Luxe Issue 50 Jan/Feb 18 by Allies Group Ltd

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ISSUE 50 JAN/FEB18

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www.luxe-magazine.co.uk ISSUE 50 JAN/FEB18

KE N N Y D O U G H T Y. Yo ga l uxe. L AYB OURNE M AS TERCL AS S . Lakes hideaways. Int re p i d a d ve n tu re s. COOL INTERIORS . A l ut hi er’s l a ir. RABY HU NT S P OT L I GH T. Cu l tu re f i x . L ING ER IE LOV E. Luxe l aps. L IFEGU IDE. Big n a m e s . W I N A GOL D EN W EEKEND . Luxe.

WHERE SOLD

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WELCOME

contents 10>> Do This ISSUE 50 JAN/FEB17 Welcome to our 50th. We’re celebrating this milestone edition with a deep breath, a sense of occasion and actually quite a chunk of pride. As we all know, sometimes it’s good to stop and smell the flowers. Our version of this has been to stop and leaf through the archives and look back on the people who have shared the Luxe journey as our cover stars. Pleasingly they form the ultimate ‘who’s who’ of the North East - and beyond. People who are household names, well-loved characters, inspirational entrepreneurs and proud ambassadors for the region. We’ve also, it has to be said, enjoyed a journey of fine food, amazing places, and the odd glass of Champagne along the way. We hope you enjoy this celebratory edition of Luxe - and hope you’ll take part in our fabulous competition to win a Luxe weekend of your own. Fittingly, we also bring you our Lifeguide Essentials magazine which is all about making the most of every moment. Relish yours - and thanks for being part of Luxe at 50.

Get a new year going

18>> Guitar man Luthier Sam McLaren

24>> Lingerie loves Boudoir beautiful

40>> Valentine buys Love your love

46>> Kenny Doughty Vera star close to home

52>> Luxe at 50 Our luxey lookback

56>> Another Place Cool lake retreat Sam McLaren, son of ex-England football manager Steve, is a talented luthier. He handcrafts exquisite guitars from his studio near Yarm. His luxe things in life include; My Uuni 3 pizza oven, my Lie Nielsen No.5 plane, this is my most used tool in the workshop. And lastly, family time!

58>> Verbier vibe Varsha’s ski secrets

60>> Wine time Not so dry January

70>> B&B bliss Indian-inspired interiors

78>> Luxe local Cool in Kendal

86>> X-Platoon

Don’t forget to visit us online at www.luxe-magazine.co.uk and sign up for our weekly LuxeLovesTheWeekend newsletter every Thursday at www.luxe-magazine.co.uk/theweekend

Arctic adventures await

90>> Me&My car Aston Martin in the garage

94>> Social Diary THE LUXE TEAM Christopher March publisher chris@remembermedia.co.uk EDITORIAL Kathryn Armstrong editorial director kathryn@remembermedia.co.uk Jessica Laing jessica@remembermedia.co.uk Elysia Agnew elysia@remembermedia.co.uk Chloe Laing chloe@remembermedia.co.uk SALES Lisa Anderson director lisa@remembermedia.co.uk Debi Coldwell director debi@remembermedia.co.uk Claire Graham claire@remembermedia.co.uk PHOTOGRAPHY Chris Auld chris@chrisauldphotography.co.uk Kevin Gibson info@kgphotography.co.uk Nicky Rogerson info@kgphotography.co.uk

Laura Ashurst is an ambassador for Breast Cancer UK and features in our Lifeguide section. Her luxe things: Jo Malone Lime, Basil & Mandarin perfume, my Mammoth pillow and Neom candles for relaxation

DESIGN David Stubbs creative director dave@remembermedia.co.uk Sophie Murphy sophie@remembermedia.co.uk

Join us every Thursday...

If you wish to advertise with us please contact our sales team: Lisa Anderson: lisa@remembermedia.co.uk / 07734 560565 Debi Coldwell: debi@remembermedia.co.uk / 07910 918366 Claire Graham: claire@remembermedia.co.uk / 0752 8713016

Remember Media Ltd, e.volve Business Centre, Cygnet Way, Rainton Bridge South, DH4 5QY remembermedia.co.uk All contents copyright ©2017 RememberMedia Ltd. All rights reserved. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, no responsibility can be accepted for inaccuracies, howsoever caused. No liability can be accepted for illustrations, photographs, artwork or advertising materials while in transmission or with the publisher or their agents. All information is correct at time of going to print, December 2017.

Action man Steve Heaney worked for the Special Forces and now runs X-Platoon adventures. His luxe things: an Aston Martin DB5, a Breitling Navitimer watch and bottle of Johnnie Walker Blue Label 200th year anniversary whisky.

Thanks to our friends at Buxton Press who have supplied some extra sparkle to this 50th edition of Luxe and continue to support us producing Remember Media’s quality publications. www.buxtonpress.com

luxe is published bi-monthly by Remember Media Ltd

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JAN/FEB18

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LIGHT YOUR LIFE

LUXE LOVES Drama at dinner Dine in stunning style beneath this jawdropping Led chandelier with white crystal drops. 120cm diameter by 106cm drop £1575 inc vat. www.sarahbowenlighting.co.uk

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JAN/FEB18

WINTER SALE NOW ON SOFAS | BEDS | MATTRESSES

Visit our Seaton Delaval showroom at Delcor House, Double Row, NE25 0PR Only 20 minutes from Newcastle city centre 0191 237 1303 WWW.DELCOR.CO.UK

LUXE LIFE

JOE MCELDERRY SOUTH SHIELDS-BORN PERFORMER JOE MCELDERRY has just wowed the region as Joseph in that technicolour dreamcoat. Since winning the X-Factor he’s never stopped singing, dancing, performing and recording. Now it’s time to get the skis on! LUXE PEOPLE >> I love anyone who is a big performer and who puts on a full show, like Celine Dion, Michael Jackson, Luther Vandross and Beyoncé. LUXE PLACES >> We go skiing every year to Austria and it is one of the most beautiful places. Anywhere with the snow and the mountains is so relaxing for me, and you can’t help but just switch off. It’s is really beautiful. for a weekend > If I could get there quick enough, maybe the Maldives? That would be a lovely weekend break. For a long holiday > The Caribbean is always nice and I still haven’t been over to Australia - it’s a place I would love to tick off my bucket list. For a treat > Rockliffe Hall and Seaham Hall are two of my favourites for a nice spa day. Can’t beat a day with a nice massage and good food. LUXE RELAX >> A day in the house is honestly luxurious for me. To be in my own home in my own bed watching boxsets on television is a good chill out day for me. Best food > A good Italian meal or a nice home cooked steak and ale pie with chips. Good hearty food which is the one thing I really miss while being on tour. You never get to eat properly because it is always what is available in the shop or can order in. When I get home it’s nice to have a home cooked meal. Best wine > I’m not a wine drinker but I do like prosecco. Wine gives me a really bad head the next day! Favourite restaurant > There is a place in Essex called Sheesh which you may have seen on the show The Only Way is Essex. They do grilled halloumi and deep fried halloumi kebabs and it is the most incredible place. Perfect weekend > Chilling out, catching up with friends going on a day trip somewhere new. Maybe a good night out in Newcastle. Downtime means > Downtime is being at home chilling out, not doing anything. Not having to travel anywhere spending the day in your PJs. I enjoy exercise classes and sessions at the gym. Best telly > The Real Housewives - I am obsessed with the show, at every single city all for different reasons. I have a website where I pay a subscription to get them all on demand from America as soon as they come out. Today three episodes from three different seasons have been uploaded so that is exactly what I will be watching tonight when I get home. It’s the reunion of the Cheshire show tonight and it is

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going to kick off - I can’t wait. Best sounds > I love Rita Ora’s new song Anywhere. LUXE SHOP >> Can’t go wrong with a bit of Topman. I know what sizes fit and it is reliable for me, especially for work and performance outfits. Best shopping city > Manchester and Liverpool are my favourite. Luxe retail treat > Unless I have to go shopping I won’t. I am the kind of shopper

who knows what they are going for, I will get it and then I will leave.

but all miles away. In Newcastle you can get from one place to the next in a short walk.

LUXE PARTY >> A memorable night out > I have had quite a few memorable nights out but Newcastle is always one of them. You just can’t beat it. There is so much variety in different parts and all in walking distance. Each quarter of Newcastle is so different, you go to other places and they have that,

Perfect party > A house party with my friends with music in one room and chatting in the other room and some people can go sit outside by the log burner we have out there. Just have all friends and family over. Dinner date > Anywhere with nice food and good drinks and I am happy!

JAN/FEB18

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COMING HOME

The Mews, Marmaduke Place The Mews, Marmaduke place effortlessly blends the tranquility of village life in Norton with its chic and vibrant living spaces. Beyond the traditional facade you’ll find contemporary design and structural elements only dreamed about in today’s construction era.

BUYING THE DREAM John Paget is a proud Marmaduke Place homeowner. Born and bred close to Norton, he will fondly remember the day his own dreams were fulfilled. John’s aspirations to live in a cool and contemporary yet functional living space transformed into reality when Marmaduke Place came onto the market. JON PAGET - MY FUTURE HOME JOURNEY I knew exactly what I was looking for when I started looking for my first home. Growing up with my father, who is an experienced builder, helped me to appreciate the daily challenges in delivering a quality end product. At this early stage, I had in my own mind what I would look for in a home and this further framed my own career as a quantity surveyor for one of the leading construction companies based in London. For me (as a perfectionist), there were

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several important factors I felt were needed to create my own dream property. These were location, contemporary yet functional living spaces, build quality, energy efficiency, outside/inside space, practicality, functionality and a sense of security. As soon as I walked through the door at Marmaduke Place, I could see that this property satisfied each of these. Throughout the whole process, from the initial viewing to the finishing touches, Future ID ensured that every aspect of design and building work was perfect. Their service was first class and has a really personal feel to it. Thanks to the trusting relationship formed between myself and the developer, the buyer process was simple and stress-free. I was thrilled to be asked to share my ideas, opinions and expertise on various finishing touches from the kitchen design to the paintwork. It was extremely satisfying knowing I had influenced certain aspects of the build, and this contributed to a feeling that the home was mine and had been tailored to suit my needs. An area I’m particularly pleased with is the outside living space accessed by French doors. The patio garden really adds to the open-plan nature of the townhouse, creating an inside/outside space perfect for sitting out

“It was extremely satisfying knowing I had influenced certain aspects of the build” in the morning with a coffee or hosting parties with friends and family in the summer. It’s a sleek, sociable space and is just one of the reasons why I fell in love with this property. I grew up close to Norton so have the pleasure of knowing the place well. It’s a real cosmopolitan, up-and-coming area and a great place for young people who are looking

for that sophisticated edge in a home. The high street buzzes from morning to night and continues to grow with new restaurants, bars, cafes and boutique businesses. I am incredibly proud to call The Mews, Marmaduke Place home and I can’t thank Future ID enough for guiding me on this journey to find my dream home in this great location.

JAN/FEB18

COMING HOME

FULFILLING THE DREAM The beauty of this bespoke development is that buyers can be as involved as they wish from the outset. Future ID ensures that the stress is taken out of the buying process, making it an exciting project as it should be. It’s about people making dreams; people finding their forever home and settling in a vibrant area. Those dreams are being made thanks to the individually-designed kitchens by Jonathan Brown of Stokesley Kitchens. The kitchen forms the heart of the

home in Future ID’s Marmaduke Place development, offering cutting edge, cosmopolitan living with a high specification. Stokesley Kitchens allows homeowners to add their own personal touches throughout the buying and moving-in process; meaning the buyer gets a bespoke design and finish, unique to any other property or kitchen. Perfect for entertaining, the open-plan space brings the whole of the downstairs together as one luxurious living space.

Stokesley Kitchens allows homeowners to add their own personal touches

Marmaduke Place and Future ID bring together contemporary townhouse living in the charming surroundings of Norton Village. If you’re interested in this exclusive development, please visit:

www.futuredevelopments.org www.barkerandstonehouse.co.uk

JAN/FEB18

www.stokesleykitchens.co.uk

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DO THIS

Stay in >> go out >> enjoy Beat the winter blues and kick the new year off in style. Chloé Laing guides you through the cultural events to come

JANUARY

Three brothers, decades of greatest hits, and songs that will always get you up on the dance floor. Find out why the Bee Gees music is still firmly ‘Stayin’ Alive’ via a sensational performance by tribute act ‘Nights on Broadway - The Bee Gees Story’ at the Sunderland Empire. Expect the full works with costume changes, a six piece band and all your dance floor favourites. Gimme that Night Fever! www.ATGtickets.com/sunderland

12-13 JANUARY Scouse comedy superstar, John Bishop is flying into Sunderland for two special nights of side-splitting fun! Head to the Sunderland Empire to experience his long awaited, stand-up comedy show, Winging It. The tummy-tickling tour will see the funny man back on stage for his fifth UK show series, performing in his unique, witty and dry style. Check in for an evening of banter and brilliant comedy from the TV favourite. www.ATGtickets.com/sunderland

13 JANUARY Get ready to impress your dinner guests at Betty’s Cookery School’s newest workshop ‘Elegant Winter Entertaining’ in Harrogate. Learn how to cook up an elegant threecourse meal with pan-roasted hake to start, duck with charred sprouts and walnut granola for mains and sticky ginger cake with spiced rum butterscotch for dessert. Delicious! www.bettyscookeryschool.co.uk

14 JANUARY Sundays are for relaxing and what better way than having a delicious Sunday Roast in front of you with soothing Live Music in the background. Enjoy the wonderful sounds of band Last Anthem at the Lilli Cafe as you tuck into your Yorkshire puds. www.lillicafe.co.uk

15-21 JANUARY Rejoice foodies of the North East! NE1 Newcastle Restaurant Week is back with even more newbies for you to sink your teeth into. Clear your diaries and fill the days up with some dining days out. This year Restaurant Week will run from 15th-21st January 2018. Get ready to dig into some of the delicious deals that make eating out inexpensive with prices starting from £10-15pp. This wonderful week-long event will be bringing plenty of fresh and exciting dishes to the table and we can’t wait to sample what some of our ravishing restaurants have to offer. www.getintonewcastle.co.uk

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30 JANUARY 7 FEBRUARY

16 JANUARY Catch up with some local legends at the City Hall as former Newcastle United, Everton, Liverpool and England footie star Peter Beardsley and one of Newcastle United’s greatest ever midfielders Rob Lee Newcastle drop by for ‘Legends in Conversation’. Relive some of the glory days with the guys and Perry Groves from Talksport. www.theatreroyal.co.uk

Learn about the percussive art of taiko at the Sage’s Kodo performance. The vibrant, pounding tour marks the first time the drumming performance troupe has left Japan for Europe. Watch in amazement as they create unique sounds with rhythmic beating of drums and bells. www.sagegateshead.com

JANUARY

Sip your hot chocolate from a beautiful personalised mug this winter after working away at the National Glass Centre’s decorative workshop. Create your own masterpiece or a gift for someone special. Get creative with friends, family and little ones for a lovely day out. www.nationalglasscentre.com

JANUARY

23-24 JANUARY Get ready for a Strictly-fuelled extravaganza at the Metro Radio Arena as the live dancing tour comes to Newcastle. Celebrate everything there is to love about the dazzling show from the sparkling costumes to the incredibly talented dancers. All set to the soundtrack of the superb Strictly band and singers with special judge guest appearances from Craig Revel Horwood and Bruno Tonioli. www.metroradioarena.co.uk

JANUARY

The world’s most iconic folk rock group is back for the The Simon & Garfunkel Story. Relive their journey with a time capsule of contemporary newsreels, adverts and film footage from the 1960s and beyond. Enjoy a night of travelling back through their iconic road to worldwide success. www.sagegateshead.com

Join Dave Spikey at the Gala Theatre in Durham for a night of down to earth comedy. Celebrate 30 years of his presence on stage making audiences all over the globe laugh out loud. The tour will look back on his remarkable life and journey from biomedical scientist to funny man and everything inbetween. The much loved comedy performer and writer has many big names under his belt having worked on; Phoenix Nights, 8 out of 10 Cats, Bullseye, Dead Man Weds, Magnolia, The Royal Variety Show, Parkinson and many more. www.galadurham.co.uk

Raise a glass to Robert Burns at Blackfriars at the celebratory annual Burns Night Supper. Stick to tradition with an evening filled with Scottish whisky, haggis, cock-a-leekie, tatties and Cranachan and cheese. A dram of whisky will be presented at every course along with a brilliant Burns’ poem. Fabulous evening for poetry enthusiasts. www.blackfriarsrestaurant.co.uk

JANUARY

One of the best loved musicals of all time, Les Misérables harmonises its way into to the Princess Alexandra Auditorium at Yarm School. Set against the backdrop of 19th-century France, the performance tells an enthralling story of broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption – a timeless testament to the survival of the human spirit. Featuring a much loved soundtrack and heartfelt tale. www.thepaaonline.org

Follow the much loved Oscarwinning DreamWorks Animation film as it transforms into Shrek the Musical at Sunderland Empire. Hilariously funny and spectacular production that will have all the family lost in laughter as it turns the fairytale world upside down. Plenty of high-energy dancing and singing to keep you thoroughly entertained throughout. www.ATGtickets.com/sunderland

26 JANUARY There’s a proper Scottish party going down at the Life Science Centre and you are all invited! Celebrate Burns Night in the traditional way with a wee dram of whisky, some delicious canapés and finished off with a sumptuous serving of haggis, neeps and tatties. Tastebuds truly satisfied, it’s time to take to the dance floor with your best ceilidh dancing with the Angels of the North band. Bonnie lasses and lads get down for a night of feel good fun - kilts encouraged! www.life.org.uk

31 JANUARY 31 JANUARY - 3 FEBRUARY

25 JANUARY

Young Clara peeps downstairs on Christmas Eve to play with her new favourite toy - a nutcracker doll. Instead, she is swept off her feet on a magical adventure that will change her life forever by the mysterious magician, Drosselmeyer. Join Clara as she travels through the Land of Snow to the Kingdom of Sweets and as she defeats the Mouse King on her way. Scottish Ballet promises to deliver the most enchanting and mesmerising performance of The Nutcracker to date. Perfect to get you into a feel good spirit with dazzling costumes, stunning performances and Tchaikovsky’s sumptuous, sugar-spun score accompanied by the Scottish Ballet Orchestra. www.theatreroyal.co.uk

JAN/FEB18

ADVERTORIAL

Too late to start over? The divorce rate in the UK is steadily decreasing with one noticeable exception - the over 60s age group. Divorce statistics produced by the Office for National Statistics show the number of people divorcing who are aged 60 years and older has risen significantly since the 1990’s and, indeed, by as much as 73%. The Baby Boomers are now Silver Separators! There are a number of suggested theories for this increase: so-called “empty nest syndrome” is stated to be one of the most significant reasons why couples, who have been together for many years, find themselves parting company. With their children having grown up and left the coop, the parents find themselves with time on their hands – particularly if retirement has commenced or is looming together with a realisation that not only do they have less in common than they previously thought, but that they are not prepared to simply tolerate each other once their family has moved on. With many people remaining active for longer, some are seeking to make the most of a time in their life without familial ties and with a level of financial certainty available to them. Despite the average length of marriage of the divorcing over-60s being just over 27 years, it would seem that this no longer a bar to starting over. It has been suggested that the lessening stigma of divorce contributes to this rising trend, as does the increased financial independence of women. Ros Altmann, Director General of the over-50s group Saga, believes that ‘for many it’s the start of the next phase of their lives, not the end of their life as people in the past were often led to expect’. It is a fact that, as a population, we are living longer and

the overall number of people aged over 60 is increasing. Increased life expectancy would tend to show that marriages are now more likely to end in divorce and less likely to end by the death of a spouse than a quarter of a century ago. Whilst this trend may sit uncomfortably with many of us, it is nevertheless a reality which needs sensitive and expert handling: for some, it can leave at least one of the parties to the marriage feeling vulnerable, lonely and seemingly ill-equipped for single life at a mature stage in life. It should be no surprise that dividing possessions and starting again can be deeply traumatic after so many years as part of a couple. Pensions are generally recognised as being a complex asset; they will be of huge importance at this time given that they are likely to have been built up over a number of years and have substantial value and both parties will have great reliance upon them at this later time of their lives. As with everything, a situation which is not going to go away is best faced with an armoury of information and options. Knowing how to source support on a legal and financial level, and more importantly, on an emotional level is key to moving on. Advice on pension entitlement and the effect divorce will have is of course of primary importance for people of this age group. Equally, this does not spell the end of the road for everyone who finds themselves divorcing later in life and for those who go on to new relationships and perhaps marriages, planning for provision for both new and existing families is essential and in turn requires advice about having a prenuptial agreement and proper will-planning. This is not as materialistic as it may seem when adult children and grandchildren are involved in the extended family. Divorce changes wills and

inheritance issues can be a serious consideration. We recognise that at Major Family Law and have a number of services specifically designed to support you and ensure that you are able to start a new chapter this New Year with confidence.

Lucinda Connell is Associate Solicitor at Major Family Law, the Divorce and Family Law Specialists, 12 West Road, Ponteland, Newcastle upon Tyne. T: 01661 82 45 82 www.majorfamilylaw.co.uk. Twitter: @majorfamilylaw

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

Romance at Rockliffe. . .

www.majorfamilylaw.co.uk

Show them how much you love them at Rockliffe Hall, the north of England’s only five-star hotel, golf and spa resort. Relax in the award-winning spa, dine in one of the three magnificent restaurants, or for the ultimate experience why not make a night of it with a luxury overnight stay. To find out more call 01325 729999 or email enquiries@rockliffehall.com

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

JAN/FEB18

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DO THIS

6-8 FEBRUARY

2 FEBRUARY Dress up and get ready to have a good dance at The Only Way is 80s at The Playhouse Whitley Bay. The UKs newest and most exciting 80s music show is dropping by with hits from Wham, Madonna, Queen, Spandau Ballet and so much more. Get yourself down for an evening of fabulous music and 80s dancing. www.playhousewhitleybay.co.uk

A story of love and compassion told by Christopher Bruce’s iconic “ghost dancers” as they perform Rambert: Ghost Dances and other works at the Theatre Royal. The dancers interrupt the daily lives of a series of ordinary people and the performance visually references the Day of the Dead, driven by bewitching Latin American folk music in a intensely moving human work. A gorgeous, must see show. www.theatreroyal.co.uk

6 FEBRUARY Son Of A Preacher Man comes to the Darlington Hippodrome. Swing down to the 1960’s joint and dance the night away to the greatest hits of Dusty Springfield, including ‘The Look Of Love’, ‘I Only Want To Be With You’, ‘Spooky’ and of course, the classic ‘Son Of A Preacher Man’. Laugh, cry and belt your heart out! www.darlingtonhippodrome.co.uk

9 FEBRUARY

FEBRUARY

Join the Royal Northern Sinfonia and guest vocalists for a fabulous performance of New York, New York at Sage Gateshead. The evening will celebrate the music of George Gershwin and Leonard Bernstein to mark what would have been the latter’s 100th year. Get comfy and enjoy some of the greatest melodies ever written, including Rhapsody in Blue, Summertime, and numbers from West Side Story. www.sagegateshead.com

For a spellbinding performance join Elkie Brooks at the Sage Gateshead as she mesmerises audiences with her brilliant vocals. Expect standing ovations as she delivers emotional renditions of beautiful ballads, powerhouse blues vocals and some of her trademark impossibly long notes that will blow you away and pull at your heartstrings. www.sagegateshead.com

10 FEBRUARY - 26 MAY Admire exhibitions by Sean Scully as he represents one of the greatest eras “The Seventies” at The Laing Art Gallery. Browse through paintings from 1968-1974 which demonstrate the remarkable early confidence of Scully’s work and his interest in stripes, and the spaces in between. His work has featured in almost every major museum around the world and now sits proudly in Newcastle. www.laingartgallery.org.uk

4 FEBRUARY

FEBRUARY A young bourgeois, Armand Duval, falls madly in love with Marguerite Gautier, a gorgeous courtesan celebrated by Parisian high society. He will do anything to convince the courtesan to leave her high society life and to win her heart. For a breathtaking viewing of The Lady of the Camellias by the Bolshoi Ballet head to the Tyneside Cinema. The production breathes new life into John Neumeier’s tragic masterpiece, inspired by Alexandre Dumas’ novel and accompanied by Chopin’s exquisite score. An emotional and dramatic performance. www.tynesidecinema.co.uk

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10 FEBRUARY He’s back and he’s coming to Newcastle City Hall! Jason Manford has had a busy past few years since his last stand up show, but he is back and better than ever. Bringing North East audiences brilliant brand new material about growing up ‘working class’ and transitioning to ‘middle class’ hence the show title, Muddle Class. His captivating charm and quick wit is not to be missed in this hilariously funny show! www.theatreroyal.co.uk

19 FEBRUARY A night of entertainment awaits as The Script bring their fourth UK number one album and special guest Ella Eyre to Metro Radio Arena. Join the Irish trio as they deliver brand new tracks from Freedom Child along with some fan favourites for everyone to enjoy. www.metroradioarena.co.uk

FEBRUARY

Go on a winter expedition with top British mountaineer Andy Kirkpatrick as he takes you on a captivating journey with talk Psychovertical: A Higher Education Presented with Speakers from the Edge at Sage Gateshead. A leading expert on conquering some of the most difficult routes in the world and telling the stories in the most motivational way, his show will look back on 40 brilliant years of climbing and adventures from the Alps to Patagonia, Yosemite to Greenland; a story of all the things that make life amazing. www.sagegateshead.com

Celebrate soul legend Seal’s tenth studio album “Standards” and join him at Sage Gateshead for a night of Old Hollywood glamour. Enjoy his brilliant new songs and reminisce in his old with hits Kiss from a Rose and Killer dropping in the set for fans to sing along to. Backed by a big band the multi-award winning star will be belting out his luxurious new tunes. www.sagegateshead.com

9 FEBRUARY

Comedian Ed Gamble will be charming his way into the Gala Theatre with his brilliantly funny show. After a successful 2016 tour Ed is back with new material to warm up audiences with. Ed has featured on shows such as Mock the Week, Russell Howard’s Stand Up Central, Edinburgh Comedy Fest Live and Man Down. www.galadurham.co.uk

13 FEBRUARY

Unbreakable duo Erasure bring their seventeenth album in 32 years to the City Hall for North East audiences to enjoy. See why the groups songwriting partnership is one of immense strength and join them for an evening of brilliant new music. www.theatreroyal.co.uk

Lovers, fairies, mischief and moonlight come together to create Shakespeare’s classic tale, A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Ballet Theatre UK will charm audiences at Middlesbrough Theatre with a dazzling performance full of enchantment, music and dance. Fabulous costumes, stunning original choreography and the iconic Mendelssohn score will take your breath away as the dancers take to the stage and transport you to a magical woodland. A treat for the whole family to enjoy. www.middlesbroughtheatre.co.uk

FEBRUARY

14 FEBRUARY Head to the Theatre Royal for the gritty and invigorating production of Hedda Gabler. Join newlyweds Hedda and Tesman as they return home from their honeymoon with cracks already breaking into their new relationship. Watch the world around them as it unravels in this thrilling masterpiece by Olivier Award-winning playwright Patrick Marber and Tony Award-winning director Ivo van Hove. www.theatreroyal.co.uk

FEBRUARY

Catch charismatic and uniquely gifted performer Toyah Wilcox at the Princess Alexandrea Auditorium for a vibrant performance. The much loved actress, music composer and rock legend will be showcasing her talents and taking audiences on a journey of her greatest hits. www.thepaaonline.org

FEBRUARY

A captivating tale of twins separated at birth and brought up in parallel universes on the opposite sides of the tracks. Blood Brothers is one of the very best of all times written by the brilliant Willy Russell and taking over the globe sweeping up major awards on the way. Unmissable and unbeatable! www.darlingtonhippodrome.co.uk

20-24 FEBRUARY On a dark winter’s night a student is called home from university to find his life twist turned upside down. He had it all, but now everything has changed. Rising star Paapa Essiedu plays the title role following a critically acclaimed run in Stratford-upon-Avon in 2016. A riveting contemporary take on Hamlet by Royal Shakespeare Company that will have you on the edge of your seat at Northern Stage. www.northernstage.co.uk

JAN/FEB18

LE ON SA W O N

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Award Winning Art For Your Home Originals • Prints • Ceramics • Greetings Cards • Stationery www.lucypittaway.co.uk - 01748 810 965

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21 FEBRUARY

The extraordinary story of how one man changed the course of the second world war, Pressure comes to the Theatre Royal. Set in June 1944 with lives and the future of the Country at stake meteorologist James Stagg must advise General Eisenhower on when to send thousands of waiting troops across the Channel in Operation Overload. A gripping performance that makes you proud to be British! www.theatreroyal.co.uk

The nation’s favourite ballroom couple Anton and Erin swing into Sage Gateshead with their exciting new show From Broadway to Hollywood. Expect to enjoy stunning new choreography, dazzling costumes and timeless music from a sensational show band. An elegant evening celebrating a decade of dance. www.sagegateshead.com

FEBRUARY

Look back on a brilliant 50 years in the business with An Evening with Sir Michael Parkinson at the Tyne Theatre and Opera House. Celebrate the life, career and important cultural influence he has held over the industry with his son Mike. Mike will share with audiences an informative look at his remarkable journey from a pit village in Yorkshire to the top of those famous stairs whilst reliving the best moments from a show that for many defined their Saturday night. www.tynetheatreandoperahouse.uk

FEBRUARY

Metro Radio Arena welcomes Morrissey to the stage as he brings his new album ‘Low in High School’ to the North East. The album is highly anticipated by fans as it is the sensational singer’s first album released since 2014. Hugely successful, The Smiths frontman never fails to put on a show. www.metroradioarena.co.uk

23 FEBRUARY Ramside Hall are gonna have a party, and it’s guaranteed fun All Night Long at their fabulous Lionel Richie Tribute Night. They will have you Dancing on the Ceiling to some of Lionel’s greatest hits along with a two course meal to enjoy. Tribute act Create Hamilton will wow audiences with his stage presence, resemblance and amazing vocals for a night you will always remember! www.ramsidehallhotel.co.uk

FEBRUARY FEBRUARY

Adventurers unite at Banff Film Festival for an evening of extraordinary short films at the world’s most prestigious mountain film festival, shown at the Princess Alexandrea Auditorium at arm School. Follow the exciting expeditions from some of today’s most incredible adventurers and watch adrenaline inducing footage of action sports from all over the globe. www.thepaaonline.org

27 FEBRUARY 3 MARCH A girl from a little town in Liverpool with big dreams, Cilla is a heartwarming musical celebrating the life of one of Britain’s best-loved entertainers of all time. Take a trip with her through her years of success starting with an introduction to music mogul Brian Epstein by John Lennon which changed her life forever. It’s ultimate 60’s soundtrack will see you singing along to some of Cilla’s greatest hits. www.theatreroyal.co.uk

28 FEBRUARY Metro Radio Arena welcomes Paul Weller as he celebrates 40 years of great music. Since his first album released in 1977 with The Jam the singer has gone strength to strength and he is only getting stronger. Join him for an evening of brilliant new music from his eagerly awaited 13th Studio album A King Revolution. One for the diaries! www.metroradioarena.co.uk

Check out David Walliams’ amazing tale Awful Auntie - full of frights, fights, and friendship, as it plays at the Darlington Hippodrome. Young Stella sets off on an adventure with her parents Lord and Lady Saxby to London, but little does she know her life is in danger. Awaking three months later with only her Aunt Alberta to tell her what has happened, but can she trust everything she says? A great watch for all the family. www.darlingtonhippodrome.co.uk

VALENTINE’S DAY 12 FEBRUARY Get ready for the most romantic day of the year at Blackfriars Valentine’s Chocolate Making Night. Make personalised artisan chocolates for your loved one for those extra brownie points! Your little chocolatey masterpieces will be lovingly packed in boxes ready to take home to impress your partner - that’s if you don’t eat them first! www.blackfriarsrestaurant.co.uk

FEBRUARY

14 FEBRUARY

Treat your partner to a night of foot-tapping fun with Top Hat at the Tyne Theatre and Opera House. Get into the glamour of Hollywood’s golden age and the glorious tap-dancing magic of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. Be prepared dazzling costumes, 1930’s song and dance and a love story that will set your pulse racing this Valentine’s Eve. www.tynetheatreandoperahouse.uk

Pop down with your partner for an evening of nostalgia with the wonderful Vonda Shepard as she is live in concert at Sage Gateshead. Join her as she serenades you with favourites such as, Tell Him, Hooked On A Feeling, I Only Want To Be With You, Baby Don’t You Break My Heart Slow, Proud Mary, Walk Away Rene and You Belong To Me. www.sagegateshead.com

14 FEBRUARY

Set out on a romantic stroll from Whitley Bay to Tynemouth, dig into some delicious locally caught fish dishes at Riley’s Fish Shack all while you look out at the sea. Watch the world go by before wandering back up the coast line. The perfect day out to celebrate Valentine’s Day! www.rileysfishshack.com

A tale of unrequited love that is both hilarious and heartbreaking as the Royal Shakespeare Company present Twelfth Night at the Gala Theatre Durham. Twins Viola and Sebastian are separated in a shipwreck on a strange land where they get tangled in a web of romance in one of Shakespeare’s most entertaining comedies. www.galadurham.co.uk

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FEBRUARY

Search for the stars at Kielder Observatory and watch the Aurora Borealis or, The Northern Lights. Nothing spells out romance more than sharing starry skies with a loved one. Enjoy the science and stories behind the lights and learn how a light show like no other is formed. Head out to the observation deck and gaze at the dark skies and maybe even the Milky Way, all from one of Europe’s darkest locations. www.kielderobservatory.org

JAN/FEB18

ADVERTORIAL

Why Yarm School is leading the way Yarm School is one of the region’s top performing schools whose GCSE and A-Level results are way ahead of others in the area. In The Sunday Times Parent Power league tables, Yarm School was ranked 2nd in the North East, taking the top spot in Teesside and County Durham. Only 13 schools in the North East feature in the top 500. At GCSE level, Yarm celebrated an A* rate of 46% which significantly surpassed the national average of just 7%. At A-Level, nine pupils secured places to study at Oxford and Cambridge universities and 15 pupils secured place on prestigious medical courses. A highly significant piece of independent research by Durham University quantified the added value HMC schools bring to pupils of all aptitudes. It shows schools like Yarm give pupils the equivalent to two years’ worth of additional education by the time they reach their GCSEs. The small class

sizes, excellent teaching and positive ethos all benefit the pupils enormously and help to produce such fantastic results.

Educating for Life Our aim is simple: to provide our pupils with a wide range of opportunities to develop their personal skills and the confidence to move on to university and into the world of work. The school believes strongly in the value of sport, music and drama, as well as academic achievement and offers a wide range of extra-curricular activities, all of which are nurtured by specialist teachers from nursery onwards. The opportunities offered by Yarm School develop pupils’ interpersonal and leadership skills ready for today’s competitive employment market. From coding apps at the Prep School to Sixth Form students taking a lead by organising lunchtime activities, all extra-curricular activities develop the ‘soft-skills’ sought by top employers.

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From Nursery onwards we are ambitious for our pupils and ensure that they feel safe, nurtured and excited to embrace early learning opportunities. We place great value on ensuring that learning is fun, engaging and rewarding, but also provides breadth of opportunity from an early age. Building life skills, fostering resilience and developing confidence in our pupils is at the heart of what Yarm Preparatory School stands for, whether in the classroom, on the stage, sports field or in the clubs and activities programme. Life at Yarm is an adventure, full of opportunities that are character-building and enjoyable, effectively preparing our pupils for life in the Senior School and beyond.

The next whole school Open Morning is on Saturday 13th January 2018, from 9.30am to 12pm. The entrance assessments will be held on Saturday 20th January 2018. Private visits can also be arranged. Yarm School, The Friarage, Yarm, TS15 9EJ (11-18 years) T: 01642 786023 Yarm Preparatory School, Grammar School Lane, Yarm, TS15 9ES (3-11 years) T: 01642 781447

www.yarmschool.org

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GOOD STUFF

Sweet charity Doing good things in the North East, our charity round-up GRAND AFFAIR >> Latimer Hinks Solicitors hosted 370 guests at Wynyard Hall in November at its prestigious Charity Ball. The black tie event, which included a fun-money casino and luxury prize raffle and auction, was compèred by international swing singer Cole Page and saw Britain’s Got Talent star David Penn wowing guests with close-up magic and illusions. Marking the culmination of the Darlingtonbased firm’s 125th year celebrations, the Ball, with support from County Durham Community Foundation, raised £36,000 for St Teresa’s Hospice and Darlington & Bishop Auckland MRI-Scanner Appeal, as well as a number of smaller local charities.

LIGHT FANTASTIC >> North East charity, The Watson Family Charitable Trust brought light and love to Newcastle with a beacon of light from St George’s Church, Jesmond. The church will now be lit up every evening. The Bishop of Newcastle, Christine Hardman led the thanksgiving service with mayor Linda Wright and the Reverend Canon Brian Hurst welcoming almost a thousand people to the service and the event. Ian Watson said: “We are supporting a wide range of educational and support services for children in the North East and beyond as well as community projects – of which the Jesmond lighting event was one. “As a neighbour of the church it has always struck me as wrong that such a beautiful building in the middle of our community can “disappear” when darkness falls.  I’m delighted we have been able to gift this lighting so the community of Jesmond and the local area can enjoy our wonderful building in darkness as well as in daylight hours.” The Watson Family Charitable Trust also continues to work with and support the children at the Percy Hedley School.

Anto Finnegan, Eamonn Elliott (Chief Executive Rockliffe Hall), Eamonn’s daughter, Erin Dorothy Elliott (age 11)

HEARTFELT TRIP >> Rockliffe Hall’s Chief Executive, Eamonn Elliott, flew to Belfast especially to present a cheque for £6,465, to lifelong friend, Anto Finnegan, for his Trust, deterMND. The Trust was established on behalf of Anto, the former Antrim Gaelic football captain, after he was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease in August 2012. The money was raised after Eamonn and two colleagues at Rockliffe Hall, Executive Chef of The Orangery, Richard Allen, and Sales and Marketing Manager, Katie Scott, took part in the Helvellyn Triathlon in September. Additional funds were raised through a special charity golf day held at Rockliffe Hall in October.. deterMND aims to raise awareness of Motor Neurone Disease, and to raise funds for both the MND Association and MND research.

GENEROUS NIGHT >> More than £66,000 was raised at The Percy Hedley Foundation’s annual Mistletoe Ball. More than 300 guests enjoyed the Foundation’s annual fundraiser at Newcastle Marriott Gosforth Park, which was hosted by BBC Radio Newcastle’s Anna Foster. Money raised on the night will help Northern Counties School continue its pioneering work to help more disabled children and young people achieve their ambitions and lead full and active lives.The school, based in Jesmond, provides education for 90 children with a hearing impairment or visual impairment, profound and multiple learning disabilities or autism spectrum disorders.

DIARY DATES >> MARCH 10, 2018 St Oswald’s Hospice Roaring Twenties Ball, Hilton Hotel, Newcastle. email carolejacobs@stoswaldsuk.org or call 0191 285 0063 ext: 2125

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JET SET >> Just Travel Cover raised more than £3,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support at its first ever charity ball at Ramside Hall, Durham. The glitzy event was to recognise the hard work of staff and celebrate UK’s Best Travel Insurance Provider 2017 award.

Lady Elsie, John Reid (patient) Dr Alastair Greystoke (Senior Lecturer at Newcastle University and one of the Sir Bobby Robson Centre consultants running PROSPECT-NE), Sarah Leigh Nicholson (Laboratory Manager, Cellular Pathology), Steve Harper (Patron, SBR Foundation) and Alan Shearer (Patron, SBR Foundation)

BOOST >> A revolutionary new ‘personalised’ cancer treatment and research project is being funded by the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation in Newcastle. The PROSPECT-NE genome sequencing project will work with up to 800 cancer patients from across the North East and Cumbria over the next four years. It will help develop ‘personal’ cancer treatments, find out how cancer is impacting on patients’ health and determine in advance if side-effects are likely from treatment. Funded by an £892,000 contribution from the charity, the project is being delivered at the Royal Victoria Infirmary’s new state-of-the-art Newcastle Molecular Pathology Node Proximity Lab - an exciting partnership between Newcastle University and Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. Alan Shearer, a Patron of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, says: “One of the first questions I asked today was, would you be able to do this research without funds from the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation? And the answer was ‘no,’ so it’s all coming from Sir Bobby’s charity, which is just incredible.”

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It’s the little things we do that make a big difference

We cover: Personal care • Memory impairment and dementia • Sitting service Chemotherapy aftercare • Palliative care • Respite care Post-operative care • Cooking meals • Days out • Overnight care

Call us 01642 608070 or email hello@sallyandsarahcare.co.uk Please call us to join the team, we are recruiting now.

Your digital afterlife let us help you get it in order “I must put my affairs in order” ...is a common phrase which conjures up an image of that all important box, containing vital paperwork about one’s finances and personal affairs, all prepared safe and sound for loved ones to tend to if the unthinkable happens. However, with the dawn of the web, online service and accounts and social media platforms, people need to think about how to manage their affairs differently and above all digitally. It is the role of the executors appointed in a will to deal with any assets of the deceased. This covers the usual assets such as property and bank accounts etc; but how are executors to deal with online assets such as social media pages and photo libraries with the complexities of different logins and passwords that are only known to the deceased? Many online companies now have their own procedures on how an online/social media account can be dealt with on death. For instance, Facebook now offers its users a variety of options to allow you to have a digital online presence after death –known as ‘digital afterlife’. One of its newest features is a Legacy Contact Feature allowing its users to nominate a person to control a memorial page on death. Yet, the question remains how would your nearest and dearest know that you had considered this or even set this up? Most of us now manage our bank accounts online, paying bills and transferring funds from one account to another. You may have an account online that not even your family would be aware of and with no paper trail how are they to be dealt with on death? The list of online assets that we manage on a daily basis is endless. With this in mind, Tilly Bailey & Irvine have taken the initiative to provide you with a simple and effective

tool to put your digital affairs in order ‘My Digital Assets Keepsake’ which you can download from our website – www.tbilaw.co.uk/site/family-matters/ wills-probate-solicitors/21st-century-probate/ This free, helpful, straightforward tool will allow you to keep a record not just of online assets and accounts with logins and passwords but also just as importantly those more personal wishes in relation to social media sites and lasting memories. You can also give special instructions to your executor regarding how you would wish for certain online assets to be dealt with. Nicola Dalzell is a Probate lawyer specialising in wills, trusts, estate planning and inheritance tax at Tilly Bailey & Irvine Law Firm’s Stockton office.

Tilly Bailey & Irvine Law Firm Castle House, 11 Bridge Road, Stockton on Tees TS18 3AD Tel: 0800 052 6824 www.tbilaw.co.uk Find us on Twitter @tbilaw

T: 0800 0158960 W: www.tbilaw.co.uk

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FINE TUNING

Taking it slo w ly The solitary craft of guitar-making is exacting and precise. Sam McLaren, son of ex Middlesbrough, NUFC and England manager Steve, tells Mike McGeary about the tools of his rare trade As his neighbours set out on their dreary commute, Sam McClaren has already been busy in his workshop for an hour, putting the finishing touches to a stunningly beautiful classical guitar that will soon become its new owner’s pride and joy. At just 25, Sam is carving out a glowing reputation as one of the country’s most talented young luthiers, with a long list of satisfied customers, both amateur and professional. For the son of former Middlesbrough, Newcastle United and England manager Steve, designing and constructing guitars is clearly a labour of love and his enthusiasm for his vocation is infectious. “This is my work and it’s my hobby as well,” beams Sam. “Even on my day off I’m thinking about guitars and daydreaming about being back in the workshop.

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“This week’s it’s been six o’clock starts because I’m in the final stages of a guitar. I need to come in early so I can give it as many coats of varnish as possible during the day. I love working late in the evening as well because there’s complete silence in here.” Sam began having classical guitar lessons above a Manchester music shop at the age of eight, while his dad was assistant manager to Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United. His skills were nurtured at Yarm School after the family relocated to Teesside when Steve became Boro boss, and it was there that he also developed an interest in woodwork. “I started using the wood-turning lathe in the Design Technology department in the senior school and picked up joinery and carving skills,” he says. “The teachers were a big influence and helped push me towards the craft side

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FINE TUNING

rather than academic work, which I was never brilliant at. I got good A-level results but I didn’t enjoy lessons that involved sitting down and writing. That’s not me at all. I was always more hands-on and have to be moving about, on my feet and constantly working – I’m a bit like Dad in that way.” When his two great passions of music and woodwork dovetailed, it proved to be a major turning point in Sam’s life. “Whenever I had a free period I’d be on the lathe,” says Sam. “Then one day my teacher showed me a guitar he’d made and another he was working on. I’d been playing for so long that I already knew all the parts and I was fascinated to learn how it was put together.” After that Sam spent time with leading luthiers and attended courses in Devon and Nottingham that fanned the flames of his new passion. After completing further training, he took the plunge and started up on his own. His workshop above the garage outside the family home now contains everything he

needs to create musical instruments of such precision and quality that they compare favourably with the very best in the world. There are humidifiers and dehumidifier to maintain the exact conditions his work requires, especially during the delicate gluing process – “If the humidity isn’t within the right range I won’t glue because the joint will crack,” he says. He also spends much of his time vacuuming, making sure there are no specks of dust that would blemish the painstakingly applied layers of varnish on his instruments. “Everything you see on the guitar is made by me,” he says. “I even design the rosette detail around the sound hole and the patterns on the veneers. The only thing I buy in is the tuners and the case. “People sometimes look at my age and assume I won’t know much, but in fact I know more than most. Everything I do on the guitar I do because I’ve learned that it’s the right way to do it. I like people meeting me because then they see that I know what I’m talking about.”

Not surprisingly, these painstakingly handcrafted instruments come with premium prices, starting at around £3,000, with upgrades possible if more expensive woods are chosen. Each instrument is tailored to the customer’s needs, with the size and body shape designed for comfort and woods carefully selected to produce the required tone. “A customer might ask for ebony back and sides and that’s when the price increases, but I don’t make any more money on the more expensive woods, I just add on what I paid.” With such long hours involved, Sam’s chosen path is by no means an easy option, but it is immensely satisfying. And there are other benefits. For a start, his walk to the workshop is far less stressful than the daily journey faced by those commuters. “When I was living at home it was great to roll out of bed in the morning and into the workshop,” he says. “It’s the perfect space because there’s so much sunlight and air coming through, which I need.

“We were having the garage built and I was looking for my own workshop and couldn’t find anything suitable, but this was ideal.” Music has always been important in the McClaren household, but most of the family are avid listeners rather than players, if you’ll pardon the football pun. “Dad has a big collection of blues CDs but I have to choose some good music for him to listen to because he would be a nightmare otherwise!” Sam laughs. “For his birthday I bought us tickets to see Imelda May at the Sage. I’m not really a fan of chart music, I prefer the weird and wonderful and I listen to lots of singersongwriter and folk music. “My parents are just happy if I’m happy and if I’m working hard and trying to do it, I know they’ll try to support me.” “I was never very good at football, I never really got into it – but I quite like being a little bit different anyway!” Visit www.mcclarenguitars.co.uk for more information about Sam’s creations.

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JAN/FEB18

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LUXE LOVES Funky floors Interiors to cheer are what 2018 is all about. Get happy with this bold rug made from 100% New Zealand wool. Available in five sizes. Prices from £199 to £859. Shop in-store at Funky Rug Shop, Stockton. www.mailorderrugs.co.uk

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JAN/FEB18

SPICE OF LIFE

LIVING IT UP with Varsha Sehgal Indulgence in Morocco - from souks to the skies Thrilled by This year the British Asian Trust celebrated a decade of supporting the disadvantaged across South Asia and to mark the occasion its founder, HRH The Prince of Wales is hosting a dinner at Buckingham Palace in February. As a supporter of the charity and someone with deep ties to the region, I am very proud of my association with the Trust. I have had the privilege of meeting and sharing a conversation with HRH Prince Charles on a few occasions but to discover that I am on his guest list of a very select group of invitees has to be the biggest thrill of them all! TRAVELLED TO >> Once the summer holidays are done and a new academic year has begun it seems our lives quickly spiral towards months ridden with darkness and harsh weather with only the shine of a Christmas bauble or two to look forward to. Since much of Europe is plunged into similar conditions, for anyone searching sunnier options not too far from home Marrakech could be the answer. Temperatures in the mid-twenties even in November and an intangible charm of the old world make it a very attractive destination indeed. Recently I was in Morocco and despite previous visits, I found myself drawn to old haunts which continue to be an integral part of the city.

Stay La Mamounia - a favourite of Churchill’s, this hotel is rumoured to be one of the top six palaces in the world. There’s a sense of grandeur from the moment you walk into lavish gardens that perfume the air. The zellige tilework, crystal chandeliers, plush velvets, large sculptures and intricacies of the carved cedarwood make it unforgettable. The clientele here is hip, the atmosphere lively and with sumptuous suites, a top-notch pool and spa and four signature restaurants and bars to boot, La Mamounia is cream of the hospitality crop. Royal Mansur - I have yet to come across a hotel that eclipses the beauty and elegance of the Royal Mansur. An absolute masterpiece of craftsmanship, this hotel gives a sense of the rich cultural and architectural heritage of Morocco. Selman Marrakech - a huge draw is their stables which house some of the finest Arabian thoroughbreds, this hotel runs its own private stud farm in its grounds. A terracotta palace of dreams brought to life with painstaking obsession for detail. Dine Day La Villa des Orangers - resonant of Morocco’s French colonial past, this restaurant oozes understated elegance and culinary excellence. La Maison Arabe - at the heart of the medina, this restaurant serves some of the best Moroccan fare and is no stranger to

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big names including the likes of Jackie Kennedy. Terrase des epices - take time out to escape the mayhem of the souk and relax in the intimate alcoves while sampling a mix of Moroccan and international cuisines. Night Le Salama Marrakech - a great place to stop for a drink at sundown to watch the souk and streets come alive and soak in the sights, sounds and smells of Morocco from its terrace. Bo Zin - the lure here isn't the food but the vibrant vibe that reaches a crescendo well after 2am! Le Palace - the food though excellent, is overshadowed by an overwhelming sense of being swept into the 1920’s with its signature style, glamour and decadence. A private club experience with all the trappings of excess. Comptoir Darna - an institution in Marrakech and arguably the best party in the city, an evening at the Comptoir begins with dinner at 10pm extending to cocktails and music in the club on the floor above. Wild performers, international DJs and talented mixologists come together to create a thoroughly enjoyable evening! Palais Jad Mahal - colourful and uninhibited, this place is a big part of the social scene in Hivernage and famous for its themed cabarets and live band.

Sights Hiring a guide is surprisingly inexpensive in Marrakech and I would highly recommend exploring the city with one as it is very easy to get lost in the alleyways and endless souks. Ben Youssef Madrasa - originally an Islamic college, today it is a historical site and the largest madrasa in all of Morocco. Bahia Palace - home to the grand wazir in the 19th century, this palace is a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture with rooms built for its inhabitants around an enormous courtyard. Jardin Majorelle - lovingly created by Jacques Majorelle and devotedly cherished by Yves Saint Laurent, this is a tranquil botanical garden in intense primary colours and perhaps the most visited site in Morocco. Berber Market/Souk - stripped back to the bare basics, this is a slightly daunting and yet exhilarating brush with reality. Vendors vying for the customer’s attention, enticing them with rich silks, pungent spices and rare handicraft; this is the pulsating heart of Moroccan life.

Excursions Kasbah Tamadot/Atlas Mountains - only a short fifty minutes drive outside of the city finds you amongst the majestic Atlas Mountains. Trekking in the fresh mountain air is a far cry from the hedonism of the city below and the Kasbah Tamadot is the best excuse to visit. Tasted Back in Newcastle and perhaps the most unassuming of restaurants in the city, The Patricia, recently celebrated its first anniversary. Headed up by chef and owner Nick Grieves who named the establishment lovingly after his grandmother, the restaurant has an informal approach to dining. Framed vintage wine art prints add interest to the moody interiors and Frank Sinatra crooning “Luck Be a Lady Tonight” amplifies the feel of a rustic joint of yesteryear. Attentive staff, a creative menu with sublime twists and a comprehensive wine list make for a perfect dining experience. The Madeira jelly and toasted brioche were exquisite embellishments to the luxurious chicken liver pate which was of a perfect consistency and richness. The Waterkloof 2012 (Stellenbosch) hit perfect notes with my main course of rare breed pork belly, Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, gravy and vegetables. Chocolate mousse and salted caramel dessert were a divine end to a thoroughly enjoyable meal one I plan to repeat very soon. Tempted by Season after season Moncler runs with its staple collections adding a few new styles produced in limited numbers and never to be repeated. The Lirio is a shearling-trimmed, metallic down jacket from the brand’s “Moonray” collection with obvious space age influence and a definitive nod to aviator styling. The jacket is versatile on and off the slopes and with ski season in full swing, it is right at the very top of my temptation list! Tried On With a philosophy to make good of nature’s gifts and a huge emphasis on sustainability, Trinitae deliver luxurious skincare products with a view to heal and nourish naturally. Created in Jordan, the products are paraben-free and made by utilising resources like the salts and minerals from the Dead Sea and abundant orchard fruits. The Pomegranate Shea Butter is rich and perfect for dry winter skin while the Dead Sea Mud Facial Mask is a wonderful treat for the face. Thinking about Over the Christmas holidays I travelled to India, Brazil and Argentina and in the next four weeks I will be visiting Costa Rica, Verbier and Courchevel which collectively equates to over 36,000 miles in just two months. I dread to think what my annual carbon footprint averages. Which brings me to a very interesting person I met recently at a business forum, Stephen Prior of Forest Carbon. His company is a national leader in voluntary carbon woodland creation and has planted more than 5.5million new trees in the UK since 2006. He enlightened me on how his work benefits not only society and the environment in general but also businesses. It was fascinating and thought-provoking, something I think we should all consider as individuals or industry.

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The Suite Life... Retreat, escape and relax in the luxurious comforts of Seaham Hall. Retreat to your deluxe suite and dine on the finest food in the North East. You may even have time to take a dip in our award winning spa during your stay. Seaham Hall is just a short drive from the City of Durham and sits on a striking cliff top overlooking the Durham Heritage Coastline. Sounds pretty good, doesn’t it? Suites from £205 based on two people sharing.

Seaham Hall Hotel, Lord Byron’s Walk, County Durham, Sr7 7Ag Tel: 0191 516 1400 Email: reservations@Seaham-Hall.com www.seahamhall.co.uk

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LOVE LINGERIE

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LOVE LINGERIE

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AWARD WINNING HAIRDRESSING

HAPPY NEW YOU Darlington 01325 468 994

Gosforth 0191 217 0217

Jesmond 0191 281 6714

Ponteland 01661 821 004

Wynyard 01740 644 690

www.hookerandyoung.co.uk Facebook/hooker&young Twitter @hookerandyoung JAN/FEB18

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0/10/2016 10:36 Page 1

0/10/2016 10:36 Page 1 18ct gold ring, 0.72ct ruby with diamonds 18ct gold ring, 0.72ct ruby with diamonds

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Silver and 9ct gold Seed Pod pendant

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AWAY DAYS

STYLE SWIPE

Your SS18 check list – a season inspired by English country houses, summer garden parties and luxe rural retreats

Championed by some of SS18’s most influential designers, the humble check or tartan jacket is back at the top of every dedicated fashion follower’s wish list. From Miu Miu and Mulberry to Paul Smith and Prada the new season is packed with this countrified piece. You can get your hands on the perfect check by shopping Paul Smith’s stunning new collection, look out for his gorgeous Houndstooth Blazer (£395). To embrace the spring in style I’ve paired this beautiful jacket with a gorgeous Sportmax Code chunky knit (£250): stripes of bold red and navy blue play with the concept of Ireland’s famous off-white Aran knit, another countryside staple. I’ve added J Brand’s cropped denim Maude jean (£230) with a frayed hem to create a practical and really easy to throw on look. Finally, to complete the outfit, I’ve added oh-so-English accessories by Russell & Bromley (Oxblood Calf Boot £235) and Mulberry (Oxblood Mini Bayswater Backpack £695). All you need now is a relaxing day in the countryside, and perhaps a gin and tonic or two at a picturesque pub! Catherine Newton is Head of Womenswear at Fenwick Newcastle.

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

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Online

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THE SPA

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LUXE LIFE

DR SOPHIE CASSIDY Dr Sophie Cassidy is a research associate and clinical exercise physiologist at Newcastle Medical School where she specialises in work with Type 2 Diabetes patients. Most recently she was part of the team advising the maker of BBC TV’s How to Stay Young series which was partly recorded at the medical school. She showed how changes to diet and exercise can have a huge and lasting effect on patients – and benefit the whole population. Sophie, 28, lives in Newcastle. LUXE PEOPLE >> Family and friends are an obvious choice – my parents are inspiring – my dad is a GP and definitely into ageing well! LUXE PLACES >> For a weekend > Something active. I love the Lake District, especially Ambleside. I’d go walking and running. For a long holiday > A cycling tour. I am currently organising one in the Pyrenees. For a treat > A weekend in London, seeing friends, taking in a show.

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LUXE RELAX >> Best food > Persian food – I love Taste of Persia. I also love Thai food. I was in Sydney for a while and we lived near great Thai restaurants. Best wine > I don’t drink wine but I like a glass of port at Christmas or a Baileys. Favourite restaurant > I love Harissa in Sandyford – great flatbreads. And Café 21, you can’t beat it. Perfect weekend > Hiring a cottage somewhere remote with friends. Go on a massive hike with a wild swim then get back to a delicious meal and light a fire outside. Dancing and games would also be part of it. If I had to stay local, then brunch and a hockey match with the girls from JPC hockey club is always a treat. Downtime means > Coffee, fresh air, and a book. Best telly > Match of the Day, especially with a NUFC win. Best book > The Bible is my book. And any of CS Lewis’ works. Best sounds > Currently enjoying the Imagine Dragons album, Stevie Wonder, Ed Sheeran. I love dancing to funk and soul.

LUXE SHOP >> Best shopping city > Edinburgh, Favourite shop > Zara or Mango Best buy > My down feather jacket from Montane, great quality and so warm. LUXE PARTY >> A memorable night out > One with a live band, loads of classics and lots of dancing. Perfect party > As above. With lots of friends and even some games. Best dress > A fitted blue velvet dress that I feel lovely in – and have now worn for too many weddings. Dinner date > My boyfriend – he is in Australia so a surprise dinner at Sydney Opera bar would work nicely! YOUR LUXE THING IN LIFE >> The privilege of being able to work with people; seeing their potential and helping them to get to that place. See Sophie’s top tips for staying healthy in our Lifeguide supplement.

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ALL THE INGREDIENTS FOR YOUR PERFECT KITCHEN “Luxurious hand-crafted kitchens designed with you in mind.”

www.oakstonedesigns.co.uk

01325 366 948

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TOUSLE TIME

Let loose for

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Happy New Year everyone, we hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and are looking forward to a happy and healthy 2018. Who’s made New Year resolutions? It always seems like the perfect time to start anew, make those all important changes and do those things that you’ve been talking about for months but never got round to. I think you’ve got to strike while the iron’s hot as the weeks very quickly turn into months and you end up not bothering. So whether it’s dropping a dress size, joining a gym, getting in touch with an old friend or indeed giving yourself a new year make-over, I’d say there’s no time like the present. That’s where we come in! We can make you gorgeous for 2018! Given time everything goes full circle and we’ve seen this in fashion throughout the past few seasons with designers taking strong influence from the Seventies but with a whole new vibe to make it super cool. This gorgeous textured crop definitely has that retro feel about it with soft feathery edges and loads of movement for a real undone look. Quite often women shy away from shorter cuts fearing that they won’t look feminine so instead they opt for the safer option of a longer style. This cut is ultra feminine and transcends many ages, as it’s an undone loose look that is super-easy to recreate at home. With the right products textured styles are easy to achieve and maintain on a daily basis. Here we’ve used Maximista volume spray from Oribe on towel dried hair before finger drying the style into place, afterwards also from Oribe we’ve used dry texture spray to get maximum texture and hold without making the hair look overloaded with product to give a soft and beautiful result. So be inspired and get yourself a new look for 2018….. Happy New You. Michael Young and Gary Hooker run Hooker & Young, with five salons regionwide. www.hookerandyoung.co.uk

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COSY UP IN OUR HOME AWAY FROM HOME. ESCAPE THE COLD AND ENTER A WORLD OF RELAXATION WITH OUR GREAT VALUE WINTER PACKAGES. WITH LOCALLY SOURCED CUISINE, ROARING FIRES AND BEAUTIFUL SURROUNDINGS OF NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTRYSIDE, THERE’S NO BETTER PLACE TO BE AT THIS TIME OF YEAR. WRAP UP WARM AND EXPLORE THE LOCAL ATTRACTIONS TO BUILD UP YOUR APPETITE BEFORE HEADING BACK FOR SEASONAL FAYRE IN THE DINING ROOM, TREAT YOURSELF TO A REJUVENATING SPA TREATMENT OR SIMPLY SIT BACK AND ENJOY THE STUNNING WINTER VIEWS FROM OUR RELAXING POOL AND JACUZZI. JANUARY BLUES PACKAGES FROM £125.00 PER ROOM PER NIGHT, INCLUDING BED & BREAKFAST. WINTER WARMER PACKAGES FROM £195.00 PER ROOM PER NIGHT, INCLUDING DINNER, BED & BREAKFAST.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON PACKAGES PLEASE VISIT WWW.WALWICKHALL.COM

HUMSHAUGH, HEXHAM, NORTHUMBERLAND. NE46 4BJ. T 01434 620 156 WWW.WALWICKHALL.COM JAN/FEB18

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CALM MOMENTS

Penhaligon's Malabah Eau de Parfum, £68.95 www.amazon.co.uk Nayeli Short Slip, Ivory and Silver, £595, www.agentprovocateur.com Many cultures across the world recognise the four primary ‘elements’ of air, fire, water and earth as fundamental energetic building blocks of life. Though the practical meaning of this idea differs across philosophies, what’s shared is the common belief and understanding that to live in balance with the elements in both our inner and outer worlds is to live a healthy and happy life. This wisdom is ancient, but it is accessible to us in the modern age. We can use the philosophy of the elements as a lens through which to look at our own wellness habits in a tangible way. This helps us to connect more with what we can do to feel truly healthy and content. There is no better time to consider this than winter – when life is stripped back and more simple, we can see more of its natural form. We also have the space and time we need to make more conscious, nourishing and sustainable choices. Here is some insight in to what each of the elements stands for, why that matters and what we can begin do at a simple practical level to bring ourselves more in to balance with them and so more into balance with ourselves. Air is associated with love, freedom, and openness. It is related to the heart chakra, so any yoga poses that open the chest support better alignment with air. Try cobra, cat/cow and bridge pose. Breathing well of course also connects us better with the element of air. Structured breath techniques are a useful tool for this; consider techniques such as the 4-7-8 or ‘relaxing breath’ technique and heart-centred breathing. Fire in balance fuels passion, confidence, willpower and transformation. In yoga try a sun salutation sequence and plank pose. When it’s cold, eat warming spices like ginger, cinnamon and cumin and vegetables like parsnip, leek and onion (when it’s warm, the opposite applies - eat cooling foods because fire over stimulated can lead us to feel angry or aggressive). Catch the sunrise or sunset where possible and get as much sunlight as you can.

Mulberry Small Amberley Satchel, Oxblood, Small Classic Grain, £595, in store at Fenwick

Emma Bridgewater Pink Hearts Melamine Plate, £8.98, www.emmabridgewater.co.uk

All is Love, Silk Blouse, £530, www.stellamccartney.com All is Love, Silk Trousers, £495, www.stellamccartney.com

Charlotte Tilbury Hel’s Bells, £24, www.charlottetilbury.com Velvet Rose & Oud Jo Malone Home Candle, 200g, £45, in store at Fenwick or online jomalone.co.uk

Water nourishes us – when we are in tune with it we are calm, creative and more in connection with ourselves and others. In yoga, poses that open the pelvis help, such as pigeon pose and low lunges. Take baths (ideally with some Epsom salt added for an added detox), wash your hands when leaving places and take a swim - these are all useful ‘water’ practices, good for the body and for the mind. Also remember to stay hydrated – this is critical for wellness and overall balance. When we’re in balance with Earth, we feel grounded, safe and strong. Child’s pose, warrior I pose and tree pose are excellent yoga poses that ‘earth’ us. Eat food that has been grown in the ground, such as root vegetables, sweet potatoes and squash. Also eat foods rich in minerals (such as sea salt), leafy greens, or nuts. Lastly, don’t forget my favourite grounding practice – walking in nature (ideally barefoot though I couldn’t recommend that at this time of year!) I’d love to hear how you get on with using these practices to bring balance back in to your life – you can email me at Laura@spacewith-in.com if you’d like to share!

OPI Love OPI 10 Piece Mini Nail Lacquer Gift Set, £30.50, in store at John Lewis or online www.opiuk.com

Follow Laura on social media or get in touch for one-to-one coaching sessions and group retreats. @space_with_in

@space.with_i

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@spacewithindevelopment

Apple Watch Series 3, from £329, www.apple.com

Minipresso Portable Espresso Machine, £49.99, www.amazon.co.uk

JAN/FEB18

LOVE THIS Warner Edwards Distillery Victoria's Rhubarb Gin, £38.oo, www.waitrose.com

Brown Jumper with black heart, Iphoria, £272, www.iphoria.com Emma Bridgewater True Love & Roses Body Lotion, £10, www.emmabridgewater.co.uk

Gabrielle Chanel EDP, 50ml, £79, in store at Fenwick or online www.chanel.com

Happy Socks Valentines Gift Box, £22, www.happysocks.com online or in store at Fenwick

FitBit Alta HR Fitness Wristband, £83, www.amazon.co.uk

DIOR Sauvage EDT, 100ml, by Christian Dior, £69.50, www.dior.com Paul Smith Gauge Collection Watch, £189, www.johnlewis.co.uk

The Dalmore Cigar Malt Reserve Whisky, £71.50, www.amazon.co.uk Savanna Beard Brush & Comb Set, £12.99, www.amazon.co.uk

Mulberry Heritage Messenger Bag, Black Grain Natural Leather, £895, www.mulberry.com iPad Pro 12.9 inch, Rose Gold, Silver, Gold & Space Grey £769, apple.com

JAN/FEB18

English Laundry Windsor Pour Homme Eau de Parfum, 100ml, £59.10, www.amazon.co.uk

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FACING UP

MOUTH MATTERS

PERSONAL-EYES

WITH ONKAR DHANOYA

BRUSH UP ON YOUR DENTAL HEALTHCARE IN 2018 >> Now that the festive season is over, January is the perfect time of year to make a fresh start with your dental healthcare. Did you know that a healthy smile is the very first thing that people notice when they meet somebody new? With this in mind, it’s just as important to adopt a good dental care routine as it is to exercise regularly and to eat a nutritious diet. As dentists, we see your mouth as being a window to your overall state of health, and we find that patients who step up their efforts to look after their teeth and gums also start to think more carefully about how they’re treating the rest of their body. If you work to improve your standard of dental health, you’ll soon see that your whole body will benefit from your choices. For example, if you cut down on your sugar intake, with the aim of protecting your teeth from decay, then you’ll also prevent blood sugar spikes, boost your energy levels, see an improvement in your skin, sleep better, and most likely lose weight. If you’d like to make a fresh start with us in 2018, we’ll conduct a comprehensive dental assessment, which includes: • • • • • • • •

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

Onkar Dhanoya is clinical lead and principal dentist at Honour Health, providing NHS and private dental care and skin treatments at three practices across the North East - Jesmond, Stanley and Ponteland. Onkar, who has more than 30 years of dentistry experience, sits on the board of the Faculty of General Dental Practice and holds a fellowship from the Royal College of Surgeons (London).

Flutter your lashes with Eyeko’s fabulous new personalised mascara service. Match your lashes with with the perfect formula and the ultimate brush that will take your definition to new heights. With over 100 combinations you’ll find the perfect flick fix. £30 at www.bespokemascara.com

SOAK UP

If your skin is feeling dull or dry this month restore some hydration with Charlotte Tilbury Instant Magic Facial Dry Sheet Mask. With up to three uses you can pop it on every time you need a little brightness boost. Soak your skin in fresh niacinamide, oils and plant extracts and feel refreshed in just 15 minutes. The perfect spa pick me up without leaving the house. £18 from John Lewis or www.charlottetilbury.com

beauty:update Chloé Laing offers a helping hand to refresh, revitalise and renew your way into the New Year

After we complete your assessment, we’ll provide you with detailed advice based on your diet, oral hygiene routine, lifestyle, health status and requirements. If you join our Honour Health Club, you’ll receive at least two Dental Health Assessments each year, and two Honour Diamond Airflow hygiene treatments each year, as well as the flexibility of Saturday and weekday evening appointments, worldwide dental insurance, up to 20% off treatments, and much more. So, why not start 2018 off in the right way by putting a healthy smile at the top of your list of New Year’s resolutions! Book your appointment online at www.honourhealth.co.uk or call your chosen practice below:

Honour Health Jesmond Tel: 0191 281 3913 Email: jesmond@honourhealth.co.uk Honour Health Ponteland Tel: 01661 821 412 Email: ponteland@honourhealth.co.uk

www.honourhealth.co.uk

Honour Health Stanley Tel: 01207 232 725 Email: stanley@honourhealth.co.uk

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>> REFRESH We love Pramasana Scalp Care from Aveda that will give your scalp the makeover it needs. The unstoppable Exfoliating Scalp Brush (£16.50) loosens up the impurities and exfoliates, the Cleanse Pramasana Purifying Scalp Cleanser (£23.50) refreshes your head for a super smooth scalp foundation. Finish off and nourish with Pramasana Protective Scalp Concentrate £35 for a protective barrier against pollution and other free radicals. The perfect trio to get your head right and ready for the New Year. www.aveda.co.uk

JAN/FEB18

FACING UP

<< SKIN DETOX Erase the impurities in your skin after all that festive fun with OSKIA revitalising CityLIfe Detox Mask. The mask is detoxifying, calming and 100% natural, a unique peel-off mask which neutralises free radicals and environmental impurities, leaving skin hydrated, plumped and free from the pollutants that can accelerate ageing. Packed full of antioxidants the mask quells irritation and speeds up skin recovery. The perfect way to freshen up your face. £64, for four masks available from Space NK or online at www.oskiaskincare.com

<< SMOOTH ON The brand on everyones lips this season INGLOT introduce INGLOT LAB soothing facial oils. Every bottle contains a combination of tsubaki, cottonseed, jojoba and rosemary oils, combined with ingredients to individualise the offering and meet all your skincare needs. Pick between Sunrise Drop Face Oil (£21), Spotlight Drop Face Oil (£21) and Dream Drop Face Oil (£24) to restore hydration and shine morning and night. On counter or www.inglotuk.com

HYDRATE

We’re swooning over Jo Malone London’s super silky Hand Cream Trio (£44) that will have your palms polished to perfection. With our favourite scents Tantalising Lime Basil & Mandarin, sensual Peony & Blush Suede and luscious English Pear & Freesia. Lightweight and nourishing with with apricot kernel oil to soak into your skin. Layer up your lips with Jo Malone London English Mint & Ginger Lip Care (£20). An unstoppable combination of mint and ginger that is the perfect fresh and spicy lip awakening kit for him and for her. A sensational combination of moringa butter, rose flower wax and kukui seed oil that will make chapped lips a problem of the past. On counter or www.jomalone.co.uk

EXTRA HOURS

Nars Soft Matte Complete Concealer gives back those extra hours in bed with their highest coverage concealer to date. Oil free and flawless coverage to keep dark circles at bay and a fresh natural glow. The skin-smoothing peptides work to minimise fine lines, while spherical powders blur away imperfections. Fresh faces all round with 16 shades to choose from, £24, www.narscosmetics.co.uk

<< NATURAL BEAUTY Achieve effortlessly gorgeous waves at home with Schwarzkopf OSiS+ Made To Be Real Collection. For a day to day gritty edge smooth try OSiS+ Sand Clay (£10.95) or for a windswept wave effect run through OSiS+ Wind Touch (£13.50). Feel fresh with a frame of naturally fabulous hair. www.schwarzkopf.co.uk

>> BROW BUSINESS

Perfect your arches with ICONIC London Sculpt & Boost Eyebrow Cushion. ICONIC’s newest addition will give your brows a makeover with fuller, more defined and richer textures. The smudge-proof pallets are two-shade liquid brow compact and come in three shades which create effortlessly fuller-looking brows all day long, £26.99, www.iconiclondoninc.com

GET THAT GLOW

Renew your skin with KORRES silky smooth Black Pine 3D Sculpting, Firming & Lifting Skincare Collection. Packed with ElastiLift-3D which ] to re-build what they call ‘facial architecture’, renew elasticity, firmness, resilience, texture and contour, while fighting wrinkles. The collection includes a dedicated Face Serum (£39), two Day Creams - one for dry skin and another for normal combination skin (£39), a Night Cream (£39) and Eye Cream (£36) get that youthful glow in store at M&S or online www.marksandspencers.com

JAN/FEB18

SMOOTH ON

Tom Ford’s Black Orchid Hair Mist is ramping up the fragrance game. Spritz luxury and elegance all over your hair for a richly scented Black Orchid finish. Your locks will be ready to take on the winter breeze with a smoothing formula that leaves hair with a soft luminous sheen. Double vup UVA and UVB filters to protect from the sun. Fab from desk to date. £50, on counter or www.tomford.com

NARS TAKES NEWCASTLE

NARS fans with Christmas money - or one or two Fenwick gift cards - on their hands will no doubt be overjoyed with the news of the department store’s brand new counter - now open in its glossy Beauty Hall. Sleek and spacious, it’s more like a mini boutique; a place to enjoy mini makeovers and master makeup lessons, and get your hands on the brand’s latest launches, as well as all of its award-winning, cult products. With a number of inspiring complimentary services on offer, now’s the time to stop by - whether you’re in the mood to freshen up your look for the new year, revamp your makeup bag, or look your best ahead of gettogethers, gatherings or parties. The counter’s experts are on hand to give you all the tricks and tips - from foundation-picking and contouring lessons, to step-by-step tutorials towards this season’s must-try eye-looks - they’ve picked up from some of the brand’s leading artists, ambassadors and founder, François Nars. The french makeup artist and photographer created NARS Cosmetics back in 1994 with just 12 (now iconic) lipsticks. Since then, it’s blossomed into a luxury, world-renowned cosmetics and skincare brand, loved for its fashionforward, no-rules approach to beauty.

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RELAX...

Treating yourself to a place at one of The Wellness Tree Retreat’s luxurious weekend escapes is a soothing treat for the mind, body and soul, as Jessica Laing discovers…

W E L L When was the last time you truly switched off? Turned your phone off for days without feeling like you’ve had your right hand chopped off? Shunned life’s daily demands in favour of massages, lie-ins, nail-painting and jigsaws? Silenced the endless chatter in your head - so much so, that restful sleep feels like the easiest thing to achieve? If you’re anything like me, the answer is probably ‘I can’t remember’ - or possibly ‘never’. Before nabbing a spot on one of The Wellness Tree Retreat’s peaceful breaks, the thought of surrendering to two days of doing next to nothing in a fluffy robe - and with limited WiFi access - I must, admit,

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R E S T E D

left me feeling a tad uncomfortable. Don’t get me wrong - I’m all for carving time out of your week for a bit of me-time. A face mask and a good book before bed, perhaps. Time spent in the kitchen preparing a slow-cooked feast for two. But, for me, that’s as far as it tends to go. I am, after all, a bit of a busy-body. Lying in feels like a waste of precious time - the same goes for afternoons spent Netflix binging on the sofa. My mind is never quiet, either. I’m always looking ahead to tomorrow, next week, next month and so on. I think quickly, I move quickly, I even speak quickly (or so I’m told). Slowing down and ‘being in the moment’

has always been a hard task. Fortunately for me, the folk behind The Wellness Tree Retreat know just how to remedy this and, after a weekend in their care, I’m happy to report that I’ve never felt less ‘wired’ in all my life - and it was wonderful. So, what are the retreats all about? Well, think of them as wellbeing bootcamp - but without the barking orders, sweatiness or sore muscles (unless you over-stretch during your yoga session, that is). Bagging a spot means you’re given a chance to really work on what matters - your own wants and needs - for two whole days. Even if all that means is not really chatting to anyone other than your best pal (I advise booking up with a friend - it’s a perfect chance to catch up and reconnect), indulging in a massage, having someone else cook for you, or time to enjoy a bath in peace. Hosted by Emma Pratt and her mother, Angela, the bespoke, women-only programmes offer guests a mix of chill-out time, spa treatments, freshly-prepared, wholesome food (prepared by an on-site chef ), rejuvenating morning walks and expertly-led yoga, mindfulness and relaxation workshops. All under one very good-looking roof, too. Ours was held at Irton Manor - a grand, five-bed holiday home, not far from Scarborough. Think pristine, five-star accommodation set in 35 acres of rustic, rural loveliness. Wander around the grounds and gardens and you’re unlikely to meet a soul - heaven if you’re on the hunt for headspace. Angela and Emma - both of whom are North East natives - are the perfect hosts. Non-fussy and non-pushy, the duo are on hand if you need anything, but will happily let you do your own thing, at your own pace, throughout your stay. Meditation not your thing? Feel free to skip it, they say. Don’t fancy yoga at 8am on a Sunday? Stay

in bed. But for those who do want to get involved, well, you’re welcomed with open arms. Angela, an accredited psychotherapist and registered counsellor, leads the way when it comes to the meditation and relaxation workshops (she also offers free one-to-one sessions to anyone who wants one during their stay), while Emma, a former teacher who recently swapped marking books for a working life dedicated to soothing others, is your go-to for anything else you may need. Think of her as the retreats’ warm and bubbly master of ceremony, gently guiding you through the days’ activities. For my chum and I, that meant arriving late Friday afternoon with a do-what-you-fancythemed night ahead of us. After being greeted with hugs from our hosts, we curled up in one of the manor’s snug lounges with cups of herbal tea, before being shown to our room - a large, sumptuous suite, overlooking tranquil gardens and fountains, with a swanky master en-suite. After unpacking and eyeing up our itineraries for the weekend (these are by no means strict - just a way of keeping you in the know of each day’s agenda), it was time for a pow-wow with Angela, Emma and the rest of the ladies. Groups are kept relatively small - 12 or so in total in our case - and everyone is encouraged to share a little bit about themselves and what they’re looking to get out of the experience, before being let loose to explore their surroundings and sitting down to dinner in the main dining room. The food here is nothing short of spectacular; dishes made with fresh, organic produce, locally-sourced where possible, by expert hands. Ellie, our dedicated chef for the weekend, did a mean job of creating a wholesome, good-for-you menu that satisfied all diets, whether vegetarian, gluten-free or dairy-free. Dinners included tandoori-scented cod and

JAN/FEB18

RELAX...

Being ‘in the moment’ was the aim of the game, taking time to stop, and touch base with our senses

cauliflower steaks with chickpea curry and Asian-inspired sesame chicken and sticky, soy-glazed aubergine. For lunch, Mediterranean-style salads and veggie goulash, and a mix of wild Alaskan smoked salmon, silky eggs, roasted mushrooms and juicy, hand-carved ham on rye for brekkie. Desserts were divine, refined sugar-free creations - real showstoppers. On this occasion, moreish toffee pudding with praline yogurt one night and thick wedges of caramelised pineapple and coconut cake, another. The former yacht chef, who now runs her own catering business, cooked up a storm from start to finish - and we often sat at the breakfast bar to watch her live in action and pick up some culinary tips. You also get to take away recipe cards, just in case you fancy having a go at whipping up some of the dishes at home. With satisfied tums, we took part in a relaxation workshop on night one, led by Angela, before laying our heads for the night. Sitting in a circle, we perched our bottoms on mountains of comfy pillows, closed our eyes, and listened as our resident coach delivered a peaceful reading, gently lulling us into a state of stillness the perfect before-bed ritual. Saturday was particularly dreamy. After stretching things out in an early morning yoga class with qualified and well-travelled yoga instructor, Jennie, and a spot of breakfast, we entered the world of mindfulness, with Angela as our guide. Some opted out, but what a little treat - in more ways than one - it was for those who chose to stick around. We were each handed a chocolate button and asked to study it for a while; feeling it in the palms of our hands and smelling its creamy aroma, before popping it in our mouths and allowing it to melt, noticing its texture changing and savouring its sweetness. Being ‘in the moment’ was the aim of the game and taking time to stop, touch base with our senses and actually appreciate our food, was a fun way to explore the notion of so-called ‘mindfulness’. Our afternoon was filled with all good things; lunch, nail-painting, swimming, blissful Indian head massage, coffee and cake, jigsaws and scrabble and strolls to the nearby ‘secret’ garden.

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Angela and Emma’s refreshing no-pressure approach means you’re free to do what you please between workshops - which we loved. We even snuck in an early evening nap (unheard of for us) and a bubble bath, before a candlelit meditation session around the indoor pool. The weekend came to a close with a delicious lie-in, a spot of brunchy goodness and a silent woodland walk, which everyone agreed to participate in. A chance to kick-start our Sunday, fill our lungs with fresh, country air and get our bodies moving once again after lots of (deserved) rest. Departing stirred up a mix of emotions - though all of them positive. Angela and Emma’s calmness washes over you and you somehow leave feeling like a new, sparkly, revitalised version of yourself - with fewer eye bags and more get-up-and-go. After undisturbed time to reconnect with yourself and what’s important to you, you feel mentally ready to take on whatever your daily life may throw your way - and with greater perspective. It’s the stuff money can’t buy. Due to the success of the retreats, Angela and Emma are branching out for 2018, bringing the best bits of The Wellness Tree Retreat directly to you, wherever you may be. Enjoy one-hour workshops (from mindfulness to meditation and yoga), workshops with added brunch or Afternoon Tea, or a full day retreat, during which you’ll be spoiled with fluffy robes and luxury pamper packs, an hour’s workshop, food, a 15-minute spa treatment and access to the women’s seven-day online detox programme - perfect for the New Year. Prices from £25-£79 per person, based on a minimum of 10 people. For more information, or to enquire about a booking, contact 07539338437 or visit www.the-wellnesstree.co.uk

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SCREEN STEAL

Right-hand man A new year brings a new series of the home-grown TV drama Vera to our screens. For Vera’s on-screen sidekick Kenny Doughty it meant the joys of damp beaches and arctic blasts in Northumberland – and he couldn’t be happier, as he tells Jessica Laing

It was in the depths of a freezing Kielder Forest when Kenny Doughty realised his love for the North East was true. “The rain was hammering down on us in sub-zero temperatures. It was absolutely miserable - and we were already a few crew members down because they’d all caught the flu. “And yet, somehow, every single crew member had a smile on their face. The banter among them was as strong as ever; everyone filled in and pulled together, no questions asked, no complaints. I just remember looking around and thinking to myself, ‘this is why I love these people!’” And this is perhaps one of the reasons why viewers – and not just in the North East - have got a soft spot for the moody, sometimes sullen sidekick of Vera. Now crime-loving telly-watchers can rejoice: Vera is back on our screens for 2018. The ITV detective drama, inspired by the gutsy novels of award-winning crime writer, Ann Cleeves (herself a Whitley Bay resident of course), has become something of a smash-hit since gracing our TVs back in 2011, loved for its puzzling storylines, edge-of-your-seat cliffhangers and unbeatable acting. But Kenny has also recently been in bold prime-time profile on our screens as registrar Rick Severs in the BBC TV hit series Love, Lies and Records. In this Kay Mellor-penned drama, Kenny’s character has a steamy moment with his boss on the office photocopier - which is captured on CCTV and used as blackmail material. What would Vera say? Kenny’s role as Detective Sergeant Aiden Healy in the North East drama has proved a springboard for his career and he enjoys playing alongside the ever-brilliant Brenda Blethyn’s Detective Chief Inspector Vera Stanhope – the striking backdrops of the North East landscapes playing their own dramatic role. The episodes follow Vera and her team as they face a series of captivating murder mysteries, with some of the region’s most breathtaking

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locations serving as the backdrop, from Newcastle’s iconic bridges and Wallsend’s shipyards, to the rugged cliffs of Craster, Corbridge’s quiet cobbles and Northumberland’s moody moorland. As a North East viewer, pointing out local landmarks and sneaky hometown backstreets from the comfort of your sofa only adds to the whodunnit appeal. Series eight sees Blethyn once again transform into the character of Vera - the no-non-sense, eagle-eyed, raincoat-wearing detective we’ve all come to know and love. Kenny’s DS Aiden Healy is now coming into his own as her surly right hand man. 42-year-old Kenny, who has enjoyed parts in big-name soaps, stage shows and series, such as Coronation Street and Stella has played the role since 2015, when he joined the cast replacing Geordie actor, David Leon. Bagging the job, he tells me, couldn’t have come at a better time. “Let’s just call it one of life’s serendipitous moments,” he laughs.

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SCREEN STEAL

“I was in the middle of doing The Full Monty in the West End at the time, which was getting great reviews - in fact, we’d just won an Olivier Award. But then, out of the blue, it was cancelled - and I suddenly found myself unemployed. “I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a bit worried. It was an unsettling time; I didn’t know what I was going to do, or what was going to happen - until the following week, when I got the call about Vera.” Opportunity had come knocking for the South Yorkshireborn actor. Already a huge fan of the show, he said yes to a meeting with its producers and directors and soon found himself reading for the part - with a certain someone standing by to make sure he was up for the challenge. “I wasn’t expecting Brenda to be there - but I turned up and there she was. Only then did I think, ‘right, ok, so this is really happening then!’ “We read lines and did a screen test together, but to be completely honest, about half way through, I got the feeling that it wasn’t going well. I don’t think it was my best work. Because I was already a big fan of the show, I felt a lot of pressure to nail it and prove my mettle - especially with Brenda standing right there in front of me. “You could tell everyone was a little cautious - even Brenda. They were serious about getting the casting right and I definitely felt a sense of having to ‘earn’ the role. “But my nerves got the better of me and I walked away absolutely convinced I’d messed it up. I remember calling my agent straight away and telling him ‘forget it - it isn’t going to happen’.” Fate, however, had other plans. Turns out, the show’s producers, directors and indeed leading lady were all taken by the actor’s talent - and the part of smouldering on-screen associate was his. It was, as Kenny puts it, a ‘careerchanging’ audition.

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“I was completely blown away,” he recalls. “I’m not under any illusions; I’m sure many people - many great actors - auditioned for the part. To have a nabbed a big role in such a successful show like Vera felt a bit like winning the lottery - and I couldn’t wait to get started.” Kenny joined the cast for series five, journeying to Newcastle to make his mark as DS Aiden Healy - a character he was determined to make his own. “In the beginning, two thoughts ran through my mind,” he tells me. “The first was, ‘wow, what a honour!’ but this was quickly followed by ‘ok, so now the real work begins - I can’t let anyone down.’ “It was important to me that I didn’t try to emulate what David had done - and did so well. They were big boots to fill and I wanted to carry the flag as best I could - but try and bring something new to the table at the same time.” Close talks with the show’s production team would result in Kenny creating a new kind of murder-solving sidekick; a cocky, leather-jacketed junior with a point to a prove and an edgy backstory that kept viewers on their toes throughout the series’ opening episode. “Aiden’s background is an interesting one - we soon learn he’s not exactly the butter-wouldn’t-melt kind of chap,” says Kenny. “He was transferred over to Newcastle from Yorkshire’s firearms department and has had his fair share of run-ins with the law; we soon discover he’s killed somebody and is battling with a complicated personal life. “For me, it was to great stuck in to playing a new kind of partner - someone with a bit of depth and who would keep the audience guessing. “He was a lot like me at the time too - murder aside, of course! There were definite parallels there; he was the new kid in town, new to the job and a little out of his comfort zone. “You watched him trying to find his feet, earn the respect of his new boss and prove his worth - which was exactly what I was doing. I saw a lot of myself in him; I feel like we kind of went on a little journey together, him and I, trying to find our place.” He wasn’t required to master North East accent. “It was a conscious decision of the writers not to give Aidan a Geordie accent,” he tells me. “Just as well really, because I think it’s one of the most difficult accents to master and I don’t think I would’ve been comfortable trying! “Again, it was just another way for me to identify with the character. They were like, ‘let’s make it known that this guy is a bit of an outsider - a fish out of water.’ “He didn’t speak the same, he didn’t dress the same and he didn’t act the same - but as fans of the show will know, he soon settles in and becomes a part of his North East work family. A bit like me really - the region is like a second home now and the whole cast feels like family. I’m hoping to get my honorary Geordie badge any day now.” Speaking of on-set family, talk soon turns to his relationship with Brenda - an “extraordinary talent”, he tells me, and one of his “closest friends”. A true double act on and off-screen, the pair can often be found mucking about behind-thescenes - even script-reading together over G&Ts during their time away from the cameras.

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SCREEN STEAL

l’ll always head to the coast - I absolutely love Tynemouth. I’ll visit Riley’s Fish Shack, or the Surf Cafe, with friends, and head up to St Mary’s Lighthouse

“We have a genuine bond,” he says. “The writers have acknowledged that - and I think it translates really well on to screen. “We have the same sense of humour - we’re always having a giggle between takes, singing, doing silly impressions and dancing about. One day, she attempted to teach me how to tap-dance in between takes - we were in stitches. “We socialise together, too, which is always fun. I stay in a flat at St Anns Quay in Newcastle during filming and Brenda lives close by, so we’ll hop in the car and go to work together, then maybe spend some time going over our lines down the local pub once we’ve clocked off for the day.” For many, working alongside an OBE, Golden Globe winner and BAFTA-scooper on a daily basis might feel like a daunting task, but for Kenny, it only makes the day job all the more exciting. “Working alongside Brenda is by far the best part of my job,” he enthuses. “And I think most of the actors and crew members would agree with me on that. “It’s not just about her talent. It’s her work ethic and her standards - she leads by example, raising the bar exceptionally high with every episode. The way she embodies Vera is just crazy to me - she becomes the character with every muscle in her body and can turn it on and off like a switch. She’ll often go off script and improvise if she feels like that will bring more to the scene - it’s amazing to watch. “I’ve been lucky enough to work with some really big names over the years, from Anthony Hopkins and Joseph Fiennes, to Geoffrey Rush and Cate Blanchett, but I can honestly say that Brenda is up there with the best of the best. She’s worldclass - a proper leading lady.” Kenny, his leading lady and around 85 cast and crew members (nearly all of whom are North East natives) spend up to five months filming every compelling series of the crime drama, with each two-hour episode taking around a month to film. Newcastle might be their base, but when it comes to shooting, they travel the breadth of the region, bringing the show’s characters to life in picturesque locations. For Kenny and the rest of the cast, it’s a chance to let loose and explore some of the region’s best - and most beautiful - bits, especially when the cameras stop rolling. “Having the opportunity to film in such breathtaking locations is an experience in itself, but I love getting out and about during our downtime,” he says.

“We get a break in-between each episode - about a week as the crew need to go into pre-production ahead of each one. During this time we all get together to hang out and see as much of the North East as possible.” “One of the first places I’ll always head to is the coast I absolutely love Tynemouth. I’ll visit Riley’s Fish Shack, or the Surf Cafe, with friends, and head up to St Mary’s Lighthouse in Whitley Bay, as well. The locals keep telling me to look out for the seals, but I’m yet to see one - I’m starting to think it’s all one big joke! “Blyth and Bamburgh are great places, too. In fact, I think the North East’s coastline is probably one of the UK’s best-kept, unspoilt secrets - part of me doesn’t want the rest of the country to discover it, it’s just so stunning.” Surfing, I discover, is next on Kenny’s list of things to do while living in the region, once filming comes to a halt. “I’m dying to get myself a board and hit the waves, but the producers won’t let me in case I get injured,” he laughs. “The same goes for go-karting. Bowling is fine though, I’m told, as is eating my bodyweight in Italian food - both of which I take great pleasure in doing during my time off. One of our local crew members makes these amazing homemade pizzas and he invites us all round for dinner. “He’s just one of the many friendly and hospitable people I’ve come to know while here in the North East. It’s true what they say about the Geordies - they’re some of the kindest, most down-to-earth, people you could ever hope to meet.

“There’s a real sense of community and camaraderie here that you don’t find in other parts of the country,” he continues. As series eight launches on to our screens, it’s back home to North London for Kenny - but he’ll be returning to his beloved North East come February for The Royal Television Society Awards. The gold standard of achievement in the television community, the annual ceremony shines a light on excellence across all genres of TV, recognising talented actors, presenters, writers, production teams and even programmes themselves. Last year’s event, held at Hilton Hotel Newcastle Gateshead, saw Vera win big, picking up the award for Best Drama, while Brenda received the gong - and a roaring standing ovation - for Best Performance as everyone’s favourite, no-frills detective. “I’m really looking forward to coming back up to Newcastle again for the awards,” says Kenny. “We always have a cracking night - there are often a few sore heads the next morning - and it’s great to see everyone again, all dolled up and suited and booted. No Wellingtons or thermals in sight! “We have some really big storylines and themes in series eight - there was lots for us to sink our teeth in to - from money laundering and dysfunctional families, to some really bloody murders. All good stuff! “Oh, and David Leon directs episode two, so viewers should look out for that,” he continues. “It was great to meet him. There was one point on-set when Brenda had both her old sidekick and her new partner by her side - her two boys! That was a cool moment. “I really hope the North East - and the rest of the country - get behind this next series - and the ones that will hopefully follow. I think the show’s a bit like a vintage wine - it just gets better and better as the years go by. And that’s partly to do with Brenda being as amazing as ever, of course, but also the writing and the passion and spirit of our Geordie crew - they never let the standards slip. “I have a feeling it’s going to be another big year for Vera - and I still can’t believe my luck that I get to be a part of it.” RTS Awards Dinner, February 24, 2018, Hilton NewcstleGateshead tickets: www.rts.org.uk

With thanks to Dukes Hotel in Mayfair for our photographic location. Image: Chris Auld

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LUXE LOVES Sassy spends If you’re heading for a luxey getaway this spring, pop your holiday spends into one of these feel-good Panama zip currency cases from the new Smythson spring range in popping papaya, Nile blue and silver £195-£215. www.smythson.com

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essentials

t yo urself Trea INDULGE

ISSUE 49 NOV/DEC17

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MIEST DESSE DREA RT ’S SP ON OT GI

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RUGBY ’S TOBY FLOOD. Cultural mus ts. FESTIV E LUXE. Social diary. GROOMING. Luxe l ocal. B OUTIQUE HOTEL B LISS. Party-ready fas hion. SAVVY WRITERS. Gourmet gifting. GENERATION AGELESS. Go-fas ter motors. SNOWY STAY S. Big names . LUXE.

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STAR TURN

WELCOME!

with Nina Robinson

>> Merino wool cable socks, complete with neon pompoms! £12.50 lalaandbean.com

A new year means cosying up in gloomy January and making plans for fun to come! Hello and happy New Year! I hope it’s not too late to say that, especially as I’m still deciding on my New Year’s resolutions! Grown-ups seem to come up with the same ideas every year but they never stick to them – more gym, less food, less wine … I want to aim for something more achievable and something more appealing! MORE DRAMA – that’s definitely one resolution I know I can work towards! I don’t just mean more sass (though that is likely) I mean actual, real drama. I took part in a Matilda Summer School last year and loved it so have now signed up for a weekend class and we are working towards a performance of Wicked. Wicked! Choose your resolutions as carefully as me, and 2018 will be awesome! Nina x

>> Design Your Own PJs, complete with fun neon Dylon pens and an inspiration guide sheet to help kids create patterns and designs, £34, www.lalaandbea.com

Baby it’s cold outside >> It’s cold, damp and dark. There’s nothing else for it – you need to snuggle up! The sparkle of Christmas might be gone but that’s even more reason to bring light and loveliness into January. I’m declaring January loungewear month for little luxes everywhere! Whether you plan a PJ day with your pet, camp out on the couch with a movie or organise a onesie party with your BFF, you can keep your fashion on point without leaving the lounge with these gorgeous garments.

>> Lala and Bea organic, mix and match loungewear, designed to be worn indoors or out! Wear tops with lounge pants or pair with your fave jeans or sweatpants! www.lalaandbean.com

The snuggletastic Sensory Onesie for children with autism >> >> White Company jersey jumpsuit, £34, www.thewhitecompany.com

>> Organic, woodland print PJs, £22, www.naturalbabyshower.co.uk

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I couldn’t write about loungewear and not mention the North East’s luxury onesie makers – The All-in-One Company. These smart sewing folk are always coming up with lovely ideas to help little and large luxes make the most of their lounge time. Their most recent invention is the Sensory Onesie, created with children with autism in mind. The Ashington company has worked with The National Autistic Society to design a onesie that is cosy and comfortable for children who can be especially sensitive to touch and texture. The Sensory Onesie is sewn in a way that makes it feel seamless, with no labels to cause irritation and children can order a fabric sample kit so they feel first before buying. The design-your-own service means there are absolutely no limitations, with little luxes able to state exactly how they want their onesie, from hoods, tails, feet, ears and even embroidery. www.the-all-in-one-company.co.uk

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WALKIES

POSH POOCHES with Alfie, helped by Elysia Agnew

Winter warmer Happy New Year folks. We’re kicking off the New Year with some hound holiday inspo, suitcase essentials for winter and a catch up with a cheeky Boston Terrier. After an over-indulgent Christmas, we’re getting back into the swing of things with longer walks and structured mealtimes. No more cold turkey and cosying up by the fire, it’s time to get in shape and plan for another great year of poochy adventures. First things first, we’re beating the January blues by picking out some perfect pooch-friendly chalets for ski trips with the whole family (including the furry members)! Thanks to Alpine Guru’s ‘Paw Pair’ service, skiers can hit the slopes with their pampered pets. We’ve picked out three of the best dog-friendly chalets in Colorado, Val D’Isere and Verbier. We’ve been talking treat tips and Yarm shopping hotspots with Elvis the Boston Terrier and we’re ready to explore new destinations for walks and wags in the North East and beyond. Wishing you a very happy and healthy 2018. Alfie, your luxe pooch x

Alfie loves:

<< STRAPPING STUD A new collar and lead is a must on your pup’s winter kit list. Get this Rock Candy combo from Mungo & Maud and give your dog something to bark about. Lead: £77.50 - £89.50 | Collar: £59.50 - £79.50; www.mungoandmaud.com

<< WRAP UP WARM Keep your canine cosy with this classic cable knit by Ruby Rufus. This luxe cashmere roll-neck is the ultimate chic sweater for your pooch’s winter wardrobe! £95; www.rubyrufus.com

<< STAR OF THE SHOW Treat your little star to this Mutts & Hound’s printed linen neckerchief this winter. It’ll keep their neck warm and will remind them just what a starthey are! £17.50; www.muttsandhounds.co.uk

Luxe Pooch Q&A Elvis is a very handsome (and he knows it) Boston Terrier who has just turned nine. He lives in Kirklevington near Yarm and came to live his pampered lifestyle aged six and a half. Elvis is a retired show and stud dog from a breeder in Nottingham. LUXE WALKS >> I love going to Saltburn where I run into the sea so my human can chase me because I’m ruining my designer pirate collar. I love running around the fields with mummy’s other two dogs Hugo and Kane. POOCH’S PERFECT DAY OUT >> I love going for a walk around Yarm. I like to get fussed from the lovely girls at Jules B. Then we go to a fantastic new pet boutique in Yarm called Zibizi, they sell loads of fantastic things including

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<< Chalet pooch

Pack your pooch up with some winter warmers this season. Whether you’ve got a ski trip on the cards or you’re just wandering out into the cold, here are some canine cupboard essentials for the New Year.

ON THE ROAD >> Making travelling with your pooch both stylish and savvy with this Wool & Dogs travel bed from Style Tails. The pure wool interior means your companion will feel cosy and comfortable as they set off on a wintery trip. £150; store.styletails.com

doggy pick and mix and gourmet doggy ice cream. DOGGY DOWNTIME >> I love to chill out in my Mutts and Hounds donut bed. I also like to lay on the sofa, chair and sheepskin rugs… mummy tells me to get off but I just pretend I’m asleep with an extra cute face so she just lets me stay where I am. HOUND HABITS >> I won’t let my mummy have her breakfast in peace. I annoy her until she lets me sit on her lap. If she’s trying to watch TV and she’s not paying me enough attention, then I’ll stand in the way or sit on the remote control.

Hitting the slopes this winter? Does it melt your heart to see those teary puppy eyes glaring up as you pack your suitcase? Well you won’t have to worry about leaving your pooch at home this year thanks to Alpine Guru’s ‘Paw Pair’ service. Skiers eager to holiday in the mountains can make the most of this luxe in-chalet doggy day care, providing your pet with all of life’s little luxuries while you make your way down the piste. With dog-friendly ski chalets across Europe and the USA, this poochy service arranges everything you need for your furry friend to enjoy their luxury break as much as you do. With top quality dog bedding, special suppers, hound hampers and in-chalet grooming visits, your pooch will feel totally pampered on their ski trip. Alpine Guru’s dog-friendly ski chalets around the world include Rubywood (Colorado), Chalet Lhotse (Val D’Isere) and Chalet Spa (Verbier). To find out more about Alpine Guru’s dog-friendly chalets, or to discuss the Paw Pair dog care service, please visit www.alpineguru.com or call 0203 004 8750.

PUPPY PAMPER >> I only need a bath when I’ve rolled in the fields, sometimes this can be every day much to my mummy’s delight. DOG’S BEST FRIEND >> Mummy of course. Hugo is ok but I find him a bit irritating as now I don’t get all the attention - I have to share. FONDEST DOGGY MEMORY >> Coming into my new home over two years ago for the first time and being allowed to sleep on the bed, sofa and anywhere I liked. PUPPY A-LISTER >> Tom Hardy. Slightly smaller in size but utterly, drop dead gorgeous.

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

@TheLuxeMagazine or @LuxeyPooch

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GOLDEN MOMENTS

CELEBRATING 50 ISSUES:

ISSUE 6

“I was a student in Newcastle and it was brilliant. What has been achieved in NewcastleGateshead has been astonishing.” George Clark, architect and TV presenter

ISSUE 18

“We love the beaches and we’ve done Hadrian’s wall. I’ve loved the area and the people and the welcome I have had here.” Alan Pardew, Newcastle United Manager (2012)

ISSUE 9

“I’ve always found the audiences up here are much more intelligent, much more generous. It just feels like coming home - it’s the people, there’s a lot more warmth up here than you get used to in London.” Stephen Tompkinson, actor ISSUE 17

“To kick off in my hometown, the day my new album is released will be a golden moment for me.” Dave Stewart, singer/songwriter

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ISSUE 20

“I love working up here – I work here whenever I get the chance.” Mark Benton, actor on TV and stage

ISSUE 24

“Newcastle is home, it’s a cliché but coming over the bridge or flying and seeing the coast. Fantastic.” Ant and Dec, TV presenters

ISSUE 25

“Northumbrians are proud of where they come from and have an inner peace.” Robson Green, cctor

ISSUE 30

“It was quite an experience, standing looking out over the Newcastle skyline and hearing Mark Knopfler playing Local Hero right next to you…” Kathryn Tickell, musician

ISSUE 26

“There’s a diversity in food in Newcastle and the surrounding now that is exciting. It creates an incredible buzz in the city centre.” Terry Laybourne, chef

ISSUE 31

“I was incredibly lucky to wake up in intensive care in a place I love.” Si King, Hairy Biker/chef

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GOLDEN MOMENTS

here’s a look back at some the people we’ve met along the way…

ISSUE 42

“I still do all my clothes shopping in the North East. I basically just bring the North East back down with me, like a home comfort. Some of the little independent shops on Linthorpe Road in Middlesbrough, I think they would be surprised. I’m proud to call the North East home.” Hayley McQueen, sports broadcaster ISSUE 44 ISSUE 37

“I have always believed that it is possible to make a beautiful place that had good values at its heart and that was good for people. It is my job to get the money and make sure we have the attraction to bring people here. Jane Percy, Duchess of Northumberland

ISSUE 35

“It was a dream for me to come to a club like Newcastle and it has been an amazing seven years. I never expected to be here so long and I am grateful for all the support the fans have given me.” Jonas Gutierrez, former Newcastle United Footballer

ISSUE 38

“Now here I am coming back to the North East sword-fighting!” Quite strange for a lad from Hartlepool.” Kieran Bew, primetime actor

ISSUE 39

“I’ve got to say I fought hard to try and open the show in the North East. People in the North East have a connection with what I do. It amazes me how smart, intelligent and informed our audiences in the North East are.” Lee Hall, writer

“There was a point when I was presenting the late bulletins on HTV and mum was doing them in the North East.” Jayne Secker, broadcaster

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“My love of the area is wrapped up in my love of nightclubs and the North East’s ritualistic devotion to a good night out. I love coming home, I always go for a run on the beach first.” Lauren Laverne, broadcaster

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“I said I wanted to take it (The British Masters) to Close House and the North of England. It’s great for the area. I just hope and they enjoy the golf course and they enjoy playing a tournament in Newcastle.” Lee Westwood, golfer

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“Basically, we will keep adding Newcastle dates until no-one else wants to come. The Tyne Theatre is certainly one of my favourite venues.” Sarah Millican, comedian

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celebrate in style with a luxurious London getaway

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Celebrate 2018

A fabulous two-night weekend stay at Dukes Hotel, Mayfair First Class rail travel with Grand Central Trains A £200 voucher to dine at The Wolseley

with a luxe break in the capital. We’ve teamed up with Dukes Hotel and Grand Central Trains to offer a fabulous London stay for two people.

Travel first class from the North East on the

comfortable, spacious and relaxed Grand Central fleet.

Stay in style at Dukes Hotel in Mayfair, famous for its

chic martini bar. The hotel is wonderfully placed in the heart of bustling Mayfair, perfect for shopping, culture and sight-seeing.

Dine in the busy and bustling Wolseley restaurant in Piccadilly with its grand café atmosphere

TO ENTER OUR PRIZE DRAW:

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Entry via the Luxe website at www.luxe-magazine.co.uk/win T&Cs apply, available upon request. Closing date noon, February 1, 2018.

BOLTHOLE

AND RELAX

Hip hotels with Debrah Dhugga Romance and rest on your mind? Deb checks in to the ultimate hideaway – a boathouse bolthole

HOTEL >> After spending a cosy pre-Christmas weekend in the Lake District at Storrs Hall on Lake Windermere, I returned home feeling so calm and ready to get the festivities on the road! The hotel is a combination of historical grandeur and contemporary luxury; it’s so spacious and spectacular, surrounded by the world’s most awe-inspiring natural beauty. About a two-hour drive from Newcastle to Windermere but for a super luxe experience, you can arrange to arrive by helicopter next time for sure! ROOMS >> I was lucky enough to book something special, the new one-bedroom Boathouse. A cosy and so-so peaceful retreat right on the lakeside. Better still, it comes complete with a private hot-tub, fire-pit and alfresco dining. This is the place if you’re planning a honeymoon, big birthday treat, even a proposal! It is perfect for a cosy winter

weekend break; even your bed has spectacular lake views. The main hotel itself is a grand place with recently refurbished en-suite bedrooms with luxurious fittings and contemporary bathrooms. It blends 18th Century history with the comforts of modern luxury and all rooms are situated in the restored Grade II listed Georgian mansion house set right at the shoreline of the beautiful Lake Windermere. RELAX >> Take a bath whilst overlooking the lake or stroll around the hotel’s 17 acres of landscaped gardens, soaking up the magnificent UNESCO world heritage status scenery. It is a little haven for those moments when you need escape. OUT & ABOUT >> The hotel can provide a selection of walking maps and packed lunch so that guests can enjoy a crisp walk in the surrounding countryside. Return to the hotel and a roaring fire, with a warming hot drink. Plenty of the Lake District’s museums,

castles, historic houses and gardens to explore on your doorstep - and nearby the historic towns of Bowness and Windermere. FOOD >> The best thing about taking a cosy winter break has to be the food of course. Whether it’s pre-dinner drinks at the Tower Bar in front of a roaring fire or dining at the award-winning Temple Restaurant, Storrs Hall serves up superb cuisine in serene surroundings. On arrival I indulged in lovely afternoon tea which can be enjoyed

in the restaurant, drawing room or library, all of which have stunning views of Windermere and the Lake District fells beyond. DETAILS > My stay at Storrs Hall was so peaceful. It’s a really romantic spot if you’ve got a big event planned - a unique and memorable place to celebrate. The luxurious boathouse really is somewhere you will want to return time and again.

Factbox Room rates at Storrs Hall start from £185 for a Classic Lake View Room on a bed, dinner and breakfast basis based on two people sharing a room. Rates at The Boathouse start from £460 per night for two people with dinner and breakfast included. I promise it’s worth every penny! Enjoy. www.storrshall.com

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COOL ESCAPE

Kayak cool

Whether your weekend pursuits are of the high-energy or pampering variety, a delicious new hotel in the Lakes makes for a tempting destination as Kathryn Armstrong discovers

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The moment you walk in to Another Place you know that when it comes to hotels it lives up to its name. On the outside it may look grand and imposing but the vibe inside couldn’t be further from fusty. There’s a jumble of muddy Joules wellies waiting to be filled with feet for a scamper on the lawns outside. A full-length blackboard is scribbled with the day’s activities for the tall and small of guests to partake. Or you can slink off to the sanctuary of a snug lounge, sink in to a sofa, then order a Lakes Gin and tonic to enjoy while you take in views of glorious Ullswater. Because glorious Ullswater is without doubt the star of this newly opened hotel sitting amidst a quarter mile of private lake frontage on the famous lake’s lush and lovely shores. The hotel is the first in the new collection of Another Place properties from the team behind the relaxed family-friendly Watergate Bay Hotel in Cornwall. The vibe is calm, relaxed and as active as you fancy. The people staying number chic retirees, youthful professionals doing the mini-break thing and a fair few new dads parading their little ones in a designer papoose (whilst mum makes a break for it in the spa). It makes for an easy-going, wholesome atmosphere of all-round wellbeing. It’s up to you whether your vessel for the day is kayak, paddleboard, walking boot or hot tub. But for sure, a definite destination has to be the Swim Club. One of the most

beautiful pools you’ll ever dip in to. It’s a sparkling glass cube with a pool that glides you towards a shore-side lake view. In the morning when the sun starts to shine it’s a dazzling shimmer of a place – complete with poolside sauna and an outdoor hot tub. Close by is the hotel’s chic little spa which is a comforting place, offering a range of great therapies such as the hot rocks detox which is pretty much perfect as a wind-down treatment – whether you’ve climbed the fells

- or just escaped a mountain of work. Fell-climbing is an obvious attraction here. The ethos is eco and outdoorsy, making the most of the goodness on your doorstep. So, you’re encouraged to take to the many and varied trails that are available from the

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COOL ESCAPE

Out & about Rainy days are made for Rheged. A great indoor venue near Penrith with local food hall, craft shops and exhibitions. There’s also a huge 3D film theatre showing wilderness and nature films. www.rheged.com Take it easy on the water with a steamer trip on Ullswater. You can sit back and take in the view or use it as a starting point for one of a number of great treks around the lake. www.ullswater-steamers.co.uk

hotel and suitable for all levels of fitness – from the fun-packed hour-long story walks made for little legs – right up to the challenge of the breath-taking 20-mile Ullswater Way. Guided natural history walks can also be arranged. Exploring Ullswater from the water is an obvious attraction and one of the things they do best here. Paddle in hand, you have as much freedom as a cyclist in the fells. Drift along the lake shore on paddleboard or get out with the whole family in canoes or sea kayaks to explore Ullswater’s nine miles at lake level. Parents can set their kids up at the very inviting Kids’ Zone which offers day-long treats in the outdoor cabin, safari tent and outdoor play area. There are supervised sports and activity sessions for all ages. The place is hugely geared up for children but that’s in no way overwhelming if you don’t have kids in tow. When it comes to eating, there’s a cool bar and bistro called The Living Space which is light and airy with great lake views. This offers all-day eating options until 10pm,

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Hot rocks detox is pretty much perfect as a wind-down treatment – whether you’ve climbed the fells - or just escaped a mountain of work. including cocktail and drinks – and also has a children’s high-tea available. Rampsbeck Restaurant opens for buffet-style breakfast (fine Cumberland sausage) but also offers a neat Cumbrian-inspired evening menu. With a Lancashire-born head chef, the provenance of the menu is assured – not least thanks to a vegetable patch and herb garden in the grounds of Another Place. Feast on starters such as Morecambe’s potted brown shrimp or rillettes of Lakeland beef. Main courses might include Herdwick lamb hotpot or confit duck leg with cassoulet. A classic approach from a skilled kitchen backed up by an impressively

chosen wine list. Do say yes to the Alsace pinot noir. The hotel’s interior mixes classic with contemporary and is designed to make the most of surroundings and really bring the outdoors in. There are 40 rooms in total. The original Georgian house is home to luxurious high-ceiling romantic rooms whilst a new wing boast more contemporary rooms with wood panelled walls painted in foresty tones and accessorised with textured throws, luxurious velvet chairs and cool touches like the bedside Roberts radio. And as many Tunnocks teacakes as you can eat. Arm yourselves with these and get your

in-room thermos flask filled for the day’s outdoor adventures. The hotel will also provide picnics and pack-ups for lakeside sustenance. It’s all wonderfully Swallows and Amazons actually.

Factfile Doubles from £160 and family suites from £270 bed and breakfast. An Escape to the Lakes break includes a two-night stay with dinner at the Living Space and Rampsbeck restaurants. From £169 winter and £199 in summer. Sunday to Thursday. www.anotherplace.com

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SLOPE AWAY

SKIING IT UP with Varsha Sehgal Your guide to the season in vibrant Verbier

STYLE INSPIRATIONS >> Look good on the slopes...

Sir Richard Branson! Home comforts with luxurious extras, this chalet is also conveniently located near the Medran gondola. Boutique - the La Cordee des Alpes is definitely worth considering for its very clever blend of a rustic mountain lodge and contemporary boutique experience. The efficient staff, excellent restaurant and stunning spa are all good reasons to overlook the problem of immediacy which is easily remedied by the shuttle service.

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Karen Walker, £162.97

Le Rouge

REFUELLING IN VERBIER >> Fer A Cheval - on a sunny afternoon this is one of the best places in the village for lunch and an apres ski drink. In the evenings it can tend to get quite busy and loud. Al Capone - famous for its unpretentious hearty food and wine cellar, this restaurant has a relaxed feel and breathtaking views. La Channe - known for its Swiss-French delicacies, this restaurant is always busy in high season for its delicious cheese fondues and meat dishes. La Grange - beautifully rustic, this restaurant is strong on its wood-fire grills, fish and game. It downplays its culinary prowess and has a reputation of being one of the most elegant restaurants in the village. Le Rouge - arguably the most popular terrace in Verbier, this is a great spot for people watching and its panoramic views. Le Millenium - an eclectic mix of food covering Asian fusion, Swiss-French,

<< Fulsap, £25

PARTY IN THE ALPS >> Unlike the French Alps, Switzerland is not known for its high voltage antics during the day but it most certainly comes alive at sundown! With a spate of exclusive bars and clubs, Verbier is not short of its own action, the best of which happens at the Farm Club, Farinet and Etoile Rouge. Some bakeries are even open well past midnight to aid refuelling! RETAIL THERAPY IN THE MOUNTAIN >> Surrounded by sports shops and retail brands, the area around Place Centrale has something to offer any shopper whether they are searching for high-performing ski gear, trinkets to take home or even art! There are several impressive brands to choose from including, Moncler and Ogier which have their own boutiques.

>> Moncler Grenoble, £260

HOME IN THE VALLEY >> Accommodation in Verbier consists predominantly of traditional chalets, but there are also a number of outstanding international hotels which offer modern comforts without compromising the Alpine experience. For proximity and ease the ones located around the Place Centrale, Medran gondola and Savoleyres lift are perhaps the best options but that is not to say, areas like the Plan Pra are not good choices too. Trendy - Synonymous with the brand, the W Verbier is urban fabulousness with a touch of Alpine-style in the most sought after location. Predominantly glass with chalet-style exposed wood, the vibe is polished. Chalet - The Lodge is definitely the most famous private residence available to rent in Verbier because of its very famous owner -

Perfect Moment, £315

American steakhouse with some pasta thrown in for good measure! The staff are friendly and the atmosphere, relaxed.

La Grange

The Lodge

DESTINATION >> Verbier has it all. Not only is it Switzerland’s largest ski area with 80 lifts accessing over 400km of runs, but also the only resort in the Alps to boast of spectacular views of the Matterhorn as well as the Mont Blanc which become visible from the Mont Fort. Charmingly quaint and dotted with chocolate box chalets of all sizes, many of which serve as hotels, shops and restaurants, at 3,330ft, this little hamlet is snow-sure for those chasing powder. The ‘Verbier set’ are decidedly agile and youthful and it’s an open secret that the resort is favoured by many young and lively royals!

The W, Verbier

La Cordee des Alpes

Isabel Marant, £485

Flights from Newcastle Geneva (GVA): 1h 40m/ 160km Direct flights with EasyJet www.easyjet.com

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BLISS OUT

Share a sun salute that lives up to its name at luxurious yoga retreats

Make like Mehgan and Harry with twisting togetherness in a yoga session. The duo start their days meditating in unison – make it a new year plan to perfect the chaturanga dandasana together at these hot destinations: MOROCCO >> With an emphasis on mind and body, Es Saadi Marrakech Resort holds regular yoga sessions run by yoga expert Sally Goldfinger, who has worked with students from all corners of the globe and who is an incredibly warm and welcoming teacher for all levels of practice. In February 2018 guests can take part in a 4 day/3-night Hatha Flow, Ayurveda & Detox yoga retreat in

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partnership with Paris’ exclusive “Le Tigre Yoga Club.” The retreats are designed to rest, restore and revive. www.essaadi.com/en/palace-spa/ yoga-retreats SPAIN >> Renowned for its fun, sophistication and worldwide A-list celebrity following, Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay is an ideal location for a yoga session. Managed by Six Senses, Ibiza Bay’s yoga programmes take place on their

yoga pavilion and include authentic and millennia-old healing practices that deliver the optimum body and mind balance. www.nobuhotelibizabay.com GREECE >> Located directly on the seaside, perched on the south-west coast of Kassandra, Halkidiki, Miraggio Thermal Spa Resort combines the clear blue skies, golden sands and the welcoming waters of the Aegean. Miraggio offers daily sunset and sunrise yoga session on its newly built beach-front pavilion, which offers the idyllic setting for chilled group yoga after a day exploring the Kassandra peninsula. www.miraggio.gr/en MALDIVES >> Surrounded by the teals and cerulean of the Indian Ocean, Hurawalhi Island Resort offers bespoke yoga and mindful practices.

Couples can take part in a personalized yoga program crafted to de-stress, and restore their vital energy force with traditional therapies and an inward journey, all set along a jaw dropping backdrop of kaleidoscopic swirls of colour each night as the sun sets and rises. www.hurawalhi.com CYPRUS >> It is said that Aphrodite rose from the seas directly in front of the five-star Aphrodite Hills Resort. Certainly it’s a breath-taking place. Nestled in the midst of a protected forest with unparalleled views of the Mediterranean Sea, couples are invited to experience the beauty and magic of their surroundings through a hill-top yoga class, practiced to the sound of a live acoustic guitar. www.aphroditehills.com

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NATURAL HIGH

Return of the wine bar Dry January? How about the more grown up version – drink less, drink better. We discover the wine bars with a difference A new wave of wine bars is creating a buzz for viniculture just as craft breweries did for beer. The cool crowds are becoming discerning drinkers, lured by so-called ‘natural’ wines and grapes from far-flung vineyards created by a new wave of winemaker. These places are about convivial gathering in the spirt of affable wine-drinking – a world away from the ‘buy a glass get the bottle free’ world of cheap and nasty pinot grigio. It taps into the notion of drinking less, drinking better. In other words, bringing to your wine drinking the same sensibilities that make you buy your meat from the farm shop or pies from a farmers’ market. In other words, back to provenance and support for small hard-working producers, This new wave of wine-drinking is happening in small towns and big cities, especially as technology helps make it easier for bar owners to keep their wines at optimum quality once a bottle is opened. In Yarm high street, the newly-opened Fourteen Drops is run by sommelier Fiona McLain whose partner Andrea Asciamprener has worked in the wine trade for 15 years. Fourteen Drops encourages customers to try carefully-chosen wines, buy them off the shelf then enjoy them in the bar’s relaxed space for a corkage fee. This concept of the ‘enoteca’ - a wine taste and buy destination - is also practised by wine-lovers Mo O’Toole and Claire Carruthers at their Carruthers & Kent deli and wine shop in Gosforth (pictured below). Says Mo: “‘Enoteca’ is Italian from the Greek word meaning Wine Repository. It is the essence of the convivial small, independent shop that invites customers to taste wines at a reasonable prices. “A bit like a wine ‘library’ where you can pop in, dip into something new and taste unusual wines. In Italy, most enotecas sell small plates of food to match the wines.” It was the Pitti Gola in Florence that inspired Claire and Mo to create Carruthers & Kent. Bars like C&K and Fourteen Drops offer a regular changing wine menu as well as wine flights of three specially selected wines. Fiona McLain says: “We know people tend to stick to wines they like because it is a gamble to try something if they’re unsure how it will taste. “We want to encourage people to expand their wine-drinking horizons, try new wines and to make them think about drinking better wine.” Fiona, 30, has been in the wine trade for a number of years as a sommelier with Rockliffe Hall near Darlington and Michelin-

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starred House of Tides in Newcastle. She has achieved WSET wine education qualifications. The couple hope to offer customers wines from smaller producers as well as one-off vintages bought at auction. “An example is a 1982 Sassicia which is known as a ‘super-Tuscan’. “We will have money-can’t buy wines – often those that you would only see on a restaurant menu.” Fiona hopes that as an authentic wine bar, the concept of Fourteen Drops will appeal to genuine wine enthusiasts. “It pays to drink better, but we realise that people can be scared of paying for a wine they are unsure of. So, we are trying to allow them to access new, exciting and delicious wines that they can enjoy it and learn more about it. We also want to champion smaller producers and support ethical wineries.

It pays to drink better, but we realise that people can be scared of paying for a wine they are unsure of

“We will draw on wines from across Europe with snacking plates, encouraging the continental idea of lingering and sociable enjoyment of wine and good company”, adds Fiona. In Newcastle city centre, Cedric Boc-Ho and Catherine Metcalfe bring the plasures of French wine to their relaxed wine bar and bistro, The French Quarter (pictured above). The couple moved to the North East from France aiming to challenge perceptions that French dining is formal and fussy. So you can try new wines, shop from the deli and share Cedric and Catherine’s love of all things French. Cedric is originally from the Loire Valley in France and has a natural curiosity for food and wine; Catherine is originally from Northumberland and after setting off on a ski season in 2010, she met Cedric and adopted a real passion for the place, the food and the overall experience. Cedric has a natural curiosity for food and wine which he has followed throughout his 12 years working in hospitality and whilst studying to obtain his MBA in hospitality management and WSET awards in wines and spirits. Her certainly agrees with the notion of ‘drink les, drink better.’ “I couldn’t agree more with this idea”, he says. “From a young age alcohol was never a taboo but more something very communal and approchable. In France you drink wine pretty much every day but a very small amount of it.

“My family would never eat a meal without a few sips of their house favourite. This is why we have introduced wine flight in our restaurant in order for customers to discover and enjoy new wines in smaller quantities.” He fears France’s big wine regions are getting too expensive, even for ‘not-so-good’ wine they produce. “My favourite région is the Languedoc where you find very exciting producers and all sorts of grapes grown there. “A purist will insist pinot noir should not be grown there but I have to say I have discovered some of the best pinot noir I’ve ever tasted. Also, few areas in Languedoc are free from any AOC which means producers are free to create the wine they want without having to follow a very strict criteria. Cedric is a big fan of the natural wines and the movement and to respect a wine area’s ‘terroir’. “I am very much in agreement with the idea of respecting the terroir and maintaining chemical-free farming, which I believe is the main idea behind natural wines. I love trying new things and am always interested to explore.” New ways of keeping wine fresh mean here’s now more opportunity for customers to ‘try before they buy’ – just as you would try a spritz of perfume before buying the whole bottle. “I am very excited to see that the industry is moving forward and that finally we see different ways of selling wine than in the original wine bottle. “It is fantastic to introduce expensive wine to the public. I have invested in a coravin myself recently.” Cedric’s passion for fine food and wine has turned him into a bit of a collector. In the last 10 years he has carefully peeled wine labels off each extra special bottle of wine he has tried, he has photographed every unique French dish he has eaten and saved each empty can after a particularly good beer. As delicious as his life of tasting has been, all been done with the dream to open a place where all of these great products can be shared with others, under one roof.

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NATURAL HIGH

Three to try on your travels EDINBURGH Enoteca is a wine-lover paradise hidden behind and beneath granite walls in the city’s old town. Run by the fabulous Vittoria group which excels in all things foodie and Italian in the Scottish capital, Enoteca offers more than 30 wines by the glass from an Enomatic dispenser - and one of the best wine lists in the city. www.vittoriagroup.co.uk/divinoenoteca BIRMINGHAM Loki wine lounge sits in a beautiful Edwardian arcade in the characterful Cathedral quarter of the city. The most awarded wine merchant in Birmingham, you can try 40 wines by-the-glass from a range of over 600 wines from boutique or rare producers which can be bought an opened on the premises. The wine lounge provides an area to chill out in and enjoy meat and cheese platters. www.lokiwine.co.uk LONDON How about Vinoteca whilst you’re waiting to get the train back north or to mark your arrival in the capital? Vinoteca Kings Cross. A London original and one of the first to offer top wines in relaxed and informal surroundings. Vinoteca offers up an ever-changing selection of 25 wines by the glass and updates its list of over 200 wines twice a year. Deliciously drinkable wines paired with wholesome food or continental platters. www.viinoteca.co.uk

One to try Over in North Yorkshire, the seemingly sleepy town of Leyburn is home to a fabuous little wine club within the Campbell’s food store. Campbell’s Wine Club started off as a tasting event but became so popular they created Upstairs at Campbell's - a permanent base created for the Wine Club in a purpose-designed lounge area within the vast Wine Department. It offers regular tasting sessions, talks by wine experts and growers and virtual tours of the world’s wine growing regions, attracting members from all over the North and further afield. Events now take place almost every fortnight in the events area against the backdrop of shelf after shelf of wines from round the world. Spirits and food also feature in increasingly diverse and ambitious programmes. Membership is free and members are entitled to a 5% discount and also benefit from regular special offers. To enquire about membership, contact Richard on 01969 622169 or emailrichard@campbellsofleyburn.co.uk

Open Open NOW

Trends

NATURAL WINES There's a buzz around natural wines at the moment. Natural wines are made by small, artisanal winemakers – in vogue in the same way small food producers currently are. The wines produced accurately reflect the growing conditions of that particular year rather than a wine maker intervening, hence, wines taste fresher and more individual - but they are less predictable.

SKIN CONTACT WINES Skin-contact wine, amber wine, or orange wine is a type of wine made from white wine grapes where the grape skins are not removed, and stay in contact with the juice for days or even months.

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We're not just a showroom for some of the most innovative & exciting bar and tableware in the food & drink industry...we're also a meeting place for the industry's finest to grab a coffee, chat with friends and practise their skills on our unique copper bar. We're open to the public too! 5 Queen Street Quayside Newcastle NE1 3UG London Bar & Kitchen, Newcastle

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LBK.NCL

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Off duty WITH DAVE COULSON

These are moreish morsels to perk up the dull months. A perky snack or crowd-pleaser canapé

Salmon and quail scotch egg SERVES 6 Ingredients 6 quail eggs 500g candied beets 500g purple beets 50ml Campari Flour Egg Breadcrumbs 100ml Beet juice

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Method 50ml Apple juice 50ml Port Ultratex (thickening agent) Balsamic vinegar 500g salt 500g sugar 1kg salmon Edible flowers Pea shoots

Combine salt, sugar and 50ml beet juice then place over the raw salmon fillet. Leave covered for a minimum of two hours. Peel raw beets and spiralise for the strings. Roast remaining beets for 1 hour 30 minutes with salt and a sprinkling of balsamic at 180c. Get a pan of water and bring to the boil. Pop in the quail eggs for two minutes, remove and place in to iced water for 15 minutes. Rinse the salmon and trim the edges of the salmon

fillet. With the excess that you’ve just trimmed, blitz the salmon and place to one side. Peel the quail egg and coat with blitzed salmon, flour, egg and bread crumbs. Mix 50ml each of beet juice, apple juice, Campari and Port then mix with Ultratex to get a gel consistency. Deep fry the scotch egg until golden and crispy Slice the rest of the salmon and combine the elements to make the dish as shown. Finish with edible flowers and pea shoots, then serve.

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SOW, GROW, FEAST

Savouring the seasons WITH KAREN PHILLIPS MAKE SOME MARMALADE >> Blink and you’ll miss it! The season for Seville oranges is so short and comes when you are still reeling from the shock of returning to work after the Christmas break. Even if you can’t face a steamy, citrus fragranced kitchen right now, then still purchase a load of Seville oranges and throw them in the deep freeze (preferably in a well-sealed container otherwise all loaves emerging from the freezer taste of orange!) Once your batch of marmalade is made you can sit smugly in the knowledge that your year’s supply is stocked up in the cupboard just ready for ladling on hot buttered toast, for adding as a filling in warm breakfast muffins, or simply for glazing hams. Makes 10 lb. or 4.5 kg Ingredients: 3lb/1.4kg Seville oranges, washed 2 lemons – juiced 6lb/2.7kg sugar 5 pints of water

What better way to celebrate the New Year than with this 50th Edition of Luxe and our new-style seasonal column

Behold the brazen brassicas Cavolo nero, kale and purple sprouting broccoli are three brassica crops that literally beg winter ‘to bring it on’; they flourish in the cold and taste better for it. I’ve waxed lyrical on purple sprouting broccoli in many winter columns but now’s the time to mention his dark-leaved Italian cousin, cavolo nero, so named from near-black leaves. For those on a health kick, brassicas contain glucosinolates: natural substances that break down in the body to produce cancer-fighting compounds.

Method: Wash the fruit. Juice the oranges. Cut the peel by hand – or if you’re lazy like me, pulse in a food processor. Place in a preserving pan with the orange juice, water and lemon juice. Simmer the peel very slowly until tender ~ 2 hours uncovered, or until the peel just disintegrates when pressed between thumb and forefinger. The peel stiffens when the sugar is added and there is no remedy for hard peel in the finished marmalade. Add the sugar to the pan and stir over a low heat until dissolved. Increase the heat and bring to a rapid boil; test early for a set since marmalade has only a brief period at the setting point and once passed it will never set. Pot into sterilised jars, seal and label.

UPCOMING COURSES @LINNELS FARM MORE BREAD - PART 2 >> FRI 26TH JANUARY CAVOLO NERO & SERRANO HAM TART >> Ingredients: 500g shortcrust pastry 200g cavolo nero leaves 70g Serrano ham 200ml whole milk 150ml double cream 2 large eggs, plus one yolk 85g parmesan cheese, grated Method: Preheat the oven to 200C. Roll the pastry thinly and use to line a deep 20x30cm tin. Cover with baking

parchment and baking beans and bake blind for 15 minutes then remove the beans and bake for a further 5-10 minutes until pale golden. Lower the oven to 180C. Meanwhile blanche the cavolo nero leaves for 5 minutes until tender. Drain and squeeze all the excess water out. Arrange in the tart case, along with the Serrano ham; mix the milk, cream, eggs and parmesan with some black pepper and pour over. Bake for 25 minutes until just set.

JOBS FOR JANUARY: • Seek out winter-flowering shrubs. If a plant has flowers in January/February then it needs a heady scent to entice insects to fly and pollinate it in such cold weather. Brilliant winter-flowering scented shrubs are pink-flowered Viburnum Farreri, Hamamelis (witchhazel) with its spicy, citrus overtones, and the diminutive bulbs of crocus and snowdrops – easier to sniff in a pot than when crawling at ground level! • Prune grapevines – there is an incredibly short season for pruning vines without them ‘bleeding’. • When the ground isn’t frozen, a few hours spent weeding and then mulching bare soil with 2” of homemade compost, or bought in soil conditioner, will give you a head start in spring.

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In response to those who attended bread basics and wanted more! Join us on this one day workshop and learn how to make perfect pretzels, crusty baguettes, delicious doughnuts, buckwheat blinis and tarte flambée. Depart with recipes, your own warm, hand-made breads. 9.30am-3.30pm. Includes morning coffee and a 2-course lunch £95

BANISH THE WINTER BLUES >> THURS 1ST FEBRUARY Relish a day of preserving and baking in a warm farmhouse kitchen with the new season’s Seville oranges. Marmalade with whisky or without? You decide! 10am– 3pm. Includes morning coffee and a 2-course lunch £95

STREET FOOD – SOUTH EAST ASIAN INSPIRATION >> FRI 2ND FEB Join us on this hands-on workshop and under the careful guidance of chef Andy Snell, you’ll prepare a South East Asian Street food inspired lunch, including Malaysian style salads, noodle dishes and spicy sambals. In the afternoon you’ll

make a little something to take home. 10am–3pm. Includes morning coffee and a 2-course lunch £95

PRUNING MASTERCLASS >> TUES 23RD JAN & THURS 8TH FEB Maybe you’ve only just purchased your first pair of secateurs or perhaps you’re an accomplished ‘hacker’ but wondered why your plants failed to fruit or flower quite how you’d anticipated, either way this class is for you. Learn the tricks of the trade: when to prune, how to keep shrubs restricted, renovating old plants, and pruning to maximise fruit/flowers. 10am-1pm. Includes morning coffee and cakes. £35

GLORIOUS GLUTEN-FREE! FRI 23RD FEBRUARY Join us for a day of glorious gluten-free cookery. This course is aimed at discovering delicious dishes that are naturally gluten-free from cakes and biscuits through to savoury delights. 10am–3pm. Includes morning coffee and a 2-course lunch £95

>> For further details visit www.linnelsfarm.com

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SCREEN SHOT

CHEF’S TABLE with James Close When Masterchef came to Raby…

Masterchef the Professional finalists at Raby Hunt: Matt Campbell, Steve Lickley, Jamie Park

When it comes to showcasing your food on TV it doesn’t get much bigger than Masterchef the Professionals. We were approached by the production company in the middle of last year about taking part. It means a lot of planning in advance and the thought of throwing your kitchen open to a camera crew is quite daunting. But what an opportunity! My first priority is always to be in my kitchen. Being part of Masterchef the Professionals meant that I wasn’t taken away from the restaurant to spend hours in a different city in a studio – it meant the cameras coming to us and shining a spotlight on Darlington. It was a naturally a great opportunity to showcase what we do at The Raby Hunt to a huge audience of people who have an interest in food. What made me keen to do it was the memory of being a young chef and being captivated by the skills of other chefs and seeing top level kitchens in action. I was always eager to learn, desperate to watch masters in action, to learn new tricks and to be pushed to the max. The chefs who came to Raby were really enthusiastic, good guys who wanted to soak up the experience. It was great seeing how they their interpreted our signature dishes. There were some shaky hands, which is to be expected – and having to get to grips with new equipment like our BBQ for the lamb dish – put the chefs under immense pressure. Feedback has been incredible and the emails and bookings haven’t stopped - but that doesn’t mean you won’t be able to get a table! One of the positives is that the show mentioned Darlington a lot and so there will hopefully be real spin-off for the area. We have a couple of rooms now - and perhaps longer term plans for more accommodation, but for now it feels good that there is a knock-on effect supporting the wider area.

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Take today (it’s a few days before Christmas). The answer machine at Raby Hunt says there are 33 messages for bookings overnight – and it can’t take any more. I think people who saw us on Masterchef liked what they saw about our restaurant – maybe it demystified what a Michelin-starred kitchen is all about, maybe it made us seem more accessible. Maybe the food just looked great. When I’ve watched Masterchef the Professionals myself, my favourite episodes have always been when the chefs go to the top kitchens, so if ever I was going to do any TV then that was going to be it. I never want to be dragged away from my kitchen, so this was the ultimate behind-thescenes view. The crew was here for three days filming. It got a bit stressy at times as you can imagine, but memorable nevertheless. Watching the young chefs under pressure showed how tense the show is – a real sense of competition. I loved the way Jamie – who did the razor clam dish – really got into his cooking; he was so methodical but was enjoying himself. I’d give them all jobs – maybe not right now - but they’re planning on coming back for dinner here sometime soon. The reach of Masterchef the Professionals is huge – I was in Newcastle and got stopped loads of times – five minutes of fame as they say; certainly it has lifted my profile. Maybe people expect a shouty, pointy chef in a place like ours. Behave like that and people just leave. It’s not how I work.

The crew was here for three days filming. It got a bit stressy at times, but memorable nevertheless.

Chocolate Our Raby Hunt chocolates collection is going so well - Maria’s new chocolate Mexican skull will be on sale at the restaurant.

Coming up: A ten-star Michelin trip to Germany starting at le Manoir au Quat’ Saison. Heading to the Dolomites in January for a cooking festival Pop-up Mexican with Barrio Comida in March – watch the website for details. www.rabyhuntrestaurant.co.uk

JAN/FEB18

LIFE’S ROSY

Wake up and smell the roses – then make it a fabulous feast for Valentine’s Day with indulgent gourmet treats to share Ruinart Champagne Rosé £55, Fenwick Food Hall Macarons £9.50 (box of 7) Eden Mill Love Gin £32, Camins del Priorat red wine, 2016 £17.99 Sugarfina Rosé All Day Chocolate Bar £10.99 Sugarfina Champagne Bears Milk Chocolate Bar £10.99 Amber Rose Tea Company Goddess Loose Leaf Tea £13.99 Godminster Organic Vintage Cheddar Heart £5.99 Fresh oysters, £1.10 each Saltwater Fish Co Available from Fenwick Food Hall, Newcastle.

Northern

nights

Let us tempt you with a chilled half bottle of Champagne and a box of chocolates in the room on arrival, followed by a two course dinner from the Market Menu, an overnight stay in a Classic bedroom and full English breakfast. The ‘Northern Nights’ package is priced at £195 per couple in a Classic room, with Feature and Superior rooms available at a supplement of £25 per night (normally £45 per night). This offer is available Sunday – Thursday from 2nd January – 29th March 2018, and is available to new bookings only. Please visit our website for full terms and conditions.

Call us on 03330 096358, or book online at www.blackswan-helmsley.co.uk/luxe

JAN/FEB18

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PERFECT CURE

FISH COURSE

WITH TERRY LAYBOURNE

Salmon is a delicious fish and its firm, but fatty flesh lends itself to curing. The cure ‘cooks’ the salmon by removing the moisture and creating a syrup. This dish is a great British combination – cured fish, beetroot and horseradish, with a glug of vodka. It’s an incredibly versatile dish and perfect for the festive season or if you’re looking to start healthy the new year in a healthy way. Prepared in advance, it is ideal if you’re looking for something easy to impress guests. It keeps well, so you could also make a few extra portions to eat over a few days. Of course, you can buy cured fish but there’s no comparison to creating this at home. When cured with beetroot, the salmon takes on a bright pink hue, making it a standout platter dish. The beetroot infuses the fish giving it a great earthiness and tangy taste. Serve with warm blinis or a side of watercress and a glass of good Chardonnay that can cut through the sharp sauce.

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Beetroot cured salmon, vodka and horseradish SERVES 4 (WITH A LITTLE LEFT OVER) Ingredients

Method

Cured salmon 600g salmon fillet (skin on) 40g fresh dill 3g fennel seeds 10g tarragon 250g raw beetroot (peeled and cut into large dice) 75g sea salt 75g caster sugar 1/2tsp white peppercorns (cracked) 2tbls vodka

To cure the salmon Blend the beetroot, fennel seeds, dill, tarragon, sugar and sea salt in a food processor to make the cure. Pin bone and trim the salmon, lay it onto a large tray and pour the cure over. Cover with cling film then leave in the fridge for 10 hours. Turn the salmon over and cure for another 20 hours. Tip away the juices, wash off the cure and pat the salmon dry. Tightly wrap in clingfilm and allow to chill until need.

Horseradish cream 50g fresh grated horseradish 100mls double cream 100mls crème fraiche 1 tbls lemon juice Salt Milled pepper

To make the horseradish cream Whisk the cream until it reaches soft peaks then fold in the remaining ingredients and season to taste. Thinly slice the salmon and arrange on 4 plates. Spoon the sauce next to the fish and serve with buttered soda bread and lemon wedges.

JAN/FEB18

TASTE

Cellar secrets

If you go down to the cellar today, you’re in for a big surprise

PICK OF THE CROP

Everything in the garden is lovely at Rockliffe Hall, not least ingredients making their way to dishes on the new-look menu at The Orangery. Kathryn Armstrong tried a taste

Any chef will tell you that great ingredients are at the heart of fine food. All the better when you’ve nurtured your passion for them in your own plot. At The Orangery in Rockliffe Hall, executive chef Richard Allen is bringing the power and the passion of the veg plot to the table with a new tasting menu celebrating the accolade of four AA Rosettes. He and his team achieved the award in September last year, one of only ten new Four Rosette awards that year. By way of celebration, The Orangery has re-styled its menu and added some theatre to the tasting menu dining experience, making it memorable and entertaining. It means you’ll be greeted by Richard himself bringing one of the courses and explaining its provenance and inspiration. It means the dining room team bring a flourish to service with the subtle drama of a dish’s description or a story to tell. The 11-course tasting journeys from land to sea to air brings the elements to the plate in the form of pigeon, chalk stream trout and Yorkshire beef. As expected there is much attention to detail with every plate – and a culinary dictionary of description throughout. We begin with pigeon. A ruby-rich chunk of game-flavoured breast fillet teamed with woodland flavours of wild truffle mushroom and leek. A delicate Asian-style broth flavoured with chervil root is served over and duck egg yolk adds a silky soft texture to the dish. A real standout course from the menu is beetroot and Ragstone cheese. It is a revelation, a beautiful thing to put in your mouth: Mousse-like whipped goat’s cheese with a soft lemony tang is served with slivers of beetroot that has been transformed into an almost meringue-like textured sheet that melts on your tongue but packs a punch of intense beetroot flavour. Remarkable combination of flavours. It’s thrilling menu that delivers in terms of variety. Some strong, rich flavours and then delicate and subtle offerings. A slice of lemon sole goes back to exemplary basics with a velvety crab bisque and slash of chard. Yorkshire beef finds its way to the menu in the form of rib and mince with miso onion and potato. Your witty take on good old mince and potato. This version is all about the dance of sweet, long-cooked onion and mince with perfectly pink beef rib. The menu moves to the desserts; three dishes which span chocolate, cake and fruit pleasures.

JAN/FEB18

Carrot cake is a deconstructed version of this favourite: complete with carrot discs and a tart sea buckthorn cream. The meal rounds off with a gold-studded mace! A sweet version of the medieval weapon – something like a studded lollipop, crunchy and creamy, a work of art - and guaranteed to raise a smile. The meal itself is a delicious food journey that doesn’t take itself too seriously. The Orangery’s staff are all name-checked on the menu and there’s a nice sense of teamwork from everyone. The rookie sommelier does well with stories told as he delivers the wine-pairing with the different courses, supported by his boss. They are clearly working to nurture a keen and loyal team on site.

Rockliffe Hall’s head sommelier, Daniel Jonberger is the perfect pairing for dinner at The Orangery. The hotel has just started intimate wine-tasting experiences with the engaging Daniel as your guide. The wine magic happens in the atmospheric setting of the ancient below-stairs wine cellar, accessed through a secret passageway beneath the restaurant itself. It feels like a covert adventure as Daniel reaches for his keys, and unlocks a solid door which opens up to a place of wine riches. Daniel is the keeper of some of the world’s finest wines within these walls and he has fascinating stories of the wheeler-dealing in the wine world between sommeliers desperate to get their hands on rare and distinctive vintages for their wine-loving customers. He is currently having something of a love affair with the wines of Argentina having travelled there recently, extensively touring the country’s finest vineyards. So these wines feature on some of his wine-tasting tutorials, alongside hefty super-Tuscans and bold Bordeaux. The cellar sessions can be booked in before your meal and add an entertaining dynamic to the evening. Daniel is a great host. He’s worked in wine for many years – including stints at The Samling and Holbeck Ghyll in Cumbria and is hugely knowledgably and enthusiastic about his subject. He’s a good guide to the a wine’s flavours, aromas and personality; what it sits with in terms of food and how the flavours play out. A tasting might start with the freshest of whites through to the richest of reds, so you can compare as you go along. He knows the stories of vineyards and taps in to current wine trends in an easy and entertaining way.

Some of the sessions on offer Wine Tasting Challenge Sommelier pitches two very different vineyards against each other. You’ll taste wines made from the same grapes at each viineyard, but the way in which they’ve been produced, their country of origin and the terroir will be different. £65 per person for one hour.

Tailor Made Tastings

Whether you have a favourite grape or region, or would like to explore new ones, book a bespoke wine-tasting session. All white, red, rosé or a combination of two or three. From £45 per person for one hour.

Beginner’s Wine Tasting

If you’re new to wine tasting, or even new to wine, this sampling session is a perfect introduction into the world of the grape. Sample seven delicious wines from different parts of the world and different palates. £55 per person. Prices are based on 2-8 people. www.rockliffehall.com

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STAYING IN in association with

Wine pair It’s warm and cosy time when life’s about comfort food and hearty wine. Here, chef Steve Lawford from Chadwicks Inn, Maltby creates a simple but nourishing long-cooked and moreish beef dish. Wine man Lee Tolley pairs up some luscious wines to make the dish sing!

<< Full on french Le Fou Pinot Noir (Boutinot), Languedoc 2016 100% Pinot Noir ABV 12.5%

Le Fou means madman in French. As it says on the label, it has long been thought that only a ‘madman’ would grow pinot noir in the south of France! However, this winemaker has done it, and has done it well. Slightly heavier than you would expect from a pinot noir, it offers warmth and richness but still full of fruit, like cherries and plums. Great for sitting by the fire on a winter’s evening.

Slow Cooked Beef Cheek >> Serves 4 Ingredients

Method

Beef Cheeks

4 beef cheeks (outer sinew removed) 1 onion 2 carrots 2 sticks celery 1 bulb garlic 1 bottle red wine 1 pint water

Brown beef cheeks in a pan. Add to a roasting dish with vegetables and red wine. Add a pint of water and cook for 12 hours at 95C.

Creamed Celeriac 1 celeriac (peeled and diced) 2 shallots 1 clove garlic 100g unsalted butter 1 pint water 200ml double cream

Cuvée Papale Châteauneuf-du-Pâpe (Paul Jourdan), Rhône 2013 60% Grenache, 40% Syrah ABV 15%

Creamed Celeriac

From probably the most famous wine region in the world (and my favourite), this Châteauneuf-du-Pâpe is a classic. Warm and spicy with a hint of star anise. Dark fruit flavour with a touch of cigar tobacco. A fantastic wine for a special get together.

Add all ingredients to a pan (except cream). Cook until water has disappeared and celeriac is cooked through. Add cream and blitz in a food processor until smooth. Season to taste.

Saint Julien (Château Léoville Poyferré), Bordeaux 2001

Plate Up

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc ABV 13%

Remove cheeks from roasting dish and reduce cooking liquor to a gravy-like consistency. We serve ours with the creamed celeriac and sautéed wild mushrooms and lash over the thickened cooking liquor. Enjoy!

This 2001 Saint Julien from a top estate in Bordeaux is perfect. With its age, it has a brownness in colour and vegetal nose but still has a touch of spice and fruit. Smooth with hints of dark chocolate. A bucket list wine.

www.chadwicksinnmaltby.co.uk

Country pub with award winning dining The highest awarded restaurant in the Tees Valley area

chadwicksinnmaltby.co.uk

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Chadwicks Inn Maltby, High Lane, Maltby, Middlesbrough, TS8 0BG | 01642 590300

JAN/FEB18

BIG TALENT

ON THE HOOF with Deborah Smith We meet rider Jess Burnham, definitely one to watch for 2018 Another New Year and another fun-filled festive season finished. The combination of wintry hacks, off-piste riding and Christmas pudding. Bliss! This year in the equestrian world the focus is on The World Equestrian Games at Tryon, North Carolina in September. Held every four years, WEG conveniently fills the gap for equestrians between one Olympic games and the next, and with Tokyo still a few years off it will be interesting to see the emerging stars taking on the established medal winners. The North of England is punching well above its weight in terms of home-grown equestrian talent - with Nicola Wilson from Northallerton celebrating her new career-best world ranking of number two in the latest FEI world eventing rankings. But it’s re-assuring to see a new generation of ‘podium potential’ riders in the region, with their eyes firmly on the prizes. Among them is 13-year-old Jess Burnham from Piercebridge, In 2017 she completed her first season British Eventing and with Kayla, her dun mare, the pair progressed from BE80 to BE100 U18 with many top ten placings. Jess was also the only member of the Zetland Hunt Pony Club to qualify for all three disciplines at the Pony Club Championships

at Cholmondley Castle, Cheshire. It was great to catch up with Jess as she prepares for an exciting year: “I have had many highs but equally many hard lessons learnt along the way, some have cost me dearly but I know will set me up well 2018. “We’ve had some very long journeys home when it hasn’t quite gone to plan but when we exceed our expectations I quietly celebrate! Someone once told me to make your idols your rivals and that always keeps me on my toes”, she says. “Kayla, is not only my best friend but my soul mate too, we nickname her princess at home as she always gives me 110%, she is a pony of a lifetime and her ability continues to amaze me, she can turn her hoof to anything. She is just so reliable and excels in

We’ve had some very long journeys home when it hasn’t quite gone to plan but when we exceed our expectations I quietly celebrate all three disciplines, that’s what makes her so special. She has a heart of a lion cross country, so brave, so courageous and trusts me totally. “Show jumping, she is unbelievably careful; she doesn’t like to touch a pole. Dressage she’s rhythmical and very accurate indeed,” says Jess. People say Jess and Kayla have a unique partnership and that’s very apparent. “I wasn’t given what they call ‘a ready-made pony - a rosette machine,” says Jess. “We bought her as a young pony with scope co-owned by Alan Fazakerley, who trained the GB Junior SJ team and Sarah Carus, in Leyland who spotted her in Ireland and boy we have trained hard to succeed! “Then we bought Max and somehow Kayla knew he wasn’t just coming for a sleep over! She disliked him at first but there’s a healthy rivalry between them but he knows the pecking order. Max is very much the baby of the yard at home but with buckets of scope and equally has a bright future ahead for him. I’m loving the partnership we are developing, as he has such a

JAN/FEB18

TOP 3’S Top 3 venues/ competitions you want to ride in 2018 >> 1/ Burghley Hunt Pony Club’s Open (1m 10) Class Hunter Trial which runs usually in April in preparation for the 2018 BE season 2/ Aldon International BE100 Three Day Event – I can’t wait to do another three-day event. 3/ I so want my first step up to Novice to be at Richmond Horse Trials back end of 2018.

Top 3 treats for your horses after a hard day’s competing >>

Top 3 things you always pack to help competition day go smoothly >>

2/ Lots of extra carrots at tea time and Kayla loves the odd haribo too!

1/ Tiggy, my tan and black coloured patterdale terrier. 2/ My lucky whip, it’s been everywhere with me when I’ve competed. 3/ My GG Gear, I’m lucky to be a Brand Ambassador for GG Gear

3/ Electrolytes and a big fat hay net and a day of rest the following day.

trainable attitude to his work.” With a full training schedule myself with my horse, Oli, and Strider to ride, I was interested in how much training Jess does. “I’m coached a minimum of once a week by my trainer, Tanya Buckingham-Lloyd and in peak season it’s much more, then I have additional help from specialist trainers. “I ride both ponies either before school, which means a 6am early start or straight after school, then I school my mum’s horse too. So, I suppose it’s every day except Mondays as it is a day off for everyone, including the ponies. “During these winter months, I go out with the Zetland Hunt. We have some beautiful country to cross and it teaches you to ride any terrain, forget counting your strides to the hedge or post and rail you’ve just got kick on and hang on. I also do BD and BS all in good preparation for the season ahead. “I’ll be back out British Eventing at BE100 level but aiming for the U18s and regional selection and hope to step up to Novice level by the end of the season, but that’s a long way off as I need to ensure I have consistent

1/ No matter what time we get home, the ponies are always turned out for an hour or so to stretch their legs.

Top 3 words that sum you up!! >> Modest, competitive and determined

performance before doing so in meeting the minimum entry requirements!” It’s easy to see why Jess has progressed so well in her first season as she is full of focus and commitment. And although she has her sights set firmly on under-18 competitions, I have little doubt she will be giving me and lots of other much older competitors a run for their money in 2018! I’ll let you know how we both get on! Read more online at www.luxe-magazine.co.uk

JESS ON HEROES: Nicola Wilson, what a great ambassador she is for the sport, she lives local to me, so talented yet so modest. Tanya Buckingham-Lloyd, my coach. She has been there and got the t-shirt! She competed on the British Europeans Junior Eventing Team and has competed up to 3*. Tanya keeps me grounded and is always there at the end of the phone telling me to keep focused.

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FINE BLEND in association with

www.greatlook.co.uk

A traditional Cumbrian barn is packed to its aged rafters with Indian charm after its owners were inspired by their travels in Asia

Take to the tea house

70 www.luxe-magazine.co.uk

The charming town of Sedbergh lies on the border of Yorkshire and Cumbria. An awfully long way from the Indian sub-continent. But the moment you wake up at Malabar you’ll get a taste of the country so beloved of its owners Graham and Fiona Lappin. They’ve painstakingly transformed an unloved barn into a B&B which offers a stylish and understated nod to their past travels, as well as a genuine taste of India. This comes in the form of your Bed Tea as you wake - a pot of delicious Malabar blend on a little tray with the china teacups and saucers and the sweetest gold-plated teaspoons. At the other of end of the day you can cosy up with a cup of comforting Pillow tea, again, their own blend of a soothing rose petals, chamomile and lavender to aid a restful sleep. Fair to say Graham is an aficionado of the teapot (you will find 12 different leaf tea offerings on the afternoon tea menu at Malabar). He grew up in the southern Indian state of Kerala where his father and grandfather were tea planters. After university he worked in banking, ultimately with Credit Suisse in Mumbai. He and Fiona were working in Mumbai when

they bought Garths Farm as a project, loving its dazzling location. They had little experience of such an undertaking – though Fiona has hospitality in her blood having grown up in hotels where her father Tom was general manager: Kyle of Lochalsh, Tregenna Castle, The Station Hotel in Aberdeen and The Bath Priory. Thus began the renovation of the farm – its potential obvious with an enormous hayloft, cattle stalls and dairy which dated back to the 1700s. They combined their love of India and the Far East with respect for the historic building, so there’s no sense of it being ‘themed’. Says Fiona; “Respecting its origins, our bedrooms marry original stone walls and oak beams with Herdwick wool carpets and soft furnishings that subtly reflect the years we spent in India and the Far East. “Light now fills the once cool, dark cavernous barn and each bedroom enjoys far reaching views across the hills.”

JAN/FEB18

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Elements of the Asia and the Far East include opulent bathrooms – one with a deep burgundy bath, pale oak floor and soft blue shower. In the Earlston suite soft pinks, stone walls and oak beams blend with palest blue and orange to create a soothing and restful bedroom. The bathroom is characterised by its large white Excelsior bath under the eaves of the roof – the room is named after the tea estate bungalow in Kerala where Graham spent the first 14 years of his life. The Ladbroke suite has been brought to life with an opulent bed and furniture from Rajasthan and China. Once part of the farm’s dairy, the red, white and stone bathroom is characterised by an original slate boskin and Farrow and Ball Radicchio red bath. In other rooms, you’ll find an antique chaise found in a Mumbai market and splashes of bright yellow and gold in one of the large, indulgent bathrooms – notably a covetable mustard-painted bathtub. In the double height lounge, an opulent sofa takes centre stage with colourful, jewelled cushions. Taking tea is a big part of a stay at Malabar. A selection of loose-leaf teas are at Tea Station outside of the bedrooms. At breakfast you can drink Malabar house blend loose-leaf tea, freshly ground coffee or traditional Indian lassi. Maintaining the Indian wellness theme, Malabar is also host to yoga retreats – with the first led by Radhika Vachani, founder of the Yogacara Institute in Mumbai. The retreats include yoga and meditation to balance, ground and relax you. Guided walks and therapeutic massage ease stress and strain. You can also join shepherdess Alison O’Neill, a third generation hill farmer tweed on calming and uplifting barefoot walks – and wild swimming sessions can also be arranged for guests. www. themalabar.co.uk

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You’ll find an antique chaise found in a Mumbai market and splashes of bright yellow and gold in one of the large, indulgent bathrooms

JAN/FEB18

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wynyard-homes.co.uk JAN/FEB18

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LUXE LOVES

LUXE LOVES Lizard lust Texture and tone are what Mulberry is all about. This small Darley embossed lizard print bag will add spring zing to any outfit, £595. Fenwick, Newcastle

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JAN/FEB18

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TREND WATCH with Kate Rose New year, new focus, new style… Christmas is my most favourite time of the year, but once the decorations are down and we head into the new year, my focus quickly switches to spring and the inspiration it brings…

New year get away… A surprise skiing trip for my husband’s 40th kicked off our new year. I chose a small French village in France called Montchavin perfect for family skiing. A catered chalet named Hermine, was our base for the week, scandi interiors, log fires, sauna and a hot tub, really create the ultimate ‘hygge’ feeling. Freshly baked cakes for afternoon tea, and a four-course meal cooked by the chef, feels rather indulgent – I could get used to this way of living ….

Bathroom styling… I love a bath after a long day at work, and with lots of gorgeous new bath and body products to try out from Christmas, a revamp of the en-suite was in order. I wanted to create a cosy space, which is fresh and timeless. I opted for a colour scheme of grey, white, and navy. Tiles from Fired Earth - soft grey floor tiles, white cracked tiles for the walls, and a feature wall of recycled iridescent mosaics. I love the mix of clean, contemporary and rustic elements, it really creates a timeless space. I picked up a few rustic crates from a local antiques shop to add texture and interest, perfect for storing products and toilet roll, whoever thought essentials could look glamorous?

Loving… My Neom Ultimate Wellbeing collection. I was lucky enough to receive a beautiful box of Neom essentials. My favourite pick is a scent to sleep spray - a couple of sprays above your head before you hit the pillow and it really aids a restful sleep (my daughter loves it too). Wake feeling refreshed, and use the ‘scent to boost your energy’ hand balm – great start for a productive day. Pick up a new nail colour from Chanel for perfect spring nails. Monochrome or blanc white are my top picks and natural enough to match any outfit.

My top three fashion picks for a skiing break… Ugg Toscano mits Sorel x Chloe snow boots All Saints Gormez parka

Colour… Colour doesn’t come easy to me, I like a neutral scheme with lots of shades of grey …. However, seafoam green has slipped into my colour palette for the spring, it looks striking teamed with neutrals, grey, pinks, and navy. I have been inspired, to create a handmade collection of ceramics, with a local artist Kirsty Adams. A small collection, but perfectly formed. Dipping bowls, pouring jugs, bud vases and a small coaster, will look stunning dotted around a well-dressed kitchen and will complement any neutral colour scheme.

Dreaming of… Long walks along the beach on a bright crisp Sunday morning, followed by a family brunch and an afternoon filled with board games and movies. What a perfect way to start the new year.

Eating…

Listening to… ‘This time of year’ - Maxwell Urban Hang Suite. Heartfelt soulful album, sophisticated and accessible R&B.

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I love to cook but after all the indulgence of Christmas, I opt for simple recipes, which the family will enjoy. Try ‘Ras el Hanout chicken wrap’ from the Persiana cookbook, easy to prepare, delicious and the whole family will love it, just go easy on the spices for the kids…

JAN/FEB18

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LUXE LOCAL

Kendal Properties Kendal is a charming yet contemporary market town in Cumbria. With a beautiful backdrop of Lakeland fells, it’s known as ‘the gateway to the Lakes’. A historic spot, it is definitely desirable with a capital D. Countryside, a bustling arts scene, quirky cafes and restaurants make it a great place to live. There are many styles of property to choose from: weekend flats and boltholes to impressive Edwardian villas and traditional Cumbrian stone houses.

CONNECTED >> Mainline train links connect Oxenholme, Penrith and Carlisle with London and Glasgow. Local trains call at Kendal, Staveley and Windermere. The A66 and the A685 link Kendal with the North East. A straightforward, scenic drive. SHOP >> Kendal is a great spot in Cumbria for a mix of boutique and high street shopping. It boasts the lovely gift shops, galleries and sports stores you might find in many other Lake District locations, but it has a luxury fashion and high street offering too. It’s home to one of our favourite places to shop, relax and be inspired - Jules B. And with separate stores for their womenswear, menswear and lifestyle offering, it means you can really pinpoint what you’re looking for, browsing the shop’s gorgeous, seasonal products. The luxurious ladieswear and menswear stores showcase current, contemporary brands, while the third Jules B store in the town has a more relaxed feel combining high end fashion brands with

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Wrap up warm this winter and take a cross-country trip to this picture-postcard market town dubbed ‘the gateway to the Lake District’

stylish homeware and accessories. The Zen store is a little gem in itself. Sitting in the market square, the beautiful four-storey stone building houses fashion, lifestyle products and interior design pieces to satisfy a very particular type of woman who has been shopping at Jules B for many years. It’s for the woman who knows her brands, knows exactly what she’s looking for and can embrace the hygge lifestyle. Brands include Oska, Grizas, Ralston, Cream and Xenia. If you’re looking to hit the high street shops, Westmorland Shopping Centre is your best bet - with all the every day essentials including Topshop, Argos and Superdrug. Beales department store is great for finding everything in one place, from women’s, men’s and kid’s fashion to homeware, gifts, beauty and furniture. We love White Stuff on Finkle Street for country-chic outerwear and cosy nightwear, and A Family Affair for all your bridal buys. Dinky Shoes is the place for footwear for little ones and 1657 Chocolate House is a haven for people with a sweet tooth. Go here if you’re looking for something to take home for a loved one - or pop to Youdells Art shop for something unique to take away with you for memories.

The cafe culture is thriving here and a new Turkish treat has popped up in town. Café Olive offers sumptuous food with an authentic twist. It’s something unique and there’s a vibe inside that makes you want to cosy up and spend the day people watching out the window. Head to The Moon Highgate for quality food in a comfortable, relaxed setting. Go here for fine dining and to sample some of the best of Cumbrian produce that changes with the seasons. For an Italian feast, visit Paulo Giannis, an independent restaurant in the heart of the market town, but with a contemporary, city-chic feel about the place. Paulo Giannis has an adjoining wine bar on two floors, meaning you can top your night off with an Italian wine tipple post-dinner. For something a little exotic, go to Jintana Thai on Highgate. A relaxed, friendly environment where diners can enjoy freshly prepared and authentic Thai cuisine. If you’re looking for somewhere for sociable food and to soak up the atmosphere with a quirky cocktail in hand, Slate is the place to be. Beautifully prepared beverages, a stunning wine list and tasty tapas to pick at while your socialise. STROLL >> This beautiful market town is situated in one of the most picturesque parts of the country,

making it the perfect base for walkers and sightseers who wish to explore the delights of the town centre as well as its surrounding hills and rolling countryside. For a scenic walk overlooking the town, take a pretty woodland walk and head for the heights of Kendal Fell. A short stroll over the fringes of Kendal Golf Course and along a number of paths will bring you to the ‘Heights’, where you can enjoy views over the town centre and beyond. A ride in the car will bring you to Sizergh Castle, a 1,600-acre estate nestled within a lush, agricultural landscape. A whole host of walks and impressive viewpoints surround this enchanting location where you’ll feel worlds away with everything in your view. A great spot to snap away and make photographic memories to last a lifetime.

FOOD >> If you’re a foodie you’ll love Kendal for its diverse offering and its top class cuisine. There’s something for every meal, every taste and every occasion. Go to Babaganoush for a bit of breakfast and a hot drink. It’s a small cafe with a big heart - the perfect place to pick up a freshly made pastry, a sweet treat and a coffee.

JAN/FEB18

HOMETIME

PROPERTY WATCH

my local Lisa Jackson is the general manager of Jules B Ladieswear and the Zen lifestyle store in Kendal. Lisa has been with Jules B for nine years and knows her stuff when it comes to living the luxe life in this Cumbrian market town.

WITH DUNCAN YOUNG

Three good things about living here >> • The views over the town and the fells from Kendal Castle are stunning and there are clear paths for walks around the castle. Good one for the kids (and big kids!) to re-live a bit of medieval history in a beautiful setting! • Kendal has some fabulous bars and restaurants (you’ve earned yourself a pint after that walk up to the castle) - including Thai, Mexican and Italian. • The accessibility to the Lakes and fells. Jump in the car and drive over to Scout Scar and take in some of the best views in the Lake District. On a clear day, you get an incredible view of at least 100 Lake District fells and a full 180 degree view all the way from Morecombe right across the Lyth Valley. Three places to take visitors >> • Masons Yard for Wine Wednesday! This restaurant is newly opened and is absolutely fabulous. The bar offers gins and wines and the restaurant a seasonal menu. • Go for a walk along the River Kent. The path snakes its way along the river through some beautiful gardens, eventually leading to K Village outlet centre. • The Riverside Spa on a rainy day. You can get a day pass and relax in the pool, steam room and sauna, or use the excellent facilities in the state of the art gym. An ‘in-the-know’ secret >> We get many celebrities passing through Kendal as they make their way up to the Lake District for their holidays, including Sir Anthony Hopkins, Steve Backshall and Mr David Hasselhoff. Yes, the Hoff has been to Kendal! Keep your eyes peeled, who knows you might see… www.julesb.co.uk

property: three to choose Prime purchase Hylands is a fine examples of 20th century design and construction. This nine bedroom detached house was constructed by Abraham Pattinson of Windermere for his own use in 1910 and sits in a prestigious part of Kendal in 2.3 acres. It’s private, it’s pristine and it has easy access to the town centre. £1,400,000 www.scottbainbridge.co.uk

Country cottage A chic, country cottage set in a perfectly picturesque position on the edge of Burneside, a small rural village close to Kendal. Little Whitefoot is a four bedroom property bursting with original character and charm. It has been extended to create a large, sociable family kitchen as the heart of the home, with a handy utility area and a deluxe master bedroom suite upstairs. £745,000 www.fineandcountry.com

Victorian charm An elegant Victorian home on Sedbergh Road, Kendal. This four bedroom detached property is in a highly sought after location and benefits from extensive gardens of around a third of an acre, detached garage and ample parking. A skilful refurbishment means this home is perfect for family living in a great location within walking distance to Kendal town centre. £750,000 www.michael-cl-hodgson.co.uk

JAN/FEB18

AN EXCITING NEW YEAR IN NEW HOMES Here at Sanderson Young we’re looking forward to 2018 with a number of new and exciting developments to launch to the market. The feeling we have from our developer clients is very positive and it is so encouraging to see developers investing in our region. The recent budget announcements are great news for the North East of England with £1 billion likely to be invested in the Tyne and Wear Metro, as well as the former Steelworks in Redcar. These are all very significant announcements. The removal of stamp duty for first time buyers up to £300,000 and the commitment to raising new homes being built from 217,000 this year, to 300,000 homes next year, all provides good news. There is no doubt that the average age of those buying their first home has significantly increased in the last ten years and any positive measures which help younger people to buy their own home is to be applauded. We hope that the continuing influence of Help to Buy will encourage those who are currently renting a home to gain their first step on the housing ladder. Sanderson Young has specialist knowledge through our mortgage and finance colleagues, as well as our new homes experts, in supporting those wanting to buy for the first time. We have a number of new homes sites which are ideal for the first time buyer, with townhouses at Hallgarth Mews in Winlaton priced from £168,950. We are also excited to be working towards the launch of ‘Fab’ House at Smiths Dock in early March. The design of these houses is very contemporary and we know that they will complement the units already built at the Plateau. Smiths Dock is an amazing project and is now really taking shape with the construction of Smokehouse which will deliver a mix of 1, 2 and 3 bed apartments, many enjoying river views. The investment from PFP and Urban Splash in the scheme will see the area around North Shields fish quay improve further over the next year. Northumberland is also seeing some inspiring new sites emerge in 2018 and we are delighted to be working with Lindisfarne Homes in the sale of a number of schemes across the region. Prime development sites at Watershaugh Gate in Warkworth, and Foxton Glade in Lesbury will continue to showcase high quality development. Elsewhere in Northumberland we are proud to have been appointed to work alongside Dere Street Homes at Longhirst Hall, north of Morpeth. This scheme provides a stunning conversion of the former Longhirst Hotel and conference centre. The conversion element has some truly stunning properties which enjoy bespoke features, landscaped grounds and a tranquil setting, just minutes from the new Morpeth bypass. As we move towards Spring 2018 we are very excited to be working on an amazing development at Coldingham Bay in Berwickshire. With spectacular sea views, the scheme will include two magnificent, minimalist, 3-storey, detached villas which will each house four fabulous apartments. Closer to home we are delighted to be working with Ascent Homes on their forthcoming scheme at Orchard Dene in Jesmond. This development will comprise eleven four and five bedroom detached luxury homes. After many years of not seeing much development in the city centre, we are thrilled to be working on a city centre project which has the potential to deliver well designed apartments and regenerate an area of the city. As with many new homes projects, schemes often take time to develop, and we love to work with our clients to ensure that the homes that are delivered are the best they can be and meet the buyer’s expectations. After all, we know how difficult it can be to get on the ladder or move up it, so getting the right home, whether you are buying for the first or the tenth time, in the city or the country, each buyer hopes to get it right. In 2018 we hope that we can work with our clients and buyers to make the forthcoming year a success for us all.

Duncan G Young Managing Director Sanderson Young duncan.young@sandersonyoung.co.uk

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East Glade Marchburn Lane, Riding Mill East Glade is a striking, newly constructed home by Dockleaf Developments, designed to an extremely impressive specification. The property stands elevated, in grounds of circa 1 acre, and large glass panels provide stunning south facing views, flooding the house with natural light.

Price Guide £1.05 Million Ashleigh Sundin ashleigh.sundin@sandersonyoung.co.uk rare! Office: 0191 223 3500 From Sanderson Young

www.sandersonyoung.co.uk

Westoe Grange Westoe Village, South Shields

Westoe Grange is a substantial, mid-terraced house dating back to late 1700s/early 1800s, in the heart of a fabulous conservation area. This Grade II Listed property has been renovated and extended by the current owners and has approx 4500 sq ft of accommodation and stunning gardens.

Price Guide: £789,000 Ashleigh Sundin ashleigh.sundin@sandersonyoung.co.uk rare! Office: 0191 223 3500 From Sanderson Young

www.sandersonyoung.co.uk

HAPPY 2018 • Just some of the great success stories that got our clients moving in 2017. New stock of all house types required.

Contact: 0191 3842277

ABBEY VIEW, DURHAM CITY

• If you would like to join our success in 2018 then please call us for a free market appraisal or register on our database.

Contact: 01740 645444

GARDEN HOUSE, WYNYARD

• Quality homes need quality people to realise their full potential.

www.fineandcountry.com

local, regional, national and international specialists in property marketing

Durham 0191 384 2277

Darlington 01325 488 619

Wynyard 01740 645 444

info@durhamfineandcountry.co.uk

info@wynyardfineandcountry.co.uk

• We have the skills, the contacts and unique local and national knowledge to sell your home.

D L O

STATION HOUSE, BRANCEPETH, DURHAM CITY

Contact: 0191 3842277

• Our enthusiastic and professional friendly staff achieve the results to get you moving.

D L O

TOLLGATE, CASTLE EDEN, DURHAM

Contact: 0191 3842277

• Don’t just take our word for it ! “The Fine and Country team were friendly, reliable, extremely knowledgeable about the area and most importantly extremely professional throughout the sale of my property’’ creative and intelligent marketing of individual and country property

TONE UP

EXTRA TIME

with George Friend Whether you’ve indulged over Christmas, or managed to eat modestly, it’s always a smart idea to get those endorphins flowing through exercise come the New Year... Below are five simple steps to a January fitness regime. I carry out these exercises daily. They may seem relatively simple, but if done regularly with a good intensity, your core will become strong and your muscles toned. Only one piece of equipment and some New Year motivation are needed to complete this rewarding session.

1. Warm up Use the ball as a massage tool to release any tight muscles. With the ball in your hands, bend at the hips and roll it forwards and backwards, keeping your arms and legs straight, stretching the hamstrings.

2. Multiple controlled squats Holding the ball out in line with the chest, maintain a squat position (legs roughly at a right angle) for 10 seconds. Then, from the same position, dip the hips into a deeper squat than 90 degrees (10 short pulses). Finally, 10 full squats moving the ball from chest position to above your head as your legs go into extension.

3. Lunge with twist With the ball held against your chest/upper abdomen, drive one leg forward into a lunge position. Once the knee reaches 90 degrees, press the ball out in line with the chest and twist your upper body, maintaining the same ball and leg position. Push weight through front heel and stabilise as balance is tested then drive back up into standing. Complete eight on each leg (if you have a partner, the twist can be a throw and catch while in lunge position).

4. Abdominals With the ball between your knees, squeezing 50 percent, crunch up through your abs making sure your back remains flat to the floor (this prevents any stress to your spine). Set of 10, rest, then repeat. Adopt the same position, but this time reach over to one side leaving one elbow in contact with the floor. This will focus on the oblique muscles. Set of five each side, rest, then repeat.

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5. Press up Roll the ball across your body from your left hand to right, in between each repetition, forcing the body the hold strong as core is tested, while pushing through the arms and chest. 10 in total.

Using a football to perform the exercises may seem insignificant, but it’s imperative to the regime, as it helps maintain form and concentration throughout. JAN/FEB18

WRAP UP

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MAN KIT

The Urban Hike The morning trek from Metro, railway station or your front door. Get the gear to make it easy Wax urban backpack, £169, www.barbour.co.uk

Handstich microfibre jacket, £487.99, www.julesb.co.uk

Kiehl’s Facial Fuel No-Shine Moisturizing Lip Balm, £9.50, www.kiehls.co.uk Bose Soundtrue headphones, £199.95, www.bose.co.uk

Newbrough tartan glove, £59.95, www.barbour.co.uk Thorndale backpack, £359, www.horndale.co.uk

Redwing classic boots, £249, www.redwinglondon.com

JAN/FEB18

www.luxe-magazine.co.uk 85

ALL-TERRAIN

Adventure calls

Feeling need for some adventure in 2018? Let Special Forces and Military Cross hero Steve Heaney be your guide – literally taking you to unchartered territory to test endurance to the extreme. Kathryn Armstrong finds out more Adventurous souls like of Bear Grylls and Ray Mears may have corned ‘adventure and exploration’ on our TV screens but Teessider Steve Heaney is the real deal. Awarded a Military Cross, covert special forces operations expert and more near-death experiences than he cares to remember. Just a hint of his perilous life to date. He’s written it all down in two best-selling books and a film of one is in production in Hollywood (the name Tom Hardy is being bandied about). Steve has teamed up with lifelong friend Andrew Gallagher, a music business executive whose life has plenty of hairy moments of a different kind, to set up X Platoon.While Steve brings an elite training and special forces survival background to the business, Andrew adds a bit of showbiz – and together they promise to take willing participants on unparallelled adventures –

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in unchartered territory. X Platoon is an elite wilderness training, adventure and survival company which aims to draw people away from electronic screens and place them back into the natural world, equipping them with a Special Forces knowledge of successfully operating in a wild environment. It works on many levels – from small groups on intrepid adventures in the world’s most hostile environments – jungle, arctic, desert through to interaction with schools, families and corporate adventurers. Steve is the calm and calculated one. After leaving the forces he worked as a security advisor to the United Arab Emirates government before working as a bodyguard for a well-known and influential family in London. Andrew was the creative party boy, the DJ, music producer and promoter who launched many many dance acts with his own record label. They make an engaging team having stayed friends since

JAN/FEB18

ALL-TERRAIN schooldays despite their uniquely different career paths. X Platoon has just opened a massive private camp in North Yorkshire which features a Special Forces-designed remote wilderness training camp, a 21 obstacle assault course and also a huge barn which has been converted into Operations HQ. From there they are plotting the next intrepid adventure – and inviting people to join them. Says Andrew: “In the light of our shared experience and knowledge, combined with the growing notoriety of Steve, we are very aware there is a much bigger opportunity to be realised. “X Platoon is being set up so people can live the ethos of the special forces. People who come on our trips

– it will be in the north of Sweden, some 300km north of the famous Ice Hotel. A group of around 16 people arrive (full safety briefings are given and the support team includes Special Forces medics) and then head off on snowmobiles through 40km of extreme tundra. The groups stay in camps like those of the Sami people and activities include fishing through ice, a 140km dog ‘mushing’ sessions with sledges. “You are working with people who have lived in this environment”, says Steve. “It is paced so that you are learning life lessons, it is action-packed but there is plenty of time to breathe. Our hope is that people have a catalogue of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, wrapped up in fun, in the sharing of stories

Steve Heaney MC, arguably the most authentic survivalist in the UK. Born in Middlesbrough, Steve enlisted into the British Army in 1986 at 16, undergoing rigorous training to join the elite Parachute Regiment. Having served for 3 years with 3 PARA (a highly disciplined and professionally competent force, deployable by helicopter, aeroplane or parachute), Steve joined the Pathfinders, a covert unit within the airborne forces that officially ‘did not exist’. Aged only 20 he became the youngest soldier ever to gain entry into the unit. Whilst serving with the Pathfinders Steve saw active service in Northern Ireland, Central America, Kosovo and Sierra Leone. In 2000 during an operation to rescue British passport holders and other personnel trapped in Sierra Leone’s capital, Freetown, Steve led a team of 26 soldiers against a rebel force numbering 2,000 fighters, in a 16 day siege that ended in a vicious close quarter battle in a remote jungle village. For his actions during and after the battle, Steve was awarded the Military Cross; becoming the first NonCommissioned Officer in the unit’s history to receive the award. After leaving the military in 2001 Steve went to work as a Senior Military and Internal Security Advisor to the United Arab Emirates Government. Steve’s role was to provide advice and training solutions to both their Armed Forces and their National Police Service, specialising in Counter Terrorism, Internal Security, Crisis Management and Border Control Operations; a position he held for 13 years. Since returning to the UK he has worked with high performance corporate and sports organisations on topics such as leadership, motivation, mental/physical resilience and team building, he also developed a programme for schools to assist with students who require support with discipline, behaviour and emotional welfare. Steve has written two books; both Sunday Times best sellers and a major feature film telling his story in Sierra Leone is currently underway. In light of their shared experience and knowledge, combined with the growing notoriety of Steve they are very aware there is a much bigger opportunity to be realised. X Platoon is being set up as a commercial enterprise to fulfil this.

Andrew Gallagher, also

Groups stay in camps like those of the Sami people and activities include fishing through ice, and a 140km dog ‘mushing’ sessions with sledges throw themselves into it, push and challenge themselves – these are bucket list adventures. “We offer something very different to Ray Mears and Bear Grylls - our courses focus on the attendees not the leader. We have introductory courses covering the basics through to full blown International Adventures where attendees will get the chance to experience our planet’s wide, varied and punishing climates.” The forthcoming adventure in Sweden promises to be harsh

JAN/FEB18

around a fire with a shared meal, often under the stars”, he adds. Andrew adds; “Steve has done that intrepid stuff so you are getting a very authentic experience with people who have been in the Paras, the SAS, supported by army medics. There is a ratio of 2:1 so you will get a great deal of hands-on learning.” www.XPlatoon.com

born in Middlesbrough, made his career in the music business working with some of the most famous DJs and Club brands in the world. He has sold out fifty major dance events across the world then set up an independent record company which went on to sell more than 3 million albums: 13 Gold, 8 Silver and Two Platinum disc awards. At Sony Music he headed up their Dance Music Division, signing relatively unknown club brands and selling more than 750,000 albums through them in his first year for the company. Throughout his career he has been involved in nearly every area of entertainment business; from launching merchandising to TV format development.

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nd indemnities may be required. You must be at least 18 and a UK resident (excluding the Isle of Man and Channel Islands). Model shown for illustration purposes. Metallic paint available at extra cost. Terms ers not available in conjunction with any schemes or other offers. Vehicle price includes first registration fee and 12 months’ road fund licence and delivery costs. Infiniti Europe Division of Nissan International nd may not represent real-life driving results (which vary depending on driving behaviour, conditions and other factors). *Winner of European Customer Experience Award.

LUXE LAPS

STEVEN STIPETIC

Steven Stipetic, 51, is owner of bathroom design business Hobson Interiors with showrooms in Darlington, Burnopfield and Westerhope. The dad-of-three lives in Lamesley with wife Karen

CHILDHOOD CAR CRUSH >> I actually didn’t have one - I wanted to be a lorry driver when I was little, it’s quite funny looking back now. If I had to pick it would have been the Aston Martin but now my car crush is a Bentley, that’s my next dream car! WHAT’S IN THE GARAGE NOW >> The Aston Martin Vantage. I always wanted one and I never ever thought I would actually get one; when it came to choosing one I didn’t even mind which one I got, it didn’t matter if it was a Vanquish or a DB9, I just wanted it to be an Aston Martin. It is an iconic car to have! I’ve had it for three years and have changed the colour a couple times with wraps, but I love the way it is now. My wife Karen doesn’t like it, she says you can’t fit any shopping in the boot and it’s really low down! I also have a Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupé in black and the same car for Karen in white, his and hers! It’s automatic, nine-speed gear box and really comfortable; it drives really smoothly and is a bit more practical than the Aston. My son Liam has got himself a Mercedes-Benz too.

90 www.luxe-magazine.co.uk

CAPTAIN SLOW OR JEREMY >> Definitely like Jeremy! Fast, but only when I’m on my own. My youngest daughter Kate doesn’t like me taking her to school in the Aston Martin though, she gets embarrassed! She doesn’t mind the Mercedes, I think it is a little more discreet. WHO SHOULD PRESENT TOP GEAR >> Clarkson 100%, without a doubt! TRACKS OF YOUR TYRES >> I like a bit of everything and anything but it depends on how I’m feeling if I fancy something a bit upbeat or chilled out. I love Prince’s Purple Rain and the Bee Gees. Sometimes I slip some Neil Diamond on. Summer Nights is my ultimate favourite though, it was the first record I ever bought with the money I made from selling tatties! DREAM ROAD TRIP >> I said to Karen a few weeks back, I would love to throw the bags in the boot of the car and travel all the way through France and see places off the beaten track all the way down to Cannes, to the Riviera and to Italy. I would love to do

something like that with no time limit and stay in lovely hotels on the way. WHO WITH >> My wife Karen! WHAT’S IN THE GLOVE BOX >> I always have about two, three pairs of sunglasses in there; my favourite are Hugo Boss at the moment. They have to be good ones, I never had anything growing up so now I can afford things I like to treat myself to everything I like now. I’ve gone from one extreme to the other but I have worked really hard for everything I have. HOW CLEAN IS YOUR CAR >> Very clean, the valet comes to the the factory every Friday. Karen bought me a Karcher device one Christmas and I hadn’t had the Aston Martin very long. One Sunday morning, I reluctantly thought I would give it a clean so I was scrubbing it with the brush and all the foam and realised while doing one side it was actually scratching it! I had to go get it all polished out. So yeah, the valet comes every Friday now.

JAN/FEB18

LEXUS LOVE

Bob Arora

AT THE WHEEL

Hey, good-looking... Lexus LC charms its way in Bob Arora’s steely heart

I was amazed to read Lexus have been around for 28 years, they launched the LS which was aimed squarely at the Mercedes S Class. It wasn’t the most beautiful looking-car but it was filled with gadgets and they were always the most reliable cars around. Add to this a level of customer service that just didn’t exist it was easy to see just how they made a name for themselves. In America, the brand just went from strength to strength; it took a while for them to do as well over here though. As I’ve mentioned before the reliability of the cars helped them top the all-important JD Powers survey year after year. In recent years Lexus have been accused of building very boring cars, they built what can only be described as a supercar. The LFA is a very, very rare sight but Jeremy Clarkson even said it was the best car he’d ever driven. Coming from him that’s a real compliment! Unfortunately, given the price and the limited availability it’s not a car you’re going to see every day. Toyota’s Chief Executive Akido Toyoda is a keen racing driver and even he has been telling the designers just how boring the styling is. At the Detroit motor show he even quoted owners who’d

The Lexus LC is a really stunning looking and downright beautiful car

JAN/FEB18

written letters to him saying how much they loved the cars and brand but they just wished they were funkier in terms of styling. Taking the letters and comments to heart, he said he didn’t want the words boring and Lexus to occupy the same sentence ever again. This brings me to the car I’ve recently had the real pleasure in driving. The Lexus LC is a really stunning looking and downright beautiful car. It’s not being called a sports car but it is more of a Grand Tourer and I would say it’s real competitor is the BMW 6 Series and possibly even the Mercedes SL although the SL has the option to drop its top. Akido must have been proud of the designers as they have created a truly stunning looking car; another area where Lexus normally fail in my book is the interior. They tend to be nowhere near as stylish as Audi’s but with this car the designers have really got the brief. The car is full of high quality leather and suede. From the clock in the middle of the dash to the navigation and infotainment screen, it just screams quality. The buttons and stalks have a real quality feel, the designers have upped their game and I really hope the rest of the range get beautiful interiors. Lexus continues to use a touch pad-style controller for the navigation, it’s really fiddly and very hard to use. BMW’s iDrive system is much better and easier all day long. The car’s speakers are something else, the sound quality was extraordinary. They are supplied by Mark Levinson. The speedometer can be moved around and if you have the hybrid version you can see how the brakes help charge the battery and it’s interesting to drive the car on electric before the engine kicks in. I know it’s sad but you know what they say about small things! The car is a 2+2 but the rear seats are OK

for small children, I didn’t even attempt to try and get into the back of the car. I would personally use the space for carrying bags or shopping. The boot isn’t massive but there is enough room for a couple of overnight bags. To help give the car nearly 50/50 weight distribution Lexus have used composite metals, carbon fibre and aluminium. The car’s battery has been fitted to the boot and the spare wheel has been

4.7 seconds. With the smaller engine and the Hybrid engineering the car returns 31mpg. The Sport+ tops the range and the sunroof is ditched for a Carbon roof, rear wheel steering also makes this car much sharper to drive. Lexus aren’t expecting to sell loads of these cars so again it’ll be a rare sight on the roads, I think they’ve got 250 to sell for the year I’m sure my friend Andrew Clark will do his best to find you

ditched all to save weight. Owners have the choice of two engines, a 5lt V8 produces 467bhp and it has a top speed of 168mph and it gets to 62mph in 4.4 seconds. Amazingly for a two tonne car it’ll return around 24mpg. Lexus have fitted this car with a 10-speed automatic box. The other engine option is a 3.5lt V6 which also has an electric motor, this produces 354bhp and it has a top speed of 155mph and it gets to 62mph in

one if you’re in the market for one of these lovely cars. The LC is priced from £77k to £86k and yes, I know that’s not cheap, but you are getting a car that gets people stopping and pointing and taking pictures every time you stop at the traffic lights. With this car you’re getting not only a beautifullooking car but it it’ll be reliable and the customer service is second to none. Car courtesy of Lexus Newcastle.

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CITY SASS

Smooth operator Bob Arora gets up close and friendly with VW’s new power-player, the Arteon

The last large expensive VW saloon I remember driving was the Phaeton. This huge and expensive car was aimed at stealing sales away from the Mercedes S Class, it was full of tech and gadgets but it just didn’t sell in the numbers VW expected it would. I suppose where I’m coming from is if you mention buying a VW most people instantly think Golf or Polo AKA ‘people cars’ and not great big expensive luxo barges! In its defence the Phaeton was as good as the S class with excellent engineering. The chairman of VW, Ferdinand Piech decided to take on the S Class because Mercedes announced it wanted to introduce

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the A Class to compete with VW. Mr Piech had a list of parameters he wanted his designers to fulfil, one of the more interesting things he wanted was the car to be able to be driven all day at 300kmp while it was 50c outside and he wanted the cars internal temperature to be 22c. Unfortunately even with all of this engineering and technology, the Phaeton just didn’t steal many sales away from Mercedes and it was quietly dropped from the range. VW’s latest foray into a new market is with the beautiful looking Arteon, this stunning looking car is firmly aimed at the BMW 4 series and the A5 sport back. This car gives you a glimpse of how all new VW’s will look

in the future, the Arteon is the new successor to the Passat CC, not only is it longer and slightly wider but it is also very luxurious indeed, though there is a £5k premium over the CC. The car I drove was the R Line version and it was very sporty looking indeed and the car’s interior was up there with its competitors. The dash is dominated by a large touchscreen Sat Nav and infotainment system. I loved the new digital dashboard,

the car also has ApplePlay and you can have hours of fun safely sending and listening to messages while you’re driving. The car is available with a choice of two diesel engines or two petrol engines, at the moment a 2lt petrol engine tops the range. All Arteon’s are fwd but the range-topping cars have the option of four wheel drive. I drove the excellent 2lt diesel which is expected to be the best selling engine in the range. The 148bhp gets the car to

The car is a great long distance cruiser and motorway miles are handled with ease, my car had the optional panoramic roof which helped make the interior very light and airy JAN/FEB18

CITY SASS 62mph in 9.1 seconds and its top speed is 137mph, the engines trump card is its excellent economy, most owners should expect to get 60 miles per gallon. My car was fitted with the optional DCC which is priced at £820. If you’ve opted for the rather nice looking 20” alloys it also helps with the cars ride quality. The car is a great long distance cruiser and motorway miles are handled with ease. My car had the optional panoramic roof which helped make the interior very light and airy. The pillar-less doors not only look great but thankfully due to good cabin sealing there was very little wind noise indeed. Another great feature for long distance drivers is the cruise control; you set the speed and the distance you want to keep between the cars in front of you. The system is so good all you’ve got to do is steer the car and the braking and accelerating is all done for you. Another great feature has to be the speed limit is displayed on the navigation screen; it’s great if you are driving in a new area. The car also features emergency braking at speeds up to 19mph; this is usually the speed at which most accidents occur. The

system can be fooled but on a whole it’s a great safety feature. Passengers sitting in the rear of the car have slightly less headroom than the people up front. That has to be due to the car’s styling and the rear slope. Boot space is ok for most people, with the seats up there is 563ltrs

of boot space and with the seats down this jumps up to 1557ltrs. If your hands are full and the car detects the key a simple wave of your foot under the boot opens it. In a nutshell I think Imelda Marcos would get all of her shoes in the car with the seats down after one of her legendary shopping trips! The car is available in two trim choices, either Elegance or R Line. All cars have the active info display, leather upholstery; three zone climate control, LED headlights and

GPS aided adaptive cruise control. The base Arteon is priced from £31k and this jumps up to £39k for the range topping 4 motion 2lt Petrol. After driving this car for a couple of days I really didn’t want to give the keys back. If you do plenty of motorway driving or you’re after a stylish looking car then look no further as this car ticks all the boxes. Car courtesy of VW Scotswood Rd, Newcastle

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To find out more, please contact the team on 0191 908 1658 or visit www.lloydnewcastlebmw.co.uk/cars/x-series/x2 Lloyd Newcastle Barrack Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne & Wear NE2 4LE Official fuel economy figures for the new BMW X2: Urban 54.3mpg (5.2 l/100km). Extra Urban 65.7mpg (4.3 l/100km). Combined 61.4mpg (4.6 l/100km). CO2 emissions 121g/km. Figures are obtained in a standardised test cycle. They are intended for comparisons between vehicles

and may not be representative of what a user achieves under usual driving conditions.

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TRAVEL FOR GROUPS

In association with:

luxe:looks Tilly, Bailey, Irvine Law Firm Reception, Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle Below > Tony Jackson, Dawn Jackson

Break out the fizz. Time to get down to some people-spotting as we bring you our social snapshot of happenings across the North East. Eyes and teeth time!

Festive Shopping Evening, Aston Martin, Newcastle Above > Angus Watson, Nicola Smith, Tom Smith Below > Bev Redhead, Nicola Howard, Anne Hughlock, Molly the puppy, Katie Gilfillian

Above > Marty Moore, Shona Harper-Wilks, Ellie Gilbert Above > Peter Jackson, Martin Brown

Above > Helen Warrier, Paul Murphy Below > Gary McCauley, Paul Thursby, Sharon McCauley

Above > Joan White and Nick Tilly Above > Wendy Beacom, Elizabeth Thompson

Below > Andrew Beattie, Sharon Williams

Below > Caroline Peacock, Jonathan Peacock

Above > Divina Beeby, Peter Ather, Angus Watson, Chris Fox Below > George Scragg, Nick Scragg

Below > Carolyn Tilly, Joss Conner Above > David Sparrow, Suzanne Sparrow Above > Heather Clow, Tony Barley, Gary Trotter

Above > Lorraine McMullon, Peter McMullon

Swinton Country Club & Spa Grand Opening Party, Masham, North Yorkshire Below > Kate Sidebottom, Ryan Sidebottom

Above > John Tennant, Susan Tennant, Sir Gary Verity, Sarah Mills

Below > Sue Theakston, Sarah Jameson, Lucy Scott Paul, Lara Theakston

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Above > Mark Cunliffe-Lister, Felicity Cunliffe-Lister

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Above > Allanah Bourne-Arton, Pat Greensit

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SOCIAL LIFE

Lumiere Reception, Town Hall, Durham Hadrian School Fund-raiser, Hilton NewcastleGateshead

Below > Erin Boyle, Sarah Jane Stephenson, Laura Neill

Below > Caroll Pattison, Arley Stallard

Above > Claire Grylls, Paul Grylls

Above > George Clarke, Dean King

Below > Ozzy Johnson, Jean Chaplow, Bill Kellit Above > Chris Caswell, Valerie Wilson

Above > Colin Carney, Ashley Carney, Emma Hodgeson, Karen Berry, Arthur Hodgeson Below > Carolyn Ramsbotham, Andrew Davison, James Ramsbotham

Below > Simon Goon, Graham Moore

Above > Anne-Marie Lacey, Lee Lacey Below > Matt Marshall, Danielle Smith, Gareth Haikney, Gill Marthbank, Nic Marshall, Mandy Parkinson, Dean Kinch, Kiel Watson, Lee Candler, Richard Croston

Above > Anita Rice, Felicity Landale, Nawal Ali Above > Lauren Thompson, Rachel Kaczniar

Above > Janet Wilkinson, Sharon Hall, Susan McGowan, Marion Brown, Sonia Scott, Christine Wood Below > Rebecca Rankin, Sophie Flanigan

Above > Nichola English, Helen Warriner, Jayne Parsley Walsh, Judith Harding, Claire Talbot Jones

Below > Wayne Billany, Lynne Waterman, Jordon Tyer

Above > Mick Martindale, Stu Banks, Margaret Craddock, David McGeorge, Phil Lenier, James Robson, Leigh Foulger, Graeme Parkins, Richard Bradley, Richard Larder

Reception for Harrison Centre for Social Mobility, Walwick Hall, Northumberland Below > Jamie Wright, Claire Wilson

Below > Patricia Murrey, James Robinson, Bev Nelson, Anthony Braithwaite

Above > Fiona Sample, Malcolm Macdonald

Below > Rhona Warcup, David Simpson

Above > Sarah Potter, Robert Gardener, Kate Bradley, Stephen Bell

TRAVEL FOR GROUPS

get together with the girls JAN/FEB18

AIRPORT TRANSFERS SOCIAL OUTINGS BUSINESS TRAVEL

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SOCIAL LIFE

Festive Afternoon for Children North East, Biscuit Factory, Newcastle

Below > Jo Stott, Kelly Allison

Below > Angela McCabe, Ashton Smith, Nicola Schofield, Tracey Dale

Above > Deb Young, Nicola Boar, Anne Shearing, Beverley Graham, Claire Johnson, Judith Cassells

Above > Emma Snowdon, Carol Taylor

Middlesbrough & Teesside Philanthropic Foundation Ladies’ Lunch, Rudby Hall

Above > Wendy Sloan, Aileen Smith

Above > Sue Best, Ruth Dodds

Darlington Town Mission Charity Party, Northern Echo Arena, Darlington

Below > Julia Bean, Guy Mason

Below > Hannah Ross, Jayne Stephenson, Lauren Fox

Above > Elena Bausor, Julia Bean, Bev Hudson, Scarlet Hudson

Below > Karen Jewkes, Justin Jewkes

Above > Adrienne Stark, Sue Hunter

Below > Ian Darbo, Colin Moir, Jerry Crow, Nigel Massey, Philip Haymara

Above > Jane Leese, Mel Fletcher, Al Fletcher

Above > Ange Wilson, Chantal Lauper, Maxine Freer Below > Zoe Tweddle, Janine Craig

Above > Eunice Craig, David Dobson, Lorraine Ellison, Robert Dunkley

Below > Judy Hirst, Andy Hirst Above > Julie Bradley, Louise Hall, Pauline Kinnear

Above > Peter Jones, Leslie Jones, Nikki Kelly, Pete Young, Jim Young, Rosie Young Above > Emma Kelly-Wilson, Kellie Gibson

Daisy Chain Winter Ball, Hardwick Hall Hotel, Sedgefield

Above > Janet Penman, Mel Penman

Below > Steve Smith, Rachel Smith

Below > Paul Good, Sue Waller

Below > Stewart Walker, Lesley Walker

Below > Joe Nicholson, Moira Nicholson, David Nicholson, Emily Nicholson

Above > Lilly Scott, Nick Cooke, Jo Cooke, Emily Millington

Above > Sian Davies, Stuart Davies

TRAVEL FOR GROUPS

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AIRPORT TRANSFERS SOCIAL OUTINGS BUSINESS TRAVEL

JAN/FEB18

The Passport Dinner, Crab Manor, Asenby

Above > Phil Howe, Tania Howe

Above > Alison Tyreman, Paul Tyreman

Above > James Hughes, Kelly Hughes, Lyndsie Porthouse, Gary Porthouse

say halo AIRPORT TRANSFERS

Below > Steve Shorthouse, Bev Shorthouse

Below > Andrew Ramsey, Yasmin Ramsey

SOCIAL OUTINGS BUSINESS TRAVEL

Above > Joanne Hudson, Mark Hudson Below > Jackie Plowman, Phil Plowman

Above > Sarah Heppell, Hannah Musgrove

Diamonds and Divas for Graham Wylie Foundation, Hilton, NewcastleGateshead Below > Sarah Binks, Hilary Stafford, Julie Hardey

Below > Karen Knaggs, Hayley Ramm

Above > Katy Edgar, Lindsey Rivington, Rachael Garr Below > Suzanne McCreedy, Claire Hildreth, Margaret Emmonds, Debi Coldwell, Janet Blaney Below > Lynsey Harper, Petra Wood, Rebecca Chapman, Donna-Marie Walker Above > Sophie Mutrie, Ellise Binney, Steph MacDougall, Ellye Williams Below > Katherine Casey-Oxford, Allison Keenan

TRAVEL FOR GROUPS

Above > Lynne Hay, Laura Di Palma, Margaret Di Palma

(0191) 338 8188 Let’s see you! If you would like your event featured on our Luxe:Looks pages please supply images with full captions (We Transfer or Dropbox is best) to: kathryn@remembermedia.co.uk

JAN/FEB18

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PARTING SHOT

Luxe loves a landmark>> 50 issues of Luxe has been all about bringing you tales of inspiring people. Here’s to the next 50. Happy 2018 to you all!

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