Luxe Issue 67 Jan/Feb 2021 by Allies Group Ltd

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ISSUE 67 JAN/FEB21

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luxe-magazine.co.uk ISSUE 67 JAN/FEB21

N EW Y E A R G OA L S . Go i ng st at esi de. LOV ED UP. Int er ior inspiration. LIT T L E M O M E N TS . Real wed di ngs. CREATURE COM FORTS. Fashion f o c u s . S AVO U R I N G T HE S EAS ONS . Des i gner ho mes. G O LF. Luxe faces. WAND E R LU S T. Bi g n a mes. LUX E.

WHERE SOLD

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purchase. These lenders may or may not pay us for the introduction. A guarantee may be required.*Excess mileage charged at 9p per mile. Terms and conditions apply. Unless otherwise stated, metallic paint at extra cost. For full details please visit the dealership. Bristol Street Motors Hyundai is a trading name of Bristol Street Fourth Investments Limited (Company registration number 00522856) which also trades as Bristol Street Motors Hyundai Silverlink, and of Bristol Street First Investments Limited (Company registration number 00251237) which also trades as Bristol Street Motors Hyundai Morpeth. VAT Registration number 902737238. Registered office: Vertu House, Fifth Avenue Business Park, Team Valley, Gateshead, NE11 0XAInformation and offer correct at time of going to print. Image for illustration purposes only.

WELCOME

ISSUE 67 JAN/FEB21

contents 6>> Hello 2021 21 ways to welcome the new year in style

14>> Our picks 10 things luxe is loving this season

18>> Hollywood heights As I write this intro in preparation for print, the snow is falling outside - and with the beautiful, calming silence it brings - I’m taking some time to reflect and look ahead. And that’s exactly what this issue is about. We’ve waved goodbye to a testing and turbulent 2020 as we step foot into a new year with a positive mindset and a rather large ‘pocket guide’ to living the luxe life here in the North East. It may not have been the start we hoped for, but as we fill these pages we’re oozing with optimism and hope you can join us in planning for a positive future. As we swap twinkling fairy lights for ‘Illuminating’ decor thanks to the vibrant new Pantone Colour of the Year, we’re ditching the lazy, chocolatefuelled mornings for diaries and to-do lists as we start 2021 as we mean to go on. January is about setting goals, starting afresh and putting priorities back to the top of our agendas. That being said, it’s also a time (as ever!) to indulge in all that the region has to offer, even if that is from the comfort of our own homes, for now. All we ask is that you peel yourselves away from your home office, your home school set-up or whatever it is that is filling your time right now, and take a moment or two to hear about the hip happenings and stories that continue to make us proud of the place we call home. From Hollywood heights and familiar faces from the big screen, to new food folk and uber-cool teachers, we’ve got it all in this edition. Pop the kettle on, put your feet up and let luxe guide you into 2021. Happy New Year! Remember to check in with us online at luxe-magazine.co.uk See us on social at: Twitter: @TheLuxeMagazine Instagram: @theluxemagazine Facebook: @luxemag

THE LUXE TEAM Christopher March publisher chris@remembermedia.co.uk EDITORIAL Elysia Fryer head of content elysia@remembermedia.co.uk Matthew Thomas matthew@remembermedia.co.uk Nicole Wood nicole@remembermedia.co.uk

Simon Horsman’s stateside story

20>> Talking Tristan Great and Small encounters with Callum

24>> Fashion edit Callum Woodhouse has gone from the ARC Stockton stage to gracing our screens on hit shows such as The Durrells and more recently, the wonderful All Creatures Great and Small. He calls Stockton home but lives in London and has been embracing life back on home turf during filming in Yorkshire. His luxe things in life include: his gorgeous Cavapoo puppy Ralph, a good cup of coffee and all things TV and film.

A Reiss wardrobe overhaul

38>> Making waves Follow Hayley’s Wild Sea Women adventures

44>> Pine perfect Uncovering a Northumberland newbie

50>> Real wedding Letting love lead the way

54>> Chasing wanderlust Our travel ideas for 2021

63> Luxe lowdown Catching up with Sky’s David Jones

64>> Gorgeous goods How to make a house a home

68>> Pantone pairing Our 2021 home interiors palette

72>> Top teacher Introducing a Master Educator

75>> Little moments Helping kids get happy this year

77>> Electric avenue Bob’s motoring market update Cal Byerley and Siân Buchan are the brains behind Restaurant Pine. The pair have dreamed of opening their own restaurant for some time now, and albeit a very stop-start experience in the current climate, they’re enjoying every minute. Their luxe things in life include: farm life, the picture-perfect views from Pine and nature-inspired furniture from Nkuku.

SALES Debi Coldwell director debi@remembermedia.co.uk Tanya Harper tanya@remembermedia.co.uk Claudia Robinson claudia@remembermedia.co.uk Chris Turner chris@digitalallies.co.uk

80>> Green days Our luxe golf guide

Our partners

PHOTOGRAPHY Kevin Gibson info@kgphotography.co.uk Nicky Rogerson nicky@kgphotography.co.uk DESIGN David Stubbs creative director dave@remembermedia.co.uk

Remember Media Ltd, Enterprise House, Kingsway, Team Valley Trading Estate, Gateshead, NE11 OSR remembermedia.co.uk All contents copyright ©2021 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, January 2021.

Simon Horsman is a proud northerner living it up as a film producer in Beverly Hills, with friends in high places and a remarkable porfolio of feature films under his belt. His luxe things in life include: running marathons, enjoying the glorious great outdoors with the family (LA-style!), the gift of creativity and having the ability to do things that don’t feel at all like ‘work’.

luxe is published bi-monthly by Remember Media Ltd

JAN/FEB21

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LUXE LOVES

LUXE LOVES Scarlet scent Jo Malone London’s Cologne Intense range travels the world, collecting treasured ingredients to create unexpected fragrances. The latest addition is Scarlet Poppy, a beautifully floral scent inspired by the extravagant and exotic scarlet poppy from the wild steppes of Asia. In a rich red bottle design, it makes for the perfect Valentine’s gift for a loved one. Jo Malone London, Scarlet Poppy Cologne Intense, 100ml, £134. jomalone.co.uk

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JAN/FEB21

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PLANNING AHEAD

21 ways to welcome 2021

A new year is a great place to try or buy something new, and with plenty of optimism surrounding what we have in store as 2021 starts to flourish, there’s never been a better time to fill your diaries with indulgent stuff and bucket-list musts. Check out our luxe list of resolutions to help get the year off to a flyer…

EXPLORE WHAT’S BEYOND… Leave the woes and worries of everyday life behind you and be transported to outer space at Grassholme Observatory. Sitting in a serene spot beneath the Dark Skies of County Durham, you’ll see planets spin, gas clouds glow and galaxies light up the universe. A must for your 2021 agendas. grassholmeobservatory.com

HEAD FOR THE HILLS… Nothing helps us blow away the cobwebs more than a day in the hills. Dig out those walking boots, fill up a flask and head for the North York Moors when times allow. Whether it’s a hike up Roseberry Topping, a trek along the Cleveland Way, or a peaceful picnic in an idyllic location such as Cod Beck Reservoir, there are plenty of beautiful open spaces to explore on our doorstep. northyorkmoors.org.uk

7 PITCH PERFECT… It’s about time we all geared up for an outdoor adventure in Yorkshire Vehicle Hire’s Defender 110 XS Camper. See our region from a completely new vantage point with this on-the-road explorer. Crank up the gears, wind your way over the moors and pitch up for a perfect country camping experience, in true Defender style. We’ll be out and about exploring again soon. yorkshirevehiclehire.co.uk

2 EAT IN STYLE… While we wait in the wings until we’re able to venture out to our favourite restaurants once again, Tommy Banks invites us to enjoy proper Yorkshire food from the comfort of our own homes with the Made in Oldstead food box delivery service. Choose from a farmhouse cheese box, a coffee and cookies box or a mini bottled cocktails box or go all out with a three-course menu from £21 per head. tommybanks.co.uk

OPEN WATER ADVENTURES… Fenwick Ridley, our superstar adventure swimmer who graced our October issue, is the brains behind H2O Trails, providing professional open water coaching at Sweethope Lough in Northumberland. Wild swimming is an incredible good-for-mind-and-body sport, and if you’re the adventurous type, it’s something you should definitely add to your new year to-do list. h2otrails.co.uk

GET IN THE SPIRIT… If gin is your thing then we’ve got just the treat. Spirit of Harrogate has us covered with a whole host of virtual experiences and distillery tours to add to our 2021 bucket lists. While stuck at home, why not join a Virtual Gin Experience? Expect tastings, history lessons and find out everything you need to know about your favourite tipple. When the time is right, we’d recommend visiting the distillery to make your own concoction. spiritofharrogate.co.uk

4 SUPER STAYCATIONS… Happiest when lost in the countryside, we’re all dreaming of our next break, be it overseas or somewhere on home turf. Our friends at Beautiful Escapes are constantly reminding us of the beauty on our doorstep. Check out their stunning selection of properties across Yorkshire and plan ahead for a spring/summer staycation. beautifulescapes.co.uk

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BEAUTIFUL BLOOMS… Looking for unique new ways to say ‘I love you’? The lovely team at Palette Roses and Gifting have created the sweetest luxurious treat boxes containing stems of roses as well as gorgeous self-care goodies to make someone (or yourself!) feel ever so special. We wouldn’t be without our silky soft eye mask and body oil. Keep doing what you’re doing ladies! palettegiftbox.co.uk

GET FLEXI… Zoom exercise classes have somewhat become the ‘new normal’ in recent months and the turn of the year is a great chance to really get into a ‘flow’ with it. Shilling & Black, the lovely pair with a studio in Whitley Bay, have taken to the virtual world to offer yoga, pilates and barre sessions from the the home. There’s no better way to bring a bit of balance to your day before hitting the home office. shillingandblackstudio.com

JAN/FEB21

De c

WINTER SALE At Tecaz we love to give the opportunity for you to see and touch a range of bathrooms or kitchens before you decide to purchase. Our showrooms feature over 200 bathrooms, 100 showers and 50 kitchen displays, you're sure to find what you are looking for. Save up to 60% off RRP on some of our Biggest Brands including Heritage, Roman, Merlyn, Tavistock, Roca, RAK, Burlington, and many more! FREE computer aided planning and design are available, and for larger projects, we offer installation support. We are confident you'll achieve your dream living space. Plus FREE granite or Silestone worktops available on selected kitchen ranges.

Norham Road, North Shields, NE29 7TN • Tel : 0191 257 6511 Portrack Lane, Stockton-on-Tees, TS18 2HG • Tel: 01642 610 100 Tecaz Echo House, Pennywell Ind Est, SR4 9EN • Tel : 0191 534 7733 Sale starts: 10am on 27th Dec Open 10am - 5pm on 28th, 29th & 30th Dec Normal Opening hours resume from 2nd Jan: Monday - Friday : 9am - 6pm • Saturday : 9am - 5pm •Sunday 10am - 4pm

PLANNING AHEAD

14 ESCAPE REALITY... 12 books in 2021. Set yourself a challenge to read 12 books this year and grow from the joy, knowledge and accomplishment you’ll feel. Sometimes we just need to escape the reality of the world we’re living in. Whether it’s an autobiography from your favourite celebrity, an edge-of-your-seat fictional tale or an inspiring novel filled with positivity and advice, simply switch off and get lost in the pages. waterstones.com

FIND A COASTAL GEM... Those sun-soaked beach days may seem like a distant memory, but they’re not all that far away as the new year unfolds. Get ahead of the game by planning summer soirées in Saltburn-by-the-Sea. With a colourful beach hut as your base for the day, you can while away the hours as the kids play, the pooches get their paws sandy and the sun sets over the coastline. marshallsbeachhuts.co.uk

SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESSES... Social media has been a saving grace for many of us in recent months, whether it’s been a tool to stay in touch with loved ones, share happy memories or support local businesses. Take to Instagram this year and share some of the inspiring stuff you see on your feed. Remember, ‘when you buy from a small business an actual person does a little happy dance’. @theluxemagazine on Instagram

GET CRAFTY... If ever there was a time to get crafty, it is with the turn of the year. While The Pottery Experience remains closed throughout the lockdown period, the creative folk have pivoted to provide at-home craft sessions, whether it’s pottery making or pottery painting, it’s a great way to switch off for a while and bring a sense of calm and commitment to your day. thepotteryexperience.co.uk

15 WRITE IT DOWN... There’s something quite therapeutic about putting pen to paper and writing down your thoughts and feelings. Journaling comes with its fair share of purposes, whether it’s releasing your inner monologue, jotting down your creative ideas, documenting your day or quite simply taking notes. 2020 was a year we were forced to slow down and spend a lot of time with our own thoughts, so in 2021 why not spend time writing those thoughts down. Trust us, it certainly helps to clear the mind. typo.co.uk

DO YOUR BIT... There’s never been a better time to support local charities and institutions. Volunteer at your local food bank, donate to great causes or help some of our cultural venues come back stronger. We’re supporting Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums. Each kind donation helps to keep art, culture and heritage at the heart of the North East. twmuseums.org.uk

19 CREATE A SPACE... With remote working looking like a likely prospect for the future, it’s important to make your home a place you love. In order to successfully work from home, you need to be motivated and to be motivated you need to be in a positive environment. Try adding a splash of your favourite colour, buy the comfy chair you’ve kept in your online basket and add some inspiring prints - we’ve set our sights on these two abstract watercolour framed prints from Cox & Cox. coxandcox.co.uk

17 20

UP, UP AND AWAY... We know it’s our job to champion all there is to adore about our region, but the lockdown period has given us a newfound love of the North East and all its natural beauty. Let it blow you away even more in 2021 by seeing the sights from a height. Book a Bishop Auckland Balloon Ride and take to the skies as you fly over some of the finest countryside the UK has to offer. Think breathtaking vistas, patchwork fields and the wild beauty of the dales and moorlands. It doesn’t get much better than that. hotairballoonflights.com

ILLUMINATE YOUR HOME... Be inspired by Pantone’s Colour of the Year 2021 by bringing on-trend furniture into your home. We’re loving the Domkapa Eva Armchair - a statement piece adding a splash of ‘Illuminating’ colour to any living space. sweetpeaandwillow.com

PICTURE THIS... Missing loved ones is a feeling we all know too well at the moment. This year we encourage you to take pictures and capture your memories. We’re not talking about posting your glass of wine on Instagram, but take pictures of those practically imperfect family moments and get them printed. We spend a lot of time on our phones but there’s no better feeling than browsing through photo albums or getting crafty with a scrapbook. We all need those heartwarming memories to look back on - and not just on social media. freeprintsapp.co.uk

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SAVOUR SWEET SCENTS... No matter where we are in the world, we can now take an essence of the North East ‘hyem’ with us thanks to this wonderful new soy candle range. With its heart and soul in all things Northumberland, hyem is a 100% natural soy candle company with a range of fresh scents to remind us of the remarkable places we’re lucky enough to call home. With notes including lavender and black pepper, to rosemary and pink grapefruit, there’s an aroma to suit all styles and occasions. Instagram: @welcome_hyem

LEARN A NEW SKILL... Over the past year we’ve spent less time socialising, less time at the office, less time commuting and less time trying to fit a busy schedule into a hectic week; and we’ve spent more time than ever in our own home. While we understand this can be difficult for some, we’re looking ahead with a positive attitude and seeing that this extra time is something we’ve been blessed with. Why not use it to your advantage? With a ton of subjects and courses available online, have a go at brushing up on your knowledge and gain a new skill this year. futurelearn.co.uk

JAN/FEB21

ADVERTORIAL

Volatile times

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make the world highly unpredictable. In the context of saving and investing, the products and services we need to help us are similarly numerous and complex. Do you take the DIY approach to investing, seek guidance, or look for professional financial advice? Do you know your ISAs from your pensions and unit trusts – and how do you choose? Where should you invest? In public or private markets? In equities, bonds, or property? And should you seek out active managers or passive funds? The weight, number and nuance of such questions can make us yearn for simpler times – and bury our heads in the sand. Yet that will not help you secure a brighter future for you and your family. In times like these, it’s important to take action and speak with someone you trust. A professional financial adviser can help guide you through the wealth of options available, to keep your eyes focused on the horizon, and to help you to achieve your long-term financial goals.

If you feel you would benefit from a financial review of your individual requirements, I offer a no obligation review to suit each individual need. This review could be via a zoom meeting, telephone call or face to face at a Covid-secure venue at a time convenient to you. Please contact Patrick McLaughlin Wealth Management on 0191 5482830 or email patrick. mclaughlin@sjp.co.uk.

To receive a complimentary guide covering wealth management, retirement planning or Inheritance Tax planning, contact Patrick McLaughlin on 0191 5482830 or email patrick.mclaughlin@sjpp.co.uk. The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds you select, value can therefore go down as well as up. You may get back less than you invested. The favourable tax treatment of ISAs may not be maintained in the future and is subject to changes in legislation.

The Partner is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the title ‘Partner’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

JAN/FEB21

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GOOD STUFF

Sweet charity Good things going on in the North East, our Luxe charity round-up… LABELLED WITH LOVE >>

ROCKLIFFE HALL GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY WITH SPECIAL ADVENT CALENDAR >> Throughout December, the lovely folk at Rockliffe Hall supported as many local community causes as possible through their 12 Days of Giving advent calendar initiative. Each day they gave back in a different way, ranging from the Orangery restaurant team offering a Festive Afternoon Tea to key workers from Darlington Memorial Hospital, to the spa team treating key workers from the local SPAR supermarket and Post Office to an indulgent spa day. They also donated hundreds of toiletries to Darlington Memorial, selection boxes to the local food bank and old duvets and pillows to the Dogs Trust. Jason Adams, Managing Director, said: “Thousands of people will struggle this Christmas and we will continue doing all we can to give back.”

A unique project to engage autistic people in making their own brand of cider and apple juice has reached an exciting stage - with the first bottles coming off the production line with extra-special labels. World famous artist and patron of the North East Autism Society (NEAS), Mackenzie Thorpe, donated two designs for the labels, and the charity recently celebrated the first labelled bottles coming off the production line at New Warlands Farm, at Burnhope, in County Durham. The charity’s chief executive, John Phillipson, says: “When we started, I thought it would be an interesting project that gave the service-users a set of tasks, but what I hadn’t anticipated was how much they would love it. Some people thought it was bonkers, but we can now see it has the potential to be a viable social enterprise, and it already looks like we’ll have to scale up.” The idea took root when NEAS bought a community interest company called Fruitful Durham, acquiring its specialist equipment, and benefiting from the expert advice of its director Julian Godfrey. The charity embarked on growing hundreds of apple trees at the farm, with 1,000 being John Phillipson’s target over the next year. In the meantime, NEAS appealed for donations of apples - and the response has been overwhelming with apples coming from all corners of the North East. The apple juice sells at £3 for a 750ml bottle, and £1.50 for a 250ml bottle. It’s currently available at Broom House Farm Shop near Burnhope and Durham Health Food Shop in Langley Moor. It will go into production early this year.

PACKED LUNCHES FOR PRIMARY SCHOOL >>

OVERWHELMING SUPPORT FOR GNAAS IN MEMORY OF MUCH-LOVED DEPUTY HEAD TEACHER >> An appeal to support the Great North Air Ambulance Service in memory of Richmond School deputy head Dave Clark has received an overwhelming response. Mr Clark died after being trampled by cows while out walking in fields near the North Yorkshire town last September. His family announced they would like any donations in his memory to help the work of the GNAAS in the area. The family and school leaders say they have been astounded by the response to the appeal, which includes a donation of £11,000 by Applegreen Plc which will be used to purchase a Lucas 3 machine, which delivers chest compressions for patients suffering cardiac arrest. At the time Luxe went to press the total amount raised was just under £26,000, including fundraising by students at the school and donations via JustGiving. Sophie Bendelow, of GNAAS, said: “The students at Richmond are showing that out of something so horrendous, something positive can emerge. We are touched by their selfless actions and the support they are being given by Applegreen, the school and the wider community. This money will have a positive effect on other people’s lives.”

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Back in October, during the school half term, Seaham Hall supported children in poverty, in response to the Government’s decision to reject free school meals plans for thousands of low-income families. Head chef Damian Broom and his team made 50 packed lunches every day for children at Seaview Primary School and dropped them off at a local cricket ground where parents were able to collect them each day during that week. General Manager, Nathan White, said: “As a local hospitality business, we feel that we have a responsibility to give back to our community and support those families that need help most, especially after the enormous challenges they’ve had to face this year. “We believe that no child should have to go hungry, so we hope that our initiative did a little to provide for those disadvantaged children.”

#THEATREFORAPOUND >> The art industry is another that’s been hard hit by the pandemic. A new campaign has been launched to support the arts, including the Northern Ballet who have performed many times at the Theatre Royal, Newcastle. #Theatreforapound is appealing for as many people as possible to donate £1 to make a collective difference so ultimately, they can help other dance companies and theatres too. Victoria Smith, who set up the campaign, says: “Theatre is an instrumental part of life that has been here for hundreds of years and needs to be allowed to thrive and be lovingly preserved. It’s an inspirational environment with so many people involved in a sector that’s been massively affected.” You can donate at: virginmoneygiving.com/victoriasmith123

JAN/FEB21

OUR PICKS

10 things luxe loves 10 things luxe is loving this season… Compiled by Mariel Jones

Living by >> If 2020 taught us anything, it’s to expect the unexpected and live each day as it comes. With that in mind, we’re spending 2021 living by this quote from the former First Lady:

“If life were predictable it would cease to be life, and be without flavour.” - Eleanor Roosevelt

Dreaming of >> SIX SENSES, FIJI The spectacular Six Senses Fiji resort is a paradise for those seeking an out-of-this-world encounter with nature, complemented by untouched beaches, crystal clear reefs and first-class dining. Situated on Malolo Island, this Pacific treasure ticks all the boxes for a luxury retreat, whether you’re stepping straight into the ocean from a private villa, riding the waves at the surf school or keeping your feet on the ground with a sunset stroll. We may not be jetting off just yet, but it’s certainly top of our do-this dream as soon as we can take to the skies once again. There’s nothing wrong with a bit of wanderlust. blacktomato.com

Pampering with >>

In our basket >>

OROGOLD COSMETICS 24K MAGMA PEEL Peel your way to beautiful, glowing skin with Orogold’s Magma Peel - a pampering product perfect for your 2021 cosmetic bag. It works wonders when it comes to banishing dry, flakey skin after winter has taken its toll. A non-abrasive, cruelty-free exfoliating gel that is remarkably gentle and delivers results quickly. Your skin will be left feeling renewed, refreshed and fully revitalised. £118. orogoldcosmetics.co.uk

LIMITED EDITION HEATHER SPARKLING MEAD Created from a passion for honey, bees and champagne, Northumberland Honey Co. have worked their magic with a unique Sparkling Mead, the perfect prelude to a moment of pleasure or celebration. The 2017 Mead is a seriously rare and collectable edition, quintessentially British, elegantly presented and the perfect winter warmer. A not-so dry January at our Luxe home office. £38.50. northumberlandhoney.co.uk

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JAN/FEB21

OUR PICKS

Watching >> REBECCA A must-see movie for 2021. Make sure you check out the new Netflix adaptation of Daphne du Maurier’s novel starring Lily James as a young woman who falls in love and marries George Maxim de Winter, played by Armie Hammer. Sounds like the perfect love story? You’d be wrong. Mrs de Winter is quick to learn that her husband’s home, now her humble abode, is haunted by memories of his late wife, Rebecca. This one is sure to leave you on the edge of your seat. Duvet day in front of the TV anyone? netflix.com

Kitchen inspo >> SALT, FAT, ACID, HEAT: MASTERING THE ELEMENTS OF GOOD COOKING Whether you’re after fuss-free foodie inspo, or a recipe that is tailored to those with a bit of culinary experience, this is the cookbook you need in the heart of your home. A simple yet comprehensive guide to kitchen confidence - teaching you how to balance the four fundamentals of salt, fat, acid and heat - featuring recipes that suit everyone, from beginners to qualified cooks. A great way to start experimenting in the kitchen. £30. waterstones.com

Perfect scent >>

Following >>

L’ARTISAN PARFUMEUR Looking for a winter warmer to light up those long nights? Time to glow and thaw out in the warmth of this L’Artisan Parfumeur candle. Think cedarwood, blackcurrant bud and calming lavender notes as you relax, unwind and enjoy a bit of January R&R at home. £46. artisanparfumeur.com

JAN/FEB21

REBECCA.IRIS A lively feed celebrating all the lovely little moments that come with being a new mum. Rebecca is a Lake District girl living in North Yorkshire, making her way around the quaint towns and villages between the two beautiful areas. Expect everything from adorable baby shots and family portraits, to food inspiration and day out ideas. instagram.com/rebecca.iris

Listening to >>

Reading >>

THE DARIN OLIEN SHOW Start the new year with a new perspective on contemporary life. Darin Olien’s self-titled podcast provides a fascinating insight into the history of climate change and society’s other fatal conveniences that are key contributors to the ever-changing and evolving world we live in today. Each episode is packed with honest, inspiring and enlightening conversations with fascinating people from all walks of life. Darin and his guests hold the same ultimate goal - to save the planet one conversation at a time. darinolien.com/podcasts

THIS IS NOT A FASHION STORY: TAKING CHANCES, BREAKING RULES, AND BEING A BOSS IN THE BIG CITY WeWoreWhat’s founder, Danielle Bernstein, has launched her autobiography, This is Not a Fashion Story. Danielle is an entrepreneurial whirlwind whose business and creative inclination has been instrumental in redefining an industry, building a brand through the power of social media, becoming a household name in Forbes 30 Under 30 list and having a charitable conscience. The perfect stylish coffee table book for 2021. £17. amazon.co.uk

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LUXE PEOPLE GETTING TO KNOW YOU >> Name: Francesca Bolam Title: Writer/Actress Where is home? Home is Crown Heights, Brooklyn, New York. Originally, I’m from Darlington and grew up in Stockton-on-Tees. Three reasons you love where you live? There’s a certain magic about New York and the place is buzzing with creatives in all industries. In my neighborhood there is such a mixture of different cultures - it’s a beautiful thing to experience. There’s always something exciting happening in New York and so much opportunity available. THE DAY JOB >> What do you do for a living? I’m a writer/ actress, which seems very different to how I imagined it to be in a global pandemic. I went back to school in 2018 and graduated at the end of 2019. I was ready to rock and roll with auditions but COVID shook that up. I also work for a Broadway Theatre company in the fundraising department. A day in the life of you? My days rarely look the same. It depends what project I’m working on. But usually, I get up and practice Nichiren Buddhism with chanting and morning meditation. On a good day, that is followed by yoga or a workout. Then I’ll usually work most of the day. When I get time off, I’ll often write, take a class or hang out with friends. I miss the days of constantly running around all day and catching a show at the end of it. Any ongoing or upcoming projects we should know about? I recently filmed my play ‘Untitled Monologues’. This was a project I had been working on during the pandemic. Initially, I was asked to submit work for a live play festival called Rogue Theater Festival at 13th Street Repertory Theatre, an iconic off-Broadway theatre in NYC, however it is now streaming online. It’s been really exciting to be able to be creative during this time. I wrote, acted in, directed and edited the piece. It was interesting to have an idea solely for theatre and then make it translatable to screen in a short amount of time. I remember when I was auditioning for stage school, I always found it difficult to find monologues I connected with, so I think this piece would be perfect audition material. What does downtime mean to you? I think I’m still learning what that means. Sunday is probably the only day where I plan in some chill time - that’s usually spent with friends, or at the park. Brooklyn Botanical Gardens is right by my apartment and is one of my favourite spots to relax. LESSONS IN LIFE >> What did you want to be when you were growing up? Initially, I wanted to be a doctor and now I have a secret dream that one day I’ll play one on Casualty. Yes, I’m still watching Casualty and have done forever! What is the most important lesson life has taught you? To never give up and just keep pushing. I think we spend too much time standing in our own way, so I’m trying to stay out of my head and just have faith that I have everything I need to create the life I want. What is your greatest fear? I don’t think I actually have one. Which living person do you admire most and why? This is a really difficult question because I admire so many people for different reasons and some of them aren’t alive. So I’m cheating when I say Ntozake Shange, playwright and poet. As a black feminist, she addressed issues relating to race and black power in much of her work. Her choreopoem ‘for colored girls who have considered suicide / when the rainbow is

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enuf’ stands out to me creatively because her work confronted issues that weren’t being talked about. She was revolutionary and her work also uses many different mediums and has so many layers to it. I was fortunate to see it performed twice at The Public Theatre last year. On a personal level, my friends really inspire me, I have a really good circle of strong, badass creatives who are all doing really exciting and meaningful work.

THE LUXE LOWDOWN:

FRANCESCA BOLAM From Billingham choir to Broadway stage, Francesca Bolam is doing big things in the world of writing and acting. She grew up in the North East but now calls Brooklyn home, where she continues to succeed in the arts. Pandemic aside, the show must go on - and she’s doing exactly that with her latest play, ‘Untitled Monologues’, which made it to the Rogue Theater Festival 2020’s online streaming outlet. Elysia Fryer gets the lowdown...

LIVING LUXE >> What is top of your bucket list? Definitely to win an Oscar or a Tony Award. What is your most treasured possession? I practice Nichiren Buddhism with the SGI (Tina Turner does too!), which is a philosophy based on respecting the dignity of life. We chant Nam Myoho Renge Kyo to a mandala called the Gohonzon, this is an object that acts as a mirror for our internal self. My Gohonzon takes pride of place on the altar in my living room. My practice has really got me through some horrendous times and I don’t think I’d be where I am today without it. What does the weekend mean to you? Weekends mean brunch, long walks in Brooklyn and personal writing time with candles on. I love my Sunday evenings it’s the time I take to plan my schedule, journal and set the week’s intentions. It keeps me sane! A memorable holiday? I definitely left a piece of my heart in South Africa. The first time I went my friend and I drove from Johannesburg to Cape Town and stopped off everywhere in between. We went to Grahamstown Arts Festival and the level of passion and creativity still inspires me to this day. The country is beautiful, the people are so warm and the food is amazing. Best dress? Although my wardrobe is full of floral midi dresses, I really am a leather pant kinda gal. Who would be your top three dinner guests? This is so hard to choose. Michaela Coel, Florence Welch and Cynthia Erivo. The last place you ate? My all time favourite spot, Otis. A beautiful chef-owned restaurant in Brooklyn. The buratta is to-die-for. The last book you read? All About Love by Bell Hooks. The last thing you listened to? One of my friends introduced me to Sh**ged Married Annoyed and it is incredible. If you haven’t listened to the podcast you have to! Chris and Rosie Ramsey are hilarious. It’s really refreshing to be so far away from the UK and the North East and be able to laugh like you do with your mates. The last thing you watched? The Queen’s Gambit is the best thing to have graced my screen in years. The cinematography is beautiful, Anya Taylor-Joy intriguing and the writing genius. Three luxe things in life? MAC lipstick, Alien by Thierry Mugler fragrance and fresh flowers in the apartment every week.

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LA CALLING

Flying high in Hollywood Packing up to move from Hutton Rudby to Repton Boarding School was his first big move at the age of nine. Fast forward through a law degree and a prized position in the ‘Magic Circle’ of London firms, and Simon Horsman, 53, now finds himself living it up in Los Angeles. A fellow Hutton Rudby native, Elysia Fryer checks in to follow his inspiring journey across the pond...

The last time I saw Simon Horsman was over the bar at The Bay Horse in Hutton Rudby, during what must have been a flying visit back home some years ago. When Christmas comes around, in usual circumstances, it’s a wonderful thing to catch up with familiar faces in the local pub, hearing about how families have grown and flourished, spreading their wings across the country, the continent and beyond. Things were of course a little different this time, but after a chance meeting with Mr and Mrs Horsman, a lovely couple and once ‘locals’ who still live in the village, I’m put in touch with Mr Horsman’s eldest son and we’re catching up over Zoom to talk Hollywood, high-flying businesses and home comforts. Simon’s story is something of a Hollywood blockbuster, which is very fitting given his sparkling career as a successful financier and producer over in The States. I’d heard snippets of his story from his proud parents over the years, but it was great to put a face to the name once again (albeit in a virtual way) to get the lowdown in full. So, I guess it makes sense to start from the very beginning. Simon is pleased to see me sitting comfortably with a cup of Yorkshire tea as he begins to do what he does best tell an engaging story from start to finish. “If we’re going way back to day one, then I’ll start by saying I was born in Middlesbrough and grew up around the area,” he starts. “My family lived at Rudby Hall in Hutton Rudby but have since downsized considerably,” he laughs. “But it’s nice to know that they are settled back in my hometown and I love to visit whenever I can.

“Following my early studies at Red House School in Norton and then Repton in Derbyshire, I did my degree at Manchester University and then moved on to read law at The University of Law - Guildford. After graduation, I moved to London and qualified with Slaughter and May, which was one of the ‘Magic Circle’ firms at the time.” Studying and practicing law seemed like the natural progression for Simon. His father Malcolm Horsman was, until his retirement in 2003, the senior partner of Doberman Horsman Solicitors of Borough Road, Middlesbrough. “But it wasn’t long before I got a little disillusioned with London and decided to be a bit more adventurous, so I moved over to The States.” A pretty spontaneous leap across the pond, but one that has led to an incredibly successful career moving from law into technology and more recently into film and television production, Broadway and a sports agency. Many of us have the itch to travel, to see more of the world, to experience life on a different continent. So what exactly made Simon make the jump? “I was just in search of adventure and wanted to try something new. I always wanted to explore the entertainment industry, so I figured, what better place to do so than the US? “I thought about doing that as a lawyer initially, but when I did the California bar exam and requalified over here, I got into partnership at a law firm when the technology boom was happening, so I ended up taking that path. “The law firm I joined was doing incredibly well, so for 10 years I got sucked into that and represented some of the biggest tech-software companies including Intuit, Microsoft, Autodesk, Adobe and Symantec.

I was attracted to LA for the same reasons a lot of people want to be here. I wanted to be at the centre of something exciting

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I did a lot of their international anti-piracy work, particularly in Brazil for The Business Software Alliance. “Then I went in-house as the General Counsel of an internet company called PriceGrabber, which back in the day was a leading price comparison shopping site. It sounds funny now because Amazon has monopolised the business, but at the time, if you wanted to buy a computer you’d go to a price comparison site and they’d list all of the retailers by price. That was a very successful company; with about $1.5m raised in 2000, we sold it four years later for close to $500m. It was an incredible success story and gave me a little bit of freedom to pursue my other ambitions.” His other ambitions being a route into entertainment - the industry that LA and Hollywood in particular is famed for. We all have our own perceptions of LA ‘the city of angels’, ‘the home of the stars’, ‘la la land’ - whatever it may be. It’s a city I’ve always had a fixation with. The sheer buzz of the place. The fashion, the lifestyle, the success stories. But that being said, it is a place that leaves you to question: ‘what is Hollywood really like?’. Simon tells us... “I was attracted to LA for the same reasons a lot of people want to be here. I wanted to be in the centre of something exciting. “I became a lawyer here, so there was a lot of hard work involved to start with but after a while, it just becomes normal life. “I mean, I’m sitting here in the middle of Beverly Hills - the sun is shining in December - and professionally, I’m at the epicentre of the industry.” For Simon, it’s about enjoying what life throws at you and being open to starting new ventures with the inspiring people that surround you. “My start in the entertainment industry came when I started running a company called Future Films, which was the US arm of a UK-based film finance company. Around this time, I got involved with the UK’s biggest

talent agency called Independent Talent Group. They represent the cream of British talent, everyone from Anthony Hopkins to Daniel Craig to Phoebe Waller-Bridge. I ended up finding a US investor to acquire a large stake in that company. “On the tail end of that deal closing, I met Jeffrey Soros and represented him as his lawyer in the entertainment industry. Jeffrey’s parents have an incredible story of arriving in America as immigrants from Hungary and going on to achieve truly great things in finance, engineering and philanthropy. “Jeffrey is my partner at Los Angeles Media Fund (LAMF), where our core business is financing and producing movies. We’ve produced many movies and documentaries together at this point.” LAMF took off in 2012 and is really where Hollywood comes into the Horsman name. Simon guides me through an exciting timeline of movies and feature films to hit the big screens in recent years. “We did a movie called The Space Between Us with Gary Oldman and Asa Butterfield a young adult sci-fi adventure. We also produced a movie called Juliet, Naked which we shot in England. It’s based on a Nick Hornby novel of the same name. “We did a horror movie called The Bye Bye Man, which did quite well at the Box Office. “We also worked on a dance comedy called Step Sisters, which was fun, as well as a crime movie starring Jim Carey called Dark Crimes. “We were at Sundance Film Festival last year with three movies. One of which has just been released in the UK called Shirley with Elisabeth Moss in the lead role. Elisabeth is on the shortlist to be nominated for an Oscar for her performance.” Other of his films that premiered at Sundance last year include, Some Kind of Heaven, which he and his partner produced with The New York Times and director Darren Aronofsky, which is an irreverent look at America’s largest retirement community in

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LA CALLING Central Florida; and the film Summertime, which features 25 young, spoken word poets who intersect over a hot July day in LA. Both should be released in the UK later this year. “We’re just about to complete a documentary on the iconic footballer, Ronaldinho. We’ve been working on that for the last year and it’s turned out great. It covers his life from growing up in Porto Alegre, Brazil. “His older brother Roberto, who is now his manager, was a very good football player in his own right and was actually in the Brazil national team, but then suffered a career-ending injury so all hopes turned to this little kid, Ronaldinho. “It’s really a trajectory of him becoming indisputably the greatest football player on the planet for a few seasons at Barcelona from 2003 to 2006, but we also go back and forward in time to get the whole story. We released a trailer across Ronaldinho’s social media accounts in October, which garnered over eight million views, which is a testament to his continuing popularity. “The film is directed by two British brothers, Andrew and Stuart Douglas. Jake Bugg is composing the score for us.” Another big project in production at the moment is a nine-part docu-series on the Los Angeles Lakers, the reigning NBA champions. “Our partner on that is Jeanie Buss - the owner of the Lakers, and the most powerful woman in sport. “We’re telling the story of her father, Dr Jerry Buss, who bought the Lakers in the 1970s and really created this movement called the ‘Showtime Era’. “Jerry Buss was the first NBA ownder to promote women into top executive ranks. He anointed Jeanie as his successor over his two sons. We cover all of the great players from Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to Magic Johnson to the current era. “The Lakers just won the NBA Finals, so the series culminates with that in the NBA Bubble in Orlando.” Much of what Simon and his team at LAMF produce is current, relevant and incredibly engaging, not only to US audiences, but across the globe. Whether it’s a timely sports documentary or a show on international heroes such as Ronaldinho, there’s always a place in the industry for such inspiring work.

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One of the largest movements in US history - and indeed across the globe - is evident in the ‘Black Lives Matter’ protests, a dedication to fighting for freedom, liberation and justice. A number of recent LAMF productions act as a punctual reminder. “Shot in the Dark is a show LAMF produced with NBA great, Dwyane Wade and Chance the Rapper. It tells the story of two African American basketball players from the west side of Chicago. They’re at high school, they’re going down to the State Championship for the first time. It’s really about growing up in these gang-infested neighborhoods and how hard it is for these kids to stay out of trouble. “Spoiler alert, one of them ends up in jail and the other gets shot in the leg, but ultimately gets to college on a basketball scholarship. It was a tough story, but very well received and was nominated for an Emmy. “We’re also working on an important project based on The New York Times bestselling book by Jeff Hobbs, The Short and Tragic Life of Robert Peace. The film will be directed by British director/actor, Chiwetel Ejiofor. Antoine Fuqua is producing with us - he is one of Hollywood’s biggest directors, he directed Training Day, for example. “It’s the heartbreaking real life story of Rob Peace, who was born in East Orange, New Jersey. When he was seven, his father was accused and convicted of a brutal murder. His mother works in a canteen and doesn’t have a lot of money, but somehow saves to send Rob to the local private school. “Rob was gifted academically and secured a scholarship to Yale, so it’s really a journey of this kid from a challenging neighbourhood who manages to excel even with a dad in jail and a mum who can hardly afford to keep a roof over their heads. At Yale, he becomes the biggest pot dealer on campus, this was back in the early 2000s. “He graduates with flying colours, goes back to East Orange and does one last drug deal as he’s planning where he’s going to go for post-graduate studies, but he’s murdered. It’s a very well written book, pointing a finger at American society and how the system fails some people. It’s a very important film. That’s probably the next film we’re going into production on and is likely to be released in 2022.” “On a totally separate note, we did a very

fun documentary called United Skates, which looks at a sub-culture of African American roller skating rinks and how it has been a real generator of hip hop music, but now it’s kind of dying out. When I first got into this one, I didn’t think it was going to get broad attention, but it received great critical reviews and was nominated for an Emmy. “We’re also doing a TV series with two-time Oscar winner, Jodie Foster directing. It’s a story about the theft of the Mona Lisa. I didn’t even know about this event going into the project - that’s what’s so fun about my job. “In 1911, the Mona Lisa was stolen off the walls of the Louvre Museum in Paris. It went missing for almost two years. There was a mastermind behind the heist, but it was funny because Picasso was living in Paris at the time, and was actually one of the main suspects (in his days as an unknown artist in Paris, he allegedly handled stolen goods from The Louvre). He was dragged before a magistrate and had to plead his innocence. Ultimately, he hadn’t stolen the Mona Lisa, but it’s a very interesting side story.” “So, in a nutshell, that is what I get up to,” he laughs. A very busy agenda, and one that comes with many a story. We could go on for pages and pages, but we have more exciting Simon Horsman businesses to get on to! So, how does a sports agency fit into the mix? “I co-founded a sports agency called Beyond Athlete Management, where we represent basketball players and American footballers. We have Miles Saunders, who is the star running back for the Philadelphia Eagles and Courtland Sutton, who is a wide receiver for the Denver Broncos. “We’ve got about 25-30 basketball clients, some of them in the NBA, some of them playing in Europe. “LAMF is a controlling shareholder in that company. Our decision to grow Beyond Athlete Management was to benefit from the convergence between entertainment and sport. A lot of big basketball players want to get into the entertainment industry, if they have not done so already, so we thought one company would really feed off the other, which it does so wonderfully.” Voila! Simon Horsman takes Hollywood indeed - we agree that it should be a show in itself. Oh, and he’s not afraid to admit he’s also involved in talk shows and reality TV favourites that have included Red Table Talk and The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City. All of that, plus Broadway shows including a revival of Oklahoma!, which he won a Tony Award for. An all-rounder if you ask us. Between planning, production and juggling his many successful LA-based businesses,

Simon enjoys family life in The Golden State. “I’ve been here since 1996 and it is very much home now. I’m well settled with my wife Anna and son Malcolm, who is nine-years-old and a gifted football player. He plays for the Juventus Academy over here, which is headed up by Alessandro Del Piero - an Italian footballing legend. “There are a few former Premier League footballers over here that I’m quite friendly with, which is nice. “Living away from home for so long, it’s always comforting to have some friends around you that know a bit about your culture back home and know where you come from. I’m a proud northerner, so any opportunity to talk about my roots is just wonderful. “I didn’t have much of a reason to be here originally. I was a lawyer in London, I got on a plane, booked myself into the Hilton at LAX and took the California bar exam I didn’t know anybody. “I turned my back on what might have been a big career in law in London, but I just wanted to do something more exciting. “I’m very fortunate to have a great business partner in Jeffrey Soros. That shouldn’t be overlooked, he is a wonderful human being. We have a very good friendship and work really hard to ensure we create a positive working environment.” Business aside, Simon and his family enjoy living in such an incredibly colourful city, with the beach, countryside and bright lights at their fingertips, as well as good travel links, allowing them to explore the rest of the country and beyond. “We like to travel, when we can. My wife is from a really beautiful, exotic place Cartagena in Colombia - so we love going to visit. It’s a very vibrant, musical place. “We also love travelling back to England when we can, to see my family. “But most of the time, we just really enjoy LA. We’re very lucky to have the warm, sunny climate that we do. Being able to jump in the car and arrive at the beach within 30 minutes is just an absolute joy.” A very luxe life - but one that started with, and will always have a place for, his beloved North East. “On a final note, the most ‘luxe’ thing to me is the ability to do things that are really not work at all. Whether it’s seeing a movie with an actor you’re working with, reading a script on a subject that you’re interested in, or picking up a book and thinking, this would make a really great film, it’s all about getting involved in the centre of that creative process. It’s incredibly fun. To create is a big thing for me, something I’m sure you share in your industry too!” lamf.la | beyond.am

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HOMECOMING

Taking on Tristan

The much-loved tale of a vet’s misadventures in Yorkshire was reimagined in 2020 - and it was the feel-good escapism we all needed during the pandemic. As Channel 5 announces filming for a second season, Elysia Fryer catches up with local lad Callum Woodhouse, who plays the troublesome Tristan Farnon

Callum’s career has taken him from the ARC Stockton stage to the Greek isles and now homeward bound to glorious Yorkshire - the setting of his latest on-screen venture as Tristan Farnon in Channel 5’s remake of All Creatures Great and Small. As the nation eagerly awaits the Christmas special (during our pre-festive break chat) and following the good news of a second season, Luxe takes to Zoom to chat to the Teesside lad who has been making quite the stir in a well-known Yorkshire village. “I so hope you all enjoy the Christmas special,” smiles Callum. “It’s a really amazing episode. It sort of ties up loose ends, but also leaves them absolutely not tied up at all, wide open for season two. “There’s continuations of our stories; me with my exams, Mrs Hall with her son and Siegfried with Dorothy. Then there’s an incredible storyline with James and Helen I don’t want to spoil it, but it’s just such an amazing plot. “One thing I will say is that it has one of the cutest dogs in the storyline. Every time this dog appeared on camera, I just melted. So much so that we’ve actually just taken the plunge and got a little pooch for ourselves.” New season and festive episodes aside, one of the most exciting aspects of shooting for All Creatures Great and Small was Callum’s love for the area. A hometown (ish) gig for a humble Teessider raised just up the road… “It was great to be able to head back up north and be a 30/40 minute drive to my hometown. The idea that I could just jump in my trusty Renault Clio and pop to see the family was just lovely,” smiles Callum. “Skipton was the town we were closest to when shooting, so not only was I pleased to be close to my family, but we were delighted to hear that it was home to over 20 pubs. “Me and Nick, who plays James, set ourselves the challenge to try every single pub while we were filming. I don’t think we quite managed it, so hopefully when series two comes around, we can try again. We did give it a good go!” As we settle in to chat about how the All

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Creatures gig came about, Callum notes that it’s ‘not a very glamorous story’. “I’d love to have a big exciting story, but it was just another email in the inbox, which in this case, had a very exciting outcome. “It was eight months after my last job, so I was just really pleased to get the audition. I read the script, loved it and went down to Manchester for the interview. “I remember trying really hard to not get too attached to it, because it’s a nightmare when you do that and then you don’t end up getting the role. “I got to meet the director, Brian Percival, which was a bit of a ‘pinch-me’ moment. I’m a big fan of his work - Downton Abbey, The Book Thief and so on - so a day out to meet him was exciting in itself. “I got in there and it was Brian, the producer Richard Burrell and the casting director Beverley Keogh; we just ended up having the most amazing chat for around 30 minutes, and then Richard was like, ‘Gosh, we better do some scenes’. “I remember thinking, this is a good sign, we’re getting on so well we forgot the reason we were here. The very next day I got a call saying that they wanted me to be involved. I was delighted.” From that very moment, Tristan was to become a big part of Callum’s life. A part he would take on oh-so well - and a real pick-me-up for many during the pandemic. But Callum’s story doesn’t stop at Tristan. While we’re certain he’ll go on and achieve big things in TV, we’re taking a look back at his colourful career, which has taken him from Mr Crunchie to Corfu. “I grew up in Stockton, where I used to be part of a theatre group at the ARC,” explains Callum. “My mum would take me there and it was just something that I always enjoyed being a part of. One of my earliest memories is a show where we were all dressed as different chocolate bars. I was Mr Crunchie, the owner of a club. My aunty made me this amazing t-shirt that almost perfectly replicated the material of a Crunchie. “As you can imagine, it was very loud there was a rustling racket with every move I made. Whether the audience could hear my lines or not I will never know,

but that feeling of being on stage and performing has always stayed with me. Long live Mr Crunchie! “The first film I saw was Babe: Pig in the City, and I remember thinking, that’s what I want to do. My parents were always so supportive. I was very lucky to be able to join theatre groups, because not everybody has the opportunity to do that. “School was great, but there are only so many school plays you can do, so joining a great theatre group was key in my progression.” Following his early education and years of after school theatre fun, Callum went on to study at Stockton Sixth Form College. “I got through the whole of school and then got halfway through my first year of college and one of my tutors said, ‘I’m pretty sure you’re dyslexic,” he recalls, laughing.

were worried about what they were going to do for work, so I was incredibly lucky. “The Durrells went on for four years, and I managed to do some really great stuff in between like appearances on Cold Feet and other really cool shows. “We knew pretty much as series one came out that we were going to get the chance to do the other three series, so even when I was out of work between filming, I knew I was going to be heading back to Corfu in the summer to do another season. “After series four, it was the first time I had no work in the pipeline and I was getting a lot of setbacks. I remember my girlfriend summing it up wonderfully by saying, ‘You’re graduating from LAMDA four years later - you didn’t have that initial worry about getting into work, you’re having that now.’ It was the perfect analogy for it really, and

Callum bagged his first big screen break before graduation, securing a spot on a plane to Greece for filming of The Durrells “Turns out I was really badly dyslexisc and should’ve been allowed more exam time and what have you throughout school. I only realised it at 17, but it made so much sense as I always struggled with the academic subjects, which I guess sparked my creativity in other areas. “My dyslexia never set me back though, it just allowed me to focus on what I did well, so following college I managed to bag myself a place at LAMDA - the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art - which gave me three years of practical work. That’s exactly what I needed.” Callum bagged his first big screen break before graduation, securing a spot on a plane to Greece for filming of The Durrells. “Leslie is a character that will always be close to my heart,” says Callum. “He was my first role after LAMDA. It was perfect timing - most people in my year

it allowed me to give myself a bit of a break, to ease the pressure and to stop worrying about my next move.” Back to his first gig, going from an education setting to a real set was quite the culture shock for Callum, and while it took a bit of getting used to, sometimes being thrown in at the deep end is the best way to succeed, he tells me. “The first week on set with The Durrells was pretty scary. We had some really amazing screen training at LAMDA, so I was comfortable in front of a camera, but you can never be fully prepared for what is going to hit you in the real world. It’s incredibly fast paced, and I learned that very quickly. “Some stuff was completely new to me like following markers on the floor. The first week of filming was just me mooching around with my head down dragging my >>

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HOMECOMING

feet along the floor, then looking up candidly. It’s safe to say I didn’t ‘nail it’ right away - I knew I had a bit of work to do, but we had a laugh with it. Thankfully, I think I’ve mastered the markers and you won’t see me with my eyes to the ground too much in All Creatures. “The best thing about the whole Durrells experience was that I felt like I was on set with my long lost family. It was an incredible job by the casting directors. I felt like I had a connection with every single member of the cast and we just hit it off within the first week, so by the time we were filming we were already a really tight unit.” As viewers, we don’t necessarily think about off-screen relationships and how they can impact how we see the characters play out on screen. Some big name stars have fooled us in the past - we’ve all trailed through feeds that remind us that Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey weren’t the best of friends in the filming of Dirty Dancing. Regardless of what is going on behind-the-scenes, having a genuine relationship with a co-star can only add to the success, something that rings true for Callum. “With The Durrells, the characters all sort of got on each other's nerves a lot of the time - they were very rarely getting on with each other on the show, they were always at each other’s throats. And that type of thing is so much easier to play when you absolutely adore the person you’re in the scene with because you can just really go for it. There’s no awkwardness there. It would’ve been a total nightmare if we didn’t get on.” From Leslie to Tristan, Callum has become a regular fixture on our screens when it comes to proper British drama, but looking back on his route to ‘the now’, he feels his characters don’t define his nature, and he reminds us that he’s got plenty up his sleeve when it comes to adapting. “Even when I started drama school, I

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remember thinking the types of characters I like to play tend to be bad guys or villains, I never thought I’d be playing comedic idiots, if you like,” Callum laughs. “I shouldn’t be too surprised should I? That being said, it’s been amazing playing those types of characters, but it’s definitely not what I envisaged. Now that I’m here, it’s incredible, but these aren’t roles I ever thought I would or could play - especially someone like Tristan who is continually upbeat and optimistic.” But how very apt? In times like these, we should all take a leaf out of Tristan’s book. He’s a character that gave All Creatures Great and Small that cheery pick-me-up we all needed during such an uncertain and turbulent year, and we can’t wait to see more of him. “Tristan is an absolute pleasure to play,” says Callum. “And I do feel like he’s become a part of me, for all the right reasons. But I must admit, I did spend a lot of time researching the character before shooting. “I watched a bit of the original show and it was incredible - but I didn’t want too much of the amazing Peter Davison’s performance to rub off on me. It had to be my own rather than any hint of an impersonation. So I really devoured the books to begin with; then when we got the scripts, it was incredible to envisage the characters coming to life. “The children of the real James Herriot, Alf Wight, came to the read-through before we started filming. Following that, we went for a coffee with his son, James Wight, who has written a book about his dad called ‘The Real James Herriot: A Memoir of My Father’. He had a personalised copy for each of us. In it, he had marked exactly where our character pops up. On the final page, he had written, in his own handwriting, a little blurb about

Tristan is an absolute pleasure to play. I watched a bit of the original show - and it was incredible - but I didn’t want too much of the amazing Peter Davison’s performance to rub off on me. It had to be my own rather than any hint of impersonation what our character was really like. It was so unbelievably helpful and really brought the whole thing to life for me.” You may have spotted another familiar face in the series - going way back to our spring 2014 Luxe cover star - the lovely Maimie McCoy. “Maimie is great,” says Callum. “I loved filming with her. I didn’t actually know that she was a Teessider until the second time we filmed together and she’d seen something on my Instagram. She said, ‘Are you from Stockton?’... then we started listing all of these places that we both knew - and of course, the topic of parmos came into conversation very quickly. Every Teessider can share a parmo story together, of course. “The rest of the cast - Nick, Rach, Anna and Sam - are all great. It was similar to The Durrells in that we all just instantly got on. It made the whole experience really fun and enjoyable from start to finish.” As 2020 closes with snowy scenes of Yorkshire in the All Creatures Great and Small Christmas Special, Callum looks forward to starting filming for season two in the months to come.

“It’s always great to head back up north, and I’m delighted to be returning for season two. You’ll be seeing more of the Skeldale gang in 2021 and I’m excited about what’s in store. “With that, hopefully, will come a few trips back home to see the family. The North East will always have a part to play in my life and career moving forward. There’s so much to love about the region, I just can’t get enough of it! “Whether it’s a parmo at The Masham in Hartburn, a hike up Roseberry Topping in Great Ayton, or a night out in Yarm when time allows, it will always be home to me.” But for now, as we finalise these Luxe pages and hunker down for another national lockdown at the turn of the year, it’s all about spending time with his pup, enjoying a coffee from his new espresso machine and getting through a long list of films. “People always call me the human IMDb. I’ve got freakishly good knowledge when it comes to movies and theatre - I can pull actors and films out of nowhere. Test me next time you see me! “But until then, I’ll see you later this year as I return to Darrowby in my best tweed suit!”

JAN/FEB21

ADVERTORIAL

The Importance of a plan “If one does not know to which port one is sailing, no wind is favourable.” - Lucius Annaeus Seneca

What is retirement? It’s possible to offer up various definitions, but from a financial planning perspective one way to think of retirement is: moving from a position where income derived from your labour covers your spending, to a position where spending is covered by the income generated by or drawing on your assets. These assets may be many different things; pensions, investments, ISAs, savings, rental properties, your main property etc., but they are all things you own. Common questions are: ‘do I have enough assets to make this transition?’, ‘am I on track to retire when I’m aiming to?’ or ‘what do I need to do to make sure I can retire when I’m ready to?’ To answer these questions, you need a plan. Whilst you are working and earning a salary, your income should cover all of your spending needs as well as repaying any liabilities. In addition to this, hopefully some of this income will go towards

building your assets through savings and pension contributions. A financial plan need not be complex, but having one is a key step to financial wellbeing and ensuring that you can realise your desired lifestyle, now and in the future. Most importantly, it must be sufficiently robust to serve its purpose. Whilst a financial plan can be relatively simple, often the process of planning is more complex. For example; • Using pensions, ISAs or a mix of the two to optimise capital flexibility • What tax reliefs might be available to maximise the impact of your savings • How to manage investment risk as you approach retirement This is where a professional adviser can add value, but the answers to these questions are always determined by what your goals are for your retirement. i.e. where are we sailing to? The punch in the mouth Mike Tyson famously said: “Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth.”

Financially speaking, this ‘punch in the mouth’ can take a number of forms. A stock market crash, an illness that prevents you from working, COVID-19 and redundancy etc. In these often stressful or emotional times, it can seem natural to want to react or take action. This is again where having a trusted advisor can be invaluable. Steering clear of knee jerk reactions and carefully amending plans is fundamental in avoiding potentially irreversible mistakes. At Sandringham Darlington we are here to guide you through all of these questions and to help you and your family plan for your financial futures. If you are keen to

begin your plan, we are offering a special offer to Luxe readers of a no cost 30-minute financial planning conversation. Please get in touch on 01325 808075, email darlington@sandringham.co.uk or visit our website: sandringham-darlington.co.uk.

Sandringham Financial Partners Ltd (‘Sandringham’) is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. FCA Number: 581304. Registered Office: 5th Floor, 30 Market Street, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD1 2HG. Registered in England and Wales No: 08022795. VAT Registered: 337 981 265.

SAVVY STYLE

Modern hybrids In 2020 reality taught us to dress down, but with an instinctive need to dress up at the turn of the year, the Reiss SS21 range has got us covered. Expect a serene colour palette of mocha hues and chalky white tones as the collection evokes casual attire paired with polished, timeless pieces for effortless, flexible style Piper Jacket, ÂŁ375

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SAVVY STYLE

Brooke Sweatshirt, £75 Otis Trousers, £180 Finley Trainers, £120

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Savannah Dress, Â£325

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SAVVY STYLE

Philippa Jacket, £145 Millie Coat, £325

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SAVVY STYLE

Evelyn Blazer, £235 Evelyn Trousers, £135

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Libby Sweatshirt, £135 Danica Joggers, £145 reiss.com

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LUXE LOOKS

GET THE LOOK

Workout wardrobe

YANA >> 1.0 Leggings, Black, £70, yanaactive.co.uk

How to stay luxe while working on a new wellness regime in 2021... LULULEMON >> LAB Toja Shell Coat, £298, lululemon.co.uk

VAARA >> Flo Two-Tone Panelled Leggings, £140, harveynichols.com

LULULEMON >> Fleece-Lined Knit Pom Beanie, £58, lululemon.co.uk

REISS >> Phoebe Shorts, Ivory, £115, reiss.com

REISS >> Finley Trainers, White, £120, reiss.com

FOREVER NEW >> Sloan Slogan Sweat, £70, fenwick.co.uk

LIVE THE PROCESS >> Pink Hooded Stretch-Jersey Jumper, £290, harveynichols.com

VARLEY >> Berea Half-Zip Faux Shearling Sweatshirt, £130, harveynichols.com

YANA >> Drinks Bottle, Rose Gold, £20, yanaactive.co.uk

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ATHLETIC PROPULSION LABS >> Techloom Bliss Two-Tone Knitted Sneakers £175, harveynichols.com

JAN/FEB21

WHAT’S HOT

TREND WATCH

with Kate Rose, founder of lifestyle brand, Tutti & Co Inspiration to help you remain calm, content and creative in the new year...

It may not be the start to the new year that we all envisaged, but focussing on small positives will keep us going and is sure to help bring a little structure to the days ahead.

Reading... LIVE BEAUTIFUL BY ATHENA CALDERONE >> By celebrated design expert and interior designer, Athena Calderone, this book is one that truly inspires. It looks at how creatives decorate their spaces and brings them to life on the page. Tapping into her network of interior experts and fashion designers, Athena reveals how carefully-styled interiors come together and that beautiful design isn’t just pleasant to look at - it actually improves the quality of our lives. Filled with gorgeous photography, it makes for the perfect coffee table read - and it’s a total must if you are looking for a little inspiration to help kickstart your next project. Swoon-worthy indeed.

Loving… Auli home fragrance. I was very lucky to receive a beautiful set of home fragrances from contemporary lifestyle brand, Auli. Natural fragrances inspired by nature, taking inspiration from random chance encounters, juxtaposing creativity with attention to detail and high-end contemporary design. Not only does the fragrance smell divine, the smoky glass containers look beautiful on display around the home too. A real luxe treat. Prices start from £38. auli.co.uk

Wearing…

Images courtesy of NETFLIX

My wardrobe has changed somewhat over the past few months and my outdoor lifestyle is very much inspiring my recent purchases. Designed for trial runs and gentle hikes, Nike Pegasus Trail 2 sneakers are lightweight with an inner cushion to mould to your foot as you move. With a GoreTex outer, these are my go-to shoes for the many walks along the coast. They look stylish teamed with cropped jeans and a shacket for a day in the studio too. Another favourite staple piece is my Nike shield division panelled shell and jersey hoody. With panels of weather resistant shell, lightweight jersey and a slightly loose fit, it is perfect for a power walk or an outdoor gym session and looks good with black leggings. It will most likely be the most worn item in my wardrobe over the coming months. Trainers - £130, net-a-porter.com Top - £75, net-a-porter.com

Watching… Dream Home Makeover on Netflix. I’m slightly obsessed with Syd and Shea McGee (husband and wife team) and their journey creating beautiful spaces. This is certainly one to watch for any interior addicts like me. You won’t regret it. It makes for perfect lockdown binging! netflix.com

JAN/FEB21

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GLOW-GETTERS

SILKY SMOOTH >>

NATURAL SCENT >>

The REN Rosa Centifolia™ Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser is a winner when it comes to silky smooth skin. If you struggle with sensitive skin, you may find it difficult to find an exfoliator that isn’t too harsh. Packed with natural goodness, this must-have beauty tool works to purify and detoxify the skin by gently scrubbing away dead cells, revealing a bright and fresh complexion underneath. The jojoba oil gently exfoliates and hydrates, while the peppermint oil has a cooling sensation to leave skin feeling fresh and as good as new. Working alongside other wholesome ingredients, the natural jojoba beads help smooth flaky, dry skin without being harsh or aggressive. The results? The calm, smooth and firm finish we’ve all been yearning for. £19, renskincare.com

If you’re looking for the perfect new year scent while doing your bit for the environment, IKON is well worth a try. We’ve opted for the 914 - Incandescent & Refined, a blend of captivating complexity. With notes of bergamot, lime, tagete, jasmine, oud, amber and cedarwood, it’s an effortless, elegant fragrance and works both day and night. IKON is an exciting new range by The Fragrance Shop and all products are formulated with natural, vegan and responsibly-sourced ingredients and materials, balanced together to create gender-neutral tones. The packaging is stripped back and stylish, and the scents are to-die-for. £60, 100ml, thefragranceshop.co.uk

Beauty:update Check out our luxe beauty buys for 2021... GIVE YOUR SKIN A BOOST >> Quench the thirst of dry skin with a calming facial Apricot Toner by Elemis. Perfect for sensitive and delicate skin, this calming treatment toner helps maintain the natural pH level without the use of alcohol or other harsh detergents. Infused with soothing extracts of apricot, sweet betty flower and saponins from quillaja wood, this uber feelgood formula soothes and harmonizes the skin while leaving it feeling fresh and looking radiant. It also acts as a boosting base layer and aids in the penetration of moisturiser or night cream. Spritz two to three pumps on a cotton pad and gently wipe over the face and neck each morning and night after cleansing, or use as a refreshing spritzer. You won’t look back. £25, 200ml uk.elemis.com

DAZZLING EYES >>

GET THE GLOW >> Makeup meets skincare with Chanel’s new SUBLIMAGE L’ESSENCE DE TEINT - the ultimate radiance-generating serum foundation for a luminous finish and buildable coverage. Taking inspiration from both Chanel’s classic makeup range and the SUBLIMAGE skincare line, this new foundation enhances the skin’s beauty by hydrating and protecting, while offering a natural glow. The results are an effortless complexion, giving the skin the lift it needs after the harsh winter weather has taken its toll. Perfect for both day and night with buildable coverage. £110, 40ml, chanel.com

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Step up your eye game with the Tom Ford Eye Colour Quad Palette in ‘Honeymoon’. This daily must-have unites four dazzling shades including a neutral nude, a warm-bronze, a sparkling rose gold and a deep burgundy, all housed in a compact palette, perfect for creating day and night time looks all year round. Prepare to fall in love with the gorgeous pigmentation, stunning colour and seamless blend of each luxurious formula. This one is a must for your 2021 cosmetics bag as we dream about the return of weddings, holidays and social gatherings with loved ones. £68, selfridges.com

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GLOW-GETTERS

EXPERT STROKE >> A fresh set of brushes for a fresh start. The all-new Sigma Most Wanted Brush Set features five best-selling brushes hand-picked by beauty-lovers. This deluxe set is packed with the essentials to work wonders all over the face, from foundation application, to contour blending, highlighting, eyeshadow and mastering eyeliner with a steady hand. £55, fenwick.co.uk

INSPIRED BY THE SEA >> Introduce cleansing, nourishing and hydrating oils into your 2021 skincare regime with the help of isha’s Marine Cleansing Balm. Using Hebridean seaweed as its base, this organic product works wonders when it comes to banishing impurities and nurturing the skin. Hydrating ingredients include: shea butter, carnauba wax, rapeseed, almond and castor oil. An invigorating, balancing and rejuvenating blend of essential oils guaranteed to give you feel-good skin in no time. Perfect for home spa and self care rituals. £38, 100ml, ishga.com (also available at Seaham Hall Spa)

LASHES FOR DAYS >> Introducing Lola’s Lashes, the brand shaking up the beauty industry with its innovative approach to false lashes. Due to consumer demand for fuss-free and easy application, Lola’s continues to be the UK leader in vegan, magnetic lashes. As well as being super easy to apply, Lola’s Lashes are waterproof, sweatproof, and made from highquality, synthetic silk. This means the products are not only gentle on the eyes, but they’re vegan and 100% cruelty-free. Available in eight styles, each magnetic lash, liner, and remover set costs £35 and lasts at least 30 wears. Save your money, the animals and the planet while looking flawless in 2021. £35, lolaslashes.co.uk

BLOW YOU AWAY >> The Dyson Airwrap™ is a thing of beauty. Let’s start by saying this crafty device is a game changer. Washing, blow drying and styling hair can be quite the chore, but thanks to this handy tool by Dyson, all of your haircare prayers have been answered. This Airwrap comes with a choice of barrels and brushes to go from dripping wet hair to bouncy curls, beachy waves or volumised smoothness in half of the time with half of the heat. The Dyson Airwrap™ styler harnesses an aerodynamic phenomenon called the ‘coanda’ effect. It curves air to attract and wrap hair to the barrel. Styling with air, not extreme heat. A win, win if you ask us! £449.99, dyson.co.uk

JAN/FEB21

HANDS FREE >> New year, new lockdown, new skincare regime. There’s never been a better time to indulge in self care and with beauty tool brand Brushworks recently launching a handful of new tools, skincare-lovers are in for a treat. First up, the Brushworks Ice Roller, ideal for easing muscles, boosting circulation and stimulating blood flow to the face, which can make your skin look brighter and feel firmer. Next on the list is Brushworks Cleansing Mask Applicator, a 2-in-1 tool to help apply face masks, while cleansing and nourishing the products into the skin. This handy gadget is great for making our lives easier and creates zero mess. Not to mention the hygiene benefits - no hands, no excess oils or dirt. Ice Roller, £14.99, Cleansing Mask Applicator, £7.99, soinvogue.com

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SLEEP HAPPY

Dream a little longer... I think it’s fair to say the past year has been anything but normal, but it has also taught us a lot, particularly surrounding selfcare and the importance of looking after ourselves. With that in mind, Nicole Wood checks in with Lauren Reece, founder of Bulan Living, to discuss the importance of wellbeing, a good night’s sleep and the ability to switch off from the world around us NW: How important is wellbeing in your lifestyle and business? LR: Wellbeing is a huge part of my life, which is a big reason why I set up a business focused on providing products to help create relaxing spaces. I am a huge believer in making sure that you look after you. When you feel content in the mind and body, the rest will follow. NW: What would be your top tips for someone who is feeling exhausted or burnt out? LR: Firstly, I believe a good night’s sleep is absolutely essential to avoid burning yourself out. Aside from that, I find that taking 15-20 minutes at the end of each day for myself - maybe to read a book or take a bath - really goes a long way in keeping myself grounded and relaxed. NW: Your go-to Bulan products for someone looking to indulge in a little bit of ‘me time’? LR: It’s difficult to choose; our range of candles, diffusers and luxurious silk products are perfect for ‘me time’, but I’d

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have to say our gorgeous hydro cotton robe is absolutely essential. It’s so comfortable and warm - an absolute must for a cold winter’s night. We are also launching our bedding products in February, which we promise will provide the most luxurious experience to send you off to ‘dreamtime’. NW: What does your nighttime routine look like? LR: My nighttime routine usually begins by searching for home ideas on Pinterest while sitting in front of the TV in my Bulan robe, watching the latest binge-worthy series with a couple of candles burning, of course. I can’t go to sleep before completing my wind-down facial skincare routine, which is cleansing twice (trust me, you will thank me later), toning, applying serum and moisturising. NW: How important is routine? LR: I personally believe it’s very important. There has to be a certain structure to each day in order to make sure you’re making the most of it. Especially now with lockdown restrictions; having a routine can help you feel there is a purpose to each and every day. It’s the best way to be.

NW: Would you say investing in good quality products is key to a good night’s sleep? LR: Yes, I think so. It goes back to the question about wellbeing, it’s really important to create a sanctuary for yourself. On average, you spend 33 years of your life in bed. I firmly believe that investing in yourself and your environment, and ensuring the best possible night’s sleep, will always be a fantastic choice.

NW: How important is it to switch off from distractions such as social media before bed? LR: A wind down routine is so important for me to be able to have a good night’s sleep. I try to stay away from all screens for about 45 minutes before I go to sleep. As of late, I have been conscious of the amount of time I spend online, so I have set a timer that reminds me to put my phone down more often. It works… some of the time!

NW: Which aromas do you recommend for sleep and relaxation? LR: Choosing a scent is so personal and different for everyone, it really depends on what aromas evoke emotion or memories for that person. My personal preference is our Bergamot & Musk candle which I light every night - it is so fresh and soothing. For general relaxation, I would recommend our Dark Noir candle.

NW: Where do you source your products? LR: Our robes are made in Turkey, a country famous for the quality of its materials. They are hydro-cotton and made using an advanced weaving technique to create fabric loops which makes the material softer than other cotton towelling. With the bedding, I spent months sourcing the most breathable, comfortable and manageable fabrics to ensure an amazing night’s sleep. I am so proud of our products and the hard work that has gone into finding the perfect materials and design, and I am so happy to be able to finally share them with customers. NW: Are there any new products on the horizon? LR: We are launching lots of exciting products this year. We have PJs, loungewear and new candle scents coming very soon. We are also launching our bedding early this year, so keep an eye out for that. However, what I am most excited for is we will soon be launching our hydro cotton robes for babies, from ages 0-3 years old. I gave my goddaughter one for Christmas and I have to say that it is probably the cutest thing I’ve ever seen. bulanliving.com

JAN/FEB21

LUXE LOVES

LUXE LOVES Love matters >>

Let love light up your space with this lovely Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Atelier Natalie Willmot heart iron lamp. Made from elements of Art Deco balcony balustrades from Lebanon and finished with a coral lampshade. Perfect. Heart Wrought Iron Lamp, ÂŁ300. nataliawillmott.co.uk

JAN/FEB21

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LUXE LOCKS

TI M E TO G O B I G So here we are - finally 2021 has arrived! I, for one, have longed for the day when we could finally turn our back on a year that we’d all rather forget. Granted, the new year hasn’t gotten off to a very good start with a lockdown stopping us going about our everyday lives, but… there’s lots to look forward to and with the vaccine programmes well under way, surely that signifies the light at the end of the tunnel. It is definitely good for the soul to keep your glass half full and always look for the positives no matter how down we may feel. Take me for example - New Year’s Eve, I was collecting logs for the fire at ten past midnight, slipped on ice and broke my leg in two places! Exactly one year since Gary broke his leg - you couldn’t write it. A pretty gruesome operation and a three-night stay in hospital and I’m now on the mend and just really thankful that this is all happening while we’re all stuck at home. So that’s me talking the positive from the situation, and

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being looked after, of course, isn’t too bad either. Hopefully it won’t be too long before we can open the salons to all you lovely people once again and get everyone looking fantastic for the year ahead. At time of writing we don’t have a date as to when this will be, but I assure you that, when we get the green light, it will be all systems go! Let’s face it, it’s not like we haven’t been down this road before, so everybody has already had a trial run of enduring long periods without the help of the professionals. Anyway, back to the hair. This stunning over-sized style is beautifully wintery and utterly gorgeous. We hope you agree? Why under do it when you can over do it! Inspired by the world’s most luxurious fashion houses, we created this look to inspire women to be strong, bold and independent. Styled with a simple tuxedo jacket and statement shades, the overall look really does epitomise everything about the H&Y brand. Happy hair days are coming, hang on in there. Michael x

Michael Young and Gary Hooker run Hooker & Young, with four salons across the North East. hookerandyoung.co.uk

JAN/FEB21

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WILD & WONDERFUL

Making waves

Getting out in the great outdoors has never been so important, says Hayley Dorian, founder of Wild Sea Women - a group of girls empowered by the natural cold water that surrounds us. Elysia Fryer finds out more…

I think it’s fair to say that, whatever it is that we’ve experienced in recent months, we have all used the breath as a coping mechanism. It’s something so simple, yet oh-so effective. The breath is something that I never stopped and listened to, until I took up yoga. Now, much of what I do and how I’m feeling can be controlled by the power of the breath. When I was young, my mum would tell me to ‘breathe and count to 10’. Now, an avid yogi, I’m starting to think she was on to something... Yoga is my therapy of choice, but for others, it can be meditation, walking, running, cycling, cooking or reading, to name but a few. For Hayley Dorian and her group of Wild Sea Women, therapy comes in the form of the glorious cold waters. Hayley’s new office is the North Sea and after years of working in a fast-paced, desk-based IT job, nothing beats this new, natural environment she finds herself in on a daily basis. “I’ve always loved the buzz of cold water,

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ever since I was little,” Hayley explains. “In my twenties I started going into the sea - literally dipping in for a couple of minutes and then coming out. “I never really knew the health benefits around it, I just knew it made me feel so good and alive. In the last three years or so, I started going in daily because I found out that there were loads of positive benefits to mental health and physical wellbeing.” Yes, something as simple as a dip in the sea can indeed save a life - and that’s where Hayley’s passion for wild swimming came from. Taking the power of the breath and the cold water, and putting it to good use. The Wild Sea Women meet weekly at each of their locations on a Sunday evening to take a dip to help reset the mind and body ready for the week ahead. “It’s a great place for women from all walks of life to get together, meet new people and just enjoy the simplicity of getting in the cold water and feeling the instant health benefits,” Hayley says. “I had pneumonia years ago and was told my lungs would never be healthy again. I wanted to prove them wrong, so I began learning about the most optimal ways of breathing and began right away putting

them into practice and saw a massive improvement in my health. “I was also diagnosed with an autoimmune disease about four years ago and the cold water has been my biggest medicine. I suffered very badly with chronic migraines, but it’s very rare I get a migraine now. If I do feel one coming on, I go into the sea, dip my head under, and like magic, it’s gone. “After noticing the health benefits, I decided to start digging deeper into the science behind it, and I stumbled across the Wim Hof Method. “It’s all about the benefits of cold exposure along with breathing techniques for our

mind and body. Wim Hof is a Dutch extreme athlete - he has World Records in being able to withstand the cold, sitting in ice baths for hours. He’s known as ‘The Iceman’. “He has a really sad story. His wife, who he had four young children with, died of suicide when the kids were really young. He’d always been one for going into the cold water and knew how much it helped him in his own state of mind - to get through life. So that’s how the method was brought to life. He wanted to help and inspire others who were going through similar situations.” Hayley’s results, paired with her knowledge of the Wim Hof Method, triggered a lightbulb moment. A moment when she

It was time for Hayley to ditch her career as a firewall and network engineer and make the water her new workplace JAN/FEB21

WILD & WONDERFUL decided it was time for her to ditch her career as a firewall and network engineer and make the water her new workplace. “So with my newfound knowledge, I decided to do a teacher training course to become a Wim Hof Method instructor because it’s so in line with everything that I believe in. “The Wim Hof method is mainly all male dominant, so I just wanted to get more women into the sea, to experience the power of the cold water. “So, during the first lockdown period, I decided to put a social media post out to invite other likeminded women along for a dip in the sea. It really took off, then I created a Facebook group for Wild Sea Women and it has just taken a life of its own, and it’s so wonderful to see how many lives are being impacted in a positive way.” The initial lockdown was a tough time for many, and by putting a positive spin on her personal developments, it presented the perfect opportunity for Hayley to share her discoveries with others looking to get out

and enjoy what nature presents to us. “I read a lot about mental health and people suffering being stuck at home, so I just thought, I’m going to do something to help. Whenever I’m feeling low, I head to the beach, go into the water, and I come out feeling invigorated. I wanted other people to share this experience - not only because it works for me, but because it’s scientifically proven to work magic. “When you go in the cold water, it doesn’t matter what’s going on in your mind, you naturally switch off because you’re just thinking about surviving. “It’s my favourite form of meditation.” Now is a fantastic time to get out there

JAN/FEB21

and try something new, Hayley tells me. We’re all looking for new ways to enjoy nature, particularly as the cooler weather sets in - and, believe it or not, the colder it is, the more beneficial a dip in the North Sea will be. “I hope everyone does continue enjoying the great outdoors throughout the winter,” says Hayley. “People are always really surprised that we go into the sea all year round, but it’s just so beautiful and it’s cold all year anyway,” she laughs. So, what’s the science behind the method? “In itself, it’s a cardiovascular workout because your blood vessels constrict as you go into the water, and then when they open back up, it really gets your heart going,” explains Hayley. “It increases white blood cells, which boosts our immune system. It also builds brown fat, which is good fat and burns the white fat. The more we go in the cold, the more brown fat we build up and the longer we can

withstand the cold. It conditions the whole body and brings with it mental clarity and focus, perfect for anyone suffering with depression, anxiety or ADHD. “There are so many benefits which are all backed up by science. “A lot of the time people think we’re lunatics, looking for punishment, but it isn’t, it’s just so addictive once you try it and you soon notice the benefits.” Hayley and her group of Wild Sea Women meet up once a week, but quite often check in a couple of times between sessions for a quick dip, a bit of yoga, meditation or a stroll along the shore. “Sunrise and moonlit dips are everyone’s

favourites,” says Hayley. “So we tend to just keep an eye on the weather and the sea conditions and pop in whenever we feel like it.” It all sounds like a lot of fun, right? But just how does someone take the plunge? Again, as I’ve learnt with yoga and now with wild sea swimming, it all comes down to the breath… “If people feel like they’re ready to give it a go, I help the women by focusing on the breath, especially on the exhale. Relaxation is in the exhalation. When you go in the cold, it does take your breath away and you gasp, and that’s when panic sets in we just need to focus on our breath. “We do guided breathing beforehand, which really helps calm the nerves. And then, with us being in a group, everyone is just so great at encouraging one another and it’s so heartwarming to hear the laughs and see faces lighting up. “I’ve never seen anyone turn back and give up on it. They do it, they come back for

more the following week, then the women start taking to the water with their own groups of friends. It’s lovely to see so much support here in our community.” Along with her daughter, Summer, and her poochy companion, Cleo, Hayley sees no signs of slowing down as we head into the new year and the cold weather bites. “It’s all about the winter for me. I’ve always loved the season. We even go in on Christmas Day, it’s just a massive part of our lives. “There’s just something so beautiful and still about getting up early in the winter and dipping in the North Sea. “My dog, Cleo, likes to come in the water with me too. It’s lovely to go out in a group, but sometimes it’s nice to just appreciate the silence by going in pairs with a relative or friend (it’s never advised to go in the sea alone). It’s the best kind of therapy, nothing brings you to the present moment like the cold does.” Wild Sea Women is ever-growing and >>

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WILD & WONDERFUL expanding, and it’s great to see it spreading across the region. “We meet up at Seaburn beach every Sunday evening. We’ve also got Wild Sea Women leaders hosting sessions in North Tyneside, Seaham, South Shields and even Scotland. It’s wonderful to see it growing and to see new communitites forming in the process. It’s a place for mental and physical health, but it’s also a place where new friendships form. “To anyone wishing to give cold water dipping a try, we’ve got lots of safety tips

and advice on the website including tips from the RNLI, who we have been working very closely with to ensure everyone is aware of the potential dangers of the sea before taking the ‘plunge’. “We often get asked, ‘what about men?’... well, we do have a group for men called Iceguys, which is run by Christopher Nicholas here in Sunderland. This group is also beginning to expand to other parts of the UK.” For more information about Wild Sea Women and how you can get involved

this year, visit the Wild Sea Women website or keep up to date on social media. Prepare to be blown away by the bravery and inspiration! xhayle.com/wildseawomen instagram.com/wildseawomen wildseawomen.com

There’s just something so beautiful and still about getting up early in the winter and dipping in the North Sea

Hayley’s Wild Sea Women >> NAME: Angela Thompson JOB TITLE: Associate Director, Joe Halliday Recruitment SHORT BIO: I was introduced to sea swimming about three years ago when Hayley asked me to come along as I was suffering from depression and a few health conditions. Hayley introduced me to the Wild Sea Women group, so I decided to join, take up a new hobby, meet new friends and get help and advice from other swimmers. I’ve been open water swimming since… February 2018. My first dip was… an instant success - I all of a sudden felt like I could breathe again. I love it because… it helps with some of the medical conditions I have as the cold water eases them, takes the swelling down and has amazing effects on my mental health. I knew it was going to make a difference when… the first time I got out of the water, my head felt clear and I was relaxed. I was

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totally revived and instantly felt like I could function better. Three top tips for anyone taking the plunge… make sure you check the tide wind and waves before you swim, remember your breathing and try to get your shoulders in as soon as you can, and finally - wrap a nice big towel around a hot water bottle so it is warm when you get out. NAME: Elaine Smith JOB TITLE: Founder of Hotpod Yoga Sunderland SHORT BIO: I discovered the benefits of wild sea swimming after teaching a yoga class on the beach, taking a deep breath and giving it a go, and I’ve never looked back. I’ve been open water swimming since… July 2018. My first dip was… at Slope Beach in Seaham. I was teaching a yoga class on the beach and afterwards my friend Hayley

started heading towards the sea for a dip. I thought she was mad! But I came prepared the following week and took the plunge. I love it because… it feels so empowering. You find inner strength and resilience. Plus, I’ve met an amazing group of like-minded people. I knew it was going to make a difference when... I found myself jumping out of bed at 5am in the summer to catch the sunrise every morning. It feels like a reset button. Three top tips for anyone taking the plunge… focus on your breathing, Neoprene boots and gloves can help ease the blow in the winter, and take a flask and hot water bottle with you to warm up afterwards. A slice of cake always helps too! NAME: Caroline Wickham JOB TITLE: Housewife SHORT BIO: I’m a single mum to my beautiful son and live in Sunderland.

During the first lockdown I tried a swim in the sea with friends and ended up back in touch with a girl I already knew. I started to swim with her and she introduced me to WSW. It’s now a massive part of my life and I cannot recommend it enough. I’ve been open water swimming since… June 2020. My first dip was… last summer, and now it has become a huge part of my life. I love it because… believe it or not, it is incredibly addictive and helps massively with my anxiety. It’s such a great tool. I knew it was going to make a difference when… I was no longer feeling anxious and it just gave me this huge buzz which I couldn’t get enough of. Three top tips for anyone taking the plunge… don’t go it alone - join a group or dip with a friend, make sure you have warm clothes and a hot drink for afterwards, and prepare to become addicted!

JAN/FEB21

LUXE LOVES

LUXE LOVES Dreamy moments This super soft and snuggly sheepskin bed runner is a deeply luxurious addition to the inner sanctuary of your bedroom. The perfect tool to help you drift off to dreamtime in effortless style this year. Gotland Sheepskin Bed Runner, ÂŁ1,595. nordichouse.co.uk

JAN/FEB21

luxe-magazine.co.uk

PLANNING AHEAD

ON THE HOOF with Deborah Smith to cater for all disciplines, that were quality enough for professionals, yet affordable enough for amateur riders. And what lovely saddles they are. All AMZ saddles are bespoke and made to measure, ensuring the horse is comfortable, whilst providing the rider with the style of saddle that they prefer. There are also many personalisation options, which means customers can have exactly what they want. AMZ covers a huge area (pretty much the whole of the country), but predominantly, the North East, Yorkshire, Cumbria and Scotland. Alongside the saddles, they also do a range of stirrup leathers, girths and bridles. More recently, they have added merchandise which is very popular. There are jackets, t-shirts, belts, caps, hats, fly veils, saddlecloths, brow bands, and rugs. COVID allowing, Amy plans to be back on the show circuit in 2021 with the trade stand where, alongside being able to see the saddles and book appointments, merchandise is available to buy. The business is going from strength to strength and there is now too much for Amy to do alone, so her husband Callum helps with the day-to-day running, and Faye Archer oversees all marketing and social media, which means Amy can be travelling and visiting customers (her favourite part). So, another business flying the flag for the region in style, and hopefully a young horse doing the same very soon.

Full steam ahead for 2021 With everything crossed for 2021, the spring and summer beckon, and hopefully we can all continue competing and making up for what we missed last year. With limited outings, I was so happy to have picked up a couple of qualifications with Oli and Strider, and they have both come through the winter as keen as ever to be out and about. First up is the Dressage Regional Championships with Oli, so we’re looking forward to putting our winter training into action. Also keen to be out competing is Amy Taylor, founder and owner of AMZ Saddles. Amy has a young and promising five-year-old, Good Boy, who, as well as living up to his name and being a joy to own, has impeccable showjumping breeding with John Whittaker’s legendary Peppermill as his sire. With Peppermill being in the British team at the 2006 World Equestrian Games, the 2008 Olympic Games and winning Team Bronze at the 2007 and the 2011 European Championships, it’s little wonder Amy has such high hopes for Good Boy. “Good Boy is currently around 17hh with a bit more growing to do. He has the most loving temperament and is generally

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very easy going. He is very intelligent and inquisitive,” says Amy. With his dam, Evita, also having showjumping bloodlines, it’s easy to see why Amy is keen to get started with Good Boy. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, Amy couldn’t take him out to launch his career in 2020, but a positive from this is that it has allowed him to develop without being pushed, and for Amy to build a bond with him. This year, the plan is for him to gain his British Novice and Discovery double clears, with the aim of jumping some of the later-in-the-calendar 5-year-old classes in 2021. “It would be amazing to qualify him for the world young horse championships,” she adds. Amy is also expanding her selection of other youngsters of similar quality who she hopes will follow on over the coming years. This includes a 3-year-old colt and Good Boy’s half-sister, who she is hoping to have graded as an approved stallion next year. She is out of the same dam ‘Evita’, but sired by a young stallion named ‘Just Special’ who is by the very talented and successful ‘I’m Special de Muze’. Just Special is owned and ridden by Olympic showjumper, Geoff Billington. And it’s not just the breeding side which is keeping Amy busy, with AMZ saddles expanding in 2020 despite the difficult conditions. She wanted to create her own brand and the vision was always to create beautiful saddles,

Top left, Amy with Good Boy Top to bottom, Harry Wood, Pip Nixon and Pip Sinclair all AMZ sponsored riders. All images: Tracy Kidd Photography

JAN/FEB21

Design Your Delcor. Personal design with limitless possibilities.

Visit us online at delcor.co.uk or call us to discuss exploring our selection safely on 0191 237 1303 50 Year Guarantee* | 100% British Made | Made To Measure Northumberland Store, Delcor House, Double Row, Seaton Delaval, Northumberland, NE25 0PR *Visit our webite for full terms and conditions

NATURE CALLS

A moment in Pine

Restaurant Pine is the debut restaurant of Cal Byerley and partner Siân Buchan. Sitting in a picture-postcard spot with the rolling Northumberland countryside as its backdrop and championing homegrown ingredients from the very land he spent much of his childhood, life has come somewhat full circle for Cal. Luxe checks in to talk all things Pine... LUXE: First of all, what can you tell us about Restaurant Pine? SIÂN: It’s been a lifelong dream of both of ours to open up our own place. We’ve both got the exact same vision, it’s all just coming into fruition now, and it’s incredibly exciting to share it with our friends, family and foodies of the North East and beyond. It’s a lovely, open-plan restaurant with big windows giving beautiful views of the Northumberland countryside. We’ll be offering afternoon tea and a really generous 16-19 course tasting menu. Our whole ethos is to make the most of what we have available in the countryside, and what we can grow ourselves in our kitchen farm. It’s all about being a little bit more responsible and sustainable. CAL: Pine is all about incorporating plant-based dishes and foraged ingredients. The location is perfect for us because we wanted somewhere accessible, but also somewhere that screams countryside (there’s a tractor literally going past us right now, excuse the noise!). We’re based on a farm, which is lovely because I grew up on a farm just down the road. It just felt right. It’s an old cow barn that’s been beautifully converted, making the most of the stunning scenery - the view is literally to-die-for. LUXE: This is your debut restaurant, what made you take the plunge? CAL: We’ve been looking around and waiting

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for the right moment for some time now. It’s been bubbling for the last two years or so, but it was just about finding the right spot. At first we looked at city centre locations, and straight away it just didn’t fit the brief - it didn’t feel ‘us’. Then we looked at lovely towns and villages in Northumberland like Corbridge, which is very local to us. SIÂN: The trouble is, we wanted something modern - we wanted to put our kitchen inside the restaurant, so guests can see what happens behind the scenes - and in Corbridge most buildings are Listed, so we were struggling to find something that would suit. CAL: All we wanted was a big square room - and this had that. It also had a previously existing kitchen downstairs which was kitted out. We’ve got a kitchen we can work out of during the day for the production side of

things, then we’ve got our open-plan kitchen as our focal point. We viewed it a year ago. We saw an old listing online. We didn’t make an appointment, we just popped to see it. SIÂN: We absolutely loved it - but soon discovered that it wasn’t on the market. CAL: We were pretty narked for the rest of the day because it was such a perfect place. When we did eventually find out it was available and came across the kitchen and kitchen garden, we were blown away. Ken Holland, who is one of the most renowned growers in the UK, his own set up is literally on the farm, just a short stroll from the restaurant. SIÂN: It was around May and we were really busy doing our afternoon tea deliveries. We met the landlord and that was it. They were sold on us and we were invested from the very minute. We just thought, gosh, we’re never going to find another opportunity to have the perfect restaurant space and the perfect kitchen space, on a farm. Then lockdown hit and it just seemed like the perfect opportunity to spend a bit of time bringing our vision to life. LUXE: How are you finding working together? SIÂN: Oh, we’ve done this before, so we’re used to it. I used to be restaurant manager at Jesmond Dene House where Cal was

head pastry chef, so we already knew we could work together really well. We are spending a lot of time together, so it’s a good job we enjoy each other’s company! LUXE: Where did you find your inspiration for the restaurant? CAL: It’s all based on my cooking style really. Working for Kevin Tickle at Forest Side for so many years, and before that working for Simon Rogan at Rogan & Co, your style just sort of develops and takes on a life of its own. This style of cooking just feels right to me. Foraging, plant-based dishes, interesting things that you wouldn’t necessarily see on your average menu. I always say, ‘If you can do it at home, there’s no point in going to a restaurant for it, it needs to be special.’ It’s all about making it interesting for the diner, as well as for me and the staff. One of the best ways to keep your team happy is to make it interesting and enjoyable. LUXE: And where did the name come from? SIÂN: We decided on the name before we actually got the premises. CAL: Pine has so many meanings for us both. SIÂN: In the dictionary, pine is ‘to want something’ or ‘to yearn for something’ and the restaurant is something that we’ve been yearning for together - something that we’ve always wanted. CAL: Pine is also one of my favourite plants. It grows around the restaurant and on our farm, and it’s something I like to cook with. It’s featured on the menu, it’s a really lovely flavour. So all of those combinations just came together and it worked. Our farm is now actually a timber yard. My family have been on the farm since 1805, it goes back so many generations. In the past five or six years, we’ve reverted to a lumber yard.

JAN/FEB21

NATURE CALLS

My brother has a timber company, so we’re surrounded by trees, as you can imagine. SIÂN: It’s also a really nice word. It’s short and sweet, and it just works. LUXE: Cal, it’s lovely to see your career come full circle, bringing you back home to set up your own business. What can you tell us about your journey? CAL: I started working at the pub across the road from where we are now at the age of 15. My dad dropped me off one day and told me I had a job washing pots. At 15-years-old, I didn’t really want to do that, I would’ve been happier just hanging out with my mates. But it was great getting stuck in at an early age and I quickly progressed into the kitchen. From there, I went on to work as head pastry chef at Wynyard Hall, Jesmond Dene House, Rogan & Co in the Lakes, and then my fondest food memories were made at Andrew Wildsmith’s hotel, Forest Side, under Kevin Tickle. I worked there for nearly five years, right from the outset, so there was a six month planning period where we got the kitchen gardens up and running. It was a very special project to be involved in. It was one of the fastest Michelin stars outside of London. It was amazing.

JAN/FEB21

More recently, I was working with Danny Parker at Jesmond Dene House - that was my route back to the North East I guess. I’d lived away for years - I was in the Lakes for seven years and I was in France for almost a year, so it was nice to get home. When I started cooking, I knew that I needed to get away to get as much experience as possible, so I made the plunge, moved to the Lakes and loved every minute of it - but it’s always nice to be home. It’s incredibly rewarding to come back and do something really exciting right on the doorstep - and to be able to share it with close friends and family. It’s a total dream. LUXE: Siân, what can you tell us about your route into the food world and how you crossed paths with Cal? SIÂN: I have been in the industry all of my life. I started as a waitress at the Malmaison. I never intended on staying in the industry. My dream was to be a hotel manager and travel the world, but I ended up discovering a real love for hospitality. As soon as I turned 21, I went to work on the Seabourn fleet, which is a seven star cruise line - high attention to detail and very high quality. You had to be a millionaire to be a passenger, so you had to be very good at your job. I quickly moved up the ranks there, I saw a lot of the world - everywhere from the Caribbean, to Hawaii, Bora Bora, the Mediterranean. I was very, very fortunate. I absolutely loved it. But just like Cal, I wanted to come home and spend time with my family. I came home and got a job working at House of Tides for Kenny Atkinson. I worked there for about two years. I started as a chef de rang (or to anyone else, a waitress!), then I was promoted to head waitress, then to supervisor, then to assistant manager. >>

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NATURE CALLS LUXE: How is the space looking? SIÂN: We don’t really need too much in terms of decoration because when you walk into the restaurant you’re greeted with gorgeous, floor-to-ceiling windows, with a breathtaking view of the countryside. Inside, we’ve got a bar area which we hope to open in the spring. The colour palette is based on eucalyptus, grey and white - it’s very natural, light and fresh. Everything is handmade and bespoke. The tables have been made by a local joiner, the kitchen has been custom built, so it’s exactly what we need it to be. It’s a real focal point in the restaurant, so that was important to us. CAL: Like Siân says, everything is very bespoke. We’ve had the pottery made by Victoria Brook, who has My Giant Hands Made These pottery studio in Ouseburn. She is fantastic. We sat down with her for hours to get things right. SIÂN: Our dried-flower wall is a real focal point too. It’s the first thing you are greeted with when you step inside at ground level, then you walk up the beautiful industrialstyle staircase and hanging dried flowers fill up the roof space. A fresh scent hits you as you walk in the room. It’s breathtaking. That has all been created by the lovely Jules Fleur. CAL: We really appreciate nature, so we wanted to bring it inside. Pair that with the views and glorious homegrown dishes, and we hope we’ll make you feel right at home in the Northumberland countryside.

I wanted to dip my toes into daytime hours, so I got a job teaching hospitality at Newcastle College, which is where I got my degree in hospitality. Along with about a thousand other people, I was sadly made redundant, so at that point I wanted to just go straight back into working in restaurants as I really missed it. That’s where I met Cal, we worked together at Jesmond Dene House. We very quickly discovered that we had the same dreams of opening up a restaurant. More recently, I went to work as restaurant manager at Träkol, a place that is very special to me - my favourite restaurant in Newcastle. I was furloughed during the first lockdown and that’s when we started putting our heads together and moving forward with our plans. LUXE: What curveballs has the pandemic thrown in? SIÂN: It’s been bitter-sweet I would say. We’ve used the time to help us get to where we need to be. CAL: We’ve had a chance to work on all of the dishes, develop new ideas and make sure everything flows nicely. There’s so much to think about when opening a restaurant, so we’re enjoying ticking everything off before we officially get underway sharing it with customers. LUXE: What can you tell us about the food offering? CAL: The afternoon tea, which we run Thursday to Sunday, is a classic three-tier afternoon tea, with a few little tweaks to make it really special. Our sommelier, Vanessa, is on hand to pair a selection of English wines. If you’re a wine-lover, it’s really going to boost the experience. In terms of the cakes, you’ll find traditional treats like eclairs and tarts, all made to the highest standards. SIÂN: We have a real focus on quality when it comes to our cakes and wines.

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For example, our wines are natural and sustainable. We’re trying to support local businesses as much as we can too. Cal has a real appreciation for the finer details - everything has to be pristine, which is important when it comes to afternoon tea. CAL: For me, it’s also about using the best of the best seasonal ingredients. Even little things like eggs. We get our eggs from a business in Matfen that offer lovely free-range eggs, and the difference in quality is unbelievable. Something so humble as an egg can make such a huge difference in cooking. It’s all about reducing the food miles. Nothing will be sat in a warehouse for months before it has made its way to the kitchen, we know exactly where everything is coming from. It’s just being a bit more responsible, and you can really taste the difference. That goes for the evening tasting menu as well. A lot of plant-based dishes, foraged ingredients, all seasonal and homegrown. There will be things that are picked 30 minutes before your dinner. That is, for me, the most important thing. Everything should taste what it should taste like. LUXE: And what about the wines? SIÂN: In addition to the wine pairings with the tasting menu, diners will also be offered a special drinks pairing, steering away from the alcoholic options. Because we are based in a rural area of Northumberland, we do expect that some people will be driving, so thought it was really important that we had some really creative, non-alcoholic drinks on offer too. CAL: So you can literally have a flight of non-alcoholic beverages. We’ve got elderberry kombucha - using fresh elderberries picked on the farm, we’ve got a sea buckthorn drink, a sorrel drink foraged on the farm and made into a syrup. It’s all about using different flavours prepared in creative new ways.

LUXE: So, the location is key? CAL: I just love the countryside. It’s nice to be close enough to Newcastle, but also be able to have this amazing scenery on our doorstep. After spending so many years away, it’s nice to be close to family, especially during this time of such uncertainty. We actually live on the same farm as my mam and dad, where I spent much of my childhood. I did a little bit of farming growing up, but that was more my brother’s thing. I drifted away from the farm and decided to do something a little different but taking that love of growing and foraging with me. My mam was always an amazing cook, so I think that’s probably where I got the bug. After living in the Lake District - such a beautiful part of the world - and seeing what Kev did in his local area, I just thought, ‘How amazing would it be to do something as special as Forest Side in Northumberland?’ LUXE: What’s in the pipeline for 2021? SIÂN: We do hope to expand our brand eventually. We’ll be adding a bar in the coming months, where there will be a lovely lounge area with a huge log burner. The only reason why we’re not opening that right now is because we want to focus on the restaurant to begin with. The bar/lounge will be a relaxing space

where you don’t necessarily have to have a reservation. You can pop in and have a cocktail, or a beautiful coffee. It’s going to be such a lovely, warm and inviting space. Personally, I’d be getting a magazine (Luxe Magazine of course!), sitting in front of that fire with a coffee and whiling away the hours. Bliss. We’ve also got plans to expand another area where we could host larger parties up to 12. Many years down the line, we’d love to open up a brunch spot with a patisserie and tearoom, and also a wine shop - all of our favourite things in one. CAL: Hopefully this will all come into play soon, but with current restrictions and uncertainty, it just doesn’t make sense right now and we want to be able to do it properly, so keep an eye out for that. Exciting stuff. LUXE: How do you switch off and enjoy a bit of downtime? SIÂN: Cal has always been into growing his own ingredients; we have our own veg patch at home, and because I had more time on my hands during the first lockdown, I’ve taken on a new hobby of planting flowers. Seeing them grow from tiny seeds to big, amazing flowers just gives me so much joy. It’s something I’m actually going to be bringing to the restaurant. I’m going to be growing my own flowers to use as table centrepieces. I love learning about what we can grow and what we can do to show off the best of what Northumberland can offer. CAL: We love eating out when time allows. SIÂN: But a lot of the time, because we work so many hours, you can’t beat just curling up on the sofa, watching a film and just drifting off. CAL: We love a Netflix binge. Have you seen The Queen’s Gambit? Watch it - it’s so good! LUXE: And finally, your three luxe things in life? SIÂN: Animals. I think I’m the world’s biggest animal-lover. I go to Crufts every year. I’m obsessed with dogs - I’m such a dog-botherer! My dream is to have tons of dogs running around the farm, sorry Cal! CAL: The garden - I couldn’t live without the outdoors. Growing stuff is such an amazing thing. SIÂN: We both love Nkuku - a lot of our restaurant furniture is from here. They do a lot of natural stuff, all made from elements. restaurantpine.co.uk

JAN/FEB21

YES CHEF

HOME COMFORTS with chef Chris Baber Festive reflections, healthy changes and super sprouts... MY WORLD >> It was lovely to be able to spend Christmas back home with the family in Hexham. It was really nice to get together for a small, family gathering, with absolutely no pressure to make it a big, blow-out celebration. It was actually a really nice opportunity to go back to basics and enjoy the festive season for what it is. After lockdown in London, it was a great chance for me to get out and enjoy the countryside - something I always miss when I’m down in the city. From family hikes along Hadrian’s Wall and strolls on the beach followed by fish and chips at Whitley Bay, to day trips to the Lake District, it really does remind me why I love where I come from. In other news, I’ve taken up yoga, which has set me in good stead for the new year. Quite often, people leave new hobbies and fitness regimes for the turn of the year, but I was keen to get started with something new so that I’m ready and raring to go come January. I’ve been really enjoying my online yoga sessions. I’ve been recovering from an injury, so it’s been a good chance to focus on what my body needs. I’m hoping, when restrictions ease, I can get to a studio and enjoy face-to-face classes. Normally, I’m set in my ways with my cycling and weight training, so trying something new has been really interesting - I feel good for it. Spending much of my time in the kitchen, my posture is not the greatest, and I’ve found that yoga is helping me be a little bit more aware of it. MY FOOD DIARY >> Foodwise, I’ve developed a number of healthy recipes for M&S. As always, people are looking to make healthy changes in January, but what I don’t want to compromise on is the flavour, so these recipes are all about keeping as much flavour as possible, but including your ‘five a day’. Healthy comfort food is the way I would put it, because it’s still the winter, nobody wants to be eating salads just yet. My Instagram Live Cookalongs have been proving very popular. I did a lovely teriyaki salmon with Tom Daley, which went down really well. It was an easy, healthy and family-friendly dish - he made it with his young son Robbie and his husband Lance.

INSPIRED BY THE SEASONS >> A lot of people leave sprouts for Christmas dinner, but they’re still delicious in January/ February, so I always try to get creative with them and come up with something a little different. Something I discovered in a Japanese restaurant has become my new favourite way to cook sprouts. Miso roast sprouts are amazing. Simply cut your sprouts in half, pop them on a baking tray then in a little bowl mix together a couple of spoonfuls of miso, a drizzle of oil and a squeeze of lime juice. Mix it together, coat the sprouts and then roast them in a really hot oven until they’re crispy. It just takes you away from that rich, festive food - you’ve got a bit of spice to make it interesting. A great way to liven them up.

JAN/FEB21

I did another Live Cookalong with Judy Joo, an amazing Korean chef. She taught me her version of a Philly cheese steak - that was great fun. The Cookalongs have been really engaging. In the lockdown period, it was a good way for us to socialise and interact with each other. Cooking and eating the same thing together, virtually - it creates a bit of community, it’s great. While in London, I’ve been trying some restaurant delivery services, simply because I want to support my local restaurants and the industry as a whole. It’s impressive how restaurants have been able to adapt by sending really good, restaurant-quality food to people’s houses. I had a really nice at-home experience from Hakkasan in Mayfair, and I had a lovely Mexican from a place called Casa Calavera. In other news, I’ve invested in a pizza oven and I’m looking forward to hosting pizza parties in the spring/summer months. With Chinese New Year coming up in February, I’ve been thinking about some of my favourite Chinese dishes. You’ll see some recipes popping up on my Instagram feed in the next month or so. This year, one thing I’m definitely going to be making is ginger and spring onion prawns. There’s a nice local story behind this dish. When I was 16, I got my first restaurant job at a Chinese restaurant in Hexham called Golden Dragon. The owner, Will, and his parents, Susan and Simon, became good friends of mine. Susan and Simon used to own Palace Garden in Chinatown, Newcastle, so they’ve got tons of experience. I’ve got great memories of joining them for dim sum lunches on a Sunday. I’d be the only non-Chinese speaker at the table, but somehow, through the language of food, I just got it. I really took a liking for the culture and how it’s all about sharing food. During lockdown, Will was sharing some authentic Chinese recipes with me, which was wonderful. But the reason I’m so fond of the ginger and spring onion prawns dish is because in Chinese all food has a meaning - and prawns mean happiness. If you’re eating prawns on Chinese New Year, it means you’ll have a year of happiness and laughter. Keep an eye out for that recipe on my Instagram.

FOODIE HAPPENINGS >> We don’t know what restrictions are going to look like in early 2021, but fingers crossed food festivals will start to kick off again. The Big Feastival, which is a music/ food festival held on the August bank holiday each year, is in the diary. We’ve also got Taste of London - so fingers crossed all of these fantastic events go ahead this year, as it’s a great way to get out, interact with fellow foodies and check out what’s going on in the industry. This year, I’m looking to try and develop a ‘North East Food Festival’ - if anyone reading has any recommendations, please do send me a message on Instagram, it would be great to hear from you.

ASK CHRIS >> If you’ve got any questions you want to ask Chris - whether it’s a recipe you’d like to see, information about his live cook-a-longs, or recommendations for restaurants in the North East or across the country - please get in touch via his Instagram page. Chris will select a handful of questions and answer them in the next column. #AskChris instagram.com/chrisbaber

TRY THIS >>

Squash curry (vegan) Ingredients 1 squash 2 onions, finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, grated 1 inch ginger, grated 1 chilli - seeds removed, finely chopped 1 tsp turmeric 1 /2 tsp cinnamon 1 /2 tsp chilli powder 2 tbsp garam masala 1 tbsp tomato purée 1 tin coconut milk 150ml water 1 tbsp honey 2 handfuls spinach Fresh mint/coriander to serve 1 lemon or lime

Serves 4 Method Preheat the oven 200°C. Peel the squash. Cut half of it into 2cm chunks and finely chop the other half (you could blitz in a food processor or grate). Put the chunks of squash onto a tray, drizzle with oil. Season with salt and 1 tbsp of the garam masala, roast for 30 minutes or until caramelised. Meanwhile, heat 1 tbsp oil in a saucepan or large frying pan, fry the onions with a good pinch of salt for 10 minutes until golden, add the remaining squash, garlic, ginger and chilli, fry for 3 minutes then stir in the spices and tomato purée. Cook for 1 minute. Add the coconut milk and water. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until thick, then stir in the honey and juice of half a lemon or lime - adjust seasoning to taste. Stir in the roast squash. Serve.

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COLOURFUL BEGINNINGS

Savouring the seasons WITH KAREN PHILLIPS JOBS IN THE GARDEN >> Prune apples, pears and vines - if you don’t know where to start, then join us on a half-day pruning course (when time allows). Do not prune stone fruits (cherries, plums, greengages or damsons) as 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

Inject some welcome colour into 2021. Seville oranges arrive in the shops towards the end of January, so let’s get a much-needed boost of vitamin C and create some citrus scents in the kitchen with a bubbling pot of marmalade.

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. While money is withdrawn (harvested) on a drip, drip basis, over time the account will become empty and fail to support you.

expense. All you need is a preserving pan, a long wooden spoon, Seville oranges, a lemon and a lot of granulated sugar. People are always astounded at how much sugar goes into marmalade and yet you still end up with quite a bitter preserve - it does rather moderate your intake. We teach a lot of preserve making courses here at Linnels Farm and the holy grail of preserving is ‘testing for a set’. With jam you can go past the setting point and just end up with a very solid preserve that will need levering out the jar, but with marmalade, once you go past setting point the marmalade will never set.

Marvellous marmalade muffins

Certain things make me blue in January: short days with low light levels and muddy dog paws in the house, but other things make me smile: the witchhazel that flowers on one of the shortest days in mid-January with its sulphur yellow blooms like exploding fireworks and each with a bewitching citrus scent. A small twig in a bud vase on the bedside table lifts spirits for the start of the day and, when it flowers, it is a timely reminder to hot foot it to the greengrocers and see Roddy at ‘Stobos’ in Corbridge to order my three boxes of Seville oranges to make the Linnels Farm marmalades for the year.

Making marmalade on a wet and miserable January day is a pure joy and you often end up with a ‘Jo Malone’ scented kitchen without the vast expense of a candle, plus a cupboard full of bright orange jars for little

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These muffins are oh-so simple - literally mix all of the ingredients together and bake for 20 minutes then eat warm for breakfast. This recipe makes 12 muffins so you’ll need a 12-hole muffin tin and cases. The muffins can be frozen, but make sure you warm through before serving.

If you fancy making your year’s supply of marmalade with us and perhaps entering it into The Dalemain Marmalade Awards, we’ll teach you how to make a marmalade that will win prizes. This is the second year that we are a drop off point for entries into the competition. Drop-off your jars between 30 January and 5 February and we’ll get them safely over to Dalemain in Cumbria in time for judging. Who knows - your marmalade may win top prize and get made and sold by Fortnum and Mason!

Ingredients 2 eggs, beaten 90ml sunflower oil 150ml milk 230g plain flour, sifted 1 tbsp baking powder 1 /2 tsp sea salt 50g caster sugar 1 /2 jar homemade marmalade

RICH PICKINGS FROM THE GARDEN >> Pickings are few and far between at this time of year so it’s time to supplement them with a host of preserves made from last year’s harvest: beetroot relish with smoked fish, plum and chilli jelly with sausage and mash, and for pudding, greengage torte with custard. Kale can be decorative in the veg plot with both red and green varieties. We concentrate on growing ‘Sutherland Kale’ from the Highlands of Scotland -

Makes 12

Method Preheat the oven to 200°C and line your muffin win with muffin cases. Whisk eggs, sunflower oil and milk together in a bowl. In a separate bowl sift the flour and the baking powder and stir in the sugar with a wooden spoon. Make a well in the centre and pour in the liquid mix. Mix gently but thoroughly. Do not beat too vigorously. Spoon half of the mixture into the muffin cases. Place a heaped teaspoon of marmalade into each case and then thoroughly cover it with muffin mixture. Bake for 20 minutes then remove to cool on a wire rack. Contain your impatience for at least 10 minutes before eating.

we think it feels like it’s on a summer holiday when it grows in the veg plot down here! Leeks are like green soldiers standing to attention in the veg plot. They look truly beautiful when a slanting shaft of sunlight in January hits the glaucous green stems. There is little food more comforting than a bowl of steaming leek and potato soup. linnelsfarm.com

JAN/FEB21

LUXE PEOPLE What is your greatest fear? Sharks, especially great whites. I did try to conquer this fear once when I lived in Australia. I persuaded some friends of mine to drive seven hours from Adelaide to Port Lincoln to go shark cage diving. However, to their disappointment and my relief, all we saw were seagulls that day! Which living person do you admire most and why? Sir David Attenborough. Not only was he one of the pioneers of television, pretty much inventing the nature documentary format which remained a key reason why – in 2008 I travelled to volunteer in South Africa on a wildlife reserve – he is also apparently the most travelled person in human history, which likewise remained a central reason for my desire to travel around the world. His work has helped educate generations and instil a passion for conservation and climate change, whilst remaining a true national treasure.

THE LUXE LOWDOWN:

PETER BELL Peter Bell lives in Tynemouth with his wife Sophie, baby Albie and their two Labradors Archie and Ruby. He swapped finance for fiction, moving from the corporate world to writing children’s stories. Taking inspiration from his own experiences, his work focuses on mental health and wellbeing. Elysia Fryer gets the lowdown…

GETTING TO KNOW YOU >> Name: Peter Bell Title: Children’s Author Where is home? Tynemouth Three reasons you love where you live? The lovely people, beautiful beaches and the amazing food and drink. THE DAY JOB >> What do you do for a living? I am a children’s author. Prior to that, I operated internationally in the fields of corporate finance and advisory, so it’s a massive career change, but I’m loving every minute of it. A day in the life of you? Currently, it’s very much surrounding baby Albie, who was born in April 2020. Aside from Albie, my day typically revolves around writing, editing, book promotions, Zoom calls and walking our two Labradors, Archie and Ruby.

JAN/FEB21

Any ongoing or upcoming projects we should know about? Due to the ongoing success of ‘Bob’, which is available in Waterstones, Amazon, Barnes and Nobel, as well as all good bookshops, I have just submitted the manuscript for my next book entitled ‘Molly And The Lighthouse.’ A loveable tale centering around the relationship between Molly and her grandfather, Lance. On top of that, I have also just partnered with the International Family Nursing Association (IFNA) representing members across 28 countries; whereby in addition to enhancing the reach and promotion of ‘Bob’, I am scheduled in to do some work with them on mental health awareness and guest speaking at their upcoming international conference. What does downtime mean to you? Having suffered from mental illness - notably depression and anxiety - downtime is critical to help me maintain a healthy mind and lifestyle. The ways I like to relax are centred around my family and friends. I love enjoying the great outdoors and walking the dogs, I enjoy going to the gym - and much of my free time is spent with my wife Sophie as we remain besotted by Albie’s charms. So much of our downtime is spent together as a family and, where

possible, (due to COVID and the current state of affairs) with our parents and friends. LESSONS IN LIFE >> What did you want to be when you were growing up? A footballer or wildlife photographer. What is the most important lesson life has taught you? Life is a journey and is also somewhat ironic. It takes sadness to know real happiness, noise to appreciate silence and absence to value presence.

LIVING LUXE >> What is top of your bucket list? To travel to Antarctica. What is your most treasured possession? Family photos. What does the weekend mean to you? Relaxation and time spent with family and friends. A memorable holiday? Time spent travelling to the Galapagos Islands, trekking to Machu Picchu or our honeymoon to the Gili Islands. Best dress? I’m inspired by the work of Simon Whitaker of Master Debonair over in East Boldon. And of course, the suave Ryan Reynolds. Both exemplify style. Who would be your top three dinner guests? Sir David Attenborough, Dave Grohl and Barack Obama. The last place you ate? Probably one of the following: Northern Rye, The Kiln, The Wheel House, Sugar and Slice or Bistro du Parc. The region has a thriving food culture and we are regulars to those listed. The last book you read? The Midnight Library by Matt Haig. The last thing you listened to? The House of Rugby podcast. The last thing you watched? Series: Stranger Things TV: Top Gear Movie: The Gentlemen Three luxe things in life? You can’t go far wrong in life with a good watch, a good pair of shoes and a good book.

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LOVE WINS

REAL WEDDING:

Happily ever after

Patience and positivity was key to ensuring Catherine and David got their dream wedding during the pandemic. The result - a drop-dead-gorgeous day filled with love, laughter and lots of cake! Photographs by: Carla Whittingham, carlawhittingham.co.uk THE COUPLE >> A perfect modern fairytale brought Catherine (34) and David (41) together. The pair met through an online dating site in 2017, hit it off and set up home together in Leeds. Catherine works in HR, specialising in diversity and inclusion, and David works in IT project management. David popped the question during a romantic getaway to the Amalfi Coast in June 2019. The sun was shining and the couple had just enjoyed a delicious lunch at Chez Black in Positano. A short stroll along ‘Lover’s Lane’ took them to a cliff edge where David dropped to one knee with the sea and harbour in the background. Stunning. THE VENUE >> The couple tied the knot at Thicket Priory in York, a truly magical venue that oozes charm and character in every nook and cranny. Catherine and David were in search of a venue that made guests feel relaxed, but with a little bit of luxury thrown in for good measure. A place where they could be themselves, but be transported to somewhere truly special at the same time. Lots of fresh greenery and white flowers ensured that the day was classy and elegant. The simple colour palette of dark navy and light grey complemented the theme.

THE BRIDE WORE >> A beautiful Enzoani gown with bespoke alterations by Scarlet Poppy Bridal Boutique. Catherine completed the look with Rainbow Club shoes and Swarovski jewels. THE GROOM WORE >> David and his groomsmen were suited and booted in M&S suits and Joseph Cheaney & Sons shoes. They accessorised with Swagger and Swoon bow ties and pocket squares and David finished the look with an inherited pocket watch and cufflinks. THE CAKE >> Lisha at LS Cakery was the brains behind the sweet creation. Three delicious tiers of vanilla, lemon and red velvet. Decorated with fresh flowers and topped with a silver vase that was gifted from Catherine’s parents, who also used it on their own wedding cake. A lovely touch. SPECIAL DETAILS >> Fleur Adamo Floral Design helped the couple to make all of their bloom dreams come true. Having had to pivot from peonies and panda anemones to white roses and fresh greenery after moving the original date due to the pandemic, the couple were delighted with their floral arrangements. Personal details included a pin gifted by Catherine’s late grandma and cufflinks and

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JAN/FEB21

LOVE WINS

a pocket watch that belonged to each of David’s grandfathers. Catering was supplied by Baba Ganoush Catering, live music by Electric Idols got the party underway, and as big quiz-lovers, the couple’s fathers hosted games and quizzes to add to the entertainment. Catherine added a funky edge to her traditional bridal look with a custom-painted leather jacket by The Mermaid Effect. A show stopping moment was the couple’s first dance, which took place on the breathtakingly beautiful bandstand as the sun was setting over the horizon. Complete with smiles and sparklers, it was just perfect. HOW YOU HAD TO PIVOT IN THE PANDEMIC >> Catherine and David’s original date was set for May 2020, however the couple had to adapt to Government guidelines. On 14 October, they were finally able to tie the knot and start the rest of their lives as Mr and Mrs. A rollercoaster wedding planning experience full of twists and turns turned out to be the dream day for all involved. TOP TIPS >> “We found that we were still able to keep most aspects of our day as we had originally planned and were able to work with all our suppliers to ensure that we were still following the rules and keeping everyone safe. “The main impact was having to reduce our guest list, which was difficult but we were able to incorporate friends and family over Zoom and we are hoping to have a party in the future. In many ways we both felt like it turned out even better than we had imagined, we got to spend more time with the guests who were able to be with us >>

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LOVE WINS

and, importantly, we got to spend more time with each other. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We got to get married and that is the main thing, and everyone made so much effort to ensure it was all perfect. You just have to embrace it, we tried to do that by making it a part of the day with wedding favour face masks, personalised hand sanitiser and creative signs reminding guests to socially distance.â&#x20AC;? THE HONEYMOON >> The pair had originally planned a threeweek break touring Japan, but plans have been put on hold due to the pandemic. Instead, the happy couple enjoyed a week in St Ives, Cornwall. The perfect place to relax, unwind and share precious moments. THE PHOTOGRAPHER >> The lovely Carla Whittingham captured the day perfectly. An incredibly talented photographer who was able to instantly put Catherine and David at ease. Effortless, elegant and exquisite work. SUPPLIERS >> Venue: Thicket Priory Photographer: Carla Whittingham Videographer: Hello There Films Hair: Boutique Wedding Hair Makeup: Emily Franks Catering: Baba Ganoush Catering Florist: Fleur Adamo Floral Design Cake & favours: LS Cakery Entertainment: Electric Idols Dress: Scarlet Poppy Bridal Boutique

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LUXE LOVES

Happy campers Drive up the ultimate adventure with Yorkshire Vehicle Hireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Defender Camping motors. Rev it up, hit the road and let these wild and wonderful vehicles lead the way on your next super staycation. yorkshirevehiclehire.co.uk

IMAGE CREDIT: @wearecreativemachine

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21 CHASING WANDERLUST

travel ideas for 2021

There’s a whole world of adventures out there - go and explore it. Luxe rounds up 21 on-trend travel ideas for the new year...

CROATIA >> Lopud Dating back to the Renaissance period, Lopud Island is the second largest of the Elaphiti Islands. Expect to see old villas, charming chapels and ancient farmhouses hidden in the hills behind the Monastery. The island’s natural beauty is preserved, with the addition of lush vegetation, exquisite suites, bespoke designs and the most spectacular sea views. lopud1483.com

ICELAND >>

The Retreat Hotel, Blue Lagoon Unwind the clock of modern life and unlock the door to a wonder of the world. The Retreat Hotel, Blue Lagoon, Iceland is like nowhere else on earth. Go here for the ultimate Icelandic getaway, where stylish, contemporary design meets the breathtaking natural beauty of the scenery that surrounds you. bluelagoon.com

Buxton Crescent Hotel & Spa, Peak District

THE UK >> Buxton Crescent Hotel & Spa, Peak District A luxe escape nestled in the rolling hills of the Peak District. Guests can experience the therapeutic qualities of Buxton water, at the forefront of the spa offering. The spa hotel is home to three pools - the thermal pool, which is a fully refurbished Victorian pool boasting the unique feature of having Buxton mineral rich water flowing into it, a relaxation pool and an impressive indoor-outdoor rooftop pool. Following a multi-million pound renovation, Buxton Crescent blends outstanding 18th century features with stylish furnishings and modern comforts. ensanahotels.com/buxton/en 100 Princes Street, Edinburgh Summer 2021 will welcome a sparkling new Princes Street hotel with uninterrupted views of Edinburgh Castle. Expect individually-designed interiors, signature dishes and generous hospitality. If it’s not the lovely people and lush designs that blow you away, it’s the location that will. redcarnationhotels.com/our-hotels/scotland/100-princesstreet

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PORTUGAL >> The Newt in Somerset

The Newt in Somerset The Newt is certainly worth a trip to the stunning South West. Set to open in spring 2021, The Farmyard is the estate’s newest addition - offering a secluded hideaway in a cosy corner, accessed through traditional cider orchards. Complete with an indoor swimming pool, bar, games room and an authentic restaurant, it’s an effortlessly stylish place to switch off and indulge in food and wellness. thenewtinsomerset.com

Anantara, Vilamoura A sky-high spa, fine dining opportunities and a picture-postcard pool area all add to the beauty at Anantara’s Vilamoura resort. Anantara whisks you away to another world - a world where the woes and worries of everyday drift away and you’re left with fine food, an indulgent spa, glorious golf and everything you’d wish for when it comes to escaping in pure luxury. anantara.com/en/vilamoura-algarve

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CHASING WANDERLUST

Islas Secas, Panama

THE AMERICAS >> OKU, Ibiza

THE BALEARIC ISLANDS >> Can Ferrereta, Mallorca OKU, Ibiza If a return to the White Isle is on the cards this year, make sure you check out OKU, launching in May 2021. Home to one of the largest pools on the island and a short walk to the beautiful Cala Gracio bay, this newbie is inspired by nature and barefoot living. Its laid-back design and slow pace of life makes it the ultimate Balearic getaway with sustainability at its heart. okuhotels.com

AKA, New York AKA offers luxurious apartment-style accommodation across the Big Apple - from the very heart of Times Square and Central Park, to Sutton Place, United Nations and Tribeca. Think swish, city-centre pads in the liveliest neighbourhoods, boasting all the high-tech treats you’d expect from a Bond-like, sky-scraping crib. AKA’s luxury lodging is as easy-going or as accommodating as you wish. Stylish, self-catered studios that allow you to really make yourself at home in your bubble, but with the benefits of a hotel - if you’d like them. stayaka.com Islas Secas, Panama Buzzing cities, exotic wildlife, copious rainforests and idyllic islands, Panama has quietly been emerging as more than just a business hub in recent years. Islas Secas is a privately-owned archipelago of 14 beautiful islands in the Gulf of Chiriquí, one of the hottest destinations for 2021 bucket lists. islassecas.com

Six Senses, Ibiza The northern tip of the island is set to be home to Six Senses Ibiza, a villa-like, family-friendly hideaway that captures the authentic essence of the Med. Home to a one-of-a-kind spiritual learning centre with spa, fitness studio and nutrition specialists, this place puts the good in feel-good. sixsenses.com

Eden Rock, St Barths Covering just eight square miles, with year-round sunshine and unspoilt beaches, St Barths remains one of the world’s most sought-after and unique holiday destinations. It’s a real box-ticker for 2021 travel, with COVID-secure procedures in place to ensure it is a safe and relaxing place to enjoy with loved ones. This iconic Caribbean property has undergone a high-end renovation and has partnered with jet charter provider, Tradewind Aviation, to create a seamless end-to-end private travel experience from anywhere in the US to St Barths via San Juan. oetkercollection.com/hotels/eden-rock-st-barths Can Ferrereta, Mallorca Can Ferrereta is a brand-new boutique hotel set within a 17th century mansion in the quaint Mallorcan village of Santanyi. Home to one of the region’s most exciting collections of contemporary art, this hotel is perfect for culture-lovers seeking out a chic, away-from-it-all getaway. hotelcanferrereta.com

INDONESIA >>

SCANDINAVIA >> Hotel Union Øye Part of experiential travel company 62ºNORD, this hotel is located in Hjørundfjord, the most majestic and secluded fjord in all of Norway. With sheer mountainsides rising from the deep fjord, it is the perfect place for visitors looking to avoid the crowds and reconnect with nature. Guests will delight in being amongst such spectacular scenery and will be able to enjoy a range of hikes, bike rides, picnics and more in the surrounding mountains. 62.no/en

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Bawah Reserve, Anambas Islands Bawah Reserve, one of Indonesia’s most spectacular resorts, unveils a new and exclusive accommodation on Elang, a neighbouring and previously untouched island. Elang is an adults-only resort offering the ultimate private island experience, featuring six sustainably-minded cliffside lodges with private butler service, a balcony with sparkling ocean views and private paths leading to rocky coves. bawahreserve.com

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CHASING WANDERLUST

THE MIDDLE EAST >>

Six Senses, Shaharut This off-the-beaten-track destination is a must for 2021 travellers thanks to the arrival of the stunning Six Senses resort. Comprising 58 suites and villas built from local rocks and with furnishings sourced from local artisans, the hotel showcases its sustainability efforts and its dedication to local produce and ecosystems. Complete with a main restaurant, poolside bar and grill and a signature Six Senses Spa, this is the ultimate retreat for an indulgent 2021 getaway. sixsenses.com

FRANCE >> Babylonstoren

AFRICA >> whether it’s a guided walk with the farm’s horticulturists, or a tour of the wine cellar and olive press. babylonstoren.com

Xigera Safari Lodge, Botswana A luxe lodge with the wonders of the world at your fingertips. Make Xigera Safari Lodge your base for the ultimate Botswana adventure. The individually-designed, air-conditioned suites have been designed using the work of more than 80 artists, with every object or surface celebrating African craftsmanship at its very finest. Enjoy game drives, watersport experiences and colorful sundowners as the sun sinks into the horizon. xigera.com

Singita, Tanzania With a history of pioneering safari style, Singita unveils its latest innovation - a next generation tented safari experience. Set in a 350,000-acre concession in the Serengeti, the stripped back, game-changing new-look offers a modern interpretation of the tented safari experience, attracting constantly-on-call travellers who are seeking a return to the authentic, raw and immersive, without forfeiting creativity and ease. Added comforts include private meditation decks and secluded outdoor salas with shaded daybeds, offering a reimagined guest experience which places the emphasis on stillness and serenity. singita.com

Le Bristol, Paris Le Bristol Paris, an icon of timeless glamour in the heart of Paris, invites guests to discover a fabulous new chapter in a remarkable history. Bringing a contemporary vision to its rooms and suites with designs that embody discrete elegance, as well as a brand new look for the courtyard garden. Le Bristol’s star-studded cast of rooms and suites has been joined by a new member: the Lumière Suite. Existing signature suites that will also unveil a new look include the Paris Suite, Elysée Suite, the Panoramic Suite and the Honeymoon Suite. oetkercollection.com/hotels/le-bristol-paris

Babylonstoren Look to South Africa in 2021 for an extraordinary escape from the everyday. The design-led farm hotel, garden spa and farm-to-fork restaurants celebrate nature and slow living, with an incredible team of experts from gardeners and winemakers, to beekeepers and botanists. Babylonstoren is a playground just waiting to be explored, Bushmans Kloof Bushmans Kloof is the proud custodian of over 130 ancient rock art sites dating back 10,000 years, and as such, has been awarded a Grade One accreditation. At the property, there are treks into the mountains, waterfall hikes, heritage trails and stargazing aplenty. Unique venues are set up throughout the property, each thoughtfully designed in harmony with the natural attributes of the Cederberg Mountains. bushmanskloof.co.za

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Hotel du Cap-Eden Roc Opposite the grand gates of French Riviera icon Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, sits a historic villa which will be unveiled in May 2021, Villa Sainte-Anne. Built in the early 1900s as a private home, Hotel du Cap purchased the villa in 2019 and has spent nearly two years extensively refurbishing the property and gardens. Set apart from the main hotel grounds, Villa Sainte Anne will offer a secluded, ultra-private and glamorous retreat without compromising access to all hotel facilities. oetkercollection.com/hotels/hotel-du-cap-eden-roc

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TOP DOG

POSH POOCHES with Alfie, helped by Elysia Fryer

New year, new trails

Alfie loves:

Happy days

Feel-good kit for a happy, healthy pooch...

Our pooches may not be aware of the turn of the year and what it means for our diaries, to-do lists and regimes, but they’re certainly pleased to see us awake from the festive slumber and get routine-ready for what 2021 has in store. For Alfie, it’s about enjoying more family time as we’re forced to ease our way back into our way of life. It means endless strolls in the fields, plenty of time curled up in front of the TV and new scents to sniff out as the winter chill hits and the frost covers the garden. As we start to plan and pop our positive hats on for the year ahead, we’ve certainly got our paws crossed for more staycations, dog-friendly days out and tail-wagging fun with other furry friends. In the meantime, it’s about perfecting the poochy pampering regime with Alfie’s top picks for starting the year in the happiest and healthiest way possible. Plus, the region’s best-loved trails to add to our to-do list when the time is right, and a catch-up with Annie, the ‘friendship Labrador Retriever’ who has been a lovely companion to many during the tough times. Happy days ahead - we’re sure of it! Alfie, your Luxe pooch x

Luxe Pooch Q&A

Tail-wagging walks for 2021 with man’s best friend. Luckily, the North East is home to some of the most spectacular trails - something you simply cannot experience without your loyal companion by your side. Check out our bucket list hikes for when the good times roll back around...

MUTTS & HOUNDS >> M&H Dog Gift Hamper - Grooming, £57, muttsandhounds.co.uk

DYSON >> Dyson Groom Tool, £35, dyson.co.uk

Sycamore Gap, Hadrian’s Wall Sycamore Gap is one of the most photographed spots in the UK - a stroll here with your furry friend in tow is sure to up your Instagram likes. A breathtakingly beautiful sycamore tree stands alone in a dramatic dip next to Hadrian’s Wall. Along the way you’ll find Housesteads Roman Fort and plenty of striking scenery - the perfect day out for the whole family. Cawfield Quarry, Northumberland National Park Created in the Roman Empire, Hadrian’s Wall stretches over 80 miles, from South Shields all the way to Cumbria. Cawfield Quarry is just a small part of the Wall, and it’s the ideal spot for your pooch to have a paddle or a big drink during the ultimate country trail.

BE:LOVED >> Be:safe - First Aid Nose & Paw Balm, £8, podiumpetproducts.com BARBOUR >> Dog Outfitters Cologne, £13.95, barbour.com

Sutton Bank, North York Moors Sutton Bank sits at a height in the North York Moors National Park, where you and your pooch will feel like giants stood over the Vale of Mowbray and Garbutt Wood. The cliff was formed during the last ice age and left to form the last glacial lake - the Gormire Lake. A must-see landscape in 2021.

BE:LOVED >> Be:bugfree - Insect Repellent Pet Shampoo Bar, £5, podiumpetproducts.com

RUFF AND TUMBLE >> Country Collection Dog Drying Coat and Mitts, Coat: from £41.95,Mitts: £18.95, ruffandtumbledogcoats.com

Crimdon Dene Beach, Hartlepool How about a coastal walk? Secluded white sand beaches, sandy paws and a splash in the North Sea. It’s a four-legged friend’s dream day out. Walk for miles on South Beach and Park Beach. Get a hit of that fresh, salty air while your pooch stretches those legs on a huge stretch of sand.

she still loves a good run and isn’t above getting down and dirty in a muddy puddle.

Annie is a very special and loved family member. She is a 10-year-old Labrador Retriever with a fun, mischievous, and quite sassy nature - but above all, she is very loving. Registered with the charity WAG & Company in 2017, she is a visiting friendship dog, charity ambassador and is well-known for her love of carrots. Sadly, Annie had a nasty accident in 2018 when jumping over a wall in Saltwell Park with a hidden 9ft drop at the other side. Five operations, a new hip and a metal plate in her paw later - coupled with lots of love and attention she is able to resume her charity duties at South Chowdene Care Home. LUXE WALKS >> Because of her accident, Annie is mainly a fan of short walks. The designer booties she has to wear to protect her nails from snagging the pavement get plenty of compliments. Like any pooch though,

DOG’S BEST FRIEND >> As well as Marv the gregarious Hungarian, Annie also has a soft spot for Max the Cockapoo from Jesmond. As nothing is better than a bit of female company, Prudence and Delia, her Bernese Mountain dog besties, regularly come round for a girly catch-up.

POOCH’S PERFECT DAY OUT >> Visiting her friends at South Chowdene Care Home, where lots of snuggles, a good intake of carrots and a treat from the tea trolley are always guaranteed. Followed by a run along the sand, straight into the sea and an ice cream cone from Di Meos. DOGGY DOWNTIME >> Annie just loves to chill. Her favourite story must be Goldilocks and the Three Bears; she will try her luck with every bed in the house before she settles for the most comfortable one. HOUND HABITS >> Prior to Lockdown, Annie used to love visiting the tech crowd in ZeroLight’s office on the Quayside. However, with the advent of home working, Annie’s main job has been calling the residents at South Chowdene Care Home on Skype and bringing a bit of cheer. In downtime, she manages to squeeze in a game of ‘hide and seek’ with human

sisters Molly and Grace. On the romantic front, even though she is a mature lady, there is still a spark with Marv the Vizsla from next door who can often sneak in the occasional ‘fence kiss’. Finally, her party piece is chasing mum’s prosecco corks. PUPPY PAMPER >> Following Annie’s accident, her fitness levels need to be kept in top condition, so after a workout with North East Hydrotherapy & Animal Rehabilitation, Annie loves nothing more than a pamper massage followed by a chillout with her favourite soft pawsecco toy.

FONDEST DOGGY MEMORY >> Annie loves to do her bit for charity, she took part in a beautiful case study project at the request of a primary school in Jarrow, where the children and teachers visited a care home to understand how the elderly residents benefited from their visit. At the end of the project, the children decided that: ‘Helping one person might not change the world, however, it could change the world for one person’. PUPPY A-LISTER? Rebel Wilson.

For more info about the WAG & Company charity, visit: wagandcompany.co.uk

Don’t forget to get in touch and send in pics of your pooch for our next issue via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram… facebook.com/luxemag

JAN/FEB21

@theluxemagazine

theluxemagazine

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DAYS OUT

LIVING LOCAL:

Richmond

This beautiful Georgian market town is located in the heart of Swaledale, surrounded by lots of picturesque villages and great places to visit. Founded in 1071 the town developed around one of Britain’s oldest Norman stone fortresses, Richmond Castle. This lovely North Yorkshire town features one of the largest cobbled marketplaces in England, overlooked by lots of interesting Victorian and Georgian buildings. Richmond is the perfect place to visit for a fun-packed day out with its many walks, pubs, cafes and independent shops selling everything you could need from antiques to clothes, shops to musical instruments and all sorts of fabulous gifts.

WHERE TO VISIT >> Richmond Castle is well worth a visit with its breathtaking views of the Yorkshire Dales. It is one of the greatest Norman fortresses in Britain, in the safe hands of English Heritage. You can learn all about the castle’s past in the interactive exhibition before exploring the grounds and ruins, including the secluded Cockpit Garden. Entry is free for English Heritage members, £7.60 for adults, £4.60 for children and under 5s go free. At the time of Luxe going to print you needed to pre-book your visit to the Castle. Check the website for details. english-heritage.org.uk Kiplin Hall is a short drive from Richmond, and there’s no better time to visit than in February and March when thousands of snowdrops hug its paths. The picturesque grounds and hall boast 400 years worth of history. During the Victorian era snowdrops were most

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commonly seen in graveyards, so were associated with death. They became symbols of sympathy and consolation. It was considered bad luck to pick them and bring them indoors. Perhaps they are best enjoyed in their natural habitat, as showcased so delightfully at Kiplin. Head Gardener, Chris Baker explains, “Snowdrops grow from bulbs, so during the dark winter months they are already preparing underground to make their spring debut. We have some rare varieties at Kiplin including Galanthus plicatus 'Wendy's Gold'. The gardeners here, a large team of dedicated volunteers, have worked hard over the years, caring for the blubs and the soil.” You can bring a little bit of ‘hope’ home with you from Kiplin Hall for your own garden. Potted snowdrops will be for sale from the produce cart and gift shop during February and March, restrictions allowing. Kiplin boasts 90 acres of grounds, including woodland walks, lakeside paths taking in dramatic views of the house across the water. Wide open parkland is often dotted with grazing sheep under the canopies of historic trees, taking in vistas of the classic Yorkshire countryside retreat. Hand sanitiser stations, one-way routes and clear signage allow for social distancing with ease, creating a relaxing atmosphere to escape to. The Gardens and Tearoom plan to be open 10am – 5pm from Friday 5 February, with the hall open from Friday 5 March. During the spring months the award-winning Tea Room will be serving homemade soups, scones, sandwiches, and cakes. Entry to Kiplin Hall and Gardens is £12 for an adult, £10 concession and £6 for children, under 5s are free. Tickets are valid for 12 months during opening hours so visitors can return during the year and enjoy the changing of the seasons. kiplinhall.co.uk

WHERE TO SHOP >> There are plenty of unique shops in the town centre including York House with floor upon floor of little rooms selling everything, including the Belfast kitchen sink! You’ll find trinkets, furniture, jewellery, clothing, chimney flower pots, gargoyles, statues… There are lots of lovely coffee shops, tea rooms and delis, a gorgeous second hand women’s clothing shop – The Little Dress Shop – and art galleries including Mackenzie Thorpe and Lucy Pittaway. The Station, near the River Swale, is a hive of activity with community at its heart, offering a venue for classes, clubs, talks and tours. It’s also home to a number of artisan

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DAYS OUT shops, a restaurant, cinemas and a gallery space for exhibiting artists. Treat yourself to an Archer’s Jersey Ice Cream or some homemade chocolates from Kacao. There’s also a fabulous deli and award-winning bakery, The Angel’s Share. Richmond Brewing Company is also based at The Station where you can meet the brewer, take a tour and try their great-tasting beers. The Station Shop sells gorgeous gifts including sculpted pieces, ceramics, mugs, jewellery and soft furnishings, and handles sales from the exhibitions in the three gallery spaces.

STRETCH THOSE LEGS… Drummer Boy Walk Legend has it that towards the end of the 18th Century some soldiers discovered the entrance to a tunnel under the Keep of Richmond Castle. It was only small, so they chose one of the smaller regimental drummer boys to explore where it went. He was told to walk through the tunnel and beat his drum so the soldiers could follow him above ground to plot the route. As they neared Easby Wood, half a mile from the Abbey, the drumming stopped. No-one knows what happened to the boy, perhaps the tunnel collapsed? A large commemorative stone marks the spot which locally is called Drummer Boy Stone. This lovely 3-mile loop offers a scenic river walk, views of Richmond Castle and a visit to Easby Abbey, and takes you past the Drummer Boy Stone. Start at the Market Place and head downhill towards The Station, turning left onto Lombard’s Wynd after St Mary’s Church. Turn right at the end, signposted Easby Abbey. Follow this track and at the bottom of the hill you’ll find the Drummer Boy Stone. You can now either follow the path immediately next to the River Swale, or the higher one, to bring you to Easby Abbey which is well worth exploring. It is believed that the tunnel where the Drummer Boy met his fate, was constructed in medieval times as an escape route from the Abbey to the Castle, in case of attack from Scots who frequently raided the northern counties. Follow the road to the right, past the church and bear right along the river before crossing a long iron bridge. This is the old railway line which brings you back to The Station where you can explore the artisan shops or enjoy a meal in the restaurant. Head back towards the Market Place via Station Bridge and take a detour onto The Batts at the end of the bridge so you can wonder at Richmond Falls before heading back up Millgate into town.

LOCAL FOLK >>

WHERE TO EAT >> The Fleece, just a minute’s walk from the Market Place, offers delicious modern British cuisine in a relaxed setting. Very much led by the seasons, dishes on the lunchtime menu include smoked haddock fishcake with French beans, leeks, dill cream and soft poached egg (£14). Or for meat-lovers why not try Navarin of lamb, olive oil mash, carrots and toasted garlic sourdough (£15.50). The children’s menu includes homemade fish fingers, chips and beans and spaghetti bolognaise at £6 each. Their Sunday lunch is a real treat but it’s worth booking to avoid disappointment. Three courses for £29.50. thefleeceyorkshire.co.uk

Kerry Marie’s Bar & Bistro, on Rosemary Lane, is a vibrant, laid-back, restaurant offering a varied menu including excellent breakfast, lunch, dinner and fabulous specials. The highest quality ingredients are sourced from local suppliers including fresh seafood. Their glazed cod and prawn thermidor (£15.95) is delicious. They also do a great Chicken Parmo (£12.95) and offer a comprehensive choice of burgers. The children’s main courses are £4.95, which include ham, egg, peas and chips and macaroni cheese. kerrymariesbarandbistro.co.uk

Dennis and Elizabeth Graves live just outside Richmond and own Mocha, a popular café in the town which sells handmade chocolates and cakes, made on site, as well as ice cream, beer (chocolate beer!) and a fabulous range of fresh coffees and other hot drinks. They opened their dog-friendly coffee shop in 2013 and have become a firm favourite in the town for locals and visitors alike. Why do you love Richmond? We always dreamed of living in North Yorkshire and when we discovered Richmond we just fell in love with the town. It is such a stunning place to live with so much to offer. The locals have always been incredibly friendly and welcomed our new business, and us, with open arms. There is a cosmopolitan feel to the town with visitors almost all year around, visiting the cobbled streets and Market Place, the Castle, waterfalls, the Georgian Theatre, museums and many artisan shops – all surrounded by the most beautiful countryside. How have you coped during the pandemic? The pandemic brought great challenges for Mocha. We closed like most places at the end of March and concentrated on our website sales, and soon the orders started to come in. However, we felt our local customers who were stuck at home were missing out on their regular visits to the shop, so we set up a free local delivery service for our chocolates and coffee. This went down a storm - it was such a wonderful and rewarding time being able to keep in touch through the medium of chocolate! You’ve become heavily involved in the community in Richmond… We love to get involved in community work around the town – weeding and litter picking is one of the regular events we join in with, it’s great to meet up with friends every month, all of us working to make our bright star of a town shine just a little bit brighter. Dennis is chairman of the Christmas market committee of volunteers that has been running for over six years. The team run a one-day event with attractions such as Punch and Judy, live music and entertainment from local bands and armed forces demonstrations. There’s a market full of local artisan stalls and has been a great success, growing in size year by year. Where’s your favourite place to eat in the town? New Treasure Garden, a fabulous Cantonese. It’s the first restaurant we ever visited in Richmond before moving here and we can’t help but keep going back for their salt and chilli squid!

SOMEWHERE TO STAY >> If things have started to settle down by the time you visit Richmond and you’re looking for somewhere to lay your head, you’re spoilt for choice. Frenchgate Hotel is a special treat at the bottom of the pretty cobbled street, Frenchgate, with family rooms starting at £153 including breakfast, or you might prefer

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to have your own space in a lodge at Brompton Lakes, just a couple of miles outside of Richmond. This unique retreat has 21 self-catering luxury lodges set right next to the lakes with beautiful views and some with hot tubs. Prices from £499 for 3 nights, for up to 6 people. holidayathome.co.uk

Where’s your favourite walk? We don’t get the time for long walks but love to take our Old English Sheepdog, Harvey, around the Castle Walk. The path skirts the foot of the castle and reappears in the marketplace. The view of the Swale never looks the same twice, it’s really stunning. Your favourite shop? Hamiltons, a family run butchers with the best customer service and fantastic produce.

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BEST DRESSED

Look sharp Timeless tailoring paired with natural tones of beige and grey are at the forefront of Walton and Sutherland’s collection. This season takes a tonal approach to tailoring with simple silhouettes, earthy hues and designconsidered detailing Cotton Blend Weather Tech Sartorial Coat in Black, £450 Wool Flannel Trousers in Mid Grey, £220 White Pima Cotton Polo, £70

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BEST DRESSED

Cinnamon Speckled Brushed Wool/ Cashmere Coat with Subtle Grey Windowpane Check, Â£675

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BEST DRESSED

Half Canvas Two-piece Suit in Stone Grey Virgin Wool, Â£775 waltonsutherland.com

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LUXE PEOPLE

THE LUXE LOWDOWN:

DAVID JONES

David Jones is the face of Sky Sports Premier League. He features on our televisions most weekends from the studio or pitchside, and his hometown is a little closer to home than we thought. As a Non-Executive Director at Sunderland AFC and a fellow Stokesley School pupil, he jumps at the chance to talk all things North East. Elysia Fryer gets the lowdown…

GETTING TO KNOW YOU >> Name: David Jones Title: Premier League Presenter for Sky Sports - Super Sunday and Monday Night Football. Non-Executive Director of Sunderland AFC Where is home? I live in South West London with my partner Julie, son Oskar (9) and Beagle Rocco. Three reasons you love where you live? We are only 20 minutes from the centre of London and all it has to offer, but we are also surrounded by the green spaces of Clapham Common, Tooting Common and Wandsworth Common. Plus, Dulwich Park and Wimbledon Common are only a short drive away. Balham has a real village feel to it, so we’ve definitely got the best of both worlds. THE DAY JOB >> What do you do for a living? I present Sky Sports Premier League coverage and this is my fifth season presenting the Super Sunday and Monday Night Football shows. A day in the life of you? The day always starts at around 7am with Oskar. Later on, I might be out walking the dog, meeting friends for coffee, a beer or a glass of wine, playing golf or heading into town for dinner. When I’m not working I try to see as much of my son as I can. We always try and eat together and find some time in the evening to relax with some TV or a good book. If I’m working, I am likely to be buried in notes, prepping for my shows, or on a train to Manchester where I spend a lot of time on location, or to Sunderland when I get the chance.

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Any ongoing or upcoming projects we should know about? The lockdowns haven’t really affected me too much when it comes to work as football has continued. I realise how lucky I am in that sense. What does downtime mean to you? Getting outside and breathing in some fresh air. I exercise as much as possible, be it walking, jogging, golf or on the peloton. I find it all very good for my mental health as well as my physical health. I also get a lot of joy from reading, but in my normal working week, I find it hard to give myself that time to switch off completely. LESSONS IN LIFE >> What did you want to be when you were growing up? I probably saw the job I’m doing now as my dream job. From a young age I was smart enough to work out that I wasn’t going to make it as a professional sportsman, which was my first plan, but I’ve managed to carve a career in sport, which has been really rewarding for me. What is the most important lesson life has taught you? You get out of life what you are prepared to put into it. I try to drill into my son that nothing in life will come to him on a plate, you have to work for your opportunities. What is your greatest fear? Death. Next question. Seriously though, we only get one crack at this, so I try not to waste a single minute.

What is your most treasured possession? I couldn’t cope without my AirPods for phone calls, which make the many long journeys to Sunderland more bearable. I’m not one for fancy cars, but I do have some nice bottles of wine in hiding. What does the weekend mean to you? During the season, coaching my son’s U10 team, watching Sunderland, then often saying goodbye to the family and jumping on a train to Manchester. Out of season, papers, coffee, exercise and fresh air with the family. Oh, and big dinners with friends, and loads of wine! A memorable holiday? Too many to mention. I’m a huge believer in big holidays. Last January, we took advantage of a weekend off (for the FA Cup) to have 10 days in Sri Lanka. Amazing beaches, fantastic food, loads of interesting wildlife and incredible weather. Who would be your top three dinner guests? Barack Obama, Tony Blair and Prince Harry - and tell them all that

whatever they said would stay in the room. That would be some seriously good gossip! The last place you ate? We took some friends to The Arts Club in Mayfair for a birthday dinner. The last book you read? I’ve just finished Such A Fun Age by Riley Reid, which I loved. It’s a whip-smart novel that tackles themes of race and privilege in the US. I also enjoyed American Dirt by Jeanine Cummings, which is a very readable but harrowing tale about escaping a Mexican cartel. The last thing you listened to? I listen to loads of football podcasts, but this morning I’m listening to the Hamilton soundtrack - it was also the last play I saw at the theatre. The last thing you watched? We are really enjoying The Undoing on Sky at the moment, but it’s still not quite on the same level as Succession, which I thought was just brilliant. Three luxe things in life? Family dog walks, steak on the BBQ and a bottle of Bordeaux.

LIVING LUXE >> What is top of your bucket list? I would love to play golf at Augusta and Pebble Beach - or just go to the Masters, please.

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TREND SETTER

A touch of luxe Time to bring a little bit of luxe to your home interiors thanks to a new, Alnwick-based business. Born out of a love of upcycling furniture and stylish detailing, April Bowden’s creative vision came to life during the pandemic, and we’re ever-so grateful for it...

I wanted to put my own stamp on my furniture, that’s when I had the idea of buying little home accessories and breathing new life into mainstream pieces - lovely stuff that adds a bit of personality

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LUXE: What can you tell us about your route into the creative world? APRIL: I studied Fashion Communication at Northumbria University - gosh, quite a few years ago now! - I always wanted to get into fashion buying, I worked in Fenwick for a couple of years, and then I left to work in PR and marketing. At the age of 24, I was noticing the rise in social media and decided to take the plunge and set up my own business. Play The Field was launched about seven years ago and offers social media support to small businesses on a local and national level. Within the first month I had seven clients and the business started to flourish. LUXE: What can you tell us about Home Luxe Co? APRIL: While I was growing my business, Play The Field, I bought my first flat - and like most 20-something-year-olds - the first thing I did was buy IKEA furniture.

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TREND SETTER spare room, then moved to the garage. As the business grew - and my neighbours started to think I had a serious shopping addiction - I secured a unit just outside of Alnwick. As we continue to grow, we’ve got plans to move to a 700 sqft unit with capacity to grow and employ. It’s all gone a bit crackers, but it’s great. I’m enjoying it! My mum is my sidekick at the moment. She had a B&B in Alnwick, so when the pandemic hit and business came to a halt for her, I brought her in to help out with orders. Going forward, we will employ people as we continue to grow. It’s a very exciting time and I’m looking forward to sharing our brand and values with others in the local area. LUXE: Was it important for you to launch your businesses at home in Northumberland? APRIL: I was born and bred in Alnwick, so to be able to offer a service and give something back to the local community is just wonderful. There’s something incredibly special about our mentality here in the North East. It’s unique, that’s for sure. The pandemic has been a real learning curve for us all reminding us how important it is to support local. I read something a couple of years ago that said, ‘When you buy from a small business, someone does a little happy dance’, and it’s so true. It makes you feel good - it makes you feel like you’re doing something right. We have a lot of really inspiring entrepreneurs in the region and the fact that people are willing to offer advice and work together is fantastic.

I thought to myself, ‘I want to do something a little bit different with my space’. I wanted to put my own stamp on my furniture, that’s when I had the idea of buying little home accessories and breathing new life into mainstream pieces - lovely stuff that adds a bit of personality. For me, my love for fashion quickly transformed into home style, and instead of spending money on clothes for myself, I was investing in decor for my home. I aspired to have a fashion brand when I was younger, and that’s what I went on to do at university, but I quickly realised that I really enjoyed interior design - I loved the different trends, the colours and the accents. I had the idea to create Home Luxe Co just before the first lockdown. It’s all about selling small trinkets to help make a house a home. I bought some stock and it started to sell really well, and we’ve just grown organically from there. LUXE: Have you always had a creative itch? APRIL: I’ve always been quite a creative person. With Home Luxe Co, I get to put a lot of different hats on. From building the website and developing the branding, to buying the products and looking after the social channels, there’s a lot to manage, but when it’s something you’re passionate about, it doesn’t really feel like work. LUXE: How has the business grown in recent months? APRIL: I built quite a nice following on Instagram to begin with. Working in social media, I knew how to do that quite quickly and effectively. I started working from my

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Interior trends for 2021 FLORAL FANCY >> Bring the outside in with dried flowers. Each season comes with a different variation.

MODERN COUNTRY >> A strong trend for 2021 - mix florals or bold and bright colours that have a contemporary take on a traditional design.

CRAFTY TRINKETS >> Don’t change your staple pieces of furniture if you can get away with it. Instead, invest in good quality knobs and handles to offer something truly unique.

I think, like many, the lockdown made me a bit more grateful of where I live. I love to get out and about for walks on the beach, or get lost in the countryside on a weekend. Gosh, I feel like an old woman, but I think this time has been really unique in that it has stripped things back to basics and we’re all much more aware of the beauty that surrounds us - particularly up here in beautiful Northumberland. We are also incredibly lucky when it comes to restaurants. My local favourites include The Northumberland Arms in Felton or Sea & Soil in Amble. LUXE: What’s in the pipeline for 2021? APRIL: We’re about to sign a contract to double our space in Alnwick - which is great as it allows us to continue developing and growing. We’re also looking at designing our own product range, which is super exciting. Oh, and we’re joining Wayfair so you’ll be able to find some of our products on there. I’m delighted about that - it just gives us that little bit more exposure in the marketplace. LUXE: And finally, what are you three luxe things in life? APRIL: My fiancé Danny, who encourages me to develop the business but reigns me in if I get too carried away with it; living in the North East - escaping to the coast and countryside has really been a saviour in recent months; and a good strong coffee, although however much I crave a cup, I never finish one. homeluxeco.com

Complete design, supply and installation of the highest quality, customised wood burning stoves and inserts. Most fires are also available for gas. We stock: • Wood burning and gas stoves from luxury Scandinavian brand Rais.Multi-fuel • Gas and electric stoves from the UK's largest stove and fireplace supplier Gazco and Stovax • A selection of high-end outdoor heaters and BBQs

Showroom opening times: Tuesday to Friday 9am-5pm Saturday 10am-1pm

GO NATURAL >> Add natural textures like rattan and jute - pair them with earthy shades like terracotta, sand and beige to create a calming environment.

MIX IT UP >> Get creative with mismatched jugs, vases and planters and fill with greenery to create a unique look to adorn any fireplace, cupboard or kitchen bench.

50A Racecourse Road Gallowfields Trading Estate Richmond North Yorkshire DL10 4TG T: 01748 517171 E: castleviewfireplaces@gmail.com W: www.castleviewfireplaces.com

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LUXE HOMES

HOT PROPERTY Our Luxe interior design guru, Kerry Lockwood, turns a tired Northumberland cottage into a contemporary country retreat THE LOWDOWN >> Set in Hartford Road East in Bedlington, this an unlisted property which was built in the 1880s and used as a coach house offering stables and lodgings for carriages passing through. Later in life, the owners included a livestock trader who reared various small animals behind the property and kept stables for a range of horses for private use. Following this, the property lay empty for several years after the passing of the owner until planning permission was finally granted to Sendrig Construction Ltd in 2016.

The rear area, which previously housed the stables, was redeveloped to a new estate on behalf of Bernicia Homes, with the cottage being the last piece of the jigsaw following completion of the estate.

THE TRANSFORMATION >> Sendrig Construction renovated the cottage into a three-bedroom property with an extension on the rear and bi-fold doors to create a beautiful open-plan living space.

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They enlisted the help of Kerry Lockwood to design the interior and bring the space to life in order to prepare the cottage for sale. Kerryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vision was to stay in-keeping with the traditional style of the cottage, whilst injecting a modern twist to create a beautiful but practical family living space. Kerry has gone for a traditional, shaker-style kitchen with modern touches to bring the space up-to-date, including brass fittings and a luxe, quartz worktop. To ensure the downstairs flows effortlessly from room to room, the same flooring has been laid throughout - a dark, engineered oak to add warmth to the large, open space. Beautiful, wooden shutters have been installed in the living room to tie in with the contemporary style, whilst maintaining

with the propertyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s traditional, country charm from the outside. A log burning stove has also been fitted, complete with a slate hearth and oak mantle from Woodland Stove Centre, Rothbury. Fitted wardrobes from West End Cabinets have been added to the bedrooms, adding plenty of essential storage space for a growing family. One of the biggest challenges came with the bathroom transformation because of the size and design, hidden under the eaves. Traditional and contemporary style has once again been mastered with metro tiles on the walls and a large charcoal floor tile. The master bedroom boasts a modern ensuite with a Jack and Jill bathroom to the other two bedrooms.

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LUXE HOMES

THE RESULT >> Furniture and soft furnishings give the cottage an instant lift - creating a warm and welcoming space. The open-plan aspect gives the cottage a beautiful, all-encompassing feel as you walk in, but remains quaint and cosy. The bi-fold doors and additional Velux roof windows allow for natural daylight to flood through the house. A neutral scheme has been incorporated throughout the house, with pops of colour to inject a bit of fun into the space including a dark green corner sofa from Wayfair in the lounge and a deep navy island unit in the kitchen. In order to maintain the unique character in such a property when it has been newly-renovated, it’s important to feed a bit of character back into the space. Kerry added lots of interesting textures in the form of rugs, plants and raw materials like

space - the perfect place to retreat and unwind. Bedrooms are a great space to accessorise with the seasons - adding in a splash of colour in the form of throws, cushions and dressing table accessories such as books, vases and perfume bottles. The cottage is now available to buy through Sanderson Young.

ABOUT THE DESIGNER >>

the wooden shelves in the kitchen, rattan barstools and a jute runner. She also introduced some older furniture like the vintage bureau. The bedrooms offer up a neutral, calming

Kerry Lockwood is based in Northumberland and provides an interior design, interior styling and staging service across the North East. Kerry is obsessed with home decor. No corner is left untouched - it’s all about the detail. She will help you to create spaces that feel cosy, cool and lived in, while adding unique, personal touches to help create a home that you will never want to leave. Her style is all about moving away from comfort zones and

pushing the boundaries to take your space to the next level. You can find out more at: kerrylockwoodindetail.co.uk

Luxury 4 and 5 bedroom detached homes just outside of Ponteland Prices from £565,000

New incentives available in 2021

Medburn Homes are building 4 & 5 bedroom executive detached homes at their Medburn Park development in a quiet, rural location on the outskirts of Darras Hall close to Ponteland. With excellent amenities and schools close by, visit our show homes and find the perfect place to live. sales@medburnhomes.co.uk

Luxe Mag - Bubble.indd 5

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www.medburnhomes.co.uk

01661 826096

11/01/2021 19:45

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INTERIOR INSPO

SOFOLOGY >> Nest Chair & Nest Footstool in Lead Grey, £499, sofology.co.uk

The perfect pair CHALK PINK LINEN COMPANY >> Grey Linen Pillowcase, £16, chalkpinklinencompany.co.uk

Expect to see mustard tones and grey hues as Pantone’s Colour of the Year 2021 has been announced as a pairing of ‘Illuminating’ and ‘Ultimate Gray’. This coupling comes at a perfect time and couldn’t be more fitting in line with the current situation we find ourselves living in. ‘Illuminating’ is bold and bright, evoking a positive mindset and a lively future, and ‘Ultimate Gray’ brings a sense of calm and thoughtfulness, reflecting on the whirlwind that was 2020. We’ve rounded up some luxe furniture and home accessories to help bring elements of these trending colours into your home, without the burden of completely redecorating. And, more importantly, to add a hearty dose of happiness to your humble abode.

HEATING & PLUMBING LONDON >> Evening Tales Super Fluffy Pure New Wool Blanket in Yellow, £89, heating-and-plumbing.com

LIGHTS4FUN >> Set of 3 Distressed Grey TruGlow® Slim Pillar Candles, £19.99, lights4fun.co.uk PROCOOK >> Del Mar grey porcelain bowls, £32, procook.com

ANNABEL JAMES >> Echo Alarm Clock in Cheeky Yellow, £21.95, annabeljames.co.uk

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INTERIOR INSPO ATKIN AND THYME >> Astoria Armchair In Mustard Yellow Velvet, £399, atkinandthyme.co.uk ICONIC LIGHTS >> Barbo Light Wood Floor Lamp, £76, iconiclights.co.uk DESENIO >> Contemporary Yellow No2 Poster, £9.95, desenio.com

PEPPER SQ LTD >> Hugo 2 Seater Velvet Sofa in Yellow, £999, peppersq.com

CULT FURNITURE >> Square Geometric Print Cushion in Grey and Yellow, £33, cultfurniture.com

AUDENZA >> Yellow ‘Peace’ Candle Hand, £34.95, audenza.com

BOMBAY DUCK >> Teacup and Saucer Sunshine Yellow, £17.95, bombayduck.com SWEETPEA & WILLOW >> Gaby Chest Of Drawers in Grey, £990, sweetpeaandwillow.com

SNUG SOFA >> The Rebel 3 Seater Sofa in a Box in Mid Grey, £899, snugsofa.com

SWEETPEA & WILLOW >> Arlo Table Lamp, £85, sweetpeaandwillow.com

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START A FRESH

HOME WITH HEART with Kerry Lockwood, interior stylist, blogger and content creator It’s lush bedding, gorgeous greenery and DIY decorating for our savvy home stylist as we head into 2021...

Best buy Linen bedding from Piglet. I love treating myself to a new bedding set in winter. During the colder months there’s nothing like coming home from a busy day at work and jumping into a cosy bed. I already have a Piglet linen bundle which is super soft and washes great. So, I’m planning on purchasing their Luna Stripe set which is a pale cream colour with a delicate charcoal stripe. pigletinbed.com

My space Once we’ve taken the Christmas decorations down at the beginning of January, our homes can often be left feeling bare, like there’s something missing. It always takes me a couple of days to adapt but it’s a great time of year to move things around a little. Don’t put everything back the way it was before Christmas. It’s amazing how much better things look when you simply move them from one room to another. I’m also going to be bringing more greenery into my home as I think plants are a good way of adding personality to a space. Even the smallest of house plants like succulents can change the atmosphere of a room. I also spotted that The Plant Workshop have opened a new concession in the basement of Fenwick, Newcastle. They have a great selection of indoor plants. theplantworkshop.co.uk

Try this Zinsser All Coat paint. This stuff is magic! I’ve just used it to paint the rather dated brown PVC windows in my kitchen and I’m so impressed. I did lots of research first as I was a little nervous about painting them. It’s an all surface paint which can be used indoors and outdoors. It is scrubbable and selfpriming. See what I mean, pure magic! I ordered it from the Decorating Centre Online in Bishop Auckland as they will mix it in any colour. I’m super impressed at how it has transformed my PVC windows and door, the adhesion is brilliant, I’ve scratched it and rubbed over it with wire wool and it didn’t budge. It would be perfect for laminated or gloss kitchen cabinets. So, if you fancy any new year DIY, I can highly recommend using this. decoratingcentreonline.co.uk

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Question time

Q: What are your thoughts on having a rug in the kitchen? A: I know this is quite a controversial topic and that a lot of people shudder at the thought of having a rug in the kitchen with all the possible spillages, wine, grease etc., but I personally think if you choose the right one, they really to add texture and warmth to a kitchen. Plus, they’re great for cushioning underfoot in a space where you spend a lot of time on your feet. I would go for something more hardwearing and easier to clean like a jute or sisal rug. If you’d like me to answer your interior-related questions in the next issue, please post them on Instagram, make sure you tag me @kerrylockwood and use the hashtag #KerryxLuxemag You can read more about Kerry and her home at kerrylockwoodindetail.co.uk

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TOP TEACHER

Brick by brick Uber-cool teacher alert. Nicole Wood chats to Chris Wilde, Head of Digital Technology and Computer Science at the Royal Grammar School Newcastle, to discuss teaching methods, out-of-this-world creations and his latest LEGO Master Educator achievement

I’m spending a busy Wednesday morning at the home office drinking my fair share of tea before tuning into what turned out to be one of the most interesting conversations I’ve had. Reading up on Chris’s bio before the call, I knew he was going to be quite the character, but boy was I in for a treat. After the usual Zoom call introductions and interruptions from dogs - the joys of working from home - we dive straight into the all-important details of how he became a LEGO Master Educator. Growing up in the small mining village of Hetton-le-Hole, obtaining his PGCE qualification at Newcastle University to now working at the Royal Grammar School in Newcastle, Chris has kept his roots firmly in the North East. After graduating from

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university and working in the family restaurant, he quickly realised that he was yearning for something different. “I decided that I didn’t want to spend the rest of my life working on a Friday and Saturday evening,” explains Chris. “My partner at the time was currently doing a teaching course and I thought, ‘hold on, that would be good holidays and I’d get my weekends off!’ So, If I’m being honest, my initial decision was off the back of a pretty lazy idea, but as soon as I started my course at Newcastle University, I knew it was exactly what I was supposed to be doing,” he adds. After a couple of years teaching at Churchill Community College in Wallsend, Chris was approached by North Tyneside Council to become a school improvement advisor for new technologies before being presented with his most exciting venture to date.

“I was at a point in my career where things were getting a bit stale, I didn’t know how to progress and I didn’t really know what I wanted to do; then the position at RGS came up and when I realised it was to create a brand-new department within a prestigious school, I was honoured to be offered such an exciting opportunity. “I absolutely love working at RGS. The setting is just wonderful, as soon as you walk through the gates on a morning you can’t help but smile. “I’ve been on both sides of the education landscape. I initially worked in a state school and supported a local authority; I’ve worked in primary schools, middle schools and high schools. I’m extremely lucky to now be working at RGS, having the opportunity to mould these young people into excellent computer scientists. “The work we do in the department is to

develop the pupils as lifelong learners and help them cultivate their creativity.” Working as the Head of Digital Technology and Computer Science certainly comes with its rewards; and in Chris’s case, being recognised for outstanding work by LEGO is definitely an achievement that tops the list. “A couple of years ago I won a LEGO teacher award for some of the projects I was working on with pupils, namely a theme park using moving components. “LEGO took me out to Boston in the US to attend an international symposium at Tufts University. People from around the world who use LEGO in education were invited to the two days of seminars and professional development - it was great. “As part of our outreach programme at RGS, prior to COVID, we were running programmes from the department because we became a LEGO Education Innovation

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TOP TEACHER

Studio. We partnered with the Reece Foundation to develop STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics) projects across the region and then out of the blue I got an email from LEGO to say we’d like you to become a Master Educator for 2020. “I thought, ‘Wow okay, well what is that?’ I soon found out that it is global recognition that your approach to education is pretty cool. “In essence, what I’m doing with that is working within their online community and keeping in touch with other like-minded educators and offering advice and guidance around LEGO. Their overriding pedagogy is learning through play and that’s something we really want to promote within the department.” If being a LEGO award-winning teacher wasn’t cool enough, Chris has an array of impressive designs to showcase his talent as well as the work of his equally enthusiastic pupils. “We have a ton of LEGO models we’ve worked on, but my personal favourite has to be the DeLorean - the car from Back To The Future with Doc Brown and Marty McFly. It’s the best film ever, in my opinion, so to be able to build it with LEGO was just amazing. The kids build awesome things all of the time,” Chris smiles. “It’s a wonderful thing to be a part of, and they really enjoy it.” Chris believes that learning through play is the way forward. A teaching method he’s always used and one that appears to work ever so well in and out of the classroom. “If we are able to get the kids to learn without realising that they’re learning then you’re onto a winner - and that’s why the pedagogy of learning through play works so well. “Certain pupils learn better through concrete modelling, so you can stand and explain how this piece of code will make the motor turn faster and you can give demonstrations, but the best way to do it is to just get your hands in and have a play around with the materials. “It’s a theory I’ve believed in for a while and it just so happens that the guys at LEGO subscribe to the same trail of thought. “Because of the philosophy at RGS, we include a lot of game-based learning in our curriculum, so the pupils have built arcade machines and our year 12s are currently building a stripped-back version of the Gameboy.

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“We also develop pupils’ logical reasoning skills. For example, at the start of every lesson, the kids come in and do a puzzle this could be sudoku or a kakuro - all of these different Japanese puzzles help to develop a strong foundation in logical reasoning. We also enter into a variety of robotics competitions - it’s very busy, but our ever-growing department is great.” “There’s never a dull moment,” he adds. The creativity doesn’t stop there. Putting his teaching methods to good use, Chris actually hand-crafted the classroom he teaches in. “I spent around nine months prototyping furniture and gauging pupils' reactions. Once I was happy with the designs, in the last week of term, 80 sheets of plywood showed up and I spent the whole summer holidays working with the CNC machine, sanding them down and glueing them together. The result? Something truly bespoke. We still use our own skills whenever we require something new for the classroom. “Using computer code, we put the design files on the CNC machine and it drew all of the furniture out; and because we weren’t purchasing items from suppliers, the carbon footprint on the room is barely existent it’s super environmentally-friendly. “It also inspires what we do in the classroom. We run a module with the year 9s where the room is the inspiration and we talk to them about computer numerically controlled systems. We get the kids to build a CNC drawing machine out of LEGO so they’re able to input how to do a letter and it writes for them using a pen, so we take the drill out of the CNC machine, put a pen in and the kids are able to control that with the skills they’ve learnt. Everything flows into everything else we do - it works brilliantly.” 2020 was quite the rollercoaster. We witnessed the coronavirus pandemic draw a halt to many things - teaching face-to-face being one of them. Adapting to a new way of life was the case for many, but yes, you guessed it, Chris Wilde was ahead of us all. “Prior to lockdown, we’ve always done things paperless in our department. We never had exercise books, we used a system called Microsoft One Note which meant that the kids were used to doing their lessons on a computer. The main thing we found difficult at first was proceeding with group work. Because the kids weren’t in school during the first national lockdown, we had

to come up with innovative ways to do that. We had to change the projects slightly, so instead of controlling a robot in the classroom, we got them to control a robot turtle on the screen. Using the video chat feature within Microsoft Teams, the pupils were able to group up and work on the project together. “We had to flip from physical projects to virtual projects. The learning experience remained the same. We much prefer having the kids in the classroom, but we’ve actually found we can still deliver the curriculum we set out to and the only difference we really have is that we haven’t got to pick LEGO up off of the floor!” Doing good and sharing his extensive knowledge is at the top of Chris’s agenda. The headmaster at RGS has dedicated one morning per week to allow Chris and his department to develop the knowledge and skills of computer science in primary schools around the region. “I’m in a privileged position to be where I am currently,” says Chris.

“The RGS is renowned for being the best in the region and we don’t want to be insular about that, so since the department has developed, we do a lot of outreach. Every week we video link to a local primary school to deliver computer science workshops. If a member of staff isn’t particularly confident in delivering computer science then they can do one of our digital workshops and we can deliver that content.” Well after the final school bell rings and Chris packs up and heads for the gates, his dedication to helping people certainly doesn’t come to a halt. Teaming up with his partner at Foundation Futures, they work together on a fantastic project called Make Stuff - a group of creative makers, programmers, scientists and engineers who have set up a space to meet, work, socialise, share ideas and collaborate. It really is all go for Chris, but when you love your job as much as this teacher does, you never do a day’s work in your life. rgs.newcastle.sch.uk

I got an email from LEGO to say we’d like you to become a Master Educator for 2020. I soon found out that it is a global recognition that your approach to education is pretty cool

luxe-magazine.co.uk

TOP TERM PICKS

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luxe-magazine.co.uk

JAN/FEB21

GET HAPPY

Little moments Time to get happy...

Corrina Atkinson Photography

Happy New Year! Happiness. It's a funny old thing, isn't it? One man's happiness is another man's misery. We’ve heard it said before that childhood is one of the happiest times of our lives. Kids are carefree, relaxed, full of joy with infinite possibilities ahead of them; but not all children are happy. Why is that? Over the past fifteen years, positive psychologists have been researching the subject of happiness. I’m not talking about ‘skipping through the fields’ kind of Hollywood happiness but a more realistic and achievable definition; “The experience of joy, contentment, or positive wellbeing, combined with a sense that one's life is good, meaningful, and worthwhile.” Researchers have found that three main features determine our happiness. Some are within our control and some aren’t. I’ve broken it down, focusing particularly on our children. According to Sonja Lyubomirsky, a professor of psychology at the University of California, at least 50% is based on genetics. We all have a baseline level of happiness which we keep returning to again and again. This is called ‘hedonic adaptation.’ We adapt to our surroundings and regardless of positive or negative experiences, we eventually return to our baseline. Let me give you an example. Your child has been desperate for a puppy and when they get one, they are so excited, only to have this joy dwindle after a few weeks. They become dissatisfied with the chores that go along with having a pet and leave it all up to you. They get used to the new family member, the novelty wears off and they return to their usual demeanour. It can be infuriating but it’s nature. They have returned to their natural, happiness baseline. There is a positive flipside to hedonic adaptation though. If your child experiences a trauma such as a death of a loved one, being in the middle of a messy separation or becoming ill, after a while of dipping below their baseline, they will adapt. They will return to their set level of contentment because as humans, we are extremely resilient. Let’s think about what your child’s baseline level is. Maybe you would describe your child as happy-go-lucky with a sunny disposition. Cheerfulness just seems to be their natural state. They would most likely have a baseline level of around 7 or 8 out of 10. However, maybe your child just seems to be more of a ‘glass-is-half-empty’ kind

JAN/FEB21

of kid. In this case, they would have a lower set level of happiness (e.g. a 4 out of 10). This baseline is out of their control because they inherited their genes. But it’s important to remember that genes do not determine our life’s journey. In fact, the hard-wiring in our brain can be dramatically influenced by our behaviour and experiences. So, what is the other 50% of our happiness based on? Well, according to Lyubomirsky’s research, approximately 10% is based on your child’s circumstances which again is out of their control. These circumstances include where they live, which school they go to, the economic status of care-givers, if they come from a one-parent or two-parent family, housing arrangements etc. But this only amounts to 10% of their wellbeing. Having an abundance of material possessions for example, doesn’t make children much happier; in fact, there is research to say quite the opposite. The good news is that the final 40% is from intentional action, which children can control. We can’t change a child’s temperament but we can give them experiences and opportunities to increase their happiness. In my experience, most children by their very nature are joyful. However, there may be some children either because of genetics or because of circumstances, or both - who need a little boost to their happiness. Who wouldn’t want to be a little bit more content? If we can encourage healthy habits now, our children have a greater chance of creating life-long wellbeing for themselves. So, how can we help our children cultivate happiness? Here are a few ideas backed by science:

Children will naturally lean towards one or more of these actions and this is where we come in as parents. We can encourage our children when we notice their natural tendencies. It is our job to give them a variety of opportunities to boost their wellbeing and with it their self-esteem, emotional control and empathy. We can set them up for success by choosing three or four of these actions as a family and repeating them until they become habitual. It is important to remember that genes, circumstances and activities are not isolated as they can influence each other and merge together. But it is comforting to know that

Nadia McSheffrey is founder of The Tranquil Treehouse. Nadia works with parents to help them be the parent they want to be and find tranquility in their family lives. She also works with children and teachers to support their own emotional wellbeing. For more information and daily parenting support, follow her at: thetranquiltreehouse.com and on Facebook and Instagram @tranquiltreehouse

with a few little tweaks to our daily routine, we can encourage increased wellbeing in our children and our family as a whole. At the end of the day, it’s impossible to predict the future happiness of our children, but by engaging in positive and uplifting experiences now, we can lay the foundations for a meaningful adult life. Nadia x

DAILY GRATITUDE >> Random acts of kindness Choosing their own goals and accomplishing them Keeping physically active Being responsible for jobs around the house Having a focus on spiritual development Staying mentally healthy Being part of a community and contributing to it Having child-led, free uninterrupted play Having a real connection with people and nature Having less stimulation and fewer distractions

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STARRY-EYED BUYS DUCHAMP LONDON >> Submariner Roll Neck Jumper, Burgundy, £175, harveynichols.com

COMME DES GARÇONS PLAY >> Red heart logo tee, £91, endclothing.com

IWC >> Schaffhausen Portugieser Automatic, £10,950, berrysjewellers.co.uk

AMIRI >> Contrast-Tipped Bouclé Cardigan, £610, mrporter.com DIOR >> Stellaire3 aviator-style sunglasses, £319, harveynichols.com

MAN KIT

Love will wear us apart Rich reds and pastel pinks for the most romantic season of them all...

TOM FORD >> Bannister Leather-Trimmed Suede Sneakers, £590, mrporter.com

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PRADA >> Tonal Logo Patch Bowling Shirt, £545, farfetch.com

PURDEY >> Slim-Fit Stretch-Cotton Corduroy Trousers, £245, mrporter.com

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ARMANI >> Prive Rouge Malachite 50ml, £245, harveynichols.com

BALTIC >> The Station, Chris Killip, £70, shop.balticmill.com

JAN/FEB21

MEGA MOTORS

AT THE WHEEL with Bob Arora

Bob gives us a market update on the wonderful world of electric motors

The future is electric… As I write this column, we have just gone into another lockdown; and while our focus turns to the Government once again, I thought it would be a good opportunity to talk about Government plans to ditch petrol and diesel-powered cars by 2030. With this in mind, car manufacturers are desperately trying to catch up to the market leaders, Tesla. Porsche introduced the amazing Taycan last year; this is Porsche’s first foray into electric cars. Technically, that isn’t true as Ferdinand Porsche’s first car, the Egger - Lohner C.2 Phaeton, was actually powered by an octagonal electric motor and this was all the way back in 1898. The car’s top speed was 22mph and it could be driven for three to five hours or a maximum of 49 miles. It had 12 gears, six forward, two reverse and four for braking. The vehicle itself actually resembled a horse drawn carriage. The new Taycan is a real competitor to Tesla - when moving, it inherently feels like a Porsche to drive. It’s also very well put together, as you’d expect. This is no doubt a year or two away, but the prospect of an all-electric Maccan will be interesting, as it is the company’s best-selling car, so that’ll have to tick all the boxes in terms of range. Another manufacturer going all-guns blazing with its electric range is Audi. This year they are launching the e-tron GT, which promises to be a Taycan slayer. It’ll be an electric alternative to the Audi Q7. By 2025, Audi has said their range of electric cars will be around 12 models. This year they are also launching the Q4 e-tron, this could well be a competitor to the Tesla Model Y. BMW is another brand looking to make up lost sales with its new i4, which will be competing with the new Polestar 2 and the Tesla Model 3. From what I’ve heard, it’s likely to sprint to 62mph in around four seconds with a top speed of 124mph; and, the bit I personally find hard to believe, is the potential 370-mile range. If that is the case, it’ll be a massive game changer.

JAN/FEB21

BMW is also looking to introduce a couple of electric SUVs this year. The iX3 is basically an electric X3 which is looking to take on the Mercedes EQC and the Tesla Model Y. As they scramble for the spotlight, another manufacturer looking to join the electric party is Citroen with the e-C4. The petrol-powered C4 is priced from just under £21k - the electric version is expected to be much more expensive. They also promise a range of around 217 miles and a half an hour charge at a supercharger, which will take the battery to 80% in just 30 minutes. Seat is also in on the act with its Cupra El-Born. This car promises to be the answer to the hot hatch, but only in electric form. This funky looking motor will definitely turn heads with its aggressive styling. Jaguar has just one electric model at the moment, which appears to be a sales success for them as I’ve seen quite a few around the city (Newcastle). The gamechanger for them could be the new all electric XJ. This car isn’t the biggest of sellers for Jaguar, but electrifying it might just give it a much-deserved boost in sales as neither BMW, Audi or Mercedes have a premium electric luxury saloon. Nissan launched the all-electric Leaf ages ago. It wasn’t the sleekest of designs, but it was a step into the world of electric motoring. The new Ariya could be a big win for Nissan. Not only does it look stylish, but it is actually an SUV, which is the fastest growing segment in terms of sales. I think this car will be a massive success for Nissan, and with the potential range of 300 miles and all the tax advantages that come with electric motoring, I can see a bright future. Last year I drove an electric Kona and a hydrogen car from Hyundai. Both of these cars were brilliant; the hydrogen-powered car was particularly good as the only thing that came out of the exhaust was water. Once we have more hydrogen stations, this could be another alternative to the electric revolution. Our nearest hydrogen station is in Sheffield, so it’s definitely not practical at the moment.

This year they’ll be launching a Hybrid version of their biggest selling model, the Tuscan. The electric range will only be 30 miles, but for anyone worried about the car’s range, they have a petrol engine as well as the batteries. Tesla, the market leaders in EV cars, are launching the Model Y, which is basically a SUV model 3. Tesla is claiming a range of 314 miles - and the best bit about these beasts is the supercharger network.

houses its batteries under the floor. The EQS is going to be a direct competitor to the Tesla S; Mercedes are quoting possible range figures of 435 miles. With that kind of range, most people shouldn’t have any excuses about electric cars not being practical for daily use. The Mercedes halo car is the AMG One. Although not fully electric, this car has been designed closely with Sir Lewis Hamilton. It will be powered by a 1.6 litre turbo engine

Charging the car for 15 minutes will give you an impressive 168 miles. By the time you’ve ordered and finished a coffee, your car will have a good amount of range to get you to your next destination. Vauxhall is launching an all-electric Mokka. This small SUV will be sold alongside petrol and diesel engine cars. Skoda is looking to launch the Enyaq, which is going to be an all-electric car. It looks a bit like the boxy BMW 2-series, but it is smaller than the Octavia. From what I’ve seen, it looks like it’ll have loads of space for passengers. Mercedes are launching a trio of electric cars this year - the EQA, EQB and the EQS. The EQA will beat its rivals to the showroom to be the only premium all-electric crossover. The EQB looks like a compact SUV that

that is used in Mercedes F1 cars. It also has four electric motors which help give the car a top speed of 217mph, getting to 124mph in a blistering six seconds. Finally, the VW group has been selling hybrid and electric Golfs for a good while. They’ve introduced a new electric ID range. They launched the ID3 last year and had a huge waiting list. The new ID4 is basically an SUV - it is available in two battery sizes, a 55kwh or 77kwh. The larger battery pack of the two promises a range of over 300 miles. Although late to the electric scene, I personally think they’ll be the ones to watch - there is also talk of an electric camper-style van. Watch this space. Get ready for some great and exciting new cars this year!

luxe-magazine.co.uk

DESIGNER DIGS The site itself is surrounded by renewable technologies such as biomass, solar and wind power, so the Hypercave is all based on power and energy. “Being eco-friendly is a big, big thing for me,” explains the client. “I love the idea of self-sufficiency. When the grid drops, we can rely on our own sources. Supplying your own energy is like growing your own food, there’s something bizarrely pleasing about it.”

THE TECH >>

Good energy Luxe has been on site at a secret North East location to check out Hypercave’s latest project - a futuristic, converted barn that blurs the lines between high-tech design and renewable technology. Created as a new home for the client’s all-electric Tesla Cypertruck, it takes a rural farm building and gives it a futuristic twist. Check it out... THE BRIEF >> The client, who lives on agricultural land in a rural, North East location, wanted to inject new life into a barn building on the same site as his farmhouse. Taking inspiration from Tesla and his love of all things electric and renewable energy, the brief was to create a space to enjoy the finer things in life - whether it’s a luxe motor, a motorbike, sporting equipment, or simply just somewhere to relax, unwind and have a drink with friends. Hypercave’s Scott Stewart visited the site to see what he could do with the space and with no expense spared, came up with the concept to transform the barn into an indoor garage, offering a space to showcase supercars, but also plenty of high-end tech and luxurious soft furnishings. In short, the brief was to create a clean and contemporary space for socialising surrounded by some of the finest mod-cons.

THE INSPIRATION >> With never-ending feeds of inspiration in our back pockets, in the form of Pinterest and Instagram, we’re never short of ideas in the modern world. On this occasion, the client had been brainstorming about ways in which he

78 luxe-magazine.co.uk

could expand his garage into a space for socialising, for sportscars and for some seriously cool sports kit. After banking up some ideas, the client came across some of Design North’s Hypercave visuals on LinkedIn. Inspired by the ‘man cave’ concept, his initial ideas, paired with Scott’s creative guidance, quickly led to the space we see in construction today. With a Tesla Roadster in the garage the quickest car in the world - and the head-turning Tesla Cybertruck on order, it’s safe to say that this Hypercave customer is big on all things electric. Sustainability is at the centre of everything he does - and with a farm running on windmills and solar panels, his excess, home-grown power is going to be pumped into this new hideout. “Because we have so much renewable energy available on the farm, we’re working with Scott to create a wall of LED light panels,” he explains. “From the outside, you’ll see an unassuming farm building, but as soon as you step inside, you’ll be transported to a futuristic haven, inspired by sci-fi look. There’s a crazy world hidden behind this farm building.” Spot the Tesla Cybertruck driving around the North East countryside, and it may seem a

little out of place, but check it out in its Hypercave home and it’s exactly where it’s meant to be. The whole project is designed to be in-keeping with Tesla’s forward-thinking use of electricity and renewable energy. “The Hypercave can be used for more than just cars,” explains the client. “It can be used for storing quad bikes, peddle bikes - anything like that. I ride a BMX, so I could put that in the middle of the room and it would look equally as spectacular as a sportscar. “It’s a show garage - so it’s about showcasing whatever it is you are proud of, in one big, open space.”

KEY FEATURES >> The plans include a state-of-the-art gym and workout room, a multi-purpose studio, a bar and a mezzanine cinema room overlooking the garage with a screen that rolls down from the ceiling. Four ‘hobby rooms’ are set off of the main space. The idea is that, when you take up a new hobby and you stock up on all of the gear, this is a creative, visually-pleasing place to store it. It could be a themed pedal bike room, a space for storing ski equipment or automobilia. The main room offers ample space for vehicles, but has been carefully designed to showcase the Tesla Cybertruck and Roadster models. Complete with LED lighting spanning a full wall, as well as highly-polished floors for reflecting the cars, it’s the home a mighty motor from the Tesla range deserves.

Taking inspiration from Tesla and the modern world we’re living in, it’s safe to say, this Hypercave is all about the tech. Forward thinking, renewable tech, of course. “We have four Tesla powerwalls going in,” the client explains. “I’ve got renewable technology, but when you’ve got a surplus, it charges four Tesla battery packs. One of them is the founder’s edition, which will be signed by Elon Musk, which is pretty cool.” Pair that with a cinema screen that pulls down from the ceiling, a dazzling LED wall, sound systems, state-of-the-art gym and everything in between, and you’ve got an incredibly desirable den for luxury motors, collectables and more. The sheer comparison between rustic farm life and sci-fi design is quite remarkable, but it works. Open up the old barn doors and it quite literally feels like you’re stepping into the future. “Living on a farm, I love pick-up-trucks, so to find the Cybertruck - something that sits between a 4x4 and an electric vehicle - is just wonderful. “I’m fascinated by Elon Musk and his business model. The disruptive side of what he’s doing with battery technology in electric vehicles is amazing. “It will be great to use as a proper utilitarian vehicle on the farm. I can’t wait to check it out; although there’s something called ‘Tesla time’, where he puts a date on it, but never hits it, so I’m not sure when it will arrive on site, but I’m hoping we’ll have it in the Hypercave by the end of next year. “In the meantime, I’ve got plenty of tech and gadgets to fill the Hypercave - and I’m sure it will continue to develop as construction continues.”

WHAT’S NEXT? >> This Tesla-inspired Hypercave project is well underway and is approaching the cosmetic stage. The structures have been put in place, the concrete flooring has been poured; now it’s time for the fun part… the tech. Stay tuned on the @hypercave1.0 Instagram page for updates as the project continues. design-north.co.uk | @hypercave1.0

JAN/FEB21

ADVERTORIAL

Motoring on With everything that has been going on this year, you may have missed the opening of our brand-new Hyundai dealership, which is based in the ‘Motor City’ of Morpeth, right on Coopies Lane

We’ve got a fantastic range of Hyundai vehicles on offer, ranging from family-favourite SUVs to exhilarating performance vehicles and everything in between. With electric, plug-in hybrid and traditional fuel engines, Hyundai are experts in modern technology and give you the chance to choose how you want to drive. We offer great deals across the range, with finance options available on new and nearly new vehicles, too. We are fully accredited for Motability sales and servicing, and our team of Hyundai

specialists will be on hand to assist you, but we will be doing things a little differently. Our aftersales department is still open, with bookings being taken for MOTs, services and repairs. The obligatory handshake has been replaced with a friendly, touch-free greeting and face masks are mandatory - but don’t worry if you don’t have one, a single-use mask can be provided. Social distancing rules are in place, with clear communication on display to help you. Although our showroom is closed to the public, our sales teams are still available online or over the phone. We can send

you a personalised video tour of a vehicle that you are interested in, or arrange a live video call with you to show you around the car whilst answering any questions you may have. General Manager, Paul Walton, said: “As keen as we were to get things fully up and running, we’ve taken no short-cuts when it comes to safety, and we have implemented every possible measure in order to protect our colleagues and customers. Our aftersales department is open and our sales team look forward to virtually answering any sales enquiries you may have, either online or on the phone.”

Charged up & Ready to go Hyundai Kona

EV 150kW 64KWh Premium 5dr Auto [10.5kW Charger]

Up to 300 mile range Apple Car play & Android Auto Satellite Navigation

Wireless Phone Charging pad Rear Parking Camera

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New Hyundai Tucson 1.6 TGDi Hybrid 230 Premium 2WD 5dr Auto

1st Tucson Hybrid Apple Car play & Android Auto Satellite Navigation

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Hyundai Morpeth

Coopies Lane, Morpeth, Northumberland, NE61 6JN - 0167 0601 006 bristolstreet.co.uk/hyundai

CO2 results for Kona EV 150kW 64KWh Premium 5dr Auto: CO2 Emissions 0g/km and up to 300mile range. Fuel economy mpg (1/100km) and CO2 results for New Hyundai Tucson 1.6 TGDi Hybrid 230 Premium 2WD 5dr Auto: 49.6 (4.7k) CO2 Emissions 130g/km. Figures shown are for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption and CO2 figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. We act as credit brokers and we are not a lender. Finance is subject to status and finance company acceptance. We will introduce you to a limited number of lenders who may be able to help finance your purchase. These lenders may or may not pay us for the introduction. A guarantee may be required.*Excess mileage charged at 9p per mile. Terms and conditions apply. Unless otherwise stated, metallic paint at extra cost. For full details please visit the dealership. Bristol Street Motors Hyundai is a trading name of Bristol Street Fourth Investments Limited (Company registration number 00522856) which also trades as Bristol Street Motors Hyundai Silverlink, and of Bristol Street First Investments Limited (Company registration number 00251237) which also trades as Bristol Street Motors Hyundai Morpeth. VAT Registration number 902737238. Registered office: Vertu House, Fifth Avenue Business Park, Team Valley, Gateshead, NE11 0XAInformation and offer correct at time of going to print. Image for illustration purposes only.

GAME ON

Practice makes perfect

GREEN DAYS Our luxe guide to the tech, the kit and the people driving the region’s golf scene forward... KIT LIST >>

FOR THE GOLF BAG >> TREAT REPUBLIC >> Personalised Leather Golf Notebook, £35, treatrepublic.com

FOR HER >> PING >> Kira Women’s Long-Sleeved Top, £60, ping.com ECCO GOLF >> Women’s Cool Pro, £200, gb.ecco.com

Why working on your golf game at home can be key when it comes to getting ready to hit the course again, says Close House golf pro, Sally Hinton... Happy new year! As we start 2021 in national lockdown, golf courses across the country have been forced to close. Rest assured there are things you can do at home to get your golf fix and prepare you for the greens in the months to come. Putting is one of the easiest things to practice at home. First, check your set-up - your ball position should be just left of centre, eyes over the ball. Set up to the ball and drop a second ball from between your eyes to check your eye line. To putt well you need to have control of distance and direction. A good distance control drill is putting to coins of increasing distance. Set coins out at three, six and nine feet on a carpeted floor. Vary the length of your swing, keeping the backswing and follow through equal. A slight acceleration through impact helps to get the ball rolling. For direction, set a cup on its side and try to putt into it. Once you’ve mastered it, put yourself under pressure by trying to make three in a row. If you have room to chip outside, try using the step ladder drill to work on your trajectory. Set a box on each step of a ladder and try to knock each box down in succession. You can see me attempting this on my Facebook page Sally Hinton PGA Professional. If you can hit full shots at home into a net, there are some great ways to get feedback without even seeing the ball flight. For example, you can check your centeredness of strike by spraying a powdered foot spray onto the clubface. When you hit the ball you will be able to see where the ball hit the face. Let’s hope we’re back at the golf course again soon. In the meantime, take care and stay safe.

Whether you’re new to the sport, looking to get back into golf, or want to plan for a successful 2021 when the time is right, get in touch with the Close House PGA Golf Academy on: 01661 852255 or sally.hinton@closehouse.co.uk.

80 luxe-magazine.co.uk

PING >> Farrow Women’s Pull-On Winter Trousers, £80, ping.com

FOR HIM >> WOLSEY >> Navy Macro Stripe Quarter Zip, £120, wolsey.com

PING >> Mens Norse S2 Jacket, £139.95, golfonline.co.uk

IN THE MEANTIME... While we’re unable to get out on the greens, we’ve rounded up some top sporting podcasts featuring the interviews, updates and analysis on the golfing world. THE ENGLAND GOLF PODCAST A brand new podcast designed to keep listeners up-to-date with all that’s happening around the amateaur golf scene in the UK. Expect to hear behind-the-scenes views from England Golf, exclusive interviews with key figures and everything you need to know about how the golf scene is driving forward. englandgolf.org/podcast THE OPEN PODCAST Home to golf’s greatest stars and stories, The Open Podcast is a must-listen for all lovers of the game. From historical tales to interviews with the best of the best, you’ll be well clued up on the glorious game in no time. theopen.com/podcasts THE BUNKERED GOLF PODCAST The official podcast of bunkered.co.uk. Tune in for this weekly digest on all the latest goings-on from across the board. Hosts Michael McEwan and Bryce Ritchie pair up to welcome guests, share opinions and discuss the latest talking points in the game. It’s relaxed, it’s laid-back and it’s a place you’re sure to learn something new. bunkered.co.uk

JAN/FEB21

GAME ON

Image credit: Getty Images

A STORMING SUCCESS >> Luxe checks in with European Tour Golfer, Graeme Storm, following the launch of the Graeme Storm Golf Academy at Richmond (Yorks) Golf Club... LUXE: How did you get into golf? GRAEME: I was introduced to golf by my grandfather, who was a member of Hartlepool Golf Club for many years. I was about seven years old when I first played with just a seven iron, but I didn’t actually take the game up until I was 11. Football was always my greatest childhood passion, playing for two local teams every weekend, but golf soon took over once I knew I had more of a talent for it. LUXE: What do you remember about golf in the North East when you were growing up? GRAEME: Golf was always perceived as an expensive sport to play. It was also not a sport/hobby that most kids that I knew played and when I was at secondary school I kind of got teased for playing. This never deterred me from fulfilling my ambition in becoming a professional golfer and wanting to compete on the biggest stage. As I grew older and developed into a good player, I always tried to play with the best players in the golf club and the county, which then pushed me towards playing internationally by the age of 15. I believe that my upbringing helped me stay grounded in my development and I always knew how fortunate I was to be able to play golf.

JAN/FEB21

LUXE: Your proudest achievement to date? GRAEME: I have to say that I am lucky to have had so many proud moments during my career and that it’s extremely difficult to pick just one. I suppose most people would say that when I beat the then world number two, Rory McIlroy, in a play-off to win the South African Open in 2017, that that would be the standout achievement of my career. To be fair, it’s right up there with them all, but I truly believe that winning the British Amateur was the most amazing, careerchanging moment for me. It catapulted me into major golf championships (The Open and The US Masters), which as an amateur was a dream come true. It helped me to be the player I am today. LUXE: How does it feel to be launching the Graeme Storm Golf Academy at Richmond (Yorks) Golf Club? GRAEME: Launching the Graeme Storm Golf Academy is something that I have wanted to do for quite a while, and it has always been in the back of my mind to give back to the sport that has given me so much. It has been challenging so far, opening a business during a pandemic, but we are building a great team and looking forward

to growing in 2021. Our teaching pro, Mark Robson, has great pedigree (Ganton and The Roehampton Club) and we have exciting plans in the pipeline. LUXE: How did a turbulent 2020 affect your game? GRAEME: 2020 was the year that I made my return to playing on the European Tour after two years of injury. Feeling fresh, fit and ready to go, I was hoping to be able to get a good run of tournaments under my belt

to make sure that I retained my playing privileges for the following season. Then the pandemic hit. Having only played in four events then having to take four and half months off, three of them without playing/ practicing, wasn’t ideal at all. However, the European Tour did an amazing job in pulling together tournaments and the first week of the ‘UK Swing’ was a great week back for me. At the British Masters at Close House, I tied 10th. I was very happy. However, my return was short lived as I had to pull out of Wentworth due to my recurring wrist injury and have just had my third wrist operation, which will certainly be my last. With a great physio program and a lot of hard work I am very much hoping to return to the European Tour in the spring, pain free. LUXE: How is 2021 looking? GRAEME: 2021 at the Academy will be about growing the game of golf at grassroots level, nurturing talent within the game and focusing on the quality of coaching we deliver to all ages and abilities. For me on a personal level, I am aiming to fulfil my own goals on the European Tour and get back into the winners’ circle. LUXE: What advice would you give to golfers getting back into action come the spring? GRAEME: Meet up with friends, make new friends - young or old - and enjoy the fresh air! Remember, golf is only a game and you never have two rounds the same. graemestorm.co.uk/golf-academy

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PARTING SHOT

Castle high >> Sunny days ahead. A beautiful Bamburgh sunrise in 2020. Captured by Scott Antcliffe, @uktravelman on Instagram.

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Luxe Issue 67 Jan/Feb 2021

Articles inside

Real wedding

Making waves

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Talking Tristan

Luxe lowdown

Hollywood heights

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