Luxe September/October 2016

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ISSUE 42 SEP/OCT16

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ISSUE 42 SEP/OCT16

HAY L EY M C QU E E N O F F -S CREEN. Cas t l e re-vamp. F IS H ES ON DISHES. Cool b oys c o o k i n g. N EW SEAS ON FAS H ION. Cul t ure f i x . TR AV E L ESSENTIALS. Pa rty p e o p l e . H I G H - LIFE H UNTING . Harro gat e hi t . L IT TLE LU XE. Motor m a g i c . H I P H OT E L S . Bi g names. LUX E.

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WELCOME

contents 6>> Do This ISSUE 42 SEP/OCT16 So the routine of lazy mornings, warm, dozy evenings and sleep-deprived Olympic nights ends.

Some of us will have earned a childcare medal over the summer so that the familiarity of the school run and desktop signals a rest.

Others will have stepped up to a goldstandard suntan, a silver in barbecuing and a bronze in paperback-reading.

We might be popping off the pleasure podium and saying goodby to the balmy days, but in the spirit of social responsibility, Luxe is is here for some holiday hand-holding in the form of a rather gorgeous Travel Essentials magazine within this edition.

Just when you thought your cossie was in the cupboard for a good few months, here we are, whirring you into action, because as we all know, you’re only as good as your next holiday.

Be inspired!

Don’t forget, our new website is a great place to keep up to date with the Luxe world every day. www.luxe-magazine.co.uk

A new cultural season

16>> Charity Balls, bike-rides and Botham

24>> Fashion moment Beautiful autumn looks

44>> Browse Natalie’s big juggle

46>> Cover story Sky’s Hayley McQueen off-screen

52>> Living it Up Varsha and Alok’s stylish summer

56>> Hip Hotels Rob Saunders is designer and partner at Saunders&Pugh jewellers in Corbridge.

His luxe things include: admiring grand scenery cycling in Arizona.

He’s planning a return visit to The Fat Duck in Bray for some of Heston’s exquisite food.

And Rob is partial to a nice Paul Smith suit for high days and holidays.

Romance in Rome

57>> Hot Harrogate Chic getaway town

58>> So-wow sleepovers Amazing places to stay

60>> Social diary Smile and say cheers

64>> Motoring Car people and the latest models

And set yourself up for a great weekend with Luxe Loves the weekend every Thursday via email.

Sign up free at www.luxe-magazine.co.uk/theweekend

76>> Castle makeover

Kathryn Armstrong, editor kathryn@remembermedia.co.uk Twitter: TheLuxeMagazine

Goat curry and tremendous turbot

Mel’s fabulous interiors project

90>> Eat!

THE LUXE TEAM Christopher March publisher chris@remembermedia.co.uk EDITORIAL Kathryn Armstrong editorial director kathryn@remembermedia.co.uk Jessica Laing jessica@remembermedia.co.uk Elysia Agnew Jemma Ferguson-Gale SALES Lisa Anderson director lisa@remembermedia.co.uk Debi Coldwell director debi@remembermedia.co.uk PHOTOGRAPHY Kevin Gibson info@kgphotography.co.uk Nicky Rogerson nicky@kgphotography.co.uk Chris Auld chris@chrisauldphotography.co.uk

Interior designer Mel Brown was literally queen of her castle when she renovated a 14th Century keep in Scotland.

Her luxe things include: Travel: I love the fruit and veg market in Toulouse, design shows in Paris, and skiing in the Alps.

My black Mulberry briefcase and my collection of vintage design books.

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 Business Centre, Cygnet Way, Rainton Bridge South, DH4 5QY remembermedia.co.uk All contents copyright ©2016 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, August 2016.

Diamuid Gavin is working on a new contemporary garden at Gibside.

His luxe moments have included a party hosted by Harrods boss Mohammed al Fayed. But his luxe things include the more modest Magnum raspberry ice-cream, Guinness - and taking the plunge on Venice Beach.

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A LIS O N L EITH

LUXE LIFE

Alison Leith is Partner and head of the Wynyard-based commercial office of Tilly Bailey & Irvine LLP which she joined 11 years ago after training and working at commercial firms in Leeds and Newcastle.

Alison specialises in commercial litigation and was voted Lawyer of the Year at last year’s Northern Law Awards. Originally from Beverley, Alison has lived in the Tees Valley and North Yorkshire for almost 20 years.

She is married with a step daughter, four dogs, a cat and three chickens!

LUXE PEOPLE >> Looking back I realise what a strong influence my mum was, particularly when I was a teenager. As a working single mum to me and my sister she instilled an excellent work ethic in me and encouraged me to be independent, confident and determined. As for the rich and famous, a hero of mine was the late Victoria Wood, such a talented and funny lady whose performances and shows never failed to make me laugh.

LUXE PLACES >> For a weekend > I love nothing more than a relaxing break by the sea, preferably somewhere warm and quiet, with my husband. We have found a few lovely places in Spain and Portugal which are perfect for a weekend or short break, for example the Tivoli hotel in Vilamoura.

A long holiday > I don’t often take long holidays, the longest being ten days for my honeymoon when we went skiing in Tignes. I would happily do that every year.

I absolutely love being in the mountains and nothing beats the exhilaration of flying down a slope towards a cosy little bar at the bottom. A week’s skiing is not long enough and taking a few extra days takes the pressure off from trying to cram every single minute’s skiing out of every day. I would also recommend South Africa, especially Cape Town and the vineyards around that area.

A treat > I am lucky to have been able to have many lovely short breaks abroad over the last few years, so I see somewhere close to home which doesn’t really justify the cost of staying overnight as a treat. For example, the Crab and Lobster or Rockcliffe Hall, especially with its lovely golf course.

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LUXE RELAX >> Best food > I love Italian food, especially pasta but I am also very happy tucking into Indian, Chinese or Mexican. I was very picky growing up so maybe I am making up for lost time now.

Best wine > Prosecco or a Rioja.

Best restaurant > I really love Gaucho, the meat is always fantastic and the cheese bread and chimichurri dip to start with is sublime.

Perfect weekend > Live comedy or music on Friday night. Saturday morning would be a game of golf followed by a trip on the train to York or Durham with my husband for a meal and a few drinks. Then, on Sunday morning, we would have a long walk on the beach or through the countryside with our four dogs and then have friends and family round for a fantastic Sunday lunch.

Downtime means > A book, a glass of wine and some good music. When I was young I used to read all the time but it is harder to find the time to do so now. When I do therefore it feels like a real break from everything.

Best telly > I watch very little television generally but do enjoy things which make me laugh, such as Come Fly With Me or Phoenix Nights or cookery shows like Masterchef. I also recently finished watching Breaking Bad which had been recommended to me by a friend and I thought it was fantastic.

LUXE SHOP >> Best shopping city > I am not really keen on shopping, especially not trawling round lots of shops. If I have to then Leeds or Manchester would be the places I would visit as they have a wide selection of shops in a relatively small area and plenty of places to pause and refuel. However, I much prefer to shop online from the comfort of my own home.

Favourite shop > Barkers in Northallerton - a proper, traditional department store. Every town had one when I grew up and they were usually independent.

It is a shame that many of them have had to close over the years as I think there is something very special about them.

Luxe relax retreat > Wood Hall Hotel and Spa at Linton

near Wetherby is perfect for a relaxing retreat and holds great memories for me as we got married there in glorious sunshine five years ago. We have been back to enjoy the fantastic food, relaxing spa and beautiful Yorkshire scenery.

Best buy > I love to find a bargain but I think my best buy would be Jimmy, a three foot wooden giraffe that we bought near Cape Town a few years ago. I don’t think it was a real bargain in itself but carrying it back on three flights, via Johannesburg and Heathrow, without once being charged extra for the strange shaped hand luggage was pretty impressive.

LUXE PARTY >> A memorable night out > It is hard to pick one.

We often travel to see live comedy or music and stay over so have had some great nights out over the years including watching bands such as Wet Wet Wet, The Killers, Deacon Blue and Paul Heaton or comedians like Sean Lock, Ed Byrne and Alan Davies.

Perfect party > Friends and family, good food, drink, karaoke and a good old fashioned disco until the early hours.

Best dress > It would have to be my wedding dress.

I’m sure I am not the first person to say that when you try on ‘the one’ you know it. I would love to have the chance to wear it again and have discussed with friends organising a wedding themed charity ball just so that we could all get them out again!

Dinner date > Anywhere with my husband, John.

Especially if it is somewhere with a sea or mountain view. A couple of years ago we found a beautiful little restaurant next to a tiny beach near Palmanova in Mallorca for our anniversary. It was bliss YOUR LUXE THING IN LIFE >> My dogs. We have had three Labradors for a few years and recently took a one year old Jack Russell from a rescue. She terrorises the other three who take it all very calmly. These are the first dogs I have had. I spoil them all so much and couldn’t imagine life without dogs now.

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DO THIS

Stay in >> go out >> enjoy A new season signals a host of cultural delights to add to the diary.

Elysia Agnew sets the scene FROM 19 SEPTEMBER

9 SEPTEMBER – 29 OCTOBER The world’s favourite nanny arrives in Newcastle for a dazzling all-singing, all-dancing production. This stage production of Mary Poppins stars Zizi Strallen as Mary Poppins, Matt Lee as Bert and Neil Roberts as George Banks, to name a few. The stage adaptation of the Disney favourite has a sensational soundtrack with songs including Jolly Holiday, Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious and Feed the Birds, as well as new songs and lyrics by the Olivier award-winning British team of George Stiles and Anthony Drewe. www.theatreroyal.co.uk

10 SEPTEMBER Newcastle Does Vintage returns to the Civic Centre this autumn. Packed with vintage fashion and jewellery, to homewares and unique gifts, enjoy past eras, from the 20s to the 80s.

There will be a vintage tearoom where buyers can while away the afternoon, a vintage beauty bar where you can get glammed up for your day of shopping and there will be a mix of vintage acts to spice up your day. www.britaindoesvintage.co.uk

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SEPTEMBER

The world’s most popular half marathon returns to the North East this September.

Great North Run welcomes 57,000 runners from more than 130 countries across the globe. A great showcase for the region as the runners pass over the iconic Tyne Bridge and along the beautiful coast, finishing up in South Tyneside. Between Newcastle and South Shields, there are a number of spectating points where you can cheer on the participants. www.greatrun.org/great-north-run

The Tyne and Wear’s biggest ever public art event arrives in September.

St Oswald’s Children’s Hospice has teamed up with Wild in Art to stage the Great North Snowdogs, an interactive trail that will feature over 50 large scale snowdog sculptures, inspired by the much-loved film, The Snowman.

The 1.5m high Snowdog sculptures will be individually decorated by professional artists and celebrities and a trail map, app and website will lead visitors from popular tourist destinations to lesser known areas of the region, along the route covered by the Metro system and other public transport. www.greatnorthsnowdogs.co.uk

16-24 SEPTEMBER

Handel in Car >>

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SEPTEMBER Follow a little folk this fall at this day long folk festival taking over Stockton’s ARC. Megson, The Jar Family and Amelia Coburn will head up the festival, entertaining the people of Teesside. There will also be a string of talented local folk musicians who will perform in ARC’s intimate No.60 café and visitors can also look forward to acoustic sets from James Kruman, James Leonard Hewitson, Ian Smith and Philip Donegan and James Gray Robson & The Lovely Burn.

17-18 SEPTEMBER The award-winning Festival of Thrift, the UK’s only national celebration of sustainable living, is back for the fourth year running. Headed up by designer Wayne Hemmingway, it’s a large-scale, family-friendly event, featuring leading and emerging artists, demonstrations, stalls, talks and workshops offering savvy advice, tips and tricks as well as innovative and tasty food and drink. This year’s venue is Kirkleatham Museum and Grounds, near Redcar.

Over the Festival weekend, visitors can pitch in to build a den, forage for food, make jam, strut their stuff in the fashion show, fix their broken laptops and generally have a great deal of fun – a highlight is delicious food at the Bistro du Van in the stunning stable block. www.festivalofthrift.co.uk/about-the-festival

WE CAUGHT UP WITH WAYNE HEMMINGWAY TO FIND OURT MORE ABOUT HIS THRIFTY THINKING....READ MORE ONLINE AT WWW.LUXE-MAGAZINE.CO.UK

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<< Big days in Hexham >> The annual Hexham Abbey Festival always offers an exciting mix of ancient and modern when it comes to arts events. The setting is the spectacular medieval building itself and there will be concerts to please pretty well every taste.

A carnival atmosphere is always created by Red Priest a popular band of virtuoso musicians who’ll be dressing up big-style for their Gypsy Baroque Fantasy programme in a candlelit abbey. Music by baroque masters such as Vivaldi, Telemann and Corelli, presented with wit and joy will appeal - however much they know about classical music. (24 September).

The choir Renaissance will sing sacred music from sixteenth-century England and madrigals from Italy. The group, whose founder, Ben Rowarth, comes from Hexham, met while they were studying at Durham University in 2011 and are now making waves in the international choral music world (23 September).

Also with local connections is the band Horovod whose members hail from the North East but specialise in playing folk and dance music from the Balkans, Greece and Turkey. A lively evening with dance and stomping klezmer sounds (22 September).

Calmer sounds with a Chopin recital by renowned pianist Janina Fialkowska (21 September) and the free lunch-time recitals by Magda Loth-Hill accompanied by Nathaniel Mander, Leah Nicholson and Callum Alger. (19, 21, 23 September).

Then there’s Automatronic – a quartet whose aim is to create ‘a unique soundscape’ using Hexham Abbey’s wonderful Phelps pipe organ and their own state-of-the-art electronic equipment. The combination is definitely unusual and should prove fascinating for anyone who likes to be surprised by what they hear (21 September).

The festival’s opening event is called Livepaint and comes from a team of mural painters and graffiti artists who go by the name Urban Canvas. They’ll use spray paint and cutting-edge graffiti techniques on huge canvases to develop images in front of the audience. The whole event will be inspired by the beautiful interior of the Abbey to create a visual and musical twilight spectacle (16 September).

One of the highlights of the festival for many of its 64 years has been the choral concert presented by the Hexham Abbey Festival Chorus. These amateur singers work over the summer to prepare a concert with international-level professional soloists.

This year they’re singing the Petite Messe Solennelle by Rossini.

This promises to be an important event in the musical calendar of the North East.

(17 September).

Programme can be downloaded at www.hexhamabbeyfestival.org.uk

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DO THIS

WEALTH MANAGEMENT WITH JOHN DANCE

21-25 SEPTEMBER Celebrate the art of film in the historic border town of Berwick-upon-Tweed this September. The Berwick Film & Media Arts Festival, now in its twelfth year, showcases image installations and live performances, set in the backdrop of this stunning architectural town. www.berwickfilm-artsfest.com

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SEPTEMBER

INVESTORS SCRATCHING THEIR HEADS POST BREXIT At 5pm Thursday 23 June 2016, the FTSE closed over 2% higher at 6338 points, having already had a pretty reasonable week, driven by market confidence that the Brexit vote would be a comfortable ‘Remain’.

At 10am Friday 24 June 2016, intraday trading in the FTSE saw it over 8.5% lower at 5788 as the shock ‘Out’ vote catches out both politicians and markets alike.

The economic fallout, or even lack thereof, of leaving the EU can neither be predicted now, nor could it in advance, but the perception had been built that it wouldn’t be good economic news and investors reacted accordingly. It is no surprise then that merely seven weeks later, with the FTSE now standing nearer 6900 points that clients and investors are currently scratching their heads at the recent performance of the market, given what they describe to us as ‘all this bad news’.

Generally we have been pointing out three things that hopefully go at least some way to resolving their understandable quandaries: Firstly, it would be wrong to assume everything sits higher; there has been a large dislocation in the returns of different stocks and sectors within headline indices.

Stocks, such as those in the Banking, House-building and UK Consumer Spending sectors were heavily punished and most remain distinctly underwater. On the flip side though, international earners such as the Pharmaceutical, Oil and Mining and Household Goods (of which the majority of the UK’s largest companies sit) rocketed due to the translational currency benefits of the collapsing pound.

Secondly, equity markets are forward looking indicators, often pricing in recoveries from downturns, slowdowns and recessions before any of them have really even started.

Markets have essentially been telling us in recent weeks that whilst there may be uncertainty ahead they are confident things will ultimately be alright, thanks perhaps to the swift post Brexit policy action by the Bank of England. This brings us on to the third of the potential drivers of recent returns.

The Bank of England has already initiated two major policy changes, a reduction in already historically low base rates to 0.25% and a reintroduction of Quantitative Easing. With regards to the latter they are also buying corporate rather than just government bonds to force investors further up the risk curve and ultimately invest more money in the real economy. The ‘lower for longer’ environment for rates and bond yields has seemingly now become ‘even lower for even longer’ and the impact of sustained ultra low interest rates and bond yields has a profoundly positive effect on the stock market. Equity investors are willing to pay more for stocks, effectively accepting a lower earnings yield as long as the premium to yields from cash and bonds is acceptable.

Where markets go from here of course may still be a complete mystery to many, but hopefully the reasons behind the returns of late are now less so.

Justin Hayward, of the legendary British act The Moody Blues, comes to the Sage Gateshead this September. Justin was the driving force behind The Moody Blues for almost fifty years, and will perform hits including Your Wildest Dreams, Tuesday Afternoon and songs from his recent solo album Spirits in the Western Sky. www.sagegateshead.com

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Northern Stage and Pilot Theatre present The Season Ticket – an up-to-date version of the story that inspired the British film Purely Belter.

A comical and emotional journey of love and friendship, hardship and the priceless currency of hope. Gerry and Sewell are two Geordies who live for Newcastle United. Their dream is to watch the Magpies play for a whole season – thus requiring a season ticket. It’s a fun story of friendship, family, finance and football. www.northernstage.co.uk

SEPTEMBER

Shappi Khorsandi is touring with a brand new live comedy show, and North East audiences can look forward to an appearance at the Georgian Theatre Royal.

With her razor-sharp wit and her endless charm, she won the nation over with her appearances on Live At The Apollo, Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow, Friday Night with Jonathan Ross, Have I Got News for You and QI. And now, with brand-new and effortlessly funny gags, she’s ready to take the stage in a solo tour. www.georgiantheatreroyal.co.uk

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23 SEPTEMBER – 8 OCTOBER

26 SEPTEMBER – 1 OCTOBER Dave Stewart’s ‘Ghost, The Musical’ hits Sunderland Empire. The timeless story of love, despair and hope – Ghost, The Musical, Unchained and Reimagined is a new production by Bill Kenwright, following the tragic story of Sam and girlfriend Molly. www.atgtickets.com

SEPTEMBER

Oh what a night for the people of the North East… Big Girls Don’t Cry comes to the Tees Valley Arena this September for what promises to be a spectacular all-singing, all-dancing evening.

During the 60s and 70s, number one hits including Sherry, December 1963, Walk Like a Man and Big Girls Don’t Cry saw the Four Seasons and lead singer Frankie Valli skyrocket to the top of the charts. This smash-hit musical revives the harmonies of New Jersey’s finest, following Frankie’s journey to stardom. Fast-forward almost 60 years, the music of the Four Seasons is taking the UK by storm in the Big Girls Don’t Cry tour. Middlesbrough. www.teesvalleyarena.co.uk

<< Durham book festival >> 7-16 OCTOBER

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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Durham Book Festival returns this October with a host of household names taking over the city. There will be book-based discussions and interactive workshops to get involved with. From politics to poetry, and fashion to fiction.

Some of this year’s highlights: The announcement of the Gordon Burn Prize 2016: Friday 7 October, 8pm-10.30pm, Durham Town Hall Laura Bates: Girl up: Saturday 8 October James Rebanks: The Shepherd’s Life: A Tale of the Lake District: Sunday 9 October An Evening with Anthony Horowitz: Wednesday 12 October, First World War with Pat Barker and Michael Morpurgo, Durham Cathedral Nave Songwriter in Residence: Kathryn Williams and Friends: Saturday 15 October www.durhambookfestival.com

SEP/OCT16

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DO THIS

30 SEPTEMBER & 1 OCTOBER The timeless tale of the journey to becoming a human boy. This autumn, Jasmin Vardimon Company brings their brand new adaptation of Pinocchio to Dance City before embarking on a national tour. Combining physical theatre, dance, innovative technologies and quirky characterisation, this beloved childhood story explores the idea of what it means to be human. www.dancecity.co.uk

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OCTOBER

Packed with hands-on workshops and exciting live performances, the Live Theatre is holding its first Fun Palaces event.

There will be puppetry classes and illustration demonstrations to get your teeth into, among many other fun workshops and performances. In the garden, you’ll find storytelling sessions, acoustic buskers and many more exciting performers. www.live.org.uk

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OCTOBER

Teesside’s comedy following are in for a treat this autumn with TV and radio favourite Marcus Brigstocke confirming a date at Stockton’s ARC. Why The Long Face is an observational stand-up show with topics including politics, terrorism, the media, tax dodging and the art of being single.

The comedy favourite first took to the stage in 1996 when he won the BBC New Comedian Award at the Edinburgh Festival, and has since established himself as one of the nation’s finest comedians. www.arconline.co.uk Photo credit Andy Hollingworth

7 OCTOBER It’s time to find your flares and dig out your disco shoes as The Counterfeit Seventies comes to the PLAYHOUSE for the first time. With the success of The Counterfeit Sixties, fast-forward a decade and we’ve got the new seventies show, celebrating all things glam rock. Featuring the music of T.Rex, Slade, The Bay City Rollers and many more. www.playhousewhitleybay.co.uk

FROM 15 OCTOBER

7 - 8 OCTOBER People of the North East are in for a tasty treat this October. Blackfriars restaurant is hosting a beer and bread weekender, where guests will be whisked away to a local brewery for an exclusive tour and tasting session, finishing with a beer-themed supper at Blackfriars. The following day, guests will take part in a bread-making session where refreshments will be available throughout the day. www.blackfriarsrestaurant.co.uk

8 OCTOBER Following his sixth month run as Joseph in ‘Joseph and the Technicolour Dreamcoat’, North East talent Joe McElderry heads home for a vocals show at the PLAYHOUSE. www.playhousewhitleybay.co.uk

Out of Chaos: Art, Identity and Migration is a brand new display opening at the Laing Art Gallery this October. Addressing the issues of identity and belonging, this exhibition will showcase the works of Frank Auerbach, Marc Chagall and David Bomberg. Exploring themes of immigration, creativity and citizenship, telling the unique stories of people who have experienced social and political upheaval first hand. www.laingartgallery.org.uk

FROM 14 OCTOBER Lithuanian artist Deimantas Narkevicius presents ‘Doubled Youth’, a new 3D film looking at the removal of several socialist sculptures from a prominent site in central Vilnius. The process of erasure is documented using stereoscopic lenses in immersive 3D culminates. There will also be paper works available at the Baltic Mill, relating to the many hours of footage and a further installation. www.balticmill.com

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OCTOBER

Richmond’s Georgian Theatre Royal has something quite extraordinary in store this October. Whether you’re already among his admirers, or you’re new to the Spanish guitarists music, Eduardo Niebla fuses flamenco gypsy jazz with an array of classical and Indian colours.

He’s at the top of his game right now and his audience is in for a treat. www.georgiantheatreroyal.co.uk

UNTIL 9 OCTOBER Catch The Good, The Bad and The Ugly, an exhibition of new works by Andrew Miller at National Glass Centre. Miller explores work originating from glass found in charity shops – pieces that may have previously been the height of good taste and may hold an emotional value to the owner.

This exhibition looks at how later in the life of an object, the prices are reduced and second hand trinkets tend to become less valuable. www.nationalglasscentre.com

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OCTOBER

ACTOR Alan Cumming brings his awardwinning show Alan Cumming Sings Sappy Songs to SAGE. Expect intimate secrets and raucous anecdotes, all delivered with disarming emotional honesty as well as his own, very personal reinterpretations of the songs he loves to perform – from Noël Coward, to Rufus Wainwright, Lady Gaga and Katy Perry. www.sagegateshead.com

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OCTOBER

Disney On Ice presents Frozen at Newcastle’s Metro Radio Arena in October - the hottest ticket in town!

Frozen, is without doubt, the fastest selling Disney On Ice show in the history of the Metro Radio Arena. This is the first time that audiences in the UK will see the entire Frozen story showcased by Disney On Ice - and two extra shows have been added.

The ice-rink is surely the perfect venue for this much-loved performance which sees Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse take the audience through the magical story based in Arendelle, with special appearances by beloved Disney princesses and favorite characters from Disney/Pixar’s Toy Story and Finding Nemo and Disney’s The Lion King, who come together to prove that true love is the greatest power of all.

Frozen transports audiences to a wintry and spellbinding world. www.metroradioarena.co.uk Ticket Hotline: 0844 493 6666

7 & 8 OCTOBER

Calling gin lovers of the North East – it’s time to try out more than 40 gins at the debut Gateshead Gin Festival this October.

The team behind the ever-popular Gateshead Beer & Music Festival is set to take over Gateshead Rugby Club for two days of generous gin tasting. The all-new festival will see the Jam Jar Gin Company showcasing the best of the New Western style gins, while the Captain Snowball & Captain Swinborne Gin Company will serve up the best of London Dry Gins and the FiveUB Gin Company will offer the best of Sloe and Spiced gins. It’s a gin lover’s paradise here in the North East. www.gatesheadbeerfestival.co.uk/ gateshead-gin-festival-2016

FROM 22 OCTOBER Art lovers of the North East can look forward to an exclusive exhibition at Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art starting this October.

Liberation of Colour is the largest presentation of Winifred Nicholson’s work since the 80s and draws on new research, never seen before archival material and her late ‘prismatic’ pictures. This exciting new showcase focuses on her time in Switzerland in the 20s, before continuing to France in the 30s. Famous pieces include The Gate to the Isles (1980) and Outward and Inward (1936). www.visitmima.com

20-22 OCTOBER

The Birmingham Royal Ballet’s 2016 Shakespeare season arrives in Sunderland, with one of the most beloved William Shakespeare narratives, The Tempest. This breath-taking production choreographed by David Bintley boasts stunning designs and a brand-new score. This adaptation will take you on an enchanting journey through Prospero’s magical isle. With spectacular scenery, exquisite dance numbers and stunning costumes. www.ATGtickets.com

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OCTOBER

The Word, National Centre for the Written Word opens its doors to the public in South Tyneside this October.

It opens with The Ridley Scott exhibition, displaying six of Scott’s most well-known movies: Alien, Blade Runner, Gladiator, Robin Hood, Thelma and Louise and the Martian. A 7ft alien is just one of the iconic props that have been commissioned

by South Tyneside Council for this fascinating exhibition.

The Word will be the centrepiece for the upcoming £100m regeneration project.

It will be a place for unique entertainment and education, incorporating literary and digital media space, exhibition space, a computer gaming area, a FabLab, IT suite, café and a rooftop restaurant and terrace. www.southtyneside.gov.uk

SEP/OCT16

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Offices across the North East including Wynyard and Barnard Castle

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SEP/OCT16

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DO THIS

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22-30 OCTOBER

Marking the band’s tenth world tour, Nickelback will perform in 30 cities across Europe, finishing at the Metro Radio Arena on 25 October. The multi-platinum selling rock band have thrilled audiences since their formation in 1995, and are set to embark on a huge worldwide tour. With chart toppers including How You Remind Me and If Today Was Your Last Day, it’s time to release your inner rock star the the Metro Radio Arena this autumn. www.metroradioarena.co.uk

Half term is all about having fun, so make sure you head to Wallington this autumn to get involved in the indoor activities and outdoor adventures. There will be a full schedule of fun activities for little ones to get involved in every day, from Halloween crafts and pumpkin carving, to leaf collecting and wild art. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

25 OCTOBER Joel Dommett arrives in Newcastle with his new solo show, Joel Dommett: LIVE. Known for his high-octane comedy, Joe made a name for himself in 2007 after receiving great critical acclaim for his Edinburgh Fringe shows. Catch funnyman Joel Dommett at The Stand Comedy Club. www.thestand.co.uk

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OCTOBER

27-30 OCTOBER You won’t need to catch a flight to experience Oktoberfest this year. Introducing Newcastle Oktoberfest… complete with live music, full Oktoberfest decorations and waiting staff dressed in Dirndi and Lederhosen. Filled with long tables made for dancing on, the tent will serve up giant German beers throughout the fun-filled weekend. www.newcastle-oktoberfest.co.uk

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OCTOBER

It’s time for another grand marquee event at Rockliffe Hall. Following the success of the Tony Hadley event in May, the luxury resort has confirmed Boney M as the headline act.

One of the greatest disco groups of all time became an overnight sensation in Germany in the 70s, and quickly became worldwide favourites. This October, the group will be showcasing hits such as Daddy Cool, River of Babylon and Brown Girl in the Ring.

A dazzling disco evening with champagne reception and a delicious three-course meal.

The event will raise funds for its charity partner, The Great North Air Ambulance. www.rockliffehall.com

The nation’s favourite thrill-seeker arrives in Newcastle this October for a spectacular live show - Endeavour. Bear Grylls will host an action-packed show at the Metro Radio Arena, where his audience will be mind-blown. The two-hour show will deliver cutting-edge design and performance, celebrating the courageous TV favourite. Alongside a full cast of expert aerial artists and stunt crew. www.metroradioarena.co.uk

26 OCTOBER Pink Martini bring a sassy selection of cool sounds, jazz tracks and hi-octane musical entertainment to SAGE, Gateshead with a repertoire embracing samba, chanson, Neopolitan ballads, Japanese Pop and much more besides. www.sagegateshead.com

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OCTOBER

This October, head north to see the delights of Handmade Edinburgh: The Contemporary Crafts & Design Fair. Organised by Handmade in Britain, this exciting new craft event is a welcome addition to Scotland’s creative scene, bringing together the best arts and crafts makers from Scotland, the North East of England, and beyond. Expect to see more than 100 designers showcasing everything from textile works and jewellery, to ceramics, glass works, wood, furniture and fashion. It’s the ultimate shopping treat over three days, where you’ll get the chance to meet talented craftspeople and will be able to take home quirky gifts for your loved ones. handmadeinbritain.co.uk

<< luxe Autumn highlights >> 10 SEPTEMBER

7 OCTOBER

The Yorkshire Whisky Festival returns for its 14th year.

Set in the elegant surroundings of The Ebor Stand at York Racecourse, whisky lovers will get the chance to taste the best whiskies from around the world and close to home. The festival will offer a wide selection of workshops and plenty of tasting – plus The Whiskey Exchange will take care of any purchases. www.thewhiskylounge.com/event/yorkshire-festival-2016

Fine dining in fine surroundings this October. Durham Cathedral is the setting for An Evening with Anton Edelmann and Gerard Basset. Guests will enjoy an indulgent dining experience in the company of the legendary Anton Edelmann, Executive Chef and The Savoy Hotel’s Maitre Chef des Cuisines for over 20 years, and Gerard Basset OBE, Master of Wine and Master Sommelier. An authentic Georgian three-course dinner will be served up in the spectacular mediaeval Undercroft Restaurant. Each course will offer a range of culinary delights inspired by John Thacker’s The Art of Cookery (1758). A truly delicious evening in the company of the greatest. www.durhamcathedral.co.uk

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SEPTEMBER Professor Brian Cox, the world’s foremost communicator of all things scientific, arrives at Newcastle City Hall this September. This live show will delve into ‘high science’ and will test the limits of our knowledge, making highly complex ideas accessible to all. The man is good at making highly complex matters highly entertaining and easy to contemplate. www.theatreroyal.co.uk

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OCTOBER

Stratford comes to Durham as The Royal Shakespeare Company’s performance of King Lear is streamed to The Gala Theatre. Antony Sher plays one of the most epic and powerful Shakespeare characters of all.

The story of a powerful man who deteriorates and is left to confront the mistakes of a life that has betrayed him.

A Shakespeare favourite. www.galadurham.co.uk

15 OCTOBER The Last Night of the Proms returns to Newcastle City Hall after the success of the 2015 concert. Daft as a Brush, a cancer patient charity, will host this year’s event. The evening will host the 45 piece Bede Wind Orchestra and the stunning vocal chords of the principal soloist. This memorable evening will be backed with a supporting cast of choirs from all age groups. A roof-raising musical spectacular that will inspire, entertain and raise funds for the much-loved North East charity. www.theatreroyal.co.uk

24 OCTOBER Celebrating the 35th anniversary of their seminal debut album, Penthouse and Pavement, Heaven 17 are set to take the stage of the Sage, Gateshead to play the album in full. Joined by British Electric Foundation, Glen Matlock (The Sex Pistols), Mari Wilson, Peter Hooton (The Farm), and Glenn Gregory, this is a must-see performance in the North East for one night only. www.sagegateshead.com

3 NOVEMBER Billy Budd is a young sailor who radiates beauty and goodness. This November, Newcastle’s Theatre Royal discovers his dramatic tale through Benjamin Britten’s opera.

A powerful and truly unforgettable stage show

by Opera North. With its evocative music, stellar cast and stunning set, Opera North Billy Budd is a must on the theatre diary this year. www.theatreroyal.co.uk

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4462 Luxe magazine 216x157mm.qxp_4462 Luxe magazine 216x157mm 16/08/2016 12:24 Page 1

A brighter future.

Open Mornings Junior School and Nursery: Saturday 24th September Boys’ and Girls’ Schools: Saturday 1st October Parents are welcome to arrange a visit to any of the Schools.

Please contact the Registrar on 0191 275 0608. www.dameallans.co.uk

DAME ALLAN’S SCHOOLS building the future

Fleming Court Living North Ad_Aug2016 19/08/2016 15:54 Page 1

Live in Luxury at...

Fleming Court, Jesmond

Opening November 2016

Helen McArdle Care has been providing outstanding care throughout the North East of England for over 25 years. Fleming Court is a new, luxurious care home opening this November in the heart of Jesmond.

At our new flagship community you can enjoy all of the facilities and care you would expect of a Helen McArdle Care Home and so much more. You can invite friends and family to join you for a meal in our restaurant, compete in a game of bowls on our bowling green or simply sit and watch the world go by from your luxury suite.

When living at Fleming Court you can relax in the knowledge that all of your needs are being cared for to the highest of standards, so that all you need to worry about is enjoying yourself.

Fleming Court will offer all of the facilities you might expect and some you might not, such as: - Restaurant - Cinema Café - Bar - Evening Drinks Reception - Concierge Service - Hair and Beauty Salon - Driver Service

Marketing Suite Opening September 2016

Fleming Court, Burdon Terrace, Jesmond

For further information or to book an appointment please call: 0191 461 8870

T: 0191 461 8870

Helen McArdle Care

www.helenmcardlecare.co.uk

@HMCare

SEP/OCT16

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SWEET CHARITY

Sweet charity Doing good things in the North East, our charity round-up

BIG WINS >> The Lord’s Taverners held its annual race day at Gosforth Park Racecourse.

Privately hosted with a dedicated Tote and tipster, the 150+ guests helped the charity raise in excess of £6,000 which

will all go towards giving disabled and disadvantaged kids a sporting chance in the North East region.

Jamie Graham, chairman of the Northumberland and Durham Lord’s Taverners, said: “A big thank you to all those who attended and donated towards the raffle and table sweepstake so generously.

Regardless of ability or background we believe that all young people should be able to participate in sporting activities.

The money raised will be wisely used to make a difference.”

For more information about the charity or to become involved, contact regional chair, Jamie Graham on 0191 273 3311.

IN A SPIN >> Cricket legends, Sir Ian ‘Beefy’ Botham and Shane Warne kicked off a charity golf challenge at Rockliffe Hall which saw them play one hole on 18 golf courses in one day, travelling to each by helicopter.

The pair teed off at 6am as part of two four ball teams. The teams then played a hole at courses in 17 other cricketing counties across the UK, including Lindrick Golf Club in Yorkshire, Thorndon Park in Essex, Wentworth Golf Club in Surrey and The Belfry in Warwickshire, before the final hole at The Marriott in Worsley, Lancashire at 8.30pm.

The challenge raised money for the Beefy Charity Foundation. The Foundation helps to fund specific projects relating to chronic illnesses and other challenges faced by young people.

butterwick@learningcurvegroup.co.uk or call Kayleigh Abbott at Learning Curve Group on 01388 777 129.

BIRTHDAY BASH >> Children North East celebrates its 125th Birthday this year, marking the occasion at Newcastle’s Discovery Museum, above, with a birthday party for young guests.

“Children and families have been at the heart of what we do for 125 years,” said Children North East’s chief executive Jeremy Cripps, “so there is no way we could celebrate our Birthday without them.”

Children North East was founded in 1891 to support children living in the slums of Newcastle. They now work with families and schools across the region to help put a stop to childhood poverty and improve life opportunities for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. www.children-ne.org.uk

FIERY FUNDRAISING >> Newcastle’s Vermont Hotel will host age the Fire and Ice Ball in aid of Teen Cancer Trust on 5 November.

In what promises to be an explosive evening, the spectacular venue will offer a champagne reception, four course meal, guest speaker and live

BOLLY-BRILLIANT ! >> North East radio star Justin Lockwood will host the Butterwick Bollywood Ball on 23 September at Hardwick Hall.

The Bollywood-themed bash will feature live music, exotic dancers and Indian food, with all proceeds going to the charity which has three hospices across Teesside and County Durham, Wearside and North Yorkshire, providing free support to around 2,000 sufferers including young people and babies.

Tickets, £65 each, or £600 for 10, which includes a reception drink and three course meal. To book email

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entertainment.

Teenage Cancer Trust is the only rt charity dedicated to offering expe treatment and support from the moment a young person hears the word ‘cancer’.

They offer a range of services for young cancer sufferers, including music events, specialist nurses and like cancer units that are setup to feel . home from away a home , Tickets for the ball cost £150 each 10. of table a for 0 £120 Contact generalmanager@ vermonthotel.co.uk or call 0191 233 1010 for reservations.

RIDE WELL >> Award-winning hotel Matfen Hall has chosen Tynedale Hospice at Home as its nominated charity for the next 12 months.

Staff at the hotel will embark on a series of fundraising events on behalf of the charity.

Tynedale Hospice at Home provides free nursing care and transport for terminally ill patients along with bereavement support for both adults and children.

Members of the hotel’s Aqua Vitae spa did their bit; 16 cyclists completed a 150-mile ride over two days to raise £1,000 for the charity (pictured above).

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AN EVENING WITH

BONEYM Rockliffe Hall, Sunday 23rd October Be part of Rockliffe Hall’s next black tie grand marquee event with special guest stars Boney M! Fronted by original member Liz Mitchell, Boney M will perform many of their hits including Daddy Cool, Rivers Of Babylon, Rasputin and many more, all within the beautiful setting of the Rockliffe Hall estate.

Tickets are available from £135 per person including champagne reception, three-course banquet, charity donation to the Great North Air Ambulance and all entertainment.

To book your place call 01325 729999 or email vip.event@rockliffehall.com

www.rockliffehall.com Hurworth-on-Tees Darlington County Durham DL2 2DU +44 (0)1325 729999 enquiries@rockliffehall.com

SEP/OCT16

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ADVERTORIAL

Wedding wonder Wynyard Hall has been the venue for some spectacular weddings this summer.

Here, bride Lizzie Sheraton talks us through her own fabulous day

THE COUPLE Lizzie Sheraton, 28, Senior Visual Merchandiser, from South Shields, now lives in London. Alan Lawrenson, 28, Head of CRM, from South Shields, now lives in London.

THE PROPOSAL He popped the question while we were

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on holiday in Milan. This was a huge surprise as we were there to watch the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Monza!

THE CEREMONY We were married in the Chapel at Wynyard Hall and had our wedding reception there too - it was very emotional.

It’s rare to have such a historic and beautiful Chapel attached to an amazing venue, Alan was thinking more practically about our

guests having to travel from a church to our venue, so Wynyard Hall Ticked both of our boxes.

DID YOU ARRIVE IN STYLE? Yes, in a vintage Rolls Royce from GW Holmes, it really complimented the venue.

TELL US ABOUT THE DRESS… My Mam and Sister came to visit me in London, we went to the National Wedding Show at Olympia. We looked around at all the exhibitors and watched the main fashion show, it was great. I would recommend going to as many wedding shows as you can. My wedding dress was from Pronovias on Bond Street, London. It had delicate lace sleeves and an off-the shoulder neckline.

WEDDING CAKE When it came to the cake I really shopped around, had lots of tastings (which I wasn’t complaining about).

I knew I wanted a 3 tier wedding cake but to accompany this I wanted a dessert table and pick and mix table.

The cake itself was a beautiful vintage inspired 3 tier wedding cake with a teapot on top.

AND THE WEDDING MENU? Our canapes included blue cheese and onion quichettes and avocado and goat’s cheese foam. We enjoyed a 3-course wedding breakfast with a traditional roast sirloin of beef with Yorkshire pudding & red wine jus for our main course.

SEP/OCT16

ADVERTORIAL

WEDDINGS

Step back in time and experience a world of stunning design and flawless service unmatched anywhere else in the North East. An invitation to Wynyard Hall is unsurpassed in terms of elegance and prestige, with its breath-taking State Rooms, unique function spaces and luxury accommodation.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY… We chose Christina and Nigel, a husband and wife team known as 2tone Photography. Wynyard Hall has lots of original period features which helped create the perfect backdrop for our wedding photos. We have some lovely pictures of us inside the Chapel, outside on the Terrace and of our guests in the Ballroom.

ENTERTAINMENT We had a string quartet, a DJ for the evening celebrations and also a vintage ice cream van (Scoops n Smiles).

WHERE DID YOU HONEYMOON??

Alan planned the most amazing three-week honeymoon. I had no idea where we were going. Flying from Gatwick to New York for four nights, then onto LA. Next we visited Universal Studious, touring Beverly Hills and catching some rays at Santa Monica Pier. Being a lover of muscle cars, we rented a Ford Mustang convertible and headed to Sin City, back to our first holiday destination over seven years ago. After a fun packed and extremely adventurous two weeks we headed for Oahu, Hawaii. Here the plan was to sit back and relax, which is exactly what we did!

Unique Chapel • Wedding Ceremonies Evening Receptions • Weddings Of All Sizes • Impeccable Service • Exquisite Food & Drink • Stunning Grounds Bridal Hair & Make-up

~ WEDDING PACKAGES ~ The Experience Package From £165 Per Person The ‘crème de la crème’ of wedding packages, includes an evening buffet, a house DJ, menu tasting, Spa time and a private breakfast room the following morning...

The Wynyard Package From £140 Per Person All the exquisite essentials including a reception drink, a delicious 3-course wedding breakfast, a toast drink, an evening buffet and more...

Mid-week & Winter Package From £105 Per Person The same impeccable quality and service, delivered on off-peak dates.

Includes a reception drink, a 3-course wedding breakfast, a toast drink and evening buffet...

Wynyard Hall has lots of original period features which helped create the perfect backdrop for our wedding photos

SEP/OCT16

For full package details, please visit www.wynyardhall.co.uk/weddings or email weddings@wynyardhall.co.uk. Minimum guest numbers and terms apply.

Wynyard Hall, Tees Valley, TS22 5NF • 01740 644811 (opt. 5) www.wynyardhall.co.uk/weddings

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LUXE LIFE

ALEXANDER O’NEAL When it comes to get up and dance soul music, the name Alexander O’Neal is as grand as it gets. Sell-out nights at Wembley Arena, hits like Criticize and the platinum album `Hear Say’ mark him out as a soul legend.

He will be performing at this year’s Diamonds and Divas Ball on Saturday 22 October at Hilton Newcastle-Gateshead.

In advance of his visit to Tyneside, the father of nine from Natchez, Mississippi, shares his luxe things in life...

LUXE PEOPLE >> Anyone who has helped me in my life and career. My mother, my uncle who told me to get off my butt and make something of myself and of course all my fans - one of the things that’s so important to me about my UK fans is their loyalty. My British fans have been there for me through ups, downs - regardless of WHAT the situation has been.

LUXE PLACES >> For a weekend > I love going home for the weekend. Spending time in Mississippi to visit my Mom and sharing real family time with my brothers and sisters.

A long holiday > When I have the time I love to take a long holiday anywhere in the Caribbean, where the sun shines all day long, the water is real blue and the sand white. You can chill and have some real me time.

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LUXE RELAX >> Best food > Caribbean, I love the spices and flavours.

Best wine > I don’t drink wine I like a Guinness or a nice single malt.

Best restaurant > Any good Caribbean ones!

Perfect weekend > At home relaxing watching the news or American football.

Downtime means > Catching up on sleep and trying to relax and rest my voice. Taking a walk along the Mississippi - and when in London I love a stroll around Hyde Park.

Best telly > I watch a lot of news channels and mainly sports, but I also like The Chase when I am in the UK. Keeps me on my toes and I love to see if I can get the answers to the questions right before the chaser!

Best theatre > I have played at so many theatres around the world, very hard to choose one.

Best book > My upcoming autobiography, it’s going to be sensational!

Best sounds > Fans singing along and cheering at the live shows, for me there’s no greater feeling.

I sure also love the comfortable sounds of R&B/swing and man I sure love to get funky.

But I also like a bit of rock! Stuff like Billy Squier and Def Leppard!

LUXE SHOP >> Best shopping city > Love the UK and especially shopping in London. There are just so many options to choose. Looking forward to seeing Newcastle as I heard there’s some cool shopping to be done.

Favourite shop > I like to go to many different shops, difficult to choose just one – but I like to take a stroll around Harrods when in London. It’s just great to people watch even without the shopping.

But better still I love to visit the markets around Camden and Spitalfields where there are some great ingredients for Caribbean food. Love the noise and atmosphere.

Best dress > Any suit I wore in the 80s and 90s, man those shoulder pads were the bomb! I loved them and they made me feel so goooooooood.

Luxe retail treat > When chilling I love to just wear jeans and a sweat top but I do like a nice tailored suit for on stage. A crisp white shirt something like Boss or Abercrombie.

Best buy > Abercrombie Shirts I bought in

Savile Row just love they are so English.

I got a couple of them – they’re all in white but so comfortable.

LUXE PARTY >> A memorable night out > Ha man, I had too many of those to even think of picking one, and I probably can’t remember the best ones! I’m so lucky to have been able to have so many good parties. But for me really some great evenings with my family back in Mississippi. Mom’s cooking and we all having a singalong together.

Perfect party > Every show I do is a party, so as long as my fans keep wanting me to, then I will keep partying! I’ve got so many happy memories of being on stage and partying with my fans.

Best outfit > I love to lounge around in my tracksuit bottoms and t shirt when not working. For work I love a nice tailored suit.

Dinner date > my wife Cynthia would be my dinner date. I love to have some special time when there are just the two of us. When in London love to pop into The Jerk Hut. YOUR LUXE THINGS IN LIFE >> My big TV! Just love to chill and relax in my trackies in front of the telly! www.facebook.com/ diamondsanddivasnewcastle

SEP/OCT16

DISCOVER SLALEY HALL

Tranquil spa

Four-star award-winning service

Two championship golf courses

Fine dining with locally sourced cuisine

Slaley Hall is set in the picturesque Northumberland countryside and has everything a country retreat needs. Recently we have been making some exciting changes to the hotel including upgrading bedrooms and bringing in a new management team. We are happy to confirm we are now part of the award-winning QHotels group and on the back of this have two stunning leisure break offers for you:

Two-night Pamper Your Partner from £120 pp

One-night spa break just £80 pp

Save 20% on a two-night break for two guests including breakfast and a delicious evening meal up to the value of £28 per guest on the first night of your stay, plus:

Relax, rejuvenate and refresh on a one-night break including breakfast and a delicious evening meal up to the value of £28 per guest, plus:

•

A luxurious ESPA candle worth £24

•

1 x 30 minute spa treatment

•

A box of Belgian chocolates & rose petals

•

Use of health club facilities

•

A complimentary bedroom upgrade

•

Unwind in our tranquil relaxation suite

•

20% off pre-booked spa treatments

•

20% off pre-booked spa treatments

Book online QHotels.co.uk/LUXEPAMPER or call 01434 676 790 & quote LUXEPAMPER

Book online QHotels.co.uk/LUXETHANKQ or call 01434 676 790 & quote LUXETHANKQ

Terms and conditions apply and offers subject to availability at Slaley Hall. Offers based on two people sharing a standard or double bedroom. For full terms and conditions on our two-night Pamper Your Partner break visit QHotels.co.uk/LUXEPAMPER. For full terms and conditions for our one-night spa break visit QHotels.co.uk/LUXETHANKQ

LUXE LOVES

LUXE LOVES Cosy moments Yipee for autumn and the chance to go shopping for cosy wool throws, cushions and nice knits.

Cushions from £30 Amara www.amara.co.uk

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OPEN MORNING: Saturday 24th September 9am-12noon

TOUCHY TEXTURES

A U T U M N A L FA S H I O N I S B R AV E R T H A N EVER THIS YEAR; ENTER EYE-POPPING C O LO U R S A N D P R I N T S , M I X E D W I T H L E AT H E R , FA U X F U R A N D C A S H M E R E

BOLD a n d

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b r i g h t

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LEFT Max & Moi manteau fur coat £440, Flannels, intu Metrocentre. Vince crepe double neck blouse, £275, Flannels, intu Metrocentre. Vince ankle zip leather pants, £740, Flannels, intu Metrocentre

TOUCHY TEXTURES

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Vivienne Westwood Anglomania capri flower tunic top, £219.95, Jules B Oakwood anthracite asteroid suede leggings, £495, Jules B Paul Smith felt fedora hat, £85, Jules B en shalla fringe leather tote bag, £419.99, Jules B

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LEFT Pleats Please by Issey Miyake trousers £365, Fenwick Newcastle Sportmax Code scarf, £99, Fenwick Newcastle Sportmax Code emblema high neck cape wool coat, £475, Fenwick Newcastle

RIGHT MSGM coat, £399, Fenwick Newcastle, DKNY net top, £169, Fenwick, Newcastle Victoria Beckham jeans, £235, Fenwick Newcastle

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Shop with us: in centre | at home | on the go

Š 2016 intu properties plc

M&S

Get swept up in Autumn/Winter fashion 21 & 22 October - Town Square Find this seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top styles at intu Metrocentre. For details visit intu.co.uk/fashion

TOUCHY TEXTURES

By Malene Birger cazios long coat, £415, Flannels, intu Metrocentre

By Malene Birger block print trousers, £235, Flannels, intu Metrocentre

By Malene Birger Zarano long leather top £509, Flannels, intu Metrocentre Ted Baker black avia bow wrist detail leather gloves, £75, Flannels, intu Metrocentre BELOW

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LEFT Alexandra Wang mini rookie cheetah bag, £649.95, Jules B Ralston wally draped curio shirt, £169.95, Jules B

RIGHT Velvet by Graham & Spencer Berdine faux leather leggings, £165, Jules B Ralston wally draped curio shirt, £169.95, Jules B Kendall + Kylie modern suede side buckle shoes, £175, Jules B

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TOUCHY TEXTURES

Sportmax Code apollo chunky woven Alpaca jumper, £155, Fenwick Newcastle MSGM wool checked pencil skirt, £299, Fenwick Newcastle

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W H I T TA K E R S 63 High Street, Yarm, Cleveland, TS15 9BH - Tel: 01642 788 088 18 Sandersons Arcade, Morpeth, Northumberland, NE61 1NS - Tel: 01670 511 333

F O R A L L T H E U N I Q U E FAC E T S O F YO U

pandora.net

18 Sanderson Arcade, Morpeth, Northumberland, NE61 1NS 01670 511333

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TOUCHY TEXTURES

RIGHT Gray and Willow Paula ponte leggings, £49, House of Fraser Hallhuber long sleeve shirt, £29, House of Fraser Hallhuber honeycomb jacquard coat, £179, House of Fraser

LEFT Bazar Deluxe embroidered cuff coat, £845, Jules B rag & bone Lynnwood mid rise capri jeans £149.95, Jules B Kendall + Kylie Felicia suede mid boots, £145, Jules B

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Photography: Kevin Gibson, www.kgphotography.co.uk

Models: Rebecca Gormley and Sarah Elkin, www.tyneteesmodels.co.uk

Hair: Cheryl Rippon and Tom Maddison, Reef Salon at Wynyard Hall, www.reefsalons.co.uk

Makeup: Kate Pymm Make-Up, www.katepymmmakeup.co.uk

Stockists: Fenwick Newcastle, www.fenwick.co.uk intu Metrocentre, www.intumetrocentre.co.uk Jules B Yarm, www.julesb.co.uk

Location: Wylam Brewery, Palace of Arts, Exhibition Park, Claremont Rd, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4PZ www.wylambrewery.co.uk The Palace of Arts in Newcastleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Exhibition Park is the new home of Wylam Brewery. Having remained almost derelict for nearly a decade, the building has now sprung back to life as a fully operational working Brewery. Alongside the Brewery, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find a Brewery Tap, which is open to the public Thursdays to Saturdays. The Grand Hall plays host to regular live music and is available for weddings, pop-up events and more.

Eldon Square, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 7SX & branches throughout the UK www.charlesclinkard.co.uk

Click & Collect Mobile

SEP/OCT16

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RUFFLES, LACE AND FRINGES

TREND WATCH This AW16 stay ahead of the fashion pack by elevating your look with textured fabrics and luxury accessories Detail >> Dress Victoria Victoria Beckham, Bag Marc Jacobs

This season you’ll find that ruffled hem detailing, delicate lace and even fringing are fashion’s go-to trends. Here are some of my favourite ways to work the textured trend this autumn.

VICTORIA VICTORIA BECKHAM >> Cool, classic and contemporary, the AW16 collection by Victoria Victoria Beckham is the one to invest in this season. Take a look at the label’s gorgeous ready-to-wear fit and flare mini dresses, these versatile pieces are sure to become firm wardrobe favourites.

I love the detail on their Ruffle Trim Mini Dress, pictured in navy. The dramatic silhouette will ensure you stand out from the crowd this season and it’s the perfect way to work the textured trend into your look. We’ve styled this dress with a banana yellow clutch bag by Marc Jacobs for maximum impact!

SELF-PORTRAIT >> The stunning AW16 collection by Self-Portrait

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is the A-list’s occasionwear label of choice.

With luxury lace detailing, sheer panels and high necklines prepare to fall in love with the popular brand’s beautiful range of modern and feminine dresses.

The gorgeous Guipure Lace and Crepe Midi-Dress, pictured, is an easy-to-wear elegant option for evening events and special occasions. The lace falls gently over your shoulders and the crepe skirt is finished with a flattering grosgrain waistband. Texture is key in this dress, allow the lace to stand out and opt for minimal accessories - we’ve selected a sleek black Mulberry clutch bag.

BURBERRY >> Capes, ponchos and wraps are going to be big again for AW16. These easy to throw on pieces are a great way to add a fashion forward edge to your autumnal look, ensuring that you can fight the plunging British temperatures in style.

This season Burberry has brought out the most beautiful off white fringed poncho, pictured. Keep your outfit monochrome

Drama >> Poncho Burberry, Bag Mulberry

and opt for black accessories to keep this look classic and on trend.

Decadence >> Dress SelfPortrait

NEEDLE & THREAD >> Famous for their love of embellishment and texture, British label Needle & Thread’s AW16 collection is perfect for adding a touch of glamour to your eveningwear look.

The brand specialises in creating beautifully adorned pieces that are perfect for celebrations and special occasions. Their exquisite attention to detail can be seen in the intricate threads and sequins that make their textured designs so unique.

even fringing are fashion’s go-to trends) and clean, contemporary chic.

Our beautiful new edit captures the brand’s delicate aesthetic with statement ‘Chloé’ pieces including their signature pussy bow blouse and indigo denim. This season the label’s Freyed Indigo Jeans are a great way of getting a bit of texture into your casual wardrobe, the ultra-thick denim creates a great silhouette and they are finished with gorgeous copper studs and buttons.

Discover our new season collection in the Fenwick French Salon now.

SEE BY CHLOÉ >> New in for AW16, See by Chloé strikes the perfect balance between romantic femininity (ruffled hem detailing, delicate lace and

Visit the Fenwick French Salon on the First Floor to explore our AW16 collections in full.

Catherine Newton is Head of Womenswear at Fenwick Newcastle.

Ruffled hem detailing, delicate lace and even fringing are fashion’s go-to trends

SEP/OCT16

LUXE LIFE

CONNIE FOWLER Connie Fowler spends a great deal of time in sumptuous bathrooms – she has worked in bathroom interiors as importer and distributor in a career which has been long and varied – including a spell in Saudi Arabia. For the last eight years she has been showroom manager for the Greatlook Design Studio on the Team Valley.

LUXE PEOPLE >> Anyone who is interesting and inspirational, a good conversationalist and amusing.

LUXE PLACES >> A weekend > Love any weekend away anywhere with people I like. The last weekend away was with my son and his family in a lodge in the middle of nowhere - peace quiet nothing much to do but relax – and we spent a nice amount in the hot tub – super!

A long holiday > For a long holiday I go to Australia, I have visited many places around the world; everywhere has its own merit and I always think a holiday is what you make it, most places I like and enjoy; and the company has to be good.

LUXE RELAX >> A facial - I usually fall asleep but feel great afterwards.

A treat > Something new always goes down a treat. Also I would travel miles to go to a good coffee shop I do like my coffee-ing hobby.

Best wine > A good full bodied red wine. My good friend Darren buys me one of my favourites, Chateauneuf-du-Pape, failing that a G&T goes down very well indeed.

Favourite restaurant > Any restaurant. I like all cuisine and have eaten in many restaurants and eaten some great food but it’s all about the company you are with. My best restaurant is a local one called Gabriels at Seaburn it’s so relaxing definitley not pretentious and I have had so many good evenings there and have some great memories.

Downtime > I go walking usually along the coast with my good friend Dorothy.

Best telly > Good period drama or a short series 1/3 suits me fine.

LUXE SHOP >> Best shopping city > I’m local so Newcastle is the best.

Favourite shop > I like Fenwick it has some good concessions with a diverse mix. I also like Rutherfords in Morpeth, a family-run department store with some varied and different collections.

Best buy > I have just bought a television for my kitchen never had one before and I love it.

LUXE PARTY >> Perfect party > Family, friends, mixed age group, music, good food and maybe a glass of something.

Bestdress > My most memorable was a black shift dress - I felt a million dollars in it. Lots of dresses since but nothing made me feel as good.

Best dinner date > With good entertaining company.

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SEP/OCT16

DURHAM SCHOOL Independent day & boarding school . Girls and boys . Age 3-18

OPEN MORNING

Saturday 15th October 9:30 a.m – 12:30 p.m Sixth Form Information Evening: Wednesday 5th October 6 p.m – 7:30 p.m

Durham School is one of the country’s leading independent schools for boys and girls aged 3-18.

We offer a first class education in a caring and inspiring environment.

To book your place contact Admissions on 0191 375 1497 or visit www.durhamschool.co.uk/opendays

PAINT JOB

A clean sweep Move over ombre, there’s a new kid in town! Well actually that’s not altogether true.

We’re talking ‘balayage’ a French word meaning paint or sweep.

It’s been around for some time now but has only really started to catch on in a big way because of the popularity of the ombre technique.

Balayage is in theory a hi-lighting technique but allows for a much more natural sun-kissed look.

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The balayage technique is largely applied to the surface layers in a freehand way to create a ‘less is more’ result - making it very natural and desirable to many women.

It’s a look popularised by celebrities like Kylie Jenner and top model Gigi Hadid.

Our model shown here had a few natural sun lightened pieces around the face. Using the balayage technique we added to what was already there using some nude shades for a stunning multi-tonal result.

The technique can also be incredibly low maintenance because you don’t get any obvious regrowth from it and therefore can

wait longer between colour appointments.

Results can be achieved on virtually any hair colour so most shades can benefit from the gorgeous results it gives; natural, glossy and expensive.

So if you’re a bit colour-shy but fancy a little enhancement or if you’re feeling more daring and want a more striking result then balayage might just be the colour technique for you.

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

SEP/OCT16

SET IN 100 ACRES OF STUNNING NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTRYSIDE AND PLACED ON HADRIAN’S WALL, WALWICK HALL BLENDS THE COMFORT AND ELEGANCE OF AN ENGLISH COUNTRY RETREAT WITH A DISTINCTIVELY MODERN SPIRIT TO BRING GUESTS A UNIQUE, LUXURY EXPERIENCE THAT’S A WORLD AWAY FROM THE NORM. REGISTER FOR OPENING OFFERS AT WWW.WALWICKHALL.COM

WAKE-UP CALL

MOUTH MATTERS WITH DR ONKAR DHANOYA

Dr Onkar Dhanoya is clinical lead at the award-winning Osborne Dental Group and is principal dentist at dental health and wellbeing practice Ponteland Dental (soon to become Honour Health), providing 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).

BRIGHTEN YOUR SMILE WITH TEETH WHITENING >> As the children are now settling back into school routines after the summer holidays, could you benefit from a session of ‘me time’ to recharge your batteries and feel like the best version of you again?

If so, then this could be the ideal time for you to consider teeth whitening - an increasingly popular, highly effective anti ageing treatment, which can make a lasting difference to your smile.

However, it’s important to remember that anyone who carries out teeth whitening is legally required to be a dental professional registered with the General Dental Council. If they are not a dentist, or a dental hygienist, dental therapist or dental technician working under the supervision of a dentist, then it is 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 offer a choice of in-surgery and at-home teeth whitening treatments, providing the perfect opportunity to spruce up your smile this autumn.

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.

We use Zoom! For our in-surgery treatments – a bleaching process that lightens the discolouration of enamel and dentin.

The session begins with a preparation period followed by 45 minutes of bleaching - during which time you can relax and read or listen to music before leaving us with teeth up to five shades whiter.

Alternatively, you can choose to whiten your teeth in your own time, in the comfort of your own home. 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.

To book a free consultation, please call us on 01661 821 412 or email info@pontelanddental.com.

Ponteland Dental, 31 Bell Villas, Ponteland, NE20 9BD. Find Ponteland Dental on Facebook. Visit www.pontelanddental.com As I explained in my last column, we’re soon to rebrand as ‘Honour Health’. Stay tuned for an update in the next issue.

<< BRUSH OFF Aveda brings the concept of facial dry brushing to skincare based on traditional ayurvedic techniques. It works by stimulating and exfoliating at the same time, smoothing skin and sweeping away dull skin cells. The Tulasara range includes a dry brush which you use first then move on to concentrate oils to address different skincare woes such as the antiredness Calm Concentrate with pomegranate extract.

The range is from £27 for the brush with oils from £38.

On counter in Fenwick, Newcastle.

FRUITY TREATS >> Get your hands quite literally on the most luxurious thing to have come from a rhubarb plant. Noble Isle is a super-luxe brand making gorgeous hand washes, candles and body treats using thoroughly British products – including rhubarb from the famous Yorkshire Triangle. The plant’s benefits off the plate include its abundance of vitamin C and calcium, as well as being known for its invigorating and cleansing properties.

The Rhubarb Rhubarb! hand wash and lotion are £20 each. www.nobleisle.com

beauty:update

New season and time for a skincare re-think? << FIRM OFFER Clarins’ latest launch is an extra-firming mask to pep up tired and sad skin. Organic green banana and lemon thyme are among the ingredients. On counter now, £46.

PEEL APPEAL >> A zippy facemask is a good way to get an instant skin overhaul.

Origins offer up some of the best and most effective. Their latest is GinZing Peel-Off Mask to refine and refresh – great after the rigours of summer sun. The satisfying peel-off formula instantly lifts away dull, tired skin to smooth and refine your complexion. On counter, £24.

<< DESK HERO A touch of a perky hand lotion can offer up a cheeky pamper to take the keyboard strain away.

Add in a de-stress element and what could be nicer? Neom launch new handbag balms for a handbag-friendly wellbeing treat encouraging you to practise a few seconds of mindfulness to help de-stress, lift mood, energise or even sleep.

Hand balms are £15 available from www.neomorganics.com

LIFT ME UP >> Ponteland Dental, 31 Bell Villas, Ponteland, NE20 9BD. Find Ponteland Dental on Facebook Visit www.pontelanddental.com

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Chanel claims to get to grips with wrinkles with their new instant firming product called Le Lift (£67). It’s a product that tenses the skin, tightening wrinkles, so it’s perfect for a pre-party or special occasion dose of youth! It’s partnered with a more intensive daily-use anti-ageing cream which over time smooths skin thanks to an ingredient called 3.5 DA for skin repair. £91 from Chanel counters.

SEP/OCT16

AWARD WINNING HAIRDRESSING EXCLUSIVE OFFER CUT & STYLE

ONLY £25!

RRP £45

EXCLUSIVE INTRODUCTORY OFFER WITH ONE OF OUR SUPERSTAR STYLISTS AT A SALON NEAR YOU! CUT & STYLE ONLY £25!

Rebecca at Darlington 01325 468 994

Kate at Gosforth 0191 217 0217

Jonathan at Jesmond 0191 281 6714

Sam at Ponteland 01661 821 004

Michael at Wynyard 01740 644 690

www.hookerandyoung.co.uk Facebook/hooker&young Twitter @hookerandyoung *Offer is subject to availability and only available with the above mentioned stylists. ‘Luxe Magazine’ offer must be mentioned when booking appointment.

Offer available until end of September 2016. Offer is for new customers only or for customers who have not visited one of our salons for 6 months or more.

WAKE-UP CALL

FITNESS!

SCENTS NEW >> Excited to say hello not only to a lush new counter within Fenwick, Newcastle, but also the zesty Basil & Neroli fragrance range from Jo Malone.

If you’re a fan of the classic Lime Basil range, you’ll like a diversion into this range with its fresh citrus notes and then a kick of floral neroli. The collection includes; 100ml and 30ml Cologne, Body Crème, Body & Hand Wash, and, yay, a candle. www.jomalone.co.uk

WITH LEILA BRAMWELL

LUXE FRAGRANCE >>

Pilates plays a key part in the training of many Olympians - and look how well they’ve done!

Joseph Pilates who was born in 1883 pioneered Pilates. He was originally a boxer and performer who wanted to design a system to stretch, strengthen and balance the body.

He ended up doing just that and more.

Practised regularly, Pilates has been proven to help prevent illness and injury. This is due to the exercises and controlled breathing, which encourage good circulation and stimulation of white blood cell development. He believed that mental and physical health was inter-related.

Joseph Pilates continued through his life to develop equipment such as the Reformer and Cadillac, Barrel and Chairs as well as small equipment. His work and system was called ‘Contrology’.

Unfortunately many classes proclaiming to be Pilates are just a series of random exercises put together.

This unfortunately leads to people thinking that Pilates is for older people or that it is not very hard. Pilates done correctly can be extremely hard, and an amazing challenging workout.

Pilates has an order and sequence which done correctly fixes the body. Pilates and Reformer need to be taught in levels, as there is so much to take on board to do it correctly.

Starting from the Fundamentals then Beginner, Intermediate leading up to Advanced.

I teach Pilates, Reformer and the full system to such a vast array of clients, from athletes to the retired.

Unfortunately many people come to me first due to injury or back pain however once they feel and see the benefits they keep it up.

More recently attitudes are changing, and people are starting to realize that Pilates should be used as part of a training programme and to help prevent injury.

Many Olympian medalists use Pilates and Reformer as part of their training and what with the USA using Pilates and Reformer for their star American football players, Pilates will just keep growing.

In health and happiness Leila Bramwell Pilates teacher & back specialist www.shapingfutures.co.uk www.thebackclinicdurham.co.uk

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Arguably the ultimate in fine fragrance, is the collection from J.Lesquendieu - limited editions from the rarest scents available.

They sit on your dressing table in exclusive, hand blown glass bottles crafted by a master French glassmaker.

J.Lesquendieu La Maison de Haute Parfumerie, founded in 1903 has gone back to its roots to create a new line of fragrance and relaunched them under their original names, Bonne Fortune (woody, spicy, citrusy), Feu de Bengale (vanilla, floral), Glorilis (spicy, floral), Lilice (powdery, floral), and Lesquendieu le Parfum (spicy, oriental), these lavish creations retail at Euro 520 for 75ml. www.lesquendieu.com

Beauty boot camp

Power up your beauty regime with a treatment that is all about results not rest. Kathryn Armstrong plumps up

IonActive Power sounds like it might have something to do with your laundry rather than becoming the saviour of your skin.

But coming from the Dermalogica brand, you know that the scientific spec will go all out to offer up results.

At The Skin Company in Yarm High Street therapist Lisa Chapman comes armed with sci-fi implements that suggest that this is the real deal. You’re on the couch for for purpose not pamper.

Having said that, any excuse to lie flat for an hour or so counts as pampering in my book, so lie back and think of those ions doing their thing.

IonActive is the newest Dermalogica therapy and uses thermal energy (heat) to deliver savvy do-good products deep into the skin so your parched cells can drink them up and get all plumped and glowy again.

The treatment addresses your skincare needs – and these are assessed with face-mapping – it means that Lisa takes a long, hard, close-up and knowing look at your skin to determine the best products to use to allay skin issues.

In my case dehydration – but you if you had, say, acne or redness, she would use cooling rather than heat therapies. Fine lines, adult acne and uneven pigmentation are some of the skin issues IonActive is good at dealing with.

The treatment includes the application of a ‘ionactive geloid’ which is then delivered deep into the skin with a tool that looks like a scary blade but is in fact working the gel a bit like a palette knife would spread the cream on a cake to get it in the right place!

Skin is exfoliated and a gel mask is brushed onto the skin as part of the treatment, which feels lovely.

Another part of the treatment involves the application of ’endothermic gel’ on to the skin which heats up and is then massaged into the skin with warm stones to penetrate deeper – this feels amazing.

At the end of the treatment Lisa performs an intricate finger massage on the face which stimulates the cheeks, jawbone and forehead – giving your whole face a wake-up call.

It’s a speedy treatment – about 45 minutes but packs in a number of beneficial treatments and products – hence the ‘boot camp’ analogy.

It’s one with immediate visible results – you feel and look glowing and immediately ‘perked up’. Skin is tighter and brighter and the effects improve over a few days.

You can experience the new IonActive treatment for £55 (normally £65) at The Skin Company during September. Call 01642 786998 www.at-theskincompany.com

SEP/OCT16

COSMETIC DENTISTRY

DENTAL IMPLANTS

INVISIBLE BRACES

FACIAL XXXXXXXX REJUVENATION

WHAT’S

HOLDING BACK YOUR

SMILE?

Nothing will be when you join the new exclusive luxury clinic in Wynyard business park.

Arrange an appointment with our treatment coordinator to discuss how we can help you achieve your dream smile.

Burgess & Hyder Dental Group, a well-established group of 12 Dental Practices across the North East, now offer Dentistry at Wynyard Business Park. Wynyard Business Park offers the ideal location with great links from the A19 and A1.

What makes us different?

2000 square foot of combined dental clinic and dental laboratory in one location Wynyard - now that’s different.

Relax in our vibrant, state of the art clinic, in amazing surroundings. Allow us to give you the choice of preventive, cosmetic and family dentistry. Our team want to give you plenty of choice to allow you to have the smile you have always wanted. Many of our patients have enjoyed seeing the difference cosmetic dentistry can make to their lives.

Access is so easy our patients visit us from the whole of the North East region.

COME ALONG AND EXPERIENCE A WORLD CLASS SERVICE IN DENTISTRY. Join our practice and enjoy the Burgess & Hyder Wynyard experience, because we know you will be delighted and you deserve it.

Unit 1, Chapel Lane South, Wynyard Business Park, Billingham, TS22 5TB • 01740 644044 • 8am–8pm burgesshyderwynyard@gmail.com • www.burgesshyderwynyard.co.uk SEP/OCT16

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TIME OUT

LIVE WELL WITH JILL RUSSELL

There’s no doubt at all that modern life is full of stresses.

They might be the worries of coping with your job, anxiety about family and friends, concerns about money or even those everyday annoyances such as standing in a queue or being stuck in traffic.

Of course all stress isn’t bad – a bit of it can actually help motivate you and achieve your goals, but when it gets to the point where you’re starting to feel you can’t cope it’s time to take action.

There are lots of tools that you can apply to your life to stop you getting to breaking point. The truth is when stress becomes overwhelming it really can have a detrimental effect on both your physical and emotional wellbeing.

One of the best ways to start dealing with these situations is to avoid the very products that many people automatically turn to.

Keeping away from alcohol, tobacco and caffeine are a great way to help defuse a stressful situation.

Exercising is also useful in reducing the emotional anxiety you may be feeling. It could be a brisk walk, a swim or joining a gym where you can choose what feels right for you.

These days spas are very switched on in helping clients deal with stress. It’s not just the fact that the whole atmosphere is designed to help you chill out, it’s that there are many different kinds of treatment that can help you cope long after you’ve left.

Recently at the Spa at Ramside we’ve started sessions in mindfulness, a widely recognised technique which helps you live in the now and not dwell too much on the past or the future.

Having ‘me’ time has also been flagged up by the NHS as a great way to deal with stress – and what better way to do that than visit a spa?

A bit of indulgence never hurt anyone and we’ve taken our time to create packages and treatments which can help you get a good night’s sleep, relax and recharge or wind down.

Certain treatments are also great for specific situations. A therapeutic massage is a fantastic way to relieve tension and improve wellbeing, leaving you feeling calm, happy and ready to face the world.

We’ve recently launched our ‘Holistic Health Plan’ here at Ramside Spa which is totally personalised to each individual spa member.

It’s a great way to reassess your lifestyle patterns and can help ease stress, relieve pain, improve sleep, aid recovery and generally make you feel more energised and revitalised.

Whatever way you choose to deal with stress remember – help is always at hand!

For more information on spa experiences or membership at The Spa at Ramside telephone 0191 375 3088 or email enquires@ ramsidespa.co.uk

Take a

b ro w

Natalie Paleschi has her eye on the prize when it comes to her expanding brow beauty business.

No mean feat in itself – but at home she’s also juggling four children – including teeny triplets. Lucy Richardson met her The ‘mummy-juggle’ is something known to many a working parent. But Natalie Paleschi is the ultimate in ‘have-it-all’ parenting, and then some.

At just 28 not only is she powering her way to a fourth beauty business built on her signature brow treatment, she’s also doing it with four children to look after, including toddler triplets.

In terms of business she’s keen to offer a niche selection of results-driven treatments from brows to Botox and is determined to stay one step ahead of the fierce competition.

Natalie has been renowned for her signature look since she started in the beauty industry ten years ago and now the ‘Paleschi brow’ is a brand in its own right.

She comes from a family of self-starters and her business-minded approach is all about making a success of her business for her young family.

Conceiving the triplets – now 18 months old – was a one-in-several million surprise and meant a serious lifestyle shift for Natalie, who also has a nine-year-old, Alfie.

“Once they were born everything got bigger – the car, the food shop – mountains of nappies”, she laughs.

She has a nanny for the children during the week when she is at work and a hugely supportive family.

Her sister Holly, a trained nurse, also works with her as a Botox specialist, so the set-up is very much a family affair.

From the start, Natalie had definite drive and determination.

“I worked from home where I had a bed for clients in my living room and a little pot of wax and a dog jumping about everywhere but I never thought it would go wrong, I just knew it would work,” she explains.

She found she was pregnant – with triplets, Vivienne and identical sons Eli and Ezra and when they were just six weeks old she opened her first salon, Paleschi – Specialist Beauty and Aesthetics on bustling Baker Street in Middlesbrough.

A year later she opened on Yarm High Street followed by Guisborough in February. In October she will open a

The latest trend is microblading, also first known as eyebrow embroidery, a semi-permanent makeup procedure that allows beauticians to dramatically correct or fully reconstruct lost eyebrow Jill is Spa Director at Ramside Hall Spa Ramside Hall Hotel, County Durham DH1 1TD. Tel: 0191 386 5282 www.ramsidehallhotel.co.uk

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SEP/OCT16

fourth salon in Newcastle city centre. Natalie takes in her stride the expansion of her business and the additional pressure of looking after four premises and four little people.

Her signature treatment is the Paleschi brow. She realised early on in her career that what made her happy was seeing the look of delight on her clients’ faces when they saw how defining and tinting their eyebrows gave them an instant facelift.

“When I first started working in beauty salons I didn’t enjoy doing massages and facials.

Women, like me, have no time and want instant results so I decided very early on that we would be the very best at a select few treatments so we are specialists in HD brows, nails, lashes, Botox and fillers and we’ve built up an enviable reputation.”

An early adopter of social media, Natalie encourages her team of seven to show off their work across digital platforms where an image is everything. “Sharing a few before and after pictures is how I launched my business. I’m very focused so I’ve always stayed one step ahead of the competition to ensure that the Paleschi girls are always feeling challenged while offering clients the very best trends.”

The latest of these is microblading, also first known as eyebrow embroidery, a semipermanent makeup procedure that allows beauticians to dramatically correct or fully reconstruct lost eyebrow. Natalie is happy to be an advert for the Botox and lip fillers offered by her sister, nurse Holly Paleschi, which she said she absolutely loves.

“I know full well how hard it can be to manage work and children and how vital it is for women to look and feel their best.

“I’m proud to promote the services we offer so women know they can come to us and leave with results that are instantaneous, which leaves them to get back to juggling life… while looking amazing.” www.paleschi.com TWITTER: @NataliePaleschi INSTAGRAM: @paleschi

>> Natalie with her triplets, Eli, Vivienne and Ezra, son Alfie and boyfriend James Pollock

SEP/OCT16

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own SETTLING SCORES

League of her

Sky Sports broadcaster Hayley McQueen is settling in to a new football season. She talks to Elysia Agnew about family, football Twitter and trolls

I still do all of my clothes shopping in the North East. I buy loads of my clothes in Yarm. I get all of my fruit and veg from Roots on the A19 before the long drive back down to London.

I bring back Yorkshire gin, shortbread, tea… everything 46

It seems like the most glamorous of jobs. TV studios and time spent shoulder-to-shoulder with the greatest names from the world’s biggest game.

But come 6pm after a busy afternoon on air, it’s a case of break out the Yorkshire Tea as Hayley McQueen finally gets time to sit down in her chic apartment in central Chiswick. Tea, chocolate and chat. Talk about having it all.

The day job finds her trimmed up for the all-seeing Sky cameras, but behind the scenes, it’s jeans, trainers and a top knot.

Hayley might have been in the sporting spotlight for way over a decade, highly regarded in her field, but her job still carries a whiff of the so-called ‘man’s world’.

Things are changing. It’s really not a big deal to see a female sports presenter – reference the recent Olympic coverage. But Hayley was something of a pioneer.

“When I started out, a female reporter was quite unusual. There weren’t that many girls working in football, particularly young girls,” says the 36-year-old.

“It seems the older you get the more respected you are and the less of an issue it is. But I think when you start out people think that you are getting into it for the wrong reasons. People might think it’s glamorous. It’s not. I’ve reported pitch-side for the reserves, stood at the side of the pitch – freezing – sat amongst a load of rowdy blokes. It’s not that glamorous.

“It’s probably a generation thing. I still think there are some 60-70-year-old guys who think there isn’t a place for women within football, but guys of my generation think it’s completely normal.

“At Sky it’s important to keep the balance. It’s a 50/50 divide between men and women in the studio and especially on air, so you don’t really feel like you’re working in a man’s world.”

For Hayley, it’s important to remain confident in her role. She says, “I do worry about younger girls who are coming up through the industry. Girls who are obsessed by how they look because they have people telling them they have to look a certain way to succeed.”

We live in a world driven by social media. A world where it’s easy to get access to public figures and delve into their personal lives.

Comments can provoke backlash, particularly when you’re in the limelight.

Hayley has learned to rise above the personal comments that come her way on social media but admits that if someone questions her judgment on sport, it’s difficult to bite her tongue.

“The weird thing is, if I were 25 and somebody commented, it would probably get to me more, but the older you get, the less you care.

I can handle stuff that people say about my physical appearance because for me, that’s secondary to being knowledgeable. Whereas if someone questions my credentials, or my knowledge, that really bothers me.”

Not only is she the female face of football, a sports presenter and a reporter, she is also a public figure and a role model to many.

Staying tuned on social media is an important part of reaching out to fans, but the negative impacts the internet can have are well documented.

“The opinions that people have on Twitter can sometimes get frustrating. I’ve got a following and sometimes I am afraid to voice an opinion because of the amount of backlash.

“It’s never women; girls will very much support other girls. And I think because I’m curvy, I’m not some Victoria’s Secret-looking

female, that I can appeal to more people – they know I’ve worked hard. Girls kind of stick together, we root for each other.

“Whereas, with some guys I think, how on earth do you think that is acceptable, to tell me to ‘get back to the kitchen’? I just think to myself, what era are you living in?

“I don’t find sexism from within the industry and in the workplace – it’s the minority of football fans who cast an opinion on Twitter – a remark from some kind of dark age.”

For an escape from the sporting frenzy, Hayley heads to the place she calls home – the village of Hutton Rudby near Yarm.

Wide smiles all round as she ponders this little corner of North Yorkshire.

“I still do all of my clothes shopping in the North East. I buy loads of my clothes in Yarm. I get all of my fruit and veg from Roots on the A19 before the long drive back down to London. I bring back Yorkshire gin, shortbread, tea… everything. I basically just bring the North East back down with me, like a home comfort. It’s like when you go abroad and you miss all of the delicacies from back home, so you take them with you!

“It’s really weird, I’ll often have bits of clothing on and people will ask, where’s that from? And it’s always a shop up North: Jules B, The House or Psyche. People down here are like, what are these places?

“I quite like that. I’m coming to London and I’ve got little bits and bobs that people don’t have down here. If people visited Psyche and Triads, and some of the little independent shops on Linthorpe Road in Middlesbrough, I think they would be surprised.”

When she’s not kitting out her wardrobe with local goodies, she heads to great country pubs on the doorstep.

“We go to the Crathorne Arms, spend time in the Bay Horse in Hutton Rudby and drive out to the Golden Lion in Osmotherly. And obviously you’ve got the slightly more raucous nightlife in Yarm – if you can even call it that these days – who knows? I remember the old days in Yarm,” she jokes.

The old days, of course, take us back to her humble beginnings at Boro TV. After a sixth month internship with Richard and Judy on ITV’s This Morning, a young Hayley knew that her next move had to be one that involved sport.

“It was perfect timing. After spending time in London at university, it was nice to come home and to start my career working for my home team.”

As an ‘adopted Teessider’, her bond with Middlesbrough Football Club was an unexpected one. Her dad Gordon took the family from Scotland to Middlesbrough to take up a coaching role with Bryan Robson, and she became a fan by default. She vividly recalls the journey to Teesside.

“I remember driving through Wilton, and it just looked so industrial to us. We were like, where are you taking us dad? I was protesting; I didn’t want to move. I had just had my fifteenth birthday and I was half way through a school year. It was a big change and it all happened very quickly. But that’s football.”

But just weeks later, settled in Hutton Rudby, the McQueens had set up a forever home in the North East. And with Middlesbrough back in top-flight football, in an era with big name signings such as Juninho, Ravanelli and Emerson, it seemed the perfect start for the family of five.

“My first ever game was Middlesbrough v Oxford United and it was at Ayresome Park.

“The club were doing great and everything just clicked for us; >>

SEP/OCT16

SETTLING SCORES

SEP/OCT16

47

SETTLING SCORES

I am very lucky that I work on the best league in the world.

The reach is far and wide. In Thailand for example, I was in a taxi in Bangkok and the driver was telling me all about Middlesbrough FC. He almost knew as much as me!

48

the football, the area, the people – and since then, it’s been home.

“So when I say I’m going home, people think I’m going back to my apartment in London, but really I mean Teesside. The funny thing is, I’m 36 now and I’m thinking, gosh my home is actually still at my mum and dads,” she laughs.

Hayley’s early days at Boro TV are where she learned the key skills that set her on her way as an influential sports broadcaster. And for that, she gives her thanks to ‘the voice of Boro’ himself, Alistair Brownlee who sadly died late last year. After attending the pundit’s funeral back in the North East earlier in the year, she recalled her close relationship with the Boro legend.

“I learnt what passion and hard work was, sitting next to him for all those years with that booming voice, which wasn’t just saved for commentaries. He was a father figure to us; a bunch of kids starting careers in broadcasting, but Ali was really just a big kid himself and one of the kindest men I have ever met. He was the eternal optimist; he saw the good in everyone. I’ve never known anyone like him.

“I’m proud to call the North East home and as an adopted Teessider, I couldn’t be more proud of everyone in Middlesbrough coming together as one to say goodbye to one of a kind.”

Talking about the North East, Hayley admits that, although the bright lights of London are where she has established herself in the world of sport, she misses the little things about home.

“If I had it my way, I’d live in the North East like my sister does.

She moved back home after many years living the high life in London, working in fashion. I thought it would be the same for me, but for the job that I do, London is where I need to be right now.

“Visiting home is like a retreat. You’ve got the hustle and bustle of London at one end, then I can travel back up and unwind for a couple of days.

“I took my partner Kirk to visit recently. He loved it, he’s German/ Turkish, and so he’s never really been to the north of England.

“I was proud to show him what it’s all about. The stunning countryside and the amazing restaurants - we have Michelin stars and everything, some of the best gastro pubs in England are up North.”

She’s managed to find a gang of workmates who bring the North East to the office at Sky Sports HQ. “There’s a gang of us at Sky; there’s Tom White, who’s a Sunderland fan, Pete Graves who is a big Newcastle fan and we’ve got Dave Jones who grew up in Great Ayton. And then obviously there’s Jeff Stelling and Kammy (Chris Kamara), so whenever I see them it’s like having a little bit of home at work. We all chat about the local football teams and what’s going on in the area.

“Elsewhere there’s Steph McGovern at the BBC, who I don’t know all that well, but as another female in the industry, you champion those people from your area. Our area gets a lot of stick and it really bothers me.

“Kay Murray is one of my best friends who started out as a ‘Boro Babe’ and worked for Boro TV, worked for Real Madrid TV, and now she’s working for beIN Sports, living out in Miami. It’s great to see that people have moved on, but are still so proud of their home town.”

Before her time at Sky Sports, McQueen spent four years at Manchester United TV (MUTV), a football club close to her heart, with fond memories of her dad’s days as one of Manchester United’s most successful defenders.

Growing up in a famous footballing family, watching football was just part of everyday life. But with hard work and determination, she paved her own television career and sporting expertise.

“I think the fact that I have a dad who has been a footballer and has worked in football, people have said, ‘oh your dad helped you with the job’. Yes, he helped me with an understanding, with the passion and with a love for the game, but it’s been my training and genuine interest that’s got me here.

“I’ve seen my dad come through the ranks of being a player, a coach, a manager, as a scout, as a pundit, and as a consultant. I have seen him working in all of these different roles, so I feel that I have a bit of an edge on some boys. If I was the son of a footballer, it would be the same, but I’d probably be playing the sport, so the next best thing is presenting football, and that’s just how it is.

With several new projects on the go, including a presenting slot on 5Live alongside Ian Wright, Saturday’s spent presenting live Premiere League football exclusive to Sky Sports viewers in Ireland, and flagship highlights programme ‘Match Choice’, Hayley has a lot going on.

“I am very lucky that I work on the best league in the world. The reach is far and wide. I’ve travelled a lot in my time as a presenter, spending time in Thailand for example, where they are football mad.

I was in a taxi in Bangkok and the driver was telling me all about Middlesbrough FC. He almost knew as much as me!”

And as the new season gets underway with Middlesbrough back in the best league of all, Hayley looks forward to crossing paths with her home team and supporting them on what she hopes to be a “long and successful journey in the Premier League.”

Not just a presenter, but also an experienced journalist, a sports personality and a genuine football fan. Whether she’s London based, travelling the world or heading back ‘home’ for a refreshing break, the Sky is the limit.

SEP/OCT16

SCANDI-LICIOUS

WELCOME!

Hi - or Hej as they say in Sweden!

That’s where I went for my summer holiday and I’ve come home all Scandi!

with Nina Robinson

What a fab place Stockholm is for kids. We spent nine days hopping around the city’s 14 islands and then ventured out to explore some of the 30,000 islands of the Stockholm Archipelago. Much of our time in the city was spent on Djurgården – or Pleasure Island as we renamed it! Packed with museums, galleries, the amazing Gröna Lund amusement park, this place is perfect for Little Luxes and their grownups alike. Some of my highlights included the outdoor museum Skansen – a kind of Swedish Beamish – Junibacken where Pippi Longstocking, the Moomins and other Swedish characters from children’s literature come to life, and the dizzy heights of the Eclipse giant swings that soar 400ft above Stockholm on 26ft long chains…

In Stockholm I also got to enjoy my first ever spa experience, complete with infinity pool, Swedish saunas and ice rub!

Tack Stockholm! x

What softies! >> Archipelago

Bring a bit of stylish Sweden into your toy box with the gorgeous Oskar&Ellen range. The Stockholm company specialises in soft fabric toys - my faves include the doorway theatre and café (£61.99), that’s a stage for the show and a café for the interval with cool ice cream set, (£26.99) oskarandellen.com

<< Angelic woollies It’s important to have the right woollies at the ready when those autumn gusts start blowing and Angel’s Face has some heaven-sent solutions. I love the faux fur pom-pom hat that comes in its own miniature hat box (£25). It teams gorgeously with the 60’s vibe chunky knit jumper (£50) Angels-face.co.uk

>> BIRDHOUSE TOUR – TUESDAY 20 SEPTEMBER UNTIL SUNDAY 16 OCTOBER From 20 September to 16 October, intu Metrocentre will be home to 15 giant-sized bird boxes, individually decorated by a flock of famous faces, for the last stop on The Big Birdhouse Tour.

The tour, created by intu, is a nationwide initiative to inspire everyone to give nature a home and raise money for and awareness of the work of the RSPB, Europe’s largest nature conservation charity.

Celebrities such as Steve Backshall, George Clarke, Jo Whiley, Vic Reeves and Rebecca Adlington have each contributed a design, to create a fun, informative and interactive display.

And, along with, chance to explore the birdhouses, shoppers will be able to snap up a range of RSPB bird boxes and badges, while children can take part in a special hide and seek trail.

For more information, please visit www.intu.co.uk/metrocentre >> OCTOBER - HALF TERM MONDAY 24 – SUNDAY 30 OCTOBER Get ready to have a free-ky half term this October with intu Metrocentre and treat your little pumpkins to some magical fun in the centre.

Treat your kids to free Halloween activities from Monday 24 until Sunday 30 October in Exhibition Square.

For more information, please visit www.intu.co.uk/ metrocentre

<< Kicking shell!

Booyakasha! How awesome is the new collection of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Dr. Martens?! They’d certainly make the perfect finishing touch to your cinema outfit when venturing out to see the new film, Out of the Shadows (as well as for any sewer-exploring, pizza eating or martial arts mastering you plan to do). And great news for turtle-loving mums and dads – they come in big sizes for you too! Range from £60 to £125.

Available from Dr Martens store, Newcastle as well as drmartens.com

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N i n a : lo v e s >> Stone Island long sleeved shirt from Flannels, Lower Platinum Mall, intu Metrocentre, £98

SEP/OCT16

THE SPA AT RAMSIDE

OUR SPA MEMBERSHIP GIVES YOU TIME TO RELAX, REFOCUS AND GET BACK TO BEING YOU!

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The Spa At Ramside Hall Hotel Carrville Durham DH1 1TD *T’s & C’s Not valid in conjuction with any other offer, subject to availability and non transferable, non-refundable and has no monetary value if not taken. Complimentary treatment must be taken before December 15th 2016.

XXXXXXXXLOVIN’ SUMMER

LIVING IT UP

with Alok Loomba and Varsha Sehgal It’s been a summer of hip beach clubs, beautiful people and lots of lovely lounging for our style duo

Alok

Varsha

THRILLED BY >> There’s been some summer loving in my world - I’ve been to some stunning weddings in my time but the two I have attended in the last few weeks have really blown me away.

The first was the marriage of one of my closest friends, Jane Bilclough to Jonathan Pepper.

The wedding took place in the glamorous mecca for the Geordie jet set - Puerto Portals, Mallorca. The festivities began with a fabulous rooftop pre-wedding party overlooking the yachts in the port with the open sea beyond.

The wedding itself was at Castillo de Bendinat, a 19th Century Gothic Castle with vast, impressive grounds (see above). Everything about the wedding was understated luxury. From the venue itself to the delicious Mediterranean canapés with ingredients like foie gras and shellfish being passed round during the champagne reception. The groom and groomsmen were classically dressed in navy blue suits, with the bride looking stunning in a lace-detailed dress with a show-stopping long veil. The band was followed by a top DJ who plays at Nikki Beach - so as you can imagine the dancing went on until the wee hours of the morning.

Having arrived back from Mallorca I barely had time to unpack before attending the wedding of my friend, and colleague, Cheryl Beenshill to John Ball. The wedding took place in Hexham Abbey.

The fleet of pristine white Rolls Royces parked outside the Abbey certainly sparked the interests of the locals as the beautiful bride and groom made their way out of the Abbey.

We all headed to Slaley Hall which had been booked for exclusive use. Drinks on the terrace in the sunshine were accompanied by canapés and live entertainment. No sooner had I finished my first glass of something sparkling when the guests’ attention was drawn to the sound of a helicopter approaching the Slaley Hall fairway - which had transported the bride and groom from the Abbey to the reception. An entrance that’s hard to beat.

The whole wedding was a wonderfully glamorous, glittering and luxurious experience.

The bride wore two stunning dresses during the course of the wedding. For the ceremony a traditional pristine white gown and in the evening a Riki Dalal Couture evening dress.

After the delicious dinner we were treated to a live performance by Shane of Westlife fame who gave us some of the best hits from Westlife’s back catalogue.

A real crowd-pleaser.

THRILLED BY >> Sat on the centre line of what will always remain St. James’ Park to me, I felt an awesome surge of pride as we won our friendly against SBV Vitesse and though not a huge footy fan, I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t thrilled to have Rafael Benitez on the home side. It looks like we are headed for an eventful season, here’s hoping it’s for all the right reasons!

TRAVELLED TO >> I always love going to Mallorca - it has everything that one could want on holiday great food - hot weather - good shops and great night life.

Whether the fishing port of Andraitx is your cup of tea or you enjoy the glitz and the flash of Portals, Mallorca has something for everyone. I am going to try and get out again for a few days before the season is over.

TASTED >> India is a country of 29 state and each with its own cuisine. As an Indian born and raised in the subcontinent, I sometimes feel the western palate needs honing beyond the chicken tikka masala and vindaloo. Ury is one such restaurant in Newcastle that offers different and dare I say, more adventurous flavours. The succulent lamb madras and the chemmeen masala with flaky malabar paranthas are a great place to start.

TRIED ON >> Square is on the way out and round is well and truly in when it comes to sunglasses that is. The current trend in fashionable eyewear is for more rounded frames.

I particularly like this tortoiseshell pair from YSL. Tortoiseshell is bang on trend and it suits all skin tones. Available from Saint Laurent at £260.

THINKING ABOUT >> With all the travel I’ve done recently thoughts turned to luggage.

Imagine my delight when I came across the new range of luggage from the seriously stylish fashion house of Louis Vuitton. The new Monogram Eclipse range is absolutely stunning. LV was founded in 1854 in Paris and its express purpose was to produce the world’s best and most luxurious luggage. A great choice for the upscale gentleman traveller.

At £1,750 it isn’t quite in my price range but one can dream...

TEMPTED BY >> Recently I was in Bodrum where I came across the handiwork of Sevan Bicakci. A maestro in his field, he produces handmade jewellery inspired by the Ottoman and Byzantine periods. Each one­-off piece is a work of art and produced painstakingly. Soon to be showcased at Sotheby’s, his collection includes a ring that I almost lost myself in.

The intricacies of the design mean it took him almost three years to finish it. Someday soon I hope to own that little treasure.

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TRAVELLED TO >> Recently my wanderlust took me back to Ibiza, a place most people associate with hedonistic debauchery but I see as a haven of blue skies, sun kissed beaches, azure seas and a laid back vibe.

Despite several visits, I have never felt the need to be part of the wild club scene and nor have I felt as though I’ve missed anything, there has always been so much more to fill my time with. Rubbing shoulders with DJs like David Guetta and Calvin Harris is so much more pleasurable from the comfort of one’s sunlounger by the poolside at the Ibiza Gran renowned for being the best address in town, it houses the Cipriani restaurant, a buzzing casino and excellent spa.

Whether the day brings activities like sailing, quad biking, watersports or walking the streets of Ibiza Town, this little island has no dearth of fabulous restaurants or beautiful beaches to offer, my favourite being: Cotton Beach Club Cala Tarida perched on a hill, this is the most happening rooftop in Ibiza. Book a 3pm seating and enjoy the panoramic view along with the divine paella, seafood, wine, glitterati, live singers and band.

Juan y Andrea to miss a day on the seas, a trip to the island of Formentera, dipping your toes in the bluest waters of the Med and lunch at the Juan y Andrea would be tantamount to a crime. Serving the freshest of seafood, first­rate wines and picture­ perfect views, this restaurant is well deserving of the stripes it has earned over the years.

Blue Marlin in the light of day, the party happens here. A cabana by the sea, champagne on ice, tunes by hippest DJs, great food and beautiful people all around what’s not to love?

KM5 exotic sheeshas, fine champagnes, excellent examples of Japanese and Peruvian food and retail therapy in their in­house eclectic boutique (open till 3am) all lend this place a very glamorous vibe.

Lios undoubtedly offers the the best vantage point overlooking Ibiza Town. I love its much celebrated colourful cabarets, surprise acts by mega stars, delicious seafood, creative cocktails and electric atmosphere.

TRIED ON >> I recently changed serums opting for the La Praire Cellular Serum Platinum Rare.

It delivers what it promises, is a real treat for the skin and money well spent.

THINKING ABOUT >> A few weeks ago I visited a Blood Donor Centre but because I was on antibiotics I wasn’t able to finish the task I had set myself. In life it’s important to give back and I’m a firm believer that we have a social and moral obligation to help wherever we can.

We all know donating blood can literally save lives, so before my bravado fails me, I’m frantically trying to find another date in my diary to fit it in again.

SEP/OCT16

# BeBrilliant

WITH THE FALL COLLECTION

DISCOVER MORE AT SWAROVSKI.COM

CHILL FACTOR

Weekend break essential Samsonite Special Limited Edition Lite Shock Cabin Case, £249, John Lewis Sonos Play 5, £395.00 www.petertyson.co.uk

Ballyfin jacket, £599 www.dubarryboots.com

What’s up for the

darker days?

Cosy-up and stay warm or grab your weekend getaway kit…

Backpack like Bear – Alpha Bravo Knox backpack by Tumi, £365 www.amara.co.uk Fox Brothers Prince of Wales Check Coat £395, Rib Merino Wool Jumper £109, Straight Leg Japanese Denim Jeans £89 www.jigsaw.com

Shower in style L:A Bruket soap on a rope, lemongrass £21.50 www.amara.co.uk

Bose Soundsport Wireless Headphones £139.95 www.petertyson.co.uk

Wool Pea coat £279, Fisherman Rib Wool Jumper £119, Bloomsbury Italian Tailored Trousers £109 www.jigsaw.com

Mulranny gilet, £149 www.dubarryboots.com

Time for softy slippers?

Ugg mules, £70. Fenwick Newcastle Pixel perfect.

GX80 camera, £599.95 John Lewis

Timepieces inspired by the engineering of fighter jets and flying machines £340 www.avi-8.co.uk

Stay smooth. Dermalogica Post Shave Balm, £27.35

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Speaker-easy sounds – the stylish Helsinki portable sound machine from Vifa, £300 www.amara.co.uk

SEP/OCT16

XXXXXXXX

LA DOLCE VITA Hip hotels with Debrah Dhugga Deb feels some Latin love and penthouse pleasure on a luxe break to Rome

Romantic Roma for a weekend escape

Restaurant La Pergola by Chef Heinz Beck is situated on the top floor of the hotel with a stunning rooftop terrace, so magical at night

HOTEL >> Rome Cavalieri, part of the Waldorf Astoria collection, is one of Italy’s grand dame hotels. Perched high above the city on verdant Monte Mario, it shimmers with style; offering everything from its own private art collection to Rome’s only three Michelin starred restaurant. Frankly, it is amazing.

Take in three gorgeous outdoor swimming pools and a huge, beautiful spa, fitness club and tennis courts. It’s serene - and a real escape for a couple of days. The rooms are spacious with private balconies, fresh flowers – just dreamy.

20 minutes by car into the heart of the city and popular sites such as the Colosseum and St Peter’s. There’s a free shuttle bus to take you into the city centre and back, which runs regularly throughout the day.

FOOD >> The hotel is home to Rome’s only threeMichelin starred restaurant, La Pergola by Chef Heinz Beck. Situated on the top floor of the hotel with a stunning rooftop terrace it is so magical at night - the restaurant is guaranteed to impress food lovers or that special someone! Amazing food and a wonderful wine list with tip top service.

For true Italian dining, L’Uliveto is a popular choice on the terrace overlooking the swimming pool. We enjoyed a fabulous Sunday Brunch; antipasto is prepared, oysters shucked, rare beef carved with a flourish. All you have to do after that is lie by the pool and chill out in the afternoon, perfect!

TREATS >> The Rome Cavalieri’s opulent Ancient Rome-themed Grand Spa Club covers more than 25,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor pools, Turkish baths, saunas and ten treatment rooms. A couple’s massage is the perfect way to relax in style and some of the more indulgent treatments involve the use of caviar, champagne and rose petals for a truly unforgettable experience - I was in heaven.

THRILLS >> A fun and romantic way to experience the city is to make like Gregory Peck and Audrey Hepburn in the 1953 film ‘Roman Holiday’, by taking a vintage Vespa tour by night. We had such a giggle, it was so much fun and such a different way to spend the evening, relaxed and memorable.

We were feeling the need for the ultimate treat and booked the Penthouse Suite for a wildly extravagant roof terrace with hot tub and views across the entire Rome skyline. You don’t really need to move far all weekend!

DESIGN >> Surprisingly housed in a striking 1960s building, the hotel’s interiors, magnificent spiralling chandelier and circular staircase

were designed by international architects Pier Luigi Nervi and Franco Albini. The hotel’s walls are lined with impressive art works, including a Tiepolo triptych in the lobby, original Andy Warhols, ornate 19th century antiques and even original Nureyev costumes worn for the first act of Giselle in 1971 and the second act of Giselle of 1977.

LOCATION >> Perched on a hilltop overlooking the entire city, the hotel has an incredibly romantic view, best enjoyed from your private balcony with an aperitivo in hand! The hotel is also set within 15 acres of private Mediterranean parkland so provides the best of both worlds; peace, quiet and relaxation or Rome’s sights, cultural spots and shopping just a short distance away. Although you are not in the centre, you are within easy reach when you need a fix of hustle and bustle.

THE AREA >> Rome Cavalieri sits majestically on Monte Mario, the hill that dominates Rome and the Vatican to the north-west. The hotel is about

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Factbox...

Deluxe rooms with a residential view start from Euro 265.00 (fully flexible and room only)/. Imperial rooms with a residential view start from Euro 356.00 (fully flexible and room only). For more information, reservations and enquiries www.romecavalieri.com Cavalieri Hotel Address: Via Alberto Cadlolo, 101, 00136 Roma, Italy Phone: +39 06 35091 www.romecavalieri.com Getting there Jet2 fly from Newcastle and Leeds Bradford direct to Rome (Fiumicino) www.jet2.com

SEP/OCT16

GLOSSY GETAWAY

Find your

happy place

Harrogate is so much more than Bettys buns and hanging baskets: it’s grown up and very glossy. Kathryn Armstrong stays awhile From Newcastle just head down the A1 and you’re there in a little over an hour.

West Park belongs to Yorkshire pub group, Provenance Inns. They set high standards in food and surroundings.

Sunday afternoon and we arrived during the weekly live jazz session in the bar.

The hotel’s décor definitely has a nod to now. Filament lights, hints of copper and touches of teal. It’s all nicely manicured and a pleasing place to spend some time.

We were in a suite overlooking The Stray – with full-length doors looking over the wide green space.

The rooms are contemporary with shades of grey for the wardrobes and hints of calming blues on the textured walls and upholstered headboards.

Lovely underfloor heating in the bathroom, fresh glossy magazines, pod-coffee and home-made cakes add to that legendary Harrogate happiness.

The hotel group is good at the special stuff – seasonal cocktails, ladies’ lunches, wine dinners, and drinks masterclasses, that kind of thing. They’ve got a lunch coming up with Judy Bell of Shepherd’s Purse Cheese at the end of September.

Food promises to pay attention to the Provenance of the groups name with name-checked ingredients and a lot of local love when it comes to suppliers and growers.

The evening menu covers all the bases. It’s gastro at its best with much made of the kitchen’s Bertha grill promising the seal of succulence to ribeyes, fillet steak and even whole seabass.

Portions come Yorkshire-perfect. Among starters were a good Harrogate blue cheese and spinach soufflé. Lovely and moussey with a nice punchy cheese.

A starter of king scallops brought forth chunky seared beauties, lovely in their silky sweet softness with the punch of crumbly black pudding and soft texture of pea puree beneath.

Harrogate is officially very happy. Three times it’s been voted so in those ‘best places to live’ surveys.

Property gurus Kirsty Allsopp and Phil Spencer are regular visitors with house-hunters yearning to find their forever home in this ultimate location, location, location.

The reason isn’t hard to see. Outwardly it is a grandlooking town with swathes of green space, ravishing hanging baskets and even an RHS outpost at Harlow Carr.

The heritage of Harrogate’s place as the ultimate northern spa town gives it a gloss that endures.

People want to live there because it’s easy to scour the local shops for their organic offerings and independent ethos. Not to mention the good schools – and Waitrose.

But there’s a sparkle of bling around the edges too for the weekender visitor with smart shops, classy restaurants and relaxed places to stay.

Where in days gone by a visit was about the lure of the restorative spa waters, today those waters are more likely to be replaced by a cheeky Slingsby gin or more likely still, a glass of Laurent Perrier rose as you ponder your Jo Malone purchases.

Our base for an overnight stay was the West Park Hotel overlooking The Stray.

If it’s good enough for Sir Roger Moore (he paid a visit when he was attending an event in the town) then it works for us.

Getting to Harrogate is easy as pie – travelling from Teesside it’s about the same distance as a hop to Newcastle in the car.

SEP/OCT16

Hot in Harrogate Reasons to take a trip to the stylish spa town It’s the home of Slingsby Gin, named after the William Slingsby who discovered the unique properties of the Tewit well in Harrogate, making it a popular spa town.

On Montpellier Parade, Spirit of Harrogate is the home of Slingsby Artisan Gin in its cool apothecary-styled gin shop – yes, you can sample.

Weetons, is a sumptuous food hall, café and deli, renowned locally for its delicious food, local produce, award-winning butchery counter and friendly atmosphere.

Take a breath on The Stray right opposite West Park Hotel. The famous 200 acre Stray, is the town’s green lung – and in spring boasts over 6 million crocuses.

RHS Harlow Carr on the outskirts of Harrogate is one of Yorkshire’s most relaxing and innovative gardens. Pick up the latest tips and growing techniques in the beautiful Kitchen Garden, with its raised beds, fruit trees and a forager’s garden.

Slip into the Spa. Harrogate’s Spa crown is the beautifully restored Victorian Turkish Baths with exotic Moorish architecture and Italian mosaics of a traditional steam room. It’s a mini oasis of calm with lots of different packages to try.

The Mercer Art Gallery is a lovely building with permanent and visiting exhibitions from artists including William Powell Frith, Atkinson Grimshaw, Sir Edward Burne-Jones, Dame Laura Knight, Alan Davie and many more.

Shop, shop, shop Fashion The place to find some designer labels and the best of the upmarket favourites such as Toast, White Company, Whistles, Brace, Caroline Charles, Max Mara and Hawick Cashmere.

Lynx sells labels such as Penny Black, DKNY, Vilagall, - the designer store is right next to West Park hotel.

The area near Montpellier Parade is awash with great designer shops.

Morgan Clare sells labels such as Acne, Bella Freud, Helmut Lang and Self-Portrait.

Rocca is an award-winning boutique with labels including Goat and Victoria Beckham.

Elegant Era sells the best in genuine vintage clothing and Oaks is a sweet boutique housed in a fairytale folly. Sophie Likes is a sweet independent clothes-cumgifty shop.

Interiors & more Ribeye from that Bertha grill came recommended.

Best served medium to get that creamy fat at its best, the ribeye was neatly griddled for maximum char/sear ratio then juicy red and tender within. Bearnaise sauce, tomatoes and thrice-cooked chips completed this classic.

I had a whole lobster thermidor, which was nicely meaty and the light cheese/mustardy sauce never overwhelming.

It came with skinny fries and a fulsome salad.

Desserts include a mighty lemon sundae and we dipped into nice home-made icecream – salted caramel – and sorbets, including zippy mango and lime.

Next morning we were impressed by a fine breakfast menu. You don’t usually have a trauma of decision at that time of day. In the end salmon and potato pancakes with crème fraiche and smoked salmon won me over. Lovely.

When breakfast brings you some bling you know you’re in a good place.

Reasons to be cheerful – Harrogate gives you happy.

Westrow near the town’s station (and Waitrose!) is home to lovely linens store Woods to cater for every bedding need. Bang&Olufsen is here too and a lovely flower shop. Close by find stylish sofa and furniture store RAFT whilst Oka is close to the West Park Hotel. Richard Grafton Interiors is an impressive interiors showroom.

Food & drink Lots of nice eating places – brave the queues for Bettys and a fat rascal or swanky afternoon tea.

Filmore & Union is a good-looking clean-living and healthy-looking café on Westrow or there are many of the higher end chains – including the new CAU Argentine steakhouse and Carluccios.

Norse is a Scandinavian-inspired restaurant mentioned in dispatches by Jay Rayner no less.

Stuzzi gets rave reviews for as-good-as-it-gets authentic Italian food in n a cool and buzzy atmosphere.

www.thewestparkhotel.com

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SLEEPEASY

Luxury villas and boutique hotel rooms – so last year?

Sensational sleepovers If you crave swimming with fishes, clinging to a cliffside pod in Peru or fancy a cool vantage point for the Northern Lights, here’s our guide to stunning sleepover spots.

Balancing act: Adventure Suites, Peru

Down with the fishes: Manta Resort, Tanzania

This very unique ‘lodge’ is not for the faint-hearted, so look away now! The pods at Skylodge Adventure Suites are clasped to the cliffs above the beautiful Sacred Valley, affording incredible panoramas that you won’t get anywhere else. The tricky part is: you can only reach these mountainside capsules by scaling 1,000 feet up or hiking a trail through the ziplines, and the only way down is an exhilarating zipline ride afterwards – so daredevils and thrill seekers will be absolutely delighted.

Water babies will be in heaven at Manta Resort Pemba in Zanzibar, as you can go to sleep and wake up surrounded by the brilliant azure sea in their Underwater Room.

The bedroom of this unique castaway guestroom plunges 3m below the water’s surface and has wraparound glass walls so you can watch all manner of marine life swim around you. Above the bedroom is the lounge area, and above that is the top deck which is prime for sunbathing by day and stargazing by night; as there’s only one room type like this, you’ll be blissfully secluded with nothing but you and the fishes for company!

Sleep in a tree: Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses, New Zealand If the dream of sleeping in a treehouse has lingered ever since you were a kid, then Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses in New Zealand is just the ticket. Rubbing shoulders with the treetops on Kaikoura’s sweeping coastline, the luxury tree suites overlook dramatic mountains, olive groves and the spellbinding sea, where you can spot resident dolphins and whales. Come down from your tree sanctuary to tuck into heart-warming breakfasts and delectable three-course dinners, prepared by MasterChef finalist Fiona Read, and head out to sea in a kayak or on a surfboard.

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SEP/OCT16

SLEEPEASY

Northern Lights: ION, Iceland The great natural phenomenon that is the Northern Lights is a spectacle that makes it to many a bucket list. Watching the lights illuminate the night skies from a totally unique Icelandic hideaway like ION is sure to make the experience all the more memorable, with its impressive angular design and array of tempting offerings. From the heated outdoor pool to the celebrated Silfra Restaurant, there’s no shortage of spectacular settings to watch the dancing light show from. The remote, volcanic surroundings of the Golden Circle only add to the mythical atmosphere you’ll find yourself in here.

Airstream dream: Uyuni Vintage Airstreams, Bolivia Zip over to the heart of the vast and eerie Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia and spend the night in total seclusion in this vintage Airstream, a caravan not quite like any other.

The impossibly white salt flats stretch as far as the eye can see, a surreal landscape straight out of a sci-fi movie, so you’ll get to sleep knowing there’s nothing but you for mile upon mile. Dinner will be prepared for you by the chef, so feast outside in this spectacular setting as the stars emerge above you in an ever shifting sky of pinks, purples and blues.

Wake up on the water: Belmond Road to Mandalay, Myanmar Gliding along the Irrawaddy and Chindwin Rivers on a river cruise is a highlight on any Myanmar holiday, but sleeping on an elegant vessel itself, like the Belmond Road to Mandalay, is a whole new level of luxury. This exquisite boat will have you waking up to the melodious sound of Myanmar’s iconic waters, before indulging in a sumptuous feast for breakfast and watching the shifting river-scapes from the pool or observation deck.

See more on all the above at www.exsus.com See more at www.exsus.com

SEP/OCT16

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In association with:

luxe:looks Sir John Hall Diamond Wedding Party, Grand Marquee, Wynyard Hall

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!

Bond Dickinson Summer Party, Mansion House, Newcastle Below > Laura Jobson, Greg Moss

Above > Mike Walker, Pam Royle

Above > Tenori

Above > Neil long, Jan Goodwin, Susan Maxey, Lisa Cappleman

Below > Anne Olley, Ken Olley

Above > Sir John Hall, Lady Mae Hall

Below > Joan Antonopoulos, Brenda Cowan, Allison Antonopoulos

Below > Luke Busbridge, Sean Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brian

Above > Carlo Nardini, David Dale Above > Beth Douglass, Mark Antonopoulos Below > Greg Hall, Haley Blades

Above > John Cairne, Pat Cairne Below > Louise Heavisides, Granville Kelly, Julian Thomson

Above > Katherine Noble Duncan Noble, Matthew Sinclair, Sean Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien

Swinburne Maddison LLP Summer Soiree, Aykley Heads Durham

Above > Abu Ali, Gary Fawcett, Sarah Carr

Above > Jennifer Pearson, Kath Hill, Kate Stephenson, Jennifer Purvis, Carolyn Beal Above > Carl Swansbury, Michael Hopkins

Above > John Davison

Above > Robyn Peat, David Nairn, Megan Richardson, Robert Cummings Above > Chris Harrison, Steve Smith

www.lookers.co.uk 60

SEP/OCT16

SOCIAL LIFE

Tilly Bailey Irvin Afternoon Tea, Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle Below > Claire Heritage, Annaliesse Barber

Below > Gillian Duffy, Rachael Hall, Nicola Dalzell

Above > Angela Armbruster, Debra Burton, Sarah Martinson, Julie Walker, Carolynne Spence Above > Helen Stewart, Emma Palleschi

Above > Sarah Frank, Heather Smith

The Commitments at Rockliffe Hall Below > Joseph Hartley, Serena Hartley, Paul Irving, Jane Irving, Iain Corser, Lucy Hartley

Above > Kerry Pearson, Carolyn Galula

Lloyd BMW Newcastle, NEO Orthodontics Summer BBQ Below > Amit Nayyar, Asad Razaq, Martin Timonthy, Michael Perry

Below > James Vincent, Sean Bell, Andrew Clark

Above > Julian Haywood, Nicky Haywood, Louise Clarke, Lester Clarke Below > Kenny ChooFunYoung, Ash Quraishi and Gaurav Jamnasdass

Above > Colin Wilson, Lynn Wilson, Michael Groves, Julie Groves

Above > Ed Atkinson, Sue Atkinson, Steve Osbaldeston, Shirley Osbaldeston

Above > Carl Palmer, Paul Mansell, Alice Lawson, Chris Pattern

Below > Amy Johnson, Mark Rivett

Above > John Wears, Patricia Wears

Above > Carole Jameson, Sally Jones, Lyndsey Atkins, Dawn Atkinson, Michelle Jones, Charlotte Unsworth

Below > Andrew Richardson, Helen Cheney

Above > Darren Cannell, Julie Carr, Danielle Nichol Above > Richard Skinner, Michelle Caveney,

Below > Barry Atkins, Chris Atkinson, David Atkins, Eddy Jones

Below > Danielle Brown, Diane Stevenson

Above > Max Loring, Alex Jenkins

Above > Carol Easton, Colin Easton

www.lookers.co.uk SEP/OCT16

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SOCIAL LIFE

Provenance Inns Cleveland Tontine Launch

Below > Darren Bosi, Richard Wood, Colin Scandle, Toby Scott

Below > Professor Davide Sharpe OBE, Tracey Sharpe, Richard Doyle, Sarah Doyle

Above > Louise Thompson, Jeetesh Prajapati

Lloyd BMW Newcastle Golf Day, Close House, Heddon on the Wall

Above > Polly Blundell, Chris Blundell, Steve Gibson OBE

Above > Eugene Hill, Jackie Hill, Jill Alexander, Trevor Alexander

Below > Karen Sillars, Rosemary Taylor, Rod Taylor, Duncan Sillars

Below > Gordon Quince, Steve Harper, Peter Henderson, Ken Forsyth

Above > Gary Bingley, Brian Thorpe, Paul Reed, Graham Dagleish

Above > Derek Brown, Anne Brown, Janis Rotondi, Pasq Rotondi Below > Jayne Preston, Anne Preston, Michael Ibbotson, Biddy Simpson, Nina Campbell

Below > John Russell, Bob Wray, Norman Pickering, John Williams

Above > Tony Thompson, Rosie Page, Alan Morton, Rebecca O’Connell, David Deacon

Livello Ladies’ Day at Newcastle Races

Above > Richard Skinner, Conor McKernan, Mick O’Hara

Water Aid 35th Anniversary, Auckland Castle Below > Cameron Lovell, Pam Lovell, Janine Scott, Valerie Scott

Below > Lauren Jade, Charlotte Ashley Richards, Devon Hardisty

Above > Stephanie Langley, Sarah Grace, Faye Oughton, Gabrielle O’Connor

Above > Steve Salter, Sarah Salter, Barbara Gubbins, Sheila Chapman Below > Andrew Blakemore, Lisa Greenlee

Below > Imogen Mitchell, Bethany Hopwood, Erin Soulsby

Above > Alex Francis, Richard Green, Joe Wrangham, Aaron Chalmers, James Smith

Above > Shona Dixon, Dina Hutchinson Below > Nola Collinson, Johnathan Ruffer, Amanda McBride

Above > Dina Rzamamadli, Francesca Toole

Above > Ruth Beadle, Christian Bowles, Anne Fletcher, Michael Curry

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SEP/OCT16

Shoes: Pleasure and Pain VIP Preview, Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle Below > Mary Stastny, George Stastny

Below > Dianne Austin, Dr Peter Austin, Suzanne McBain, Norman McBain

Above > Caroline Peacock, Caroline, Neil Hardie-Hammond, John Wilson, Trish Pemberton

Above > Helen Persson, Hedley Swain, Lord Eccles, Lady Eccles

At Lookers we’re all about choice;

Above > Gina Kirtley, Julia Raw, David Raw

Below > Kara Johnson, Caz Hildebrand, Hope Alexander, Camille Blais Above > Mavis Hodgson, Kathleen Howcroft

Above > Sarah Quantrill, Jamie Robinson, Kate Clive-Powell, Pauline Murray

a choice of over 160 dealerships across the UK and Ireland, all with friendly and knowledgeable staff.

When it comes to your car, there really is only one choice.

Samling 20th Anniversary Gala Concert, Bywell Below > Marisa Dickson, Michael Dickson

Above > Bill Close, Helen Close, Barbara Butler, Tony Trapp

Above > Andrew Elliot, Deborah Walton, Tony Walton Below > Garry Burton, Barbara Butler, Margaret Hunt, Peter Hunt

Above > Tim Grinsted, Caroline Grinsted, Anne Stewart, Don Stewart Below > Ibrahim Najaf, Jane Najaf, Aisha Najaf Above > Adrian Gifford, Ingrid Gifford

Above > Andrew Hoyle, Frances Hoyle, Beatrijs Muylaert, Arnab Basu

Let’s see you! If you would like your event featured on our Luxe:Looks pages please supply images with full captions (We Transfer or Dropbox is best) to: kathryn@remembermedia.co.uk

SEP/OCT16

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LUXE LAPS Matthew Graham is a 20-year-old racing driver from the North East, who currently lives in Stamfordham. A highly regarded talent, he was the 2011 Under 18 World Karting Champion, with his record in that discipline eclipsing both Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button. After two impressive years junior single-seater racing, including winning the BRDC F4 Winter Series, spiralling costs took the higher echelons of that side of the sport further and further out of his reach and saw him switch to sports car racing for 2016. He currently races in the GT4 category of the prestigious British GT championship, in an Aston Martin V8 Vantage for the Macmillan Racing team. When not at the wheel, Matty helps out at the family owned Plough Inn in Stamfordham.

It looks amazing, is quick and is very luxurious as you’d expect but it has a practicality by being a four door car.

It’s definitely the sort of car I’d like to do the school run with in the future!

CHILDHOOD CAR CRUSH >> The Bentley Exp Speed 8. I remember seeing that car and loving it. It was a bit different from the other Le Mans cars about that time and as a kid, I didn’t really care about the facts and figures. It was all about the looks and if it sounded nice and won races... it did all that.

TRACKS OF YOUR TYRES >> It depends on where I’m going. A long journey to a race, it would be more chilled out music or some sing-alongs.

Going into town for a night out, it would be something a bit more bouncy. I like to think I’ve got a wide selection of music on my phone

CAPTAIN SLOW OR JEREMY >> Jeremy. He’s very funny and speaks his mind, though I don’t think he’s that much better a driver than James!

WHO SHOULD PRESENT TOP GEAR? >> It would never happen, but Sebastien Vettel along with Clarkson would be really good. Vettel has a bit of humour, is obviously a very talented driver and I think they would be quite a good combination.

WHAT’S IN THE GARAGE NOW >> Still my first car, a mark IV Renault Clio. I wanted something a little different and it had just come out so it stood out a little bit from your Corsas and the like.

It was a decent first car and it’s done me well.

DREAM ROAD TRIP >> Route 66 in a big American motorhome and doing it properly! Stopping off places, exploring, having barbecues at the side of the road. It’s a famous journey and some of the things you’d see there, you wouldn’t see anywhere else.

IF YOU COULD OWN ANY CAR >> I think you need a car for every occasion so I’d need a garage full! I always quite liked the Nissan GTR but if I had to choose one, it would be the Aston Martin Rapide.

WHO WITH >> Would have to be with my friends. Get a big group together, share the driving and just have a bit of an adventure.

MEMORABLE CAR MOMENTS >> Visiting Japan when I was racing in karts. It’s such a different culture, even something as universal as motor racing, there are big differences in how it is done over there. I enjoy new experiences and that really was new!

In a car, taking pole position for a BRDC F4 winter series race at Snetterton in 2013. It was my first year of racing cars and we hadn’t had much wet weather driving in the main series, where I finished fourth. It was November, and it was tipping down but I ended up taking pole position by about three seconds. Normally in those kinds of car, the gap is few tenths of a second, but the rain really let me show what I could do.

WHAT'S IN THE GLOVE BOX? >> Very little! The manual, paddock passes for race weekends and that’s about it! There’s not a massive amount of room in there!

HOW CLEAN IS YOUR CAR? >> It’s immaculate! I like to keep it clean both inside and out.

The only thing that might be in there that’s not part of it would be the odd water bottle.

SCARY MOMENTS? >> Starting a single seater race mid grid and in the rain!

You need a dose of brave pills before that! You can’t see anything but a wall of spray in front of you so you’re driving on sound and the marker boards at the side of the track and just hoping nobody’s had a moment.

Special thanks for the use of venue to Aston Martin Newcastle.

MATTHEW GRAHAM 64

SEP/OCT16

ADVERTORIAL

A690 specialist cars The dealer who does go that extra mile

It’s the personal touch that matters to specialist car dealer and businessman Phil Oldroyd

In the showroom and on the forecourt of A690 Specialist Cars on the A690, just outside of Durham City, cars on display have undergone rigorous selection and service It’s a point of principle for Phil and his team that the cars he sells – notably used Range Rover, Land Rover, Porsche, BMW, Mercedes and Audi - have been sourced from individuals rather than at auction.

It is company policy for the family-run business not to purchase any vehicles from auctions.

Instead, Phil and his team source vehicles from private individuals who are usually in the process of buying a new car from main dealerships.

This means they can scrutinise each vehicle before buying, ensuring peace of mind for the customers.

Each car meets the company’s high standards before reaching the forecourt.

So, for anyone starting out on a car-buying journey, they can can be reassured that

the dealership’s motors are in prime condition at the outset.

Phil has decades of experience in motor dealerships, having headed up a number of PLC car companies in the North East.

His expertise and commitment mean he is passionate about his business and its customers, offering them an exceptional service as well as competitive prices.

A690 Specialist Cars also offers repairs and service work on other makes and models of cars at it’s purpose-built, on-site workshop.

It is here that a team of professional and passionate technicians deliver a top-class service to every client.

The process of buying a new car should always be pleasant, and relaxed. At A690 Specialist Cars the emphasis is on a no-pressure approach, so that buying your new car is an enjoyable experience in a relaxed environment.

This approach allows the company to build trusting relationships with its customers and enjoy a high level of repeat business, as well as glowing recommendations and reviews.

A690 Specialist Cars also offers a range of impressive extras to ensure every customer’s experience is a positive one, including a pick-up and collection service within a 15-mile radius and courtesy cars on request.

Each vehicle also receives a complimentary

can be showcased in a highly professional environment. They have also invested in the very latest diagnostic equipment- some of which is used by Land Rover.

Prospective customers are encouraged to visit the dealership’s website, where they can read a number of independent reviews

valet when all work has been completed.

Always looking to improve and build on the dealership’s offering, Phil and the team have invested heavily in its look and feel over the last six months.

Most recently, the workshop has received a new extension and the team has extended the forecourt so that the cars

from satisfied customers and find out more about its services.

A690 Specialist Cars, Belmont Bridge, Carrville, Durham, County Durham, DH1 1LU Tel: (0191) 384 0070 www.a690specialistcars.co.uk

The emphasis is on a no-pressure approach, so that buying your new car is an enjoyable experience in a relaxed environment

SEP/OCT16

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DREAMY DRIVES

AT THE WHEEL Bob Arora gets to grips with some space-age tech in our motors round-up

Volvo’s hot one

Volvo has always been synonymous with safety, so its semiautonomous ‘Pilot Assist’ is one you’re definitely going to trust

Anyone who has read my car reviews with a good memory may actually remember my first car was a Volvo 340. My silver dream machine was quite old but that didn’t matter - it was my first car and I was proud as punch.

The electric windows didn’t work and it wasn’t very economical at all, but I do remember the car having great seats and it being built so strongly.

Another thing I still remember to this day were the daytime running lights, only Volvo and Saab drivers would have their side lights on no matter how bright it was. With LED running lights this wouldn’t be so unusual now but 25 years ago other drivers would flash you as they didn’t realise you had no control over them whatsoever.

Let’s fast forward to 2016 though and I can tell you I was very happy to drive Volvo’s new S90; this car is aimed at the BMW 5 series, Jaguar XF, Mercedes E Class and the Audi A6.

The previous Volvo was a firm favourite for taxi drivers and the police loved the sporty T5. This car was launched over 20 years ago, was always a boxy looking car and it still hasn’t lost the box styling but is far more cool now and totally different to its competitors.

Volvo is currently on a roll with the XC90 still selling like hot cakes, this doesn’t surprise me at all because it’s a fantastic car. With that in mind, I had very high expectations for this new S90. It’s based on the same chassis as the XC90 so Volvo should have another winner on its hands.

The S90 is being launched with two diesel engines. The first is the D4 which is a four-cylinder 2lt engine which gets to 62mph in 8.2 seconds and it emits 116g/km of co2. The

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other engine is badged D5 and that gets to 62mph in 7.3 seconds; this engine only comes with four-wheel drive and emits 127g/km of co2. There are also two petrol engines but they won’t be coming to these shores.

A hybrid S90 should be interesting as it has 402bhp and it emits a measly 44g/km of co2. Unfortunately I didn’t get a chance to drive this plug-in hybrid but I do think this car could really be the pick of the range. It will be great to see what the designers have up their sleeves with the R Design as this will turn the cars from slightly frumpy to full on sporty.

The car has been priced slightly higher than the equivalent 5 series which is a very bold move indeed. The base car is priced at £32,555 with the range topping car costing £45,000. The car has two trim levels. Momentum is the equivalent of BMW’s SE. Cars come with leather, dual zone climate control, LED headlights and a 9” infotainment screen which dominates the dash.

The top spec is Inscription which adds diamond cut alloys, nappa leather and a bigger display between the instrument dials. The cabin really is beautiful, the use of materials from the soft leather to the real wood, it’s a great place to spend time. The uncluttered facia design just oozes quality; my personal favourite is the stop start button - instead of pressing the button, you twist the knob to start the car, I know it’s a simple thing but it kept me happy.

There is plenty of room for the driver and passengers alike.

The Bowers & Wilkins speakers were excellent, they pump out 1400 watts from the 19 speakers and I’ve never heard Drake and Rihanna sound so good in my life.

The chassis is very comfortable - the ride is very relaxing but it isn’t as agile as the 5 series or the Jaguar XF. The

Volvo is a very refined long distance cruiser. Around corners and bends, it isn’t quite as fun as either the BMW or the Jaguar. The large alloys spoil the ride quality but they fill the wheel arches - knowing all of this I would opt for the large alloys all day long.

Volvo have always been pioneers of safety and technology and their latest innovation is Pilot Assist. This system works at speeds up to 20mph. It’s not fully autonomous but you have to keep your hands on the wheel and the car can keep you in the right lane and it watches out for any forthcoming hazards. It is semi-autonomous and it takes the strain out of busy commutes.

This car is a real breath of fresh air in this segment and the car’s interior is one of the best around right now. Volvos still feel like they are tanks, the doors close with a reassuring clunk and I do think anyone who is in the market for something a bit different should not hesitate to give this great car a chance.

Car courtesy of Mill Volvo

My personal favourite is the stop start button - instead of pressing the button, you twist the knob to start the car, a simple thing, but it kept me happy SEP/OCT16

EXHILIRATING DRIVE DAYS Register your interest at Aston Martin Newcastle for upcoming VIP events and drive days.

Don’t miss the opportunity to receive updates on some fantastic opportunities to experience our fabulous sports cars, at our state-of-the-art facility in Silverlink Newcastle. 24th & 25th September – Ride and drive event includes DB9GT, Rapide S and Vanquish. 29th & 30th October – Brunch and drive weekend, come along for a light brunch and a have a drive in your favourite Aston Martin.

(Don’t miss out - limited spaces available)

To register your interest and to receive your VIP invite please call 0191 263 5007 or email enquiries@astonmartinnewcastle.co.uk ASTON MARTIN NEWCASTLE, COBALT PARK WAY, SILVERLINK, NEWCASTLE, NE28 9NZ.

DREAMY DRIVES

Blue sky driving Bentley has really ramped up the luxury factor with the Bentayga, an SUV which powers to the max

For years and years now, the Range Rover has been the master of the off-roader.

They are so capable off road but they are also great for driving over long distances. There are plenty of manufacturers wanting to milk the SUV cash cow: Jaguar, Maserati, Lamborghini, Aston Martin and there is even talk of Rolls Royce building one!

When Porsche introduced the Cayenne to the world, purists of the brand were in uproar. But the car’s SUVs account for over 70% of all sales. It’s no wonder then, that car makers are desperate to get a piece of the action. Jaguar’s newly launched SUV the F Pace has become the company’s fastest ever selling car.

That brings me on to the car I’ve been driving this month, now get ready for this. I’ve been driving Bentley’s take on the luxury off roader, the Bentayga.

The designer’s brief was to build the world’s fastest, most luxurious off roader. As soon as you enter the car, you can’t help but be wowed by the interior. When you start the car and plant your foot on the accelerator your neck is pushed back into the headrest thanks to the unbelievable power. It feels like a power boat with the front end rising under acceleration.

Starting the car sounds amazing with the engines growlingit just makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand up.

Initially Bentley thought they would sell about 3,500 Bentayga’s per year but this has been increased to 5,500 units. Anyone fortunate enough to be invited to the factory will see Bentayga’s all over the place in various colours.

Now here is some news that will send a real shockwave through the very heart of Bentley purists’ necks; apart from the company launching an SUV, there is talk of a diesel engine being introduced for the Bentayga.

At the moment the car is fitted with a W12 6lt engine which produces 600bhp and it gets to 62mph in 4.1 seconds, with a top speed of 187mph; pretty impressive figures for a 2.4 tonne off roader. The car is priced from £160k but once you start ticking a few options the price quite easily jumps over the £200k mark.

One of the cheaper options is the cars over mats which are priced at £370 and believe me, they are very thick pile mats indeed. Music lovers will love the Naim premium audio system priced at £6,300 but the Tourbillon clock priced at £110k may even make a billionaire think twice about ordering one!

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The cars styling is very brash. The front is pure Bentley but the back looks a bit like an Audi Q7; no surprise then that the Bentayga is based on the same floor plan as the Audi.

The car is very colour dependant so if you’re lucky enough to buy one, make sure you get a dark colour with big alloy wheels.

I drove a car with 22” alloys and the ride was very comfortable indeed and opting for smaller alloys will improve the ride even more. The air suspension works a treat with most pot holes etc handled with ease.

Driving the car through winding roads it cornered with little or no body roll at all. The car has three driving modes from comfort, sport or Bentley mode. In Bentley mode the car drives the way the engineers would recommend.

Thanks to the double glazing the car is quiet at speed as well, beating all of its competitors quite easily. To help with economy, half of the car’s cylinders shut down. Power is split 40/60 with a bias of power going to the rear. Most owners will expect to return 15mpg around town and possibly about 23mpg on a long run. The car also has the ability to tow 3.5 tonnes and though I can’t see many owners having a caravan, I’m guessing it will come in handy for towing horse boxes.

The car’s interior just oozes quality, where robots are used for heavy lifting, every car is still hand made. The cars leather is just so sumptuous and the wood trims are multi

lacquered and very highly polished indeed. Depending on how deep your pockets are you can choose from Californian redwood or even Stone.

The Bentayga’s dash is dominated by an 8” touch screen, 60GB hard drive infotainment system. The integrated Sat Nav is very good indeed and also incorporates voice control, text to speak and Wi-Fi, along with other connectivity options.

The cars switches and buttons are still top notch, I was disappointed with the indicator stalks which looked cheap and in my opinion even the clock on the dash looked cheap despite being a Brietling.

Owners can choose from either three seats in the rear or two, with a raised transmission tunnel and both seats are massaging and they recline. Choosing the four seat car you lose out the chance to fold the rear seats. The boot isn’t massive and it only holds 431 litres of luggage.

The Bentayga’s styling makes it like Marmite, the car is an amazing off-roader with the luxury Bentley owners demand.

The Range Rover has real competition for the first time in years and unlike its competitors it’s hand-made in the UK. Car courtesy of Bentley Newcastle.

Start the car, plant your foot on the accelerator and your neck is pushed back into the headrest with unbelievable power

SEP/OCT16

The new Infiniti Q30 The new Infiniti Q30

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www.infinitinewcastle.com www.infinitinewcastle.com

Total amount of credit Total amount of credit £16,812 £16,812

Duration of agreement Duration of agreement 36 months 36 months

Optional final payment Optional final payment £10,147 £10,147

Total amount payable Total amount payable £19,396 £19,396

Rate of interest P.A. (Fixed) Rate of interest P.A. (Fixed) 5.73% 5.73%

APR Representative APR Representative 5.73% 5.73%

Official fuel economy figures for the model shown in mpg (l/100 km): combined 42.2 (6.7) to 68.9 (4.1). CO2 emission: 156 to 108 g/km.

Official fuelbroker, economy for the model shown inServices, mpg Eagle (l/100 km): 42.2Hertfordshire (6.7) to WD17 68.9 emission: 156 to 108may g/km.

We are a credit and not figures a lender. Finance provided

by Infiniti Financial House, 78 St combined Albans Road, Watford, 1AF.(4.1).

SubjectCO2 to status.

Guarantees and indemnities be required. You must be at least 18 and a UK resident (excluding the Isle of Man and Channel Islands). Terms and conditions apply, please visit your local dealer for full details. Offer based on 8,000 miles per annum, excess mileage 8p per mile. Offers not available in conjunction

We credit broker, notVehicle a lender.

Finance provided

by Infiniti fee Financial House, 78 Stand Albans Road, Watford, Hertfordshire WD17of1AF. Subject to status. SA, Guarantees and indemnities may1180 be required.

You must be at least withare anyaschemes or otherand offers. price includes first registration and 12Services, months’ Eagle road fund licence delivery costs.

Infiniti Europe Division Nissan International Zone d’Activités La Pièce 12, Rolle, Switzerland.

Terms and 18 and a UKapply. resident (excluding the of Man and Channel Islands).

Terms and conditions please visit your local dealer for full details. Offer based on 8,000 miles per annum, excess mileage 8p per mile. Offers not available in conjunction conditions Finance subject toIsle status.

All vehicles advertised available at time of goingapply, to press. with any schemes or other offers. Vehicle price includes first registration fee and 12 months’ road fund licence and delivery costs. Infiniti Europe Division of Nissan International SA, Zone d’Activités La Pièce 12, 1180 Rolle, Switzerland. Terms and CO2/MPG figures based on EU regulated laboratory testing, and may not represent real-life driving results (which vary depending on driving behaviour, conditions and other factors). conditions apply. Finance subject to status. All vehicles advertised available at time of going to press. *Model shown is an Infiniti 1.6 SE FWD OTR price £20,550. exclude optional glassdriving roof atresults £500, (which metallicvary paint at £670 and 19” alloy wheels atconditions £700.

CO2/MPG figures based on Q30 EU regulated laboratory testing, andPrices may not represent real-life depending on driving behaviour, and other factors). *Model shown is an Infiniti Q30 1.6 SE FWD OTR price £20,550. Prices exclude optional glass roof at £500, metallic paint at £670 and 19” alloy wheels at £700.

DREAMY DRIVES

Back to the future?

BMW’s space-age i8 doesn’t look planetfriendly but in fact it’s a hero in a hybrid when it comes to the green driving - with a £100k price tag

Being such an aspirational purchase for me at the time, I remember buying my first BMW like it was yesterday. We take the brand for granted now but 20 years ago there weren’t as many around, so it felt like a real achievement to own one of these amazing cars.

Prior to buying my 320i I would normally buy a Japanese car which despite great reliability, were really dull and boring to drive. My 320i was a high mileage rep mobile, but I still remember how the car felt like new despite its age which stands as a testament to BMW’s exceptional engineering.

BMW’s stunning new i8 looks like a concept car with its very futuristic styling.

The car’s look reminds me of the BMW M1 from the front and it reminds me of the Jaguar XJ220 from the side. I am sure you will agree, neither were ugly cars.

The latest trend for most manufacturers is to have at least one hybrid model in its range. Even Ferrari, McLaren and Porsche have got in on the act with supercars fitted with both electric motors and petrol engines. As you can imagine these cars are not only amazing to drive and filled with technology they are also well and truly out of the range of most people.

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I wouldn’t class the i8 as a cheap car but compared to the cars mentioned above, it’s a relative bargain at £100k - plus you can receive a £5k rebate from the government.

The i8 is fitted with a three-cylinder 1.5lt engine and two electric motors. It’s a combination of power which gets the car storming to 62mph in 4.4 secs, and a top speed of 155mph.

Believe it or not, the same engine is also fitted to the MINI - but thankfully in the i8 it has been supercharged to produce 231bhp. The motors and engine combined produce 357bhp with the engine driving the rear wheels and the electric motors driving the front wheels.

This explains the cars exceptional road holding and fantastic grip levels. Throw in exceptional feedback from the steering wheel and bring on those country roads.

The engineers have also used some amazing sound technology to make the engine sound really sporty – more like a rasping V6 than a 3 cylinder engine.

On electric power alone it is possible to drive the car for up to 22 miles.

While I had the car I never needed to charge the batteries; all I had to do was to put the car into sport mode and all of the clever technology charged the

batteries while I was driving.

I managed to achieve 35mpg but this was way off the headline grabbing figure of 135mpg. The car only emits 49g/km which makes this car congestion charge exempt in London, making it a very good car for businesses as its benefit in kind makes it much cheaper to run than equivalent sports cars.

As BMWs have always been advertised as being the ultimate driving machine, they have gone to great lengths to make sure the body is very light. They have also gone to extreme lengths to make sure the car has perfect 50/50 weight distribution, with the use of carbon and light composite plastics helping achieve this in the cockpit, and aluminium has been used to save weight elsewhere.

or too heavy to make it viable.

Once inside, the interior is very BMW with the dash angled towards the driver and the speedo and rev counter looking very funky indeed. A static screen allows you to see how economically you’re driving along with information about which motors are being used and so on. The screen also works the SatNav and entertainment features via the iDrive system.

Vision from the rear window is really limited and the rear sensors will need to be used quite a lot. One area where this car is let down is its lack of boot space. The rear boot is only capable of taking a couple of soft travel bags. I would personally use the rear seats to hold luggage as they are too small to sit in and access to the rear is quite difficult.

While I had the car I never needed to charge the batteries; all I had to do was to put the car into sport mode and all of the clever technology charged the batteries while I was driving The scissor doors do look amazing but entry and exit from the car is quite awkward as the sills are quite high. Once you finally manage to get into the car you need to reach up to close the door. A self-closing door would have been a nice touch but I can only imagine it was either too expensive

After driving this amazing looking futuristic car, I can safely say the future is bright especially with the use of this technology and when it’s combined with a petrol engine.

Courtesy of Lloyd BMW.

SEP/OCT16

BEING GREEN HAS NEVER BEEN MORE FUN AT LLOYD NEWCASTLE. Car pollutants cause immediate and long-term effects to the environment by contributing heavily towards poor air quality, climate change and noise disturbance. If you’re considering making the switch to electric driving, the BMW i3 could be the answer.

THE ECO-FRIENDLY ELECTRIC CAR.

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SUSTAINABILITY AT ITS CORE.

The BMW i3 is the world’s first series-production model designed with sustainability in mind, from development to everyday use. To date, it has won a number of awards, including the Auto Express Green Car of the Year award in 2014 and 2015.

As an all-electric vehicle, the BMW i3 simply glides along, near-silently. Leading the way in both substance and style, this dynamic, compact vehicle boasts efficient technology, excellent manoeuvrability and a futuristic appeal. The benefits are not only environmental. The potential to benefit financially by using electric power rather than petrol or diesel is significant, and can result in savings on road tax and every day running costs.

BMW RETAILER OF THE YEAR 2015.

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The BMW i3 with improved battery technology has an increased range of up to 125 miles on a single charge. When fitted with the optional BMW i3 Range Extender you can go even further – up to 206 miles.

The BMW i3 puts you out in front in every way.

Contact Lloyd Newcastle on 0191 261 7366 to book a test drive*.

Official fuel economy figures for the BMW i3: mpg N/A, CO2 emissions 0g/km, nominal power output (electric motor) 75/102kW/hp at 4,800rpm; peak power output (electric motor) 125/170kW/hp, total average energy consumption per 62 miles/100km (combined cycle) 12.6kWh (13.1kWh with 20” wheels). Total range: 195 miles (187 miles with 20” wheels) (combined cycle). Customer orientated range: up to 125 miles. Official fuel economy figures for the BMW i3 with Range Extender: 470.8mpg (0.6ltr/100km), CO2 emissions 12g/km (13g/km with 20” wheels), total average energy consumption per 62 miles/100km (weighted combined cycle) 11.3kWh (11.9kWh with 20” wheels). Range without use of Range Extender: 150 miles (144 miles with 20” wheels) (weighted combined cycle). Customer orientated total range (using Range Extender): up to 206 miles. Figures are based on provisional data and may be subject to change. Figures may vary depending on different factors including but not limited to individual driving style, climatic conditions, route characteristics and preconditioning. The BMW i3 is an electric vehicle that requires mains electricity for charging. *Test drive subject to applicant status and availability

LUXE LIFE

ROB PUGHE Rob Pughe is one half of Saunders&Pughe jewellers based in Corbridge which he runs with his wife Marianne Saunders.

After a Royal Navy career Rob re-trained as a jewellery designer, winning a competition to design and manufacture a piece of jewellery for the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC). The jewellery was a brooch titled ‘All the world’s a stage’.

In 2000 he and Marianne opened their first jewellery shop on Hill Street, Corbridge. At that time it was a small shop with workshop upstairs, now 16 years later the shop has undergone two extensions with the addition of a purpose built workshop on ground floor and they employ five staff.

Rob’s daily job is mainly occupied with making special pieces of jewellery commissioned by customers.

LUXE PLACES >> For a weekend > Born and bred in Wales, I always love the opportunity to visit my

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family and enjoy the beautiful countryside of Snowdonia National Park. Alfie, our whippet loves running along Aberdovey beach.

A long holiday > probably one of the best trips I’ve been on was to Tuscon, Arizona in early February. Tuscon becomes the largest coloured gem trading centre in the world, For gemstone lovers it is truly amazing. We helicoptered over the Grand Canyon, cycled up Mount Lemmon and explored Sedona and the Sonoran desert.

A Treat > you can’t beat heading over to Blanchland and going for a long walk over the moor followed by Sunday lunch at the Lord Crew Arms.

LUXE RELAX >> Best food > for my 40th I was lucky enough to eat at Heston Blumenthal’s The Fat Duck in Bray, 10 courses of sheer magic and mastery. I’d love to go back one day.

Best wine > my favourite wine has to be German Riesling. Germany produce

stunning world class wine. A particular favourite is from a vineyard called St.Urbans-Hof: Ockfener Bockstein Riesling Auslese.

Favourite restaurant > we always have a great night at Il Piccolo, Corbridge.

Perfect weekend > road cycling plays a big part of my life, travelling over to Brugge, Belgium earlier this year to take part in one of the greatest Spring classic rides called the Ronde Van Vlaanderen was fantastic. It’s 120 miles of hard riding over cobbled roads and famous ‘bergs’ all washed down with some great Belgium beer, frites and mayonnaise.

Downtime means > sitting back listening to music on Vinyl whilst flicking through cycling magazines with a glass of chilled white wine.

Best telly > I must confess I’m a big Game of Thrones fan, I can’t wait for next season.

Watching Harvey Specter in Suits is right up there too.

LUXE SHOP >> Favourite shop > I had a great shopping experience in Leeds. I like shops who take pride in what they sell with knowledgable

sales staff. I really enjoyed Paul Smith.

Best Buy > my home here in Northumberland. I wouldn’t swap it for anything. I love the open countryside together with a great mix of friends I’ve met mainly through cycling.

LUXE PARTY >> A memorable night out > whilst on a family holiday in Ibiza we stumbled across a wonderful venue called Las Dalias in San Carlos. It turned out to be a great night of live World Music called Namaste, celebrating the bohemian lifestyle of ibiza.

Perfect Party > Having enjoyed the Olympic track cycling so much this year I think getting invited to the after games party at Rio would be pretty cool.

Best suit > Paul Smith ‘Prince of Wales check’ Dinner date > what can I say, it’s got to be my beautiful wife Marianne.

YOUR LUXE THINGS IN LIFE >> I’ve just completed building up a vintage Colnago ‘Super’ road bike from 1979, it’s a design icon and a thing of beauty. I can’t wait to ride it next year in Italy.

SEP/OCT16

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SHINE ON

TREND WATCH with Chris Stocks, Pol Kefton Premium Design Your home in a new light Concrete in interior design has been around for a while now. Kitchen worktops, raw architectural beams and polished concrete floors are an essential to the rough luxe/industrial look, but designers have more recently been experimenting with this material for smaller items too.

Lighting is one of the most overlooked and yet most important elements of good interior design. After all, there is little point in creating luxury environments if they cannot then be appreciated properly with sufficient lighting.

Lighting is an essential in terms of creating the mood and ambience of a space, so getting it right is vital. Light is a powerful tool, and as an element of design it must be carefully planned to suit the space it is illuminating.

In a living space light can perceive the size of the room so the placement and type of light are both carefully considered aspects of interior design. Lighting design works in conjunction with colour, room size, availability of natural light and furniture.

If perfect lighting is achieved all these elements work together and transform a room creating a faultless ambience.

The inclusion of a different scheme within one space can alone change the perceived use of a space; think functional working space by day, comforting and relaxing social area by night. Dimming control and using switching/zoning when designing will allow a number of different lighting scenarios and the space can become extremely versatile.

Popular material trends used in lighting design are raw metals, however, they appear more subtly than before and make an extremely effective statement.

With the new, comes the old, and a return of the Edison lamp in our design culture, bringing a ‘Retro’ style feature, yet still having a strong element of an LED aesthetic!

Light is a powerful tool, and as an element of design it must be carefully planned to suit the space it is illuminating

The Aplomb ceiling pendant is available in natural grey, warm brown and white, as shown above. They work equally well as single, statement lights, arranged in rows above kitchen islands, or hung in clusters and groups.

Tom Dixon - Mr Metallic himself, always has a nod to metals.The Etch Tom Dixon shade is inspired by the logic of pure mathematics.

This pendant light has a detailed pattern which casts beautiful shadows when lit. Use as a single pendant or combine with others, above a dining table for example.

Fulcrum is a sculptural and monolithic candlestick whose cylindrical stem appears to balance on a central sphere. The design of the Fulcrum Candlestick Large is a play on the concept of pivots and supports.

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

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This beautiful Handmade Luxury Lighting is available in burnished brass, using traditional methods - without use of any chemical products, the Henge Ring Designer Lighting is also in veneered metal. Not just a conventional showroom but a space considered for the world of interior design in order to display Henge’s most significant selection of furniture.

Lee Broom founded his company five years ago, and has since gone on to become one of the UK’s leading product designers. The Lee Broom Square Decanterlight, made from a lead hand cut crystal drinks decanter, is designed to glow in clusters creating a majestic and sensual centerpiece wherever they hang.

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

The Lee Broom Crystal Bulb Chandelier features five Crystal Bulbs and creates a dramatic cluster that is simple to install.

Arcade Studio Unit 16/17 Sanderson Arcade, Morpeth, Ne61 1Ns Telephone: 01670 503869

SEP/OCT16

LUXURIOUS HAND-CRAFTED KITCHENS designed with you in mind.

TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OAKSTONE DESIGNS PLEASE VISIT,

www.oakstonedesigns.co.uk Follow us on Pinterest and Instagram @OakstoneDesigns

WONDER WALLS in association with

www.greatlook.co.uk

Queen of the

Castle Interior designer Melanie Brown doesn’t do things by halves. Her latest project to restore a Scottish castle proved to be the ultimate in antique up-scaling

In terms of interiors, it’s fair to stay ‘baronial’ is having a moment. Plummy plaids and stags’ heads have invaded hotel and showhome, leading to full-scale antler overload. Seems we all want our home to be a castle.

So what happens when you’re given free-reign with a real castle? Forget faux and gaudy gimmicks, this is where a designer’s dreams really can come true.

Interior Designer Melanie Brown, owner of North East-based Design Direction is no stranger to a chunky project. She is the go-to for people who want their homes to look individual, stylish and expensive - a service delivered with much discretion along the way.

She designs for an exclusive clientele: private individuals, hotels and property developers and has an enviable ‘little black book’ of artisans and craftspeople.

She is a whizz at finding those certain ‘somethings’ that take a property from showhome pristine to lusciously glamorous or urban and eclectic.

So the prospect of reviving a 14th Century castle near Edinburgh was a challenge that made her fizz with enthusiasm – and invest in some very warm clothing.

Borthwick Castle is known as the finest keep in Scotland but when Melanie met the place it was functioning as a weary B&B, nowhere near living up to its illustrious potential.

She was charged with bringing it back to life and in doing so created ten magnificent bedrooms as well as reinstating imposing yet intimate dining and drawing rooms, historic corridors, halls and staircases.

Today it is re-invented as a unique luxury destination, restored to its medieval grandeur and given five star 21st Century comfort following the 18-month interior design project.

Melanie definitely thinks of it as ‘her castle’.

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“I was named the ‘queen of the castle’ by some of the locals and it definitely feels like my castle”, laughs Melanie.

“I lived the place for months and months, even now it’s hard not to come across an antique or something and not think ‘that would work here or there in the castle’.

“If you get involved in such a huge project then you really get to care about it. Every day was a challenge of logistics, often you’d be dealing with 75 people on site or be trying to get work done in a room when the roofers were still going up the spiral staircases!”

When it came to creating a look for the castle, fabulous basics such as the vast stone walls were there and Melanie was keen to work with those grand, authentic features.

“It was about whispering the hues of Scotland not shouting them: the hues of soft plaid and leather, gentle animal and countryside references – and indeed a lavish, beautiful antique deer head!

“It was antique up-scaling on a massive level.

I felt it was important to show as much original unpainted stone work in as many areas as possible. I sourced the tapestries and hemp which lines the walls from many places”, she says.

Sumptuous colours and textures create a romantic, Bohemian theme throughout, with printed velvets, sensual chenilles, informal weaves and soft Scottish wools and Harris tweeds creating a sensual atmosphere, alongside hand-carved furniture, oil paintings created especially for this project, and numerous minute historic details.

Attention to detail was everything, as was the use of the ultimate fabrics and materials.

Melanie was desperate to link the castle’s wonderous history to its interiors.

Melanie’s brief was to restore the castle to the historic grandeur which once attracted the likes of Mary Queen of Scots and the great Scottish poet and author Sir Walter Scott, creating a luxury destination to

SEP/OCT16

LED sensor touch mirrors 4 sizes from

£99

compete with the best in the world.

Melanie originally studied television and theatre set design at university so this project really appealed to the skills gained there.

Her hands-on approach included a design for a gin bar and whisky bar in the Stateroom which was hand carved by artisans to echo the history of the castle via countryside motifs.

“I spent six months sourcing 150 Scottish regimental buttons, which were then passed to the artisan furniture makers at George Smith to include in a pair of deep-buttoned purple Mulberry velvet-covered loving seats for the State Room. That was a mission in itself ”, she admits.

And when it came to paintwork; “I carried pieces of stone around in my handbag for many months before finding a paint maker able to mix a shade to match it. In the event, Dulux Paint came up with the perfect paint pallete, mixing a shade to tone with the stone, which contains numerous shades of sand and pale pink, depending on where it came from local quarries”.

The logistics of moving furniture and fittings into a 15th Century castle with only spiral >>

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SEP/OCT16

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WONDER WALLS in association with

www.greatlook.co.uk

staircases were extremely difficult. Furniture had to be hoisted in through a balcony window to the State Room, most of it in pieces to be re-assembled on site. The hand-carved wrought-iron chandelier in the Great Hall, for example, carved with Tudor motifs of flowers, wildlife, acorns, deer and twisted vines, arrived in 40 large boxes.

And Mary Queen of Scots’ bed was a jigsaw

Crests from historic figures directly associated with the castle are embroidered into the Mulberry velvetupholstered dressing table chairs in each bedroom, including the crest of Mary Queen of Scots

puzzle of 18 pieces.

That is in Melanie’s favourite room in the castle, the famous bedchamber where Mary Queen of Scots stayed several times and her last bedroom before her imprisonment.

“It is exquisitely decorated with a royal canopy and a hand-carved oak bed inspired

by Mary’s bed at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh. The Red Room at the castle features a specially designed baronial Tudor bed carved with the tree of life and associated motifs, while the Earl of Bothwell bedchamber features a full four poster king-size bed carved from solid oak and inspired by the bed of Mary’s son, King James VI of Scotland and I of England, slept in when he was crowned King of England.”

Exhaustive historical research inspired the individual ambience of each of the bedrooms, the castle’s Great Hall, State Room, Garrison and numerous hidden passages, halls and stairwells.

Crests from historic figures directly associated with the castle are embroidered into the Mulberry velvet-upholstered dressing table chairs in each bedroom, including the crests of Mary Queen of Scots, Lord Bothwell, and Oliver Cromwell. The colourways used throughout are inspired by popular colours in Tudor times, including ochre and bronze, lime, sage and emerald green, purple and red. In the State Room you see a handcarved crest above the door of each bedroom, inspired by the crest of the person for which the room is named, such as Mary Queen of Scots and Lord Bothwell.

The remnants of 15th Century frescoes remain in the Great Hall, where Melanie installed

Designer know-how

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hidden lighting to highlight them.

The castle has a real place in Melanie’s heart after sharing two years of her life – including some spooky nights when she stayed there alone during the restoration.

“It needed to feel right, not all polishy and new, a little mismatched here and there. I want people to feel like they are living in it – that these are the velvets that would have been there in Mary’s time, so a whole stay is like an intimate experience.”

Melanie travelled the world to source furniture, wall coverings, and artefacts in keeping with the castle’s long history, including antique hemp discovered at Maison&Objet in Paris, which was hand-dyed especially for this project.

Fabrics for soft furnishings, furniture and wall coverings were been sourced in partnership with Mulberry, Sanderson and Zoffany.

The bedrooms’ antique mirror frames were used with state-of-the-art touch-lighting systems to allow five star contemporary

functionality with antique fittings.

Furniture and decorative tailoring was in partnership with George Smith, whose founder, the early 19th Century furniture maker, remains a strong influence in the way the company’s craftsmen make and design its furniture with the best possible materials, hand-built using traditional methods passed down through the generations.

Many of the items were sourced in Edinburgh, including cushions by an artisan maker McKinely & Moth, occasional dining

chairs from Georgian Antiques, rugs by Calzeat of Scotland and Harris Tweed on some special furniture pieces in the castle in herringbone made from 100% virgin wool spun, dyed and hand woven in the Outer Hebrides.

Beautiful faux flowers throughout from Holland were sourced and arranged by artisan florists at Secret Garden, Newcastle-upon-Tyne. www.designdirection.co.uk www.borthwickcastle.com

SEP/OCT16

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Since 1931, our family business (founded in 1888) has supplied Aga Cookers in homes throughout the North East of England and we also supply 14 different brands of high quality Range Cookers.

Our magnificent Showroom has more than 40 Aga and Range Cookers on display, including collections from Lacanche, Falcon, Mercury, Britannia and Rangemaster.

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SEP/OCT16

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LUXE LIFE

DIARMUID GAVIN Diarmuid Gavin is a familiar face on TV screens as the go-to garden makeover man.

He’s just been commissioned by the National Trust to create a contemporary garden on the Gibside estate.

Diarmuid studied amenity horticulture at the National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin in Dublin and immediately afterwards established his own garden design business.

For eight years his main programme, Homefront, was broadcast by the BBC. He has also been presenter and garden designer on other programmes such as I Want a Garden, and Planet Patio.

He is an ambassador for Prince Charles, promoting the Princes Foundation for Building Community throughout the UK and has been a member of the jury of the Stirling Prize, the UK’s foremost architectural awards.

He is married to Justine and has a daughter Eppie and lives in Co. Wicklow.

LUXE PEOPLE >> Justine and Eppie (wife and daughter) LUXE PLACES >> For a weekend > Bath A long holiday > Venice Beach, LA, California As a treat > Chocolate LUXE RELAX >> Best food > Magnum raspberry ice cream Best wine > Guinness Best restaurant > The Cow, Westbourne Grove, London Perfect weekend > Movie, walking with the dog in the dunes by the sea, dinner with friends Downtime means > Gardening at home Best telly > Curb Your Enthusiasm/Gogglebox Best book > The Bodhran Maker, John B Keane Best sounds > Christine and the Queens ‘Tilted’ LUXE SHOP >> Best shopping city > Newcastle Favourite shop > The Conran Shop Luxe retail treat > Any Apple product Best buy > DKNY Leather biker jacket LUXE PARTY >> A memorable night out > Harrods, May 2004 (Mohamed Al Fayed threw me a party... but I can’t remember it) Perfect party > Finished by 10pm, cup of mint tea and sleep Best outfit > Leather biker jacket Dinner date > 25.12.16 YOUR LUXE THINGS IN LIFE >> Travel

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SEP/OCT16

Staircases I Flooring I Doors

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Every Wood Idea project is a combination of decades of experience, innovation, passion and traditional British craftsmanship.

Whether it is flooring, doors or stairs, our knowledge of timber is equalled only by our passion for customer satisfaction. If your stair is looking tired, your doors dated or your floors needing a modern touch then talk to us about your own Wood Idea.

Unit 4, Blaydon Trade Park, Toll Bridge Road, Blaydon, Tyne & Wear. NE21 5TR

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DOGGY DIARIES

POSH POOCHES with Alfie, helped by Elysia Agnew

Doggy do this diary:

Alfies Adventures: We’ve all enjoyed some sunny summer days and with it, Alfie has enjoyed several trips to our beautiful coast – from Saltburn to Bamburgh or a big swim in Runswick Bay – he loves chasing the waves and the feel of sand in his paws! Alfie’s been mixing with the stars this time round as we catch up with Noodle the Daschund, a social media addict who has been teaching us how to take the perfect selfie.

Alfie, your Luxe Pooch x

Alfie loves:

From tasty treat boxes to doggy photographs and pop art for your wall, your four-legged friend will feel like top dog in their own home

Luxe Pooch Q&A

>> THIS… For Pawsome pups who deserve a treat Tailored treat boxes that promise to bring your dog happiness every month. Pawsome boxes are packed with premium treats, toys, games, goodies, accessories and training aids. You’ll never have to worry about adding puppy treats to your shopping trolley again. Of course you’ll end up with one spoilt hound. www.pawsomebox.co.uk

>> CANINE CAFÉ…

With the launch of Teesside’s first dedicated dog café, you really can take your pooch for an ice cream.

Wags & Whiskers in Finkle Street, Stockton, has a doggy menu packed with canine friendly ‘wuffins’, hotpots, iced treats and even beer.

If you’re dining out this autumn, it looks like your pooch is too. www.facebook.com/wagscaninecafe

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>> TAKE YOUR POOCH FOR A PINT… There’s no need to worry about leaving your dog indoors while you pop out for a pint.

City Tavern on Northumberland Road, Newcastle has created a dog-friendly menu for its four-legged clients. Doggy diners can choose from a selection of treats and biscuits flavoured with everything from venison and vegetable, to salmon and country game. And why not wash the meal down with a pint of Belgian Snuffles Dog Beer, non-alcoholic ale made from beef and chicken. For the city dogs, dinner is served…

Our Luxe Pooch is an Internet sensation; Noodle the Dachshund. Noodle’s dreamy puppy eyes have captivated more than 26k followers on Instagram. Noodle is living it up in the big city with her human. You might find her strutting down the King’s Road in Chelsea or playing in Hyde Park after a Saturday brunch. This city-girl is a fun loving, face-licking social media addict whose snaps promise to brighten up your day.

Follow her Noodle-y adventures on @noodlethedachshund.

LUXE WALKS >> My favourite place to take a walk is on the wild side in Richmond Park, sniffing out the squirrels!

PUPPY PAMPER >> I get my nails done every now and then; otherwise I’m an au naturel sausage! #TooGlamToGiveADamn

POOCH’S PERFECT DAY OUT >> My idea of a good holiday is truffle hunting in Toulouse. Failing that, if the is weather is bad, nothing beats chasing a sausage in Frankfurt!

DOG’S BEST FRIEND >> The camera is my best friend!

DOGGY DOWNTIME >> Downtime is for losers - I’m an uptime girl!

HOUND HABBITS >> I’m a bit of a narcissist and addicted to Instagram selfies!

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FONDEST DOGGY MEMORY >> When Mark Wright from The Only Way is Essex gave me a kiss! #Swoon PUPPY A-LISTER. WHO WOULD YOUR POOCH BE IF THEY WERE A CELEBRITY? >> My celebrity double would be Pippa Middleton. We’re both brunette, look good from behind and have a great pedigree!

>> & THAT… Frame that fetching face Take your perfect pooch and paint them on your wall. The Art of Gifting can turn photographs of your pup into beautifully illustrated artworks for your home. The geo-pop techniques and vibrant colours will brighten up any room. What’s more, you’ll have your pretty pooch looking down on you all year round. A unique way to showcase your furry friend. www.artofgifting.com.au

SEP/OCT16

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LUXE LOCAL

Staithes

One of those North Yorkshire places to lust after for a blissful weekend getaway. Winter and this craggy coastal village is windswept and atmospheric whilst summer brings buckets, spades and even giant lobsters into play. Always a magnet for artists, it has an easy, creative vibe and a popular arts festival. Foodies will love the lobsterman’s catch – and the scent of kippers on the breeze

PROPERTIES >> It’s got to be a fisherman’s cottage. They cling to the steep lane running from cliff to seashore at the entrance of the village then cluster together so every space matters.

Cottages here are coveted and come in all shapes and sizes. They are characterful, charming, sometimes neglected and careworn. Evidence of a place on the up are the discarded half-used tins of Farrow and Ball paint on the doorsteps of doer-uppers.

It’s a popular village but not as pricey as nearby Whitby or super-chic Sandsend so you can club together with mates and buy a ‘project’.

CONNECTED >> Not bad. Easyish access as long as it’s not snowy on the moorlands. Staithes is

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deceptively near to the Tees Valley so you could even do a commute if you live there.

It’s only about half an hour from Middlesbrough on a good day. Car is your easiest and best form or transport – or a boat of course. The village itself is very transport un-friendly and you park up at the top mostly then walk down. The seclusion is the very reason you’d want to live there.

CULTURE >> Staithes has a strong attraction for artists with an annual art and heritage festival, galleries and artists’ studios. It was once the home of the ‘Staithes Group’ of painters and has art courses and workshops regularly on offer. There’s a free ‘Illusion Trail’ which guides visitors around the network of ‘ginnels’ or alleyways.

On the weekend of 10/11 September, the

historic fishing village of Staithes throws open the doors of its quaint and quirky cottages to welcome visitors to its fifth annual Festival of Arts and Heritage. Over 100 artists exhibit their paintings, prints, sculpture, jewellery, glass and crafts for sale in pop-up galleries all around the village. www.staithesfestival.com SHOP >> This is a great place to buy art – we love Staithes Gallery. It’s a showcase for the very best contemporary artwork inspired by Staithes and the surrounding area.

Exhibitions reflect the quality and variety of art inspired by the village. It is also home to Staithes Art School offering painting breaks with experienced tutors for anyone wishing to learn, improve or just have a go. www.staithesgallery.co.uk Staithes Studio Gallery is another place to

find contemporary works – from painting to ceramics and jewellery.

EAT >> For the festival weekend, you’ll find food and drink to suit every palate in pop-up tearooms, cafes and restaurants throughout the village. There are two pubs in the old part of the village, The Cod and Lobster on the Harbour front, serves decent fish dishes.

Cleveland Corner is a cosy bistro where the owners make the most of local produce – particularly fish. Buy the freshest kippers at Staithes Smokehouse at the top of the village near the car park.

And there’s always time for tea and fine cakes at Dotty’s Vintage Tearoom.

STROLL >> Walkers take the Cleveland Way through the village and along the cliffs to Old Nab – stop off for tasty cakes at The Ship Inn at Port Mulgrave (also a nice B&B).

Fossil hunters, geologists, rockpool enthusiasts and expert surfers will also love to do their stuff at what has become known as ‘The Dinosaur Coast’.

Staithes maritime heritage includes an early chapter in the life of explorer James Cook.

It is still home to an RNLI lifeboat station and a small fleet of cobles (fishing boats) landing fish, crab and lobster with boat trips for bird watching, fishing and even whale watching available.

Staithes is the perfect base from which to explore all this or simply to enjoy the unique, photogenic atmosphere of England’s ‘most painted village’.

SEP/OCT16

LUXE LOCAL

PROPERTY WATCH

my local AL MILNES, STAITHES GALLERY Three good things about living here >> The village and its location: I could never tire of arriving in Staithes – either driving onto the cobbled streets or walking along the old Stubble Path down from the car park. The first glimpse of the sea behind the huddle of rooftops; fishing boats bobbing in the harbour; maybe a surfer or two riding the waves; that sense of having gone back in time, it’s pure magic!

The people: Old fishing families who can trace their Staithes ancestry back for generations; enthusiastic incomers looking to ‘live the dream’ with new homes and businesses, second home owners who love the village and invest their time, energy and skills; and the holidaymakers full of wonder at the beauty of it all. These people make for a lively community and a perfect balance of stability and change.

The creativity: Staithes has always attracted creative people and inspired creativity in those that come here. Artists, photographers, writers, musicians and film-makers, as well as those who enjoy the work they do, always get a warm welcome in Staithes.

Three places you take visitors >> For a walk. Staithes is on one of the most spectacular stretches of the Cleveland Way. You can walk any distance in either direction and enjoy cliff top views out to sea, wonderful beaches, and the fascinating remnants of historical industries: mining and alum production, still visible on the land.

For a pint. The Cod and Lobster has a fabulous location right on the harbour. The locals tend to gather in the Royal George and put the world to rights. You’ll end up singing and dancing to live music in the Captain Cook after a pint of one their celebrated Real Ales. And don’t forget the Fox and Hounds over the brow of the hill in Dalehouse: sunny garden in summer, roaring fires in winter and the best value in Yorkshire!

For a browse in Dotty’s. Dotty About Vintage is chock-full of ephemera. I love taking visitors there because there’s always something that sparks a story or an anecdote, and always something that someone has always wanted.

An ‘in the know’ secret >> Port Mulgrave: At low tide you can walk around to it on the wave-cut platform, stopping to gaze in the rock pools and pick up fossils and pieces of jet. If the tide’s in you can walk along the cliff path. Either way, it’s a must! Now only a crumbling jetty bears witness to its former life as a busy port serving the iron industry. There’s a scattering of fishermen’s huts, lobster pots and old fishing boats, and always a few lads and dads and dogs tinkering about. You can take a picnic or, even better, scramble up the steep path to the village and the Ship Inn - fabulous licensed tearoom – for a little of what you fancy.

property: three to choose Kipper’s Corner An end-terrace fisherman’s cottage close to the harbour with bright, fun interiors, a woodburner to calm the cold and virtually on the harbourside. Perfect for those salty seadog moments.

Rent £69pn www.ownersdirect.co.uk

Cliff-top sea-views If big views are what you’re after then this detached cottage at Boulby makes for the perfect morning coffee vista. Gardens and room views look towards the cliffs at Staithes and you can ramble the cliff-tops for the ultimate fresh air kick.

£359,950 www.jacksonspropertyservice.com

WITH DUNCAN YOUNG

WELL THAT WAS A SURPRISE! Reflecting on my earlier article in the year, about Brexit, it was quite a shock to wake up to the news that we were most definitely coming out of Europe.

It amazes me now that the country has become so split in its decision, and whilst the majority has clearly won the day, we have created, undoubtedly, a significant storm for the future.

However, like most things in Great Britain, we tend to accept the facts and move on to another day.

There is no doubt that the impact of Brexit will take a long time to understand and accordingly the housing market has been surprisingly subdued.

In May we saw significant reductions from house buyers and demand and in June, the month of the result, enquiries continued to be below normal and certainly less than last year. Not as bad as May and therefore, a sign of resilience.

In July the trading position of most estate agents was similar to that in 2015, and we therefore saw business returning to more of an equilibrium and normality.

In August most of my colleagues are reporting increased levels of activity and greater levels of sales. I was particularly encouraged in my own company to witness a magnificent launch of our development at Beadnell Point, in the lovely coastal village of Beadnell, where we are helping Lindisfarne Homes sell 40 coastal properties.

In the first phase launch of 21 properties, we only had one left after the launch weekend and I was delighted that so many people were confident to place their money into property and a second home, despite Brexit.

The confidence levels in mid-August are unusually high; it seems many people have made the decision to move on with their lives and move on to their next property. This has led to an immediate increase in viewings, valuations, offers and sales being agreed - very good news indeed.

British people tend to be terribly resilient and are known for their keenness to work through a problem, and even when the problem is not fully known in its size and diagnosis, we will work with our partners to achieve a certain satisfactory and sensible way forward.

Writing this article during the Olympics it looks like we could reach very close, if not exceed, the number of medals we achieved in London in 2012. This is a magnificent achievement for Team GB and a great way of proving that we are bringing the word ‘Great’ back to Britain.

Buying British, investing in Britain, trading with Britain, can all be considered positive and very exciting opportunities for the future. I am sure once the politicians have worked out the manner in which we leave Europe in the future, we will make it work in a proactive and positive manner.

Life goes on and, certainly, after the wobble of the vote we are now trading in the housing market beyond the level of last year, and I hope that this confidence continues throughout the whole of 2016.

Residential property in the North East of England still represents superb value for money, and whilst we haven’t seen the spikes, peaks and troughs of the London market and the Home Counties, we are currently receiving high levels of enquiries for beautiful holiday homes, fabulous suburban semi-detached and family houses, and an increasing interest in development of new homes throughout the region, with many exciting and fantastic sites yet to come to the market.

We very much look forward to working with our clients past, current and future to establish a stronger housing market over the next 12 months.

Seeing Red Red House in Staithes is a nicely finished property with a contemporary style that would make it very easy to relax into on a Friday night. Sea views and the proximity to the harbourside a real bonus too.

£295,000 www.pattinson.co.uk

SEP/OCT16

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

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SELLING THE REGION’S FINEST HOMES

LEA GRANGE RIDING MIL

PRICE GUIDE: £1.35 MILLION

Lea Grange is a beautiful country house in a stunning semi-rural location towards the edge of Riding Mill, and provides well-proportioned five bedroom accommodation set in a mature garden site with paddock, extending to approximately 3 acres. The fabulous family home has been well maintained throughout and has retained many original features including period fireplaces, panel doors, shutters, moulded ceiling and ceiling coving, and original oak floors.

Vestibule | Reception hallway with original oak flooring | Elegant drawing room with deep bay with window seat/shutters | Morning room | Family room with impressive inglenook with wood burner | Formal dining room | Spacious conservatory with doors to garden | Kitchen/breakfast room with maple wood cabinets and AGA | Utility/boot room | Boiler room | Ground floor shower room/cloakroom | Five double bedrooms, master with en-suite dressing room and bathroom | Family bathroom | Shower room | WC | Detached coach house providing two garages and loft/hobbies room | EPC: F

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

SOUTHFIELD HOUSE FARM SPRING LANE, SEDGEFIELD

PRICE GUIDE: £1.1 MILLION

Southfield House Farm is a fabulous 18th Century farmhouse extensively refurbished with high quality interior design and finishes as well as built-in audio sound systems and lovely oak wood flooring. The private grounds extend to circa 2 acres with open lawns, attractive borders, a small paddock, two detached barns with loose boxes, tack room and storage, and a small field; there is also a separate independent grazing field of 15.25 acres at £1500 per annum.

Reception hall | Elegant dining room with beamed ceiling and period fireplace | Sitting room with beamed ceiling and multi fuel burning stove | Very well-appointed kitchen/breakfast room with cream cabinets, black granite worktops, AGA and linking through to a magnificent family sitting room and dining room with doors to south-facing patio terrace | Rear entrance hall | Cloakroom/wc | Snooker and games room | Shower room/wc | Utility/laundry room | General storage room | Boiler room | Five double bedrooms, two with en-suite bathrooms | Family bathroom | EPC: D

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

4 AYKLEY COURT, DURHAM CITY

£799,000

Aykley Court is a five bedroom detached family home on a generous plot close to the centre of Durham City. The property has been extended and extensively refurbished to create a stylish interior that’s both spacious and practical.

STATION HOUSE, BRANCEPETH, DURHAM

Contact: 0191 384 2277

£775,000

The Station House is a destination family home of scale and space with the flexibility to be up to a five-bedroom home which also has a large, attractive garden that’s perfect for relaxing and enjoying the countryside views.

BILLY HILL HOUSE, STANLEY CROOK

Contact: 0191 384 2277

£675,000

Billy Hill House is a grand and imposing period residence set in its own grounds and with spectacular, panoramic views of the stunning Weardale countryside it overlooks from its elevated position.

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 OLD BARN, CHURCH STREET, BISHOP MIDDLEHAM

£665,000

Converted and extended to a high quality four-bedroom property, the spacious internal layout means there are enough rooms whose function can be adapted to an individual family’s needs.

WEST WOOD, BRANCEPETH, DURHAM

Offers Over £600,000

West Wood offers spacious and open plan four-bedroom accommodation that meets the needs of family life today.

There are well maintained lawns to either side and a patio which makes the most of the south facing aspect.

WOODSIDE HOUSE, HARPERLEY

Northumberland 0845 459 6000

sales@fineandcountry-lakes.co.ul

info@durhamfineandcountry.co.uk

Contact: 0191 384 2277

£795,000

Woodside House has been extended three times, it offers a superb and spacious detached family home of five bedrooms, three reception rooms and self-contained annex set in established gardens.

Lakes 01539 733 500

Contact: 0191 384 2277

Contact: 0191 384 2277

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

TABLE MATES

Catwalks, cakes and cool sounds George and Terry are too cool for school when it comes to creating ambitious, wacky popup restaurants. Gemma Ferguson-Gale discovers their heady mix of parkin and playlists

Catwalk to kitchen pretty much sums up the career of Helmsley boy, George Craig.

He’s modelled for Burberry alongside Emma Watson and performed at Glastonbury with his chart-topping band One Night Only.

Now he’s part of the foodie match-made-inheaven duo Terry and George with chef Terry Edwards. The pair have co-founded Check

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On, a pop-up restaurant company creating unique events which combine their passions of food and music. The recently launched cook book ‘Feeding Friends’ is indeed the icing on a very cool cake.

They bring their quirky blend of pop-ups mostly to Northern cities – Leeds being the nearest to the North East – as yet.

But really, the beauty of their business is that, given the call they will pop-up and do their thing anywhere. And with

fine culinary credentials.

Terry, originally from Liverpool trained under the Michelin-starred chef Paul Heathcote before joining Michel Roux Jnr at Le Gavroche and then working with chef and restaurateur Mark Hix. Terry is the man behind the recipes at their pop up food events, inspired by British ingredients and culture but taking influences from all over the world. Each dish has a cleverly cool Terry and George twist. The

menus feature quirky recipes such as George’s favourite ‘shellfish and chips’ served in a shell, a venison dish called ‘hash stag’ and a dessert of ‘egg and soldiers’ where egg shell is filled with crème brulee and mango puree and the soldiers are made of shortbread. The events have themes such as ‘Northern Invasion’ and ‘Hen party’ and ‘Stag party’ with quirkily designed menus for each.

Events go a bit like this. The Northern

SEP/OCT16

TABLE MATES Photograph © Georgie Clarke

Evie’s Yorkshire Parkin with Sea Salt Caramel >> SERVES 4

Yorkshire parkin is a cake traditionally made for Bonfire Night to celebrate Guy Fawkes.

This cake gets better (and deliciously stickier) with age, and will last for around two weeks stored in an airtight container Ingredients

Method

200g butter 250g golden syrup Juice of ½ orange 100g treacle 80g soft brown sugar 250g rolled jumbo oats 250g self-raising flour 1 tbsp ground ginger Zest of 1 large orange 1 egg 20ml milk

1. Preheat the oven to 160°C/Gas 3 and line and grease a 22cm cake tin.

2. Place the butter, golden syrup, orange juice, treacle and sugar in a pan and gently warm over a low heat until melted and smooth.

3. Mix together the oats, flour, ginger and orange zest in a large bowl and slowly add the warm treacle mixture. Stir together the egg and milk in a separate bowl, then add to the parkin mixture and mix together.

4. Carefully pour the cake mixture into the prepared tin and bake for about 1 hour, or until firm and a knife inserted in the centre of the cake comes away clean. Remove from the oven, leave in the tin for a few minutes, then turn onto a wire rack to cool completely.

5. While the cake is cooling, make the caramel.

For the Caramel 300ml double cream 90g butter 120g light muscovado sugar ½ tsp sea salt, or to taste

GEORGE: This is my Gran’s recipe and when Terry was up in Yorkshire with me she made it for us. Terry loved it so much he made it back in London, adding a Check On twist with the sea salt caramel

© Terry Edwards and George Craig Recipe taken from Feeding Friends by Terry and George published by Hodder and Stoughton (£20.00)

Table mates >> Terry, left, and George

Invasion event celebrated the music and food they had grown up with. Oasis, The Stone Roses and The La’s songs were all on the playlist while the boys served up moreish food like toad in the hole with red onion gravy and black pudding hash.

The menu for a ‘Hen Party’ with a difference might include chicken-themed dishes such as chicken dippers, spineless chicken and truffle chips. George brings atmospheric music and effortless cool to the partnership with the book featuring playlists for every menu.

Together they have cooked sell out nights in London, Leeds, Manchester, New York and Hollywood. There are plenty of nods to the North with recipes such as Evie’s Yorkshire parkin with sea salt and caramel and his

for more recipes and to find out george’s food life secrets see www.luxe-magazine.co.uk

mum’s Yorkshire pudding recipe. George says: “This (Yorkshire Parkin) is my gran’s recipe and when Terry was up in Yorkshire she made it for us. Terry loved it so much he made it back in London, adding a Check On twist with the sea salt caramel.”

The food is nostalgic and comforting and all about having a great time with friends.

They create simple and unpretentious menus but use the best ingredients to give the food the wow-factor. They’ve even come up with some delicious drinks to wash it down with, such as Yorkshire Rhubarb martini and George’s Marvellous Medicine which adds Pernod to berries for an alcoholic smoothie.

The pair met at a gig in York and George credits Terry with opening his palate to

Menus feature quirky recipes such as George’s favourite ‘shellfish and chips’ served in a shell, a venison dish called ‘hash stag’ and a dessert of ‘egg and soldiers’ SEP/OCT16

new taste sensations when they both lived in London, whilst George showed Terry the world of music. They visited countless restaurants and experimented with food in the kitchen at home, joking that one day they should make a cook book. Fast forward several years and they’ve done just that.

George describes the cook book, ‘Feeding friends’, as a “rock and roll cook book”.

Even the bright yellow colour of the book is full-on, when set against the more traditional Mary Berry style offerings.

It is a collection of over 100 recipes and their tried-and-tested music playlists to accompany them; the perfect how-to guide to throwing the perfect party.

George adds: “We were lucky enough to work with amazing illustrators who normally work on album covers. The book is really a memoir of what we’ve been doing over the last few years and we are very fortunate to be able to stay true to ourselves in what we are creating.”

George talks fondly of his childhood and living in Helmsley. “It is a great place to grow up and a great place to come back to when you want a few days out. It’s so peaceful.

“When I come home I mostly look forward to my mum’s home cooking. If we were to go out in Helmsley it would be to Gepettosa great local Italian for a meal and a few bottles of wine.”

“Yorkshire is truly my favourite place on earth and has some of the best produce in the country and obviously the best rhubarb in the world.

“London has become saturated with street food and food festivals, there is so much choice. We wanted to bring our message to somewhere new.”

As for what’s next, they are hoping to spread the ‘Feeding Friends’ love nationwide and continue to expand their pop up events in more locations outside London. There’s a definite feel of exciting times ahead.

Could they be our next TV celebrity chef dream team?

George says: “For me the biggest buzz in cooking a meal for friends or family, is seeing them enjoy themselves and eating our food. That will never get old.”

To find out more about Terry and George events and their book, visit the website: www.checkonpresents.co.uk/terryandgeorge

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WELL PRESERVED

Veg patch WITH KAREN PHILLIPS

The onset of Autumn is a time for harvesting, pickling and preserving the summer bounty for the colder months to come UPCOMING EVENTS @ WIDEHAUGH HOUSE >>

RICH PICKINGS >> Berries, Berries, Berries: Tiny jewel-like alpine strawberries, luscious raspberries and puckeringly tart gooseberries are the epitome of summer. Many will be frozen to be eaten or dealt with at quieter times of the year, often re-emerging as chutneys and jellies. A large bowl of raspberries are made into raspberry vinegar: perfect for salad dressings on goat’s cheese or simply as a cure for niggling coughs. A simple Raspberry Tart (see recipe) makes a divine ending to any summer supper.

Beetroot: Red and yellow….I can sing a rainbow! As pretty on the plate as they look in the plot – bring on the beetroot.

Potatoes: In the past I used to groan when I saw a rogue potato growing where it shouldn’t; no matter how hard you try to dig up every last one you are always left with stowaways. Now I treat them as a bonus harvest – if they really get in the way of other crops then simply pull the plants up early and enjoy a harvest of really small potatoes. Choose a dry day for harvesting maincrop potatoes: leave them to dry out on the soil for a couple of hours, then store unwashed in hessian sacks overwinter; only store perfect tubers otherwise the whole lot can turn to mush.

Pears: The combination of a wet summer coupled with no spring frosts to damage the blossom has resulted in a glut of pears.

PRETTY ROSE CUPCAKES >> WED 28 SEPT Join us for this workshop with Gold Award winning cake designer: Bernadett Szucs from ‘Dreamworld Cakes’. You will learn to decorate with butter cream, make sugar roses and leaves, and ultimately achieve the perfect finish. Depart with recipes and 6six of your own creations.

10am – 4pm. Including morning coffee/ cakes and a 2-course lunch. £95

Unlike apples, pears need to be harvested before they are fully ripe, i.e. sweet-tasting but hard, and then left to ripen in a cool place. If you fancy yourself with a waxing iron then pop little blobs of bright red wax over the ends of the stalks. Pear and Almond Tart; Pear, Walnut and Roquefort Salad; and Pear Schnapps will all appear on the table this autumn.

Perilla: I’ve wanted to grow this Japanese herb, ‘shiso’, for ages since the frilly, purple leaves look so decorative lining the veg beds. Grated radish and chopped perilla leaves are used as garnish for beef steaks; hence its other name of ‘beefsteak plant’.

Its ability to dye veg a beautiful pink is an added bonus (see recipe for Pickled Radishes).

Hazelnuts: Having just tasted the jar of ‘Honeyed Hazelnuts’ we made last Christmas, drizzled over Greek yogurt and raspberries for breakfast, I am smitten.

‘Brutting’ the strongest laterals (over 30cm in length) on the hazelnut tree in late summer by snapping them in half (but DO NOT break them fully) and leaving them hanging on the tree looks like a form of vandalism but is, in fact, the best pruning method to encourage fruit buds and reduce vigour.

JOBS OUTSIDE >> • Harvest, harvest, harvest…

• Sow a final crop of overwintering

SIMPLE RASPBERRY TART >> Ingredients Pre-baked, 20cm tart case 1 pint of raspberries (250g) 3 egg yolks, large 185ml crème fraiche 3tbsp caster sugar icing sugar to dust

Method Beat the eggs yolks with a fork in a bowl; add the crème fraiche and sugar and mix well. Pour into the pastry case and arrange the raspberries in a single layer on top.

Bake for 15 minutes at 190C until just set.

Dust with icing sugar and serve cold. This can be made several hours in advance.

lettuce, radishes, chervil and corn salad.

JOBS INSIDE >> • Removal of dead/diseased foliage: lower light levels and higher humidity (dampness in the air) allow grey mould (botrytis) to flourish in the greenhouse so careful attention to hygiene is imperative to stop the spores of this fungal disease spreading.

• Continue feeding tomatoes, chillies, tomatillos, peppers, aubergines and cucumbers weekly with a high potash feed and harvest regularly. Remember the larger the crop a plant bears the smaller each individual fruit will be so if you want super-sized aubergines then only leave 3-5 to mature at once on a single plant or, if you’d like smaller ones for use in curries perhaps, then leave a larger number of fruits on the plant. Reduce the watering of chillies once the fruits begin to redden – the plant can even be left to die with the chillies hanging till fully red.

LOOKING AHEAD >> Next time we’ll be harvesting apples, concocting jellies and planting glorious garlic on the farm.

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

PICKLED RADISHES >> Ingredients 500g radishes, sliced thinly a handful of sliced perilla leaves, washed (optional) Pickling mix: 250ml rice wine vinegar 250ml water 250g granulated sugar pinch of sea salt Method Make the pickling mix by heating the vinegar, water, sugar and salt in a small saucepan until the sugar has dissolved.

Pack the sliced radishes and perilla leaves into a sterilised, 1 litre Kilner Jar. Pour over the pickling mix, seal and refrigerate once cold. Use within a month.

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ANNUAL BULB SALE >> FRI 30 SEPT & SAT 1 OCTOBER Spend a relaxing morning over coffee and cake at Widehaugh House whilst choosing which beautiful bulbs will adorn your garden next Spring: will it be stripy tulips, delicate narcissi or towering alliums? Planting advice on bulb choice and colour combinations.

Time: 10am – 1pm.

Email info@widehaughhouse.co.uk for further details.

THE ORCHARD & THE NUTTERY >> THURS 13 OCTOBER Ever picked a rosy red apple straight off the tree in July or bit into an apple that tastes like a pineapple? Damson gin, cherry brandy, greengage jam, pickled walnuts or Mrs Moffat’s apple and ginger chutney in a cheese and pickle sandwich are just a few of the reasons why it’s essential to plant fruit trees. Even the smallest gardens can accommodate different fruit trees by using dwarfing rootstocks and trained tree forms.

Time: 10am - 3.30pm. Includes morning coffee and 2-course lunch. £80

MORE BREAD - PART 2 >> FRI 14 OCTOBER In response to those who attended bread basics and wanted more! Join us on this one day workshop and learn how to make perfect Pretzels, crusty Baguettes, delicious Doughnuts, Buckwheat Blinis and Tarte Flambée. Depart with recipes and your own warm, hand-made breads.

Time: 9.30am -3.30pm. Includes morning coffee and refreshments and a 2-course lunch £95

BULBS, GLORIOUS BULBS >> TUES 25 OCTOBER Pots of stripy parrot tulips, snowdrops in the depths of winter, geranium-scented daffs, a narcissus named ‘poeticus’, bulbs span the seasons and no matter what your soil type there are varieties suitable for your garden that will add interest at any time of year.

Bring along a favourite pot/container and you’ll depart with it fully planted ready for a stunning spring display.

Time: 10am – 3.30pm. Including morning coffee/cakes and a 2-course lunch. £85

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Afternoon Tea at Seaham Hall Indulge in a delicious Afternoon Tea at Seaham Hall where you can relax in our luxurious lounges or on our terrace overlooking the evocative Durham Heritage Coastline.

Afternoon Tea £22 per person Champagne Afternoon Tea £32 per person Why not treat someone special?

All our Afternoon Tea packages are available as gift vouchers... the perfect present!

Find all our gift ideas at... www.seaham-hall.co.uk

Seaham Hall, Lord Byron’s Walk, Seaham, County Durham, SR7 7AG Call: 0191 516 1400 Email: restaurants@seaham-hall.com

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HARVEST TIME

Eat Seasonal WITH ANDREW WILKINSON OF ARTISAN

The freshness of lovely seasonal, green vegetables pairs beautifully with halibut

Apple parfait, yoghurt sorbet & warm blackberries >>

Autumn serves up a mouthwatering selection of seasonal fruits and what better way to showcase these succulent flavours than with an indulgent dessert?

Juicy, sumptuous blackberries are perfect for transitioning between summer and autumn, with their sweetness typically becoming more pronounced by the month of September. These soft berries work wonderfully with the crisp, tart flavour of the humble Granny Smith apple - also in its prime in the autumn months. Together, they beautifully complement the recipe’s smooth parfait and luscious yoghurt sorbet, creating something of a dreamy dessert experience.

As always, we’ll be serving up this season’s finest locally sourced ingredients in our Seasonal Showcases – look out for traditional classics, woodland and bonfire feast inspired tasting menus in the coming months.

Artisan, The Biscuit Factory, Newcastle, NE2 1AN. Tel: 0191 260 5411. Web: www.artisannewcastle.com.

Twitter @artisan_NE

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Ingredients

Method

APPLE PUREE >> 10 apples (Granny Smith) 800ml apple juice 200ml apple brandy Juice of 1 lemon

APPLE PUREE >> Peel and dice apples, place in a pan with the apple juice, apple brandy & lemon juice.

Place over a medium heat & stew until soft.

Blitz and pass through a fine sieve.

Reserve and keep warm.

APPLE PARFAIT >> 160g egg yolks 220g caster sugar 150ml water 300ml double cream 7 leaves of gelatine 900g apple puree

APPLE PARFAIT >> In a Kitchenaid bowl whisk egg yolks until doubled in volume.

In a saucepan bring sugar & water up to 121°C Add syrup mixture to the egg yolks slowly & whisk until cool.

Soak gelatin leaves in cold water & add to the hot apple puree, whisk until dissolved.

Whip the double cream up to soft peaks.

Fold the apple puree into the egg mix, followed by the double cream.

Set into molds and freeze overnight.

YOGHURT SORBET >> 1 ltr full fat yoghurt 500g sugar 500g water 2 lemons (juiced) WARM BLACKBERRIES >> 2 punnets of blackberries 50g icing sugar Juice of 1 lemon

YOGHURT SORBET >> Bring sugar & water up to the boil.

Take off the heat & whisk in yoghurt.

Season with lemon juice and pass.

Churn and freeze.

WARM BLACKBERRIES >> Puree 1 punnet of blackberries with the icing sugar & lemon.

Pass through fine sieve & warm in a small pan.

Add a few blackberries to the sauce Serve as pictured.

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It’s the season of harvest and we like it when the fruits of the apple tree find their way to savoury chutneys and luscious cider. Perfect for your Indian summer picnics L’Atypique limited edition craft cider is made in the style of champagne, £8.95.

L’Atypique reserve rose cider gets its soft pink hues and a hint of sweetness from a touch of beetroot in the production, £11.99.

DRINK WITH >> Neal’s Yard Lincolnshire Poacher £28.50/kg and Peter’s Yard crispbread, £4.50 Add a dollop of Fox Gourmet apple, white grape and thyme jelly, £3.50 or Fine Cheese Co quince paste, £4.99 All food and drink available in the Fenwick Food Hall and Fenwick Wine Shop, Fenwick, Newcastle

‘TIS THE SEASON TO DINE OUT IN STYLE

Throughout December we offer set lunch and à la carte menus that celebrate the festive season.

Expect classic, locally sourced ingredients prepared with a modern twist by our awardwinning head chef Andrew Wilkinson.

PRIVATE DINING

We can also cater for larger restaurant parties of up to 80.

For more information, call 0191 260 5411.

WWW.ARTISANNEWCASTLE.COM

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Image: Sean Elliott

Private dining is available in our beautiful and intimate Drawing Room for up to 22 guests.

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KID YOU NOT

Getting your goat Goat meat is growing in popularity as a healthy, alternative foodstuff.

Kathryn Armstrong talks to farmer and chef about the new kid in the kitchen

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At farmers’ markets and in independent butchers shops, the sight of goat meat is becoming increasingly common.

Having scoffed on a goat and chilli scotch egg at a food festival recently, it became clear that goat meat is hitting the mainstream.

Cooking with goat meat is nothing new. In certain parts of the world it is a staple – chances are you’ve probably tasted it yourself in a meat curry on a Greek island.

But now you can find it on the menu in urban Jesmond where chef Matt Brown serves up goat in a tasty tagine at the new restaurant, Harissa.

His meat hasn’t travelled far, a short journey from Morpeth where farmers June and Martin Whiting run The Goat Company and where at any one time you might see around 170 goats scampering in their open fields.

June and Martin are long-time beef farmers with a herd of Aberdeen Angus.

They first bought goats a few years ago with a view to selling goats milk and cheese.

They found they were better suited to meat production and their healthy product, available at farmers’ markets and online, is proving increasingly popular to people seeking an alternative to more fatty meats.

“Goat is a very healthy meat, high in iron,

vitamins and lower in saturated fats than other meats, so that is some of the appeal”, says June.

“It is also very tasty. People eat it across the world. It works as a meat that can be slow-cooked, or minced for burgers and sausages”, she adds.

Older goat meat has a stronger flavour compared with kid, younger meat.

“It tastes a bit like lamb but more gamey”, says June who sells the farm’s meat at a

number of local farmers’ markets (details on their website).

There are a number of different cuts available, usually very similar to those you see from lamb. One of the most popular options is for diced meat, which can be on or off the bone. This is one of the easiest options to cook.

“One of the best ways to cook goat is either in a slow cooker or to cook it with moisture; slow, low temperature cooking

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KID YOU NOT

Try it for yourself. Here’s Matt’s tagine recipe Goat Tagine >> in moisture gives some of the best results and provides meat that is rich, full of flavour and remains tender and juicy’, says June.

Head Chef at Jesmond restaurant Harissa Kitchen, Matt Brown, is passionate about using as many local ingredients as possible.

When it came to developing a special for the first month of Harissa’s opening, using The Goat Company was an easy choice.

“Goat is a common meat used in North Africa and around parts of the Mediterranean, so to find a local business supplying this is perfect”, says Matt.

“Goat Tagine is a classic North African dish; being able to create a full flavoured dish, with this traditional ingredient from a local supplier is a great example of how we want to do things at Harissa. The goat has a deeper flavour than lamb and is perfect slow cooked on the bone.” www.thegoatcompany.com www.harissakitchen.co.uk

Slow-cooked goat with Middle Eastern spices, fresh herbs and olives. Served with saffron rice and homemade flatbread SERVES 6 Ingredients

Method

2tsp ground cumin 1tsp ground turmeric 2tsp ras-el-hanout spice mix 1tsp saffron strands 2tbsp vegetable oil 600g goat meat, cut into cubes 1 onion, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, chopped 1 red chilli, stalk and seeds removed, chopped 16cm fresh root ginger, unpeeled, finely grated 1 cinnamon stick 800g tinned tomatoes 2tbsp honey 200g ready-to-eat dried apricots, roughly chopped 1 medium preserved lemon, skin only, roughly chopped 250g marinated olives Fresh coriander, mint and parsley for garnish Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Add the ground cumin, turmeric and ras-el-hanout to a bowl with the vegetable oil and mix together until combined to form a paste. Rub the paste over the goat meat and set aside to marinade for at least 2 hours. (For best results leave overnight, to really allow the flavours to infuse the meat!)

When the meat is ready to go, add oil to a pan and gently fry the onions, garlic, chilli, ginger and cinnamon until soft and just beginning to brown.

Add the goat meat and brown it on all sides.

When the goat is brown on the outside add the remaining tinned tomatoes, olives, honey, apricots and lemon skin. Season with black pepper and salt and leave to slowly simmer for 4 to 6 hours until the goat is cooked until soft and tender and comes off the bone easily.

Garnish with fresh chopped herbs and serve with bulgur wheat, saffron rice or homemade flatbread.

01609 882671 | Staddlebridge, Northallerton, DL6 3JB enquiries@theclevelandtontine.com | www.theclevelandtontine.com

WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU SOON Open 7 days a Week Lunch | 12noon – 2.30pm | Sunday 3pm Dinner | 5.30pm – 9.30pm Afternoon Tea Served | 12noon – 5pm Why not stay the night... we have 7 beautiful bedrooms

PROVENANCE INNS & HOTELS NORTH YORKSHIRE | www.provenanceinns.com

SEP/OCT16

THE AWARD WINNING CLEVELAND TONTINE NEAR NORTHALLERTON

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TURBOT TALK

Fish course WITH TERRY LAYBOURNE

A fishy equivalent to Wagyu beef or white truffles - turbot is the Rolls Royce of the flatfish, the king of the sea. Try a taste of royalty

Whole Roast Turbot with Lindisfarne Oysters, Scallops, Cucumber and a Champagne Cream >> SERVES 2 Ingredients

Method

1 x 1kg Turbot 6 Lindisfarne Oysters, removed from the shell 3 Large King Scallops, each cut into 3 ½ Cucumber, diced into 1cm cubes 2 Shallots, finely chopped 4 Sprigs of Thyme 2 Garlic Cloves, finely chopped 200mls Champagne 175g Butter, diced into 1cm cubes 1 tbsp. Double Cream Salt Pepper Lemon Juice

Pre-heat the oven to 180oC/Gas Mark 4.

Place the turbot on a large baking tray and drizzle generously with olive oil, lemon juice and seasoning.

Roast in the oven for 30-35 minutes until the flesh has turned opaque and flakes from the bone (when testing the thickest part of the fish). Cover the fish with tin foil halfway through cooking if the fish starts to dry out.

Meanwhile, bring a saucepan of salted water to the boil, add the cubes of cucumber, quickly blanch them and then immediately rinse in iced water. Drain well and put to one side.

To make the sauce, place the shallots, garlic, thyme and champagne into a saucepan and bring to a simmer - leave the liquid to reduce down to about 1/3. Next, whisk in the butter a cube at a time, until the sauce becomes thick and glossy, then add the cream. Finally, add the oysters, scallops and cucumber and poach for around 40 seconds.

Place the turbot onto a large serving plate, pour the sauce in and around it and accompany with boiled potatoes and fresh green vegetables.

TURBOT >> Large and lean with firm, gleaming white meaty flesh and a delicate flavour, turbot is an elite fish dubbed ‘the pheasant of the sea’ for its beauty, divine flavor and majestic size.

With bumpy, sandy-coloured skin, a minute head and symmetrical body, turbot is a master of disguise that blends effortlessly into the seabed. Found in shallow waters throughout the North East Atlantic Ocean, with the majority being caught in the North Sea, turbot is in season from September through to February.

An absolute delight to cook with – turbot is at its best cooked whole because the bones help retain moisture and flavor during the cooking process. When buying, look for clear, protruding eyes and bright red gills – it should be firm to touch and smell of the sea.

This deluxe fish suits being accompanied by a simple and elegant garnish but is versatile enough to handle bold flavours too. A suitably luxurious accompaniment of Lindisfarne oysters, king ccallops and champagne cream sauce allows for a little extra seafood indulgence yet lets the turbot do the talking. An undoubtedly decadent dinner for two – made even lovelier when served with a chilled glass of classic white Burgundy.

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THE EEL DEAL

Off duty WITH DAVE COULSON

Smoked eel adds something of the exotic to this supper dish which is one to impress

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Duck breast, Eel, Feta, Tomato, Peach >> Ingredients

Method

4 duck breasts 1 fillet smoked eel 8 sundried tomatoes 2ltr chicken stock 200g feta cheese 4 peaches 4 heritage tomatoes

Pan fry the duck breasts skin side down on a medium heat for eight minutes (or until really crisp). Remove from the heat and rest in the pan for 10 minutes (keep warm). Quarter the tomatoes, cut the peach into segments, season with salt and blow torch (keep warm) – put to one side.

Dice the eel, into small pieces and blend any trim through some mayo (because it’s delicious). Put to one side until ready to assemble.

Reduce the stock by two thirds. Add the diced eel and sundried tomatoes, slice some peach on a mandolin and lightly salt.

Serve as shown.

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LUXE LIFE

JOANNE WISHART

Coastal artist Joanne lives and breathes summer seaside holidays in her paintings which are inspired by the North East coastline. Autumn will see the launch of her Snowdog designs for the Great North Snowdogs public art trail. You can see her creations on the trail during September and November - they will then be auctioned off to raise money for St Oswalds Hospice. www.greatnorthsnowdogs.co.uk

LUXE PEOPLE >> My husband for having so much faith in my work he gave up his own career for us to work together on our creative business. I also have to mention my twin sons. They were born three months prematurely and have blossomed after a difficult start to life. Their endless energy keeps me going!

LUXE PLACES >> For a weekend > Camping near the Northumberland coast, there is nothing better than the fresh sea air and wonderful scenery we have on our doorstep. Alnmouth is special to me as it is where I spent my summer holidays visiting my grandparents.

A long holiday > I much prefer sailing than flying. So hopping on board the ferry from North Shields and sailing to Europe is a great way to travel. Taking the car gives you freedom to explore new places. Holland has vibrant cities and a beautiful coastline; I especially love the Wadden Sea Islands.

A treat > We have just returned home from a wonderful holiday in Pembrokeshire, Wales. I love treating my kids to adventurous activities that challenge them and get the adrenaline pumping. We all tried body boarding, climbing and zip wiring, followed by lots of Welsh ice cream!

LUXE RELAX >> Best food > I love to eat and cook quality organic food, I enjoy home cooking and like trying new recipes in the kitchen.

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Best wine > Red, with a family roast dinner.

Favourite restaurant > It’s a tie between a casual seafood wrap from Riley’s Fish shack in Tynemouth’s King Edwards Bay and the Staith House on North Shields Fish Quay.

Both a stone’s throw from home and serve fantastic fresh local produce.

Perfect weekend > Weekends are for family time. A Saturday morning lie in followed by homemade pancakes. Then we would head out for the day to somewhere like Beamish Museum. An evening Pizza and a family film to finish off the day. Sundays have to involve a good roast dinner in a country pub, followed by an afternoon walk on the beach of course!

Downtime means > A bit of time for me, time that I invest in my own health and well being. I’ve always loved to be active and have been practicing Vinyasa Flow Yoga for the last few years. It’s a great workout followed by relaxation.

Best telly > I love the Apprentice, Dragons Den, Amazing Spaces and the Great British Sewing Bee. Programmes that encourage creativity and entrepreneurial skills always interest me.

Best book > Currently I am rediscovering children’s fiction with my sons. I love to read to them and feed their imagination. One day I would love to illustrate a children’s picture book, it’s been a lifelong ambition.

Best sounds > The sound of the waves splashing at the beach.

LUXE SHOP >> Best shopping city > York is a lovely city; I prefer to seek out small independent shops, rather than using the big

chain stores. I especially love shops with creative and imaginative interiors.

Favourite shop > RE -found objects is a pretty special shop and I also love a haberdashery! Fabric shopping is my weakness. I have lost hours of my life browsing through fabric swatches.

Luxe retail treat > A real treat for me is buying handmade accessories or interior products designed by creative people that I meet at art fairs and exhibitions. I like to buy one of a kind pieces and it’s nice to meet the person who makes them.

Best buy > I recently bought an upcycled vintage school desk for my twin boys. I noticed it at the St Oswalds Charity Shop warehouse when I met the team co-ordinating the Great North Snowdog project that I have been working on.

LUXE PARTY >> A memorable night out > When I was a student I saw Graham Norton do a comedy gig live. He picked on me in the audience, laughing that I was studying for a degree in Textiles! What does he know?

Perfect party > Friends, family, music, dancing and more dancing. Did I say I liked dancing?

Best dress > I am more at home in a pair of Jeans, but if an occasion requires a dress I will always go for something colourful.

Dinner date > My husband of course. We always like to have a walk along the beach together first to build up an appetite. It is nice to have time together to chat about our future plans and dreams together.

YOUR LUXE THINGS IN LIFE >> My life on the whole is my real luxury. Some days I have to pinch myself and think is this really my job! I feel privileged to be able to spend my time creatively. It certainly isn’t a 9-5 existence, I work hard but I balance my work around my young family and have a life and career I enjoy.

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BROWSING

live it luxe all day every day

A new and stylish corner of the Internet, filled with the best bits from the North Eastâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most celebrated lifestyle magazines. Browse our website at:

luxe-magazine.co.uk

PARTING SHOT

Ready for the off >> Golden girl cyclist Laura Trott captured by photographer Chris Auld at the 2016 UCI World Track Championships at the London Velodrome www.chrisauldphotography.com

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