of which are aged in oak casks the latter for three years and at least another three in the bottle). Their winery is one of the oldest in La Rioja and recently celebrated its 150th anniversary. The oldest part dates back to 1858 and they were extended in

NOV/DEC15

WINE-D DOWN

1883. Some vintages in their cellars are so old, they’re opened by cutting off the top of the bottle because the cork is so fragile.

There’s about 40,000 barrels here and at 225 litres per barrel, that’s a lot of wine. The buildings that house them are not underground but kept at a constant temperature and humidity thanks to the thick sandstone walls. Supplying the raw materials for the wine, the vineyards of Marqués de Riscal wrap around the building.

1,500 hectares is about 3,000 football pitches so you can understand why they call this the City of Wine. The hotel will organise a wine tour and tasting for you. In fact grapes are everywhere here – growing, fermenting and even being applied to your skin. The Caudalie Vinothérapie Spa Marqués de Riscal will treat you to anything from a barrel bath to body wraps and scrubs using Merlot and Cabernet grapes. I was attracted

NOV/DEC15

to the ‘Pulpe Friction’ treatment purely on the strength of the pun.

The staff are helpful and friendly without being cloyingly obsequious. All 45 rooms and suites have a distinctive style, HUGE bathrooms and – for the most part – terrific views. I guess the attention to detail is summed up by the menu listing 11 types of pillow. I went for the Emerald side sleeper pillow with 23 ounce pure Hungarian goose down. I wanted to take it home.

So how to get here? Well I kind of ate and drank well throughout that part of the trip too.

Brittany Ferries will bring you here, sailing from both Portsmouth and Plymouth to Santander and Bilbao. I started the trip with a glass of champagne, watched the Cornish coast pass by through the huge porthole windows in the bar, and plotted dinner.

There are a choice of restaurants for every

pocket. I tried the Le Flora restaurant. The food here is excellent and the prices very good indeed. The seafood buffet is impressive and delicious with smoked salmon, king prawns and langoustines all set out like a giant picnic. Eating next to one of the big windows as you sail smoothly over the water is one of life’s pleasures.

There’s also a lot to do beyond eating. You can sunbathe, swim in a small pool, gamble in a casino, go to the cinema, listen to a band or watch a clown fold long balloons into cute animals (it helps if you have a child alongside for that last one).

Next morning it’s a splendid mix of full English breakfast on a French ferry and a light lunch as it approaches Spain. There’s something special about arriving somewhere by ship. I watched as we moved slowly into Santander, past sandbanks that made it look as if we’d run aground at any minute, before berthing right in the centre of town.

From Santander it’s about a two-hour drive to the Marqués de Riscal through some of the most stunning countryside in Spain.

Thanks to Frank O Gehry there’s another stunning feature waiting for you at journey’s end.

FACTFILE Marqués de Riscal www.hotel-marquesderiscal.com/en Brittany Ferries www.brittanyferries.com

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XXXXXXXX BIGGER LUXE

WELCOME!

>> Pretty in Pink , £45.99, le-mu.co.uk

Fairy dust, sweet treats and diary dates...

Mum keeps telling me it’s ages away but I know the truth.

Christmas is coming – in fact it’s just around the corner! Lots to do before then, writing lists, rewriting lists and making mischief and magic.

Little Luxe x

with Nina Robinson

Storm in a tea dress I always love to see two sisters dressed in exactly the same outfits – I think it looks so cute! Well, now mummies can go one step further and dress their daughters in the same gorgeous outfit as THEMSELVES thanks to the imaginative designers at Bryony and Co. The creations of designer Bryony Richardson have graced the Little Luxe pages on a number of occasions but I’m pleased to say there’s a lot to report on this special little family business that started in Yarm and has now expanded to London. Originally known as Poppy, the company has now rebranded as Bryony and Co. after its founder and its winter collection is as dreamy as ever.

Just look at the gorgeous Snowstorm collection! Imagine dressing for Christmas Day in the same outfit as mum or heading out to a family party dressed like two sisters!

Like all of the outfits at Bryony, each one is based on a children’s story and comes with its own book so you can not only read it but wear the story too. The winter collection is based on the Hairy Scary Mammoth and you can see the detail of the story playing out around the hem.

You can buy the collection at Jam and Jelly in Durham or visit bryonyandco.com for the full range.

‘Twas the night before Christmas The countdown to Christmas demands some very special sleepwear. Cosy, comfy and celebratory. Hatley, makers of my favourite raincoats and wellies, has a fab new range of nightwear for boys and girls. Take a look at a few of my faves. >> Lighten up onesie, £24, polar bear paws slippers, £15, ski bum onesie, £24, hatley.com/en_uk

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>> Women’s Freda Snowstorm dress £140.83, Girl’s Millie Snowstorm dress £58.29, women’s Mary Snowstorm skirt £79.92

Christmas confections Le Mu’s collection of Christmas confections! Check out Pretty in Pink with its glittering sequins and layers of dreaminess.

Le Mu is a new UK brand specialising in occasionwear and accessories for little luxes aged two to nine. I love the fact that each outfit comes with its own gift bag and dress cover – how very princess.

Got to go!

There’s nothing quite like the story of The Nutcracker to get the festive mood started. Northern Ballet is bringing a sparking show to Newcastle Theatre Royal from 10 – 14 November and I’ll definitely be in the audience waiting to be dazzled. There’s also a ballet specially aimed at children, The Elves and the Shoemaker, which runs on 13 November. >> www.theatreroyal.co.uk

Add a hedgehog to your Christmas list!

Did you know hedgehogs are currently disappearing from the British countryside as fast as tigers are worldwide? I was really sad to learn that. Whenever I feel a bit sad I ask mum to look up pictures of cute baby hedgehogs to cheer me up and I’m a massive fan of Mrs Tiggywinkle in my Beatrix Potter books. Well fear not! The lovely people at Northumberland Wildlife Trust are on a mission to save our quirky, snuffly friends and have launched a new campaign just in time for your Christmas list! Why not ask Santa for a membership to the Trust for all kinds of wildlife treats, including a booklet called The Loneliest Hedgehog in the North East. >> Find out more at nwt.org.uk/hedgehog

NOV/DEC15

golf:kit Sunshine places and recommedations from a pro.

STAY, PLAY, SPA >> Get sunshine golf on the Med at Sicily’s Verdura Resort where you’ll hit on fivestar golf and luxurious cliff-top spa surroundings Designed by world-famous golf architect Kyle Phillips, Verdura’s golf courses offer uninterrupted views of sparkling azure waters.

Host venue for the Sicilian Open in 2012 and set in 230 hectares of stunning landscape, Verdura – features two outstanding 18-hole championship courses. The three links-style layouts offer a golf experience to remember and here you’ll find extensive practice facilities including a double-ended driving range and golf academy.

Away from the fairways, guests can enjoy numerous other sports and leisure facilities including six tennis courts, a 60m two-tiered infinity pool, a 170sqm fully-equipped gym and an award-winning 4,000sqm spa complex and an authentic taste of traditional Sicily with an array of locally-sourced dishes at one of Verdura’s four restaurants. www.roccofortehotels.com

CALLING THE SHOTS >> Golf Pro, Graeme Storm calls Rockliffe Hall home and has to be biased when it comes to his favourite place to play.

Storm’s had a great year qualifying for next year’s Tour and while he’s got some time off for travelling his thoughts turn to awaydays at other courses in the county.

These are some of his favourites elsewhere: Royal County Down, Co Down This has got to be at the top of my list as it’s a fantastic course. I happened to win The Amateur here!

Woodhall Spa (Hotchkin), Lincs Inland courses don’t come much better than this – a great course where I particularly love the way it’s bunkered.

The sand traps are very deep and penal.

Turnberry (Ailsa), Ayrshire Arguably the most attractive links on the mainland. A great Open venue and the 9th by the lighthouse starts a memorable stretch.

Muirfield, East Lothian I love the feel of it here. Part of a stretch of East Lothian links known as Scotland’s Golf Coast, but the home of the Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers is the best.

Royal Lytham & St Annes, Lancs Another top links. Although not right on the coast it’s a fabulous layout among the houses. The 1st to 3rd along the railway line are superb.

OH BOY >> >> The gift of super clean privates. Below the Belt Grooming skincare set is £19.95. Perfect for sporty types, it includes Fresh & Dry gel, Waterless Shower and Sports Lubricant for the sore bits. www.btbgrooming.co.uk

NOV/DEC15

CLOSE SHAVES

THE MAN CORNER WITH REEF SALONS

Movember is with us. A month of hair-raising challenges to raise awareness of men’s health issues such as: • Prostate Cancer - the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men in the UK • Testicular Cancer - the most common cancer in men aged 25-49 • Mental health - on average, 13 men each day take their life by suicide in the UK If you’re thinking about leading the charge this year, remember there’s strength in numbers. Assemble your crew of Mo Bros and Mo Sistas to work together as one united force. Enlist your friends, family and coworkers to join your team. There’s plenty of time to get growing...

THE HARD PART Growth: Growing a moustache and getting past the itchy stage is usually make or break time for most men. To prevent the itch use oil or balm, rub into the moustache and use a small amount of force to get good coverage on the skin beneath. Use a Mo comb to relieve small itches, this will not only calm the itch it will also start to train your moustache to grow in a clean and tidy direction.

HAVE FUN

Ganton, Yorkshire It’s not long but it’s still an awesome course – it’s fraught with danger and you’ve got to be so straight... or else. If the wind is blowing it’s really tough. I love going back there.

Sunningdale, Surrey Both the Old and New are awesome – although if I have a preference it would be the New. If I had the chance to play anywhere every day this would be it.

Moortown, Yorkshire I’ve played in the Brabazon Trophy around here and I’ve good memories of the place. Plotted in a fabulous heathland setting, Moortown is an old-fashioned, treelined layout.

St Andrews (Old Course), Fife How can I leave out the Home of Golf? For me, the Old Course has it all, including a world-famous finishing stretch of holes heading back towards the town itself. It’s the course where the hairs on my neck stand on end. www.todaysgolfer.co.uk

Styling: To style your moustache whether it be a abracadabra connoisseur or a more natural style, take a small amount of moustache wax and rub between the thumb and index finger to warm the wax and make it pliable enough for application. Work the wax starting from the middle of the moustache (under the nose) right out to the tips.

LOOKING GOOD Maintenance: One good tip to maintain the look of your moustache is to keep the rest of the face clean shaven, this leaves your moustache the main focus of your face.

Which one will you be this Movember?

• Mo - moustache • Mo Bro - a man who grows a moustache for Movember, or makes a commitment to MOVE • Mo Sista - a women who loves and encourages Mo growth, or makes a commitment to MOVE • Mo Mentor - men who have shown long-term commitment to Mo style and inspire others in the hairy challenge of Mo growth The vision of Movember To have an everlasting impact on the face of men’s health.

1. Sign up and start clean shaven 2. Grow and groom your moustache during Movember 3. Raise funds and awareness for men’s health Should we all try to be part of this vision? The man corner at reef salons says ‘yes’!

Reef Durham, Ramside Hall Hotel and Country Club, Durham, Co. Durham DH1 1TD. 0191 386 3055 www.reefsalons.co.uk

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LUXE LIFE

ANGELA CHARLTON Head of Junior School at Newcastle High School for Girls, Angela describes her job as ‘lighting a touch paper and watching as the girls’ natural curiosity is sparked and their confidence soars’ LUXE PEOPLE >> My family from whom I draw my strength. They are a constant, always there for me; a safe haven.

LUXE PLACES >> For a weekend > George V Paris. Pure luxury and fabulous memories.

A long holiday > Anywhere with a beautiful beach, sunshine and a little bit of culture around the corner.

LUXE RELAX >> Best food > Sunday lunch cooked by my lovely mum, Ruby.

Best wine > Red would be Chateauneuf-du-Pape. White, an ice cold glass of prosecco.

Favourite Restaurant > Le Grande Cascade, Bois de Boulogne, Paris Perfect weekend > Bamburgh every time!

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Downtime means > Wandering around an art gallery. It always inspires me to pick up a paintbrush.

Best telly > A classic black and white film on a rainy weekend afternoon.

Best Theatre > I adore the ballet; Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake at Theatre Royal was spectacular.

Best Book > It has to be Jane Eyre. Jane taught me that the possibilities for life are endless for those who take risks.

Best sound > Excited children’s voices as they explore the grounds of our school.

LUXE SHOP >> Best shopping > Newcastle is such a vibrant city, a shopper’s paradise in my view.

Favourite Shop > Either John Lewis or Fenwick – hard to choose.

Luxe retail treat > Relaxing at Redford’s – hair by Graham.

I always leave the salon feeling fabulous.

Best buy > My cottage in Bamburgh.

LUXE PARTY >> A memorable night out > Celebrating my daughter Sophie’s 21st birthday. So proud as her mum to see how she has grown into a confident, happy and strong young woman.

Perfect Party > Yet to come, my sister’s 50th birthday party next March. I can’t wait, it will be a night to remember.

Best Dress > A champagne Max Mara gown I wore to a Tiny Lives Ball that I organised.

Dinner Date > A quiet night with Tony at Motcombs in Belgravia. Fabulous food, great atmosphere and the best company.

LUXE THING IN LIFE >> My garden, on a summer’s evening, with my favourite people.

NOV/DEC15

Two legendary cars.

One epic journey.

Q7 3.0 TDi quattro S-Line Tiptronic Audi Finance Solutions personal contract plan based on 10,000 miles per annum#

Cash Price Customer Deposit Total Amount of Credit Monthly Payments

£53,835.00

£6,955.99 £46,879.01 48 x £599.00

Acceptance Fee (payable with first payment)

£0.00 £10.00

Option to purchase fee** Optional Final Payment

£28,238.75

Total Amount Payable

£63,956.74

Duration of agreement

49 months

Representative APR

6.7%

Rate of Interest (fixed)

TT Coupe 2.0 TDi Sport

Cash Price

Audi Finance Solutions personal contract plan based on 8,000 miles per annum##

Benfield Deposit

Customer Deposit Total Amount of Credit Monthly Payments

6.74%

£27,191.00

£2,818.00 £2,000.00 £22,372.90 36 x £299.00 £125.00

Acceptance Fee*

Option to purchase fee

£60.00

Final Payment

£15,461.25

Total Amount Payable

£31,053.35

Duration of agreement

37 months

Representative APR

6.8%

Rate of Interest (fixed)

6.8%

Newcastle Audi Scotswood Road, Newcastle upon Tyne NE4 7LA 0191 226 1144 www.newcastle.audi.co.uk Teesside Audi Brooklime Avenue, Preston Farm, Stockton on Tees TS18 3UR 01642 603 444 www.teesside.audi.co.uk Tyneside Audi Silverlink Park, Wallsend, Newcastle upon Tyne NE28 9NT 0191 289 6200 www.tyneside.audi.co.uk Wearside Audi Stadium Way (Opposite Stadium of Light), Sunderland SR5 1AT 0191 564 5600 www.wearside.audi.co.uk Cars for illustration purposes only. Retail sales only. *Payable within first payment. **Payable with optional final payment. #10.8p per mile excess mileage charges apply (incl. VAT). ##7.2p per mile excess mileage charges apply (incl. VAT). Further charges may be payable if vehicle is returned. Indemnities may be required. Subject to status. Audi Finance, Freepost Audi Finance. Offer may be varied or withdrawn at any time. Available to over 18s in the UK only. Offer valid until 31st December 2015. Official fuel consumption figures for the range in mpg (1/100km) Urban 48.7-57.6 (4.9-5.8), Extra Urban 64.2- 74.3 (3.8-4.4), Combined 57.6 -67.3 (4.2-4.9), CO2 112-118 g/km.

DRIVETIME

AT THE WHEEL Motors man Bob Arora plays with some serious cars

A friend electric With the price of petrol only going one way, it was only a matter of time before manufacturers looked at alternative power sources. When diesel engines were first introduced, people predicted they would never sell as they were slow and very noisy but recent technological achievements have made diesel-powered cars not only economical but also extremely refined. A few cars I have been lucky enough to drive recently are exempt from road tax as they are so efficient.

Before everyone jumped on the electric bandwagon the only electric powered vehicles around were either milk floats or mobility scooters! One of the first all electric cars to be launched in the UK was the Nissan Leaf. In the States the Telsa has been a sales phenomenon and it was only a matter of time before BMW introduced a premium electric car.

After seven years of development, BMW have finally launched this cool looking car. I drove the i3 with a range extender, which has both electric power and the added benefit of a small petrol engine. The addition of the petrol engine should stop any electric-range anxiety. The car is fitted with a 2-cylinder engine linked to a 9-litre fuel tank.

The i3’s passenger cell is carbonfibre and the batteries and motors are below the floor. The car has a low centre of gravity along with BMW’s trademark 50/50 weight distribution. The minimal noise levels make the cabin a very soothing environment. BMW have used adventurous materials and thankfully they don’t look or feel cheap at all.

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BMW’s i3 is a strong, silent little number - no performance anxiety here

The car’s cabin space is great thanks to clever styling; the car will seat four adults with ease.

The rear doors won’t open unless you have opened the front doors; only RX8 owners will be used to this feature.

The front seat belts are mounted on the door itself so to let people out of the back you have to undo your seatbelt to open the rear doors.

The car’s boot is very small and with the seats up there is a measly 260ltrs of space but fold the seats and you have 1100ltrs of boot space. The dash is dominated by an iPad style screen, which controls your navigation, heating and radio etc via the idrive control system.

When you drive this car two things will surprise any driver or passenger. The first thing is the total silence when starting the car and the second surprise is the car’s amazing performance. Floor the throttle from the lights and you will whizz past an M3 up to 30mph and then the M3 will retake the lead. The car’s top speed is a not too embarrassing 93mph, however, drive the car hard and prolonged and you will send the battery power plummeting.

The electric-only i3 has a 100-mile range but the addition of the petrol engine limits the car’s electric-only travel to 93 miles. The addition of the petrol engine adds another 93 miles giving the driver a potential range of 186miles.

Driving the car in either Eco or Eco Pro mode will extend the car’s range by a further 15%. Run the car on its official combined cycle and the range extender i3 will average an eye-watering 471mpg.

This impressive figure is achieved by having a fully charged battery and running the range extender motor constantly to keep the battery charged is less efficient. The range

extender is only there as a safety net to get you to your next charging point safely.

With the range extender turned off the i3 becomes a zero efficient vehicle. Charging the car from a domestic socket takes seven hours and gives you an 80% charge, though an AC fast charger can be fitted by BMW for £315 and this charges the battery in three hours.

Two things will surprise. The first is the total silence when starting the car and the second is the car’s amazing performance Recent extensive electric vehicle trails have established an electric only i3 is more than adequate for most drivers. The average daily mileage for most drivers is only 25 miles and the average daily commute is only 13 miles. So an electric only 100-mile range should be more than enough but unfortunately its not. Most people expect their cars to travel 400 miles without refueling and this simply isn’t possible yet.

BMW have managed to bring a real desirability to the electric car market and the car already has waiting lists.

With its amazing running costs it is easy to see why people are predicting the electric car revolution is definitely here to stay. When you see BMW’s next electric car the i8 it’s easy to see why the electric car is here to stay!

NOV/DEC15

LUXE LOVES

LUXE LOVES The need for speed Ah, one for your wish-list. Lamborghini’s Huracan LP610-4, a cool £187,496 www.stratstone.com

THE NEW BMW 7 SERIES. DRIVING LUXURY.

The new BMW 7 Series

The Ultimate Driving Machine

The new BMW 7 Series incorporates exquisitely crafted design, enhanced levels of comfort and an extensive range of pioneering technology, which have all led to it being hailed as the most innovative car in its class.

LLOYD NEWCASTLE

Barrack Road, Newcastle Upon Tyne Tyne and Wear NE2 4LE 0191 2617366 www.lloydnewcastlebmw.co.uk

Official fuel economy figures for the new BMW 7 Series Saloon range: Urban 24.8-51.4mpg (11.4-5.5l/100km). Extra Urban 45.6-67.3mpg (6.2-4.2l/100km). Combined 34.9-60.1mpg (8.1-4.7l/100km). CO2 emissions 189-124g/km. Figures may vary depending on driving style and conditions.

33589_115688_Lloyd_Newcastle_7SER_Ad_216x157.indd 1

NOV/DEC15

23/10/2015 15:03

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DRIVETIME

Here’s to Infiniti

The Infiniti Q50 is car that plays wolf in sheep’s clothing; Bob Arora manages to beat quite a few boy racers at the lights...

As a car manufacturer, Infiniti doesn’t trip off the tongue very quickly in this country. Yet in the US, it’d rank in the top five. When you consider Infiniti was originally launched 25 years ago, the company does not have much brand awareness in the UK at all. In a valiant attempt to take on the Germans at their own game, Nissan, Toyota and Honda all launched premium brands. As I have mentioned before, in America they have managed to outsell their competitors by making their cars not only look great but also by packing them with technology and the trump card?

Excellent reliability.

Infiniti was originally launched in Europe about eight years ago; they launched the Q45 which looked very nice. This smart looking car didn’t put Infiniti on the map but now Infiniti is here with a bang. Thanks to clever F1 sponsorship with the Red Bull team they are also looking to enter a car into the BTTC (British Touring Car Championship).

They have also invested heavily into the design of their dealerships, which look amazing; as soon as you walk into the showroom the place just screams quality. Thankfully, for a change, Infiniti have chosen our very own local supergroup Vertu to lead the charge in spreading the word about this company.

The car I decided to try first is the stunning looking Q50; this car is firmly aimed at the BMW 3 series. This lucrative market is sewn up by the big three German manufacturers.

These cars will carry reps up and down the country and they need to be reliable, economical and just a nice place to be covering those miles. The Q50 definitely looks the part with great curvy styling and optional 19” alloys. The design sets it apart from its German competitors. Infiniti have also launched an all-important Hybrid model. This car is fitted

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with a 3.5lt V6 engine which produces 302bhp and an electric motor which produces 67bhp. The hybrid’s top speed is 155mph and it sprints to 62mph in a very respectable 5.1 seconds. This car is a real wolf in sheep’s clothing; I managed to beat quite a few boy racers away from the lights (much to their annoyance).

This variant is also available with the practicality of four wheel drive. The car should return 45mpg and amazingly it emits the same co2 as the diesel. The hybrid version steals 100 litres of boot space over the diesel model. Two areas where the Q50 is let down are that it is heavier compared to its competitors and the second area is its electric steering. More and more manufacturers are using this new technology but I found it far too light and for one am not a fan, you do not have the same feedback and it feels too vague.

I personally drove the car in sport mode as it made the steering a bit heavier and it felt slightly better. The car I drove was the range-topping Sport model which was fully loaded with specification, from Bose speakers to adaptive cruise control. This applies the brakes if the car thinks you are going to have an accident. The dash is dominated by

an iPad style screen that controls everything from the car’s Sat Nav to its heating.

Some of the switchgear feels a bit cheap and there are too many buttons for my liking. Infiniti still have a lot to learn from both Mercedes and Audi. The new C Class interior and new TT’s interior really set the benchmark in terms of both style and quality.

The Q50 is longer than all of its rivals but considering this it’s quite cramped in the back and the boot is quite an awkward shape, but the rear seats can be folded to increase practicality.

The Q50 is priced from £28,000 and the range topping hybrid model costs £40,000.

The best-selling car in the range is bound to be the diesel but the hybrid’s high price may put many buyers off.

This car really is ideal for someone looking to drive something different and with excellent lease deals available the Infiniti brand is going to be one to watch.

Another model is about or be launched soon called the Q30. This stunning car will help win new customers to the brand and the best news is it will be built at the Nissan plant at Washington, Sunderland.

The Q50 definitely looks the part with great curvy styling and optional 19” alloys. The design sets it apart from its German competitors

NOV/DEC15

The new Infiniti Q30

THE FIRST PREVIEW INFINITI Q30 Born to Challenge

With its sleek and unique design and assistive technologies, discover how the new Infiniti Q30 stands out.

STARTING FROM

£19,780

Infiniti Centre Newcastle Middle Engine Lane, Silverlink Business Park, Newcastle, Tyne and Wear NE28 9NZ Phone: 0191 295 8686 www.infinitinewcastle.com

Infiniti.co.uk #borntochallenge

Model shown: Infiniti Q30 Premium Tech 2.2d DCT, 19” wheels. CO2 consumption between 117g/km and 135 g/km* Mixed fuel consumption between 4.5 g/km and 5.2 g/km* *Official CO2 emission and fuel consumption figures are not available at the time of going to press. Results may not represent real-life driving results (which vary depending on driving behaviour, conditions and other factors).

Q30 available for order from November 2015, and delivery from first quarter 2016.

INFINITI CENTRE NEWCASTLE

5 INSPIRED PERFORMANCE

The distance between your dreams and reality is called action... take a test drive today!

YEARS 0% APR

REPRESENTATIVE FINANCE

WITH NO DEPOSIT

PLUS, 3 YEARS FREE SERVICING

*

Infiniti Centre Newcastle Middle Engine Lane, Silverlink Business Park, Newcastle, Tyne and Wear NE28 9NZ Phone: 0191 295 8686 www.infinitinewcastle.com

Infiniti Q50 2.2 Cdi Executive Auto Saloon • Satellite Navigation • Rear View Camera • Alloy Wheels • Bluetooth© Audio Streaming • USB / iPod Connectivity • Dual Touch Screen (LCD VGA 8” and LCD VGA 7”) • Voice Recognition System • Start Stop System • Twin Exhaust Chrome Tailpipes • Push Button Ignition • Infiniti InTouch • Scratch Shield Paint • Cruise Control Ultrasonic Alarm System • Half Leather Seats • Air Conditioning

INSPIRED PERFORMANCE

Official fuel economy figures for the Infiniti range in mpg (l/100 km): urban 25.2 to 15.0 (11.2 to 18.9), extra urban 36.2 to 28.8 (7.8 to 9.8), combined 31.4 to 21.6 (9.0 to 13.1). CO2 emission: 307 to 238 g/km.

Visit your local dealer for full details. Infiniti Centre Newcastle is a subsidiary of Bristol Street Fourth Investments who is a credit broker authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority. Finance subject to status. Model shown for illustration purposes only. Further charges may be payable if vehicle is returned. Indemnities may be required. Subject to status. Available to over 18s in the UK only. Terms and conditions apply. Retail sales only. Subject to availability. Offers may be varied or withdrawn at any time. We can introduce you to a limited number of lenders to assist with your purchase, who may pay us for introducing you to them. 5 years 0% APR representative finance is based on Hire Purchase. On the road price for the Infiniti Q50 range £28, 650 - £47,240. Applies to models from stock only. *Terms and conditions apply.

LUXE LAPS

ROB ARMSTRONG Rob is owner of M-Trec recruitment and LA Taxis. He lives in Medburn, Ponteland and is a huge Magpies fan CHILDHOOD CAR CRUSH >> Ford Capri! The shape of the car always made me smile.

I just loved the driving position, I have owned over 20 of them over the years starting with my first ever car on finance – a 2.8 injection. I also owned a 280 Brooklands, the last one ever made.

I loved that car!

WHATS IN THE GARAGE NOW >> A Range Rover Autobiography which is great for the family and I live in quite a rural area so it is ideal for the winter months. I do love a gadget and this car has them all.

A Bentley GT V8S, which is now my third Bentley. The car is great fun to drive with its sports chassis and exhaust system and I believe the GT Model is one of the most beautiful cars ever made.

I also own a pick-up truck which is used for vehicle recoveries.

IF YOU COULD OWN ANY CAR >> To be re-united with my RS500 Cosworth, they only ever made 500 of the cars and I would keep it in my garage for Sunday drives.

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CAPTAIN SLOW OR JEREMY >> I am definitely Captain Slow with the kids in the car, though they do encourage me to be a bit Jeremy.

But I do enjoy driving fast when the conditions are right; it’s good to scare yourself occasionally.

WHO SHOULD PRESENT TOP GEAR >> I would love to see a real car enthusiast that isn’t a celebrity and who really knows their stuff.

TRACKS OF YOUR TYRES >> I listen to 80s and 90s disco and dance music; it keeps me young at heart.

DREAM ROAD TRIP >> Nothing too fancy, a good old fashioned country side road. I have been all around the world and I am still amazed at the beauty of the Lake District and Northumberland. These roads are a pleasure to drive on, as long as there are no cyclists!

WHAT’S ON YOUR WISH-LIST >> My wish list is done. Last year I bought an Aston Martin DBS. This car was magnificent, though not the most

practical. I sold it with a tear in my eye.

WHAT’S IN THE GLOVE BOX >> Business cards, kids DVDs, sweets and always a hair brush.

MEMORABLE CAR MOMENTS >> Most of my most memorable moments are from years ago when I used to struggle, where I was scrimping and saving money to buy my first cars. I have so many happy memories of driving around Newcastle and meeting friends with the same sorts of interests. I have to say, on reflection, looking for cars when I had very little money was more fun than going into a car showroom and picking one now – strange but true!

HOW CLEAN IS YOUR CAR >> My cars are always immaculate; I valet all of my cars. I hate a dirty car.

SCARY MOMENTS >> This part should be three pages long the number of times I have scared myself, Capris do not handle well. I have had a few bumps though nothing too serious.

NOV/DEC15

Exquisite luxury, where you’ve never seen it before.

Bentayga.

Introducing the extraordinary SUV. Visit Newcastle.BentleyMotors.com or call +44 (0)844 371 1454.

Bentayga fuel consumption – EU Drive Cycle in mpg (l/100 km)*: Urban 14.7 (19.2); Extra Urban 31.0 (9.1); Combined 22.1 (12.8). CO2 Emissions 292 g/km.

BENTLEY NEWCASTLE

*Fuel consumption figures subject to Type Approval. The name ‘Bentley’ and the ‘B’ in wings device are registered trademarks. © 2015 Bentley Motors Limited. Model shown: Bentayga.

In association with:

luxe:looks Bentley Bentayga Launch, Silverlink, Newcastle Below > Graham Robinson, Judith Robinson, Alan Brown

Break out the fizz. Time to get down to some people-spotting as we bring you our social snapshot of happenings across the North East. Eyes and teeth time!

Fenwick Food Hall Launch, Newcastle Below > Nigel Mills, Tom Hedley

Above > Ash Aggarwal, Shobha Aggarwal, Steve Tate, Judy Tate

Above > Stephen Patterson, Lauren Hedley, Fran Ratliff Below > Nigel McMinn, Elaine McMinn

Above > Glen Campbell, Phil Robinson, David Smith, Geoff Smith

Above > Lynne Branhwaite, Malcolm Stephenson

Above > Jane Hardy, Patrick McDowell

Below > Jack Coupe, Irene Coupe, Tom Myers, Linda Myers

Seaham Hall, Vortex Room Launch, Seaham

Above > Sharon Somerbill, Malcolm Jaggard, Andrea Hitchels, Angela Boustead Below > Lynn Wilson, Kate Hutchinson, Neil Hutchinson

Above > James Ramsbottham, Kari Owers

Aston Martin, Spectre Premiere, Durham Gala Theatre

Below > Fay Robinson, Victoria Toas

Below > Ben Davis, Alison Morgan, Harvey Morgan

Above > Sarah Zissler, Diane Walker

Above > Paul Thursby, Jack Redfern, Marilyn Weerasinghe Below > Praveen Kalia, Mala Kalia

Below > Julie Anne Parsons, Kathryn Malone

Above > Paul Bennett, Alison Gittins, Denise Hewett, Susan Lawson Above > Anthony Stringer, Kay Partington

RICHARD SINTON

Above > Lucy Bettering, Dick Bettering, Holly Murrell, David Murrell, Catherine Murrell

Above > Bill Ward, Jake Ward

Upper Level Eldon Garden Newcastle Upon Tyne

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NOV/DEC15

SOCIAL LIFE

Alan Shearer Foundation Golf Day, Close House Below > Steve Harper, Alan Shearer, Robert Lee, Iain Dowie

Locally-made Durham Gin with a splash of Fentimanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tonic whetted appetites for a seasonal tasting menu at The Balckbird Inn in Ponteland. Matching wines with menus, the challenge was compare and contrast wines of the world with one another for each course - so prosecco vs champagne paired with confit of chicken and and wild mushroom terrine. Seared scallops with roasted cobnut sald were a seafood started with riesling and gavi wines to compare then canon of lamb with roasted veg and carmenere vs rioja to taste alongside. For a trio of desserts was matched with moscato and muscat.

Above > George Robson, John Carver Below > Michael Lucas, Kevin Daunt, Jeff Lumsden, Andrew Nichol

The Blackbird, Ponteland, Autumn Tasting Dinner

Below > Suzanne Adamson, John Adamson

Above > Lee Bowyer

Above > Geoff Thompson, Andrea Thompson

Above > Alf Taylor, Steven Taylor, Sheila Taylor Below > Louise Playle, Susan Justice, Hannah Lee Gray Below > Phil Steele, Carole Steele

Intu Eldon Square Retail Awards, Crowne Plaza, Newcastle

Above > Helen Atkinson, Chris Mitchell, Lisa Mcleman Below > Charlotte Carr, Nichola Collinson, Rachael Laws, Alice MacFarlane, Tasha McNally, Aimee Coldwell and Jess Davidson

Above > Richard Pattinson, Keith Pattinson

Above > Claudia Cooper, Dawn Irons, Stuart Young, Sue Young Above > Daniel ErringtonBarnes, Mary Goss, Alex Hunter

Below > Magnus McGillivray, Steven Taylor, Rob Armstrong

Below > Marilyn Zac, Rami Zac Above > Nicky McKeen, Lyn Spencer

Pol Kefton Sub-Zero Wolf Living Kitchen Evening, Morpeth Below > Brian Swnton, Andrew Stylianou

Above > Janet Yeend, Jonathan Yeend, Matthew Yeend Below > Simon Moxon, Andy Jones Martin, Jackie Martin

Above > Ian Headley, Sheila Headley

Above > Chrstopher Stocks, Judith Wiseman, Mark Wiseman

RICHARD SINTON

Upper Level Eldon Garden Newcastle Upon Tyne

NOV/DEC15

101

SOCIAL LIFE

Crathorne Hall, Yarm, East Wing Re-opening Below > Katherine Field, Lord Crathorne, Julia Hands, Jacky Cooper, Martin Terry, Judy Campbell

Below > Andrea Gibson, Julie Connaughton

Above > Jeff Tab, Jane Tab, Peter Llewellyn

Above > Liz McNeill, Lord Crathorne, Ian Maxey

Benfield Golf Day, Close House, Heddon on the Wall Below > Jonathan Edwards

Above > Jez Rushworth, Diane Felstead, James Nutt

My Sisters’ Place Ball, Wynyard Hall Below > Catherine Scott, Jim Young, Rosie Young

Above > Alan Shearer, Lainya Shearer

Above > Robin Hillson, Sharon Bugeja, Jenny Clegg, Charlotte Smith, Rebecca Gallagher

Above > Colin Pybus, Jeanette Hawdon, Karman Yuen, John Cuthbertson Below > Andy Bruce, Alan Shearer, Graham Wylie, Geoff Thompson

Above > Verity Stangroom, Ejaye Moran, Michelle O’Rouke, Rebecca Samuels

Above > Rachel Wilson, Lynsey Eglington

Below > Joe Watson, Sophie Lynas

Above > Rae Gaukroger, Caroline Smith, Jason Smith, Neville Gaukroger Below > Lynsey Harper, Steve Harper

Above > Andrea Card, Paul Card

Above > Elaine McMinn, Nigel McMinn, Carly Booth, Andy Bruce

Tilly, Bailey, Irvine Private View, Bowes Museum Below > Phillipa Mort, Julia Carr

Below > Rachel Morris, Marian Kean, Chris Arundel

Below > Andrew White, Jackie White

Above > Jane Bradshaw, Brian Farrell Above > Ann Dicken, Above > Nicky Alison Smitheringale Haywood, Rebecca Metcalf

RICHARD SINTON

Upper Level Eldon Garden Newcastle Upon Tyne

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NOV/DEC15

North East Ladies’ Day, Hardwick Hall, Sedgefield

RICHARD SINTON

Below > Kathryn McClaren, Judith Wong, Jane Shaw.

Above > Marilyn Jackson, Briony Above > Lesley O’Neil, Gill Powton Sawdon, Ann-Marie Anderson Below > Annie Ridge, Vanessa Price, Sarah Bowen, Carolyn Tilly, Jane Thompson Smith

Below > Margaret Round, Dame Mary Archer DBE, Teresa Shaw

Above > Emma Simpkins, Mary Caffry, Lynne Addison, Adrienne Robinson

High Tide Foundation Ball, Wynyard Hall Grand Marquee Below > Sandra Blain, Cleo Monty, Diane Irving

Above > Jenny McNeal, Ian McNeal

Above > Mike Matthews, Alison Matthews, Linda Cuffe, Bob Cuffe

Below > Mark Easby, Nicola Easby

Above > Frank Ramsey, Kim Ramsey

Above > Carl Donkin, Kirsten Donkin

Above > Jeff Waters, Lyndsey Waters

Fine & Country Golf Day, Wynyard Golf Club Below > Mike Fenwick, Martin Jones, Rob Hoskins, Stewart Brown, Dave Richardson

Below > Rob Hoskins, Karen Hoskins, Laura HoskinS

Above > Judith Allen, Peter Allen, Simon Wright, Terry Hogg, George Robinson, Mark Smith, Adrienne Dobson

Below > Judith Allen, Jo Frampton, Jaynie Dolan, Adrienne Dobson

Eldon Garden Newcastle Upon Tyne

Above > Ken McCloughlin, Chris Mounter, Lee McCavangh, Shaun Goad

NOV/DEC15

Upper Level

Above > James Monroe, Derek Stott, David Yarrow, Vinay Bedi

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DO YOUR BIT…

Sweet charity Offering up some charity cheer this Christmas SHEARER SHINES >> Alan Shearer showcased his golfing ability at Close House where his fifth annual golf day raised an amazing £44,000 for The Alan Shearer Foundation.

The evening saw golfers take part in a charity auction which included the chance to win a 2015 Masters flag signed by this year’s winner Jordan Spieth.

Also auctioned at the event was one night’s stay at the exclusive Archerfield Mansion House in Scotland including dinner and a round of golf. Hospitality tickets for England v Ireland in the rugby world cup and club level tickets for the Arsenal v Sunderland game at the Emirates Stadium were also included in the auction lots which helped reach the fundraising total.

“The golf day has been a great success and the support for the Foundation is brilliant, some golfers have travelled from as far as London to be here today,” said Alan. “All the money raised from the golf event goes to the Alan Shearer Centre in Newcastle which allows it to provide free specialist

SEAFOOD SUCCESS >>

12 November Newcastle’s Discovery Museum is to be transformed into a wonderland for an Alice themed ball to help North East Headway, supporting people who suffer from brain injuries. The best-loved children’s story is the inspiration behind this year’s fundraising event, WonderLAN Ball. The spectacular evening will be raising funds for Headway’s ‘Look Ahead’ (LAN) weekend, an initiative that takes members for a weekend filled with activities and entertainment. A fun fundraising event for everyone to get involved in. www.discoverymuseum.org.uk

place on 3rd March 2016, will raise money for charities tackling poverty and homelessness in the North East.

This is the third year CEO Sleepout Newcastle will be taking place and it hopes to raise over £50,000 for charities Changing Lives and The Newcastle United Football Foundation, who all help people, young and old in the region.

Willing sleepout participants should book their place by emailing info@ceosleepoutuk. com to receive the registration pack. All participants must individually fundraise £1,000 or more either before the event or in the following weeks post-event.

Full details are available to view at www.ceosleepoutuk.com.

HOSPICE DATE >>

SLEEP WELL? >> CEOs, senior managers and business leaders from all industries in the region are being urged to give up the comfort of their bed for one night to camp out at the famous Newcastle United Stadium, St James’ Park, for charity. CEO Sleepout Newcastle, taking

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29 November Kick off the festivities for a great cause this November at Linden Hall’s Joy of Christmas Fair. Visitors can bag themselves some unique Christmas gift ideas, indulge in some delicious refreshments and browse the array of exciting stalls on offer. There’s something for everyone at this fun and festive event. www.hospicecare-nn.org.uk

CONCERT DATE >> 15 December Benfield Motor Group are set to put the Christmas spirit into gear at this year’s Teenage Cancer Trust concert. The region’s leading motor group gives the best gift of all as they provide support for the popular event. Bringing together a wealth of stars to help raise funds for the cancer charity, the festive event will take place at St Nicholas Cathedral. Performers include the Tyneside based teenage youth choir, The Swing Bridge Singers and a selection of choirs and festive readers. www.newcastlecityhall.org Charity chairman Andy Preston talks at Teesside’s Philanthropic Foundation’s dinner.

Business leaders and socialites gathered for a day of fine food and world class entertainment at the 12th annual North East Oyster Festival. To coincide with the Rugby World Cup the popular event was taken on tour from its usual home at Hardwick Hall Hotel, County Durham to the specially erected Fan Zone marquee at Newcastle’s Science Central. There visitors enjoyed performances by multi award-winning comedian Al Murray, Motown legends Martha Reeves and the Vandellas, the world’s leading bagpipe band, Red Hot Chilli Pipers and Celtic party acts Dublin Raiders and the JJ Galway Band. The event, organised by Ramside Estates, also included a champagne reception, oyster stalls and a three course fruit de mer dinner, prepared by the expert chefs at Ramside Event Catering.

HEADWAY >>

services and facilities for disabled children and adults.”

The footballing pundit just missed out on a win however, with the A-belco team taking home the golf day trophy.

The funds raised are used by the North East charity St Cuthberts Care, which runs the Alan Shearer Centre, to support people with profound disabilities and complex needs.

GOOD CAUSES >> MORE than 400 people helped Teesside’s biggest annual charity dinner raise £38,000 for local good causes.

Teesside Philanthropic Foundation’s Annual Dinner at Wynyard Hall Marquee was hailed “a massive success” by the charity’s founder and chairman Andy Preston.

Hosted by Middlesbrough FC PA announcer Mark Page, the fundraiser featured performances by Stockton’s X-Factor star Kerrianne Covell and local band Storm.

Middlesbrough’s three-times Olympian Chris Tomlinson talked about the Foundation’s new FAST Fund to help talented local sportspeople fulfil their potential.

Two auctions raised £19,000, with two winning bidders each getting a week-long stay in a luxury Mallorcan villa for £5,000 each, while a dining experience for 10 at Rudby Hall raised £1,200.

Andy said: “Our Annual Dinner has now become a highlight in the Teesside calendar for dozens of local people and businesses. We’re grateful for the generous support of all who supported the event in any way.

“We’re all conscious of the fact that the steelworks issues are impacting on local families and businesses. Events like this can play a small role in spreading a bit of fairness and goodwill, whilst helping to create a few opportunities for local people too.

“Certainly, we promise every penny will be distributed amongst those who need it most here on Teesside.”

Headline Sponsors for the event were Active Chartered Financial Planners, while Co-Sponsors were their fellow Stockton firm Endeavour Partnership.

Set up four years ago, the Philanthropic Foundation recently hit the £1 million fundraising milestone before receiving a further £700,000 boost from an anonymous benefactor.

The Foundation’s next fundraiser is a Ladies’ Lunch at the Middlesbrough Hotel (formerly the Thistle) on Thursday, 19 November. Tickets, £30 each by calling 07948 191046 or emailing mandy.s@teessidecharity.org.uk

NOV/DEC15

PARTING SHOT

Glow for it>> Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re hoping for a bit of this soon - Christmas-card perfect snowy days. Jolly tidings from Luxe. Image: www.kgphotography.co.uk

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NOV/DEC15

Protecting our clients’ wealth...

Robust portfolio construction to manage risk in all weathers.

Vertem Asset Management is an independent investment company with an individual and fresh approach to investment services.

• Genuinely Bespoke Portfolios • Investments • Stocks & Shares • Property • Hedge Funds & Alternative Assets • Bonds • Passive & Active Funds

tel: 0191 341 0289

email: info@vertem.co.uk

HHHHH “Voted car of the year & SUV of the year 2015”