Luxe Issue 44 January/February 2017

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ISSUE 44 JAN/FEB17

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www.luxe-magazine.co.uk ISSUE 44 JAN/FEB17

J AYN E SE C K E R M A K I NG NEW S . L i f eGui d e. S KY H IG H M O ON MAN. Chillo ut f a s hi o n . L I V I N G I T UP. Mi d-l i f e mo ment s. EQUES TR IA N. Party people.

W R I T E R S I N T H E K N OW. A cul t ur al 2017. B E FIT& W EL L . Luxe laps. HIP HOT E L S. Bi g n a m e s . LUX E.

WHERE SOLD

WELCOME

contents 8>> Do This ISSUE 44 JAN/FEB17 So, as I write this, the Salvation Army band is outside harking the herald angels this festive Monday morning.

Meanwhile, as you read this, all angel jollity will have ceased and given way to Dry January.

In the time it takes to say Good King Wenceslas we go from the diet of chocolate and port for every meal to sobriety and the ritual juicing of every vegetable left in the house.

But we’d rather you went at a different pace if change is what your 2017 is about. Inside this edition of Luxe you’ll find our first ever LifeGuide. It’s all about the people we like to call Generation Ageless. People like Sting - a cool grandpa (of six!) if ever there was one.

Mid-lifers who might not be global superstars but who have a relaxed and youthful approach to the future - and who are enjoying the headspace that it brings.

LifeGuide is about seeing the future as the next opportunity, making the most of family and arming you with helpful hacks for the happy days ahead. We hope you enjoy.

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

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

Make some plans for 2017

14>> Charity Good people doing good things

20>> Stable chat Our new equestrian column with Deb Smith

22>> Varsha’s picks Living it up near and far

24 >> Chill out fashion Winter gear to cosy-up

34>> Style swipe Spring’s on-trend choices

42>> Stand tall Jen Bernard is MD of Bernard Interiors in Ponteland. Designing beautiful spaces is her thing and she’s also kept busy with her toddler, William.

Her luxe things in life include some time out in her favourite place, Majorca, indulging in seafood and lazy breakfasts.

She loves the chance to escape to Venice - or some retail therapy that results in a pair of Jimmy Choos.

Fitness trend in the valley

44>> Jayne Secker Mother-daughter making the news

52>> Wine cruise Portugal the peaceful way

54>> Party people Out and about with you

58>> Flying high Pilot and plane-buyer James Moon

74>> Dream home Scaffolding and stair scares

86>> On fire Chef Andrew Richardson home and away

Kathryn Armstrong, editor

94>> Light lunch

kathryn@remembermedia.co.uk Twitter: TheLuxeMagazine

Laybourne’s super-healthy tuna

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 elysia@remembermedia.co.uk SALES Lisa Anderson director lisa@remembermedia.co.uk Debi Coldwell director debi@remembermedia.co.uk PHOTOGRAPHY Chris Auld chris@chrisauldphotography.co.uk Kevin Gibson info@kgphotography.co.uk Nicky Rogerson nicky@kgphotography.co.uk Jennifer Bernard photo by Kristen McCluskie

James Moon has his sights set high - he owns, flies and deals in aeroplanes. His luxe things in life include flying and the freedom that it offers, and family time, especially with niece Beatrice. Also helping organise ‘life-changing’ flights for the disabled, terminally-ill or disadvantaged families.

DESIGN David Stubbs creative director dave@remembermedia.co.uk 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, December 2016.

Deb Smith joins Luxe to write about equestrian happenings in the region.

Her luxe things in life include a stay at the Four Season resort in Nevis.

She loves settling down with a box of Charbonnel et Walker Rose and Violet Creams and snuggling beneath a Hermès hand-woven cashmere blanket.

luxe is published bi-monthly by Remember Media Ltd

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JAN/FEB17

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LUXE LIFE

HELEN HUNT Helen Hunt qualified as a solicitor in 2003 and joined the family department of Tilly, Bailey & Irvine LLP in 2005. She transferred to Wynyard to work in the Private Family Team in 2015.

Helen grew up in Derby and moved to the North East in 2000.

She is married with two young sons.

LUXE PEOPLE >> My parents have always supported and encouraged me, for which I will be forever grateful. It was instilled in me as a child that I would be going to university, for the experience as a whole, rather than just to achieve a degree and I feel very fortunate to have been given that opportunity.

LUXE PLACES >> For a weekend > I would have to say Rome, for the atmosphere, the history and the food. As to new adventures, I have always wanted to visit Paris, although that may have to wait for now, as I’m off to Amsterdam in the spring for a catch up with family.

A long holiday > Before we had our children my husband and I spent three weeks in Australia.

My highlights were diving off the Great Barrier Reef, climbing Sydney Harbour Bridge and white-water rafting in Cairns. I rather suspect that our next long holiday might involve Disneyland – a bit of a difference!

LUXE RELAX >> Best food > I love Italian food and a good steak, however I have a sweet tooth, so pretty much anything on the dessert menu.

Best wine > Prosecco.

Favourite restaurant > During our trip to Australia we were lucky enough to visit Doyle’s on the Beach in Sydney Harbour. We ate lobster on the beach as the sun set and it is one of my favourite memories.

Perfect weekend > Something action-packed with the kids on Saturday followed by a lovely meal and a few drinks with my husband and some friends. Sunday morning would be a time to relax, then we would sit down to a full roast dinner, cooked by someone else.

Downtime means > It rarely happens however I do love putting my feet up with a cup of tea, some chocolate and a good book.

Best telly > I don’t watch much TV, but I do like Sherlock and I particularly enjoyed the recent series of Victoria. My guilty pleasure is Strictly Come Dancing.

Best theatre > I enjoy live comedy; we were lucky enough to see Peter Kay a few years ago and he was brilliantly entertaining.

Best book > For me, it has to be To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. I read it as a child and have enjoyed it just as much every time I have re-read it since.

LUXE SHOP >> Best shopping city > I tend to shop online nowadays. The thought of a full day shopping no longer holds the appeal it once did.

Luxe retail treat > A luxury lodge in the middle of nowhere, with my mobile turned off for the weekend sounds perfect.

LUXE PARTY >> A memorable night out > There have been so many, but good food, good company and a dancefloor feature in my best nights out.

Perfect party > I love a good New Year’s Eve party catching up with friends and letting my hair down.

Best dress > Would have to be my wedding dress. I like to think it is simple and elegant and so it hasn’t dated. It was extremely hot on our wedding day and as he was helping me out of the car our photographer dropped the bottom of my dress into the tarmac, which had melted.

He panicked and ran off shouting that you couldn’t see (which was actually true) which made me and my dad laugh. Even though it can’t be cleaned I can’t part with it and it’s boxed up in the attic.

YOUR LUXE THING IN LIFE >> My favourite people in the world are my two boys who can always make me smile. I think I answer more questions each day than a professional game show contestant and I don’t know what I would do without Google!

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LUXE LOVES

LUXE LOVES Lights fantastic Create bold impact with show-stopping colour to suit your style. This Hercules chandelier and table lamp are made by Villa Lumi in Portugal. In chrome-plated brass with a choice of coloured shades, they can be made to any size.

Six-light chandelier, ÂŁ1,316 and table lamp, ÂŁ472 complete with shades. www.sarahbowenlighting.co.uk

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SS17 COLLECTIONS NOW ARRIVING IN STORE Coat and Top Paul Smith

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Jeans Vivienne Westwood

Northumberland Street, Newcastle upon Tyne www.fenwick.co.uk

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Bag Mulberry

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Heels Dune

DO THIS

Stay in >> go out >> enjoy Elysia Agnew has her finger on the culture pulse for the start of your year

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Our favourite cheeky brit and award winning comedian, Jack Whitehall returns to Sunderland, bringing all the comic relief you’ll need after the festive blues this winter. The host of the Royal Variety Performance and star of Bad Education and A League Of Their Own hits the Sunderland Empire stage on 13 January - catch him while you can! www.atgtickets.com

THROUGHOUT JANUARY & FEBRUARY Be swept up in Wanderlust and transport yourself through a journey of three centuries, in this exhibition of the Laing Art Gallery’s watercolour collection. Beginning with a beautiful scene of beloved Newcastle, artists will give you a glimpse into how the British public saw the world. Featuring artists such as Edward Lear, JMW Turner, John Constable, David Roberts, JW Carmichael and John Singer Sargent, this one is worth the wander! www.laingartgallery.org.com

14 JANUARY Take a well-deserved break from the hectic sales shopping and indulge in a day-long wine tasting experience at Wine Unearthed, Newcastle. Suitable for both the tasting novice and the advanced wine connoisseur, this is a winter treat that’ll have everyone eating, drinking and chatting all things wine related. Taste up to fifteen wines and enjoy a three-course meal on the day in Cafe 21’s private room on behalf of this award-winning wine organisation. www.wineunearthed.co.uk

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JANUARY

‘Oh what a night’… will be the words on your lips after experiencing this musical spectacular at Sage, Gateshead this January. Expect dancing in the isles, chart-topping hits and fantastic vocals at Big Girls Don’t Cry Celebrating The Music of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. Selling an astounding 100 million records worldwide, there’s a Four Seasons song that shares a special place in everyone’s heart. Big Girl’s Don’t Cry celebrates the astounding harmonies of New Jersey’s finest. The production will also feature show-stoppers such as ‘Sherry’, ‘December 1963’, ‘Walk Like a Man’ and ‘Working My Way Back To You’. A fabulously, feel good evening celebrating Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. www.sagegateshead.com

23-28 JANUARY Brace yourself for the much anticipated return of the timeless musical sensation that is Dirty Dancing. Get lost in electrifying dance and tender romance in this unconventional tale of girl meets boy at Newcastle’s Theatre Royal.

Featuring 35 smash hits, including favourites such as ‘Hungry Eyes’, and the big ‘I’ve Had the Time of My Life’ number. This worldwide triumph is one you simply cannot miss this January. www.theatreroyal.co.uk

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JANUARY

The fabulous foodie event returns to the North East this January. NE1 Newcastle Restaurant Week is one of the region’s leading dining events, celebrating the fantastic food that Newcastle has to offer to its diners. Whether you’re looking to discover something new or hoping to treat yourself to an old favourite, this foodie-focused week provides ample opportunity to enjoy the city’s finest restaurants at discounted prices.

Culinary connoisseurs can look forward to fine dining cuisine from the likes of Marco Pierre White and Blackfriars as well as meat-loving favourites such as Miller and Carter, Bierrex and Hop and Cleaver. Those looking for something more exotic can dine at Cabana Brazilian Barbecue, Las Iguanas, El Coto and The Herb Garden among many others. NE1 Newcastle Restaurant week is the ultimate foodie event, giving visitors the chance to sample some of the city’s savviest restaurants and celebrate seasonal favourites. www.getintonewcastle.co.uk

27-28 JANUARY

20 JANUARY This January, join Ballet Theatre UK at Middlesbrough Theatre in a passionate and innovative recreation of the world’s greatest love story. The Shakespeare favourite will be played to Sergei Prokofiev’s classic score, telling the tragic tale of Romeo and Juliet. Follow the star-crossed lovers as they experience the greatest of romances and heart-breaking consequences.

From the famous balcony scene, to the innovative stage sets and the stunning wardrobes, this production will transport audiences to Renaissance Verona where the tragic tale unfolds.

It’s the greatest love story of all - a must on your theatre to-do’s this year. www.middlesbroughtheatre.co.uk

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JANUARY

It’s a new year meaning it’s time to treat yourself to some serious downtime at Rockliffe Hall’s Caudalie Ladies Lunch. Caudalie is a French skincare brand which uses the properties of vines to boost the skin. Alongside the informative, interactive session, guests will have the chance to taste wines from Château Smith Haut Lafitte and discover the meaning of ‘Premier Cru’ in winemaking.

There will be a special Caudalie gift for you to take home. A truly unique, luxe ladies lunch at Rockliffe Hall. www.rockliffehall.com

Treat yourself to a real ale to keep you warm at Beamish this winter. This unique Winter Festival will add merriment and music to your busy January schedules. Beamish Hall becomes one of the largest real ale pubs in the region for one buzzy weekend only. Sample over 50 craft beers and cider from local and regional breweries, and enjoy a healthy variety of full-bodied flavoured gins. The festival is made complete with some of the best live acts and bands from across the North East. Expect an energetic and cheery ambience with music from local bands and entertainers. www.beamish-hall.co.uk

28 & 29 JANUARY

Immerse yourself in all the lovely things that come with a wedding at the Metro Radio Arena this January. A wonderful weekend of designer dresses, sparkling accessories and delicious cakes returns to Newcastle with The North East Wedding Fair, Spring 2017. Expect over 100 regional suppliers showcasing their beautiful goodies for brides, grooms and everyone in between. Browse fabulous flower stalls and try, buy, book and hire everything you could possibly need and more for your special day.

Everything we love about weddings - all under one roof! www.metroradioarena.co.uk

UNTIL 31 JANUARY

28 JANUARY Lucy Porter arrives in the North East with a hilarious new show, Funny Way To Be Comedy - Lucy Porter: Consequences. The comedian who has featured on QI, Mock The Week and The New Quiz, will cover some of the following topics: conflict, quizzing, Britpop, theological ethics, censorship, generational conflict and homebrewing. Don’t miss out on what promises to be a heart-felt, stand-up show of cultural observations and personal revelations. www.thewitham.org.uk

Christmas might be over for another year - but we’re still living in a winter wonderland. Head to The Botanist, Newcastle this January for an enchanting drinking and dining experience. The Botanist Open-Air Winter Wonderland transforms its roof garden into a cosy hideout for families, shoppers and city sightseers.

Festooned with fairy lights and cosy blankets, guests can wrap up outdoors with a warm glass of mulled wine or spiced apple cider in hand. The Alpine theme invites guests to enjoy all the delights of apres-ski without having to hit the slopes. We don’t need snow to celebrate this winter. Enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline as you unwind in this whimsical winter wonderland. www.thebotanist.uk.com/location/ newcastle

JAN/FEB17

Join us for the most romantic time of the year & Join us for the most romantic time of the year celebrate Valentine’s Day on & celebrate with your Valentine.

Saturday 13th & Sunday 14th February.

Indulge yourself at Windows on the Tyne with the Valentine’s package for two at £89, which includes Indulge in one of our overnight packages, starting from a romantic 4 course dinner, arrival drink and a £199.00 per couple. This Includes: bottle of Prosecco while you dine.

A romantic Valentine’s 4 course dinner with arrival drinks alongside live entertainment. & Overnight accomodation & breakfast.

For Bookings

reservations.newcastle@hilton.com

Live the life of luxury... on your doorstep Rockliffe Hall is synonymous with awardwinning food, championship golf and exceptional spa experiences all within the most luxurious surroundings. Whether you choose to spa, dine, golf or just relax, you’ll experience a five star sanctuary at the heart of the North of England.

To find out more or make a booking please call 01325 729999 or email enquiries@rockliffehall.com

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

DO THIS

UNTIL 31 JANUARY St Mary’s Inn, Morpeth invites people of the North East to bring one of the oldest, local art forms back to life this winter. The venue will showcase some of the works of local voluntary craft group, Woodhorn Matters - celebrating the traditional craft of rug making. In the mid-20th Century, Proggy mats were an economical way of keeping warm before fitted carpets became accessible. Different areas of the region used very different tools to create their rugs - in rural sheep farming areas, ram’s horns were used as proggers, while in South Shields, wooden tools used to make fishing nets would be adapted. It’s recycling at its best head to St Mary’s Inn this January to find out more. www.stmarysinn.co.uk

UNTIL 1 FEBRUARY Jesmond Dene House provides you with your art fix this winter. The ‘Newcastle Painters’ are to hit the grade ||-Listed arts and crafts mansion in a new and exclusive exhibition, showcasing a wealth of talent. Artists have travelled from the likes of Berwick and Northallerton to parttake in the exhibition. A multitude of artistic styles and outlook’s will be displayed, allowing visitors to experience the best of the region’s talented artists. www.jesmonddenehouse.co.uk

16 FEB 8 MARCH A comical, yet shockingly powerful exploration of the nature of identity comes to the Northern Stage. Hedda Gabler: This Is Not a Love Story is a brand new adaptation written and directed by Greyscale Artistic Director, Salma Dimitrijevic. It’s a true masterpiece - don’t miss out! www.northernstage.co.uk

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Dr Frankenstein comes to the Northern Stage this winter, in a brilliantly scientific representation of Mary Shelley’s classic drama.

Directed by Northern Stage Artistic Director, Lorne Campbell, this production follows the story of Dr Victoria Frankenstein as her experiments lead her to the very brink of human knowledge. www.northernstage.co.uk

FEBRUARY

Twirl your way into winter with Scottish Ballet’s enchanting take on the classic fairytale. The Scottish national dance company bring a good sized dose of festive magic and sparkle in this majestic performance of Hansel & Gretel at the Theatre Royal this February. Accompanied by Humperdinck’s infamous score and performed live by the Scottish Ballet Orchestra, this is a must for your winter diary dates. www.theatreroyal.co.uk

UNTIL 9 FEBRUARY Gather the family together to explore never seen before areas of space in this fascinating planetarium show at Newcastle’s Centre for Life. The Edge of Darkness features sensational scenes gathered from recent ground-breaking space missions.

Narrated by Hayley Atwell (best known as Agent Carter from the Marvel Cinematic Universe), visitors will see close ups of Pluto and its moons, they’ll swoop through cliffs on Comet 67P and they’ll marvel the bright lights on dwarf planet Ceres. It’s certainly something worth talking about but make sure you catch the exhibition before 9 February. www.life.org.uk

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LUXE LOVES >> << Valentine’s special 14 FEBRUARY For something a little different this Valentine’s Day, head to The Stand Comedy Club for a barrel of laughs.

Whether it’s date night or you’re hanging out with friends, we can’t think of anything better than having a giggle on High Bridge Street this year. Hal Branson and host Lee Kyle will kick off this evening of fun and witty jokes, making sure it’s a night to remember. If laughing is the key to your heart, you’ll love this night out at the comedy club. www.thestand.co.uk

with any of the Rockliffe Hall Valentine’s Day packages this year. www.rockliffehall.com

14 FEBRUARY It’s the most romantic day of the year… so be sure to book up early for a table at the lovely Blackfriars Restaurant in Newcastle. Treat your Valentine to a luxe lunch or a delicious dinner for two in the beautiful surrounds of the main restaurant. Fabulous food, wonderful wine and the perfect place for couples to celebrate their love of food as well as their love for one another. www.blackfriarsrestaurant.co.uk

14-18 FEBRUARY

THROUGHOUT FEBRUARY

12 FEBRUARY Hot on the heels of The Great British Bake Off, comedy genius and familiar face Sue Perkins arrives in Newcastle for Sue Perkins Live! In Spectacles. The telly favourite will be entertaining North East audiences with an evening of wit, exclusive tales and a user’s guide to Mary Berry. This truly delightful evening of comedy is based on her hilarious Sunday Times No.1 best-selling memoir, Spectacles. If you fancy a laugh this February, make sure you head down to see Sue at the Theatre Royal. www.theatreroyal.co.uk

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Shower your Valentine with sweet treats and spa-bound celebrations this year in the stunning surrounds of Rockliffe Hall.

Loved up guests can choose from a wide range of romantic breaks, meals and spa packages. Overnight stays include the ‘Valentine’s Escape’ - perfect for those who want to share their love of food.

For couples who are seeking out serenity, the ‘It Just Takes Two Spa Break’ is the top pick for an extra bit of TLC. We’re certain you’ll fall in love

As we approach the bicentennial of Jane Austen, what better way to celebrate than a trip to Newcastle’s Theatre Royal to see the much-loved tale of Pride and Prejudice. In an adaptation by Simon Reade, the story that is still dazzling the world after 200 years, sees the Bennet sisters who search for love in this ultimate romantic comedy. But it’s Mr Darcy who unwittingly finds his match.

Matthew Kelly will play Mr Bennet and the production will see Tafline Steen as Elizabeth Bennet, while Benjamin Dilloway will feature as Mr Darcy, Doña Croll as Lady Catherine De Bourgh and Felicity Montagu as Mrs Bennet. Take your loved one along to see this theatre favourite for Valentine’s Day. www.theatreroyal.co.uk

JAN/FEB17

NATIONAL AWARD-WINNING FACILITIES “The area’s leading school” THE SUNDAY TIMES

GOURMET NIGHT SPECIAL

ABLE AVAIL GHOUT U THRONUARY JA

ING BOOVKISED AD

Sparkling wine & petit fours in your room upon arrival.

3 course evening dinner, bed and breakfast.

£135-£165

Open

Morning Saturday 14th January 2017 10.00am - 12.00 noon

(Headmaster’s talk at the Senior School starts at 11.10am)

PER COUPLE

Senior School entrance assessments on Saturday 21st January Sixth Form interviews are now underway for 2017 entry N.B. Gourmet Nights are available Monday to Saturday. This package will be available throughout the year, though exceptions do apply please ask for availability upon booking.

Preparatory School (3-11yrs)

Tel: 01642 781447 prepschool@yarmschool.org

Senior School (11-18yrs)

Tel: 01642 786023 dmd@yarmschool.org

chaptershotel @chaptershotel Chaptershotel.co.uk | enquiries@Chaptershotel.co.uk 27 High Street, Stokesley, North Yorkshire, TS9 5AD | 01642 711888

W W W.YA R M S C H O O L .ORG

DO THIS

18 FEBRUARY Sophie Ellis-Bextor arrives in the North East this February in a celebration of her sensational new album, Familia. It’s her sixth studio album following her silver certified album, Wanderlust. She describes her new album as “the bolshier, more extrovert little sister to Wanderlust”. The dazzling new singles that make up the Familia soundtrack are set to wow audiences across the UK. People of the North East - don’t miss out at the Sage this February. www.sagegateshead.com

22-25 FEBRUARY A musical production capturing the haunting tale of Charlotte Bronte’s classic, Jane Eyre.

The Billingham Forum Theatre is set to stage the sweeping melodies and sparkling dialogue that makes up this much-loved Gothic romance. What is it that draws Jane to Mr Rochester? Will class differences tear them apart? ABD Productions tell the passionate tale of a woman who journeys from childhood to adult life, in a search for family, belonging and love. Beautiful costumes, a spellbinding score and a story that has a place in everyone’s heart. Make sure you catch this musical adaptation of the classic novel in Billingham this February. www.forumtheatrebillingham.co.uk

UNTIL 26 FEBRUARY Acclaimed Italian artist Monica Bonvicini presents a host of art wonders to BALTIC, Gateshead. With a collaboration of sculpture, installation, video, photography, text and performance, you can expect to be taken back in awe. The exhibition will be showcased across BALTIC’s Level 3 and Level 4 galleries and will display work from throughout the artist’s career. Her work centres around gender, control, power and surveillance - teasing our brains with ambiguity and the stark contrast between beauty and darkness. www.balticmill.com

24 FEBRUARY From adrenaline-fuelled adventures to exhilarating expeditions and thought-provoking experiences, explore a bit of everything from the far flung corners of the globe in this exciting event at the Princess Alexandra Auditorium in Yarm. You’ll travel through a journey of fascinating footage, igniting your passion for action and travel through a montage of the latest films from the most talented adventure film makers of today. The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour is the world’s most prestigious film festival, bringing together the most magnificent short movies for viewers to relax and enjoy. Travel thousands of miles from the comfort of your theatre seat this February. www.thepaaonline.org

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28 FEBRUARY The Royal Ballet’s much-loved classic, The Sleeping Beauty, combines beautiful ballet with its enchanting charm, virtuosity and sensational score. First choreographed to Tchaikovsky’s great musical score by Marius Petipa in 1890, The Sleeping Beauty has a combination of electrifying ensembles, stunning solos and the concluding celebratory dances for the happy union of the prince and princess. The colourful journey of these charming fairytale characters, together with the dazzling dance display, make this production of Sleeping Beauty a spectacle like no other. Book a trip to the Arc, Stockton this February to find out for yourselves… www.arconline.co.uk

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MARCH

A celebration of one of the finest singer-songwriters to date.

Someone Like You - The Adele Songbook arrives at PLAYHOUSE, Whitley Bay this March, where the outstanding Katie Markham makes her mark on all your favourite Adele hits. This enthralling concert performance portrays Katie’s show-stopping vocals and captivating charisma, recreating the magic of Adele’s three record-breaking albums. Hits include ‘Someone Like You’, ‘Make You Feel My Love’, ‘Set Fire To The Rain’, ‘Rolling In The Deep’ and the multi-million seller, ‘Skyfall’. www.playhousewhitleybay.co.uk

live it luxe all day every day

MARCH

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The legendary tale of the Blood Brothers tells the captivating story of twins who are separated at birth, only to meet again with fateful consequences. The all-encompassing, exciting score includes numbers such as, Bright New Day, Marilyn Monroe and the emotionally charged hit, Tell Me It’s Not True.

It’s a fabulous theatre spectacular that you must add to your social calendar this March.

Book your tickets now at Newcastle’s Theatre Royal. www.theatreroyal.co.uk

A magnificently staged, glorious celebration of ballet, complete with breath-taking designs and an enchanting fairytale journey. This March at the Sunderland Empire, people of the North East are invited to step into the magical world of Cinderella - where Fairy Godmothers create miracles, pumpkins are turned into sparkling carriages and the all important glass slippers determine fate. This timeless story of love, courage and kindness will change one girl’s life forever. The Birmingham Royal Ballet will bring a mix of dazzling dancing, spectacular scenery and a beautiful exploration of our favourite fairytale. It’s one for all the family. www.atgtickets.com

BROWSING A new and stylish corner of the Internet, filled with the best bits from the North East’s most celebrated lifestyle magazines. Browse our website at: luxe-magazine.co.uk

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JAN/FEB17

ADVERTORIAL

Caring about the small things to make a big difference

New Year, New Start Should a Cohabitation Agreement Feature In Your New Year’s Resolutions?

Many couples now choose to live together without getting married, yet it appears that the law governing financial disputes that arise upon their separation has failed to keep step with the changing values of society

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Many cohabitants do not have a clear understanding of their legal status and wrongly believe that their position is protected by their “common law marriage.”

The reality however is that the concept of a “common law marriage” is a myth without legal meaning; a couple could live together for decades, but this of itself does not automatically create financial claims between them if they do not go on to marry. This can come as a nasty shock at what may already be a difficult time, particularly if one of the couple is financially dependent upon the other.

It is well established that if a married couple divorce that the Court has discretion to re-apportion income and assets to achieve a fair outcome. The same rules do not apply to unmarried couples and instead the Court will look towards the joint intentions of the couple and agreements made between them. This is by no means guaranteed to produce a fair result. Further, all too often the couple has totally different views as to what was or was not agreed between them.

The Court can be invited to resolve claims but this is often an area for the brave. This can be

a complex area of law and legal costs can quickly escalate. There is also the threat of a double whammy as the “loser” can be ordered to pay the legal costs of the “winner”.

It is therefore advisable for any couple who are going to live together, to enter into a Cohabitation Agreement, which should set out who owns what and how assets will be divided in the event of separation. Certain formalities should be followed to ensure that the Agreement is as watertight as possible.

Approached in this way, while the relationship is still on a firm footing, a Cohabitation Agreement should provide evidence as to agreements reached and ensure the couple have an understanding of their own legal position, leaving them better placed to make financial decisions during the relationship, for example, whether to give up work to care for any children of the relationship or whether a house owned by only one of them should be transferred into joint names to reflect an agreement that it is to be treated as joint property.

As a new year dawns minds often turn to thoughts of New Year’s resolutions. This is a pivotal time for anyone planning to cohabit (or who may already be cohabiting) and should consider taking steps to protect their position by entering into a Cohabitation Agreement.

Helen Hunt is a Private Family lawyer specialising in divorce, legal arrangements and pre and post nuptial agreements at Tilly Bailey & Irvine Law Firm’s Commercial office based at Wynyard just off the A19 in Teesside.

Tilly Bailey & Irvine Law Firm 12 Evolution, Wynyard Park, TS22 5TB T: 0800 052 6824 www.tbilaw.co.uk Find us on Twitter @tbilaw

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13

SWEET CHARITY

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

Staff from RMB Auto take part in the Big Tees Sleepout, from left: Yvonne Ruffles, Andy Fowle, Andrea Small and Tarah Johnson.

WARM HEARTS >> Staff from three Teesside businesses proved they had warm hearts to go with their cold feet as they braved the freezing temperatures by sleeping out to help raise nearly £7,000 to fight local homelessness and poverty.

Employees of RMB Auto, Hartlepool’s Heir Hunters and the local branch of Biffa were among a group of more than 50 fundraisers who took part in the eighth Big Tees Sleepout, organised by charity Teesside Philanthropic Foundation.

All of the funds went towards supporting local food banks, homelessness charities and amazing Christmas appeals by the Salvation Army.

BOW-WOW >>

FOR NICKY >> A ball to raise research funds and celebrate the life of Morpeth mum and academic, Nicky Asbury takes place in April.

Nicky, described as a ‘tour de force’, was 52 when she died last year from the rare cancer, uterine leiomyosarcoma, following a number of surgeries and chemotherapy.

She was mum to boys Jake, Lucas and Issac, aged ten to 23.

She had been a psycho-oncologist in the North East, working with people who were coping with cancer themselves when she was diagnosed with the disease in 2015.

Her work as an academic with Newcastle University had seen her publish a number of papers on the subject.

Nicky’s husband, Dr Mark Welfare, a gastroenterologist and academic in Newcastle, felt it would be fitting after her death to do something to further research into the ‘orphan cancer’ that claimed the life of Nicky.

Mark said his wife was a “tour de force”, describing her as an “inspiring, warm, intelligent and vibrant woman who lived life to the full”.

He set up a fund to raise half of the £36,000 needed to fund a three-year PhD fellowship. Newcastle University agreed to fund the other half.

This money has been raised – and now Mark and his family are raising money to extend the study to four years.

“So far ourselves we have raised £25,000 and the University have raised £16,000 from their alumni, which is amazing.

“The Fellowship holder will undertake research into this rare cancer with the hope of improving prevention, diagnosis, understanding of its molecular biology or treatment.

We will work with clinicians and academics to raise the profile of this cancer, to encourage NICE to develop guidelines on its diagnosis and management and improve the outcome - which at present is very poor with no good treatments other than surgery”, says Mark.

The fund-raising ball is on Saturday 29th April at the Marriott, Gosforth Park.

Tickets are £40 in tables of ten or twelve. There will be a three course dinner, auction, table games and a raffle as well as a band playing a mix of old and new.

Tickets from mark.welfare@hotmail.com or 07713631089

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Great North Snowdogs raised more than £250,000 for children with life-limiting conditions in the North East.

The 61 individually decorated sculptures went under the hammer at an auction at Sage Gateshead.

Among the highlights of the night were the glittering Disco Dog and Guide Dog, which each topped the £9,000 mark.

The dog that inspired the greatest response in the room was undoubtedly Wild North East – decorated by artist Jina Gelder, with the help of some of the children receiving care and support at the Hospice.

St Oswald’s had launched a justgiving campaign to raise money to bid for their dog and as bidding got underway, donations poured in from supporters And, closing the sale at £7,000, auctioneer Julian Thomson from Anderson & Garland, said: “Wild North East is going home.”

JOIN THE MESS >> Newcastle United’s St James’ Park is to host a Military Dinner on 2 March 2017, to raise funds for the Royal British Legion charity, which provides lifelong support for the Armed Forces community - serving men and women, veterans and their families. The dinner, which is also being supported by the Ministry of Defence, is the brainchild of the stadium’s catering partner Sodexo Prestige Venues & Events and is already set to be one of the most impressive and glittering events in the stadium’s social calendar. The four course meal will be served in traditional MESS format, with traditions such as the passing of the port and toasts to HM The Queen and guests will include serving members of the Fifth Battalion the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers in full dress uniform.

For more information contact St James’s Park on 0191 201 8525 or e-mail candb@nufc.co.uk

COCO CHEER >> Tyneside based COCO (Comrades of Children Overseas) raised more than £15,000 at its annual black tie ball at the Hilton Hotel in Gateshead.

As well as showcasing some of the work that COCO has undertaken over the last 12 months, the event raised money for future projects. COCO was co-founded by Steve Cram and British Army Major Jim Panton in 2000 and its headquarters are in Newcastle.

COCO invests in small, sustainable, community led initiatives that can make a big difference at a local level, and has raised and invested over £3.5m since its foundation. The charity has now supported over 50 transformational projects in 16 countries, positively impacting the lives of over 150,000 people. www.coco.org.uk

RECORD-RAISING >> Tiny Lives Charity Ball, held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Newcastle raised a record £22,441 to help premature and sick babies in the North East. The annual event raises money so Tiny Lives can continue to support families at a really critical time in their lives whilst their sick baby is on the Special Care Baby Unit at Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary. www.tinylives.org.uk

JAN/FEB17

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ADVERTORIAL

Family foundations Generosity helps, more than you might think…

The North East is renowned for its hardworking, honest, enterprising and successful people. Moreover the region has a proud community spirit. We try to take care of each other, particularly the vulnerable and less fortunate when in desperate need of help and support.

I have had the privilege of volunteering at a well-known children’s charity in Newcastle and have seen first-hand the profound benefits of the practical and compassionate support it provides.

My reward for simply giving-up some time was a feeling of warm satisfaction and well-being. However, the rewards for those considering philanthropy can extend from emotional into financial and practical benefits too.

Frequently those with accumulated wealth have a desire to ‘give something back’ but aren’t particularly comfortable with Inheritance Tax (IHT) as a way of doing so.

As part of their estate planning, philanthropic legacies could instead be used to direct funds to preferred charities on death.

Charitable legacies can reduce the value of an estate on which IHT is charged, potentially to nil. Additionally, depending on the amounts involved, where there is still IHT to pay on retained family wealth, then that might be at a reduced rate of 36%, rather than 40% as is normally the case.

JAN/FEB17

To give added peace of mind and potentially longer term control and remembrance, a “family foundation” could be considered.

This is essentially a personalised charity, funded solely, or primarily, through an individual, a family or a family business.

The reasons for deciding to establish a family foundation can vary from family to family but triggers can include: • a desire to meet a need in society which does not appear to have been identified by others • to pass on the importance of altruism and philanthropy to younger generations in the family • to provide a tool to teach younger generations how to deal with money responsibly (recognising they may be likely to inherit significant private wealth) • to intentionally limit the inheritance that younger generations will receive.

The establishment of a family foundation could form part of a family’s long-term wealth management plan. The structure could provide as much or as little control as the founder desires (subject to complying with the law), along with flexible arrangements to involve younger members of the family in a consultative role.

Usually the approach is with the objective of furthering such charitable purposes as the trustees, in their discretion, decide. This gives freedom to react quickly to charitable needs in a changing social and economic

climate. The foundation can reflect the unique interests of the family, whether they be local, national or international in focus, and represents an opportunity to match private giving with public needs.

For many successful individuals, a desire to make a social impact with their wealth and expertise is a highly important way of giving back. To do so effectively and efficiently in today’s landscape of regulation, complex tax reliefs and media scrutiny, it is vital to receive high quality, knowledgeable advice from practitioners who specialise not only in managing wealth but also in the intricacies of charitable giving. Choosing advisers capable of meeting all those needs and helping you with the stewardship of your family wealth is key for those who wish to have crafted structures and beneficial outcomes from their giving.

As Andrew Carnegie famously said “It is more difficult to give money away intelligently than to earn it in the first place”.

Bond Dickinson provides an integrated team of legal experts and tax specialists who work together with financial advisors, such as myself, in our subsidiary firm Bond Dickinson Wealth. We aim to make things as easy as possible for current and would-be social investors and philanthropists in the region. We can provide a package of philanthropy-related services, with legal, tax and financial planning experts all working in tandem.

So perhaps charitable giving is already part of your financial strategy but you want to look at ways of being more strategic. Maybe you are interested in doing more in this area but don’t know where to start. Or maybe you are formally involved with a charity as a trustee and are unsure about whether more integration between your advisers could yield better results for your cause.

In such situations, do get in touch to discuss how we can help.

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17

LUXE LIFE

GORDON STEEL

Ever since Gordon’s first play Dead Fish won a Fringe First at the Edinburgh International Fringe Festival in 1993 he has been writing and directing professionally. His plays include, Like a Virgin (which gets studied for GCSE), Dead Fish, Studs and Albert Nobbs. His newly formed Steelworks Theatre Company last year staged his latest play, Grow Up Grandad to great acclaim.

Gordon has also taught and lectured performing arts for over thirty years. Mark Benton, Daniel Casey, Dean John Wilson, Neil Grainger and Jess Daley, are some of the students who have gone on to forge successful careers in the industry.

Gordon presently writes and teaches privately from his Eaglescliffe home where he lives with his wife Glenda. He has three children, Rebecca, Jack and Hannah and is a season ticket holder at Middlesbrough Football Club.

LUXE PEOPLE >> Obviously my family play a huge part in my life.

I have three wonderful children Rebecca, Jack and Hannah of whom I am immensely proud.

My wife Glenda is my soul mate. And my brother Geoff is my best friend.

LUXE PLACES >> For a weekend > We had a caravan in Cockermouth in the Lake District for many years.

At the time Glenda and I were both teachers so at every opportunity we would head off to our caravan with the children. Indeed we spent all our summer holidays there. Our Hannah was six when she walked up Scafell Pike.

A long holiday > I can’t remember the last time we did a really long holiday. Our matron of honour at our wedding has lived in Barbados for twenty or so years so I suppose I would like to go and spend some time there. I also went to summer camp in America in New Hampshire for a number of years in my youth and more recently my son followed in my footsteps. Even at this old age I keep promising myself that one day I will return to Camp Robin Hood (I know) on the banks of Lake Ossipee for one long summer. Maybe next year!

A treat > I would love to take Glenda to Quebec.

I visited it when I was at camp and keep promising to take her one-day. Maybe next year!

LUXE RELAX >> Best food > I love a Sunday roast. I don’t think there is a meal that can touch it.

Best wine > I do like a good Rioja.

Favourite restaurant > Difficult one. I don’t remember restaurants as much as specific meals or occasions with special memories.

Crab sandwiches at The Ship in Low Newton after a walk on the beach or a game of golf at Dunstanburgh is always a bit special and I do enjoy wandering through Yarm for a morning coffee followed by a delicious ice-cream at Sundaes. Oh and of course any food cooked by that wonderful chef Matty Brown is always a joy.

Perfect weekend > With all the family in a rented cottage in the Lake District or on the Northumberland Coast.

Downtime means > Going to watch Middlesbrough with my brother Geoff. My late father had us indoctrinated into the Middlesbrough family when we were very young

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and we have been obsessed ever since. I had my first season ticket when I was seven years old at the old Ayresome Park. I can still smell the cigar and pipe smoke that used to fill the South Stand. And I still believe that one day we will win the Premier League. Maybe next year.

Best telly > Without doubt watching the Ryder Cup when Europe trounce the Americans.

Best book > I supposes the exuberance of youth is something you tend to lose a bit when you get older but I remember as a young boy being terribly excited every time I picked up a new Biggles book.

Best sounds > The usual I suppose. Hearing my children laugh always warms my heart, as does hearing seagulls as you approach the coast and thunderous applause at the end of a play that I have been involved with.

LUXE SHOP >> Never been high on my list, shopping. I think the last time I went was to John City and Western in Middlesbrough. Must go back some time.

I do love book shops and can spend hours browsing and looking at books I keep promising to buy.

Best shopping city > I love Rome, but tend to buy mainly copious amounts of red wine and food.

Favourite shop > My son works at M&S, so I suppose I should say there.

Luxe retail treat > I’d love a new set of golf clubs.

Best buy > I recently bought a new printer for my computer that I managed to get online for £99 when all the large retail computer shops I visited were selling it for £199. I love a good bargain.

LUXE PARTY >> A memorable night out > With Glenda and my family sharing good food, drink and laughter.

Perfect party > Our Rebecca’s last birthday party in our back garden was a bit special. She works down in Eton and consequently the local hotels were inundated and our house had bodies strewn everywhere. A great party.

Next Party > I would love to host a party and invite Juninho so I could thank him. Maybe next year.

Favourite item of clothing > A pair of shorts.

At the first hint of spring, my shorts are dusted down and stay with me until the autumn.

Dinner date > Eating food, drinking wine on a sun-kissed or moonlit terrace over looking the ocean with the Duchess. Heaven. Maybe next month. ‘Glenda, book a holiday!’

YOUR LUXE THING IN LIFE >> I suppose the end of the opening night of a new play (that has worked). The sense of relief is indescribable.

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RIDE FOR LIFE

ON THE HOOF Saddle stories with Deborah Smith Our new equestrian columnist

Deborah has been involved with horses in one way or another since a very young age. Her grandfather used to breed black shire horses for Young’s brewery and grey shires for Mann, Crossman & Paulin, while her mother fitted in her own horses and riding around her dairy farming and her pedigree Guernsey herd.

Until a few years ago, Deborah would have classed herself as a ‘happy hacker’ and enthusiastic spectator. But since the family grew up and she had more time to spare, Deborah decided to ride more seriously and compete.

Deborah lives in Satley, County Durham with her husband Dave (part time stable boy and self-appointed head lad), her two horses, Oliver and Strider, two border collies, Max and Jess, Buzz the jack russell and two very elderly guinea pigs. She works full time and runs her own company Promodo.

Her horseback regime means training three times a week with Louise Smales BHSI, BE Accredited Trainer &and List 3 Dressage Judge at Cornsay. She also has regular lessons and clinics with Charlotte Ridley BHSII, at Park End, Simonburn and Claire Dryden BHSII, who is based in Cleveland.

2017: the year ahead

With some welcome downtime between Christmas and New Year, I took the opportunity to sit and plan my (horse) year ahead. 2016 was my first full season ‘grass roots’ eventing with my young horse Oliver so I now have a better idea of the events I’m aiming for this year.

I’m a great one for being organised and having a plan and writing up a few lists so, with Buzz on my lap, and surrounded by fixtures lists, I was in my element.

Back in December I went to the London Olympia London International Horse Show - a perennial Christmas family favourite, to watch the brilliant world class performances. It was a particularly special week as double Olympic Dressage champion Valegro was retired from competition at the event by rider Charlotte Dujardin and co-owner Carl Hester.

Horse-friendly hang-outs The Derwent Walk Inn Ebchester Chelmsford Arms Ebchester The Fox and Hounds Coalburns The Anchor Inn Whittonstall Keel Row Seaton Delaval The Duke of Wellington Inn Newton If you do visit any of these with your horse do let me know how you get on!

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It was a fitting climax to what has been a really exciting year for all our equestrian teams as well as all the grooms, vets, and farriers, who behind the scenes work tirelessly keep our elite horses fit and well.

For me, I am trying to limit my ambitions to more realistic levels for 2017 (although I do quite fancy a crack at a Puissance sometime!).

But even at my level there is still plenty to go at, with so much going on in the North East and North Yorkshire.

We are spoilt for choice with top-class venues and facilities, hosting competitions, training and clinics/demos for riders of all ages and all levels.

Living in Weardale close to the A66, A68 and A69, I’m a regular visitor to West Park Equestrian, Holmside Hall and Park End, plus I head over to Richmond, Northallerton and Breckenbrough and then further afield to Cumbria and the Borders.

As someone who works in that slightly nebulous field of brand and marketing, I’m hugely impressed with Douglas and Lucinda Weymouth who organise and run the Cumbrian Horse Trials. In the past few years they have established an annual calendar of family friendly events that are well run and well attended and they have an impressive social media following.

With stunning venues like Warwick Hall, they organise British Eventing competitions as well as their own indoor arena evening and timber trials through the winter.

These are friendly events and so well organised, so for anyone just starting out they are a welcoming introduction to the sport.

Douglas often runs volunteer fence judge training for anyone who wants to be part of horse sport, but without climbing on board as it were.

Like many sports, we are very reliant on volunteers. That means that the weekends I’m not out competing I try to do a bit of volunteering myself - as a way of ‘paying back’.

It’s always fascinating seeing it from the other side, although it still seems to involve another early morning/crack of dawn start.

On the plus side - volunteers are well fed and endless supplies of hot drinks and cakes are passed round.

Those weekends when I’m properly ‘off’ I’m always seeking out new places to hack and for half day or full day rides.

I often take the horse over to the Yorkshire Dales National

Ride social I’m not one for new year’s resolutions but top of the ever-growing list of ‘must dos’ for 2017 is to finally do a pub ride.

The idea of tying your horse up while you have lunch has always appealed to me but I just haven’t got round to trying it.

Having canvassed some ideas from the North East riding community, a hack to The Feathers at Hedley on the Hill is high on the list - it gets such good reviews both for the food and the horse-friendly facilities that it is one of my top must-try destinations for 2017 pony tie-ups.

Park between Kirby Stephen and Sedbergh and ride out across the beautiful Howgill Fells and the Mallerstang Valley.

The horses really seem to benefit from the ‘away from it all’ open spaces and long gallops. The scenery is breathtaking.

As well as endless tracks and trails there are plenty of quiet country lanes and plenty of places to park a waggon or trailer.

We sometimes stay with Alison Sixsmith at Stonetrail (www.stonetrailholidays.com). As well as running a busy riding centre, Alison offers self catering cottages and holiday horse livery. She seems to have hit on the perfect blend of luxury accommodation (human and horse) in an idyllic location. There’s even a hot tub (humans only).

Event diary January & February Typically very quiet months but plenty of point-topoint and national hunt racing on if you fancy wrapping up warm and going to watch some ‘proper racing’.

For anyone fancying a trip further afield (and indoors) there is the International Eventing Forum in February at Hartpury College in Gloucester. www.corbridgeraces.co.uk has local point-to-point fixtures including 8 January Alnwick 22 January Friarshaugh 5 February Alnwick 26 February Corbridge www.goracing.co.uk for NH Racing including for all our local courses www.internationaleventingforum.com for information and tickets for the February event For anyone interested in getting started in riding there is plenty of helpful information on www.hoofride.co.uk

JAN/FEB17

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THE HIGH LIFE

Carnival, Dubai

LIVING IT UP with Varsha Sehgal New year, new sights, sounds and shops

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Coya, Dubai THRILLED BY >> Recently I took my nine year old son and his friends to Exit on Westgate Road. It’s a live adventure game and having no expectations at all and dreading the madness that is normally part of any playdate, I was thrilled to witness the boys really engaging with the challenge and giving it their intellectual best to beat the clock by twenty seven seconds!

They were buzzing for hours later - in fact so much so that I too want to give it a go now!

TRAVELLED TO >> As a regular visitor I have witnessed Dubai rise from rubble to looming skyscrapers over the last fifteen years. A major stop-off point whether one is travelling from the east or west, it is an effervescent city that is changing constantly and so instead of including every must-do, below are a few new additions to the skyline that I visited during my recent stay which I believe are worth a mention: Coya: the laid back and buzzing vibe straight out of Peru that has titillated the senses in Mayfair London is now doing the circuit at the Four Seasons in Dubai. The Pez Limón, Ensalada de Maíz and Arroz Nikkei are unmissable palate teasers!

Hendricks Bar, Dubai Hendricks Bar: dark wood panelled walls, plush leather and velvet seating in deep hues of purple all add to the moodiness of this place which has the colonial feel of an old members’ club. A trolley service of the finest gin infusions, a cigar lounge and gregarious crowds make it a fascinating watering hole.

Carnival: offering Indian cuisine with a gastronomic/fusion

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twist, Carnival has injected innovation and creativity successfully into a culinary skill that is otherwise steeped in tradition. Colourful and modern interiors, delicious cocktails and most definitely the best chicken biryani outside of India!

Atelier Perfumery: perfumery maybe the domain of the French but it’s biggest consumer by far is the Arab world.

Whether it is burning blocks of pure Oud in a bakhoor to fragrance your home or the finest oils to perfume your person, Atelier Perfumery believe perfumery is an artform and aims to educate it’s clients. The collection of the most exquisite and redolent notes of the rarest bouquets is impressive to say the least.

Jose Eber LaLoge: lavish and unashamedly indulgent, catering to the who’s who: expect to have your hair done sat next to Helena Christensen or a member of the Al Maktoum family.

The diamond facial is also a good reason to pop in.

TASTED >> A blackberry & mint spritzer with Loch Ryan native oysters at Scott’s, Mayfair before you hit the shops on Mount Street is an unbeatable start to a perfect day in London.

Timeless, elegant and oh-so English it resonates with the charm of its illustrious past.

The yellowtail and salmon sashimi, seared scallops and baked aubergine finished off with the baked chocolate and salted caramel fondant are infinitely good.

TEMPTED BY >> As I had predicted some three seasons ago, in fact since his very first collection as Creative Director for Gucci, Alessandro Michele has been the man to watch.

Temptations galore - and having disgracefully succumbed to most, I now have my eyes set on the studded leather belt with a metal bow. Fashion week is just round the corner and I have no doubt Alessandro’s creations will be just as seductive as ever.

TRIED ON >> Wearing bright lipsticks can make you feel quite self-aware, however in the right shade they can be empowering.

A slightly bolder version of their Coachella is Charlotte Tilbury’s newest addition Miranda May. Now available at Fenwick it is the most delicious coral lipstick out there.

THINKING ABOUT >> Recently I have been revisiting old classics and the joy of reacquainting myself with old rogues and drama queens still bears the same excitement as it did in my teens. Heathcliff evoked a rainbow of emotions again as I devoured the pages of Wuthering Heights. Dante’s Inferno is currently moving along nicely, which makes me think Sense and Sensibility could be next!

JAN/FEB17

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CUDDLE CLOTHES

SNUG STYLE Kick-back in luxe layers and revel in that cosy hygge feeling with chunky knits, laid-back loungewear and fabulous faux-fur

Eileen Fisher Ankle Length Trousers £225; Eileen Fisher Top £245, both Fenwick Newcastle 24

JAN/FEB17

CUDDLE CLOTHES

See By Chloe Tie Slit Sleeves Sweatshirt £165; Fenwick Newcastle JAN/FEB17

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CUDDLE CLOTHES

Hallhuber t-shirt £29; Gray & Willow Lilla Lux Jogger Trouser £59; both House of Fraser at intu Metrocentre; Yves Soloman Encharpe Fur Scarf £395; Jules B Yarm

Annette Gorz Chunky Knit Cape £249.95; Jules B Yarm 26

JAN/FEB17

Gray & Willow Lana Lace Cami ÂŁ29; Hallhuber Hooded Cardigan with Belt ÂŁ99, both House of Fraser at intu Metrocentre JAN/FEB17

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CUDDLE CLOTHES

Crea Cropped Knit Cardi £149.95; Crea Jersey Trousers £85; both Jules B Yarm 28

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Duffy Longline Polo Neck Jumper £349.95; Yves Soloman Knit Fur Gilet £365; both Jules B Yarm

Vince Scrunch Ankle Leggings £145; Vince Drape Front Wo Chalet Cardi £330; By Malene Birger Malene Dawn Vest £35; all Flannels at intu Metrocentre 30

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Photography: Kevin Gibson, www.kgphotography.co.uk Makeup: Charlotte Tilbury, Fenwick Newcastle Models: Hollie Scorer

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BATHROOM & KITCHEN

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ON TREND FOR 2017

STYLE SWIPE Get ready for SS17 with wardrobe updates that will keep working all year long…

This season the 70s continues to be a key influencer in both fashion and design so I’ve picked out some pieces that will help you work this decade into your everyday look.

The era’s most fashionable stars combined relaxed bohemian style with the glamour of an all-out disco outfit - think Diana Ross and Farrah Fawcett.

>> >> >> >> >>

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For SS17 cropped flares are a big trend, add a relaxed hem and frayed detailing to really get that 70s look. I’ve styled a pair of Frame jeans with a striped round neck jumper and a glamorous faux-fur bomber, both by Paul Smith. Bombers are the must-have jacket style for this season so it’s worth investing in one now as this trend is set to become bigger and bigger.

To finish the look I’ve added a new-in Darley bag by

Mulberry and a felt fedora, also by Paul Smith. I’ve layered bright orange, rich burgundy and dusty pink to create a contrast between muted and bold colours; this is a great way to add a splash of colour into your wardrobe just in time for spring. All available at Fenwick, Newcastle.

Catherine Newton is Head of Womenswear at Fenwick Newcastle.

Faux-Fur Bomber Jacket Paul Smith £299 Striped Knit Paul Smith £195 Pink Felt Fedora Paul Smith £85 Le Crop Mini Boot Jeans FRAME £260 Small Darley Bag Mulberry £525

JAN/FEB17

BE A FOX

So we say hello to a new year but I’m feeling quite nostalgic and just a little sad penning this column and looking back at 2016.

What a year it’s been, not all good. We said goodbye to more than a few legends like David Bowie and Prince and some great Brits like Terry Wogan and Victoria Wood, and the list goes on.

The shocks didn’t stop there with Brexit dividing the nation and who ever saw Donald Trump coming as the new President elect?

It just goes to show that anything can happen, well at least Honey ‘G’ didn’t take the X Factor crown, a small consolation I know but a good one none the less.

Meanwhile in camp Hooker & Young there was some good news; we scooped Salon Group of The Year and received two nominations at the British Hairdressing Awards - proving that we know how to do it ‘up North’.

In terms of fashion and trends, 2016 was the year that saw the rise of grey – the tone became one to strive for rather than hide. Silver power is definitely on the rise.

Who’d have thought that one of the most asked for colours in salons this year has been the silver fox? Sported by many celebrities and top models, grey hair has become the coolest colour of the moment and although tones are changing for spring summer, the trend shows no sign of slowing down.

Soft hues and moody greys create a natural palette of ‘tone on tone’ colour which works well with either sharp graphic cuts or soft, longer lengths with movement.

On our gorgeous model we’ve opted for a soft dove grey which still has the shimmer and luminosity of a bright blonde but with that super cool on-trend look.

It’s important to note that achieving and maintaining these looks takes a deal of commitment but well worth making it a 2017 resolution I’d say.

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

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JAN/FEB17

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

LOSE THE LINES

Time to fill?

If Botox is a needle too far for you, the secret of smooth might be Mesotherapy.

Kathryn Armstrong fills you in When a new year turns we tend to take a long, hard look in the mirror. Often we’re faced with the aftermath of a heavy party season; dehydrated skin which is desperate for a drink (ideally not gin), sagging jowls and party-induced laughter lines.

Effective action is required to re-boot the skin, give a glow and get you prepped for that half term skiing break!

The smoothing solutions of stuff like Botox aren’t for everyone. Something with similar effects and incorporating a skin revitalisation therapy needs to tick the box for the needle-averse.

And its name? Skeyndor Mesotherapy. Sounds techy, yes. But basically it means ‘filling in the gaps’. The treatment and the products used work to plump out lines for a smoother skin finish.

These can be lines on the face, the hands, even the stomach.

Forehead and jowl lines are obvious contenders but it is also used to tame stretch marks or even act as a non-invasive tummy tuck.

We head for the treatment at the Saks Beauty Salon in Gosforth High Street. How it’s explained in easy-speak is that you imagine the skin cells as a brick wall – there’s grouting in between which holds a wall steady – once that starts to crumble then the bricks start to sag and the wall weakens.

What you need to do is re-build that wall, firm it up and strengthen it again. Doing the trick is Hyaluronic Acid which gets to cell level to smooth and firm lines and wrinkles. Smoothing devices are used to pass current into the skin at different depths which lead to a noticeable lifting sensation.

You begin with a hyper-efficient skin analysis with results analysed and recorded on an iPad chart right in front of you. This is then emailed to you so you can see the changes as you have a series of treatments and whether they improve.

A probe is placed on the skin and this records hydration, wrinkles, pores, acne and spots.

It tells me my skin needs moisture, retains less fluid and is less elastic – therefore likely to develop wrinkles. Not what you want to hear.

The treatment that follows this analysis works on the basis that effective plumping ingredients are delivered straight into the mesoderm — the middle layer of the skin — using electric pulses.

This needle-free option puts ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, collagen and elastin deep into the skin using a wand that emits electric pulses, to deeply hydrate and plump the skin.

It starts with a cleanse and a gentle peel to unclog my pores, then it’s time to get the big guns in – the probes with a gentle current that penetrates the skin, meaning the active ingredients go in deep (that grout in the walls!) .

Two different sizes of probe are used. One has a tiny surface area – like a 5p piece – and this delivers the mesofiller to the deepest level. Another head is attached to the probe - about the size of a £2 coin and this adds in a corrective serum.

They pulse the skin sending gentle currents in – if you’ve got a mouth full of fillings you’ll feel a metallic tingle, but there’s nothing unpleasant, in fact it’s a deeply relaxing treatment.

The result is a definite and noticeable instant lift.

Skin feels smooth and looks perky and bright. It’s a good one for instant rejuvenation and brightening – great for a one-off special occasion or for lasting lift if you have a course of six treatments.

Non-invasive but still effective.

You can also buy treatment products to use at home afterwards and maintain the treatment process.

Meso-filler Facial, £66 Saks Beauty Gosforth 0191 340 0420 www.saks.co.uk/gosforthbeauty

Pre-treatment the skin is analysed with skin probes.

The readings are linked to the therapist’s iPad and sent to the client. This means that the readings and on-going improvements after more treatments - are kept on record and are easy to follow.

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JAN/FEB17

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SMILES!

MOUTH MATTERS WITH ONKAR DHANOYA

Onkar Dhanoya is clinical lead and principal dentist at the Osborne Dental Group. With more than 30 years of dentistry experience, Onkar sits on the board of the Faculty of General Dental Practice and holds a fellowship from the Royal College of Surgeons.

BRUSH UP ON YOUR DENTAL HEALTHCARE IN 2017 >> January is the perfect time of year to make a fresh start with your dental healthcare.

A healthy smile is the very first thing that people notice when they meet somebody new. With this in mind, it’s just as important to adopt a good dental care routine as it is to exercise regularly and to eat a nutritious diet.

As dentists, we see your mouth as being a window to your overall state of health, and we find that patients who step up their efforts to look after their teeth and gums also start to think more carefully about how they’re treating the rest of their body too.

If you work to improve your standard of oral health, you’ll soon see that your whole body will benefit from your choices. So, cut down on sugar to protect your teeth from decay, and you’ll also prevent blood sugar spikes, boost your energy levels, see an improvement in your skin, sleep better, and most likely, lose weight.

If you’d like to make a fresh start with us in 2017, we’ll start by conducting a comprehensive dental assessment, which includes: · · · · · · · ·

Mouth cancer risk assessment and screening Gum check and gum disease risk assessment Tooth decay check and tooth decay risk assessment Tooth wear check X-rays (if required) Jaw joint, muscles and neck glands check Cheek, tongue and throat check Fillings and dental work check

After we complete your assessment, we’ll provide you with a detailed report, including a fully tailored health and hygiene programme based on your diet, oral hygiene routine, lifestyle, health status and requirements.

So, why not start 2017 off in the right way by putting a healthy smile at the top of your list of New Year’s resolutions!

Osborne Dental Group will shortly be rebranding as Honour Health: Phone Osborne Dental will become Honour Health Jesmond 0191 281 3913 Ponteland Dental will become Honour Health Ponteland 01661 821 412 Stanley Dental will become Honour Health Stanley 01207 232 725 Website www.osbornedental.com, www.pontelanddental.com and www.stanleydental.com will all become www.honourhealth.co.uk

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

40

HOT PROPERTY

Haircare giant, Aveda, launches destination blow-dry bar inside Fenwick’s much-loved Beauty Hall. Jessica Laing stops by…

We live in a fast world. A big old place in which technology can connect you to friends and family in far-off lands in moments. A world in which smartphones can answer just about every question ever asked in seconds. Food is fast. The same goes for shopping (all hail ASOS). And now, so is beauty.

Today, the world is also a place in which you can enjoy speedy beauty treats, from midnight manicures to lunchtime massages and breakfast blow-dries, thanks to a huge rise in ‘pop-up’ nail salons, slinky eyebrow bars and now trendy express blow-dry bars.

LA started it, London copied, and now, it seems, the rest of the UK is jumping on the ‘quick-fix’ bandwagon.

Not that it’s a bad thing, of course. In fact, quite the opposite. Take blow-dry bars; these affordable outlets are revolutionising the world of haircare, providing style-conscious, but time-poor, beauty-lovers a place to give their locks some fast, professional loving without the faff of having to book out precious hours of their day to visit their local hairdressers.

Instead, customers can pick their chosen do - up, down, curls, waves, braids - and walk out with it half an hour later, ready to take on their day (or hit the tiles). Quick turnover is key, but the results are salon-worthy.

Aveda’s blow-dry bars are particularly lovely. I once surrendered to a heavenly hour at the one inside its flagship Covent Garden and very nearly nodded off in the chair. And then again at the basin. There’s just something about the mix of essential oils they use, the way they massage your neck, ears and shoulders while rinsing away the suds, that immediately sends you into a state of sleepy relaxation.

The new, shiny express salon inside Fenwick’s Beauty Hall is the brand’s first retail blow-dry bar - a small space that packs a real punch, bringing the brand’s wealth of hair expertise to the shop floor.

It’s a real treat for on-the-go mane-maintainers - a little haven of calm amidst the near-constant buzz of one of Europe’s largest, glossiest beauty halls.

Guests can stop by for snappy dry styling or sit back and choose from a mini menu of three indulgent blow-dry options, ranging from 25 to 45-minutes long and starting from just £19.

There’s the ‘Renewal’, a quick-fix style and blow-dry session to refresh and revive dry hair (also includes a neck and shoulder massage), the ‘Sensory’, the brand’s signature wash-and-blow with a special ‘calm-down’ ritual and scalp and shoulder rub, and lastly, the ‘Power

Stay Sensory’ - a luxury 45-minute experience including a luxury wash and blow-dry, an aromatic, calming ritual and a stress-busting massage to melt away tension in the head, neck, shoulders and upper back.

I was treated to this one (it’s a hard job, I know) and I can report that getting the full works sure does feel wonderful.

The lovely Anna took care of me (ask for her if you fancy a few giggles by the sink, plenty of girly chat and a really skilled hand), kicking things off with a cool hair consultation to find out more about my long locks, how I look after them and how I prefer to style it, before she got her hands on me for a few minutes of relaxation.

Aveda’s known for its massage rituals - or an ‘aroma sensory moment of calm’ as they’re known in the salons.

Mine involved a few heady spritzes of its balancing body mist - a fusion of pure essential oils, like sandalwood, orange and geranium, to help balance the ‘pleasure chakra’, boost alertness and ‘unblock’ emotions.

Combined with a little guided breathing and one hell of a head massage (lots of soothing temple-rubbing and generous pressure around the scalp to banish tension in the skull), it totally put me at ease; the smells were spa-like and dreamy and I felt immediately lighter, like a weight had been lifted.

After that, we moved things over to the basin for a good, energising wash.

My hair is fine and tends to fall flat after styling, so we foamed things up with Aveda’s Pure Abundance shampoo and conditioner to encourage volume, keep oily roots at bay and moisturise the ends. So effective, I took them both home.

The blow-dry finished things off, during which Anna mixed and muddled a few styling products - a bit of thickening tonic for height, a tiny amount of liquid gel to help keep the bounce in place and a dusting of dry shampoo for texture - before adding some loose, beachy curls for an effortless, just-out-of-bed wave that lasted until early afternoon the next day. Impressive.

It’s worth noting that nice extras, like moisturising hair masks, can be added on for an extra fiver and regular blow-dry goers can pick up a loyalty card and collect stamps towards a free appointment (every sixth blow-dry is free). And for the avid frizz-fighting fans, you’ll soon be able to opt in for a monthly subscription for unlimited blow-dries. The fast and furious answer to smooth, luscious locks all year long. www.fenwick.co.uk

JAN/FEB17

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ME

GO GIRL >>

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WELCOME TO SHAPING FUTURES

Pilates & reformer

D u r h a m C i t y ’s Unique Wellness & Fitness Studio

R e s i s t a n c e Tr a i n i n g

Yo g a & M e d i t a t i o n Cardio & P e r s o n a l Tr a i n i n g Physiotherapy Nutrition Mindfulness

Membership packaging tailored to individual needs

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JAN/FEB17

Shaping Futures // Hawthorne Terrace // Durham // DH1 4EL

0191 386 4865 W: www.shapingfutures.co.uk // E: Info@shapingfutures.co.uk 41

STAND TALL

FITNESS! WITH LEILA BRAMWELL

IF YOU COULD BOTTLE UP PILATES AND PUT IT IN A PILL, IT WOULD BE THOUGHT OF AS A WONDER DRUG Many studies show that individuals doing Pilates exercises correctly can significantly decrease back pain, postural problems or stiff joints. So it’s a wonder why people still are resistant to making Pilates their first option in decreasing their pain and increasing their core strength and flexibility.

Pilates is a prescription that helps to fix the body and de-stress the mind. However doing classical Pilates in its truest form is hard. Often people get quite a shock especially when they are used to contemporary Pilates or less intense classes. This is why its important to go to classes with levels. At Shaping Futures we have four levels in our Mat Pilates classes Starting with Level 1 – Fundamentals which anyone can go to as often as they need until they are ready to move up to level 2 – Beginners. From level 2 they get to start learning the Classical sequence and it’s amazing to see people progress in strength, fitness, flexibility and confidence. Level 3- Intermediate really does start to get tough even for a well-conditioned person. Level 4 is fast-paced and really is hardcore. I only allow people in this class who I know are very competent in technique.

In our very popular Reformer small group classes I teach up to five people on Reformer machines.

Each person has their own machine in class and these classes also have levels.

If I have someone coming in to see me privately in my ‘Back Clinic’ for the first time, I assess that person verbally and physically. I then know what that person needs and certain exercises I need to avoid. I then start to introduce the Classical Sequence often on Reformer to begin as I can clearly see how the body moves and reacts and this also highlights any imbalances. From this I can add their personal prescription to the last quarter of the session. The prescription helps to fix the area or areas that need fixing. Most of the prescription exercises are done on a ladder barrel, high or low chair or spine corrector. Leaving the client straighter, in significantly less pain and a lot happier.

I now teach Classical Pilates as when I retrained classically on mat and the entire Pilates system I noticed a dramatic effect on my clients. Clients I had taught for years suddenly got rid of their niggles and their bodies transformed with amazing results.

From seeing it with my own eyes I have now turned Shaping Futures into a Classical Pilates centre with daily classes. I run a men’s only class, which is very popular and back pain six-week programmes.

In health and happiness Leila Bramwell Master Pilates Instructor, Back Specialist and Trainer Shaping Futures – Durham City www.shapingfutures.co.uk www.thebackclinicdurham.co.uk

42

Saving face

The posture-enhancing properties of face and fitness guru Marja Putkisto are putting a spring in the step of Tyne Valley devotees. Kathryn Armstrong joins a masterclass with Marja

A church hall in the Tyne Valley is transformed into a haven of Finnish calm as health guru Marja Putkisto takes a deep breath and encourages us to stand tall and think posture.

Finnish Marja, with her neat blonde bob and bendy body exudes calm and an aura of wellbeing. She is 56 and looks a couple of decades younger. So, you figure, if she is the Putkisto programme, then it certainly works.

Her programme is famed internationally and Marja has worked with celebrities and the sporting elite. Method Putkisto is about body alignment, posture and the lengthening of muscles so the body’s structure (skelton) is held in place as it was intended to be.

Time spent bent over keyboards and crushed on to couches as we watch our screens mean that few of us ever really stretch properly.

If we do, then those muscles that support our bones are lengthened and the entire body functions better.

That’s it in a nutshell. Instructor Sharon Lamb (pictured top right with Marja), from the Tyne Valley, has taken up the cause and seen the benefits of the Putkisto from all sides. She now teaches the programme, has joined Marja on a host of instruction courses and delights in being able to bring the woman herself to the church hall in Wylam for a workshop of wonderment on an autumn Saturday.

Sharon works with men and women on the Putkisto method who have often come to her as a last resort after trying other programmes to combat illness or discomfort related to posture.

Or, it can be something such as wanting to improve

posture in the run up to an event like a wedding – so as bride’s mum or the bride themself, they look their best in photographs.

At the day-long workshop in Wylam, Marja and her team highlight the value of improved posture to the participants with measured movements and body alignments.

At one point when you’re walking around the hall, head held high (imagining you are being pulled by a string), thinking you’re doing it right, Marja pushes her hand into your breastbone so you stand taller still – it is about taking the moves to the next level, stretching further and higher. And it can be less than gentle.

Maintaining these moves as you go about your daily business is another matter – but the thought that you should does stay with you long afterwards.

At another point, you are asked to visualise your skull balancing on your spine (Just think of how a skeleton looks) and then let it balance – rather than you holding it there – it is tricky and makes you think of very slight transfer of movement and control. It is a fascinating approach to the complexity of the body’s structure and how movements that we control can direct posture and correct bad habits.

Sharon explains: “Many people make an initial enquiry because of injury or extreme discomfort, it is often through word of mouth and I’ve been told many times I am a last resort but it is the holistic benefits that I feel are so important.

“I just wish that the clients had found me before their injury because then they might be able to avoid the injury in the first place!

“I have worked with clients aged from 15 through to 87

JAN/FEB17

STAND TALL

So what is Method Putkisto?

It realigns, reshapes and redefines the body: Stretching boosts flexibility, core strength and improves posture.

MP is suitable and challenging for everyone: all ages and fitness levels: top sport athletes as well as fitness enthusiasts. MP has also been acknowledged as a great method for the rehabilitation of injuries, back pain, joint pain, pre/after operations.

How does Method Putkisto work?

Muscle tightness and shortness force our body out of alignment. We stretch these tight, short muscles - in conjunction with deep core stabilization- to free the body to return to its neutral position.

and have been able to make a marked difference which I find really interesting and fulfilling. This highlights to me the importance of taking care of the whole structure of your body - it has to last you your whole life!”

Sharon talks about some of the successes her clients have experienced:

strengthening of his hip flexors. When playing golf, engaging the core stabilises his golf swing so that even at his age he says he is improving.

The canal boat enthusiast

The cricketer

“Incorporating MP principles into how I use my body has helped make the heavy duty tasks in our garden or opening and closing canal locks when on our canal boat much easier and I can do these now without injuring myself ”

Feels his bowling has improved now that he understands how to stabilise his body and use his arm independently and more accurately.

The young mum A young woman has been supported with pre-wedding posture work, through pregnancy and then post pregnancy and beyond. Sharon worked with bridesmaids and parents of the bride and groom with Method Putkisto Face School.

The sportsman Has found is much easier (despite being older) to run between the wickets whilst playing cricket following

JAN/FEB17

The Putkisto programme is not one offering an easy fix but is one that is a ‘recipe for life’ when it comes to using the body in the right way to maximize core strength and offering the ultimate flexibility.

Sharon runs regular sessions as well as one-to-one programmes. She also participates in Marja’s workshops in Finland and Turkey.

Contact Sharon on sharon.lamb4@btinternet.com Tel: 01661 852688 / 07778 967113

Results can be measured.

The physical measurements meet scientific requirements. Your improved muscle balance will result in greater freedom of movement, an improved sense of wellbeing and health as well as increased energy levels and can be seen in the way you move.

How often do I need to practise?

You will feel some body-changing effects immediately.

With regular practise these results can become permanent. Once a week - slows down the deterioration of loss of agility and balance. Twice a week - you begin to improve overall.

How it is different from yoga and pilates?

It works on opening and lengthening key muscles which in turn help to open and lengthen the body. It focuses on the small but integral muscles that when stretched can help to realign and ultimately reshape the body.

It acts as a bridge that can help achieve the full benefit from Pilates or yoga.

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GOING LIVE

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GOING LIVE

Jayne Secker broadcasts to millions as Sky News’ daytime presenter but in the North East she’s happily known as ‘Kathy Secker’s daughter’.

She reckons her late mum would be ‘beyond proud’ to see her hosting the glitzy RTS awards in Newcastle in February, as she tells Kathryn Armstrong

Mother-daughter making the news

ayne Secker spends most mornings behind the presenters’ desk at Sky News. A familiar, reliable face who might at a moment’s notice be sent off to report a breaking news story such as the Charlie Hebdo attack in Paris or Nice’s Bastille Day terror.

War zones are familiar territory; she witnessed the ‘shock and awe’ bombardment of Iraq from a US warship and was inches away from death in Gaza, breaking a leg as she dived for cover after a bomb blast.

By comparison, the day we speak belongs to another life. Blissfully conflict-free. Jayne is enjoying a pre-Christmas day off, dedicated to seeing her two boys, Jake, eight and Seb, six, in their school nativity.

Always a teary one, the year’s performance has been all the more poignant for Jayne without her mum Kathy there to share it.

“The boys called her ‘Glam-ma’; she was a very glamorous, amazing grandma.”

Kathy Secker died suddenly just before Christmas 2015 at her home in Jesmond, aged just 70. She was a well-known and much-loved television and radio presenter in the region for decades and her death caused a genuine out-pouring of grief.

Kathy was a presenter at a time when you could count the number of TV channels on one hand, when regional television ‘was huge’ and when a voice on the radio was counted as a friend.

Jayne, now 44, had grown up with a mum who was a real North East celebrity, a woman who, she remembers, was mobbed like Posh and Becks are today, when she went out and about.

In the 1970s Kathy had gone from being a model – ‘the face of the North East’ – to being taken up by Tyne Tees TV as a continuity announcer then news presenter, a career path which seems incredulous today.

“Regional TV was such a huge thing in those days”, recalls Jayne.

“We couldn’t go anywhere without people standing and pointing and staring at mum.

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She was very much the girl next door. She grew up in Bedlington, went to the local school, was from a working class family.

“Her warmth really came through. When people called her radio request show, she was the one who answered the phone to them.”

The warmth and love felt for Kathy was obvious after her shock passing. Jayne remembers the comfort she took from it.

“I usually rang mum on the way home from work. I called her and she didn’t pick up.

My brother had had a call from one of mum’s friends to say that she hadn’t turned up for a lunch they’d arranged.

“The police came round and found her. It was desperately sad and a massive shock.

I came up and when we announced her death the tributes were really moving – on radio and TV. “She was a fixture in peoples’ lives and it was almost like they were in a state of shock too. I remember watching her on TV from being four or five and not thinking anything strange in that – it was just her job.

“But she meant so much to people – at BBC Newcastle (where Kathy was still broadcasting a request show), they wrote down all the messages people sent in or rang in, expressing how they felt, and put them in a book for us. That was so lovely.”

At Kathy’s funeral in Newcastle the region’s best-known broadcasting faces were there to pay tribute.

Many of them will be there to see Jayne follow in her mum’s footsteps in February when she presents the regional Royal

I was in Gaza and there was a bomb blast right next to us, I had to run for cover and dived behind a wall, breaking my leg

Television Society Awards in Newcastle.

Always a glamorous affair, Jayne remembers how much Kathy enjoyed presenting and attending the awards.

“Mum loved a bit of bling and I remember how she loved these awards. She loved dressing up and this was always a great opportunity for a night of glamour. I know she would be beyond proud that I am doing it”, says Jayne.

No doubt more than proud too of Jayne’s achievements as a journalist.

“She was always massively supportive of what we wanted to do ‘whatever you do, just try to be the best at it’, she’d say.

“Having said that, she actively discouraged me from going into the industry! I loved writing though, and went to do film and media studies at Stirling University.”

From there Jayne did work experience on newspapers and radio in the North East, becoming a BBC trainee then working in Oxford and Bristol before joining Sky in 2000.

“There was a point when I was presenting the late bulletins on HTV and mum was doing them in the North East – I remember thinking, this must be a unique thing, mother-daughter both doing it!”

Jayne’s career at Sky saw her work as a foreign correspondent for ten years, frequently in perilous war zones.

On the road as a correspondent she reported extensively from the Middle East, covering the Israeli / Hezbollah conflict, the withdrawal of settlers from Gaza, the Israeli election and the death of the spiritual leader of Hamas, Sheik Ahmed Yassin.

Jayne also covered the Iraq war broadcasting live from the deck of the USS Shiloh as tomahawk missiles were fired from the vessel into Baghdad the night the war began.

As a furiously driven correspondent, it’s only now, as a mother herself, she can imagine what her own mum went through when she was away.

“You have to go through hostile

environment training before you go off – what I didn’t know was that as your employer, Sky gets in touch with your family beforehand to let them know procedures if anything bad was to happen.

“I was inside Iraq and Basra for two-and-ahalf weeks and away for two-and-a-half months. I saw tomahawks flattening Baghdad – later, I found out my parents hadn’t slept at all while I was away.

“I didn’t think of the stresses my parents were under, they never let me know they were worried. From being a teenager I’d taken off back-packing and always had a sense of adventure – they were dead proud.”

She’s travelled through Vietnam and Cambodia on the trail of Gary Glitter’s young victims as well as reporting on child mortality in Liberia and illegal logging in Brazil.

In 2005 she decamped to California for five months to cover the Michael Jackson child abuse trial.

By 2006 though, life on the front line was >>

Jayne, with her glamorous mum Kathy Secker on her wedding day

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GOING LIVE

I glimpsed my own reality and it came home to me that maybe it was time for a change of direction. I wanted to settle down and have kids taking its toll on Jayne’s health, mentally and physically.

“I was in Gaza and there was a bomb blast right next to us, I had to run for cover and dived behind a wall, breaking my leg. I had never felt vulnerable before, never been that close to a bomb.

“I glimpsed my own reality and it came home to me that maybe it was time for a change of direction. I wanted to settle down and have kids.”

Jayne suffered from PTSD after her experiences and had counselling to deal with the trauma.

After time out she returned to the presenting role on Sky’s morning news programme and the Week in Review show.

By no means a soft option, the rolling news programme offered Jayne the adrenaline kick she thrives on. And the ability to take a moment for her boys’ nativity.

She conducted the first interview that was broadcast live on television with Tim Peake from the International Space Station.

Jayne also helped anchor Sky News’

coverage of numerous general elections and the Brexit referendum. She was live as the result was announced in Manchester and hosted a live studio debate bringing together those who voted for either leave or remain. She also anchored Sky’s coverage of Theresa May meeting the Queen and becoming Prime Minister.

“It can be a lot more nerve-wracking live in studio”, says Jayne.

“You can get an adrenaline rush as quickly as you do when you’re under fire. You have to be verbally sharp and switched-on.

“When the Bastille Day attacks happened in Nice we were reporting live from 6am for fourteen hours solid, until 8pm. It was amazing to be the first British broadcasters there – but that happens with Sky a lot.”

There are moments too when she is at the mercy of the huge television audience thanks to a vociferous social media following: “Viewers are forgiving but they don’t think twice about tweeting Sky about my outfit!”

And they took to Twitter with a vengeance

following Jayne’s grilling of Bob Geldof in an interview about the Band Aid 30 single.

Geldof responded to Jayne’s comment that the single had been criticised by charities working in Africa with “B…….ks”, the second time he’d used the word on-air.

There was no option but to end the interview and a predictable social media furore ensued: “I got a lot of people saying ‘how dare you criticise Saint Bob?’”, says Jayne.

“But it was a legitimate question and I was hoping he would give me an answer – I got a huge amount of grief on Twitter.

“But it means people are watching and engaging! I’ve got the hide of a rhino and it’s my job to be devil’s advocate and challenge people on their point of view.”

Skills which make up that impressive CV, but Jayne remains the North East girl at heart – still chuffed to bits to be asked to follow in mum’s footsteps presenting the RTS awards in Newcastle.

And to take on Kathy’s charity role. Grace

House is the purpose-built respite centre that was founded in Sunderland by Kathy.

It opened just a few months after her death and is a fine legacy to her.

“She was very much the driving force behind it – raising £5.5 million to get it up and running”, says Jayne, who attended the opening with her brother and family.

“She came up with the idea but never saw it fully opened. There’s a tree planted for her in the garden – that place, to look after children, to give families a breather, really was a dream come true for mum, I am dead proud of her.

“After she died I had to think, she got to 70, had a great life, two children and grandchildren, was a super mum – she would be chuffed with that.”

Reporting on Michael Jackson trial - 2005.

Jayne lived out in California for the duration.

On the Amazon reporting on illegal logging.

www.gracehouse.co.uk Tickets for the Royal Television Society regional awards on February 25 at Hilton, NewcastleGateshead available at www.rts.org.uk

Front line: and we’re live from...

In the Gaza strip in 2005. This was when Israel pulled out of the territory.

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In Liberia in 2009 - reporting on child mortality.

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www.ravenkitchendesign.co.uk T: 01670 785722 E: info@ravenkitchendesign.co.uk SHOWROOM: New Kennels, Blagdon Estate, Northumberland NE13 6DB

PLAYDATES

WELCOME!

Dream on small people - hide away from the cold and let Nina be your playmate This issue of Little Luxe is dedicated to indoor play. We’re hiding from the cold and making our own warmth with role play, top toys and free range clothing! Play is the work of Little Luxes and it deserves to be taken seriously. I therefore dedicate this month’s column to imagination, dreaming and exploring!

Love, Little Luxe x FEBRUARY HALF TERM MONDAY 20 – FRIDAY 24 FEBRUARY Join the Metrognomes this February half term as they showcase their best cooking skills and demonstrations in Sherbet’s Kitchen!

SAY HELLO TO BYRON Visit Byron in the Qube for some of the best burgers in town. With a great children’s menu – choose a main, side and a drink for only £6.50. Mains include options such as macaroni cheese, chicken nuggets and a mini classic burger. Delicous!

JOIN THE FUN AT NAMCO FUNSCAPE If you’re looking for something to fill your weekend, why not visit Namco Funscape, with everything from Tenpin bowling, arcades and a soft play, it’s the perfect place for all the family to enjoy.

with Nina Robinson

Playtime paradise I’ve been hearing lots of great things about a new place for under-eights called Role Play in South Tyneside. My friends have been raving about it and so have their mums!

I’ve not had a chance to visit yet but my friends Sally and Samuel have given me the lowdown on what makes it so awesome. It’s basically a children’s paradise in Hebburn, with little imaginative play areas including a make believe building site, supermarket, hair salon, fire station, post office and café. In the space of a 90-minute play session you can become everything from a chef to a police officer, you can have a picnic on the grass or take a trip around the driving track. Your imagination is your only limit!

Parents meanwhile can enjoy a coffee in the real-life café while their Little Luxes play to their heart’s content.

Everyone joins the teddy bears’ picnic at the end of the session for a calming story time. Playtime perfection! www.roleplayhebburn.co.uk

N i n a : lo v e s >> Joules coat, House of Fraser, £40.00.

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Rock the play area in a smocked frock!

How gorgeous are these hand smocked, ethically made dresses in star and bunny prints from The Simply Small Co?! The traditionally designed smocked dresses featuring contemporary prints are available from 6months – 6 years and start from £28.99. www.thesimplysmallco.com

N i n a : lo v e s

Lottie!

Have you met Lottie yet? She’s been making quite a stir in the toy world, having been nominated for two Toy of the Year Awards – otherwise known as the Oscars of the toy industry!

The thing that makes Lottie Dolls so special is that they are inspired by real girls and women, with the two award finalists keen scientists too! Stargazer Lottie and Fossil Hunter Lottie are among a range of adventurous character dolls created to encourage kids to be themselves and have fun. Be bold, be brave, BE YOU is Lottie’s mantra and I love it!

Unlike other dolls, Lottie is based on real children. She is modeled on a nine-year-old’s body, wears clothes you’re likely to find in your own wardrobe and isn’t smothered in make-up or dripping in jewellery. She’s the perfect replica Little Luxe.

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LUXE LIFE

AZ HYDER LUXE PEOPLE >> The two most inspirational people in my life have been without doubt my mother and retired business partner Martin Burgess.

My mother has taught me great life lessons that I am still learning today. One of the most important things she has taught me is to spend valuable time with my family.

Her optimism and advice has steered me through the good times as well as challenging times in my life.

Martin has been a close friend and mentor to me allowing our partnership to create one of the largest independent group of Dental Providers in the North East.

LUXE PLACES >> For a weekend > The ideal weekend has to be with the family at Centre Parcs in the Lake District. The rain never puts us off and the kids love the hot tub.

A long holiday > Our favourite destination is Dubai. We just love the atmosphere and the hospitality is second to none.

A quiet villa by the beach is the perfect place to unwind.

The restaurants and beaches are incredible and Wild Wadi water park provides the daily way to pass thed time before evenings spent shopping in the largest mall in the world.

A treat > A night away in London - and enjoying a West End musical. Seeing my four year old daughter Zarah star struck watching ‘Aladdin’ on stage was a very special moment.

LUXE RELAX >> Best food > Nothing beats mid-week fish and chips from one of the oldest chip shops in the region, a stones throw away for us in Norton Village. Lots of salt and vinegar - but I have to be quick because my oldest daughter Saffiya is quick to eat my chips if I’m not watching!

Favourite restaurant > The Crab and Lobster in Asenby. The atmosphere is perfect with a quaint but unique charm.

The Lobster is always cracking and another favourite is their juicy medium cooked steak, with chips of course.

Perfect weekend > My son is studying in Spain so it’s an ideal excuse to visit the wonderful city of Valencia. It has everything you would expect from a city break as well as a great beach and a relaxed, Spanish vibe that’s hard to beat. It boasts a wonderful zoo and sea life facility too!

However, a highlight for me was hiring a Vespa to explore the great scenery with my daughter Aaliya.

Downtime means > My Motorbike. Man and machine is in perfect harmony when riding through Stanhope and Alston in the Durham Dales.

Best telly > I am a Walking Dead addict and it’s something I can binge watch with my son Zak when he comes home.

Best sounds > I am a man from the eighties - so my kids have to suffer Wham, George Micheal and the wonderful Spandau Ballet - all at maximum volume in my car.

LUXE SHOP >> Best shopping city > With shopping malls the size of the average town centre - Dubai gets the vote.

Favourite shop > Zara Man ticks all the boxes - but I struggle to fit into the slim fit trousers!

Luxe retail treat > I love shoes - and a treat is a visit to Jeffery West in Leeds. I have shoes that I bought eight years ago and are as comfortable as the day I bought them.

Best buy > It has to be my iPhone which my wife jokes I’m closer to than her. It always listens without answering back and all for £25 per month - what a bargain.

LUXE PARTY >> A memorable night > My son and I are lucky enough to be season ticket holders at Old Trafford - we were privileged to watch Man United vs Man City recently. A great night at the Theatre Of Dreams and a special father and son moment.

Best outfit > Anything that makes me look slim which unfortunately is getting harder these days!

Lunch date > When the kids are at school my wife and I love nothing better than a walk around RHS Harlow Carr in Harrogate followed by a trip to the exquisite Bettys Tea Rooms. Nothing beats their afternoon tea and toffee pancakes.

Dr Az Hyder is Clinical Director and Head of Business at the successful Burgess Hyder Dental Group. He qualified at the Royal London Dental Hospital in 1992.

Az has recently opened his flagship private dental clinic in the prestigious Wynyard Business Park - making it the groups 13th dental practice in the North East. Az is a devoted family man with four children and his wife Louise. He has a house in Wynyard Park and his work takes him around Durham, Darlington, Northumberland and the west lakes of Cumbria!

YOUR LUXE THING IN LIFE >> Spending as much time as possible with my family is important to me, but also being the Clinical Director of a healthcare team that passionately cares for thousands of patients across the North East and Cumbria makes me so proud - I have to pinch myself sometimes.

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AND BREATHE...

NOT SO BAD Hip hotels with Debrah Dhugga Debrah discovers the perfect place to hole up for a new year detox active, so I got my skis out and headed to the mountains! Luckily, I had Grisons, Glarus and St. Gallen all on my doorstop, and the nearby gondola lift to the local mountain, the Pizol, so it was easy to don the skis and be speeding down the mountain in no time.

Even better, a couple of days’ skiing doesn’t have to break the bank – book Bad Ragaz’s Ski & Wellbeing package for just £318 per night and get a ski pass for two days, ski rental, transfer to lifts, plus lunch and a transdermal magnesium massage.

APRES-SPA >> If you fancy getting glammed up and swapping the ski jacket for a sparkly dress, the resort’s casino is the perfect place to have a drink and spend a glamorous evening, maybe even placing a few bets if you’re feeling lucky. Definitely worth a visit too is the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, Igniv for really exquisite food. The complex has six restaurants and one café. Italian, French, Swiss and Chinese/Thai restaurants all offer a range of menus and a la carte options, plus the hotel’s signature cuisine équilibrée (super-healthy).

Hello everyone! Hope you are all well and recovering from the crazy festive season.

Following one of the busiest years of my career, and a frenzied Christmas lead-up, I had some well-earned downtime with my family – to set me off on the right foot for 2017.

Rather than opting for winter sun, my usual go-to, I packed the ski boots and ear muffs and headed to the small Swiss town of Bad Ragaz to stay at medical health and wellness spa, Grand Resort Bad Ragaz on the outskirts of Geneva weekend – the latter being exactly what I opted for!

HOTEL >> Bad Ragaz is an incredible hotel, spa and wellness retreat in the midst of the gorgeous Swiss alps, it’s fresh air at its best so the perfect place to head for a post-Christmas revival.

It is a classic, luxurious Alpine getaway, with a bit of a twist. It has one of the most state-of-the-art medical centres in Europe, and an award-winning spa too. Popular with everyone from girlfriends organising a spa getaway, to those recovering from an injury or illness, guests can stay there for a full body MOT, a particular treatment or operation, or simply to indulge and relax in the heavenly 36.5° thermal spa for the

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SPA >> Having treated myself to the full wellbeing package, I had full access to all the goodies the spa had to offer, including the legendary Helena private spa and pool, and the famous Tamina Therme – one of the most popular public thermal spas in Europe.

Feeling in much need of some rejuvenation both for my skin and soul, I made the most of daily fitness and relaxation activities, as well as fitting in a couple of workouts with the lovely work-IT-out ladies, the resort’s dedicated personal trainers, who are serious experts in their field.

Grand Resort Bad Ragaz boasts local

SKI REPORT >> My stay at Grand Resort Bad Ragaz was the perfect getaway to a magical winter wonderland, just a short trip from the UK, but a completely different, much snowier, world for you to beat the January blues.

You’ll come home feeling rested and rejuvenated, with softer skin, relaxed muscles, and the glow that only fresh alpine air brings. thermal waters with soothing powers, coming from the Tamina spring nearby, so I was excited to try this out for myself.

The spa itself is named after the natural temperature of the water, and it truly was the most relaxing experience to bathe in the pools, which can apparently reduce blood pressure, increase circulation, and relieve muscle tension – all things we need after what can be a stressful festive season.

TREATMENT >> I wanted something that was exclusive to the resort, one I couldn’t experience anywhere else, so I went for the signature Sequoia Ceremony (approx £230), a full-body massage that takes inspiration from the Sequoia Tree essence to give stability and grounding. I was treated to a gorgeous foot bath with a salt scrub, plus a foot reflexology massage, perfect for those of us who run around in high heels all day at work, which is most definitely me! My feet were certainly thanking me for a few days spent in plush slippers rather than stilettos.

After the feet came the main event: the full body massage. I don’t think I’ve ever been more relaxed than after this herbal compress with deliciously warm oil, it really was the kind of indulgence you only allow yourself once a year!

OUT & ABOUT >> After floating in thermal waters and laying on a massage table for two days, I thought it was time to do something a little bit more

Factbox...

Nightly rates at Grand Resort Bad Ragaz start from CHF 245 /£191* per person sharing a double room.

Rates include breakfast, welcome aperitif, use of the 36.5° Wellbeing & Thermal Spa area and Tamina Therme, fresh fruit and Ragaz water each day and daily fitness and relaxation lessons as well as VAT. Grand Resort Bad Ragaz CH-7310 Bad Ragaz Switzerland +41 (0)81 303 30 30 reservation@resortragaz.ch www.resortragaz.ch Easyjet fly Newcastle to Geneva www.easyjet.com

JAN/FEB17

WONDER WALLS

Stay sweet Northumberland has long been starved of luxury boutique hotels. The new Walwick Hall raises the bar nicely, says Kathryn Armstrong The Romans were respected for their love of a bath, so it seems only fitting that the North East’s newest spa should enjoy a view that reflects the origins of our spa-going passions.

Walwick Hall, in Humshaugh near Hexham sits close to Hadrian’s Wall and the military fort, Chesters. It was here that Roman baths and steam rooms were unearthed, pointing to an ancient desire for the pampering, cleanliness and rest that we like to think we’ve only just invented.

You don’t have to tramp the walls to get to Walwick Hall these days. And the beds are way comfier. In fact this new boutique hotel is fit for a king – or a weary Roman emperor for that matter.

The ten-bedroom boutique hotel was once owned by well-known North East entrepreneur Graham Wylie and is a neighbour to the Chesters Stud.

Walwick Hall opened for business just before Christmas. It’s very much the cosy winter retreat with rich country furnishings, the inevitable stag’s head on the wall and

lots of quality throws, rugs and plaids about the place in muted heathery country tones.

It’s easy to be drawn to the drawing room with expansive views across the Tyne Valley from sink-in sofas where you can nestle down with mags and papers aplenty. This is what a country retreat is all about – hiding away with too much time on your hands.

A neat cocktail bar offers up a nice bit of sophistication with an impressive cocktail menu to match – take your pick from signature cocktails, a glass of champagne or a pint of Wylam ale. Can’t imagine how thrilled the local villagers will be to have this slice of sophistication on their doorstop in times of cocktail need.

Love, style and class have gone into the décor of the hall from its young owner, Rachel Harrison. Choice of staff, attention to detail and a comforting approach combine to make this a unique boutique hotel in this part of the Tyne Valley.

It’s an intimate escape: the bedrooms are sumptuous places where you want to linger.

Vintage cups and saucers and a great coffee pod experience tick bedroom boxes – as do cute home-made biscuits.

F OOD LOVE > > A good boutique hotel really has to mean great food, it’s such a part of the package.

With the finest Northumbrian produce on the doorstep, Walwick has an unrivalled larder, so it was a joy to hear that the night’s special was a locally-landed roast pheasant.

The hotel’s dining room was a beautiful and dramatic place to enjoy it. The furnishings a soft rather than gaudy gold with heavy-print curtains, thick napery and an opulent feel.

Young staff are local and learning their stuff, but keen, capable and friendly.

The menu, from the hand of Steven Murray, offered up classics with plenty of local inspiration. OK, my Stornoway black pudding with foie gras wasn’t entirely ‘local’ but deeply satisfying nevertheless.

Other offerings were ham hock terrine, the perennial twice-baked cheese souffle and roast breast of partridge. My chum raved about fresh-as-anything lemon sole fillet with a rich stock-blessed lobster bisque and and lobster & crab potato cake alongside.

If you desire a bath with view – just like those Romans – then you’ll be spoilt for choice. Our bathroom was squeaky clean shiny – boasting a dazzling valley view from its roll-top bath, all the better piled high with Elemis bubbles and soft towels and robes waiting for you.

Elemis is the product range of choice in the adjoining spa, which is housed in a separate building overlooking the gardens, towards the distant hills.

It looks dramatic, especially at night, but is sympathetically designed to fit in well to its walled garden surroundings.

The pool is housed in glass pavilion with a

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Ingredients are proudly from the Northumbrian larder such as beef and lamb from Tim and Jack Oliver who farm nearby. They rear belted Galloway cattle – and my friend knows them a bit – so she dined on a mighty rib-eye. A gutsy chunk of meat, marbled though with creamy fat and served with triple cooked chips, tomatoes and crispy onions.

Back to that roast pheasant from the ‘specials’. Gently cooked, it was succulent and gamey, coping well with rich berryish accompaniments of an intense raisin puree, fig and the crunch of macadamia nuts – with a cranberry jus. Like something from the school’s nature table – in the tastiest way.

Next day a great breakfast menu offered up a Walwick Health Drink (berry honey, smoothie) to kick things off, decent hearty coffee and then smoked salmon and scrambled eggs on wholemeal toast.

Supplier name-checking: Scotts butchers in Ponteland village for unique Walwick bangers. Eggs are from Lynup Farm, Ingoe and milk and cream from a herd of Shorthorns and Ayreshires in Slaley.

Jacuzzi and steam room. It isn’t huge – there are three day beds to lounge on – so it’s an add-on to the hotel rather than a huge ‘spend the day’ destination spa. But there is a good selection of treatments available.

We can recommend the signature back and neck massage which sets those stressed shoulders to rights with pungent Elemis oils worked in by the skilled masseur.

This is one stylish getaway destination – easy to get to from all parts of the North East but you really get a sense of ‘away from it all’. www.walwickhall.com

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FLOAT AWAY

Sail the valleys and taste the vines. A gourmet wine river cruise to the Douro Valley in Portugal makes the concept of ‘sample and nap’ an easy one. Gilly Pickup raises a glass

Douro discovery

Sailing along the Douro, ‘river of gold’, the traditional, flat-bottomed 18th century boats called ‘barcos rabelos’ are much in evidence. Once used to transport barrels of port wine from the Douro vineyards for storage and aging in caves at Vila Nova de Gaia, these boats still remain a symbol of port winemaking.

The lure of port-tasting and chance to explore more of Portugal’s wine industry were reason enough for hopping on board this leisurely river cruise.

Fortunately, our modern ship, though small, was a lot more comfortable than those 18th century forms of transport and came with all the bells and whistles including a stylish, balcony cabin with gloriously comfortable bed and a marble bathroom with walk-in shower and generous supply of l’Occitane toiletries.

All cabins also have a 42” flat-screen TV monitor and an all-in-one information and entertainment system with wireless keyboard and touch screen properties. It has to be said storage space on board is limited and if, on a whim, you decided to bring a wardrobe’s worth of fancy frocks you’d have a problem finding somewhere to hang them.

However, since the dress code on board is ‘smart casual’ you really don’t need these anyway. Ama Vida’s other onboard amenities include a lounge with bar and sun deck with small heated swimming pool, loungers, tables, chairs and a covered area, ideal for relaxing or reading when the sun shines fit to burst, as it did on our trip.

Massage and spa treatments are available on board at an additional cost. The logistics of travelling along narrow parts of a river, under low bridges and negotiating locks – five on this trip - means although river ships are compact they can pack a lot into – in Ama Vida’s case - three decks.

Complimentary wifi is always a bonus and meant I could catch up on emails and what was happening in my personal world before heading for dinner in the main restaurant.

There’s no need to miss out on the passing scenery here either. The room’s floor-to-ceiling windows offer panoramic views of this often otherworldly terrain with its terraced

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vineyards, olive and almond trees and time-warp villages with white houses tumbling down the slopes like spilt sugar cubes.

On board, the many-splendoured breakfasts and lunches are buffet service while the a la carte dinner menu, which changes daily, features three or four appetisers, two soups and three entrees – normally a meat, fish and vegetarian option while ‘always available’ choices include grilled salmon, chicken or sirloin steak and Caesar salad. An impressive amount of complimentary wines, beers and soft drinks at lunch and dinner are also included in the package.

Besides that, AmaWaterways also include all excursions in the fare. On this particular sailing, since the theme was ‘wine’, plenty of tastings were available in tours to producers.

One day we visited the Douro museum in the town of Peso da Regua, where visitors can enjoy sampling port wine as well as gain an insight into the heritage and wine culture of the region. After that, it was off to Lamego, a town brimful of noble manor houses and home to Portugal’s first parliament. Its main claim to fame as far as tourists are concerned is an 18th century shrine, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies. Back in the day, pilgrims climbed 600 steps to reach this sanctuary nudging the clouds but fortunately our coach did the journey for us. On the way down we stopped for a tasting of local sparkling wine before jumping back in the coach for a spectacular drive along narrow, wiggly roads to hilltop Quinta do Seixa. The immediately recognisable emblem here is the Don, a silhouette of a man wearing a black cape and wide-brimmed hat which of course introduces Sandeman and where those who were still thirsty for more were treated to another selection of port wines.

A highlight for me was an excursion to UNESCO World Heritage listed Guimarães – the Douro area is studded with UNESCO sites. Our guide proudly described Guimarães as the ‘cradle of Portugal.’ Indeed, Dom Afonso Henriques, the very first Portuguese king was born here in the 12th century.

It’s a small city, a maze of cobwebby cobbled streets and café-lined shady squares and was the country’s first capital,

though it subsequently lost its crown to Coimbra in 1143. A picturesque castle, now no more than an empty shell, offers head-swimming views from the ramparts right across the city while the nearby Ducal Palace is awash with tapestries and armoury. Not too far away from Guimarães we swung by the 14th century Casa de Sezim, a rather grand manor house surrounded by vineyards. Our small group was greeted by the current owner who gave us a tour of his ancestral home - it has been in his family since 1376! Walls, hung with rare, early 19th century wallpaper, hand painted in brilliant demented hues, portray gloriously vivid, intricate scenes of the old and new worlds.

After the tour of his property, now converted into a small hotel, we were led out onto the long veranda overlooking lush gardens to sample the family’s cheese, ham and baskets of rough homemade bread– and, what’s that? Yes of course! - more delicious wines.

The lure of port-tasting and Portugal’s wine industry were reason enough for hopping on board this leisurely river cruise JAN/FEB17

The Douro Valley, one of the world’s oldest protected wine regions and a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for the production of port wine, the rich, strong, sweet drink first made in the 1700s. Over the centuries it has never really lost its popularity and a continued English involvement in the port trade is evident in the names of the quintas (wine estates) perched on terraces high above the river – among them Cockburn, Croft, Dow, Graham, Osborne, Sandeman, Taylor and Warre

Info

AmaWaterways offers a seven night ‘Enticing Douro’ round trip river cruise aboard the AmaVida departing from Porto. Prices are from £2,348 pp for a river view cabin including flights, non UK transfers, accommodation, all meals, wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, complimentary daily tours and excursions and free wi-fi. Freephone 0800 320 2336 or visit www.amawaterways.co.uk.

JAN/FEB17

53

In association with:

luxe:looks Hope 4 Kids Sporting Dinner, Stadium of Light, Sunderland Below > Andy Dowell, Marty Lawther, Neil Reid

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!

Christian Alexander Fashion Show, Grand Marquee, Wynyard Below > Melanie Willis, Sam Crossman, Michelle Richards

Above > Keith Morrison, Ian Lascelless Below > Bobby Kerr, Micky Horswill

Above > Christan Curran, Kate Clifford

Above > Kate White, Carly Gould

Below > Rebecca Dowsten, Sarah Gorman, Olivia Manning, Gemma Pepper, Nicci King

Above > Joanna Veti, Walter Veti

Below > Shona Harper-Wilkes

Above > Alan Scott, Mary Scott Above > Lyndsey Brown

Bond Dickinson VIP Event, Fenwick, Newcastle Tivoli Below > Loren Bain, Aoife Owens

Question of Sport, Hilton, Newcastle Gateshead

Below > Dawn Wraith, Steve Wraith

Below > Alex Colby, Warren Colby, Joanne Clift Above > Duncan Noble, Katherine Noble, Simon Dobson Below > Jenny Atkin, Nina Adlparvar

Below > Jaqueline Smith, Lynn Cameron

Above > Helen Beck, John Beck, Julie Watson, John Watson

Above > Hilary Du Randt, Sandra Stewart, Rosie Marsh, Susan Fearon

Below > Catherine Coulter, Julia Anne Kelly, Laura Collingan, Rebecca Rankin

Above > Phil Mustard, Laura McDonald

Above > Anne Hardy and Gregg Owen

Above > Peter Snaith, Sophie Hornby, Ian Hornby, Nigel Emmerson

TIME TO THINK OF PRELOVED WATCHES? 54

JAN/FEB17

SOCIAL LIFE

Tom Kerridge Homeware Launch, Fenwick, Newcastle Below > Sarah Appleby, Ali Bowden-Skorker

Below > Jason Wise, Dawn Wise

Below > Fiona Stevenson, Molly Stevenson

Above > Michelle Hewitson, Steven Hewitson Above > Victoria Hood, Fred Hood

Above > Phil Pringle, Wendy Pringle

Psyche VIP Christmas Event and Launch of New Extension Below > Lord Lieutenant Barry Dodd, Steve Cochrane

Perrier Jouet Dinner, Rockliffe Hall Below > Andrew Verity, Julie Verity, Anthony Verity, Laura Sharkey

Above > Kerry Monk, Jonathan Willett, Clare Willett Below > Singer Kiera Weathers, Aisha Embalo

Below > Becca Hughes, Bethany Dean, Michelle Dawson

Above > Nicole Gilbert, Wayne Spooner, Andrew Tingle, Ingrid Tingle Below > David Hall, Judith Hall, Katy Thorne, Derek Dryden

Below > Elizabeth Burke, John Maddison, Sharon Pearson, Jeff Burke

Above > Callum Roulston, Rebecca Ridsdale

Above > Alex Stephenson, Nicole Cook

Above > Honor Wilkinson-Bell, Karen Wilkinson-Bell, Diane O’Connell, Jo Fryett, Aisleign O’Connell

Above > Allan Cook, Nicola Cook, Claire Grylls, Paul Grylls

Aston Martin Festive Event, Silverlink, Newcastle Below > Paul Hughlock, Ann Hughlock, Tony Barley

Below > Amber Young, Steven Young

Below > Graham Weatherall, Oliver Weatherall, Paul Thursby

Above > Tony Dickinson, Chris Fox Above > Alan Higgins, David Higgins

Above > Thomas Brown, Jessica Errington

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

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55

SOCIAL LIFE

Tilly Bailey Irvine Christmas Event, Acklam Hall

Percy Hedley Foundation, Mistletoe Ball, Newcastle Marriott, Gosforth Park Below > Tom Coltman, Sheila Coltman, Joanne Rees-Proud, Richard Rees-Proud

Below > John Carling, David Thompson

Above > Helen Lyne, Chris Duggan, Ellie Gilbert

Above > Margaret Renton, Clare Renton, Stephen Miller, Ros Miller Below > Peter Sahota, Ruby Sahota

Below > Laura Zielinski, John Ellwood

Above > Julie Wallin, Sara Garnett Above > Martin Levinson, Simon Brown

Above > Susan Jobling, Michael Jobling, Cecilia McIntyre, Paul Dawson

Below > Debra Burton, Emily Bentley, Helen Elstob

Below > Alan Hodgkiss, Helen Hodgkiss, Milli Donald, John Donald

Coco Charity Ball, Hilton, NewcastleGateshead

Signature Ball, Sage, Gateshead

Below > Lucy Philipson

Below > Allison Curbishley, Steve Cram

Above > Rachel Davison, Matt Hart, Marcus Cram, Rachel Geller

Above > Julie Dimascio, Joan Callaghan

Below > April Elizbeth Lord, Mark Small, Holly Dawson

Above > William Allen, Sarah Allen, Nicola Bains, Mark Bains

Below > Jeff Brown, Susan Wear

Below > Gary Hunter, Gillian Hunter

Above > Chris Langrell, Dawn Henderson Above > Alfie Joey

Above > Andrew Bennett, Calvin Moore

Below > Paul Latimer, Victoria Latimer, Paul Kinghorn, Amanda Stobbs

Above > Marco Gabbiadini, Steve Cram

Above > Bruce Pickard, Dorothy Crane, Harry Crane, Jeanette Pickard Above > Edward Coulson, Silvia Johnston, Melaine Scollen

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

56

JAN/FEB17

TIME TO THINK OF PRELOVED WATCHES?

Cocktail Masterclass, Cleveland Tontine, North Yorkshire Below > Jess Shuker, David Crilly

Below > Lauren Stephenson, Clair Lockwood, Sophie Shepherd

Above > Fiona Adams, Lucy Fleming, Jill Stewart Below > Joanne Hudson, Jacqueline Power

Above > Michelle Panhurst, Lisa Stephenson Above > Paul Fussey, Emily Fussey

My Sister’s Place Hollywood Ball, Gisborough Hall, Guisborough Below > Sarah Benson, Natalie Blake

Below > Patricia Kilgour, Peter Kilgour, Phil Kilgour

Above > Faye James, Kerry Scott

Above > Gill Edge, Jane Boagey

Above > Michelle O’Rourke, Joanne Dent, Amy Dent Above > Joe Watson, Sophie Lynas

Divas & Diamonds, Hilton, NewcastleGateshead Below > Linda Young, Laura Street, Melissa Gordon, Vera Butcher

Above > Georgia Brown, Lisa Brown

Below > Elise Binney, Suzanne Mcreedy

Below > Rachel Williams, Marrion Lowden, Rebecca Lowden

Above > Allison Winship, Alison Brannigan, Caroline Mackenzie, Charis Harvey, Shakela Hirst, Christine Graham 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

JAN/FEB17

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

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SKIES NO LIMIT

High flyer

Local lad James Moon is CEO and founder of Moon Jet Group - an aircraft remarketing firm that has soared its way to worldwide success in just over a year. Jessica Laing discovers why the sky’s the limit for this young pilot and his jet setting business What were you doing at 23-yearsold? Embarking on the dreaded job hunt?

Scrambling together rent money? Partying like there’s no tomorrow?

While many people in their early twenties find themselves diving, often begrudgingly, into the big wide world without a map, the same can’t be said for James Moon who, at the tender age of 23, already has a CEO title under his belt and a reputation as one of the region’s most successful young entrepreneurs. He’s a guy who definitely knows where he’s going.

Moon Jet Group is his baby - a now internationally-acclaimed business born out of boundless ambition and a passion for aviation that has been a part of him since day dot. After leaving school, James went on to become one of the UK’s youngest pilots at just 17-years-old, opting for a life in the clouds over A-Levels and university.

“Aviation has always been my focus - even when it shouldn’t have been,” says the former Dame Allan’s pupil. “When I was

58

doing my GCSEs, I was revising for my pilot’s licence instead - which my parents hated. But it was the only thing I was scoring 100 per cent in.”

“Nothing else - no other career - appealed to me, which is why I decided to leave school at 16 and focus solely on my pilot training at Newcastle International Airport.”

“At the time I had broken my spine playing football - a real eye-opening experience that made me realise how precious life is - and I just decided to go for it. Even back then, I couldn’t imagine doing anything else and don’t regret a second of it.”

Becoming an airline pilot was the dream and after a few years spent building precious flight time and forging connections with airlines, James was well on his way to making it a reality - until opportunity came knocking on the cockpit door. A chance encounter that, unbeknownst to James, would later propel him from pilot newbie to high-flying businessman.

“I was having the time of my life as a newly-qualified pilot, until one day an aircraft owner, who I had met while flying

in Florida, approached me and asked if I might be interested in helping them sell their aircraft,” James recalls.

“It took me back a bit as I knew nothing about aircraft sales at the time, other than a few websites that could help with their advertising. After all, I was only 20-yearsold. But they could see how dedicated I was to aviation and how enthusiastic I was about it, so they gave me a go. Long story short, I bit the bullet, ended up selling it for them and the rest, they say, is history.”

James soon began helping fellow aviation addicts sell their planes free of charge, gaining valuable, first-hand experience and an insight into an industry that he would later take by storm.

Realising just how much profit there was to be made, he spent the next two years carefully creating a business model; building connections with airlines and rubbing shoulders with decision-makers, before putting his flying career on standby to launch Moon Jet Group in May 2015.

And it’s certainly been a leap worth taking.

After a somewhat slow start, come Christmas 2015 the firm fought off stiff competition to land a $172 million deal with an Asian airline for two Airbus A330s.

“The first seven months of business were quite slow - we only had two or three aircrafts on our books - which, in my eyes, wasn’t good enough. But by the end of the year, that all changed.” >>

I was having the time of my life as a newlyqualified pilot, until one day an aircraft owner, who I had met while flying in Florida, approached me and asked if I might be interested in helping them sell their aircraft JAN/FEB17

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Model displayed: Infiniti FX30d S Premium. 238 horsepower 3.0-litre V6 Diesel engine with 550 Nm of torque. Official fuel economy figures for the Infiniti FX range in mpg (l/100 km): Based on 8,000 milesurban per 25.2 annum to 15.0 (11.2 to 18.9), extra urban 36.2 to 28.8 (7.8 to 9.8), combined 31.4 to 21.6 (9.0 to 13.1). CO2 emission: 307 to 238g/km.

Model displayed: Infiniti FX30d Premium.

238 horsepower 3.0-litre V6 Diesel engineServices, with 550 Nm of torque. fuel economy figures for the Infiniti FX range in mpg (l/100 km): We are a credit broker, and weSare not a lender.

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Finance provided by Infiniti Financial Services, Eagle House, 78 St Albans Road, Watford, Hertfordshire WD17 1AF. Subject to status.

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SKIES NO LIMIT “Winning the Airbus deal meant people started taking us seriously and business just took off. I like to think of it as a little Christmas miracle. It really set the benchmark for us and showed others what we were capable of.”

Today, Moon Jet Group proudly represents 95 aircrafts for sale, from small engine planes and turboprops, to private helicopters, speedy airliners and luxury corporate jets. A vast selection that not only reflects the firm’s international appeal, but its unrivalled success as now the world’s largest aircraft remarketing firm. Take a look at its online portfolio and if you do your sums right, you’ll discover the collection is worth a very handsome $410 million.

“I’m very proud of our selection of aircrafts - none of our competitors can offer buyers such a variety,” says James. “Out of 95, three are on British soil, while the others can be found overseas in the likes of America, Canada, Australia and parts of Asia.

I love them all and it’s crazy how much the collection has grown in such a short space of time.”

“Becoming the world’s largest remarketing firm is something I never expected to happen - especially within less than two years of business! But it’s all about standing out from the crowd, seeing what we can do differently and ultimately turning the industry on its head. It’s a title I’m determined to keep.”

Remaining client-driven is the name of the game for James, who operates from a small office hub on Newcastle’s Quayside, and his team, who are based in the firm’s Sydney and Michigan-based offices. A third will soon open in Denver, Colorado, to help manage the firm’s blossoming success in the U.S. Even when the big bucks are concerned, there are no upfront costs when selling an aircraft through Moon Jet Group, no matter how big or small. Meaning nobody - not even James - receives a dime until it goes to a new home.

Sound crazy? To some, yes. But not to this rising business star. Saying so-long to hefty upfront fees and eye-watering percentages, he tells me, is what makes Moon Jet Group unique and only fuels his and his team’s excitement and determination when faced with new clients.

“Put simply, we have an interest to sell each and every aircraft because we don’t get paid until it sells,” he explains. “A lot of our competitors ask for obscene figures -

sometimes up to £50,000 - before they even help you. But I ask, where’s the motivation to sell it properly after that?”

“Gaining clients’ trust is important especially when you're dealing with high net-worth individuals. It’s not about taking advantage of how much money they have and scamming them out of hundreds of thousands. It’s about having the confidence to take on a challenge because you’re passionate about what you do - and having your clients see that.”

“If an aircraft does sell, we get between one and 10 per cent. Though I usually just ask for one. And although I could, I don’t charge for my time either. I’m not in it for the money - hard to believe, I know, for a 23-year-old lad, but building lasting relationships with clients is my priority.”

With 2017 already underway, James is looking forward to another prosperous 12 months for Moon Jet Group, setting his sights on aircraft charters and venturing into the world of airline leasing, all the while remaining committed to increasing aircraft sales. He even dreams of creating his very own airline. Big plans for a guy who’s yet to reach his 25th birthday.

“Chartering aircrafts is a really exciting prospect,” says James. “I’m in touch with a lot of aircraft owners at the moment who have assets going to waste - beautiful planes sitting un-used, rusting away. So I thought, why don’t we do something about it?”

“Let us manage the aircraft, get it in great shape, fly it for customers worldwide from Newcastle, say, and help generate revenue for both parties. It’s a win-win. Most people don’t realise how cheap it can be to charter an aircraft - it’s a market that’s virtually untapped here in the North East and I can’t wait to see what comes of it.”

And with that, conversation quickly turns to what many twenty-something-year-olds chat about; why ‘older’ people always ask if you’re thinking of marriage yet (he isn’t), if you actually like your surname (he does and it is real), how many siblings you have (he has three older brothers) and whether your parents prefer you over them (he likes to think so) and why, in God’s name, is it that once you enter your twenties you’re constantly knackered (he doesn’t know either). Ah, to be 23 again. www.moonjetgroup.com info@moonjetgroup.com

GET TO KNOW ME… If you could fly one aircraft for the rest of your life, what would it be? There are so many, but I’d probably go for the Airbus A380. The technology is just amazing.

But I wouldn’t say no to a Gulfstream G650 either - that thing can fly from London to Beijing non-stop. Incredible.

Favourite plane-related film? Air Force One with Harrison Ford. It’s a classic.

Best flight of your life? When I flew solo from Newcastle for the first time. When the co-pilot leaves the cockpit and you’re left to fly the thing yourself - talk about an exciting, frightening experience! I’ll never forget it ’til the day I die.

Worst flight of your life? During my qualifying cross-country flight during my training.

I was flying over to Carlisle and somehow ended up flying into loads of cloud and couldn’t see a thing. I totally lost my bearings and started to descend below the acceptable height, before the guys reached me on the radio and talked me down.

Really scary - but at least I didn’t crash!

Aeroplane food - yay or nay? I absolutely love it. I actually get my brother, a pilot for British Airways, to bring me home the spares.

Next travel destination? Naples in Florida. We go every year as a family. I have a few deals on at the moment and if they come through, I’ll take mum and dad over. My brothers can pay for themselves!

Favourite airline? Virgin - it’s so entrepreneurial. The airline has been really supportive of me and I love what they stand for in terms of service and business. I’d love to meet Richard Branson one day.

Aviation hero? John Travolta - I’m a huge fan. There’s Bruce Dickinson from Iron Maiden, too, who has his own aviation business now. I’ve been emailing with his secretary to see if we can work together. What an icon.

Typical day? Every day is different. Some days I’ll be having conference calls at 4am with my Asian and Australian market, then again at 11pm with my guys in LA. In between I might get calls from someone wanting to make an offer on a plane over in Brazil and emails from owners wanting updates on their aircrafts. I battle with many time zones to keep everyone happy!

Best airport in the world? Newcastle International - it’s where I began my aviation career and I have so many fond memories of the place. You can’t beat home.

Biggest business hurdle? Probably my age. I was once working with one of the world’s largest aircraft operators and it was all going well until they saw how old I was on LinkedIn. Many people underestimate me, or think my business is a scam, and walk away. But I love to prove people wrong. Age is just a number.

Behind-the-scenes fact? Once a sale has gone through, I give every buyer a little plaque with their aircraft on it and our slogan ‘safe flying and blue skies’ as a little gesture of goodwill. I also update all of my owners with a personal quarterly email, letting them know how their aircrafts are doing.

Let us manage the aircraft, get it in great shape, fly it for customers worldwide from Newcastle, say, and help generate revenue for both parties. It’s a win-win 60

What do you do in your free time? I’m captain of my cricket team at South Northumberland Cricket Club - I play every Saturday during the summer. I also have access to a little aircraft, which belongs to Newcastle International’s Flying School, so I can take to the skies as much as I can.

JAN/FEB17

ONLINE

live it luxe all day, every day Here’s what you’ll find online…

WIN A BLISSFUL BREAK FOR TWO A romantic break for two in your very own exquisite ‘shepherd’s hut’ at Beacon Hill Hideaways - it’s the perfect New Year pick-me-up.

6 S P R I N G G E TAWAY S From treehouse treats and rural retreats to country cottages and arty residences, our guide to six luxe spring getaways to book.

STYLISH SKIING From the perfect après-ski Moncler hat to the snug Nicholas Kirkwood shearling boots for dreamy village walks in the Alps, we have you covered from head to toe - on and off the slopes.

luxe-magazine.co.uk

HOME & AWAY

LIVING IT UP with Alok Loomba The social pulse races

THRILLED BY >> The social delights of the festive season. We’re in the season of social events. September saw me once again at the Oyster Festival at Hardwick Hall.

Held in a large marquee in the grounds of the hotel, I have been going to the Oyster for years. It’s a great event. It’s very well attended by the business community and wealthy North-Easterners and a good opportunity to catch up with colleagues, clients and good friends.

It is a strange event in that the oysters and fine seafood (although plentiful and delicious) seem to be ancillary to the vast amounts of alcohol being consumed by everyone in the marquee!

Suffice to say that the combination of alcohol and no carbohydrates means that the organisers choose, wisely, to put a 6pm finish on the event! It’s always hugely entertaining. This year the event was compered by Bobby Davro who provided some great stand-up entertainment.

I’ve attended a couple of race meets this winter that have been held on the new all-weather track at the Gosforth racecourse. It’s a nice change to be able to attend these events in the winter now as well as the summer. The investment that the racecourse has made in the track has opened up the entertaining possibilities in a very good way. In particular I have enjoyed the ‘twilight’ races. It’s exciting seeing the racing at night. Events usually start at about 3pm and finish around 6.30pm.

Recommended!

I recently went to the Sage to see Pink Pink Martini Martini. I wasn’t previously familiar with this group; I was invited along with some friends but I’m very glad that I went. The group are American, have a huge cult following and describe themselves as a ‘Little Orchestra’ with music crossing many genres including classical, Latin, jazz and classic pop. It was a really enjoyable and entertaining show and it was good to see some exceptionally talented live performers, including a superb lead singer with the equally superb name of China Forbes. I had actually forgotten how impressive the Sage is as a venue. We tend to overlook things that are on our doorstep and it certainly made me interested to see what they have to offer for next year’s programme of events.

I was very proud of my good friends the Khaliq family (Gainford Group) who recently acquired the County Hotel in Newcastle city centre. This is an impressive addition to their burgeoning empire. I went along to an event to celebrate their acquisition. Having never been in the hotel I was struck by how impressive it is, a real landmark. The original features are beautiful and well maintained and this, coupled with its location, makes it an excellent acquisition. As a fan of their other venues, Aveika and Livello – I am excited to see how The County will develop. My expectations are pretty high!

TRAVELLING TO >> In my view the real kick-off to the festive season is a week of winter sun in preparation for all the late nights, busy end of year times at the office and the general over indulgences of December. I travelled to Dubai at the end of November for a week of sun, sea and exceptional cuisine. I’m very familiar with Dubai and a winter visit to some of my favourite haunts relaxing by the pool to top up my tan is always a treat.

I must admit I look forward to attending all of the season’s usual social events on the cold dark nights with a nice tan!

TRIED ON >> I am a fan of the ‘athluxe’ trend that seems to be sweeping menswear – athletic luxury. Leisurewear has never been quite so stylish. Style statements to one side, you can’t help but be blown over by the obvious comfort benefits. The athluxe is ideal for long haul travel as well as being an impressive look for the gym. My favourite example is from one my favourite designers, Hugo Boss Red Label. The ‘Drontier’ is a slick black two piece zip-through and jogging trouser set which is embellished with leather detail. It is sharp, cool and embodies everything that is great about the trend. Paired with a smart pair of black suede trainers and a grey t shirt this is a great athletic but luxurious look which will take you from deadlifts in the gym to a flight to Dubai in one easy outfit.

The Drontier is available at £206 for the set at Hugo Boss outlets and online at www. hugoboss.com.

THINKING ABOUT >> Spa treatments. The usual round of festive fun brings with it a great deal of overindulgence. January is all about detoxing and taking care of oneself. I’m looking forward to indulging in a couple of spa days. I’m very keen to try out both the Ramside Spa, as I hear wonderful things about it but have not yet been, and also the outdoor spa at Wynyard Hall. Wynyard recently won a national award for the best outdoor spa in the country. It really is wonderful that we have spa venues like this on our doorstep and I think it’s our duty to take full advantage of these.

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Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GX80 Compact System Camera, £549; www.johnlewis.com Apple Watch Stainless Steel Case with Milanese Loop (42mm Case), £699; www.apple.com

Revelstoke, Shearling Jacket - Ice, £795; www.reiss.com

Bose SoundSport Pulse Wireless Headphones, Push your workout to the next level, £169.95; www.petertyson.co.uk

Hugo Boss, Business bag in material blend with leather trim: ‘Digital L_S doc’, £280; www.hugoboss.com

Asprey, Sterling Silver and Crystal Stag Decanter, £2,800; www.mrporter.com Sonic Editions, Framed 27 Club Triptych Prints, £850; www.mrporter.com

JAN/FEB17

LUST LIST

Happy Socks, Filled Optic Sock, £9; www.happysocks.com

Paul Smith Accessories, Dip dye cashmere scarf, £175; www.selfridges.com

Devialet Phantom Silver, A wireless speaker with power, clarity, and precision, £1,690; www.petertyson.co.uk Guilloche Cisele Anthracite Propelling Ballpoint Pen, £205; www.amara.com

Aspinal of London, The Portofino Travel Bag, £1,250; www.harveynichols.com B&O H9 Headphones, Premium wireless, Active Noise Cancelling over-ear headphones, £449; www.petertyson.co.uk

Eight & Bob 100ml Eau de Toilette, £115; www.conranshop.co.uk

A man’s world A guide to what’s hot this season when it comes to men’s style, tech and accessories

BMW xDrive

Lloyd Newcastle

The Ultimate Driving Machine

PREPARE FOR THE UNEXPECTED WITH 4-WHEEL DRIVE FROM LLOYD NEWCASTLE BMW. BMW xDrive is a four-wheel drive system like no other. Capable of switching up to 100 percent of power between rear and front wheels in just one-tenth of a second, it delivers optimum grip, ensuring confidence on any road surface. xDrive is available on selected models throughout the BMW range from Lloyd Newcastle BMW, including Sports Hatch, Saloon, Coupé and Touring models.

To find out more or to book a test drive*, please call 0191 2617366 or visit www.lloydnewcastlebmw.co.uk

Lloyd Newcastle BMW

Barrack Road, Newcastle Upon Tyne, Tyne & Wear NE2 4LE 0191 2617366 www.lloydnewcastlebmw.co.uk *Test drive subject to applicant status and availability.

JAN/FEB17

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WHEEL DEAL

AT THE WHEEL Bob Arora channels his inner superhero in Nissan’s big gun, the GT-R

In the batmobile

Bob takes to the wheel in a Nissan for the first time in a long while and puts the perky GT-R through its paces

Sitting in a Nissan always makes you feel good: a locally-made motor certainly ticks the provenance box.

This month I got behind the wheel of the Nissan GT-R. And what a plaything it proved to be.

Having first driven a GT-R car over six years ago I can’t even begin to explain just how much I was looking forward to getting back into the beast once again.

The very first GT-R came out in 1969 with the 2lt mean machine sporting the Skyline badge. A coupe version followed in 1971, replaced by the 1973 model which was limited to 197 cars.

That was the end of the Skyline until 1990 when Nissan decided to enter racing, giving new life to Nissan’s equivalent to Ford’s Mustang. This brings me on to the latest and most recognisable version of the GT-R. The newest incarnation of the Japanese supercar has become even better than the excellent version I drove six years ago.

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In my review of that one, my friend had just bought a GT-R - but, due to becoming a grandmother recently, she has sold the car.

As a treat I decided to take her out for a spin in this one. She was tempted to go straight to the garage and order one!

Nissan have made only subtle changes to the car but it’s really a force to be reckoned with. The only aesthetic difference I noticed on the outside of the car was LED lights incorporated into the front bumper. Any GT-R buffs please excuse my ignorance if I have missed out anything else new.

The car has a drag co efficiency of 0.27 and this makes this car very sleek indeed. If you haven’t seen a GT-R before you can’t help but notice the massive tyres and the huge rear exhaust pipes - it could quite easily pass as a batmobile.

Driving the GT-R you realise just how big and muscular the car actually is, driving around town or along narrow roads can be very scary indeed. If you have an eyewatering £120,000 spare the Nismo edition of the GT-R makes the car even more performance tuned.

Alternatively, for an additional £10,000 on the original car’s price, the Track Pack GT-R sees firmer springs, improved brake cooling and 20kg in weight saved thanks to removed rear seats and lighter alloys. The result is a car focused on the track and shaving seconds on lap times. If I am being totally honest I think the standard GTR is amazing value as it is, and I personally don’t think the extra £10k difference makes the

already fantastic car any better at all.

Anyone used to a Porsche 911 will find the Nissan interior quite an afterthought. It seems like the designers really knuckled down with the exterior design and the engine, but left the car’s interior design to a novice.

The dash is dominated by a screen which not only has an array of options and data read-outs but there are so many buttons it can be quite bewildering.

The interior trim and plastics are really cheap and very nasty indeed.

I’m sure in my last review I likened the plastic to recycled BIC pens and the screen like something from Dixons and not much has changed.

Fans of the GT-R will no doubt say the car is about the performance and handling not refinement and with that in mind it has to be said this car is unbelievable.

The standard car has 523bhp and goes 0-60mph in a mind boggling time of less than three seconds and thanks to the excellent four-wheel-drive feels glued to the road.

Each engine is bench tested at full revs for ten minutes and the tyres are filled with nitrogen as air is just too unpredictable. The dual clutch gear box is as good as Porsche’s PDK box. The gearbox can be adjusted from snow mode to R mode changing the shift speed and pattern.

In R mode the engine runs to the limiter.

This setting is ideally suited to the track.

Parking the GT-R can be quite nerve racking

as the slightest touch of the throttle and the car lurches forward. If you perform a three point turn when the car is cold and you will hear a great deal of noise from the front differential. Despite me driving the car in comfort, the ride is still very harsh around town or at slow speeds. The standard car has two rear seats which are really only useful for young kids and if a 6ft driver sits in the front there is virtually no space in the rear at all.

The boot has plenty of room for two sets of golf clubs, so keen golfers will be happy as they have space and pace galore. The car comes with a three year or 60,000 mile warranty and it needs to be serviced every 6000 miles. If you do want to buy this beast it may be advisable to purchase the servicing pack which will save you money over your ownership of the car.

The GT-R really has to be the most value for money supercar on the market.

It has the power and pace to keep up with Porsches and Ferraris but on tricky roads the car makes you look like a formula one driver.

Just as I was about to finish this review I noticed Nissan showcasing the new 2017 GT-R in New York.

Once again it’s hard to notice the differences on the outside but thankfully the designers have given the interior a real once over. I can’t wait to drive it and let you know my thoughts again.

Car supplied by Lookers Nissan.

JAN/FEB17

STAR CAR

Smile as you

steer

Prior to introducing the Boxster and Cayman, Porsche was a company in big trouble.

They went on to become sales phenomena, helping put Porsche back into profitability

After owning quite a few Boxsters I remember with excitement ordering a Cayman. It was always called the poor man’s 911 but personally thought it was kinder to call it the thinking man’s Porsche.

I remember watching Top Gear one night with Jeremy Clarkson reviewing the Cayman.

Knowing his hatred for Porsches, I watched, eagerly waiting for him to hate the car.

It’s a well-known fact in the car industry that what Clarkson says can make or break a car.

Having ordered my car I was waiting to see what he had to say. I’m sure he liked it but he trotted out the familiar ‘poor man’s 911’ line and promptly decided to re-name the car a Coxster.

Who cares? When I started the car up for the first time the noise made the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. The engine is behind you and with the blaring exhaust, it made for a truly memorable drive home - especially with its exemplary handling.

I really couldn’t wait to get my hands on the keys and take it for a drive again. A trip to the Lakes was on the cards and the weather was great with the perfect car for the day at hand.

As I get to drive different cars most weeks it’s interesting when I get some feedback from people. I think the colour of the Cayman, a metallic Miami blue - just made it look really amazing and attracted a fair bit of attention. Normally no one comments on the car but with this machine, loads of

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people commented on just how beautiful it looked.

At first glance, the new Cayman doesn’t seem too different to the model it is replacing. However, I’m informed that only the roof, bootlid and windscreen are the same, with every other panel being changed.

The new model has what can only be described as a sweat band running along the back of the car, with Porsche lettering running along underneath the third brake light.

A bit of a jigsaw puzzle, the Cayman features front suspension from the 911 Turbo and rear suspension with bits from the GT4 especially when it comes to lateral stiffness.

The S also features beefed up brakes from the 911 with four-piston callipers and thicker discs. The 911 has always been the benchmark for two seater sports cars. So the Cayman, with its new smaller turbocharged engine, had a great deal to live up to.

It has two engine choices like the previous Cayman. The difference now is both engines are not only smaller but they are both turbocharged as well.

You can choose from either a 2.0lt or 2.5lt engine which get to 62mph in 5.1 and 4.6 seconds with top speeds of 170mph and 177mph respectively.

In the right hands or feet the car should return around 35mpg but while I had the car, I managed to average around 20mpg. As I’ve said the engine is mounted behind the

driver so not only does that help give the car perfect weight distribution it also gives you two boots.

One behind the engine and one at the front.

As the engine powers the rear wheels all the front wheels have to do is steer – something they do well. The feedback is brilliant and I for one am a fan of the electric steering.

Unlike some I’ve tried recently Porsche have nailed it with excellent feedback through the steering wheel right into your hands. The cars subtle exterior design tweaks really look great, but inside the car looks just like the 911 and the dash and multi-media

virtually no body roll at all. Put the car into sport mode using the new dial on the GT steering wheel and the engine really comes to life.

From the first popping and rasping exhaust noises, you really want to downshift all the time just to hear the amazing noise from the engine; saying that, the new smaller engines just don’t have the same amazing soundtrack of the previous six cylinder engines.

As with all Porsche cars it’s very easy to go mad with the spec sheet.

The Cayman comes with air conditioning,

Owners will really relish driving this car down some country roads as it really feels planted to the road and there is virtually no body roll at all system is light years better than the previous car.

The system comes with Apple Play so it’s much easier to link your iPhone and access music and entertainment via the touchscreen display. The optional Porsche Adaptive Suspension lets you choose from Normal or Sports mode - sport is more at home on a race track as you feel every imperfection in the road and we all know how bad some of our roads are in the UK. Owners will really relish driving this car down some country roads as it really feels planted to the road and there is

part leather upholstery, digital radio, parking sensors and heated seats as standard. For me the car needs large alloy wheels and the excellent PDK gearbox. They are priced from £40k for the base 718 and the S comes in at £49k - but believe me when I say they can become really expensive once you start ticking the options on the spec sheet.

If you are looking for a well-engineered two seater coupe the Cayman is still the best car by miles and you can’t help smiling after every drive.

Car supplied by Porsche Newcastle.

JAN/FEB17

Porsche recommends

Please leave the roundabout at the 37th exit.

The new 718 Cayman. For the sport of it.

Discover more: porsche.co.uk/718

and

Porsche Centre Newcastle Silverlink Park Wallsend Newcastle upon Tyne NE28 9ND 0191 295 1234 info@porschenewcastle.co.uk www.porschenewcastle.co.uk

Official fuel economy figures for the 718 Cayman S in l/100km (mpg): Urban 10.7-9.5 (26.4-29.7); Extra Urban 6.5-6.0 (43.5-47.1); Combined 8.1-7.3 (34.9-38.7). CO2 emissions in g/km 184-167.

The fuel economy and CO2 figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results, are provided for comparability purposes only and may not reflect your actual driving experience.

928-10572 PAdv_NEW 718 Cayman 157x216_Newcastle.indd 1

20/06/2016 13

DOGGY DIARIES

POSH POOCHES with Alfie, helped by Elysia Agnew

Happy New Year We bring in 2017 with fabulous fitspo for yourself and your furry friend; cosy winter outerwear, health and wellbeing products and delicious, dog-friendly afternoon tea. The new year is all about perfecting the feel good factor and what better way than to set out a plan for a healthier, more active lifestyle?

Our luxe pooch has also picked out some of the savviest accessories and products for your daily walks, day trips and for weekends away.

The Egerton House Hotel in London is our top pick this winter for a delicious weekend getaway complete with a pooch-pleasing service including homemade dog biscuits, dog-friendly ice cream and forever memories. It’s a place where contemporary canine cuisine meets lavish luxury. And what’s more? The tasty afternoon tea experience can be finished off with a trip to the pet spa.

Once the fitness, health and wellbeing regime is in order, it’s time to seek out some holiday inspiration. Check in for the next issue where Alfie will enjoy his first holiday of the year - a trip to a lovely doggy friendly boutique hotel in the Cotswolds.

Wrap up warm folks!

Alfie loves: A new year means time to get fit - and it might well be that walking is your four legged friend’s favourite activity. Alfie picks out some savvy accessories to keep your pooch warm outdoors and pampered post-walk as we break into the new year…

Hiro + Wolf, Solar Yellow Reflective Flower £8.50; www.hiro-and-wolf.com Pure Light Botanics, Original Organic Dog Shampoo with Cedarwood £12.50; www.store.styletails.com

Alfie, your Luxe Pooch x

Afternoon Tea at The Egerton House Hotel If you fancy eating out on location with your posh pooch, this ultra luxe five star hotel in the heart of Knightsbridge is now offering a brand new afternoon tea experience, specially created for our four legged friends.

The Doggy Afternoon Tea is served in The Egerton’s elegant Drawing Room, and includes a pooch-pleasing selection of treats, such as homemade dog biscuits, dog-friendly ice cream and a special chew toy to take home for happy memories of this tasty experience.

Human guests can also enjoy their own afternoon tea, boasting an assortment of delicate finger sandwiches and pastries, freshly baked scones and an extensive selection of JING teas and coffees.

Overseen by a dedicated Pet Concierge, other (Very Important Pet) amenities include an embroidered pet towel, dog

sitting and walking services, a grooming service, toys, treats, puppy breakfast and an incredible pet spa day experience.

So if you’re heading for the capital this year, take you pooch along with you for a luxury break with tasty tea and the very best of luxe living for your furry friend. www.egertonhousehotel.com

Keeping fit with your four legged friend

fit. They will run by your side as you burn calories on the bike.

We sometimes forget that our dogs are our best workout buddies - and the best motivators. While it might take us a while to persuade ourselves to throw on the fitness gear, our pooches are always more than happy to do so.

Keep yourself and your canine companion fit this year: Running - Your pooch will set the pace and will keep you going as they run by your side. They might even pick up the pace during flatter sections and ease off when climbing hills or turning corners, encouraging you to interval train.

Cycling - Off road cycling is the perfect activity to keep your and your furry friend

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The Rainbow Dog Coat in reversible Neoprene £90.99 - £93.99; www.alicefoxx.com

LoveMyDog, Stepney Dog Snood Yellow £25; www.store.styletails.com

Luxe Pooch Q&A Skyler is a beautiful miniature labradoodle aged nine months. She’s the Lady of the Hall, the perfect wedding planner and a pampered pooch all rolled into one. Alfie caught up with her over a roam in the grounds.

Dog yoga - Dog yoga involves teaching your pooch to express and hold specific body postures that will help them remain calm in all sorts of situations. The training also helps to create a better vocabulary understanding and compassion between the dog and human, as well as increasing muscle strength and body awareness. www.therealdogyoga.co.uk Muddy Dog Challenge 2017 - In association with Battersea Dogs & Cats home, this feel-good event is the UK’s first obstacle course where you can compete with your pooch. This year’s Muddy Dog Challenges will be taking place in Nottingham, Windsor, Essex and Kent - sign up now to show off your joint fitness. www.battersea.org.uk

LUXE WALKS >> I love to hop, skip and jump my way through Rudby Hall’s wild flower bank by the river. It’s very pretty all year round, but my favourite time is spring when I can jump in and out of the daffs.

POOCH’S PERFECT DAY OUT >> France! I have family out there that I really love to visit as often as possible.

DOGGY DOWNTIME >> Cuddling with the children after a nice long walk.

HOUND HABITS >> I roll over and lie on my back, waiting to be tickled. And it works every time!

PUPPY PAMPER >> Just for Dogs in Stokesley for a healthy hydrotherapy treatment now and again.

DOG’S BEST FRIEND >> Our tamed parrot, Monty. He tweets away and we keep each other company when our human family is out, or busy hosting beautiful weddings.

FONDEST DOGGY MEMORY >> Jumping in my sister’s arms when we first met. It was love at first sight.

PUPPY A-LISTER. WHO WOULD YOU BE IF YOU WERE A CELEBRITY? >> I’m the Lady of the House - so any royalty.

Don’t forget to send in pics of your pooch for our next issue via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram…

Facebook: www.facebook.com/luxemag, twitter: @TheLuxeMagazine or @LuxeyPooch Instagram: theluxemagazine

JAN/FEB17

A WOOD IDEA GREAT IDEAS IN WOOD FLOORING & DOORS

WOOD FLOORING DOORS STUNNING STAIRCASES

“Now that’s a Wood

Idea”

Unit 4, Blaydon Trade Park, Toll Bridge Road, Blaydon, Tyne & Wear, NE21 5TR T: 0191 414 1300 F: 0191 414 1306 www.awoodidea.com

GRAND DESIGNS

TREND WATCH with Chris Stocks, Pol Kefton Premium Design The team work to create a grand and inviting space, inside and out

Classic meets contemporary Interior design isn’t only about a room or a building. It’s about environment, too.

Surroundings can be the key to the final design or the overall feel of a building and often the challenge is to combine a contemporary interior with a traditional exterior.

We’ve recently put this into practice working with Sean Pringle of Pringle Building Services on the St James’ Place project by Dacre Street Developments. The exciting new development of St James Place, Dacre Street lies only 200 metres from the town centre of Morpeth - a town steeped in history, but also rich in modern convenience.

The development calls on Georgian architecture for its external influences with classical columns, grand, elongated windows and balconies which really reflect the beauty and elegance of that architectural period.

The grounds of the building are as stately and impressive as the walls that look down on them, with both front and rear landscaped gardens providing a calming and relaxing environment.

This is key, as it is imperative that exterior design is as closely considered as interior design.

This is a prime example of how design must be considered from all angles; whether it be the architectural design of the building, the location, or the materials used to create the finished article.

The Pol Kefton team worked with Paul Conn from PJC Architecture and Pringle Building Services on a brief that needed to integrate contemporary living of the highest standard within a timeless environment, reflected by the exterior of the building.

The contemporary interiors offer up a bold contrast to the grand classical exterior. The interior makes the most of high ceilings and light-flooded rooms from the grand windows.

St James’ Place is a superb example of the timelessness of transitional design.

This is how to make it work >> >> Grand Georgian entrance doors, providing a unique and impressive way to greet guests into your home. >> The contemporary design played on natural light and open space. >> Timber windows, traditionally styled. In this case, supplied by Bereco. Situated above and below, this helped to further set apart the style of the house from modern housing and place it closer to the Georgian buildings in Kensington that inspired it. >> Quality German kitchen furniture with Siemens appliances, Silestone quartz work surfaces and Quooker boiling hot water tap. >> The colour pallete and material choices are important considerations to create a spacious, open plan living environment and interior elements such as decoration and floor finishes were chosen by Wansbeck Flooring.

>> Muted tones contribute to the relaxing environment that the kitchen sits within. >> Attention to detail in aspects such as oak staircases creating a grand yet homely welcome to residents and guests. >> Finally, the fittings in each room are of the highest quality. The bathrooms are made complete by Villeroy Boch.

In every aspect of this development, quality has been of paramount importance.

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

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

Arcade Studio Unit 16/17 Sanderson Arcade, Morpeth, Ne61 1Ns Telephone: 01670 503869

JAN/FEB17

tory OMES

START THE NEW YEAR IN STYLE Story Homes have an impressive collection of beautiful developments throughout the North East, building in sought after locations including Middleton St George, Wynyard and Stainsby, Middlesbrough.

Reserve your dream home this January for just £99. Find out more at storyhomes.co.uk or call 0191 226 7260

B U ILDING HI G H Q U A LI T Y

HOMES SINCE

1987

LUXE LIFE

JEN BERNARD

Jen Bernard is founder and managing director of Bernard Interiors based in Ponteland, Northumberland. The luxury interior design company specialises in high end care, retirement and residential developments across the UK. Jen’s infectious energy, creativity and effortless attention to detail are the driving force behind the success of Bernard Interiors. www.bernardinteriors.co.uk

LUXE PEOPLE >> My 18-month-old son William who is a bundle of energy and makes me smile; my team at Bernard Interiors who are my extended family and continually support me; my perfect partner Paul, a marine engineer, and my fantastic parents who are just round the corner.

LUXE PLACES >> For a weekend > Escaping to our family holiday home on the Northumberland coast, long walks on the beach, a real fire, seeing friends up there and generally switching off from work and city life.

A long holiday > With family and friends in Majorca. Reading the paper whilst indulging in a continental breakfast at Cappuccino and barbecues with lots of fresh seafood. Paul and William spend time looking at the boats in the marina, we love going out on a boat for picnics too. Plus a few cultural trips to Palma to visit the art galleries. It’s just a really relaxed, laidback time. Any sort of routine for William goes out of the window on holiday.

A treat > A weekend in Venice for Paul and I.

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With time to get ready and dress up to go and eat in expensive, elegant restaurants.

Enjoying conversation, shopping and culture….child free!

LUXE RELAX >> Best food > I love French food. From a young age I spent a lot of time in France staying with French families and I like the way of life, the importance of eating together as a family.

Best wine > Fleurie or Cotes du Rhone.

When we were kids my parents travelled around the French vineyards whilst on holiday to buy wine and I vividly remember my sister and I packed in the car surrounded by crates of wine on the journey home!

Favourite restaurant > Villa Italia in Andratx is lovely and there’s Cafe Flo in Richmond, whenever we go to see international rugby.

There are so many new restaurants emerging in Newcastle it’s hard to choose, it’s becoming very cosmopolitan here.

Perfect weekend > Socialising with family and friends, food and wine, ideally outdoors. Either a long lunch or an early dinner, my new ‘mummy mantra’ is ‘start

early, finish early’!

Downtime means > Downtime - what is that?

Best telly > The Crown is my latest obsession because of the sets, dialogue and costumes. It gives an insight into the monarchy and the Queen’s life.

Best book > I enjoyed reading the Bill Bryson books, but as a visual person I’m really looking for pictures so interiors books, design books and recipe books are my thing.

Best sounds > Currently Gregory Porter.

Mostly soul and jazz. There’s nothing like live music, the last concert I went to was Ruby Turner at Sage Gateshead.

LUXE SHOP >> Best shopping city > There are so many London, Rome. I’ve no time for city shopping at the moment so it’s net-a-porter. com and since William came along slightly less expensive high street shops like Zara or M&S. Favourite shop > net-a-porter.com Luxe retail treat > A new pair of shoes. My favourite shoes are my Jimmy Choo black patent Romy pumps - a classic.

Best buy > A Gucci handbag I bought in Rome ten years ago. It’s tired and battered and I still love it.

LUXE PARTY >> A memorable night out > That was quite recently at Dabbawal with friends, three couples who all have small children. We made the most of the opportunity to have a ‘grown up’ night out without the kids, it was really three nights rolled into one, the bar bill was double the food bill! We had a great night.

Perfect party > Hosted by Northumberland friends who love a good knees up, lasting into the small hours.

Best dress/favourite item of clothing > Any of the designer ones in my wardrobe which I can’t fit into anymore or I don’t have the occasion to wear just now.

Dinner date > The last date night with Paul at Peace & Loaf. We had a lovely leisurely meal and conversation. Just perfect.

YOUR LUXE THING IN LIFE >> Right now it’s time - more hours in the day please and most definitely longer weekends.

JAN/FEB17

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Stairs, scares and scaffolding Willow House in the Yorkshire Dales looks sweet and charming now – but renovating the place caused one seriously big headache along the way

Amanda Baker-Bird knew the furniture she’d bought to fill Willow House was perfect.

The stairs told a different story.

She’d planned to fill her interior design project in the Yorkshire Dales on the outskirts of Richmond with bespoke furniture and had ordered statement beds with bold headboards as well as a striking modern iron four poster.

When they came to be delivered there was, however, a serious sticking point.

“I realised that none of it would go up the stairs which are very narrow”, she recalls.

“My husband was appalled that I had not measured the furniture before I bought it to make sure that it would fit in the house. As a consequence we had to erect scaffolding at the back of the house and all of the furniture had to be brought into the house from the only window it would fit through which was one of the bedroom windows on the very top floor.”

The iron beds had to be cut so that they would fit through the window and welded back together in the bedrooms.

“If we ever sell the house we will have to sell the furniture with the house as my husband has refused point blank to ever move the furniture in the house again!”.

The pain was worth it though - now Willow House stands proud and impressive, having been brought back to life as a holiday rental property.

When Amanda started the project the mellow stone property was in a sorry state. It had been on the market for three years and was very much ‘a project’.

“The house had not been loved for a long time and water had been running down the front of the house from blocked gutters – this made the interior feel damp, many of the walls had turned black and wallpaper was peeling off ”, remembers Amanda.

The heating system had failed and had to be replaced and other major work required included re-wiring, new plumbing and new floors. Two bathrooms were increased to five and the entire house was re-plastered and decorated.

For Amanda, who has an interest in property renovation and interior design, it was an exciting time. For her former dairy farmer husband, less so.

“He is incredibly practical and can turn his hand to all sorts of renovation works and he and his team did the majority of the renovation works. It took us four months of serious hard work and long hours”, she says.

Armed with Farrow & Ball paint -charts Amanda planned and designed all the interior works over the property’s three elegant floors.

“I love the contemporary but ‘not too modern’ look and so it was easy for me to do the interior design - I just choose all the things I would like in my own house!

“Furniture came from all over the country, often chosen over the internet which I trawled every night for months usually into the early hours of the morning.”

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TALL TALES

The details Sitting room: Peacock blue sofas gather around a roaring open fire.

Open plan kitchen/dining room: Original Yorkshire flagstone floors and up-cycled church pews. An orangery provides an atmospheric dining space when lit with candles.

Bedrooms: Six bedrooms in Willow House enjoy views over the village and each have been individually styled with feature beds.

The top floor of the house is home to two master bedrooms with luxurious open-plan bathrooms featuring either a free-standing bath or a large walk-in shower.

Downstairs double patio doors lead to enclosed gardens with a patio area for al fresco dining and with a wood-fired hot-tub.

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JAN/FEB17

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LUXE LOVES Warm thoughts Whatever your take on Valentine’s Day it’s tricky not to fall in love with these cuddle-giving merino throws, £124. www.tollymcrae.co.uk

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JAN/FEB17

STOP TO SHOP

Stokesley

This country market town enjoys a relaxed, luxe lifestyle flanked with lovely independent shops, bespoke businesses and delicious dining spots

Cooper & Barr Opticians 35-37 High St, Stokesley TS9 5AD Tel 01642 710 832 www.cooperandbarr.co.uk Your glasses can define who you are more than anything else, so when selecting your next pair of glasses you’ll want frames that will complement your look, your personality and suit your lifestyle perfectly. Our team of eyewear experts are on hand to help and advise you when choosing your new glasses, so that as well as being able to see brilliantly, your frames will fit comfortably, and of course you’ll look fabulous!

We’ve sourced a great collection of stylish frames designed in Europe and America that you won’t find in many high street opticians.

Combined with Nikon lenses, we’re sure we have the perfect glasses for you.

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Vitality Complete Dental Practice 21 High St, Stokesley TS9 5AD Tel 01642 712 519 www.vitalitydentalpractice@gmail.com Vitality Dental Care, Stokesley, operates independently from the NHS and aims to provide the treatment YOU want at a price you can afford.

Routine private dental treatment is at the heart of Vitality Dental Practice with flexible dental plans from only £13 per month.

You’ll find our service gentle, friendly and affordable. Feel at ease in our stylish and relaxing surroundings, ideally located next to HSBC Bank with ample free parking.

Treatment offered includes dental implants, orthodontics including Invisalign braces, sedation, facial aesthetics treatments and a range of cosmetic treatments from whitening to white fillings to crowns and veneers.

Millbry Hill The Mill, Levenside, Stokesley TS9 5BH Tel 01642 711 028 www.millbryhill.co.uk No visit to Stokesley would be complete without a trip to Millbry Hill, the country store that oozes rural style. Packed to its original timber rafters with the very best of British, the store is nestled behind the High Street, in a centuries-old mill close to the banks of the River Leven. It’s the destination store for country-loving customers from across North Yorkshire, offering designer clothing, gifts and footwear for the whole family as well as the widest range of pet and equestrian products in the area.

JAN/FEB17

STOP TO SHOP

GSC Grays Natural Heat Stoves The Yorkshire Store 45 High St, Stokesley TS9 5AD Tel 01642 713 646 www.theyorkshirestore.co.uk An independent retailer based in Stokesley, North Yorkshire which has been trading for just over 25 years and Rachel has been the owner for nearly 4 years.

As well as being a stockist of Whitestuff and Seasalt Rachel has recently introduced Avoca and the very charming Maileg mice and Bunnies to the store.

Supporting local artists and traders makes the store a unique and pleasurable quirky shopping experience.

69-71 High Street, Stokesley TS9 5BQ Tel 01642 714 380 www.naturalheatstoves.co.uk Natural Heat Stoves is a small family business, we supply and fit wood burning stoves and open fires we also service and repair all natural wood burning stoves.

We deal with all major stove manufacturers offering a wide variety of contemporary and traditional appliances to suit every home.

Different fuels and different burning technologies pose specific requirements for the extraction of emissions and need to be addressed accordingly.

All systems are installed and tested by skilled technicians to guarantee compliance with the rules and regulations governing the industry.

26-28 High St, Stokesley TS9 5DQ Tel 01642 710 742 www.gscgrays.co.uk Our Stokesley office is located on the bustling high street of this historic Georgian market town, boasting stunning views of the Cleveland Hills. We cover a large local area throughout the Hambleton District, serving our picturesque neighbouring villages and stretching to the rural areas nestled within the North Yorkshire Moors National Park and towards the Coast.

We have a friendly, dedicated and pro-active team, with local knowledge, who can provide you with a full range of professional property services and whether you are thinking of buying, selling or renting a property, our professional NAEA qualified staff can offer a dynamic and professional approach to provide you with quality innovative advice.

With the River Leven running through it, Stokesley is a beautiful rural retreat perfect for a light lunch or an afternoon browsing the shops

The Blackwell Ox Inn and Holiday Lodge Park The Mill Springfield, Stokesley TS9 5ER Tel 01642 711028 www.the-mill-pub.co.uk We are an award winning, modern pub ideally located in the centre of the stunning, thriving market town of Stokesley, nestled at the foot of the North York moors.

We specialise in serving high quality food and drink with a friendly, family atmosphere, all our food is cooked from scratch to order so if there is something you don’t like let us know and we will happily adjust any dish to suit your taste buds! Our beer garden is a perfect place to relax and spend the sunny days and we have ample free car parking. We also have daily offers.

JAN/FEB17

Carlton in Cleveland, Stokesley TS9 7DJ Tel 01642 712 287 www.blackwellox.co.uk The Blackwell Ox Inn and Holiday Lodge Park is a traditional, welcoming country pub, which serves food with a difference.

We offer authentic Thai cuisine, a range of light meals and traditional English dishes.

Privately owned and with considerable character and charm, The Blackwell Ox at Carlton in Cleveland is an ideal venue for the discerning diner. A large, safe children’s adventure play area is available for the warmer months.

Boasting panoramic views of the Cleveland Hills, this small cluster of brand new luxury lodges sits in the grounds of The Blackwell Ox, perfect for couples and families wishing to explore the glorious North York Moors.

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LUXE LOCAL

Helmsley

A charming, warm and friendly market town treasured for its unique independent businesses, its celebration of local produce and its country-chic reputation. A perfectly picturesque journey over the North York Moors will bring you straight into Helmsley’s market square. Go there for quaint tearooms, cosy pubs, stress-free shopping, delicious delis and scenic strolls PROPERTIES >> Helmsley lures us in with its lovely-looking country properties. It’s stripped back of all things superficial, maintaining its country charm, yet still embodies luxury living in terms of its shopping, dining and property scene. Helmsley doesn’t fall short of country character, but it also boasts everything from old-world manor houses and quaint cottages, to flash flats, new builds and beautiful bungalows.

A £1m price tag will find you detached houses comprising private grounds and stunning country views; while quaint, country cottages on the outskirts of town are around the £400,000 mark. Local Helmsley estate agents include Boulton & Cooper Stephensons and Dundalls RFAS Ltd, where agents will help you find a wide selection of stunning properties in and around this area.

A YO62 postcode will give you exclusive, contemporary-meets-country-chic living in this well-connected market town close to the A19.

It’s the perfect base to browse the likes of York, Thirsk, Northallerton and all the lovely

villages in between. Whether you’re visiting, renting or buying in this area, you’re in for a treat - it’s the perfect gateway to all that North Yorkshire has to offer.

CONNECTED >> Helmsley is served by 21 local bus routes to surrounding villages, towns and cities including York, Easingwold, Barrowclife, Northallerton and Middlesbrough. A beautiful, scenic drive over the moors will take you straight into Stokesley and its surrounding villages: Great Broughton, Great Ayton and Carlton to name a but a few. Close (ish) to the A19 and to Thirsk and Northallerton for East Coast trains. Nearest airport, LeedsBradford.

SHOP >> Helmsley is an incredibly pleasant shopping destination among many other things. Packed with delis, gift shops, fashion boutiques and galleries. But what’s a market town without a traditional weekly market? Serving the folk of Helmsley and beyond for almost 600 years, the Friday market brings the beautiful town to life. If rummaging around quaint, country

stalls is your thing, make sure you check it out. A fine mix of artisan gifts, household goods and foodie favourites. The Friday market is complemented by a craft fair held in the town hall.

Pick up treats and trinkets at the town’s many gift and sweet treat shops including White Rose Gifts, Bowley & Jacksons and the forever favourite Helmsley Traditional Sweet Shop - a small family business selling sweet somethings to the people of Helmsley. For all things fashion, interiors and jewellery, make sure you visit The Snooty Fox - a country inspired designer boutique where you can pick up something truly unique for yourself, or for your home. There is, of course, Browns Department Store - at the very heart of Helmsley’s Market Place. Operating for over 100 years, this family-owned business offers ladies fashion and accessories, menswear and a much-loved linen department. For some winter warmers to see you through to spring, visit Millers Tale, a ladies fashion store showcasing cosy gilets and fabulous fur numbers.

For foodie fans there is Hunters of Helmsley - an award-winning delicatessen and Britain’s

Best Small Shop in 2015. Pop in and you’ll see why - it’s an Aladdin’s Cave of fantastic food and drink treasures, with a wide selection of tasty produce and perfect products for gifts and treats.

FOOD >> Check-in for a lovely afternoon tea at The Black Swan. It’s a cosy, country comfort retreat complete with roaring fires, delicious cuisine and a traditional Yorkshire tea room.

Visitors can enjoy a fabulous afternoon tea packed with savoury sandwiches, scones and sweet treats. An endless list of hot, cold and alcoholic beverages and Cygnet speciality teas top off the high-tea experience.

For yummy, seasonal baked treats, Cinnamon

my local SARAH WOOD IS MANAGER OF HUNTERS OF HELMSLEY, A DELICATESSEN IN THE HEART OF THE TOWN’S MARKET PLACE. Three good things about living here >> I love the independent shops we have in such lovely, scenic surrounds. It’s also nice to see so many friendly faces 50% of our visitors are repeat customers.

Three places you take visitors >> I always bring them to Hunters for some lunch and goodies of course, followed by a lovely walk around Duncombe Park and a scenic stroll around the walled gardens.

An ‘in the know’ secret >> Come here with an appetite - we serve Yorkshire portions! www.huntersofhelmsley.com

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LUXE LOCAL

PROPERTY WATCH WITH DUNCAN YOUNG

Twist is Helmsley’s fabulous foodie haven.

Artisan bread, rustic recipes, croissants to die for and a sweet selection of cakes will have you ditching those new year diets.

For something to make you feel a little less guilty, head to Thundercliffes Fishmonger a local family business offering fresh fish from the Yorkshire Coast and beyond.

With over 30 years in the trade, you’ll be able to bag the biggest shellfish in the region, including a beautiful offering of local lobster and crab.

STROLL >> The famous Cleveland Way National Trail begins in Helmsley, following a horseshoe loop around the North York Moors and

Yorkshire coast for 110 miles. But if you’re here for a short stroll around town, there’s still plenty of choice.

Follow the remains of Helmsley Castle that flank the market town or browse the landscaped gardens of Duncombe Park one of Yorkshire’s foremost historic estates, home to the Duncombe family.

Set slightly out of town, Rievaulx Abbey boasts gothic architecture and an insight into the fascinating past of the monks who once lived there.

The abbey is home to an elegant artefact museum, perfect for a rainy day. But to embrace the outdoors, wander the extensive ruins and pick up an audio tour to learn about medieval life.

property: three to choose Country-chic cottage A deceptively spacious family home surrounded by delightful gardens. Inside, a stunning stone fireplace in the living area is a key feature, adding to the country cottage style. For £425,000 you’ll benefit from three spacious double bedrooms (two with en-suite facilities), a fully-fitted kitchen, three reception rooms, family bathroom and an additional family room on the second floor.

www.rightmove.co.uk

Bungalow beauty This charismatic, refurbished bungalow boasts a world of contemporary living at its best. Sleek and stylish living spaces inside are backed by the beautiful stone walls. For £340,000 you get three bedrooms, an open-plan kitchen with zinc and copper tones, and lovely outside space.

www.onthemarket.com

A FRESH NEW START May I first of all take this opportunity to wish all of the readers of this magazine a very prosperous and healthy 2017. Here in the property world, we are looking forward to hopefully steady market conditions throughout the next 12 months. The most important short term decision, will be that of the Supreme Court judges on the question of Brexit and whether the House of Commons has to be consulted to trigger Article 50. Hopefully we will know this decision by mid-January.

The housing market has a heavy reliance upon confidence and confidence is often established from a general feel-good factor from the economy. The current value of properties throughout the region remains at a very sensible level in comparison to prices 10 years ago and it will be 10 years in September 2017 that we will remember the effects of the banking crisis and locally, the impact of the Northern Rock news.

Over the last ten years, the economy has slowly regained confidence and we have seen house prices stabilize and in certain parts of the region increase in value, particularly those popular residential areas of Jesmond, Gosforth and Newcastle and some coastal hotspots, ie: Bamburgh, Beadnell and Alnmouth.

Throughout the whole of the region, prices are a lot more stable now and demand has increased.

My forecast for 2017 welcomes a number of new homes sites and my company in particular will be very busy this year, working with a number of regional developers on some prime locations.

Late March 2017 sees the launch of our highly acclaimed and very exciting new homes development site at Smiths Dock in North Shields. Our clients, which include Places for People and Urban Splash, are going to create some of the most exciting new styles of living throughout the North East of England. We are launching townhouses on the plateau in the early spring and will have 34 of these properties for sale, followed later in the year by the building of a development to be known as the Smokehouses, which will consist of 80 apartment-style properties close to the waterfront.

We also welcome in 2017 an exclusive development of 11 houses in Jesmond, working alongside our client Arch Developments, who are developing the former Barnardo’s home site, off Burton Terrace, into a beautiful scheme of 11 luxury houses.

We continue to sell the remaining properties available in Hexham at Hexham Gate and in Ponteland at Mill Rise, both of which have been extremely popular, and January sees the opening of the new show apartment at Mill Rise.

The new homes stock is essential, given that so very few new homes have been built in the last decade because of the lack of confidence in the economy. It is now clear that planning permissions granted by the local councils will be executed quickly, increasing people’s choice of where they live and can afford.

Here at Sanderson Young, we will continue to innovate the estate agency market, leading with the investment we have made in new software throughout the company and a refurbishment of some of the offices and their window displays.

I hope that my monthly video blog and newsletter will increase people’s knowledge of what is happening in the housing market on a regular basis, so that they can be fully informed.

With my very best wishes for an exciting year ahead.

If I can help you in any way possible, please do not hesitate to contact me by email Duncan.young@sandersonyoung.co.uk

A royal retreat A lavish country estate in an idyllic location.

Beckdale House is steeped in history, built in the 1920s as the home of the Sixth Lord Feversham and family. Inside find a sweeping oak staircase leading to a galleried landing with five reception rooms offering a huge choice of luxe entertaining space. Outside there are landscaped gardens, a heated outdoor swimming pool and hot tub. £3,000,000.

www.struttandparker.com JAN/FEB17

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

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Hallington Hall Hallington, Near Corbridge

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Hallington Hall is a magnificent Grade II Listed Georgian country house, imaginatively renovated with the utmost attention to detail. This outstanding home occupies a private setting amidst 60 acres which include formal grounds, woodland, paddocks and three separate cottages.

Price Guide ÂŁ4.95 Million Ashleigh Sundin ashleigh.sundin@sandersonyoung.co.uk rare! Office: 0191 223 3500 From Sanderson Young

www.sandersonyoung.co.uk

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Kenton Avenue Gosforth

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This fabulous detached family home in the heart of Gosforth has been extensively renovated to a very high standard. It has a newly built double-storey extension, and a single-storey replacement of the former garage, to create a luxury leisure wing with swimming pool.

Price Guide ÂŁ999,500 Ashleigh Sundin ashleigh.sundin@sandersonyoung.co.uk rare! Office: 0191 223 3500 From Sanderson Young

www.sandersonyoung.co.uk

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ASHES TO ASHES

Red hot North East chef Andrew Richardson is setting Vancouver alight with a talked-about restaurant that takes wood-fired cooking to another level. A new book explores his culinary journey. Kathryn Armstrong caught up with him on a visit back home

Andrew Richardson is on a visit home to family in Sunderland and, having been away for a few years, is taking stock of the region’s culinary landscape.

With long-time friend and colleague Terry Laybourne (they started out at the famous 21 Queen Street together), Andrew’s ‘cook's tour’ stops for lunch at Staith House in North Shields where chef John Calton is at the helm; “lovely local game, great grouse, good fish – nice to see such impressive local produce on the menu", concurs Andrew.

He is wowed by the goings-on in Fenwick Food Hall; “It is really nice to see the progress being made in the city in terms of food – and good to see the guys at Saltwater.

“The nice thing is walking around Newcastle and seeing so much going on. I’ve got mates at Arlo in Jesmond and the Biscuit Factory, really impressed by it all”, he admits, not forgetting Sunderland: “My dad is in Sunderland, I went to see him and I drove by the fish quay – the fish market there is astonishingly good, I was blown away by the range and quality of fish they sell.”

His culinary buddies are basically alumni of the ‘class of 21 Queen Street’; a collective of chefs who trained with Terry Laybourne and now span restaurants across the region, and, like Andrew, the globe. Often taking with them signature dishes which are imprinted on the inner menu of every North East food-lover. The ham hock terrine, the twice-baked soufflé…

“When I worked with Terry we did the classics – that cheese soufflé I cooked for 20 years and I thought I’d had enough of it but at the restaurant in Vancouver we did a version of it with Italian cheese – and customers can’t get enough of it! It is now a classic for us and we couldn’t take it off – so it is nice to be able to refresh those classics for a new audience.”

Andrew trained at 21 Queen Street and worked at Bistro 21 in Durham before heading off to Vancouver in 1999.

He then worked in a range of Michelin-standard restaurants in Canada until California’s Napa Valley beckoned, then it was a move to Whistler in Canada where he was executive chef for acclaimed restaurant, Araxi, a pioneer in farm-to-table dining. He worked at The French Laundry, and then moved to Calgary to open the top-rated Blink as part owner.

After nine years away, Andrew returned to the North East and spent time in the kitchens at Jesmond Dene House, anticipating being joined by girlfriend Lesley, also in the hospitality business.

But before she could come over, she was involved in a serious car accident in Canada – and this meant that Andrew headed back to Canada for her recovery.

His career path then brought him to the Toptable Group which owns a tranche of stylesetting restaurants where he now operates as executive chef at CinCin Ristorante.

Here the wood-fired oven takes pride of place. It is a thing of beauty in bold, steel, firey kind of way, a ‘behemoth’ of cooking equipment.

Think Chiltern Firehouse in London, only Andrew was there first.

The concept is a simple one – fine ingredients enhanced by the grill; as Andrew says; “pretty much everything in the restaurant is touched by fire.”

That might mean a scallop or a peach, a leg of lamb or an entire fish. You can cook fierce or you can do delicate, such is the control of the flame available to the chef.

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“The grill is the beating heart of the restaurant. I am blessed to have amazing ingredients available to me. I think as a chef that with time you simplify what you do – where I am working I have phenomenal produce to work with. Wild mushrooms, mountain herbs and great fish from the oceans. With wood-fired cooking you can enjoy the natural flavours.

Andrew’s cookbook, CinCin: Wood-Fired Cucina, tells the story of the installation of the grill and the development of the kitchen’s dishes following it.

A piece of fish might be cooked on the stove but an accompaniment or a salad dressing might have smoked orange juice as an ingredient – he will roast whole oranges in the embers until blackened and uses the smoked juice inside.

He is inspired by Argentinian chef Francis Mallamann, something of an expert on gauchostyle barbecuing.

As a guest chef at CinCin the pair of them made a fire on the street outside of the restaurant and grilled into the night.

Andrew adds: “I believe in simplicity, and the interaction of absolutely prime ingredients on the plate—the passionata, as the Italians say. Less is often more.”

CinCin: Wood-Fired Cucina (Figure 1 Publishing, 2016) by Andrew Richardson.

JAN/FEB17

ASHES TO ASHES

FOOD LIFE >> A childhood food memory >> My mother used to make pizza when we were kids. I'd go upstairs looking for clothes that had been washed – they would usually be hanging in the airing cupboard. There, in amongst the clothes would be the bread dough for the pizza - proofing.

The last meal you ate >> Scrambled eggs with truffle. November is truffle month at CinCin – we have an abundance of both black and white truffle in the kitchen. Sometimes on a morning when I get into the kitchen early before anyone arrives I'll make myself scrambled eggs on toast with fresh grated truffle!!!!

Restaurant you return to time and again >> When I come back to England my first stop is usually London. I love to go to the River Café on Thames Wharf. I've been going ever since Terry Laybourne sent me for a stage about 17 years ago. I live in Vancouver and San Francisco is close. I go frequently and never miss out on Tartine and the bar at the Slanted Door.

Memorable meal >> McCoys the Tontine, the downstairs bistro. About 30 years ago I ate poached halibut with a langoustine jus and girolle mushrooms – I can still taste it.

Inspirational chef >> We did an event with Francis Mallmann two years ago. I admire his free approach to cooking. His mind is open to any and all possibilities. Cooking with fire is a daily challenge and he approaches it with so much thought and intelligence.

Favourite drink >> Coffee - first thing in the morning. I grind it fresh every day to make a French press. I enjoy tasting different brands and roasts.

Favourite ingredient >> Parmesan cheese.

Favourite meal >> Pizza with a big glass of chianti.

Last meal >> If I was to go tomorrow? Jamon Iberico de bellota with bread, olive oil, tomatoes, a nice piece of parmesan, Spanish Bay of Biscay anchovies and some nocellara olives – or a shepherds pie like my mother used to make.

Over for the recipes from Andrew's book...

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AHES TO ASHES Classic Vinaigrette Makes 13⁄4 cups (425ml) 13⁄4 cups (310ml) extra virgin olive oil 1 2 ⁄ cup (125 ml) champagne or white wine vinegar Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper Whisk the oil and vinegar together. Season with salt and pepper.

Conscous with Golden Raisins 1 tbsp (15ml) golden raisins 1 2 ⁄ cup (125ml) couscous (31⁄2oz / 100g) 1 2 ⁄ tsp (2.5ml) salt 11⁄2 tsp (7.5ml) olive oil 1 2 ⁄ cup (125ml) boiling water, for the couscous Zest of 1⁄2 lemon 2 tsp (10ml) fresh lemon juice 2 tsp (10ml) Classic Vinaigrette 1 tbsp (15ml) chopped fresh mint Place the raisins in a bowl. Pour boiling water over them to cover by 2 times their volume. Cool to room temperature, and drain off the water.

Put the couscous, salt and olive oil in a nonreactive bowl. Pour over the 1⁄2 cup (125 ml) boiling water, stir and quickly cover with plastic wrap. Allow to stand for 13 minutes.

Fluff the couscous with a fork. Mix in the lemon zest and juice, vinaigrette, mint and soaked raisins.

Toasted Couscous 2 tsp (10ml) unsalted butter 11⁄4 cups (310ml) toasted couscous (you can buy it toasted) (9oz / 250g) 2 cups (500ml) water Sea salt Melt the butter in a small saucepan. Stir in the couscous, and immediately add the water and salt and turn the heat to high. When the mixture comes to a boil, lower the heat to a very gentle simmer, cover and cook for 12 minutes.

Remove from the heat, and transfer the couscous to a large nonreactive bowl. Fluff with a fork and season to taste with salt.

Combine with the other couscous and keep warm.

Soffritto

Chargrilled chicken with harissa — couscous two ways — golden raisins, rapini and soffritto — olive oil and lemon >> SERVES 4 Ingredients ⁄ cup (60ml) Soffritto 2 bunches rapini (about 20 stems) 4 lemons, quartered Juice of 2 lemons 21⁄4lbs (1kg) granulated sugar Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 8 cups (2l) water 2 sprigs fresh rosemary 10 sprigs fresh thyme, divided 1 fresh or dried bay leaf 24 cloves garlic, unpeeled One 31⁄2lb (1.6kg) chicken cut into 8 pieces (2 thighs, 2 drumsticks, each breast cut in half ) Extra virgin olive oil, for dressing chicken 1 tbsp (15ml) harissa paste 5 tbsp (75ml) extra virgin olive oil, divided 2 tbsp (30ml) unsalted butter 8 3-inch (8cm) sticks cinnamon

1 4

Method Prepare the classic vinaigrette, the two kinds of couscous and the soffritto.

Light a wood-fired barbecue, or preheat a gas or charcoal grill or cast-iron grill pan closer to the cooking time (while the chicken drains).

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Have ready a large bowl full of ice water. Cook the rapini until just tender, about 4 minutes. Submerge in the ice water to cool. Drain, pat dry and set aside.

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In a large pot, combine the lemon quarters, lemon juice, sugar, salt and pepper, water, rosemary, 2 sprigs of the thyme, bay leaf and garlic, and bring to a boil.

Immediately lower the heat to a gentle simmer, add the chicken drumsticks and thighs and cook for 15 minutes.

Add the breasts and cook for a further 10 minutes. Remove from the heat, and let cool in the stock for about 5 minutes.

Remove the chicken pieces from the stock, and drain on paper towels. Reserve the lemon pieces and garlic, and discard the stock.

Dress the chicken with a little olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Cook on the preheated grill, turning every few minutes to cook evenly, 4 to 5 minutes in total.

Remove the chicken from the grill, and spread a little harissa paste over each piece.

Heat 2 tbsp (30ml) of the olive oil and butter in a sauté pan. Add the cinnamon and the remaining 8 sprigs of thyme along with the lemon pieces and garlic from the stock. Cook until nicely caramelized, about 2 minutes.

In a separate sauté pan, heat the remaining 3 tbsp (45ml) olive oil, and add the cooked rapini with a pinch of salt.

Cook for 2 minutes. Add the soffritto and cook for a further 2 minutes, or until the rapini and soffritto start to stick to the bottom of the pan. Remove from the heat.

Reheat the couscous.

To serve, spoon some of the couscous mixture into the middle of each plate. Arrange 2 pieces of chicken on top along with the garlic, lemon, thyme and cinnamon sticks.

Scatter over 4 pieces of the rapini and soffritto, and drizzle with vinaigrette.

Soffritto is a building block for many Italian dishes.

It can be added to soups and stews and used with vegetables. It usually consists of tomato, onion and garlic, but can also contain carrots and celery.

The vegetables are cooked very slowly over a long period of time, usually in olive oil, to release their natural flavour.

Makes 1 cup (250ml) 4 cups (1l) diced white onions (13⁄4lbs / 800g), 1⁄4-inch (6mm) dice 1 cup (250ml) extra virgin olive oil Kosher salt One 14oz (398ml) can peeled San Marzano tomatoes 1 2 ⁄ tsp (2.5ml) minced garlic Store the soffritto and the oil in the fridge for up to one week.

Combine the onions, oil and a pinch of salt in a medium saucepan over low heat.

As soon as the oil starts to simmer, reduce the heat to low. Cook for 21⁄2 hours or until the onions are a rich golden brown. The oil should be perfectly clear.

Meanwhile, halve the tomatoes, and carefully remove the seeds by scraping the tomato with the back of your knife. Chop coarsely. Add to the onions and cook for another 2 to 21⁄2 hours. When the tomatoes and onions start to fry and separate from the clear oil, turn off the heat and add a pinch of salt and the minced garlic. Let the mixture cool in the pan.

Before using, drain off the oil (which you can use a second time).

Wine Note Try a beautiful Pinot Noir from Oregon called Angela. Choose a Pinot Noir from 2012, a stellar year. If you’re in the mood for white, try a Tuscan Chardonnay.

JAN/FEB17

Star trek

FOOD TRAVELS

With chef James Close of The Raby Hunt, proud owner of two Michelin stars

This year in Luxe, join James on a food journey that will take in people, places, tastes and recommendations – local and global.

above, Catch Bar left, Eataly NYC Flatiron Cheese Counter, image: Evan Joseph below, Gansevoort Hotel

Biting the Big Apple

New York is great destination for sights, sounds and experiences.

It wasn’t dining that lured me this time though; my reason was the mouth-watering prospect of a ring-side seat to see Conor McGregor’s UFC fight at Madison Gardens.

I’d give that every star going – an unreal experience, albeit brief. The man won, the night was memorable, triumphant and to be honest, hangover inducing. Not to mention getting caught up in Trump insanity two days after the election result.

Naturally we did a mini food tour whilst we were there. If you’re taking a trip anytime soon, try a bit of this:

Stay Gansevoort: In the stylish meatpacking district, this places offers up a rooftop pool with a city skyline view. Worthy of note - if you’re into your grooming - Glamour Bars in every room with loads of hair products and styling stuff. I didn’t partake…

Good if you’re into galleries and good shopping and the drama of this historic low-rise area. The hotel has great views of the Hudson.

Drink The Standard is a good spot for a plate of oysters and a bottle of champagne. The hotel is in a buzzy spot near the Highline.

Loved the evening after-work atmosphere of NoMad, a good socialising scene.

Snack Cosme – loved this place – ordered everything on the menu! Cosme is a restaurant in the Flatiron district which serves up contemporary Mexican-inspired cuisine. World-renowned chef Enrique Olvera and his team create dishes rooted in Mexican flavors and traditions, while also celebrating local and seasonal ingredients

JAN/FEB17

from the Hudson Valley and surrounding region. Standout dish was the slow-cooked short-rib with avocado and coriander rolled into tortillas.

Worth a visit

Meatpacking District, image: www.nycgo.com

Chelsea Market, image: www.nycgo.com

district from the water. Now it’s leafy, arty pedstrianised walkway starting in the heart of the Meatpacking District. We stopped off at a golf driving range and whacked some balls into the river trying to avoid the big yachts in the way.

Fine dining

Chelsea Market hall is amazing. In the Meatpacking district, it will make you food-lovers drool. The Lobster Place is spot-on for guess what? We feasted on sashimil lobster, tempura.

The market is a food trail of its own – you can go on NY food tours which bring you here.

It’s a place wringing with food authenticity – from tuna tartare, caviar and sake to the ultimate spicy chicken wings.

Eataly is somewhere you can spend the day eating all things Italian in past-paced suroundings and Catch Bar is also a good spot for a seafood blowout and good drinking.

On the side Since we got the second Michelin Star at Raby Hunt things have gone a bit mental. Every service is full so it’s full-on prep all week.

We’re working on a revamp of the kitchen and preparing to take part in Obsession 17 which is a food extravaganza, organised by Nigel Haworth at Northcote Manor. One of Europe’s premier gastronomic events, Obsession is celebrating its 17th year with 23 chefs sharing 16 Michelin stars between them and cooking for 17 nights. It happens from January 20 to February 5. www.northcote.com

Time Out When you’ve a hangover to shake off, a trip along the Highline does the job. This is a regenerated walkway along the Hudson that was once a rail line to the meat-packing

Eleven Madison Park is on the world’s Top 50 restaurants list and has three Michelin stars. Have to say it was one of the most disappointing meals I’ve ever eaten – it just felt a bit soul-less and empty – a standout caviar and potato dish memorable nevertheless.

The NoMad Bar, image: Benoit Linero

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SILKY SUPPER

Eat Seasonal WITH ANDREW WILKINSON OF ARTISAN

A wintry salad that’s big on rich, smoky flavours

We’re well and truly in the throes of winter, which can mean only one thing here in the artisan kitchen – comfort food. So for this edition, I’ve decided to share with you a very simple but filling winter salad recipe The smoked haddock fillet is the star ingredient of this dish, poached in milk for an extra creamy, rich flavour which beautifully offsets against the salty, smoky taste of the fish.

The addition of peppery watercress and a dash of mustard dressing help to elevate the flavours even further.

And who can resist the runny yolk of a poached egg, lacing the plate with a deliciously smooth texture?

For more seasonal foodie inspiration, look out for the return of our monthly Seasonal Showcases.

Artisan, The Biscuit Factory, Stoddart Street, Newcastle, NE2 1AN. Tel 0191 260 5411. www.artisannewcastle.com Twitter.com/Artisan_NE

Warm salad of heritage potatoes, smoked haddock and poached egg >> SERVES 4 Ingredients 500g smoked haddock (natural smoked) 1kg heritage potatoes 4 eggs Mustard dressing Baby watercress 1ltr milk 1 bay leaf Olive oil Splash of vinegar Black pepper Pinch of salt

Method Bring milk up to the boil, place in black pepper and bay leaf, then infuse. Drop in the smoked haddock and leave to poach.

Place potatoes in pan and bring to a simmer, cook until tender and drain.

After five minutes peel the skins off the potatoes and dress with olive oil and salt.

Bring boiling salted water up to the boil, add a splash of vinegar. Crack in the eggs and simmer for 3 minutes.

Garnish and assemble the dish as pictured.

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JAN/FEB17

A Valentine's Day feast inspiration

SWE E TS F OR MY SWE E T.

SHARE THE PLEASURE

Baska Slate Cheeseboard, £15; Coeur de Neufachâtel AOP, (Camembert style cheese), £4.99; Heart Godminster Cheddar, £5.99; Rock Rose Premium Scottish Gin, £35 Gold Bottega Prosecco, Magnum, £42; Pol Roger Vintage Champagne (2006), £59; Enamore Bodega Ranacer Mendoza, Argentina, £21; Montezuma's Chocolate Selection, £24.99; Charbonnel et Walker Personalised Milk Chocolate Champagne Truffles, £11.95; Fenwick Chocolates, 25 Piece, £25; Sugafina 3 Piece Bento Box, £22; Sugafina Champagne Gummy Bears (Large), £15.95; Sugafina Peach Bellini Hearts, £7; Artisan du Chocolat No. 14 Sea Salted Caramels, Passion Fruit, £16.95; Choi Time Giant Flowering Tea Bulbs, Thousand Year Red, £22.50. All from Fenwick Food Hall, Newcastle.

VALENTINE’S DINING WITH CREATIVE FLAIR If you’re looking to dine out somewhere special this Valentine’s Day, then look no further than artisan.

To book, call 0191 260 5411 WWW.ARTISANNEWCASTLE.COM

JAN/FEB17

Image: Sean Elliott

Our stylish restaurant, which boasts a 25-foot glass wall showcasing contemporary sculpture on display in the adjoining gallery, provides a memorable backdrop to your romantic evening, with exquisite food and drinks to match.

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CHOP CHOP

Off duty WITH DAVE COULSON

Here’s a supper dish that offers up something light, fresh and full of the healthy stuff that our January bodies demand…

Stonebass, Chow Mein SERVES 4

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Ingredients

Method

4 200g pieces of stone bass (skin scored) 15g black beans 4 carrots, thinly sliced 8 spring onions, chopped 1 squid tube, diced 1 pack rice noodles 2 heads broccoli, 50ml double cream 2 cloves garlic 1ltr chicken stock reduced to sauce Tenderstem broccoli, to garnish

You need to cook the elements separately then bring them together at the end.

Place the cream and garlic cloves in pan and heat slowly to reduce the cream by half.

Place the broccoli in a wok and cook until slightly soft, then blend with the garlic cream to a smooth puree. Keep warm.

Pan-fry the stone bass skin side down on a very low heat for 15mins until the skin is crispy, finish under the grill for 2mins with a knob of butter, just to brown.

Heat the chicken stock and add black beans, carrot, spring onion to gently cook (about ten mins). When still a bit crunchy, add the diced squid, keep warm.

Deep fry the rice noodles at 180°C until puffed and crispy.

Plate up as shown in the picture.

JAN/FEB17

BUILDING BOLD

Dobson and Parnell are responsible for shaping the look of Newcastle’s streets.

They’d be delighted to see what’s turned up in one of the buildings they designed, says Kathryn Armstrong

Streets ahead There’s something soothing and cocoon-like about the new inhabitant of 21 Queen Street in Newcastle.

The feel inside Dobson and Parnell flies in the face of the current trend for pared-back modernity. Panelled paintwork is a deep inky blue. Upholstery is rich and comforting and lighting, with a hint of industrial-meets Victorian, offers a soft glow over the tables.

The dash of ‘now’ enters via exposed brickwork on some walls and undergroundstyle tiling on others. It’s very nice, very solid; feels a bit like a hideaway. In fact in these days of street food and pop-ups, it feels beautifully grown up.

While the interiors are the opposite of Scandi, the food on the plate seems to nod to that Nordic fashion in cooking of

JAN/FEB17

from-the-earth ingredients, pickled provisions and inventive ways of paying respect to both.

There’s an expectation that the food will be good. Apart from the building itself being the place that spawned Newcastle’s first Michelin star in the eponymous 21 Queen Street with Terry Laybourne at the helm, Dobson and Parnell is headed up by another pair of North East food stalwarts.

Andy Hook, owner of Blackfriars Restaurant in Newcastle and Hinnies Restaurant in Whitley Bay, has teamed up with head chef Troy Terrington.

The pair set the bar in terms of offering a menu that showcased regional produce, genuinely making much of seasonality and small suppliers, rather than just paying lip-service to the local food mood.

Just like architectural stalwarts, John Dobson

and William Parnell, who designed the original building in 1863, the menu has solid foundations.

Menus are re-written every day depending on freshness and seasonality. There’s been a frenzy of foraging and pickling going on – and it continues – to prepare a bespoke food larder that can add a flourish of individuality to menus. The team will be curing, smoking, salting, brining and fermenting as the seasons change.

We went to D&P early evening where the set menu is £25 for three courses.

First up was a taster of smoked cod roe with a dash of allium oil; a creamy fishy, whippy mousse with an onion-y kick from the oil and a little shard of salty crispy chicken skin to scoop it.

My starter of line-caught mackerel, pictured above, furthered the allium journey. The fish came as a nicely-charred fillet, strong on flavour and thus able to cope with its plate mate of charred alliums – alongside this was a little pot of the same ingredients in tiny diced form with a stock liquor – dashi – poured over. All very eventful at the table, a bit of theatre and plenty of punchy, fresh flavours and textures.

My pal had pressed wild rabbit with pickles and pumpernickel – which is lovely to say even before you’ve eaten it. On the plate it looked great and there was a lot of mouth

action from the kick of the pickles and the earthiness of the pumpernickel and from the rabbit in its precise, textbook terrine.

The menu really is a joy; the calibre of dishes and attention to detail contained in them makes for something of a fun-packed journey.

I went for locally-caught hake with smoked clam ‘frumenty’, pickled lemon and wakame seaweed.

Fish was a perfectly cooked slab of slithering white flesh, made beautiful by its frumenty friend. This, if you’re wondering is a bed of softy, almost rubbery spelt grains, a risotto but not. Then sweet nuggets of clams, hints of lemon and a gentle stock salted by the seaweed, added another level of flavour.

My chum had slow-roasted shoulder of rare-breed pork with parsnips, trivet onions and pickled walnuts. This was an embarrassingly huge plate of food – looking every bit the roast you’d dream of.

A dense chunk of pork with some chewy caramelised bits round the edges was surrounded by sweet roasted veg – the trivet onions richly sweet and other-wordly.

Pickled walnuts were cheeky latecomers to this traditional party - sharp but a necessary and effective foil to the creamy richness of the pork.

It was tricky to move after the above, we were nicely cosied in to our comfy surroundings, drinking a bold Rueda by the glass, from a strong wine offering.

Desserts defied us but good coffee revived us. And worthy of note, when we collected our coats: they were toasty warm - thanks to the utter sanity of having a coat rack by a radiator. Little things. We Think Dobson and Parnell would definitely approve of everything, from pickles to panelling.

The menu really is a joy; the calibre and attention to detail makes for something of a fun-packed journey

Dobson and Parnell 21 Queen Street, Newcastle NE1 3UG Tel: 0191 221 0904 www.dobsonandparnell.co.uk Twitter: @DobsonParnell Facebook/Instagram: DobsonandParnell

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CUT THE CALORIES

Fish course goes healthy WITH TERRY LAYBOURNE

As January arrives, thoughts naturally turn to shedding the excess festive pounds you’ve unavoidably gained, again!

Choosing to be healthy begins with choosing the right food to eat. Restore a little balance and shed those pesky pounds this new year with the help of some fishy friends.

A lean, nourishing and versatile protein that’s easy to incorporate into your diet - fish is absolutely loaded with a variety of nutrients to optimise your wellbeing. Think less fat-saturated meats and more healthy fish oils! It’s recommended that you should eat at least two portions of fish per week – one of which should be oily.

So, let’s talk tuna.

Tuna is a relative of the mackerel family and can be found in the Pacific, Atlantic and Indian oceans. It provides a high-quality and lean source of protein and is rich in heart-and brain-healthy omega-3 fatty acids as well as essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin B and D, magnesium, zinc and iron.

Sometimes described as the ‘cow of the sea’ for its steak-like qualities, tuna has a deliciously meaty texture and is best served seared on the outside and rare in the centre.

As with any fish, visit a reputable fishmonger and look for tuna that’s displayed as a whole loin with dense bright red flesh. Ideally, look for a sashimi grade label as this means the fish is of the highest quality and can be confidently eaten raw. At its best when flash-grilled, griddled or pan-fried, tuna suits being teamed with strong Mediterranean or spicy Oriental flavours. * You can buy sashimi grade tuna from Saltwater Fish Company in Fenwick Food Hall.

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Tuna tataki, pickled cucumbers, sesame and sushi vinegar >> SERVES 4 Ingredients

Method

360g piece of sashimi grade tuna 1 avocado - skinned, stone removed and cut into 1cm dices 1 bunch of spring onions – trimmed and halved lengthways 1 pinch of toasted sesame seeds

Sear the tuna on all sides in a very hot cast iron pan, keeping it as rare as possible - remove and chill until needed.

To make the pickled cucumbers: Slice the cucumber into 2mm slices and sprinkle with salt. Place into a colander over a bowl, transfer to the fridge and allow to drain for 1 hour.

After 1 hour, remove the cucumbers from the fridge, rinse with cold water and pat dry. Discard any excess liquid and place the cucumbers into a clean bowl. Bring the sugar, rice vinegar, mustard seeds and water to the boil in a saucepan and pour over the drained cucumbers. Allow to stand for 1 hour minimum.

To make the dressing: Mix everything together and allow to stand for 1⁄2 hours before using.

To assemble: Spoon 2 tablespoons of dressing onto each of the four plates.

Slice the tuna into thin slices, allowing for 3 slices per plate, and place onto the dressed plates. Arrange the cucumber, avocado, spring onions and pickled ginger around and finish with a sprinkling of toasted sesame seeds.

For the pickled cucumber: cucumber pinch of salt 50g caster sugar 50mls rice vinegar 50mls water 5g yellow mustard seeds For the dressing: 50mls light soy sauce 35mls sushi vinegar 25mls sunflower oil 1 clove garlic- finely grated Juice from 1⁄2 a lime

JAN/FEB17

CHERRY CHEER

Veg patch WITH KAREN PHILLIPS

January and February may have the shortest hours of daylight but sharp, frosty days create a sparkling wonderland on winter vegetables. No blusher can reproduce the glow on your cheeks on coming back into the warm after a foray into the veg plot

RICH PICKINGS >> Leeks: Leeks may be the national symbol of Wales but that doesn’t mean they need to be confined to local recipes. Leeks and mashed potatoes are delicious in Boulanee: a stuffed turnover-style flatbread from Afghanistan, served with a coriander and walnut chutney.

Parsnips: The low temperatures force the parsnips to produce sugars to act as a form of antifreeze; hence they taste sweeter after a frost. A lovely Elizabeth David recipe for ‘Pastenak (the medieval English word for parsnip) and Cress Cream’ soup is a great

JAN/FEB17

way of using up any turkey stock lurking in the freezer.

Purple Sprouting Broccoli & Kale: The New Year heralds the conundrum of detox diet versus comfort food but these two hardy brassicas make eating healthily a joy.

Will it be kale chips; purple sprouting broccoli stir-fried with garlic and chilli; or my favourite kale salad with date and citrus dressing?

Potatoes: I love digging into the sack of stored potatoes and coming out with a handful of the different varieties: perfect, yellow oblongs ready to be parboiled then fried for a farmer’s salad; large, fluffy bakers with their peeky red ‘eyes;’ or vibrant, purple salad potatoes for chips to accompany steak. Last night’s mash was drizzled with truffle oil and this morning the leftovers have been warmed in the microwave, mixed with flour and then fried as potato cakes topped off with an egg – scrumptious!

JOBS OUTSIDE >> • Prune apples, pears and vines. If you don’t know where to start then join us on a half-day pruning course. Do not prune stone fruits: cherries, plums, greengages or

damsons since they may become afflicted with Silverleaf. These need to be pruned in the growing season, not when dormant.

• Mulch any bare soil in the veg plot with farmyard manure. The veg plot is the one area of the garden where nutrient deficiencies, and particularly deficiencies of trace elements, will rear their head if organic matter, in the form of well-rotted farmyard manure, is not put back into the soil on a regular basis. Think of the soil like a bank account without wages or interest going in each month whilst money is withdrawn (harvested) on a drip, drip basis; over time the account will become empty and fail to support you.

My lovely ex-neighbour, Elizabeth, emailed me this week to say her daughter had just bid for a load of farmyard manure at the school auction which had reminded her of the time 20 years ago when we went to collect some from a local farming friend.

Philip’s manure was spectacular: we’d witnessed the growth of the newly planted garden his wife had planted that already looked five years old. Once Philip realised that we were after such large quantities he simply lent us his pick-up to drive it all home!

JOBS INSIDE >> • From February onwards tomatoes and chillies can be sown in a heated greenhouse.

Morello Cherries: These acid cherries are superb for cooking with, making Swiss style conserves and, best of all, producing cherry brandy that knocks the socks off any that you can buy. Gin and Cherry B Sling anyone?

The trees are best grown on a dwarfing rootstock, so you don’t need a ladder to pick, and can be grown fan-trained on a North-facing wall. Since they are sour the birds don’t strip the tree before you can.

One word of warning: don’t stone them in the kitchen or your table will look like a massacre has taken place. www.deacons nurseryfruits.co.uk can post them out to you bare-rooted at this time of year.

LOOKING AHEAD >> Next time we’ll be planting the new herb garden at the farm and savouring the first wild garlic in a sumptuous filo tart.

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

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LUXE LIFE

KEVIN ROBERTSON Kevin has lived in the North East all of his life, being born and raised in Gateshead. He read law at Durham University, before training and then qualifying in the region. Kevin joined Bond Dickinson 15 years ago and now is head of the firm’s Projects and Procurement Team and Newcastle office.

Kevin has extensive experience of advising both public and private sector clients in relation to a range of projects and has particular expertise in projects in the education sector.

LUXE PEOPLE >> My parents. They kept their luxe elements to a minimum to give my sister and I everything we ever needed.

LUXE PLACES >> For a weekend > Bamburgh. Have been visiting for as long as I can remember and it remains my favourite place.

A long holiday > I’m afraid I am a relatively simple soul so the chance to spend a number of weeks on the Northumberland coast would be bliss.

Having said that I love Italy too…

A treat > A week in London wholly unconnected with work.

LUXE RELAX >> Best Food > Nigel Slater’s spicy sausage pasta, one of the few dishes I can cook from memory.

Best wine > Ebenezer & Seppeltsfield Shiraz which was recommended to me by a client when I bumped into him at the wine section in M&S. Favourite restaurant > Tough one… probably Broad Chare. Just one of many great examples of North East restaurants.

Perfect weekend > It would have to include three points for my beloved Manchester United! No matter what else happens it could never be classed as perfect if they don't win.

Downtime means > Just spending time at home with my wife, two sons and our Norwich Terrier with me listening to Radio 5’s football coverage or Test Match Special.

Best telly > Any sport really – I’m an armchair sport addict. I’ve also really enjoyed the recent Plant Earth II series – the lizards vs snakes and the city leopards sequences were incredible viewing and in themselves were worth every penny of the licence fee.

Best sounds > The Stone Roses – last saw them live in December 1995, they have provided the sound track to so many good memories.

YOUR LUXE THING IN LIFE >> Probably not luxe per se but if I could have only one luxury item in my life then it would be a DAB radio.

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JAN/FEB17

ISSUE 43 NOV/DEC16

LUXE PARTY >> Dinner date > At the time of answering these questions I have been particularly busy so finding any time to have dinner with my wife Elisabeth at home or in a restaurant would be great. Otherwise Gary Neville and Sir Alex Ferguson in The Broad Chare.

www.luxe-magazine.co.uk

LUXE SHOP >> Best shopping city > I’m not really a big shopper I’m afraid, it just gets in the way of everything else I want to spend my weekend doing.

Favourite shop > Fenwick.

Luxe retail treat > I think the (relatively) new Fenwick Food Hall is just magical. I could happily spend all day in there and if I win the lottery I would want to buy every last morsel in it …

Best Buy > My iPad mini through which I access Twitter which now provides me with nearly all of my sources of news, politics, sport and current affairs.

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SN OW Y G E TAWAYS . Grow - it , g ift - it . G LO S S Y G OW NS . Mc L a re n a w a yd a y.

T Y NE M OUT H UN C OVERED . So cial Diar y. M E R IB E L M AG IC . In s p i ri n g re c i p e s .

L I V I N G I T UP. An t & Dec’s g o - t o g u y. P O S H P O O C H E S . Bi g n a me s . LU X E .

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ISSUE 43 NOV/DEC16

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Regional, relevant and entertaining is what makes us different. It’s also the reason why you need Luxe in your life.

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ISSUE 44 JAN/FEB17

JAYNE SEC KER M A KING NEWS . Lif eGuid e. S KY HIG H MO O N MAN. C hi l l out fashi o n . L IV ING IT UP. Mid -lif e mo men t s . EQUEST R IAN. Pa rty pe opl e .

WR ITERS IN THE KNOW. A c u lt u r al 2 0 1 7 . B E F IT&WE LL. Lu xe l a ps. H IP H OTELS. Big names . LUX E.

LE E H ALL BACK WI T H BI LLY. C hic c ha pe l. L AYBOURN E ’S H E RO H E RRI N GS. To u r de Yo rk shire . CULT URE FOR SPRI N G. Bo ro’s go u rme t ho t spo t .

I N T E RI ORS KN OW-H OW. She a re r&She e ra n . FE RRARI FACE -OFF. Sprin g’s fa shio n fix. RE CI PE S TO T E MPT. Hip Ho t e ls. LUXE .

PARTING SHOT

Starry nights>> The Milky Way captured by photographer Kevin Gibson over North East skies. www.kgphotography.co.uk

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