Luxe issue 87 - May/Jun 24

LOCAL HERO. Race days. SUMMER STYLE. Luxe lingerie. OCEAN ADVENTURES. Kitchen comforts. LAKESIDE LIVING. Garden party. BEAUTIFUL SPACES. Top watches. BEACH CLUBS. Hot wheels. LITTLE MOMENTS. Cool kit. LUXE.

SET MENU

Our mid-season magazines are always a joy to produce. We’ve waved goodbye to the season left behind, and we’re excited about the prospects of the next. And this time, summer is on the horizon!

This issue is packed with plenty of inspiration to make the sunny season count; from race season highlights and Father’s Day activities, to arty happenings including the North Yorkshire Open Studios.

We’ve been out and about sampling menus at some of the finest restaurants on our doorstep and we’re preparing for garden party season with sips and style ideas.

We’ve got lush lingerie, holiday kit lists, sea dipping inspiration and a really lovely chat with Janey Lowes - the Newcastle vet who has been saving street dogs in Sri Lanka for 10 years.

All of that, plus staycations and vacations that are luxe in equal measure, a focus on the world of watches, and a local hero gracing our May/June cover. We’re delighted to dedicate this issue to the marvellous Mark Knopfler.

We hope you can read this issue in your garden - birds tweeting, sun beating down and a glass of the good stuff!

Remember to check in with us online at luxe-magazine.co.uk

See us on social at:

Instagram: @theluxemagazine

Facebook: @luxemag

Christopher March publisher chris@allies-group.com

EDITORIAL

Elysia Fryer editor editor@luxe-magazine.co.uk

Nicole Wood nicole@allies-group.com

Caroline Dask caroline@allies-group.com

SALES

Debi Coldwell director debi@allies-group.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

Kevin Gibson info@kgphotography.co.uk

Nicky Rogerson nicky@kgphotography.co.uk

Cover image: Terry Blackburn

DESIGN

David Stubbs creative director dave@allies-group.com

Euan Underwood euan@allies-group.com

If you wish to advertise with us please contact our sales team: Debi Coldwell: debi@allies-group.com / 07910 918366 THE

Janey Lowes is a vet with a big heart. She left behind her life in Newcastle to set up WECare Worldwide, treating and transforming the lives of street dogs in Sri Lanka. Her luxe things in life include: three million Sri Lankan street dogs (that counts as one, right?), a bottomless bag of Wotsits and Shiseido sunscreen for days spent chasing waves on the beach.

Mark Dolder is CEO of Bazaar Group, headquartered in Cramlington with a turnover of £15m. His luxe things in life include: spending quality time with family and friends, having the drive to do well in life, and a natural curiosity in the world and what makes it go round.

Marta Bujwicka-Colman’s journey has taken her from a pretty village in Poland, to lush landscapes in North Yorkshire. She has her inspiring grandmother and the nature that surrounds her to thank for her beautiful lingerie brand, Aberdevine. Her luxe things in life include: spending time in nature with family and friends, Japanese Sencha green tea and a silk eye mask made by her grandmother.

contents

10>> The agenda

Diaries at the ready...

14>> Fashion & fixtures

Race day highlights

20>> Culture tour

Enjoy the North Yorkshire Open Studios

24>> Tropical vet

Getting to know Janey Lowes

26>> Coming home

A chat with Mark Knopfler

30>> Luxe fashion

Hellessy’s spring/summer campaign

37>> Watch shop

Metrocentre’s guide to watch shopping

44>> Luxe lingerie

Timeless elegance with Aberdevine

54>> Celebrating Yorkshire

A recent visit to Homestead Kitchen

58>> Super staycation

An indulgent getaway at Langdale Chase

68>> Hot property

Inside a stunning Northumberland self-build

74>> Electric avenue

Bob gets behind the wheel of the BMW iX2

78>> Father’s Day fix

How to make it a luxe occasion

80>> Social diary

Smile for the camera

Scan our QR code and keep up-to-date with the latest luxe moments.

LUXE TEAM

The agenda: spring/summer highlights >>

Diary dates to kickstart a season of fun in the North East…

ARTS & CULTURE

Turner: Art, Industry & Nostalgia

FROM 10 MAY

This exhibition, displaying at the Laing Art Gallery from 10 May, will include over 20 works by Joseph Mallord William Turnerone of Britain’s greatest and most prolific painters. The Fighting Temeraire (1839), on loan from the National Gallery, will be at the centrepiece of the exhibition and is a tribute to the ship HMS Temeraire, which played a distinguished role in The Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. In addition to Turner’s works, Turner: Art, Industry & Nostalgia will also include pieces by Tacita Dean, Chris Killip, L.S. Lowry and James McNeil Whistler. laingartgallery.org.uk

WORKSHOP

Charlotte Tilbury Beginners

Masterclass

10 MAY

Fancy mastering your makeup skills? The South Causey Inn has just the treat this May. Go here for a Charlotte Tilbury Beginners Masterclass where you’ll learn how to perfect your look while tucking into a Causey Dessert Tower and a cocktail or mocktail of your choice. The experts will guide you through self-application, working on the best techniques to achieve the perfect skin base before moving on to creating a flawless finish with makeup. southcausey.co.uk

MUSIC

Paloma Faith

11 MAY

Paloma Faith is bringing her 2024 tour to Stockton Globe this May, celebrating her sixth album, The Glorification of Sadness. Bringing ‘a new era of Paloma’, there’s never been a better time to see her perform her new music live. stocktonglobe.co.uk

Joseph Mallord William Turner, 1775 – 1851. The Fighting Temeraire, 1839. Turner Bequest, 1856 © The National Gallery, London

WELLNESS

Yoga Spa Days

15 MAY & 19 JUNE

Give yourself the gift of feel good ‘me time’ this summer thanks to Swinton Estate’s Yoga Spa Days. They’re a chance to combine the benefits of Hatha yoga followed by relaxation time in the pools, saunas and steam rooms at Swinton Country Club. The 90-minute studio yoga session will help stretch, strengthen and nourish the body, before you indulge in a two-course lunch in The Terrace Restaurant and Bar, followed by two hours’ access to the spa facilities. Bliss. swintonestate.com

FOOD & DRINK

Saltburn Farmers Market

11 MAY & 8 JUNE

There’s nowhere quite like Saltburn in the summer. Sweeping beaches, a picture-perfect pier and beautiful town centre make for the perfect backdrop for exploring fantastic local goodies. Go here on 11 May and 8 June and browse beautiful stalls of food, drink and artworks. saltburnfarmersmarket.com

FOOD & DRINK

Tynemouth Food Festival

11 & 12 MAY

Tynemouth Priory & Castle plays host to Tynemouth Food Festival this May, and it’s a must for foodies and families. With some of the region’s finest street food suppliers on the schedule, including Parm-O-Rama, Fat Hippo, Di-Meo’s and Acropolis Street Food, it’s set to be one of the most delicious events in the diary. Plus, there’s plenty to keep the whole gang entertained, from cooking classes and crafts, to family yoga sessions and sports activities.

facebook.com/tynemouthfoodfestival

THEATRE

John Bishop: Back At It

12 MAY

Join comedy superstar, John Bishop, for one night only as he takes to the O2 City Hall stage this May. He’s ‘Back At It’, doing what he does best after two years away ‘TV presenting, stage acting, podcast hosting, dog walking and decorating the spare room!’. academymusicgroup.com

THEATRE

An Officer and a Gentleman

13 - 18 MAY

From 80s movie to stage sensation, don’t miss the chance to catch An Officer and a Gentleman at Newcastle’s Theatre Royal. It tells the timeless story of love, courage and redemption, and promises to make your heart soar. Featuring smash-hit songs from the likes of Madonna, Blondie, Bon Jovi and many more, the power of music will carry you through the highs and lows of Zack and Paula’s extraordinary love story. theatreroyal.co.uk

WORKSHOP

Sip & Paint with Be Artful

17 MAY

Fancy trying your hand at something new and creative? Make your way to the Lord Crewe Arms in Blanchland for a Sip & Paint evening, complete with prosecco. It’s a great opportunity to switch off, sip in style while socialising and getting your creative juices flowing at the same time. lordcrewearmsblanchland.co.uk

ARTS & CULTURE

The Late Shows

17 & 18 MAY

The award-winning, late-night culture crawl is back in town this May and lovers of culture should add this free event to their calendars. Spread across two evenings, The Late Shows brings together a number of Newcastlebased art studios, performance venues, galleries, museums and historical buildings, all of which showcase something truly unique and inspiring. thelateshows.org.uk

THEATRE

The Importance of Being… Earnest?

17 - 19 MAY

Straight from Edinburgh Fringe Festival, The Importance of Being… Earnest? arrives at Darlington Hippodrome this May and it’s a must for lovers of comedy and theatre. When a traditional production of Oscar Wilde’s classic play gets underway, everything seems to be going perfectly to plan… until the lead actors fails to arrive on cue. Filled with wicked wit and hilarious and unpredictable twists, you’ll be in stitches from start to finish. darlingtonhippodrome.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK

Sabrina Ghayour 10th Anniversary of Persiana Supper Club

23 MAY

Join Saturday Kitchen, Sunday Brunch, and Steph’s Packed Lunch chef favourite, Sabrina Ghayour, for a special Persian and Middle Eastern-inspired supper club at Castle Howard. The dinner will include delicious recipes taken from her cookbook, Persiana, as it celebrates its 10th anniversary. castlehoward.co.uk

Image credit: Charlotte Graham

Welcome to the world of exquisite lighting at Seymour’s Home

Visit our showroom or shop online where you can explore the stunning new range from our premium partner, Tom Dixon. Elevate your living space with these elegant designs from their latest collection.

Luxe reads

There’s an art to choosing the perfect beach read for your summer holiday. We’re here to do the hard work for you…

People We Meet on Vacation

By Emily Henry

Alex and Poppy have nothing in common, but since their car share home from college many years ago, they’ve somehow stayed friends. Poppy lives in New York City, Alex lives in their small hometown. Their lives are very different, but every summer, for a decade, they’ve got together for a vacation. Two years ago on their final trip together, something happened and they haven’t spoken since. When they get together for one more vacation together, will they be able to lay everything on the table and make it right?

Love & Gelato

By Jenna Evans Welch

It was Lina’s mother’s dying wish that she get to know her father, so she finds herself spending summer in Tuscany. When she is given a journal that her mother kept many years ago, she uncovers a secret world of romances, art and hidden bakeries. Following her mother’s footsteps, she discovers way more than Italy’s famous gelato!

Meet Me at the Lake

By Carley Fortune

Ten years ago, Will rescued Fern and they went on a daylong adventure with lifelong effects. Fern is running her mother’s lakeside resort when Will arrives offering to help, but can she trust a suit-wearing man who seems nothing like the young man she met all those years ago? Will is hiding something and Fern’s not sure she wants to know what it is.

Bad Summer People

By Emma Rosenblum

A whip-smart debut novel about backstabbing, infidelity and murderous intrigue. This stylish, subversive and darkly comedic novel is all about revealing what is lurking beneath the surface of the picture-perfect lives of two couples and their single friend in the beach town of Salcombe. None of them would claim to be a particularly good person - but who amongst them is actually capable of murder?

The Concierge

By Abby Corson

The peaceful setting of Cavengreen Hotel has been shattered by a shocking murder. The hotel’s concierge has been accused and he is determined to clear his name, with the help of retired publisher, Helen. As suspicions fall on a number of guests, and one making a shocking confession, the duo must navigate a web of secrets to uncover the truth.

Children’s Face Painting at The Gardens

25 & 26 MAY

Let little ones explore the beauty of Wynyard Hall’s Gardens this May half term. On Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 May, there will be a face painting station set up, where children can let their imaginations run wild as they choose from an array of exciting designs - from fluttering butterflies and roaring lions, to superheroes and fairies. A fantastic opportunity to enjoy Wynyard Hall’s stunning gardens with the whole family. wynyardhall.co.uk

An Evening with Alfie Boe

5 JUNE

Alfie Boe is bringing an evening of musical storytelling to The Glasshouse this June. Fresh off the release of his top 10 charting album, Open Arms - The Symphonic Songbook, he transforms rock anthems from Bon Jovi to Metallica into sweeping symphonic masterpieces. From the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee to the Les Miserables stage, he sure knows how to capture an audience, and he’ll be doing just that in the North East.

theglasshouseicm.org

MUSIC

James

5 JUNE

FOOD & DRINK

Malton Food Lovers Festival

25, 26 & 27 MAY

Add Malton Food Lovers Festival to your foodie diaries this May. Set across the streets of Yorkshire’s ‘Food Capital’, it’s the perfect opportunity to celebrate some of the region’s finest produce and cooking. Expect artisan stalls, delicious street food, talks, tasting, celebrity chefs, demos, live music and more. Think of it as a huge gourmet street party spread over the bank holiday weekend! visitmalton.com

Pretty Woman The Musical

28 MAY - 8 JUNE

Pretty Woman The Musical is coming to the Sunderland Empire and it’s a must for theatre-lovers. Starring Amber Davies, Ore Oduba, Oliver Savile and Natalie Paris, this dazzling theatrical take on the love story we all know and love, is sure to sweep you off your feet. Featuring a rock score from Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance, this musical will wow from start to finish. atgtickets.com

WORKSHOPS

Landscape

Painting Workshop

1 JUNE

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Raby Castle’s landscape with this inspiring painting workshop with artist and tutor, Jo Pickering. A unique opportunity to work on your artistic skills while capturing the enchanting vistas that unfold in front of you. Explore the art of choosing good composition, perspective and materials, all while taking in the majestic Raby Castle and its sprawling grounds. Artists of all abilities are welcome. raby.co.uk

James is taking to the Utilita Arena stage this June, with special guests Razorlight adding to a wonderful evening of live music in Newcastle. Following on from a successful 40th anniversary year, the band are celebrating the release of their brand new album. With 16 studio albums in their bag, it’s safe to say that James are legends in English rock music. Don’t miss the chance to see them live in the North East this summer.

utilitaarena.co.uk

FOOD & DRINK

FOOD & DRINK

Bao & Beer

6 JUNE

Master the art of the Chinese bao making this June at Blackfriars Cookery School. Spend a summer’s evening learning how to create homemade soft pillows of steamed buns with succulent sweet and savoury fillings. Wash it down with Asian beers. We’ll say cheers to that! blackfriarsrestaurant.co.uk

Underdog: The Other Other Brontë

7 - 22 JUNE

Northern Stage’s Artistic Director, Natalie Ibu brings Sarah Gordon’s new play, Underdog: The Other Other Brontë to life on stage this June, retelling the life and legend of the Brontë sisters. It tells the story of the sibling power dynamics that shaped their uneven rise to fame. A tale about the power of words, about sisters and sisterhood, love, jealousy, support and competition.

northernstage.co.uk

Open air gigs >>

Bruce Springsteen 2024 World Tour 22 MAY

Take That At The Riverside 24 MAY

Steff Todd: Guestlist

13 JUNE

Creator of online smash-hit ‘Yorkshire Kardashians’, Steff Todd, is heading to The Stand Comedy Club in Newcastle this June and we can’t think of a better way to get your fix of pure escapism. She has a fresh and witty take on the world of pop culture, and you’re guaranteed to laugh from start to finish. Don’t miss it! thestand.co.uk

MUSIC

Martin Kemp: The Ultimate Back To The 80s DJ Set

14 JUNE

The nation’s favourite 80s-themed night is back in Newcastle this June, and with Martin Kemp at the helm, it’s a must! Round up the gang, head to Boiler Shop and prepare for an evening of uplifting 80s hits. There’s no better way to kick off the summer season.

boilershop.net

ARTS & CULTURE

Hannah Perry

FROM 22 JUNE

MUSIC

Voices of Virtue Gospel Choir presents: The Big Show

22 JUNE

Music-lovers should make their way to The Fire Station in Sunderland this June for an uplifting evening in the hands of the Voices of Virtue Gospel Choir. The Big Show features some of the North East’s best singers and musicians, and guarantees good times with a mix of gospel, soul and reggae. Don’t forget your dancing shoes! thefirestation.org.uk

FOOD & DRINK

The Gin To My Tonic: Gin, Rum & Vodka Festival

22 JUNE

It’s time to take a ‘spirited’ adventure this summer as Boiler Shop plays host to the Gin, Rum and Vodka Festival. Here you’ll get the chance to explore some of the finest craft spirits and distillers, with an opportunity to get involved in tastings while enjoying live music and entertainment.

thegintomytonic.com

Hannah Perry, an artist working across sculpture, film, installation and printmaking, is bringing a new body of work to BALTIC considering labour, motherhood and class. Her creations explore mental and emotional health in today’s society by generating and manipulating materials. Drawing on her personal life growing up in a working-class family in the north of England, she explores a shift in cultural and social values and their effects on our health. An inspiring exhibition that will really get you thinking. baltic.art

THEATRE THEATRE

Thank You For The Music

28 JUNE

Calling all Dancing Queens! Make your way to the Tyne Theatre & Opera House this June for a smash-hit tribute show bringing ABBA’s number one hits to the stage in a sparkling musical production. Expect glorious harmonies, colourful costumes and dazzling performances as a spectacular cast performs favourites such as Super Trouper, Mamma Mia, Gimme Gimme Gimme, The Winner Takes It All, Waterloo and many more. tynetheatreandoperahouse.uk

Springstein and The E Street Band are on the road this summer, taking to the stage at Sunderland’s Stadium of Light this May. This is the first North East date since 2012 when the Wrecking Ball Tour came to Wearside. An absolute must for lovers of Springstein! safc.com/concerts

Jess Glynne

15 JUNE

Take That are bringing the ‘Greatest Day’ of music to Middlesbrough’s Riverside Stadium this May, joined by special guest Olly Murs. Don’t miss out on the chance to enjoy a spectacular afternoon of live music, complete with pre-concert fan village. mfc.co.uk/riverside-events

Jess Glynne makes a long-awaited return to the Yorkshire coast this June as she headlines a one-night-only show at Scarborough Open Air Theatre. Following the release of her latest singles, Friend of Mine and What Do You Do?, there’s never been a better time to see the GRAMMY-winning singer-songwriter perform live on stage. scarboroughopenairtheatre.com

Mouth of the Tyne Festival

11 - 14 JULY

Tynemouth Priory and Castle once again plays host to Mouth of the Tyne Festival this July, bringing four days of fantastic live music to the seaside town. Expect sun, sea and sensational vocals as artists including Ocean Colour Scene, Rick Astley, Andrew Cushion and Heather Small take to the stage. An absolute must for music-lovers this summer! mouthofthetynefestival.com

Race days: fashion & fixtures

Race days are not only an important part of the sporting calendar, they are also a real highlight for social and fashion scenes. We’ve picked out some of the upcoming summer fixtures in various locations across the region…

Race day wardrobe>>

For her>>

May Spring Meeting

The May Spring Meeting is lined up for Saturday 25 May, and it’s your first chance to make York Racecourse part of your summer socials. The first Saturday of the season offers up the chance to enjoy some fresh air, racing fixtures, good food, drink and company. What’s more? Mania - The Abba Tribute, straight from London’s West End, will be gracing the stage for some sensational after-racing entertainment. Gladrags at the ready for a magnificent music-fuelled day out at the races. yorkracecourse.co.uk

Northumberland Plate Day

It’s the most famous race day in Newcastle and a must on the summer social and sporting calendars. Saturday 29 June is Northumberland Plate Day, with many hospitality packages available for a day of fashion and fixtures. Hacienda Classical, the widely acclaimed live orchestral clubbing series, will be taking to the course for ‘Live After Racing’ - a fantastic opportunity to dance the night away following a day of racing thrills. newcastle-racecourse.co.uk

Ladies Day at Ripon Races

Ladies Day comes to Ripon on 20 June for a day of racing and some fabulous prizes for the best dressed. The Yorkshire course offers a great day out for all the family, with plenty of food and drink options available to kickstart the celebrations. Gates open from 11.30am, first race 1.45pm. ripon-races.co.uk

Ladies Evening ft Abba Arrival

Sedgefield Racecourse has girls night sorted this May, with a special Ladies Evening featuring Abba-Arrival and the Abba ‘Greatest Hits Show’. Expect an evening of high glamour and horse racing as horses thunder down the home straight, the Pimms is flowing and live music sets the scene. Don’t forget to don your best outfit and sign up for The Style Awards. The date for your diary is Friday 10 May. sedgefield-racecourse.co.uk

Afternoon Racing ft Royal Ascot

Zimmermann

Natura Floral-print Organza Midi Dress £1,650, harveynichols.com

Kurt Geiger London

For him>>

Belgravia Sling Back £169, fenwick.co.uk

Bottega Veneta Clutch in Pink £1,178, handbagclinic.co.uk

Get Ahead Hats

A stunning design available from Get Ahead Hats, Yarm Hire prices start from: £55, getaheadhats.co.uk

Our Legacy

Hugo

£695,

If you’re not going to make it to Royal Ascot this year, Catterick Racecourse has got you covered with a special afternoon of racing featuring live action from Royal Ascot. Head to Catterick on Tuesday 18 June for a day of race-day fun, with gates opening at 12pm and the first race getting underway at 2.10pm. catterickbridge.co.uk

Reiss

reiss.com

Boss Slim-fit Suit in a MXelange Wool Blend

hugoboss.com

Uniform Parade Derby Shoe £389, endclothing.com

Kiana Slim-fit Cotton Blend Shirt £88,

Jules B Silk Tie £75, julesb.co.uk

Sweet charity

Doing good things in the North East... our Great North Run charity round-up

Ready, steady, run >>

If you’ve missed this year’s ballot for the Great North Run, it’s not too late! We’ve picked out some North East charities waiting to welcome you in…

While the ballot for this year’s Great North Run has closed its doors, there are still some inspiring North East charities eagerly awaiting your participation, offering a rewarding way to channel your enthusiasm and support.

Get ready to run for a good cause that resonates with your heart, and experience the joy of giving back to the wonderful communities of our region.

Here are just some of the North East charities participating on Sunday 8 September…

Maggie’s

Maggie’s is a cancer care charity founded by Maggie Keswick Jencks. She used her own experience of having cancer to create a new type of cancer care. The first Maggie’s opened in Edinburgh in 1996 and has since grown into a network of centres across the UK and overseas. Maggie’s idea was that with the right support, ‘nobody would lose the joy of living in the fear of dying when diagnosed with cancer’. The kettle is always on at the Maggie’s centre in Newcastle’s Freeman Hospital, and they’re inviting runners to join them in supporting the charity in this year’s most iconic half marathon. With a sponsorship fee of £40 and fundraising target of £350, it’s a wonderful way to do your bit. maggies.org

Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter

Newcastle Dog & Cat Shelter has been rehoming animals in Newcastle since 1896 and we’re totally inspired by the work they do to care for lost, unwanted, neglected, abused or abandoned dogs and cats. Their work is all about loving and nurturing animals, with an end goal of reuniting them with their owners, or finding new homes for those no longer wanted. The shelter is looking for runners to join the team for this year’s Great North Run. All they ask for is a £50 registration fee and a minimum fundraising goal of £250. In return you’ll receive a fundraising pack, lots of support in the run up to the day and the day itself, and complimentary refreshments in the Charity Village once you’ve crossed the finish line. dogandcatshelter.com

Tiny Lives Trust

Tiny Lives Trust is a charity dedicated to neonatal families - providing ongoing support to premature and sick newborn babies and their loved ones. Tiny Lives was the brainchild of Dr Hans Steiner, a paediatrician who took care of babies at the neonatal unit in the Princess Mary Maternity Hospital. Dr Steiner (who is now retired) launched the appeal with a parachute jump and a team of runners took part in the Great North Run back in 1983. Today, Tiny Lives is a charity in its own right and supports over 750 babies and their families annually. With charity spaces still available for this year’s Great North Run, it’s a fantastic opportunity to support such an amazing cause, support babies and their families right here in the North East. tinylives.org.uk

St Oswald’s Hospice

St Oswald’s is a charitable hospice rooted in the North East, providing specialist care to adults and children with life-limiting conditions. Their team is looking strong for this year’s Great North Run, but they do have space for runners looking to do their bit this year - whether it’s your first time, or you’re a seasoned pro. Running 13.1 miles for St Oswald’s Hospice means patients will be able to enjoy trips to the seaside, relax with complementary therapies, and spend precious time with their families. Don’t miss out on the chance to join the 2024 team! stoswaldsuk.org

Children’s Cancer North

Children’s Cancer North is an independent charity that supports children, young people, and families affected by childhood cancer in the North East and Cumbria. Its mission is simple: to make life better for children with cancer. By running and raising money for Children’s Cancer North at this year’s Great North Run, supporters are helping to fund world-leading cancer research in Newcastle that will benefit patients here and all over the world. Fundraising also means it can help children, young people and families at every stage of their cancer journey; providing hospitalbased music therapy and animation sessions, funded family holidays, Family Support Fund payments, and much more. childrenscancernorth.org.uk

Living by…

“It was June, and the world smelled of roses. The sunshine was like powdered gold over the grassy hillside.”

Maud Hart Lovelace

Dreaming of…

Exploring Egypt

Flash Pack is all about creating boutique group adventures for solo travellers aged 30-49, and as we plan for summer 2024, we’ve been dreaming about one of their latest Egypt itineraries, exploring an ancient desert monastery, joining local food tours and sailing on the Nile. A trip to Egypt places you at one of the world’s most important and historic cultural crossroads. flashpack.com

Watching…

The Beach Boys

The Beach Boys, set to stream exclusively on Disney+ from 24 May, is a colourful celebration of the legendary band that revolutionised pop music and personified the ‘Californian dream’. The documentary traces the band from humble beginnings to worldwide stardom, featuring never-seen-before footage and interviews with Brian Wilson, Mike Love, Al Jardine, David Marks and Bruce Johnston. There’s no better way to get that summer feeling via the big screen! disneyplus.com

Reading…

Miami Beach, Horacio Silva (Assouline)

A sun-soaked coffee table masterpiece if there ever was one! This bright yellow beauty will lift up your home as well as inspire readers on the architecture and illustrious heritage of Miami Beach. With 200 beautiful and bright photographs and illustrations that will bring the ‘Magic City’ to life from the comfort of your own home. £85, selfridges.com

Kitchen inspo…

Peugeot - Paris u’Select Salt & Pepper Mill

We’re loving these manual wooden salt and pepper mills by Peugeot. The Paris model has been given a colourful makeover in a saffron yellow finish, perfect for the summer months. These mills will look perfect at the centre of your garden table as we kick off barbecue season! uk.peugeot-saveurs.com

10 things luxe loves

Get summer ready with some of the things we’re loving this season at Luxe HQ…

In our basket…

Heidi Klein - Cape Town Structured Cup Swimsuit

Get beach ready with this beautiful new style Heidi Klein swimsuit. The pastel yellow colour has sunshine days written all over it, and it makes for the perfect summer attire. Complete with scooped back, structured cup and wide straps, it is both stylish and supportive. We love it! £265, heidiklein.com

Pampering with…

Merwave - Wavy Hair Oil

Merwave is a Whitley Bay based business encouraging women to embrace their natural curls. Born by the beach, just a stone’s throw from the waves, this brand aptly ‘awakens your waves’ to create the perfect beach curls. It’s a summer essential for frizz-free, natural-looking hair that empowers. The Wavy Hair Oil is a beach bag must this summer! £15, merwave.co.uk

Perfect scent…

Jo Malone - Yuzu Zest Cologne

Let this new Jo Malone fragrance transport you to a tropical beachcitrusy notes drifting through the air as you stroll from sun-lounger to sea. An incredibly freeing fragrance with fresh scents sitting at the heart. It’s the perfect transition from spring to summer, and it’s certainly coming with us on our sunny getaways this season.

£86, jomalone.co.uk

Listening to…

The Travel Diaries with Holly Rubenstein

It’s holiday season and there’s no better place to be inspired than getting lost in this award-winning travel podcast. Journalist Holly Rubenstein knows a thing or two about the beautiful world we live in, and she invites high profile travellers in to share their experiences too. Each week she uncovers new travel secrets, childhood memories, educational trips and bucket list ticks, from famous faces we all know and love. Wanderlust guaranteed! thetraveldiariespodcast.com

Following…

@cloanrental

If you’re wanting to make a fashion statement this summer - be it for a friend’s wedding or a sunny getaway - look no further than CLOAN, a beautiful fashion rental brand available in store at Fenwick Newcastle and York. Expect a carefully curated selection of luxury fashion items cared for and ready to rent!

Newcastle High School for Girls looks to the future with the appointment of Head

Amanda Hardie was appointed as Head of Newcastle High School for Girls (NHSG) in January of this year. She is charged with leading the all-through three to 18 school’s continued development on behalf of its all-girl pupil community

We chat to Amanda about her plans, what makes Newcastle High so special and how girls and women are forging successful careers that are changing the face of society.

Three months into your new role, how are you feeling about what lies ahead for you and for NHSG?

It’s an incredibly exciting time. I have inherited a school that is already in a very strong position, with excellent A-Level results and a firm place in top school rankings. To now be able to build upon those solid foundations is an absolute honour. Newcastle High is a truly wonderful community where every girl is celebrated for who she is and empowered to be the best version of herself. As staff, what we value the most is seeing the girls grow into talented young women, from their early days with us in Nursery and Junior School – right through to waving them off as university life beckons and then hearing of their success as they become part of our active alumnae community. A huge part of my role therefore is listening to what’s important to the girls, keeping abreast of educational and technological advances that can create

increased opportunities for them, and for NHSG broadly, and continually driving innovation in all that we do.

You have most recently held the combined role of Head of Junior School and Senior School Deputy Head of Academic – as well as serving as Acting Head since September 2023. How has this experience influenced you so far in your role as Head?

Having such in-depth experience of both the Junior and Senior School environment has been invaluable as it allows me to know every girl across school as an individual and to create a more consistent pathway through education for our pupils. Planning the curriculum with this all-through educational journey in mind means that every stage builds effectively and seamlessly on the one that went before it, and pupils will be fully prepared for what comes next as they move into the year above.

Why is an all-girl education so important to NHSG?

Research shows that there are many benefits to an all-girl education, not least an improved sense of confidence that makes a

receive endorsement for, all the great work that happens on a daily basis. It was therefore a very positive experience and I was thrilled when the inspectors reported that our teachers are delivering great lessons and that our pupils are inspired to challenge themselves and aim high. It was an affirmation that we are delivering on our vision to empower girls to be the leaders, trailblazers and world shapers of the future.

How do you encourage interest in STEM subjects at NHSG?

The first factor to consider is that there is zero room for discouragement. Girls can sometimes feel like imposters in mixed environments where boys might dominate certain subjects and take up more space in the classroom. From the moment girls walk through the doors of NHSG, right from their first steps in Nursery, they are encouraged to follow their passions and learn without limits.

Alongside this we have invested heavily in our core academic offer, with the introduction of Design and Tech into the curriculum. Collaborations with Sunderland and Newcastle Universities have also opened up opportunities, as well as industry partnerships including Nissan and Sage. We still don’t see enough female representation in industry and I’m committed to ensuring that Newcastle High is at the forefront of that change in our region.

What other opportunities are available for girls at NHSG beyond STEM?

STEM is important but so are other disciplines and we will never lose sight of that. NHSG is a school where every girl is celebrated as an individual and is encouraged to follow her passion and interests. Whether a girl’s passion is for Languages, Art, Humanities, Literature –the list could go on! - our broad and exciting curriculum provides endless opportunities for girls to challenge themselves, to learn and to grow.

huge difference. The Girls’ Day School Trust, the family of schools to which Newcastle High belongs, is at the forefront of educational research on this topic, and recent figures show that GDST girls feel less negative about the future, are more comfortable taking risks, and are less likely to avoid certain subjects because of their gender when compared to girls who attend mixed schools. This is why we see so much success in traditionally male dominated subjects, particularly STEM subjects, where NHSG alumnae are forging dynamic careers. We regularly invite alumnae back to speak to our current pupils and their talks are genuinely inspirational. Hearing from impressive women who once attended the school talking about their careers and experiences highlights to our pupils what they are capable of achieving in the future.

The School has recently had an Inspection. What was the outcome?

As everyone who works in education knows, going through Inspection is a major undertaking. For NHSG, it provided an opportunity for us to demonstrate, and

Our school is alive with artists who show incredible creativity and drive, linguists who are inspired by native speakers and provided with opportunities to develop mastery of their chosen languages, actors who hone their craft with expert guidance and who produce the most phenomenal performances worthy of the West End and historians who are perceptive in their analysis of the past and who show curiosity and insight.

Whatever it is that sparks the intellectual interest and passion of each girl, there are opportunities for her to pursue this and to take her learning way beyond the norm.

Where do you see the school in five years’ time?

NHSG will be a thriving independent school, and the school of choice for girls in the region, where academic success is a given, where there is exceptional pastoral care, where girls have high aspirations and are inspired by strong female role models and know that nothing is off limits for them in terms of their future career choices.

That means that NHSG will be continually evolving, particularly in terms of our academic offer and our award-winning facilities, generating impactful external partnerships and a future-facing education for every girl.

Applications to join the school are open for September 2024 and NHSG’s next Open Week is 3rd – 7th June.

For more information please visit www.newcastlehigh.gdst.net

An artistic voyage

Luxe takes a look at some of the inspiring artists and studios taking part in North Yorkshire Open Studios - one of the biggest open studio events in the country this summer

Art takes on many forms and resonates with different people in different ways. It’s incredible that we can take one piece of art away with us - without an understanding of the meaning, the process and the person behind the work - and it can hold an important space in our homes and hearts. Simply because it creates a feeling. So the chance to explore an artist’s creative space is something really special. Cue North Yorkshire Open Studios (NYOS) - a not-for-profit community working to support hundreds of painters, sculptors, printmakers, jewellers, ceramicists, photographers and creatives who live and work in North Yorkshire.

The open studio event, now in its 17th year,

Meet the artists >>

brings together a record 170 artists opening their doors for two weekends in June: 1-2 and 8-9, from 10am to 5pm.

It’s an exciting opportunity for art-lovers to gain access to the creative spaces that play home to the work of emerging and established artists across the region. The event invites people to go on a journey of discovery; to explore and unearth the region in all its beauty, seeing it through the eyes of some really inspiring creatives. The art studio trail covers coastal spots in Scarborough, through to scenic National Parks including the North York Moors and Yorkshire Dales, and the Nidderdale National Landscape, alongside picturesque villages and vibrant market towns. Visit the NYOS website to plan an art tour. nyos.org.uk

Just some of the artists taking part in this summer’s open studios event…

Dotty Earl

Living in a small village in North Yorkshire, Dotty spent many years as an artist and animator within the computer games industry, she illustrated several books, published worldwide, and created art for clothing lines.

She now works with mixed media: watercolour with pastel and coloured pencil, with a smidge of charcoal and ink pen, to give a whimsical feel. Her work often has a somewhat nostalgic air; her piece ‘Big Night In’, appeared in Grayson’s Art Club on Channel 4.

In the summer of 2020, Dotty participated in the Portraits for NHS Heroes initiative - one of which was included in the ‘Portraits for NHS Heroes’ coffee table book published by Bloomsbury Publishing.

Dotty said: “I have always loved animation - it’s such an amazing art form - so watching the very early Disney films and Warner Bros cartoons definitely inspired me to pick up a pencil. As for my own work, I enjoy humour in art so, in turn, I would like my pictures to make someone else smile.”

North Yorkshire, she said, has featured in her art: “North Yorkshire has played a part in several pieces of my work, with backgrounds of York and Saltburn, as well as featuring rolling hills and sheep! I also have a number of new Yorkshire-based pieces lined up for the near future.”

Dotty added: “I’ve been lucky enough to work as an artist for more than 30 years now. I spent a long time working digitally, in the computer games industry, before I returned to paper, and began drawing pictures for myself - something which I didn’t think I would ever do long-term. I am so glad that I did, though: I absolutely love my job!”

Garth Bayley

Garth is project manager of NYOS but is also an accomplished artist, whose work captures movement and moments in time, or ‘the heart of moments’ – his latest series portrays dancers from the Northern Ballet. Originally a chef in South Africa, he turned to art when he relocated to the UK.

Garth said: “My work has become very much about people and movement. Capturing people in dance was the first step working from photos, then I turned to the mechanics of cyclists, and this led onto horse racing. Life drawing and people is still a major part of my practice and recently I had the opportunity to work with Northern Ballet, drawing on the side of the studios while they danced.”

Garth moved to North Yorkshire in lockdown 2020.

“This isolation gave me a love of the local landscape and it’s become a big part of my current practice. I like nothing more than to escape into the moors and find a quiet spot where you see no-one for hours. It’s a place to recharge and find harmony in my paintings.”

His studios in Stokesley look over a natural lake, teeming with birdlife.

Martin Lever

Martin’s studio is in Swaledale, but his art is inspired by his previous home –Hong Kong.

The multi award-winning artist is raising funds for an international human rights’ charity, with his exhibition, Silent Protest. After launching in London, the exhibition is in Manchester from April, then Yorkshire in the summer.

Another focus is his latest collection, a

series of abstract groundscapes, ‘What the Angels See’ inspired by his late mother, and her love of North Yorkshire. It captures the county’s ever-changing light and landscapes from an imagined celestial point of view.

Martin said: “My wife bought me an easel around the same time my mother passed away in the late 90s, and my initial works were the purest form of art therapy as I explored a variety of self-taught styles and subjects. Before becoming a full-time artist, I worked in advertising. Painting became a release from the day job at the time –somewhere I could escape from this high-stress industry, and where there were no limits on my creative vision. I lived in Hong Kong for over 40 years (before returning to the UK in 2022) – and the

majority of my artworks were Asian-inspired. I am now creating a whole new body of work inspired by my new home in the Dales!”

Martin had his first solo show in Hong Kong in 2002, and has since exhibited at numerous art fairs in Asia, the Middle East, London, and the north.

Martin said: “One of the reasons for relocating from Hong Kong to North Yorkshire in 2022 was the breathtaking drama of the natural environment and how this could inspire a whole new body of artwork.”

Martin is donating 10% of the online sales of his limited edition prints this spring to the Swaledale Mountain Rescue Team. He lives in a hamlet in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, called Marrick, with a studio

Garth bayley

Dotty Earl

in the ruins of an old 18th century mining cottage in his back garden, with views over Swaledale.

Sandra Storey

Always interested in traces of the past found in objects and landscape, Sandra has focused on the idea of pilgrimage for the last year or two.

Sandra said: “My perspective is nonreligious, though the connection between earth and spirit is unavoidable when walking these paths. My walks were St Hilda’s Pilgrimage (Hinderwell to Whitby, North Yorkshire) and remembered walks from childhood, sometimes a crossover of the two. Shrines, talismans, and revered objects have also been central with a secular focus based in the natural world.”

The work culminated in an exhibition ‘Pilgrimage: making tracks, leaving traces’ at Zillah Bell Gallery, Thirsk, alongside fellow printmaker Alison Britton (February 2024). Her inspiration is very much the landscape of Yorkshire. Sandra grew up in a village just outside Whitby: “I was used to the closeness of the moors and sea. As an adult, living away from that place, it took on almost mythical proportions in my imagination. The North York Moors, and especially the road from Pickering to Whitby, give me a strong sense of returning home, physically, and emotionally.

“Leaving the landscape of my childhood has always been a driving force behind my work.

More specifically, a sense of loss and need to immerse myself back in the landscape of the North York Moors led me to focus on places or objects that were charged with that emotional connection. Now, I live not far away from those places and am still motivated by the drama of the landscape and traces of the past that are evoked by places and objects. Printmaking as a process is also a great source of inspiration. Inking up a printmaking plate, then wiping away the ink to see what emerges, still holds the excitement of discovering archaeological treasure. It’s like finding the image that was there all along.”

Sandra gained a degree in Fine Art, then trained as an Art Psychotherapist, working in the NHS and as an independent practitioner for over thirty years.

Sandra said: “I remain fascinated with the creative process and the psychological significance of images we make. During a more recent Creative Practice M.A, I was Artist in Residence at Whitby Museum. Many ideas converged at this point, particularly the role of objects in our lives. I enjoy the parallels between objects displayed in a museum and the way we all display objects that are meaningful to us on mantlepieces, sills or shelves.”

Her studio is in central Harrogate.

Why it’s important to future proof

Olivia Potter, Solicitor within Tilly Bailey & Irvine’s Residential Conveyancing department discusses new ‘climate searches’ and explains how TBI can help you with this through your conveyancing transaction.

It will come as no surprise from more recent extreme weather events that climate change risk is recognised as one of the main global risks.

As the effects of climate change are becoming a more prevalent issue within society and the way we live our lives, it is important that clients are made aware that climate searches are now available, which a buyer may wish to obtain when purchasing a residential property to help navigate potential future challenges.

Advising a buyer of the availability of a climate search will arguably form part of a conveyancer’s legal duties going forward.

It may be the case in the not-so-distant future that lenders will require conveyancers to obtain a climate search as part of their standard search pack when lending on residential property. However, until such a time, conveyancers should inform buyers of the availability of a climate search, whereby a buyer can assess whether they require the search to be carried out. Climate change will inevitably affect all properties due to more extreme weather conditions, and a climate search may be more useful to properties which are situated in areas which are likely to experience more extreme weather events, such as properties located close to rivers or on the coast.

A climate search enables a buyer to assess the level of risk they are willing to take when purchasing a property after being warned of relevant climate risks and how this may impact the buyers intended use

of the property. It may also be useful to obtain a climate search to ascertain likely insurance costs in the future and whether the purchase is affordable to a buyer before proceeding.

Currently, there is no legislation in place with regards to climate change and purchasing properties, and the legal principle of “buyer beware” applies, meaning it is the buyer’s duty to investigate and raise enquiries of the property they are intending to buy. The Law Society has recently published guidance for its members to “consider the way that they practise in the context of climate change” and this is something that firms will now need to be mindful of when drafting their retainer to clients.

Climate searches cannot predict whether future legislation may come into force which will place new requirements on those wishing to develop their land, or buildings insurance requirements, therefore a pragmatic approach should be adopted by buyers.

It is important to note that many conveyancers will not be qualified to advise on climate change physical risks, meaning technical experts may need to be instructed to advise further on the affects of climate search results.

Law Society guidance teaches us to ‘adopt a proportionate approach to climate change’ and with the introduction of searches, this should assist in determining the impact of climate change, and the extent to which we report. As ever, the law is evolving, and we will continue to embrace changes whilst maintaining our discretion in advising.

Sandra storey

Martin lever

♥ NE

Our wonderful region through your lens. Here are some of your recent shots from days out in local beauty spots

1. Maria Davison, Crook Hall Durham, @girlabout_thenortheast

2. Rachel Riley, Cullercoats Bay, @rachel_riley_photography

3. Emma Giles, Howick Hall, @NorthumberlandAdventures

4. Colin Dorward, Seaburn, @elevatemyimages

THE CRAFTS CORNER

with Sara Davies

Entrepreneur and queen of crafts, Sara Davies, brings you a step-by-step guide to her latest craft projects...

Hi everyone, summer is so close now I can practically smell the suncream!

When the days are brighter and the evenings lighter the call of the garden is just too tempting isn’t it? Sitting out with a cheeky glass of something enjoying, those last few rays - absolute heaven.

This time of year is also when I start thinking about refreshing some of my interior decor - nothing drastic, just a little lift. And of course, I’m always looking for ways in which I can do it myself - because the decor you’ve made yourself has this fantastic personal touch that money just can’t buy.

Decoupage is a super simple and incredibly

effective craft technique. Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can decorate vases, glass jars and more - all in your own style. And, there are so many beautiful napkin designs out there to choose from, so you can even decorate partyware to match just about any theme or occasion. Now last, but absolutely not least, Father’s Day is nearly upon us so I’ve got this really cute and actually very straightforward project to make your own cards. You honestly don’t need much for this one and best of all, if the grown ups do the snipping it’s a great project to get the kids involved in. Craft something handmade to make dads, grandads and father figures feel super special!

Father’s Day Card

You will need...

Kraft card

Patterned paper or coloured card

Twine or string

Scissors

Guillotine (or you can use a ruler and scissors!)

Metallic marker

Black marker

Glue

Hole punch

To make…

Take a sheet of brown kraft card and fold it in half to create a tent fold card base.

Cut a piece of patterned paper to 4 ⅞” x 6 ⅞” and a second piece of brown kraft card measuring 4 ¾” x 6 ¾”.

Layer the pieces from largest to smallest on your card front to create a mat and

layered effect. If you have a different size of card blank - just make sure each layer is approximately ¼” smaller than the last.

Draw a triangle shape onto patterned paper and cut out - use this as a template to cut two more matching triangle shapes.

Punch holes into the two top corners of each triangle shape.

Use a metallic marker to write a letter on each triangle bunting piece to spell out DAD (or a message of your choice!)

Take your twine or string and thread through the bunting, glue each end to the card front.

Tie two small bows from twine and glue to the bunting ends to decorate. Use a black marker to write ‘Happy Father’s Day’ underneath the bunting shapes.

LED Decoupage Candle

What you’ll need…

LED candles

Mod Podge

Paintbrush

Scissors

Decorated napkins

To make… Pick up the napkin and carefully peel off the patterned napkin layer. Add a thin layer of Mod Podge to the surface

of your LED candle.

Try to keep the napkin in one piece and wrap it around the candle, pressing it into place to smooth out any creases.

Once the napkin is in place and adhered to the LED candle, brush a light layer of Mod Podge over the entire surface to seal it. Set the candle aside to dry. Next, take some scissors and cut around the top of the candle to neaten. Place on a decorative plate to finish!

Dog’s best friend

Dr Janey Lowes is a North East vet with a big heart. She made the move to Sri Lanka 10 years ago to help transform the lives of animals. Shortly after, WECare Worldwide was born and she started her one-woman-fight to help save the lives of the dogs of Sri Lanka. Elysia Fryer checks in for a virtual cuppa…

I take great pride in saying that I don’t fall short of opportunities to be inspired by people in this job. And when I am given the opportunity to uncover the stories of people who are really making a difference in this world, I am humbled to share those conversations.

The conversations that change you as a person, shift your perspective or encourage you to act on something. They are the conversations that make the world a better place. And it’s my job to share my exchanges with those people in the hope that it can have a snowball effect and we can continue to make a positive difference.

Cue Dr Janey Lowes. A North East vet with a big, big heart.

As I sit down for my post-lunch break cuppa, Janey dials in as day turns to dusk in Sri Lanka. In true British style, we kick off the conversation by sharing news of our worlds-apart weather conditions. And while

I’m craving the blazing sunshine, Janey longs for cosy evenings back home. We share stories about our lives at opposite ends of the Tees Valley - Janey growing up in Teesdale and me at the foot of the North York Moors - and she takes great comfort in the familiarity of home.

But for Janey, Sri Lanka very much feels like home now - a place where she is making a huge difference in veterinary care.

After spending time backpacking in Sri Lanka back in 2014, she couldn’t help but notice the plight of local street dogs being injured or struggling to get by.

“I didn’t go searching for it,” she admits.

“But as soon as I saw what was going on over there, I knew I had to do something. I was horrified at the numbers - there’s one street dog for every eight people here.”

At that point, returning to her job as a vet in Newcastle just wasn’t enough. She simply couldn’t turn her back on the dogs that needed her. So she packed up, left her life behind and committed to transforming the

lives of street dogs in need of high standard veterinary care. She came to my attention when I saw her smiling, looking after animals and just being her beautiful self on Ben Fogle’s Channel 5 show, New Lives in the Wild.

Janey has a warmth to her that you’d expect from someone who has so much to give. We’re on a video call, thousands of miles between us, but she still has the ability to light up the room.

“After my initial shock at the sheer number of street dogs in Sri Lanka, I came to realise that the way of living - not just for people, but for animals too - is so different to how we see it in the UK,” she starts.

“I realised that the dogs here actually did have everything they needed to survivefood, freedom, a safe place to sleep and even a community caring for them. What they didn’t have, however, was veterinary care when things got tough.”

That’s when WECare Worldwide was born, and Janey has never looked back. From a one-woman-mission to a team of up to 60, it’s a charity that is really making a difference, and it was fantastic to see the story picked up by Ben Fogle.

Since the show aired in April, Janey has been feeling the love, donations have soared and WECare’s dream of setting up a new hospital for their animals in need, is finally in sight.

“These last few weeks have been amazing,” Janey beams.

“It really restores my faith in humanity. We have felt so much love, and after a very difficult few years, battling with our hospital building - which was an old, run-down school - we are delighted to finally be in the early stages of building a new and improved hospital.”

Since she made the decision to make this life her reality, there’s no getting away from the street dog problem Sri Lanka is facing. But, being the smiley, positive person she is, she admits she is living out her dream by helping animals in need.

“The whole thing is really visual for me,” she starts.

“It’s literally on my doorstep. I open my gate and the problem is there. I go to the supermarket and the problem is there. Anywhere you go, it’s there. That’s my driver every day. We made an oath to fix any animal in need of us, so that is what we will do every day. Because I now know that this is what goes on, there’s no way I could just come home and pretend it isn’t happening. The guilt I’d feel about not being here and doing what I can to help would be so much worse than the tiredness and sadness I sometimes feel being here.”

Janey was just 26 when she made the decision to up sticks and save street dogs in Sri Lanka.

“I was really quite young, and really quite naive. I laugh now because I have six dogs, five of which I picked up in my first year here because I just wanted to give them all a home.

“This was before I really got my head around street dogs and their role in the local community. So, in the nine years since then, I’ve only got one more dog, because I realised the street isn’t the problem.

These dogs belong to a loving and nurturing community, the country just doesn’t have the facilities to provide the care these animals need when times get tough. I’ve got that awareness now.

“Thank goodness, or I’d have thousands of dogs at home!” she laughs.

In the early days, when Janey returned to

Sri Lanka after her backpacking trip, on a mission to change lives, BBC’s Inside Out North East and Cumbria picked up on what she was doing and got over 30 million views. “It went a bit mental from there,” says Janey. “So that was the point where this building became a hospital as we got a bit of funding on the back of that exposure.

“Year on year, I was saying to my boss, ‘yeah I’ll come back soon!’ But it finally became apparent that I was never coming back.

“It was a real hustle back in the day, and it was never a conscious decision that I was going to move to Sri Lanka and save dogs for the rest of my life, it was almost a bit of a gap year, that got a little bit out of hand, you could say!”

WECare started as a one woman hustle, but very quickly, people were inspired by what Janey was doing and soon the team started to grow, but not always quick enough to keep up with the demand of dogs in need. “It was just me to start with,” says Janey “Then I met a guy who was working on a building site nearby and he loved dogs, so started giving up his one day off a week to come and help me. Then we found a tuk tuk driver and it was just the three of us cruising around for ages. Then I met a local vet who I still work with to this day. It was the four of us for three or four years, now we are up to 60 staff and it has gotten big and out of control!

“None of this was planned, but it’s weird, it just feels so right. There are definitely days when it gets a bit much, but there’s never a consideration that this isn’t my path. This is where I can use my skills. If a dog is in an emergency situation at home, they’ve got a choice of 20 vets, whereas here there’s just nothing, so this is where I’m best placed to do what I love, which is helping animals that need me.”

WECare’s set-up is a stark contrast to animal care back in the UK. Not because the love and commitment isn’t there, but because the way of living is so dissimilar. So, just how do dogs end up in the care of Janey and co.?

“Back in the day we would just drive around looking for them,” she starts.

“But now, as word has gotten around, people will report to us. They’ll ring and say, ‘a dog has just been hit by a bus’, or ‘a dog has been attacked by a wild pig’. It’s such a community effort, which is amazing.

“I think there is this narrative, sometimes, that the people here don’t care about animals. It’s not the case at all. They’ve just never had anyone on hand to help them. They do care that there was a dog hit by a bus, but what are they supposed to do about it if there are no vets around to treat the dog, and they only earn £100 a month? Before we set up, there was nothing available to them, but now that there is, we are seeing this incredible response where everyone wants to help. It goes to show how kind the people here are.

“Once the dogs are with us, we treat themand that is the hardest part, honestlybecause you’re treating them, not just as their vet, but you become their owner and caregiver because you’re having to make all of these big, life decisions.

“When I’m a vet at home, I’ll give the owner multiple options and they’ll go away and have a think about it. Here, we have to call all of the shots, and because we’re in a charity setting, we’ve got to be careful how we spend - we don’t have options for referral, we don’t have an MRI. You get really emotionally attached, whether you want to or not, because you do become the decision maker, the owner and the caregiver.”

It’s not always a happy ending, Janey explains, but usually it is, and she talks me through the process of getting dogs back

out into their communities.

“People are always surprised to hear that our job is to treat dogs, nurture them, then get them back out onto the street.

“But this is why we call them street dogs and not stray dogs, because most of them do have a ‘guardian’ of sorts. It’s not someone who is going to pay their vet bills, but it is someone who is going to give them their leftover rice and curry at the end of every single day. They are committed to them in that sense.

“So when we (hopefully) discharge them, they are going back to a community that they’ve probably grown up in. They’re not stray, they were born on the street and are very much part of the community - they’ll walk the kids to the bus stop every single day. There’s all of these magical moments that make them such a huge part of people’s lives. The ecosystem works really well here, and street dogs are at the beating heart of it.

“If they don’t have a guardian or they’re a young puppy so never got the chance to establish a territory,” Janey continues.

“We do adopt them out to homes as pets.

We have adopted out about 350 dogs to the local community, and a few to England now, which has been nice.”

So what is the reason for such a huge number of street dogs in Sri Lanka?

“It’s a bit of a complex one,” Janey explains.

“Essentially, every country in the world would have had a street dog problem at some stage. At home, ours are hidden behind shiny shelters, whereas here, it’s out on the street for everyone to see. A lot of it comes down to Sri Lankan kindness. Everyone in Sri Lanka is a feeder, so it’s very rare for me to see a dog that is underweight because they are all incredibly well fed. It speaks volumes for the type of people they

for something else and thinking there’s more to life, whereas now I don’t really think like that. I feel I am where I need to be.

“The thing I love most about Sri Lanka is how diverse it is. You can be on a tropical beach, then you drive a few hours east and it’s like you’re in Africa with elephants. You drive inland and you’re in the hills like you’re back in England. Or you go north, and it’s almost like you’re in India. It’s really cool because you’ve got so many islands within one in a way.

“If I’m ever homesick, I head for the hills, where it’s a little bit cooler. I can stick a jumper and a hat on and enjoy the countryside.”

When she’s not caring for animals, chasing waves on her surfboard or heading for the hills, Janey likes to keep well connected to her life back home.

“I usually try to come home once a year,” she says.

“During Covid, it was around three or four years, and I really, really missed it. The first thing I do when I go home is go to the Metrocentre and have Wagamamasevery time!

“I really love going home to Teesdale. My brother is a gamekeeper on the Holwick Estate, where High Force is, so I love spending time up there, on the fell.

“When I get it, I spend a lot of my downtime surfing, so if I’m home and feeling brave, I’ll go and surf at Tynemouth. I’m definitely a fair weather surfer now!

“I love coming home to catch up with friends and family and just bedding in. It’s so hot in Sri Lanka all the time, that you never feel cosy, so it’s a real novelty for me to get wrapped up on the sofa.

“This is ridiculous, but just being able to walk on a footpath is a real joy when I’m home. We don’t have footpaths over here, we just walk on dirt roads, so it feels like a real luxury, just to go for a little walk along a footpath.”

are because, even through the economic crisis, something like 60% of people could only afford one meal a day, yet all of the dogs were still being fed. So, these animals are being fed, which is lovely, but it means they’re in a fit enough state to reproduce.”

Janey is incredibly humble and, even after the huge response from the Channel 5 show, was taken back by my request to feature her story in Luxe. But she is very proud to do the work she does, in the community that she does it in. Sri Lanka has very much become her adopted home.

“I feel so settled here, in every sense,” she smiles.

“When I was in the UK, I was always looking

Janey gives thanks to the northern roots (and her very understanding boss back in Newcastle!) for the journey she is currently on in Sri Lanka. She shares her dreams of growing WECare to open clinics all over the world in areas that need it most.

But for now, Sri Lanka’s street dogs need her and her next goal is to get a new hospital up and running.

If you’re as inspired by Janey’s story as we are, you can donate online. If you’re a dog owner, you can purchase WECare’s dog food online, with 100% of profits going directly to help street dogs.

wecareworldwide.org.uk

COMING HOME: A LOCAL HERO

In March, St. James’ Park was home to the world-exclusive first play of a special re-release of the iconic ‘Going Home (Local Hero)’ by Mark Knopfler and an extraordinary ensemble of global music stars. Ahead of the release, we were lucky enough to join the Dire Straits legend for an evening in conversation with Alan Shearer…

>>

Credit: Terry Blackburn

When writing our cover stories, I tend to spend some time reflecting on the story, the words, the interviewee, and try to come up with a creative headline. This time, the first thing I wrote on a blank page was ‘Local Hero’. It may seem like the obvious title, but it’s the best way to sum up iconic guitarist and singer-songwriter, Mark Knopfler OBE.

A personality we have longed to speak to here at Luxe, when we were invited to join distinguished figures of the North East for an evening in his presence at St. James’ Park, we jumped at the opportunity to hear from the star on the back of the re-release of the iconic ‘Going Home (Local Hero)’ track.

Since its announcement in February of this year, there has been much anticipation surrounding the re-release by Mark Knopfler and a sensational ensemble of legendary musicians. The purpose of the re-recording is to support and raise crucial funds for the Teenage Cancer Trust and Teen Cancer America, charities Knopfler has worked closely with for many years.

To breathe new life into this rendition, he has enlisted some of the industry’s finest, including more ‘local heroes’ in Sting and Sam Fender, as well as music legends such as Eric Clapton, Roger Daltrey, Brian May, Bruce Springsteen, Ringo Starr, Pete Townsend and Ronnie Wood - all of whom have left their unique mark on this iconic track’s new version.

Forty-one years since its original release in 1982, ‘Local Hero’, famed as the anthem of match days on Tyneside, has been reimagined by the Dire Straits legend. And who better to host a Q&A session at St. James’ Park than Newcastle United legend, Alan Shearer?

In support of Teenage Cancer Trust, we joined Alan and Mark for the Mark Knopfler Guitar Heroes Fundraiser at St. James’ Park’s Heroes Suite.

Alan kicks off the Q&A by asking Mark how it feels to be back in Newcastle.

“Oh, every time it’s the same,” he starts, with a smile.

“I make my way to the end of the [train] carriage to see the familiar sight - you know, the river and the bridges - I always do it. Chester-le-Street, I’m up… ‘excuse me, sorry, sorry, I just want to be there to see the river!”

The city plays a big part in Mark’s life and career. He was born in Glasgow, but moved to Newcastle when he was young.

“My mum was a Geordie from a Geordie family. There were a lot of connections between Geordies and Scots when I was growing up - there always has been. I actually remember visiting my nana’s house as a kid and hearing Scottish music.”

Music has been a running theme throughout his life, and

something he was drawn to as a child.

“I remember my headmaster writing a note that said: ‘this boy is destined to do whatever the hell he wants to do’or at least a headmaster’s version of that.”

And it was true. Mark is the first person to admit that he didn’t really have a plan or much of an idea of what he was doing, but he’d caught the music bug and he was off.

“Music is such a humbling thing,” he says.

“Over the years, I learned how much dedication is required to keep it all happening and to sustain a level of excellence. It’s difficult. There’s always going to be somebody better than you.

“With music, I didn’t have a clue what I was doing,” he laughs.

“I was just a northern strummer, clueless about everything. I didn’t really know what I was doing until Guy Fletcher came to my door looking for a job with a keyboard under his arm.

I realised, after we played together for a few hours, that he didn’t know what he was doing either!”

Mark’s work has, and always will, play a huge part in the workings of Newcastle United.

“I’ve been at St. James’ when the song plays, it is phenomenal,” he says.

In 1983, the release of the film ‘Local Hero’ marked Knopfler’s debut as a film composer, and it received critical acclaim, earning him a BAFTA nomination.

Since the early 1990s, ‘Local Hero’ has resonated as the anthem of the Geordies, welcoming the Newcastle United team onto the St. James’ Park pitch. If you’ve been lucky enough to soak up the matchday atmosphere at St. James’, it’s impossible not to get goosebumps as the tune echoes through the stadium, the team emerges and adrenaline builds in the run up to kick-off.

“This is a piece of music to me that represents coming home,” says Alan Shearer.

“Whenever I was driving across the Tyne Bridge, I would put it on. Then I ran out to the song for 10 years at St. James’ Park,” he adds.

“It moves you. It’s something about it that we just recognise in Newcastle.”

It has become a part of the city. Something we are incredibly proud of here in the North East. Not just in football, but also in the personal lives of those influenced by Mark’s music.

“Local Hero cuts are often used in people’s lives to celebrate or mark everything from having babies, to when people pass away,” he starts.

“It gets used in people’s lives to get them through happiness and sadness. It makes me feel wonderful when people >>

Credit: Simon Godsave

use the songs in their lives. That’s what it’s all about.

“When you’re in a band, everybody is trying to do the best thing for the song, it’s like having a child. But if you’ve written it, you’re just trying to do the best thing by sending it off to a good home - or a good school maybe.” The new recording, which primarily took place at British Grove Studios in West London, is out now and proceeds are being directed towards the Teenage Cancer Trust and Teen Cancer America. But why now? Where did the idea of a re-release come from?

“I think the Teenage Cancer record itself came from a DJ called Mike Reid, who asked Guy Fletcher what he thought about making a re-recording of the song,” Mark starts. “Mike suggested bringing a couple of guests on board, so we said ‘guests, yeah that’s

fine… we can have a couple of guests!’.

“Pete Townshend arrived immediately with a guitar in his hand. He took it into the studio and hit a chord on the Local Hero theme, and it sounded so damn good. And I thought ‘we’re away, this is going to be alright….’

“I came in the next morning and there’s Eric Clapton. So I said, ‘hello, Eric, how very nice of you to come in!’.

“Then David Gilmour was there, and Jeff Beck sent something from this place. Before we knew it, there’s this waiting list of people down the back lane. So I said to Guy, ‘how long can this thing actually get? Jokingly suggesting more verses and bridges’. ‘Yeah, we can do another verse?,’ he said. ‘What about another middle eight? And another bridge? Another bridge? Hmm it’s a concept. Yeah, we can do that.’.

“So before we knew where we were, we

Local Hero cuts are often used in people’s lives to celebrate or mark everything from having babies, to when people pass away. It gets used in people’s lives to get them through happiness and sadness. It makes me feel wonderful when people use the songs in their lives. That’s what it’s all about.

>> Far left: Dire Straits, October 1978, Musikhalle Hamburg.

Credit: Heinrich Klaffs

>> Left: Single of Dire Straits ‘Romeo and Juliet’ & ‘Solid Rock’, 1980. Produced by Jimmy Lovine and Mark Knopfler. Original sound recording made by Phonogram Ltd.

Image courtesy of Discovery Museum, Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums

were 10 minutes in… and worried. But Guy, being a brilliant editor, managed to piece it together despite various challenges. Eventually, we had two versions: one extended, and one shorter for regular listening.”

Things have somewhat come full circle for Mark Knopfler, not only in terms of writing music that hits home, but in his work with Teenage Cancer Trust.

“It’s very much a full circle moment,” he starts.

“Because Dire Straits paid for the very first Teenage Cancer Unit which was in the Middlesex Hospital Trust, then a few years later it moved to University College and it’s still there now.

“It’s gone from strength to strength largely due to the work of other people, nothing to do with me, but I managed to stay a patron. And here it is, the circle has come around. It’s just wonderful. I love those circular moments when you know the past catches up with you and just taps you on the shoulder and says, ‘here we are’ - 34 years later. It’s a wonderful thing.”

Mark is an icon in the music industry, and certainly a hero in his own right in the North East. But as we hear him chat about his life, his musical journey and his northern roots, he remains humble and honest.

When asked if he has any regrets or things he would change along the way, he answers with:

“Too many to mention!

“The trouble is, when you’re young, you go charging in,” he adds.

“I remember telling an engineer when I started the first album: ‘this might be

another album to you, but it’s not to me’. You know that kind of sounds like arrogance - and maybe it was, but I think at the same time you do need to have a bit of that about you when you’re charging for it.” His captivating career has taken him from Blyth to the BAFTAS and beyond, but he assures us he takes a little bit of Newcastle wherever he goes.

“That wouldn’t change,” he says.

“I remember singing to my mum when her memory had gone. If I sang a line of a Geordie song - just half a line - she’d pick it up and finish it. So it goes very deep.”

Hearing from Mark Knopfler was inspiring to say the least. Every word that leaves his mouth is captivating and his journey is one many of us are fascinated by here in the North East.

A local hero indeed.

Music lovers can obtain the re-released track in various formats, including physical copies such as CD and 12" vinyl with an etched B-side, as well as a deluxe CD+BluRay edition featuring sleeve notes by Paul Sexton. Digital formats, including a Dolby Atmos mix, are also available for purchase, with proceeds directed towards the Teenage Cancer Trust and Teen Cancer America.

markknopflersguitarheroes.tmstor.es

Scan the QR code to purchase ‘Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes’

AtTecazwelovetogivetheopportunityforyoutoseeandtoucha rangeofbathroomsorkitchensbeforeyoudecidetopurchase.

Ourshowroomsfeatureover200bathrooms,100showersand40 kitchendisplays,you'resuretofindwhatyouarelookingfor. Saveupto60%offRRPonsomeofthebiggestbrandsaround.

FREEcomputerplanninganddesignisavailable,forlargerprojects, weofferinstallationsupport.Weareconfidentyou'llachieveyour dreamspace.FREEgraniteorquartzworktopsareavailableon selectedkitchenranges.

RealiseyourdreamsinournewVRroomatourStocktonand NorthShieldsmegastores.ComingsoontoPennywell.

Spring fling

Hellessy’s spring/ summer 2024 campaign brings a delicate balance of femininity and edge. Think crochet, poplin, satin crepe and luxe cottons

Lysa Mini Dress in Rust Cotton Twill with Embroidered Satin Crepe Applique. £560

Carlo Off Shoulders Stripe Cotton Sweater with Poplin Shoulder Bow, £580 Alyssa Tiered Ankle Skirt in Black Satin Poplin with Shadow Blue Cotton Peekaboo, £800

Jeremie Asymmetric Shirt in Blue Poplin Dora, £560 Crochet Maxi Skirt in Vermillion Cotton, £580

Magalie Boat Neck Cardigan in Vermillion Cotton Cable Knit and Cord Tie Detail, £680

LUXE LOVES

Step in time >>

TUDOR Royal. 28mm Steel case on steel bracelet. Diamond-set white mother-of-pearl dial. £3,500. marketcrossjewellers.com

Cover image: Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Classic Duetto, £15,600 berrysjewellers.co.uk

touch Midas

Our watch expert, Josh Sims, on the significance of gold watches...

Rolex launched its King Midas model just over 60 years ago. It was a plain, refined two-hand dial set into an asymmetric, pentagonal engraved case. The watch, designed by the legendary Gerald Genta, was also gold, and in a big way: the King Midas was not only the first watch with a synthetic sapphire crystal glass, but Rolex’s most expensive watch up until that time. It was also the heaviest gold watch then commercially available.

The watch would find an unlikely fan in the macho John Wayne and was, of course, the watch worn by Bond villain Francesco Scaramanga in ‘The Man With the Golden Gun’, which marks its 50th anniversary this year. But the watch’s most apposite acolyte? The King, aka Elvis Presley, even if he would end up damaging his first of many by wearing it in the bath, such was his attachment to the watch.

Perhaps this was the tipping point, the moment when the gold moved from being a noble material for classic dress watches to making any watch it came in a totem of flashiness, at best of a kind of wearable insurance. It’s a gold Art Deco Patek Philippe, after all, that Michael Douglas - free of any other form of money - hawks for cash in ‘The Game’ (1997) in order to get back to the US from Mexico.

“A man with a watch like that doesn’t have a visa problem,” as he’s told. But images change.

“I would have felt uncomfortable wearing a gold watch before, so I’m not sure if I’ve changed or gold has,” laughs Edouard Meylan, the CEO of H. Moser and Cie, which recently launched a black-dialled Streamliner in gold.

“And there’s still the idea that if I have to flea in a hurry, I’ll take my gold watch with me.”

Perhaps, as Nicholas Bowman-Scargill, founder of Farer watches, notes, yellow gold is the perfect material for our uncertain times - pandemics, wars, cost of living crises - when we retrench in the security of tradition.

“I’m not sure that yellow gold is fashionable again so much as dependable,” he suggests. But the idea of the big gold watch as, first and foremost, a symbol of wealth and an expression of conspicuous consumption has cut deep, a trope cinema has acknowledged over and over. It was Douglas, again, who wore a gold Cartier Santos as Gordon Gekko in ‘ Wall Street’.

“You see this watch? You see this watch I’m wearing?” asks the brash salesman, played by Alec Baldwin, of his underlings in ‘Glengarry Glen Ross’ (1992).

“This watch costs more than your car”. It’s a Rolex Oyster Perpetual Day-Date, in gold of course.

The gold watch is the wrist candy of rappers and sheiks - and, indeed, the

wealth of emerging markets - ensured there was a phase when many brands were only too willing to meet the demand for big and blingy gold watches in order to help pay the company loans. Undoubtedly the gold watch became iconic, and the watch world of late has certainly been dipping its toe in golden waters again. Not just with less ostentatious red, pink and rose gold either - a trend for some time now - but with the shinier stuff too: yellow gold.

“It's very hard to explain gold’s allure other than to point out that it’s a remarkably expressive material, in its play with light, in its various shades, its weight and softness [literally and figuratively] such that I think even scratches enhance its appeal, in its connection to the Earth,” enthuses George Bamford, of Bamford Watches.

“I think rose gold has been a kind of gateway drug to getting us back into yellow gold, into making it acceptable again”.

Certainly the draw of gold has been deeply human for millennia - the Egyptians and Aztecs both delighted in the metal even though it was abundant, and actually other rarer but more useful base metals the likes of iron were more highly prized. Gold resonates from the Christian nativity story to the flakes sprinkled on otherwise pedestrian dishes and cocktails to warrant stupid prices. It’s why gold watches have traditionally been given for landmark birthdays, or on retirement - a tradition said to have been started by Pepsi Co. in the 1940sor to mark a special achievement. Einstein, for example, was given a yellow gold Longines by the Zionist Convention in Los Angeles in 1931. Becoming the US President has been marked with the precious metal since 1951, when Rolex gave Dwight Eisenhower, the then fivestar general, and soon to be President, a gold Date-Just. Gold signifies the top spot: when Florida State Senator Grant Stockdale commissioned a gold Omega Ultra Thin as a gift for John F. Kennedy - inscribed with ‘President of the United States’ - Kennedy hadn’t yet won the election.

"The symbolism of gold is strong and deeply rooted in the history of watchmaking and jewellery, and no material can replace it,” reckons Bruno Belamich, CEO of Bell & Ross, which last year made the metal work on even its most utilitarian of designs, with the BR 05 Green Gold.

"Gold is a noble material that combines several characteristics: the preciousness of its material, the light and symbolism of power through its colour, and finally, yes, gold does display a certain status.” But does that rule out yellow gold as still just being too much? Bowman-Scargill argues the cycle may now be shifting in its favour.

“There’s still a feeling of glamour, decadence and luxury in rose, red and pink golds without the [questionable] overtones of yellow gold,” he says.

“Because the 1980s were all about yellow gold [and record prices for yellow gold too], it came to represent success. But now I think yellow gold is working again as a response to the market saturation of rose golds and steel. Of course some yellow gold watches are unashamedly brash. But yellow gold doesn’t have to signal success. Worn in the right way it can signal sophistication, classicism, warmth.” Certainly the rise of interest in vintage watches has helped to drive interest in yellow gold. So have watchmakers’ growing readiness to apply various technological advances to it. Pure gold, at 24k, is iron-free and so corrosionresistant, which is why it used to be used for internal watch parts too. But it’s also a soft metal, easily machined, but prone to dents and wear. That’s why mixing gold with other metals to produce alloys was first done to add hardness - these days 18k gold, 75 percent pure, is about as premium as it gets.

But that’s not unique. In recent years, aiming to rise above ‘standard’ gold, brands have developed their own proprietary gold alloys, including Hublot, Rolex, Omega, Lange & Sohne and Chanel. Some offer functional benefits - neutralising oxidation, for

example, offering scratch-proofing or to prevent the fading that gold undergoes over time, especially after exposure to salt water - others just a distinctive shade.

Not that gold is an easy choice for any watch brand to make. Gold signifies wealth, after all, precisely because it’s expensive. Back when Pepsi Co. started making its golden gesture to its retirees, the price of gold was around US$34 an ounce. Today it hovers around (even allowing for inflation) a whopping US$1,600.

“Making a model in gold isn’t so much a technical issue so much as one of finance - you need to have the money up front, the millions you need for the funds of gold required, and that’s a barrier to entry [to making a watch in gold] for many brands,” Meylan explains - indeed, special processes are required to work with gold precisely to absolutely minimise wastage.

“You’re taking a bet not just on the success of the model you’re making in gold, but on the future value of the gold itself too”.

But, for the moment at least, it’s a matter of comparison. Fifty years ago, an 18k solid gold Rolex Submariner retailed at eight times the price of its steel equivalent; now it’s just four times. With the price premium on stainless steel models rocketing, buying one in gold starts to make much more sense.

BR 05 Chrono Grey Steel & Gold on bracelet: £12,300

WHERE TO SHOP for watches

In search of the perfect watch? Look no further than Metrocentre, a home to the luxury watch market…

Goldsmiths

Goldsmiths Metrocentre showroom boasts a mix of big-name international brands alongside high street favourites. Clients can explore the best selection of timepieces in their dedicated brand areas for TAG Heuer, Breitling, TUDOR, and Hublot. Additionally, the showroom has also recently introduced Grand Seiko, Doxa and Tissot. Furthermore, the showroom now offers luxury designer furniture to house Gucci watches and jewellery, bringing the distinctive flair of the prestigious Italian fashion house to complement the prestigious watch brands and high-end jewellery.

Green Mall, Metrocentre

Rolex Boutique

Situated next to Goldsmiths on the edge of Town Square is the new Rolex Boutique which offers a dedicated VIP

client service area. The Boutique includes a central watch service bar, allowing highly trained Rolex hosts to guide clients through the timeless and iconic Rolex style.

Green Mall, Metrocentre

Ernest Jones

Ernest Jones has grown a lot since its humble beginnings in 1949, going from a single store in London to a national chain stocking the most prestigious accessories including world-known watch brands such as Cartier, Breitling, Rado, Omega, Longines and more. Its stores have a very experienced and knowledgeable team of watchmakers who will be happy to make sure your watch is in the best shape possible.

Green Mall, Metrocentre

Fraser Hart

With a rich history in the jewellery industry, Fraser Hart is perfect for indulging in some luxury watch shopping. Greeting you with a warm and elegant atmosphere on arrival, Fraser Harts’ team of experts will make sure you are taken care of every step of the way, presenting a selection of watches from brands like Gucci, Oris, Tag Heuer, Garmin, Rado and many others.

Platinum Mall, Metrocentre

Market Cross Jewellers

Market Cross Jewellers is one of the largest independent jewellers in the North East, stocking a number of premium Watch brands including Tudor, Grand Seiko, Breitling, Tissot

OMEGA

Seamaster Diver 300m Chronometer Automatic Men’s Watch, £5,900

and others, Market Cross know a thing or two about the luxury watch market and how it continues to move with the times.

Green Mall, Metrocentre

Beaverbrooks

Established in 1919 Beaverbrooks is a family-owned business that has grown massively over the years and to this day, they’re specialists at providing accessories for those special occasions. With 69 stores nationwide and one of them at Metrocentre, Beaverbrooks has a selection of all the best luxury watch brands, from Raymond Weil to Baume et Mercier.

Red Mall, Metrocentre

OMEGA Boutique

In search of the perfect watch? Omega Boutique has the answers you’re looking for. A luxury shopping experience for those looking to invest in a trusty timepiece is guaranteed, with a visit here. You will be greeted by friendly faces at the door and guided through a bespoke, personalised experience to help you find the perfect wrist accessory.

Platinum Mall, Metrocentre

TAG Heuer

Experts in luxury chronograph watches, TAG Heuer have delivered highprecision timing innovations since 1860. Shortly after that they introduced the Mikrograph - a mechanical chronograph five times more accurate than any other - and became the first watchmaking brand to sponsor the Formula 1 World Championship. TAG Heuer are experts

HUBLOT

Big Bang Unico 42mm Men’s Watch

Green - The Watches of Switzerland Group Exclusive, £22,300

at Swiss made watches with high precision and they have a huge range of magnificent pieces to suit everyone’s needs.

Red Mall, Metrocentre

Brietling

You can’t leave Metrocentre without paying a visit to Brietling. A specialist of technical watches, Breitling has played a crucial role in the development of the wrist chronograph and is a leader in this field holding a global reputation for high-precision timepieces. Expect sturdy, reliable and high-performance instruments from this luxury watch provider.

Red Mall, Metrocentre

Your ultimate guide to buying, selling, and sourcing luxury timepieces

Are you looking to add a touch of elegance to your outfit? Or perhaps considering investing in a luxury timepiece? Look no further than Lanes & Co, your go-to destination for all things watches. With their expertise in the industry, they are here to guide you through the process of buying, selling, or sourcing your perfect timepiece.

Why choose Lanes & Co?

With the ever-evolving market of watches, it can be overwhelming to navigate through the various options available. At Lanes & Co, we stay up-to-date with the latest trends and market values to ensure that we can offer you the most comprehensive guidance. Whether you are looking for a renowned brand like Cartier or an antique piece, we have you covered.

Buying watches: what to consider?

When it comes to buying a watch, there are several factors to consider. From the brand and model to the condition and authenticity, each aspect plays a crucial role in determining the value of the timepiece. At Lanes & Co, we not only provide you with a wide selection of watches to choose from, but also offer expert advice to help you make an informed decision.

Selling watches: get the best value

If you are looking to sell your watch, Lanes & Co is the perfect place to do so. Our team of experienced professionals understands the market dynamics and can help you get the best value for your timepiece. Whether you are looking to part ways with your watch to make room for a new addition to your collection, or simply want to free up some instant cash, we are here to assist you every step of the way.

Sourcing luxury timepieces

If you are looking for a watch that is not currently in stock, do not worry. Our extensive network of collectors and suppliers allows us to help you source it. Whether you are an experienced collector or a beginner enthusiast, we have the resources and expertise to fulfil your watch-related desires.

Omega Speedmaster Chronoscope Paris 2024 omegawatches.com

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Day-date 36mm Yellow Gold rolex.com

WIN WITH LUXE

WIN: A SHAUN RANKIN OVERNIGHT GOURMET PACKAGE AT GRANTLEY HALL

We’ve teamed up with Grantley Hall to give one lucky reader and a loved one the chance to experience an indulgent Shaun Rankin Overnight Gourmet Package.

This is a fantastic opportunity to combine the luxury of a mid-week overnight stay at Grantley Hall with a unique culinary experience at the delectable Shaun Rankin restaurant.

The Gourmet Package includes an overnight stay with breakfast, coupled with an indulgent 10-course tasting menu for two in Shaun Rankin at Grantley Hall - for those who enjoy the finer things in life.

The lucky winners will also get the chance to experience Grantley Hall’s Three Graces Spa, enjoy the facilities within the ELITE Luxury Gym & Executive Wellness Centre, and lap up all the luxuries that come with a stay in a Deluxe Room.

Gourmet Package includes: 10-course tasting menu for two in Shaun Rankin at Grantley Hall Overnight bed & breakfast stay in a Deluxe Room

Access to Grantley Hall’s Three Graces Spa and ELITE Luxury Gym & Executive Wellness Centre

To win this amazing prize, all you have to do is head to luxe-magazine.co.uk/win and enter your details, or scan the QR code.

Diamonds speak louder than words

FREYA LILLIE

Sadie Dress, Coral £284.99, freya-lillie.com

GET THE LOOK

GIVENCHY

Oval-frame Sunglasses £280, harveynichols.com

MAISON FRANCIS KURKDJIAN

Grand Soir Eau de Parfum 70ml £175, fenwick.co.uk

Sunset hues

Get summer ready with golden hour garments…

PAUL SMITH

Hopsack Wool Blazer £510, julesb.co.uk

PS PAUL SMITH

Lurex Ombre Jumper £255, fenwick.co.uk

PRADA Triangle-logo Crochet Raffia Tote Bag £1,500, farfetch.com

DISCOTHEQUE

REISS Leonora Printed Plunge Neck Swimsuit £110, reiss.com

Hacienda 220g Candle £54, fenwick.co.uk

RIXO

harveynichols.com

MISSONI

Zigzag-intarsia Knitted Trousers £750, harveynichols.com

HARRIS WHARF LONDON

Double-breasted Wool Pea Coat £500, harveynichols.com

Emory Floral-print Silk Maxi Dress £525,

Liberating lingerie

Marta Bujwicka-Colman is the brains behind Aberdevine Lingerie - a luxe brand bringing a beautiful capsule underwear collection, inspired by the local landscape, to the market. Elysia Fryer follows her journey to creating ‘lingerie that liberates’

tune with making us feel our best.

sat with her sketch book in the garden and started to create.

The result? A beautifully bespoke lingerie business that works with every outfit, every mood, every day. With its core values in versatility, timelessness, excellence and thoughtfulness, we’ve never found an underwear brand we’ve been so in line with, and we love it.

Juggling life as a mum of three, with a dog and a house move, the lovely Marta finds the time to chat about all things lingerie, from her stunning home near Helmsley.

Aberdevine was created in my head after having my first baby…

I realised that the underwear I was wearing didn’t fit me properly. It was missing a couple of centimetres here and there, and it was mainly because I was changing size a lot throughout pregnancy and post-partum. I came to realise that all of this lovely, expensive lingerie that I had, which I really loved, just wasn’t working for me anymore.

My love of nice lingerie is something that I got from my grandmother… She taught me that quality underwear is something that will make you feel and look good, but more importantly, it is key for your wellbeing and how it makes you feel from the inside.

So I started working on designs in my garden...

My idea was to come up with a bra that would change with me. I created this bralette that was very supportive and adjustable for all sizes. Then I started looking for people that could make it and see if the idea could be brought to life. It was a very long journey because I wanted to make sure that all of the components worked well together. It was extremely complex, which I didn’t realise from the outset.

I wanted the brand to be as sustainable as possible from the outset…

And it had to be very high-end, in order to make sure that the products would stand the test of time. I managed to pin down all of the components and the lace, all sourced from within Europe. The lace comes from a very famous manufacturer in Italy. Their off-cuts are now being re-spun and regenerated for my lace.

I also wanted to make sure we could use natural dyes. The main thing was that everything had to be extremely high-end to ensure the pieces last for years. Eventually, after much research, I found a lady who could help me create the bralette. She’s called a ‘constructor’. She said it was probably the most comfortable bra she had ever made.

I had never worked in fashion before, but I have always been creative and made things…

When I was younger, I would make dresses for my little sister for her dolls. My grandmother was an artist and a maker, so I was always around her when she was creating garments. I always had this need to make things and create.

I used to do Latin American dancing, so I would always make my dresses for that, too.

Fast forward a few years, I ended up studying economics…

Which I loved, but there was no real passion there. I went on to have my own company in wellness, and that’s when the environment and ‘feeling good’ became

Lingerie is very personal and unique to the individual. It is often one of the only things we keep to ourselves or those closest to us. In today’s world, that in itself, is incredibly unique. It is our ‘base coat’the first and last thing we see of ourselves on a daily basis. Get that right, and you’ll feel good!

Marta is a beautiful and bright character. She can lift the room in an instant and after just five minutes with her, it makes sense how she can create a brand that is so in

As we chat, it’s clear to see how passionate she is that, as women, we should be investing in ourselves more. She is focused on the importance of us feeling good from the inside before projecting that energy into everybody else around us.

A feeling of confidence, independence and female empowerment, that naturally can be taken away from us as women when we have children. I absolutely get it. After the birth of her first son, Marta spent some time thinking about all of these things she felt so passionately about,

such a big part of my life and what I do. I’ve always been drawn to environmentallyconscious creations.

I was really missing this creative aspect of my life, so after having children, it really came to light and I was ready to make a change.

I grew up in Poland, but I always knew i wanted to study in England…

Nobody knows why, but from being around 10-years-old, I had my heart set on coming here. We had no real connections to the country, my mum studied in Hungary and my dad studied in Russia, so it was totally random, but I just knew, from a very young age, that it was something I wanted to do.

When I was 18 I came to university in London and studied modern foreign languages with education, but within the first few months I realised teaching wasn’t for me, so that’s when I went on to study economics. I met my husband (who grew up on the North York Moors), in London and we moved to Poland for a little while, but eventually settled back here.

I visited North Yorkshire on a school trip when I was 12, and it always stayed with me, so when I met my husband in London and he was from the area, it was amazing. North Yorkshire very much feels like home now. I think it’s the people more than anything. We would never be able to do what we’re doing and raise a family in London - we are much better suited to the lifestyle up here.

It is similar to Poland in that it is very close to nature, it is beautiful and really varied in terms of the landscapes. We are so lucky to have all of those things in this region too - we’ve got the seaside, the moorland, the forests…

Aberdevine launched in summer last year… And I’m loving every minute of it. Yes, it’s a juggle, as I still have my youngest boy (of three) at home with me. He is due to start school in September. So at the moment I am quite restricted with my time, but I was just so ready to share my passion and what I’d been working on.

I am 100% shareholder in the business, so it’s all me at the moment, which is great in so many ways, but there’s obviously only so much you can do on your own.

I launched the first collection last summer, it’s five pieces: a bodysuit, underwired bra, non-underwire bralette and two pairs of knickers - high and low. They come in two colours - one is cream, which is my dream

because it is made using natural dyes, so it is dyed with plants; and I realised that everyone wants black, so we have the pieces in black too.

This summer, I will be launching a limited collection in an additional colour called honey, which is dyed using birch tree bark.

I spent a lot of time researching to make sure Aberdevine’s processes are as natural and as beautifully-made as possible…

I am very big into my research, so it has taken a long time from my initial ideas to finally get somewhere.

One of the biggest things for me was being able to love and nurture the beautiful lace we are using, so I wanted to ensure the processes in dying and creating the pieces were as natural as possible.

The way we dye things is not very natural, and it’s clear to see how rivers are changing and nature itself is suffering from the work we are doing within the industry. My grandmother was reminiscing to me about when everything used to be dyed naturally, using plants and vegetables. So I reached out to a lace manufacturer in Italy and they said that they were considering these natural methods, and later they released a new range of regenerated lace that was naturally dyed.

I found a husband and wife team, who were based close to my manufacturers in my hometown back in Poland, and they did workshops on natural dyeing, using plants and tree bark. I went to them and asked if they could try and dye my lace. They only dyed linen fabrics at this point, so it was a little out of their comfort zone, but they tried it and it worked beautifully.

Aberdevine lingerie is available to buy online…

And I am one of those small business owners that still jumps for joy every time somebody invests in my brand. We are only available online at the moment, however I do organise private fitting sessions in the area, where ladies can come and have a bra fitting and talk about their requirements. Lingerie is such a personalised thing, so I like to do everything I can to make sure it’s a personalised experience and people are getting the best out of their luxury undergarments. I recently held a fitting session at The Feversham Arms in Helmsley, which was wonderful. It’s so lovely to meet like-minded ladies who either have a shared love of lingerie, or they’re treating themselves or somebody they love.

Luxe lingerie is not just for special occasions…

Investing in gorgeous underwear should be something we can bring into our daily lives. If you haven’t ever treated yourself to something really luxurious, I urge you to try it. It really does make you feel good from the inside out.

Having said all of that, I am aware there are certain events and occasions in life where people are more inclined to treat themselves to lingerie - weddings, of course, being one of them. I went to a bridal fair and I realised that there was a huge need for supportive bodysuits to fit all shapes and sizes, so I’m currently working on push-up bras and open and closed-back bodysuits, so there are plenty of options for different occasions

and fashion statements.

My constructor has been testing our latest underwired bodysuit - wearing it for shopping, cleaning, everything - it has probably been through six different prototypes until one day she called me and said, ‘you’ve got it!’.

It’s such a good feeling when a new product comes to life.

My grandmother is, and always will be, my main source of inspiration… She has always been very creative, so I have her to thank for that part of me. She is also very beautiful, she holds herself with so much warmth and elegance, and that is exactly how I want Aberdevine ladies to feel in their lingerie.

I also get lots of ideas from the nature that surrounds us… Whether it’s the type of lace, or the type of combination - it all comes from walking and being outside. The countryside also allows me to reset, recharge and get more creative. My first designs were born with me sitting in nature, in our garden, switching off from the rush of everyday life and just being present.

Aberdevine will always have its roots here in North Yorkshire…

It is something I am very proud of and I think it makes the brand unique. It’s great to highlight and celebrate fashion businesses in the area, because there should definitely be more. You don’t have to be in London to create a fashion brand.

I hope one day I can reach out to various different retailers in the region and across the country, but I’m quite set on photoshoots and branding shoots happening here - Aberdevine will always have an element of nature in it. And we are in the perfect place for that.

aberdevine.co

Photo by Dave Lawal taken at the beautiful Ganthorpe Hall

SUNSHINE STATE OF MIND

In the picturesque landscapes of Northumberland, resides Luxe life coach Teresa Peters. She offers her expertise to assist a reader grappling with the complexities of friendship.

READER QUESTION:

Dear Teresa, I’ve hit a snag with my friendships ever since I decided to quit drinking. My friends constantly tease me about not inviting me out unless I start drinking again, and they insist that I’m no longer fun.

I long to attend summer BBQs without feeling judged for choosing to stay alcohol-free. It’s making me question if my values still match theirs. What steps should I take to navigate this situation?

DEAR READER…

Congratulations on putting yourself and your health first. It sounds as if you’re standing at the crossroads of friendships, and this is common during any transition. Whether we choose to stop drinking, stop eating too much, or even to exercise at the gym more, then often our friendships are tested.

The first thing I’d ask you about each friendship is:

1. What does your heart say?

2. What does your head say?

3. What does your gut say?

I’ve also included a powerful activity below which will arm you with a simple yet profound tool to decide what to do next. It’s called Richard Erskine’s eight fundamental needs in relationships. But here’s the twist: instead of just pondering these needs, let’s dive in and assess where you stand on each one.

First, let’s talk about security. On a scale of 1 to 10, how safe and supported do you feel in your friendships?

Do you have friends who provide a solid foundation, or do you often find yourself questioning their loyalty?

Next up, acceptance. How accepted and understood do you feel by your friends? Are there those who truly embrace you for who you are - flaws and all - or do you feel the need to wear a mask around them?

Now, affirmation/validation. How valued and appreciated do you feel in your friendships? Do your friends uplift and affirm you, or do you find yourself craving validation from external sources?

Moving on to shared experiences. How connected do you feel to your friends through shared activities and memories? Are there meaningful moments that bond you together, or do you often feel like you’re on different wavelengths?

What about impact? How much of a difference do your friends make in your life, and vice versa? Do you feel like your friendships have a meaningful impact, or do they leave you feeling stagnant?

Then, there’s the freedom to be yourself. How authentic can you be around your friends? Do you feel comfortable showing your true colours, or do you often hide parts of yourself to fit in? Initiation is another key aspect.

How balanced is the effort in initiating and maintaining friendships? Do you feel like you’re always the one reaching out, or is there a mutual give-and-take?

And last but not least, love. How much love and support do you give and receive in your friendships? Do you feel cherished and cared for, or do you find yourself craving deeper connections?

So, dear reader, take a moment to reflect and assign a rating to each of these eight needs in your friendships. It’s an eye-opening exercise that can shed light on where your relationships stand and where there’s room for growth. And remember, awareness is the first step towards nurturing the kind of friendships that light up your life. I hope you find Erskine’s model and my questions useful.

Talking to a coach or someone you trust is always beneficial. Be you. Believe in yourself and stay true to your values - and pour yourself a lovely pornstar NOtini!

REFRESHING RADIANCE

ESPA Optimal Pro-Moisturiser SPF 30, 55ml

This glow-giving moisturiser is an ESPA cult-favourite. It’s fresh, fruity and hydrating, ensuring skin is getting a burst of feel-good nutrients. The perfect way to integrate that all-important SPF protection into your skincare or makeup routine. £50, lookfantastic.com

HAIR HEROES

Philip Kingsley Holiday-proof Hair Care Travel Collection

This four-piece haircare set is the travel companion we all need this summer. A goodie bag of haircare heroes that work to protect and nourish locks exposed to chlorine, sea water and UV. The set includes a water-resistant hair mask, elasticizer, daily damage defence leave-in conditioner, and a nourishing polishing serum. Everything you need to ensure your hair sees summer out in style. £29, lookfantastic.com

Beauty: update

Buys for your beach bag…

SUMMER SCENT

Tom Ford Soleil Blanc All Over Body Spray

Everybody needs a summer-inspired body spray in their beach bag. This season, we’re loving Tom Ford’s Soleil Blanc All Over Body Spray. The solar, floral amber unapologetically exudes the pursuit of sun and luxury - a sweet scent to see you from day to night during the summer months.

£62, fenwick.co.uk

SUN SAVIOUR

SEASONAL ESSENTIAL

Bloomeffects Tulip Nectar

Skin Repair Balm

Whether you’re soothing sun-exposed skin, nourishing dry cuticles after a day at the beach, or adding a touch of moisture to your lips, this summer essential balm has you covered. Its nourishing formula deeply hydrates and soothes the skin, ensuring your skin continues to glow through the warmer months. £45, oxygenboutique.com

BYOMA Moisturising Gel Sunscreen, 50ml

This skincare/sunscreen saviour is a must for your beach bag this summer. The lightweight gel-cream offers protection from UV rays and absorbs into the skin with a glowing finish. It’s alcohol and fragrance free, vegan and cruelty free, and is dermatologist tested. A real box-ticker for the sunny months. £15, spacenk.com

SKIN BOOST

Dr. David Jack All Day Long Daily Moisturiser With SPF 40, 50ml

A day cream we all need in our beach bag this summer, featuring the very latest protective filters, including SPF50 and blue light protection. This multi-tasking moisturiser is a great tool to boost skin health and prevent signs of ageing.

£95, drdavidjack.com

Clinique Mineral Sunscreen Fluid For Face SPF 50

Clinique is always a winner when it comes to super SPF for sensitive skin. This mineral sunscreen is ultra-lightweight and comfortable, and its invisible shield technology forms a protective veil that’s virtually invisible on all skin tones. Shake well and apply to the face 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply every two hours after towel drying or swimming.

£27, fenwick.co.uk

Tangle Teezer Original Plant

Brush

- Pink

A Tangle Teezer is a handbag essential - even more so on holiday, to keep those beachy waves under control. Responsibly crafted from plants, this planet-friendly hairbrush effortlessly glides through wet and dry hair to reveal smooth and sleek-looking results with increased shine. The two-tier teeth help to loosen tangles with no pulling and tuggling. £17, lookfantastic.com

Diem Catching Dusk, 30ml

Golden hour in a bottle! This concoction of warm spices - cardamom, saffron and nutmeg - is underlined by a woody base of cedar atlas, amber and oak. This scent tells the story of a sunset - it’s lively, it’s warm and it promises that feel-good glow. £40, diemscents.com

SAFE HANDS L’Occitane Néroli & Orchidée Hand Cream

It’s always a good idea to keep a luxe hand cream in your beach bag, and we wouldn’t be without our L’Occitane favourite. It is made with 95% natural origin ingredients and enriched with shea butter with neroli and orchid notes. It’s silky smooth and totally nourishing, leaving behind a soft, feminine scent. Suitable for all skin types. £19, uk.loccitane.com

DRINK

UP LARQ Bottle Twist Top

Stay hydrated this summer with LARQ’s Twist Top Bottle, featuring double-wall vacuum insulation to keep water cold and fresh for up to 24-hours. Keep cool wherever your adventures take you. £35, livelarq.com

to say goodbye to wrinkles and sagging skin?

HiFu is the perfect solution for you. It’s non-invasive, virtually pain free, and will leave you with tighter, firmer, more youthful skin. Hifu stands for high intensity focused ultrasound and uses this energy to tighten the skin from the deepest layers, the smas layer of the skin, this is the layer of skin that a plastic surgeon would tighten in a surgical face lift. Our experienced team is here to help you achieve the results you’ve been dreaming of.

Scan the QR code to see our Luxe editor’s experience with HiFu and why she’s pleased she had the treatment

Call 0191 2325821 www.atsisters.co.uk @atsistershairandbeauty

LUSH LOCKS

SUNSET SCENT

Season in colour

Looking for the best hair colour ideas? Look no further! Refreshing your look with a new hair colour is always exciting, especially with so many cool trends around

Recently, we’ve seen high-fashion takes on low-maintenance colours like honey blonde and rich brunettes, along with the resurgence of copper and red hues. Looking to spring/summer 2024 and beyond, the trend is all about lowmaintenance, natural colours with a twist. Think subtle variations of ‘colour within the colour’ for added interest. Brunettes will embrace a multi-dimensional look, layering various shades throughout the hair for unique visual movement. The key is understated luxury, with

sophisticated colours taking centre stage. Multi-tones are in, whether it’s golden beiges or deep brunettes, incorporating high- and low-lights for a lived-in feel. The focus is on seamless blends and low-contrast roots for a more natural look. Forget about summer blondes - 2024 is all about embracing the brunette for a soft, natural vibe. Whether starting with blonde or highlighted hair, achieving this look is possible with the right toning techniques and deeper roots. What are you waiting for?

Gary and Michael x

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

‘Where the water is cold and the company warm’

Katie and Meg are the brains behind Dip Club, a cold water social club born by the sea. The North East coast and the community it brings is the driving force behind their venture. Elysia Fryer rides the wave…

Katie and Meg connected on social media, driven by a shared quest for holistic wellbeing following their busy London lifestyles and choice to lead an alcohol free lifestyle.

Dip Club is a coastal social hub launched in 2022, bringing together over 15,000 people who have embraced the cold water and its physical and mental health benefits.

Like Katie and Meg in the early days, each dipper has a unique motivation for embracing the cold water. For many, it’s a catalyst for connection, uplifting energy and nurturing within a community.

Set against the beautiful backdrop of multiple locations along the North East coastline, Dip Club is all about creating a community in a calming environment.

What can you tell us about Dip Club and how it came about?

Dip Club is a cold water social club born on the North East coast. Our mission is to bring together communities and make socialising fun - outside of drinking culture - through cold water therapy.

Meg and I connected on Instagram through our love of the alcohol-free lifestyle. We talked about trying cold water swimming and decided to hold each other accountable and do it! We went dipping in the North Sea together in 2022 and instantly fell in love with the buzz of it.

There was something so healing about the water, it was like a total reset. We started telling everyone and everybody, getting our family and friends to try it. We knew we wanted as many people as possible

to experience it. We now dip with groups as big as 300 at beaches along the North East coast. It’s like a big fun Boxing Day dip… but every Sunday!

How did you come to work together?

We share similar stories, we were both working in media in London in our twenties. We both moved back to the North East and lacked community and friendship. We met on Instagram, then became real life friends. As we got to know each other we knew we wanted to create something and work together. We wanted to give back and feel connected to the North East landscape and the amazing people in it.

What can you tell us about the holistic wellbeing benefits of sea dipping?

A huge part of dipping for us is the mental

health aspect. It’s a major mood booster and relieves stress. The difference in people’s faces when they come out of the water is amazing - the smiles say it all! There is something incredibly powerful about overcoming the challenge of getting in cold water. It makes you feel like you can take on anything and it has a ripple effect through your life. If we’re having a tough week, the cold water is like a reset.

What tends to be the motivation behind the dippers in your community? Everyone has their own reasons for dipping. In our Speedo content series we explored some dipper stories, they covered everything from overcoming grief, looking to make new friends, gaining confidence, improving mental health and overcoming addiction. These are

just a few of the reasons we’ve heard from our dippers.

What can people expect if they come along for a dip?

We meet every Sunday morning. Our socials are free to attend. We meet on the beach, run into the sea and dance to get warm on the beach. Sometimes we host fun themed dips which our community loves.

Our most popular social is a monthly Dunk N’ Doughnuts event where we pre-order doughnuts to the beach!

What’s next for Dip Club?

Our plan is to expand Dip Club to new locations around the country.

And finally, what are your three luxe things in life?

Community. A good playlist. The ability to not take life too seriously.

Photo credit: Jules Williams Photography

LUXE LOVES

A taste of luxury

Indulge each of your senses with an eight-course tasting menu at Emerald Restaurant, Matfen Hall. With an array of delicious dishes using locally-sourced ingredients, and the option to enjoy an exquisite wine flight, it is an experience not to be missed as the sun sets across the vast Northumberland parkland. matfenhall.com

HOME COMFORTS

with chef Chris Baber

From a pub quiz with Spider-Man, to a wellness weekend in Turkey, it’s a busy time for our chef columnist. Chop some strawberries, pour a glass of British sparkling wine and kick off the sunny season with Chris…

MY WORLD >>

In early May, I’ll be spending some time in Turkey for the Anda Barut Collection Wellness Weekend with Olympic Medalists and World Champions. Whether it’s seafront circuits with Colin Jackson, sea swimming with Rebecca Adlington, or running lessons with Paula Radcliffe, it’s a dream for fitness enthusiasts. There are some amazing people involved and it’s just going to be a really fun weekend of sport in the sunshine, whilst showcasing the resort’s facilities and some famous faces too. My involvement is going to be creating healthy meals and snacks using local ingredients. I’m good friends with Colin Jackson - we go back a long way. He has the track record at the athletics track in Hexham where I used to train. I’m really excited to see everyone and of course, enjoy some of the local cuisine in Turkey, because I don’t actually know a lot about it, other than the kebab shop up the road! I can’t wait to learn about what that flavour profile is. A lot of my recipe ideas come from travel, so exploring somewhere new is always great. I was recently at an event with Tom Holland (Spider-Man). He is involved in a charity called The Brothers Trust - shining a light on the smaller charities that don’t necessarily get the publicity and awareness that they need. Tom Holland hosts what he calls ‘The Posh Pub Quiz’ at Claridges. His brother Sam Holland, who is a chef, helped in the kitchen and they cooked a meal. We did a quiz, Tom hosted and I was lucky enough to be sat at the table with him. It was just really inspiring to hear from all of these charities that they support first-hand.

FOODIE HAPPENINGS >>

Back in London, I’m going to be cooking on the Gusbourne Estate. Gusbourne is a beautiful British sparkling wine - I’m getting more and more into wine and what I’m finding is, because of climate change, some areas down south like Kent and Sussex, are kind of where Champagne was fifty years ago. The quality of British sparkling wine is superb now and it’s only getting better. People who have business in Champagne are now buying land in southern England, because the future is here. Me and Elliot

ASK CHRIS >>

If you’ve got any questions you want to ask Chris, please get in touch via his Instagram page. Chris will select a question and answer it in the next column. #AskChris

Q: What country have you been most inspired by in terms of food?

A: I found Singapore fascinating because I really didn’t know much about the food before I went there. It’s a really unique blend of Indian, Malayan and Chinese. I was enjoying flavours that I’d never experienced before. So, in terms of trying something new, that was probably the place that blew my mind the most because of the way that they blend food from other cultures.

Grover, who has actually just returned from cooking at the Oscars afterparty, and I are working together on this private event. At the end of May I’ve got the Concours on Savile Row. They close the whole street to showcase classic cars. All of the tailoring shops open their doors to the public and it’s a bit of a demonstration of tailoring and cars. The event has always provided canapes, but this year Elliot Grover and I are going to be serving things like oysters, beef tartare and king prawns for example. Hopefully the sun will be shining and we’ll be serving up some delicious in-season food.

The BBC Good Food Show is back at the NEC in Birmingham in June, which is always a fantastic event. I’ll be up on stage representing HexClad, the show’s headline sponsor.

Another project I’m currently working on is with a mental health charity called Beder. They did a cookbook where they got chefs and foodie personalities to talk about mental health and what food means to them.

I’m working with Beder and HexClad on a charity dinner, which will be a great event for a wonderful cause.

INSPIRED BY THE SEASONS >>

It’s a tough one because the seasons are changing so much here in the UK. Courgette is one that I really love at this time of year, because they stick around for quite a while and there’s so much you can do with them. Cut it down the middle, season it with oil and just griddle it or barbecue it.

Everything is just starting to get green and fresh - I really love working with watercress at this time of year. It’s the season where everything starts to grow properly, so it’s a really exciting time for chefs.

Soft berries are also coming in at this time of year - so it’s a great time to get your strawberries and raspberries. We have some of the best strawberries in the world growing in England. You just can’t beat them. Eating a British strawberry, bang in season, is just world’s away from eating one in December that has been flown in from Tanzania.

TRY THIS >>

Lime & coconut dhal with pink pickled Onions (VG)

Dhal is a quick, nutritious and tasty meal for a weeknight protein boost. This base recipe is easy to customise with the toppings that you like, and you can adjust the spice level by adding additional chilli on top or a swirl of coconut milk or cream as needed. To add some extra carbs, consider serving with basmati rice, or naan.

SERVES 4 AS A SIDE, 2 AS A MAIN

Ingredients

Pickled Onions

½ red onion, halved and thinly sliced

1 tsp table salt

2 limes, juiced

Dhal

200g dried split red lentils

2 to 3 tbsp vegetable oil

1 tsp brown or yellow mustard seeds

2 tsp cumin seeds

½ tsp turmeric

6 dried curry leaves

1 small green chilli, sliced in half

2 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed with the side of your knife

2 tsp grated fresh ginger

2 tsp table salt

2 small tomatoes, roughly diced

½ large white onion, peeled and sliced into thin half moons

2 limes, zested and juiced

One 400ml can unsweetened coconut milk

400ml water, divided

2 stalks spring onion, thinly sliced

1 tsp garam masala

Coriander leaves, toasted coconut flakes or cashews, unsweetened coconut yoghurt or plain yoghurt and/or warmed naan bread, to serve

Method

Make the pickled onions: place onion in a small bowl or a kilner jar, squeeze the lime juice over the top, mix in the salt and crush the onions a little to speed up the pickling process. Set aside. Make the dahl: rinse the lentils in a sieve under plenty of cold water. Drain. Temper the mustard seeds, cumin seeds, turmeric, curry leaves and chilli in 2 tablespoons of the oil over a medium heat until they are hot and smell delicious, about 2 minutes.

Add in the garlic and ginger and fry for another 2 to 3 minutes to combine, then add in the salt, tomatoes, onion and lime zest, (reserve the juice). Cook for a few minutes over a low-medium heat. Add in the rinsed lentils, coconut milk and ¾ of the water, stirring to combine, and cook at a simmer for 15 or so minutes, or until the lentils become tender. Add a splash or two of the reserved water towards the end of the cooking time, if the dhal starts to feel too thick, we’re looking for a creamy spoonable texture here.

Stir in the spring onion, garam masala, and lime juice.

Serve in a bowl with a sprinkle of toasted nuts, a dash of coconut yoghurt and a little pile of pink pickled onions.

“HexClad makes cooking effortless and enjoyable, achieving amazing results time after time. The sheer versatility of a HexClad makes them the only pans I couldn’t live without. They are built to last with a lifetime guarantee and get better with age. They are by far the best investment you can make for your kitchen at home. There’s no other pan that will give you the same results. It’s time to get Hexy! A pan for the modern age.”

Baber

Tom Kha Hua Hin Seafood Bisque

from Mantra Thai’s tasting menu

Earlier this year, Mantra Thai launched their 'Journey to Thailand' eight-course tasting menu. Crafted by the restaurant's expert chefs, who collectively have over 30 years of experience, 'Journey to Thailand' is a celebration of traditional Thai ingredients and cooking techniques. The Tom Kha Hua Hin Seafood Bisque is inspired by the rich ingredients of the seaside city of ‘Hua-hin’ in Thailand. Their unique Seafood Tom Kha soup is the perfect blend of spiciness, tanginess, and creaminess, enriched with the smoothness of coconut milk and infused with the aromatic notes of galangal, lemongrass, and kaffir lime. This indulgent dish is served as the grand overture on the foodie journey to Thailand.

SERVES 2

Ingredients

2 oz galangal

4 Kaffir lime leaves

1 stalk lemongrass cut in half lengthwise

200ml coconut milk

1 cup shitake mushrooms sliced

10-12 diced seafood

2 tsp sugar

1 tsp salt

1-2 tsp lime juice according to taste

1 cup fresh cilantro chopped

1 cup red diced bell pepper

Method

In a large pot add coconut milk, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, and simmer for around five minutes.

Add in the shitake mushrooms and red bell peppers. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are soft. Add the seafood and continue to stir occasionally until fully cooked.

Remove from heat and carefully remove the lemongrass stalks and stir in lime juice, salt, and sugar to your taste before stirring in the cilantro.

Serve as a soup or over jasmine rice for a heartier meal option.

Raise a glass

Feeling fruity? Here are some of our favourite summer sips for garden party season…

THINK PINK

The Lakes Pink Grapefruit Gin

This zesty favourite is a must for your summer drinks cabinet. It’s smooth and balanced with notes of fresh citrus, juniper and coriander. Drawing the purest water from the Lake District National Park, this gin is gently distilled with the luxury of time and exceptional smoothness. lakesdistillery.com

*Tasting notes: This spirit was designed to need no garnish at all - let the gin do all the talking! However, if you fancy trying something different, add a sprig of rosemary and serve over ice with tonic.

HINT OF ROSE

Lanique Spirit of Rose

Made from Attar of Rose, the pure essence of rose, Lanique Spirit of Rose is a completely natural spirit with aromas of delicate rose, fresh raspberry, cherry and a hint of Turkish delight. It boasts soft hints of lime, with a heavy kick of alcohol. It makes for the perfect floral liqueur, perfect for sipping in the sunshine this summer. lanique.co.uk

*Tasting notes: Utterly delicious with champagne, or as a prime ingredient for colourful cocktails including Rose Petal Martini, Lanique and Cider Spritz, or Rose Mojito.

TROPICAL TASTE

Masons of Yorkshire, Fruits of the Tropics Gin

This Yorkshire favourite is a London dry gin but bursting with fresh tropical flavours. It’s the ideal tipple to whisk you away. Think banana, mellow citrus fruits and a fusion of vibrant mango, with hints of pineapple. Delicious! masonsofyorkshire.com

*Tasting notes: For the perfect G&T, serve with plenty of ice and premium Indian tonic. For an extra tropical finish, garnish with frozen pineapple or mango.

GET ARTY

Watermelon & Thyme Vodka

‘Connections’

If you don’t already know… get to know! Watermelon vodka is a gamechanger. A creative craft vodka from Modern Art Distillery, where sun-kissed tropical watermelon meets the woody, subtle flavours of thyme. A visual taste sensation to remember. The bottle is a collectable with art by emerging artist, Alice Bulmer. modernartdistillery.com

*Tasting notes: Drink solo over ice, or use as the base of any vodka cocktail with a frozen watermelon slice.

TEQUILA TIME

El Rayo Limited Edition Plata

The Limited Edition El Rayo x Alejandra Garcia y Gutierrez is another bottle that doubles up as a work of art - perfect for summer in the garden. The design celebrates the magic and creativity of modern Mexico. The tequila perfectly captures the vibrant flavours of Mexico’s majestic blue agave plant. Expect herbal aromas, bright citrus notes and a hint of peppery spice. elrayotequila.com

*Tasting notes: Make a tequila and tonic cocktail - one part El Rayo, two parts tonic and grapefruit garnish.

Limoncello Spritz inspired by FormaFantasma, created by Denis Broci

Limoncello Spritz is set to be this summer’s staple cocktail as searches for the recipe soar. Experts at Italian restaurant chain, San Carlo, show us how a Limoncello Spritz should be made. It’s light, bubbly and reminiscent of life on Italy’s southern coast.

Ingredients

Prosecco (60ml)

Limoncello (50ml)

Soda water (30ml)

Fresh thyme sprig

Method

Fill a wine glass with ice. Pour over the Limoncello and top up with the prosecco and soda. Stir and garnish with the thyme sprig. For extra impact, infuse your Limoncello with fresh thyme beforehand. Add mint and lemon as a garnish. Top tip: keep your bottle of Limoncello in the freezer for an extra refreshing treat.

Growing a community

Take a trip over the moors and uncover a foodie’s paradise in the quiet village of Goathland. Homestead Kitchen is a destination to savour. Elysia Fryer tucks in…

I always feel a huge sense of escapism when driving over the North York Moors. The phone signal drops, tailback traffic and rows of houses turn to steady tractor convoys, cattle grids and cottages lapped up by farmland. Daily stresses seem to slip away and life feels simple when it’s just you and nature. It is beautifully remote as you make your way towards Goathland, and it’s the perfect scene-setting exercise to prepare for a dining experience that celebrates the produce from the land you see around you.

That’s what Homestead Kitchen is all about.

And without knowing, as we take in our environment from the car as the sun sets over the rolling moorland, we are preparing for the ultimate, North York Moors focused feast.

The restaurant is a converted farmhouse in the pretty moorland village of Goathland, less than 10 miles from Whitby. Inside, it’s decorated in a way that feels homely and

inviting. Lots of wood and earthy tones make up the decor, perfectly complementing the far-reaching views of the rolling hills. The land is in darkness as we sit down for dinner, but knowing what is beyond the glass is calming and comforting in itself.

Chef Peter Neville and his wife Cecily Fearnley are at the helm. They live on-site with their young children, and it is very much part of their family life. They are the beating heart of the business, and you feel that as soon as you walk through the door. It’s like stepping into someone’s home, but then being presented with a menu unlike anything else in the area.

Their family extends to the people and places that make Homestead tick. The ever-changing menu is a celebration of the local produce that makes the area so unique. Peter and Cecily have close connections with local folk from the village and beyond, who keep them in the know with any produce they have an abundance of. It’s about collaborating, sharing ideas and championing the community. By

Peter and Cecily have close connections with local folk from the village and beyond, who keep them in the know with any produce they have an abundance of.

Credit: Ryan Hunter Media

working with the seasons and the people who grow and nurture the produce, the restaurant has become more of a passion project than a business plan. It’s about growing a community through a shared love of good food.

As we sit down to dinner and chat with Cecily, it’s inspiring to hear that the ingredients used to make up each dish all have their own story, that the team are delighted to share with diners. Whether it’s goat’s cheese from a local farm that has recently been on TV for its unique goat yoga courses, breads made with organic flour milled on the moors, fresh fish from Whitby harbour, or vegetables from their very own kitchen garden, it’s refreshing to experience a restaurant that really embodies its sense of place.

On their website, Peter and Cecily state their mission: “Over the coming years we hope to create a flourishing and vibrant space, growing our own family, growing on the land, and growing in the community.”

And that perfectly sums up what we see here at Homestead Kitchen. It’s about noticing and nurturing what defines the North York Moors - and serving that up on a plate to share with the world.

After a warm welcome from Peter, Cecily and staff, we are seated by the window and left to browse the menu. There’s nothing robotic about the service here - each person’s experience is unique and every question we have regarding the drinks and dishes sparks up a new conversation. It’s one of those places where you’ll not only leave feeling full of food inspiration, but you’ll learn something too.

Cecily listens to our preferences and recommends a white wine to kick things off. Fresh bread, made from flour milled locally,

Dining at The Glass House, Wynyard Hall

Nestled within the kitchen garden at Wynyard Hall, a short walk from the main house, dine in the relaxed atmosphere of the Victorian glass house, surrounded by botany.

Where home grown produce has been cultivated since the 1800’s, a perfect blend of history and contemporary British cooking. A place to enjoy the freshest seasonal food, harvested straight from the kitchen garden.

Available for lunch and dinner Wednesday – Saturday and Sunday lunches.

Set Menu | 2 courses £27.00 | 3 courses £32.00

For reservations and to view the menu, scan the QR code.

To start, we opt for the Rosedale goat’s cheese croquette - served with celeriac and walnuts, pear chutney and three cornered leek. The goat’s cheese has a short journey to the plate, sourced from a local farm and it's incredibly fresh and creamy.

My dinner date goes for the North Sea squid bolognaise with bottarga beach herbs. Now, this is a real talking point. Think ‘spag bol’ with squid - it sounds unusual, but boy it works.

For mains it’s the roasted veal loin for my friend - served on a truffled cauliflower puree with hispi cabbage, pearl barley and chanterelles. The knife effortlessly slides through the meat - perfectly tender and tasty.

With Whitby on the doorstep, the halibut is a no-brainer for me, served with Whitby crab

mousse, confit potato, fennel and roasted bone sauce. A lean, flavour-packed fish. Delicious.

We sweeten the deal with a chocolate and praline slice and a rhubarb and pistachio frangipane tart. Next level dessert choices. With a regularly changing menu of seasonal produce, there’s always good reason to return to Homestead Kitchen; and not only will the food and flavours blow you away, there’s something incredibly special about the hospitality here - honest, humble and it really does feel like home.

We can’t wait to bring our families back, and perhaps in the sunnier months, explore what’s on the doorstep some more. How lucky are we to have this part of the world at our fingertips?

thehomesteadgoathland.com

A homestead family: Homestead Kitchen’s menus are based on what can be sourced locally from the many amazing suppliers in Yorkshire. Here are some of the restaurant’s main suppliers…

Meat

Radford’s Butchers, Sleights

Cherry Tree Farm Smallholding, Goathland

Peter and Cecily met Andrew when they moved back into the village. His background is in IT, but he has branched out and is building his own smallholding. Under the training of a local farmer’s son, he has reared Herdwick sheep, which are then butchered at Radford’s and have been extremely popular on the menu. He also has chickens, so supplies local eggs too.

Orchard Farm, Goathland

R&J Butchers, Ripon

Fish

Hodgsons Fish, Hartlepool Freshly caught fish from local fishermen

Fruit & veg

The Organic Pantry, Tadcaster

A family run, organic farm providing amazing organic produce.

Rocket and Russett, York

Homestead Kitchen Garden

From the restaurant window you can see the garden filled with 13 raised veg beds, an edible hedgerow, greenhouse and fruit trees. Every now and then, friends, family and customers deliver spare home-grown produce they may have - plums, rhubarb, fig leaves and blackcurrant leaves, to name a few.

Cheese

Botton Dairy, Whitby

Producing amazing organic cheeses just over the moor.

Shepherd’s Purse, Thirsk

Rosedale Goat’s Cheese, Rosedale

Produced by a husband and wife team at Abbey Farm Cottages in Rosedale.

Flour

Yorkshire Organic Millers, York

Supplying organic, unbleached flour used to make the restaurant’s bread, which has an amazing depth of flavour thanks to the quality ingredient.

Drinks

Hebden Teas, York

Roost Coffee, Malton

Whitby Distillery, Whitby

Wold Top Brewery, Driffield

Yorkshire Wolds Apple Juice, Malton

Bax Botanics, Wetherby

Alcohol free herbal drinks

Crockery

Kath Cox, York

Most of Homestead’s plates and bowls are totally unique to the restaurant and made by artist Kath

It’s about noticing and nurturing what defines the North York Moors - and serving it up on a plate to share with the world.

is the perfect opener to dinner.

High flyer

Why High Force Hotel is a box-ticker when it comes to a super staycation on our doorstep…

LOOKING AHEAD?

Just a scenic 30 minute drive away from High Force Hotel and Waterfall you will find Raby Castle, one of the most impressive intact castles in England. The elegant leisure destination is soon to be complete with remodelled walled gardens, heritage buildings, stylish shopping and great food sourced from the Estate. Guess what? All High Force Guests receive complimentary tickets to this iconic location to enjoy during their stay.

EAT WELL?

We offer locally-sourced, delicious food from breakfast to indulgent evening meals in an elegant yet relaxed setting at The High Force Hotel. Our menu highlights the best of British and Upper Teesdale with international flair, focusing on quality, seasonal, and local ingredients. Wellbehaved dogs are always welcome, whether you’re staying overnight or just stopping by for a meal.

DIARY DATE?

High Force Waterfall just a short walk from the hotel has some of the darkest skies in England. The perfect location for a magical stargazing supper event. The evening begins with a delicious 3 course meal at the High Force Hotel. After that, an insightful presentation and a walk down to the

waterfall, where the beautiful scenery will be illuminated for you to take photographs with your phone. Gaze up at the stars using the astronomy binoculars provided, admire the web of constellations in the sky and develop a greater understanding of the sky at night. These one off events run from September through to March

TIME FOR TEA?

Indulge in our extra lavish afternoon teas at High Force Hotel, featuring dainty sandwiches, delectable cake, and scones with generous servings of jam and cream. Complete the experience with freshlybrewed tea and for a special celebration, add a glass of fizz to make it even more memorable.

LAY YOUR HEAD?

We are adding an extra special touch this springtime with 20% off bed and breakfast until 30th June. This is a limited-time offer that makes the country escape you’ve been longing for even sweeter. The greenery is starting to evolve, the colourful flowers appearing and sunsets are in sight, join us at High Force Hotel and Waterfall for the most perfect getaway. Bring your walking boots, feel the warmth from the open-lit fires, relax in the most scrumptious beds and explore the magnificent countryside surrounding you.

Scan the QR code and use the code SFO24 for a 20% discount. Includes complimentary exclusive access to High Force Waterfall adjacent to the hotel, complimentary tickets to Raby Castle and Deer Park, a wholesome Teesdale Breakfast and luxury Temple Spa toiletries.

@anastasia.ponomarenko.photo

UK GETAWAY: Langdale Chase

Elysia Fryer enjoys lakeside luxury at Langdale Chase, Windermere…

STAY HERE

On the water’s edge, overlooking Lake Windermere and the fells beyond, is Langdale Chase, a place where time stands still, perfectly blending luxury lakeside living with all of the comforts to make you feel right at home.

The Lake District has long been an inspiring place for authors, artists and poets, and it’s

easy to see why - especially when you get to see it in all its natural, uninterrupted beauty. Langdale Chase gives us the chance to experience first-hand what makes the Lake District the country’s largest and most spectacular National Park. Lakeside vistas envelop this Grade II Listed landmark, and it’s just as special inside. It was built as a home for Edna Howarth

back in 1891, was transformed into a hotel in the 1930s, and has since been a well-loved property on the banks of Lake Windermere. Following a recent, year-long renovation, it is firmly establishing itself as one of the finest five star lakeside retreats in the country.

You can do as much or as little as you wish with Langdale Chase as your base. There are plenty of beautiful walks at your fingertips, as well as watersports, cultural days out and more. But if you’re planning on staying put, you can hunker down inside - be it getting lost in a book in the library, watching a movie in the cellar cinema, or sipping cocktails and watching the sun set over the lake.

The hotel boasts 30 guest rooms and suites, as well as a private Boathouse - an architectural gem sitting directly above the lake with private beach access. But when you’re not living it up in your suite, there are plenty of communal spaces to relax and revel in pure lakeside luxury. From the opulent hall with roaring fireplace and intricate wooden staircase, to the stylish bar, lounge and dining room, every space is indulgent and inviting. On arrival, our bags are taken care of and we’re whisked into the hall to take it all in.

With the majestic Lake Windermere in front of us, we sink into a cosy sofa by the fire, bellini in hand. Bliss.

STYLE

An original carved wooden staircase takes centre stage in the hall. A reclaimed 1890s fireplace flickering beneath, while guests unwind and drinks are served.

This place has a style of its own. It is truly breathtaking and incredibly unique; from the intricate panelling covering the walls and the sofas and chairs built into every nook and cranny, to the original stainedglass windows and the restaurant’s striking glass frontage overlooking Lake Windermere, it certainly owns its sense of place.

It is quintessentially British with real class - traditional with a perfect touch of contemporary style.

Views of Lake Windermere don’t get much better than this - totally uninterrupted and far-reaching.

HOTEL HIGHLIGHTS

There are too many highlights to mention. This place has clearly been very well considered at every touch point. Every detail has been nailed to perfection. The staff are incredibly attentive and friendly. They’re happy to have a chat and get to know guests, but they’re also very clued up on the hotel, the local area and every single drink and dish they serve up.

The hotel's extraordinary location and stunning interiors are enough to blow us away, as is the food and friendly service, but what is really special about this place is some of the little quirks that really make it unique. Instead of knocking the building to pieces and creating a very usable, open-plan space on the ground floor, it has been very cleverly worked to incorporate lots of lovely rooms, perfectly flowing from one to the next. From the hall, you’ll find the lounge, bar and dining room - all boasting panoramic views of the lake. By the hotel’s front door, you’ll find the boot room, which also serves as an informal reception area. Above that, you’ll find the library, stocked with charming books, many of which are inspired by the people and places that have and continue to make the National Park tick. A charming addition to the hotel is the cinema room hidden in the cellar. A cosy sanctuary, perfect for rainy days, or for a bit of downtime following a big hike. The wine cellar is also worth mentioning - not only does it look incredibly striking at the restaurant’s entrance, but it’s also an invitation to join a fascinating wine journey with the in-house experts. Wine tasting experiences can be arranged by the hotel’s staff, and it’s a must if you’re a wine-lover. We are dog and child-free on this occasion, but another reason we love this place is because there’s no need to leave anybody at home - four-legged friends included. It’s a reminder that the Lake District is an adventure for all. There are a number of dog and family-friendly rooms, with beds, bowls, towels and special treats.

LAY YOUR HEAD

The Wray Castle Suite is our home for the evening - an imposing apartment-style room at the top of the main house. Views of Lake

Windermere don’t get much better than this - totally uninterrupted and far-reaching. There’s a huge lounge area with chic yet cosy furnishings, a dining table perfectly set up with views over the lake and an accent chair in the bay window - the ideal spot for getting lost in a book.

We’re greeted with a carafe of local damson gin, enjoyed as we rest our legs and watch as the lake glistens as dusk turns to dark.

A picture-perfect start to our staycation. Beautiful wooden furniture fills the space, Beatrix Potter books line the windowsill and neutral hues with hints of blue make up the decor. The interiors are reflective of the nature beyond the windows.

The bedroom is clean and contemporarycrisp white bedding, complemented by soft blue furnishings such as cushions, a headboard and chair. The bathroom is a ‘wow moment’ - covered in stunning marble tiles with a very inviting bath complete with bamboo and jasmine Bath House toiletries.

FOOD & DRINK

From our arrival bellini and our in-room damson gin, to our pre-dinner margarita and recommended wine by the glass with dinner, we’re blown away by the service when it comes to ensuring you’re sipping in style.

The hotel’s bar is a beautiful space to start the evening, with a whole host of carefullycrafted cocktails, wines, spirits and beers.

What is so amazing about this placewhether you’re drinking and dining in the bar, lounge or restaurant - there is no ‘bad’ table. Every single seated area enjoys lakeside vistas and the view just never gets old.

The sky is turning orange and there’s a glow bouncing off the glass as we’re wined, watered and seated in the dining room.

The two AA Rosette restaurant is a panoramic feast for the senses - a place to admire the beauty outside and in. And when the sun sets completely and our dishes arrive, the focus is on the food.

Following our snacks of goat’s cheese custard and vegetable dim sum with hot garlic sauce, I start with the Orkney scallop ceviche, served with fennel, apple and golden raisin. My dinner date goes for the

ox cheek with chestnut, smoked butter and dashi. The scallop is delicate and as fresh as can be, while the ox cheek is deliciously rich and tender.

It’s the Lakeland Dexter beef and the sea bass for mains. The beef is cooked to perfection and the fish is full of flavour, cooked in a curried mussel and fennel sauce.

Our dinner comes to a close with a selection of British cheeses and a glass of port. The perfect end to a perfect evening. Michael Cole is executive chef at Langdale Chase and his wonderfully distinct dishes really celebrate all that the Lake District has to offer in terms of its meat and fish offering, as well as local artisan cheeses. Michael’s menus are ever-changing, always with the seasons, but sometimes just with whatever has come off the fells or the boat. His ethos is about celebrating the best of modern British cuisine, and the restaurant does exactly that.

DO THIS

The beauty of this place is that you can fill your itinerary to the rafters, or you can simply ‘just be’ and you’ll leave feeling

equally accomplished. There’s so much beauty inside, that sitting by the fire with a cocktail and a book, is just as satisfying as getting lost in the fells beyond Lake Windermere. But whatever it is you choose to do with your time here, the friendly staff are on hand to help in any way they can.

Thrill-seekers, the world is at your fingertips. Grizedale Forest is a short drive from the hotel, where you’ll find mountain biking trails for all abilities; lake swimming is available from the hotel’s jetty; off roading Land Rover experiences are available at Graythwaite Estate, just a short distance from Langdale Chase; as are clay pigeon shooting, axe throwing, archery and water sport activities.

If you’re staying on site, speak to staff about garden tours, wine tasting, local hikes and hunkering down for a film in the cellar cinema.

Whether it’s a go-with-the-flow break, or an itinerary-packed adventure, having Langdale Chase as your base is a no brainer and we hope you love it just as much as we have. We can’t wait to return with our brood.

langdalechase.co.uk

POSH PETS

with Rupert helped by Elysia Fryer

Here comes the sun

We’re heading paw first into sunny season and our luxe pooch has never been happier about long days in the garden, tea-time walkies before dark, and filling up our doggy diaries with gorgeous getaways where nobody is left behind! In this column, Rupert has sniffed out some of his favourite staycation spots - from the Lake District and Northumberland, to the Yorkshire Coast and the Cotswolds. We hope you and your four-legged friends can be

Rupert loves

Teddy Maximus

The ‘Queen Bee’ Dusky

Pink Luxury Dog Carrier £279, teddymaximus.com

inspired on a hound holiday too. With that in mind, we’ve picked out some handy bits of kit to fill your bags for a few nights away with pup in tow. And to top it off, we’ve been chatting to the amazing Janey Lowes - a vet from the North East who has set up home in Sri Lanka ‘scooping up street dogs’. Belle is one of her own dogs out there, a gorgeous 9-year-old Sri Lankan street dog crossbreed. Enjoy the sunshine!

What to pack for glorious getaways...

Super staycations

Gorgeous getaways where you don’t have to leave anyone behind!

THE LAKE DISTRICT

Langdale Chase, Windermere

As per our review in this issue, we’re currently dreaming of another getaway at this beautiful bolthole on the water’s edge in Windermere. We visited solo on this occasion, but saw how four-legged friends are given a big warm welcome, too. There are a number of pooch-friendly bedrooms with balconies and terraces, and easy access to the gardens and lake. Your pup will be welcomed with a waggy tail letter giving you everything you need for your stay, along with a cosy bed, towel, bowls and homemade treats. langdalechase.co.uk

THE YORKSHIRE COAST

Raithwaite Sandsend

furry-friend in tow. The hotel has pet-friendly rooms that are perfectly placed for paws to explore the grounds and beaches beyond. raithwaitesandsend.co.uk

THE COTSWOLDS

The Fish Hotel

The Fish Hotel is a well-loved retreat set in a private estate in The Cotswolds, and if you’ve been eyeing up a stay here, you’ll be delighted to know that they love dogs just as much as we do. With an ethos of ‘why should humans have all the fun?’, they offer a number of dog-friendly rooms with the estate’s 500 acres at your fingertips. Complete with bed, bowls, towels and treats, you can rest in the knowledge that your furry friend is being pampered too. thefishhotel.co.uk

NORTHUMBERLAND

Crabtree & Crabtree Cottages

The lovely folk at Crabtree & Crabtree cottages have a number of dog-friendly properties ready to welcome pooches. Whether you’re sniffing out coastal cottages, or homes hidden in the hills, we can guarantee you’ll find the perfect pad for your pup-friendly getaway. Many of them enjoy large enclosed gardens, wonderful walks from the doorstep, and all the luxuries on-hand to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable stay. crabtreeandcrabtree.com

If your pooch is a beach babe, look no further than Raithwaite Sandsend, a stunning spot enjoying the best of both worlds - the very best of the coast and countryside. The hotel is a beautiful retreat, whisking you away from the worries of the everyday, and it ensures you can do exactly that with your

Mutts & Hounds

Charcoal Stripe & Leather Dog Lead

From £49.50, muttsandhounds.co.uk

Cocopup London

Teddy Drying Robe £35, cocopuplondon.com

The Foggy Dog

Peaches and Cream

Dog Collar £27, swoof.co.uk

Maxbone GO! Portable Bowl £22, swoof.co.uk

WECare Dog Food

Fish with Rice (Adult 10kg)

WECare Pet Food is lovingly baked with only the finest and freshest protein sources and wholesome grains to support pets with sensitive digestion. This is the only pet food where 100% of profits go directly to help street dogs in Sri Lanka. Every penny helps a pup in need. Buy online and do your bit for our furry friends overseas. wecareworldwide.org.uk

Luxe pet Q&A

Belle is a 9-year-old Sri Lankan street dog crossbreed. Vet and founder of WECare Worldwide, Janey Lowes, rescued Belle in 2015 after she was attacked by a wild boar and ended up with two broken legs. Janey had to amputate one limb but saved the other, meaning she is now a tripod (or tuk-tuk as they call them in Sri Lanka!).

LUXE WALKS

Belle loves to go to the beach in Talalla where she has a little run around, sniffs all the fishermen’s nets to see what was caught overnight and then gets halfway down the beach before she lies under a sunbed for a rest.

POOCH’S PERFECT DAY OUT

Belle loves to join Janey’s surf trips to the East Coast and enjoys lounging on the beach!

DOGGY DOWNTIME

With a chew, in the air conditioning, getting brushed. She loves the feeling of the brush on her skin. Cannot say the same for baths!

DOG’S BEST FRIEND

Belle loves her doggie sister Lottie. Lottie had distemper when she was a puppy and ended up with some neurological issues so the two of them together are very special - neither of

them are that comfortable on the concrete floors and so stay glued to their beds, sometimes in one together with their wobbly heads and kooky behaviour!

HOUND HABITS

She loves to bark and tell Janey when one of the other dogs is doing something naughty like jumping on the sofa!

PUPPY PAMPER

She loves a brush but is pretty loyal to her street dog roots beyond that; bit of a scruffy mare!

FONDEST DOGGY MEMORY

As sad as it was, the best memory was when Janey picked Belle up from the outhouse she was hiding in behind a rotti shop after she had been attacked by the wild boar. I think it was a huge relief and love at first sight.

PUPPY A-LISTER

Helena Bonham-Carter - very quirky!

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

Home from home

No booking, no packing, just up and go to your very own holiday home at Heathergate Boutique Holiday Park…

There comes a time in life when owning a holiday home almost feels like a necessity. We can all be guilty of falling into routine, overworking and leaving little time for ourselves. Escaping the hustle and bustle of the every day, leaving behind work commitments and forgetting about your household chores is a thought that strikes a chord with many of us in today’s hectic world. Having time that's truly yours to enjoy as you choose is just one of the many perks of owning your very own home away from home.

Located on the outskirts of Hexham, overlooking Northumberland National Park, Heathergate Boutique Holiday Park offers a slice of rural paradise for those looking to switch off, relax and unwind. Just a stone’s throw away from the North Pennines, this idyllic retreat promises breathtaking views, serene surroundings, and a peaceful environment, making it the ideal spot for those seeking respite from the bustle of daily life.

Picture this, it’s a Friday afternoon, you’ve had a stressful week and you simply need to get away and forget about your worries. There’s no need to pack, no booking required, just simply jump in the car and escape to your very own hideaway. Open the doors to your luxurious holiday home and be welcomed back to the peace and tranquillity just as you left it. A holiday home here brings the freedom of being able to whisk yourself away to a five-star lifestyle whenever you like. Regardless of the day, time or season, your home here is your own to do as you please.

A peaceful, friendly and well-kept environment is guaranteed here. This gated, pet-friendly community means your property is safe 365 days of the year and comes without the burden of maintenance as the outstanding team on-site will service, maintain and even clean your holiday home for you if desired. Life here is easy and we can see why.

As well as unwinding in your own space, the outstanding facilities on-site are yours to enjoy at your own leisure. Your exercise

needs are taken care of with a gym boasting top-of-the-range equipment, and there’s a quiet oasis made up of state-of-the-art spa facilities, including a stylish swimming pool, steam room, and sauna - all of which enhance the relaxation element of the whole experience.

But the attraction of Heathergate extends beyond its luxurious amenities. Surrounding the park is a wealth of activities and attractions to explore. Within just a short distance lies the charming town of Hexham,

renowned as one of Britain’s favourite market towns. Hexham’s vibrant streets, historic landmarks, and bustling shops provide the perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls and cultural excursions. History enthusiasts will delight in the proximity to Hadrian’s Wall, an UNESCO World Heritage Site just five miles away. This ancient site offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure amidst breathtaking landscapes steeped in centuries of history.

Whether seeking relaxation or adventure, Heathergate Boutique Holiday Park offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and natural beauty, ensuring every visit is a memorable retreat from the stresses of daily life.

Allow your dream to become a reality and scan the QR code to browse the range of holiday homes available to purchase.

Your next staycation awaits…

As well as creating a sanctuary for those looking to own their very own holiday home, Heathergate Boutique Holiday Park also offers the opportunity for those looking to escape for the weekend. If the idea of overlooking the rolling countryside, sipping on a glass of Champagne in the hot tub, and indulging in five-star facilities sounds like something you’re on the lookout for, then a blissful break at Heathergate might just be what you need. Visit their website to explore the range of lodges available for your next staycation.

HIP HOTELS

with Debrah Dhugga

The Reserve is a hotel within a hotel, with luxury at its heart - and it has just landed on the Portuguese island of Madeira

The Savoy Palace Hotel opened in 2019, rising high above the seafront in Funchal. January 2024 brought us The Reserve - a boutique hotel within a hotel, with service that whisks you straight from the plane to the lobby. It’s an amazing experience in many ways. The Reserve’s bedrooms are on skyline floors and have access to an exclusive rooftop pool with gull’s-eye views over the seafront. An elegant building overflowing with hanging-garden foliage, reflected in the lake-size pool at its feet, the Savoy Palace is so big it almost has its own microclimate. But, The Reserve feels so cosy, exclusive and intimate - almost like a hideaway. You can tiptoe around in your white slippers as the sea breeze ruffles around you. It’s the little touches that make this hotel very special. The impossible is made possible from the moment you land on the island with the hotel’s dedicated greeting service at Madeira International Airport. This beautiful boutique haven has to be

kept as one of Portugal’s best kept secrets. You will enter a world of undivided and complete attention to every detail at The Reserve. It’s clear to see why it is nominated for Conde Nast ‘Newcomer of the Year’. The new concept of luxurious hospitality in Madeira serves the absolute best that this genuine island can offer, and the highly personalised service brings you all the requests you can dream of and desire, from the very special to the most extravagant request.

BEDROOMS

With only 40 bedrooms, this boutique hotel has various rooms, from standard to pool suites. All rooms provide a comfortable haven for those seeking a hotel with a small retreat feel. Each room boasts a serene sea view, meaning you can wake up to the picturesque sight of the ocean. The rooms are beautifully furnished with plush bedding - I love nice bedding when staying in a hotel, it should always feel better than what you have at home. For those wanting a little extra, the pool

The Reserve feels so cosy, exclusive and intimate - almost like a hideaway. You can tiptoe around in your white slippers as the sea breeze ruffles around you.

suites feature a private terrace with its own plunge pool overlooking the magnificent sea or the spectacular Funchal Bay. Bask in the sun on your terrace, your very own exclusive hideaway space. Regardless of the room type you choose, this boutique haven guarantees impeccable service and attention to detail. In your bedroom your blackout blinds rise up at the touch of a button for an amazing morning view. All rooms offer complimentary bottles of Madeira and wines with regular top-ups of fresh fruit and Madeiran sugar-cane honey cake. I could go on but I don’t want to spoil all the surprises.

FOOD & DRINK

Breakfast is served in a stunning location overlooking the ocean and Funchal’s mountains. A magical way to start the day. Throughout the day, you can indulge in a

wide variety of snacks and drinks. In the evening, you have to visit Nikkei on the 16th floor. The sushi menu is outstanding. Chef Miguel Bértolo, a gastronomic consultant recognised for his sushi mastery, has created a fusion of Japanese ingredients and techniques with influences from world cuisines. It’s not to be missed.

LOCATION

The Reserve is just a 20-minute drive from Madeira Cristiano Ronaldo Airport. Direct flights are available to Maderia from Newcastle International Airport.

Madeira is recognised as Portugal’s hidden gem, known for its lush landscape and tropical climate all year round. Its centre, Funchal, has lots to offer, with markets, boutique shopping and a vibrant dining and nightlife scene. Madeira is also a well-loved golf destination.

Other popular activities in Madeira include: Levada Walks, Monte Palace Tropical Garden, Botanical Gardens, Monte Toboggan Run and Laurisilva Forest.

Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, an action-packed adventure or a peaceful retreat, I truly believe this is the perfect destination. Immerse yourself in luxury, comfort and natural beauty - and in doing so, you will create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

RATES

Rooms start at £550 a night including breakfast. All guests at The Reserve have access to a ‘Guest Experience Personal Assistant’, available around the clock. It’s these little touches that make The Reserve a ‘Leading Hotel of the World’.

savoysignature.com/thereservehotel

Beach club bliss

From Amalfi Coast chic to laidback Spanish bohemia, these elegant spots are where the cool crowd will hang this year for long, leisurely lunches and twinkling evenings of cocktails and ambient beats. Check out some of the most glamorous beach clubs to visit this summer…

MARINELLA BEACH CLUB - BORGO SANTANDREA

Perched on a cliffside 90m above sea level, overlooking the fisherman’s hamlet of Conca dei Marini, Amalfi Coast, is Borgo Santandrea. Debuting in full for the summer 2024 season, Borgo Santandrea has its very own private beach and suitably chic Marinella Beach Club - a stunning converted 19th century boat house that was once a haven for fishermen, before being transformed into a vibrant, elegant social hub where gourmands and sunseekers can revel from midday to midnight. The Marinella Beach Club can be reached by either strolling through the hotel’s magnificent gardens or by elevator from the top of the hotel. Under the culinary direction of executive chef, Crescenzo Scotti, the lunchtime beachside menu is all about the very best local ingredients and diners can also enjoy romantic moonlit evenings by the sea. borgosantandrea.it

ANTASIA BEACH CLUB - THANOS HOTELS & RESORTS

Set on the sandy beach of the Kato Pafos seafront is the charming Antasia Beach Club. Just minutes away from the iconic Almyra and Annabelle hotels, the club welcomes guests of all ages - locals and hotel residents alike. From morning coffees with a view, to relaxed beach days and parties under the stars, the club offers delicious all-day dining and drinking with the Mediterranean ocean lapping at guests’ feet. The club’s sleek, minimalist design is complemented by shades of white and blue throughout and custom-built furniture made in Cyprus. An impressive spiral staircase that leads towards the sky and an expansive terrace with views over Paphos Castle, is a defining feature. The food menu has been created by chef Akos Richweisz under the supervision of award-winning David Goodridge, executive chef of Thanos Hotels and Resorts. It features a fusion of Mediterranean and Asian flavours, combining locally sourced ingredients, herbs, and spices for a unique dining experience. Antasia brings an exciting vibrant venue to the shores of Cyprus, with ocean and sunset views and events for all, from cutting-edge art exhibitions and fashion events to visiting DJ nights. antasiabeachclub.com/home

ISOLOTTO BEACH CLUB - LA ROQQA BOUTIQUE HOTEL

This ultra-chic beachside destination is set in Porto Ercole, a charming Italian harbour town on Argentario Island off mainland Tuscany.

Born from a love affair with the breathtaking landscape and charming spirit of Monte Argentario, LA ROQQA is a chic boutique hotel with an accompanying spectacular Beach Club, Isolotto. As the first and only destination beach club on Argentario Island, this vibrant new hotspot will bring a contemporary meaning to Italian resort life in the alluring harbour town of Porto Ercole. Unique to the region’s rocky landscape, Isolotto is the only sandy stretch of coastline on the island. Where discreet luxury meets genuine hospitality, Isolotto is home to two vibrant beachside restaurants serving a fresh and colourful menu of locally sourced fish and seasonal grilled dishes. In true Italian ‘villeggiatura’ style, the shoreline is dotted with understated umbrellas and loungers, and for the more active beachgoer, an open-air gym and yoga pavilion is perfectly positioned on the sloping lawn steps from the shoreline. laroqqa.com

IL SAN CORRADO DI NOTO BEACH CLUB

Italian island escapes don’t get much better than Il San Corrado di Noto; a transformed ancient masseria in Val di Noto, Sicily’s serene UNESCO World Heritage destination, set just a stone’s throw away from the Sicilian seaside. Ideal for sun-drenched days, the resort is home to a private beach club. Here, guests can choose from sunbeds lining the soft white sand or lunch at the vibrant restaurant and bar looking out onto the warm azure blue of the Mediterranean Sea.

Serving grown up glamour at its very best, Il San Corrado Di Noto is steeped in elegance, offering total privacy, contemporary Baroque charm, and a bright and spacious design.

ilsancorradodinoto.com

FINCA CORTESIN’S BEACH CLUB

The independently owned Finca Cortesin, Andalusia is one of the finest luxury resorts in Europe. It comprises an award-winning 67-suite hotel; stunning contemporarydesigned villas for purchase and rental; one of the best championship golf courses in the world; an outstanding spa and sports facilities; some of the best Japanese raw cuisine outside of Japan; exclusive shopping area and, a beach club with dreamy 35m infinity pool. The resort is located in one of the most tranquil and sought-after enclaves of the Andalusian coast, not far from the picturesque village and sleepy hills of Casares, as well as within easy reach of Sotogrande, Marbella, and Malaga. The Beach Club is an elegant yet understated location featuring teak wood floors, lush gardens, Balinese beds, and ubercomfortable sun loungers dotted around a beautiful beachside infinity pool. Its restaurant and pool bar offer the best in Mediterranean cuisine including delectable paellas, seafood, and traditional Andalusian rice dishes, all impeccably served in true Finca Cortesin style.

fincacortesin.com/beach-club

Reimagining a Capri icon when it opened in summer 2023, Hotel La Palma dates back to 1822 - the first and oldest hotel on the island. A short drive from Capri’s southern coast, guests will discover Hotel La Palma’s elegant, yet buzzing Da Gioia by La Palma beach club in the Marina Piccola, home to the island’s most famous beaches and restaurants. Da Gioia invites visitors to enjoy all day dining with delicious offerings devised by Italian culinary hero, Michelinstarred chef Gennaro Esposito and curated by Executive Chef, Vincenzo Balzano. Also open to non-hotel guests, visitors come from yachts and neighbouring hotels as the beach club is a desired meeting place for long, lazy lunches. Internationally renowned interior designer, Francis Sultana oversaw Da Gioia’s chic transformation and with stunning views of the iconic Faraglioni, the club has 42 day beds, perfectly positioned for dips in Capri’s picturesque waters. oetkercollection.com/ hotel-la-palma

DA GIOIA BY HOTEL LA PALMA

Embrace the great outdoors

There are many joyful things that come with the summer months, one being the opportunity to extend your living space into the great outdoors. George Smith, British makers of luxury, handcrafted, upholstered furniture, share their high-performance, weather-grade pieces, just in time for garden party season

Design knows no boundaries, so why should you? As we approach the sunny season, and our thoughts turn to outdoor living, we’re ready to fling open our doors and extend our homes into the garden.

Our friends at George Smith are here to ensure we can live the luxe life in our outside spaces too.

Showcasing the best of George Smith craftship, their Outdoor Collection redefines outdoor furniture, with luxury, highperformance, weather-grade design that is built to last.

From super yachts to roof-tops, pool-sides to patios, the brand offers personalised, handmade upholstered furniture that is as comfortable and beautifully finished as their indoor collection.

The George Smith ethos is to create inspirational interiors using exceptional furniture. Quality is at the heart of everything they do, using only the best, responsibly sourced materials to ensure every handmade piece is comfortable, expertly finished, and built to last. And that goes for garden furniture too. Many of the brand’s iconic indoor designs can be created for the great outdoors, built to last in the elements.

Using sustainable timber, non-mould forming cushion and weatherproof hardware to avoid rusting, George Smith has the perfect outdoor upholstery to create spectacular exterior spaces.

The brand first moved into exterior design during the project with the iconic Soho House New York. For the members club and hotel, it was important to extend the comfort of the indoor George Smith furniture to the outdoor terrace, without compromising on quality, comfort or aesthetic.

A team of project development professionals

worked on several prototypes of different water resistant materials to ensure they were making outdoor furniture that would stand the test of time. A decade later, the original outdoor furniture created for Soho House New York, is still in use. Quality indeed. For many years, George Smith has made outdoor furniture for some of the world’s most prestigious projects. Their skilled in-house design team has used this experience to develop innovative ways of making outdoor furniture that is built to last. 128 of their iconic catalogue designs can be made into outdoor furniture with eight different wood finishes to choose from. George Smith builds outdoor furniture with five key principles in mind, to avoid water damage and keep the furniture looking crisp and stylish for years to come:

1. Only high-performing fabrics are used, particularly solution-dyed acrylic textiles, which means water beads on the surface and runs off. Additionally, they avoid certain designs with areas that could attract moisture so that water can evaporate efficiently off the surface of the piece.

2. Non-mould-forming cushions that don’t retain water are incorporated in the design to keep the interiors fresh and ensure water does not linger in the furniture.

3. Weatherproof hardware is used on all outdoor pieces of furniture to avoid rusting.

4. Protective covers are also available, to keep the furniture looking crisp and stylish for years to come.

5. The frames are coated in a protective finish and made from Iroko Wood, which is robust and resilient, offering strength and stability. Galvanised springs are used to prevent rusting, and propylene webbing, which is water and UV-resistant, helps water escape.

georgesmith.com

Accommodation over three floors I Extensive block paved driveway with triple garage I Gym with sauna l Cinema room I Extremely private rear garden

Extensive block paved drive I Quadruple garage I Family room overlooking garden I Kitchen breakfast room I Private established rear garden I EPC rating C

A luxury property located on a large corner plot in Wynyard Woods.

Charles Church built property with 4/5 bedrooms overlooking Wynyard’s Wellington Golf Course

Durham

Wynyard 0191 384 2277 01740 645 444

info@durhamfineandcountry.co.uk

info@wynyardfineandcountry.co.uk

ROHAN COTTAGE LOW HEDLEYHOPE, CO. DURHAM

£575,000

MAYNARD GROVE WYNYARD WOODS

£499,950

creative and intelligent marketing of individual and country property

3 4 3 2

3 4 3 2

Rear courtyard I One acre paddock I Extensive lawned area I Large workshop

Four bedroom detached property I South facing private rear garden I Spacious family accommodation I EPC rating tbc

Fabulous barn conversion that combines the character of an original stone building with all the modern features of a contemporary home in a beautiful rural location.

Located in a quiet cul-de-sac position set back from the road this ‘Georgian’ design home offers versatile family accommodation and spacious room sizes.

HOT PROPERTY

A look inside this stunning self-build project in North Northumberlandthe beautiful new home of Lydia and Arthur Achard…

THE LOWDOWN >>

Lowick House is a new-build timber-frame family home created by Lydia and Arthur Achard in a spectacular rural setting five miles from Lindisfarne, off the Northumberland coast. It was designed by architect Giles Arthur Architects, with the timber frame supplied by Fleming Homes. Technical design and realisation was by Fleming Homes’ Asher Humprey-Martin and project management by the Achards themselves.

As a couple with a young family, Lydia and Arthur had fallen in love with the peace, beauty and wildlife of the local area, and were keen to make a home that would grow with them and prove sustainable, both environmentally and financially.

“We both grew up in the countryside,” says Arthur.

“And wanted to keep the charm and character of the area and make something that settles back into its surroundings.”

THE TRANSFORMATION >>

This is a new build comprising two distinct elements linked by a spectacular glass winter garden. The couple’s design vision was inspired by the footprint of a farmhouse and steading ruin on the site, which was uninhabited for some 50 years.

“The land was taking it back, with trees

growing through,” says Lydia.

“We used the original footprint and a lot of the old stone, giving the site a new lease of life in keeping with its original spirit.”

The two-storey farmhouse section is based on the quirky original footprint and consists of three spacious bedrooms, family bathroom, ensuite, family kitchen, pantry, dining room, family room and cloakroom. A sloped roof window provides stunning views across the fields from the mezzanine balcony. Externally the building is finished in limestone, reclaimed from the derelict steading buildings.

The single-storey L-section houses flexible guest accommodation and a garage and is timber clad, resembling a black barn in appearance. Inside it is light and airy, with French windows creating flow between indoors and out. Both sections are roofed with traditional orange clay pantiles, in keeping with the vernacular of the pre-existing buildings.

The winter garden is a new addition to the original footprint, linking the separate steading foundations into one seamless building and acting as a transition between the private and guest-facing areas. This modern design features extensive glazing, with French windows, full-height side windows and an overhead angled roof light which offers starry dark sky views. The resulting space is light and open, and incorporates beautiful, exposed stonework excavated by Arthur from the original farmhouse foundations.

“The walls were nearly two feet thick, so this was a huge undertaking,” admits Arthur. “I was out every day with a steel saw, stacking pallets of stone.”

The design shows great sensitivity to local architectural and farming heritage, combining historical inspiration and

recycled building materials alongside modern technology and design solutions. The contemporary winter garden makes the most of the views, while creating a natural transition between the private and guest-facing sections of the building.

The three-in-one building design called for three different roof solutions (vaulted, raised tie and horizontal) which needed to be linked and provide thermal continuity – a considerable technical challenge. During the build, several adjustments had to be made to the frames and roof trusses, all of which were made possible by close collaboration with a responsive team, willing to adapt to a dynamic site situation. This resulted in comparably favourable u-value ratings for the external walls and roof areas.

Arthur says: “It was amazing to see it turn up on the back of a lorry in sections and then just slot together. Linking the two building elements called for minute accuracy and the Fleming Homes team were on site working closely with the joiners, for no extra charge. Whenever there was an issue, they were here to sort it out. They wanted us to be happy as customers and we were very grateful for their support.”

The timber frame structural system was essential to the success of this project, say Lydia and Arthur. Timber frame flexibility allowed the architect and builders to respond to the quirky site footprint, and create a complex three-in-one building that can evolve with the couple’s future needs. The erection time to wind-and-watertight in three weeks was vital, because of the remote location and changeable Northumbrian coastal weather. This short timespan also minimised the impact on the couple’s two children, who were being homeschooled during the Covid pandemic, as well as

disruption to the working farm, which provided access to the site.

As the Achards explained, they’d previously owned old, draughty buildings, and were attracted to the sustainable qualities of timber as a construction material, as well as the reduced running costs.

“The flexibility and sustainability was a big thing for us,” says Lydia.

“Don’t underestimate what can be done with wood as a product.”

Arthur’s reuse of existing stone excavated from the site, and a ground source heat pump, contributed further to the building’s eco-friendly credentials.

THE RESULTS >>

The outcome of their efforts is a unique property, achieved during uncertain times, with huge input from the self-builders themselves. Lydia and Arthur’s superpower was to surround themselves with excellent trades and firms, including Fleming Homes, who were willing to support them with advice and guidance at all the critical points, to ensure they achieved their vision.

The couple highly recommend Fleming Homes and say: “If we did it again, we’d definitely go back! Thank you to all the people who helped us to achieve this dream house.”

The Achards have achieved an outstanding home in terms of quality and design which is fit for their evolving requirements, for a low price per square metre, largely due to their hands-on approach. When Arthur’s workload serving the live events industry was drastically reduced during covid, he was able to do much of the work himself.

This included demolishing the existing buildings, marking out trenches and pouring the concrete slab, excavating stone,

installation of the underfloor heating, site fitted insulation, all plumbing pipework, sanitary ware as well as the ground source heat pump. Lydia, meanwhile, looked after the interior design, research, and project management.

ABOUT THE DESIGNER >>

The Achard’s decided to move into the house and decorate as they went along so that they would have a better idea of where the light fell through the property and what colours and furniture would suit. Lydia took the lead on the interiors, seeking out colour schemes and themes that caught her eye on instagram and magazines initially and bringing her ideas together with the help

of their local joiners and decorators. The heart of the house, the kitchen, was inspired by a high-end London based company.

Enlisting the help of local Callerton Kitchens to recreate the same wow factor aesthetic within the couples budget.

“We spent money on the right colours, good-quality handles, Corian worktops and colourful local art,” says Lydia.

“Fabrics were sourced and made by Annabel Mills using fabrics supplied by Northumberland designer, Charlotte Gaisford.

“We’re delighted with the result and though the house is finished, it’s constantly evolving and we’ve only just scratched the surface of what’s possible”.

At Complete Flooring Solutions, we are an independent family business that strives to excel in every aspect of our operations and provide unparalleled customer service to every customer.

When you step into our showroom, you can expect a warm welcome and the coffee maker “Paul” is always at the ready to make your browsing experience all the more enjoyable.

We are proud to employ an incredible team of experienced fitters who hold themselves to the highest standards of craftsmanship, working on homes to large commercial projects.

Our selection of flooring options is vast and varied, with LVT, Carpet, Vinyl, Engineered Wood, Laminate, and Commercial Flooring products all available to peruse.

Our lineup of brands includes Moduleo, Riviera Home, Rols of Spain, Crucial Trading, Alternative Flooring, Elements of London, and Kersaint Cobb, to name but a few.

Credit: Kate Buckingham, katebuckingham.com

EXTERIOR INSPIRATION

Garden party

Nkuku

Jara Planter with Stand, Terracotta and Iron £23.33, seymourshome.com

Rowen Homes Zanzibar Acacia Wood Double Outdoor Daybed £999, rowenhomes.com

Cult Furniture

Metal Pineapple Ice Bucket, Gold Brass £75, cultfurniture.com

Barker & Stonehouse

Annabel James Dig the Garden Large Tray £44.95, annabeljames.co.uk

The Cotswold Company Stroud 4 Piece Garden Lounge Set £999, thecotswoldco.com

Staycation Vintage Parasols Dark Sands/Antique White Large Tassel Fringed Beach and Garden Parasol £225, staycationvintageparasols.com

Gozney Dome Outdoor Oven £1,799,

Very

Navigate Three Rivers 4 Person Basket Picnic Set £94.99, very.co.uk

Ivyline Outdoor Artisan Fire Pit

Cult Furniture

Aubrey Corner Garden Sofa Set, Green & Natural £1,799, cultfurniture.com

LUXE MAMA

with Elysia Fryer

Be inspired with holiday kit, travel tips and summer fashion

Summer loving…

These ‘in between spring and summer’ months are very kind to us parents. The sun is shining and we’re able to venture outside, but we’ve not quite reached those balmy days chasing our little people with caps and suncream!

Things have ramped up a level or two in our house with Nora now on the move, so being able to swing open the patio doors and create more space for little legs to explore, is a big win.

In April, we squeezed in our first family holiday of 2024 - a beachy break which was beautiful and busy in equal measure!

Summer buys

Little luxe holiday kit list…

Ralph Lauren Baby Boys Green Polo Bear Bucket Hat £42, childrensalon.com

The key to tackling travelling with kids is preparation. From the packing to the itinerary planning - it is far from my usual ‘just go with it’ holiday approach, but it is so worth it.

With that being said, I’ve picked out some of our essentials when it comes to packing up the suitcase for a summer holiday, and we’ve been chatting to James Brockbank, founder of The Family Vacation Guide, for tips on how to make life easier when travelling with tots.

Oh, and we’re adding a splash of colour to our spring/summer wardrobes with PO.P’s cheerful new range. Check it out!

Elysia, George and Nora x

My Little Coco Beach Bum Sea Socks £16, mylittlecoco.co.uk

Artipoppe Zeitgeist Monogamy Maiden in Organic Cotton £340, shop.artipoppe.com

Liewood Waylon Sea Creature Magic Water Book £13, babymori.com

Scandibørn Liewood Darla Mr Bear 0-3 years, Tuscany Rose £27, scandiborn.co.uk

The White Company

Crochet Flower Vest & Shorts Set (0-18 months) £48, thewhitecompany.com

Tips for travelling with tots

James Brockbank, Founder of The Family Vacation Guide, gives us his five top tips to make life easier when travelling with kids this summer…

SNACK STASH

Pack a 'snack stash' for unexpected hunger emergencies. Hunger pangs can strike at any time, but a stash of snacks readily available can save the day. Pack a mix of non-perishable items like granola bars, dried fruit, and crackers. This will keep your little ones (and you!) happy and energised during long journeys or delays.

ENTERTAINMENT KID

Create a 'kids' entertainment kit' with surprises to keep your children engaged and entertained - small toys, colouring books, reusable stickers and puzzles etc. Hide these surprises in your bag and unveil them at strategic moments during the trip. The element of surprise will make it more exciting for your kids and help alleviate boredom.

CUBE PACKING

Invest in lightweight, space-saving packing cubes. These handy organisers not only keep your luggage tidy but also maximise space. Each child can have their own cube,

making finding their clothes and accessories easy. Additionally, packing cubes help prevent the dreaded 'suitcase explosion' when searching for a specific item. It's a game-changer for stress-free travel!

SAFETY FIRST

Always pack a compact first-aid kit. Accidents can happen anytime, anywhere - especially with active kids. Include essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any necessary medications. Being prepared for minor mishaps will give you peace of mind and ensure that you're ready to handle any unexpected situations.

LAUNDRY ON-THE-GO

Pack a portable laundry bag! Many parents overlook the importance of having a designated bag for dirty laundry. Instead of mixing clean and soiled clothes together, pack a lightweight, collapsible laundry bag. This way, you can easily separate the dirty laundry from the clean clothes and maintain organisation throughout your trip.

Sunny season style with PO.P

Swedish kidswear brand PO.P has dropped a delightful new spring/summer collection and our little luxe people are loving this cheerful range…

From floral fits and soft stripes to animal prints, this exciting new collection is as cute as can be, offering everything from dresses and leggings to tees, dungarees and sunsafe accessories for those warmer days.

This season’s sunsafe accessories include a range of caps and sun hats designed to protect little ones from harmful rays. With 100% organic cotton and UV protective fabrics, these delightful accessories have got kids covered from the paddling pool, to the park and the beach. The collection in its entirety is made of high-quality, sustainable materials with robust trims. Roll down cuffs on the garments offer that extra bit of growing room for little ones, meaning PO.P kidswear lasts that little bit longer! With the promise that every garment will last a minimum of three children, these

pieces are individually designed with fun and functionality in mind. The soft, cheery colour palette is designed to be mixed and matched throughout the entire collection. You are never too young for a capsule closet! Passionate about the circular fashion movement, the brand continues to show its commitment to quality and sustainability with its industry leading PO.P Second Hand scheme. So confident in the longevity of its timeless garments, shoppers can trade in any items they no longer want or have outgrown, in exchange for a voucher to spend on new and second-hand items. Not only ensuring nothing ends up in landfill, but offering a sustainable way to switch up the wardrobe.

Shaping young minds

From his formative years at Dame Allan’s Schools to his dynamic career in retail, Mark Dolder, CEO of Bazaar Group, exemplifies the transformative power of education, hard work and community support

What can you tell us about The Lectures series you’re currently supporting at Dame Allan’s?

The Lectures isn't your typical speaker event; it's an exciting platform where senior school students and their families get to hear from accomplished professionals across various fields. From captivating talks by international speakers, to insightful discussions led by successful entrepreneurs and business leaders, it offers students a unique opportunity to gain valuable insights and inspiration for their future endeavours. In a nutshell, it's a dynamic blend of wisdomsharing and interactive engagement designed to ignite curiosity and foster personal growth among the students!

Why was it important for you to work with the school on this project?

Collaborating with Dame Allan’s on The Lectures series is a meaningful opportunity to give back to my alma mater, support the development of future leaders and contribute to the enrichment of educational experiences for current students.

I understand the importance of mentorship and exposure to diverse perspectives in shaping young minds. By bringing inspiring speakers to Dame Allan’s, we aim to broaden students' horizons, spark curiosity and instil a sense of ambition and possibility. It's a way to show my appreciation to the school that played a significant role in shaping my journey while also investing in the potential of future generations. Having personally benefited greatly from this, I’m passionate about encouraging others to give back too.

How do you look back on your time at school, and how do you think it has shaped you as an individual and in business?

Despite not being the stereotypical academic standout, the holistic education I received at Dame Allan’s certainly equipped me with skills and values that have influenced my approach to business and life. Its supportive environment instilled in me huge confidence and a sense of resilience and determination that has been crucial in navigating the challenges and setbacks inherent in the

operational management roles, culminating in taking senior responsibility for M&S' second-largest store in Manchester. I then took a job as Sales Director of Norweb Retail, where I spearheaded the growth of the business from £90m turnover to £270m turnover in just three years.

It was on returning to the region in the late 90s, I worked as Sales Director for The Edinburgh Woollen Mill and after we sold that business, I transitioned into entrepreneurship in 2004 joining my wife Jayne, who had created a beanbag business from her kitchen table! With perseverance, long hours and the support of family, we surpassed expectations, achieving significant milestones in our first year of trading. This early success set the blueprint for a business driven by hard work, a 'can do' attitude and a genuine commitment to our employees. Today, Bazaar Group has firmly established itself as the category leader in soft seating, headquartered in Cramlington with a turnover of £15m, growing quickly having recently opened a 4,000 sqm European manufacturing and distribution facility in Hamburg.

How did it feel to be able to set up such a successful business in the region?

The North East is a brilliant place to grow a business - we’ve been able to attract people with the talent, energy and pride in their work. Coupled with this, the region's network of suppliers and professional services firms share our dedication to quality and embrace a culture of positivity and good humour. This collaborative environment provided the ideal backdrop for our business to flourish both regionally and internationally.

business world, while the values of integrity, discipline and high standards have served as guiding principles.

An emphasis on teamwork and collaboration through extracurricular activities, especially sports, instilled in me an appreciation for the power of effective leadership and cohesive teamwork. In business, I've found that success often hinges on the ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, clients and stakeholders towards common goals. The interpersonal skills and teamwork ethos cultivated at school have been instrumental in building strong professional relationships and driving collective success in business.

Can you tell us about your career journey to ‘the now’?

After leaving school, I secured a sought-after place on Marks and Spencer's management training scheme. During 14 years with the company, I worked across 14 stores in

And finally, what are your three luxe things in life?

Drive - I have been blessed with decent energy and health and I have my fair share of ego and insecurity. So, I’m constantly looking to prove to myself and those around me that we can always achieve more and do better. The challenge is to make that journey enjoyable and rewarding for all.

Curiosity - I'm naturally nosey when it comes to people and fascinated in the world and what makes it go round. So, travelling to far flung places and being the dimmest person in the room tend to provide me with joy and future inspiration.

Family and friends - I'm really fortunate that I like all of my family, even ‘the outlaws’! They are my ultimate raison d'etre and support. I'm equally fortunate to have a variety of interests so watching sports, going to gigs or generally socialising with work colleagues and friends is really important to me.

dameallans.co.uk

School noticeboard

Luxe checks in with some local schools on their latest news, achievements and highlights…

Inspiring sports stars North East rugby icon leads inspiring session for female rugby players at Dame Allan’s School

Sarah Hunter CBE - who led England to Six Nations victory in 2021 and 2022 - visited Dame Allan’s in February to lead a special rugby session for young girls from Years 7, 8 and 9.

The North Shields-born rugby union star joined the youngsters from Dame Allan’s Girls’ School in a dedicated after-school training event where she offered top tips and advice, such as the importance of verbal communication during a match, as well as lessons on strategy and making space. In a post-training Q&A session, Sarah spoke passionately about her love for rugby and the progress that has been made with regards to women within the sport. Speaking about the event, Sarah said:

Huge support for Little Lives

Premature baby charity given £10,000 boost by a charity ball, organied by Yarm Prep School Social Committee

North East-based children’s charity, NeoAngels, recently received £10,639 following a charity fundraising ball, organised by the Yarm Prep School Social Committee (YPSSC).

The cruise-themed event, named, ‘The Captain’s Ball’ saw Yarm’s Princess Alexandra Auditorium transformed into a 5-star cruise liner, bringing together people from across Teesside and the Tees Valley to raise money for an important cause.

NeoAngels is a charity which supports the special care baby unit at the University Hospital of North Tees and the neonatal unit at The James Cook University Hospital. Both units provide care to hundreds of premature and poorly babies every year,

LITTLE MOMENTS

with Nadia McSheffrey

The summer term was always one of my favourites growing up. I don’t know about you but when I think back to my time at school, the days out and residential trips at the end of the year were always a highlight

“It was great to see the girls at Dame Allan’s getting stuck into the training session.

One of my favourite things about rugby is the people, you become like a family, and this all starts at a young age, playing at club matches and giving rugby a go. I’d always encourage girls to try rugby as a sport, they’ll often find that they have transferable skills learned in netball or hockey. There is such potential for women within rugby now, that was not there even when I was at school. It is fantastic to witness.”

Dame Allan’s has a thriving cohort of female rugby players. In early 2023, the school pledged that all girls should get the opportunity to play rugby, either for fun, or competitively. This year, Dame Allan’s U14s girls team will be making their debut at the prestigious national 7s competition, held at Rosslyn Park, in London. dameallans.co.uk

as well as support for their families.

The decision to raise money for NeoAngels was made by Balinder and Jasdeep Ladhar, parents and active members of the YPSSC.

The charity holds a special place in their hearts, having provided invaluable assistance and support during their daughter’s 33-day stay in the special care unit following her early arrival.

Bill Sawyer, Head at Yarm Prep School, said: “Gratitude abounds for the incredible support and generosity from parents and local businesses, making the ball’s live and online auctions resounding successes.

“Learning about the impactful work of the charity, dedicated to supporting families in our community, was truly enlightening. Not only do they offer an array of services for families, including financial and emotional support, they also fundraise to provide much needed equipment for the units.

“We extend a heartfelt thank you to the YPSSC for their outstanding efforts in ensuring the success of the ball, and to all those who contributed in various capacities.”

Supporters of the event included: Lucy and Mark Howard, Aspire Technology Solutions, Denplan, J&B Dental Group, Sweden & Martina Dental Implants, and sports professionals Kieran Trippier, Jordan Pickford, Andrew Davies, and Ryan Sidebottom. yarmschool.org

When you take away the restrictions of the four walls of a classroom, something magical happens. Children have a newfound sense of curiosity, awe and wonder. They are so much more engaged because they have a sense of independence and everything is new and exciting. Unfortunately, the current system often forgets that schooling and education are different. Schooling within a building is just part of education. Learning can take place in many different environments, not just on a seat, staring at a whiteboard or iPad. In fact, the traditional physical setting of a classroom isn’t always the best place for many children to learn. If you’ve ever had to sit through a training session or seminar where you are forced to be passive and just listen for hours at a time, you’ll know how quickly your creative juices dry up.

For many schools, headteachers are having to really tighten their purse-strings and it means that surplus money for trips, extra-curricular activities and special events just isn’t there. This is out of our control as parents, but the good news is that we can control what happens to our children outside of school hours. We can ensure that their education is balanced and acknowledges the whole child, not just the brain. We can engage their hearts and their bodies together with their minds.

Psychologist David A. Kolb coined the term ‘experiential learning’ in 1984 and it describes how we learn through experience and by interacting with the world and people around us. Experiential learning is very often unstructured; it has no rules or time limits and involves minimal adult intervention. In this kind of learning, children always discover things organically and choose their pace and terms. As Kolb says: “There are two goals in the experiential learning process. One is to learn the specifics of a particular subject, and the other is to learn about one’s own learning process.”

We are very good at making decisions for our children, hovering over them and deciding that something is too risky or too easy; however, when we take simple decisions away from our children, when they grow, they may feel incapable and struggle to trust themselves. Children are so much more capable than we give them credit for.

Therefore, it’s so important for children to develop life-skills outside of the

classroom. CEOs and entrepreneurs were asked recently about the traits people need to be successful in the world of work today and in the future. These were the characteristics they came up with: creativity, flexibility, resilience, resourcefulness, empathy, working collaboratively, self-discipline, confidence, passion, reliability, being organised, competency, being a good communicator and an active listener. Yes, we can learn how to be competent, reliable and organised in a classroom environment, but it’s the wider world that can teach us all of the other skills.

My son attended an exceptional outdoor nursery and it was the best decision I ever made. He was learning how to light fires, use tools, make bread, care for nature and understand the world around him at the age of 3. I remember taking him on a woodland walk and he decided that he wanted to build a dam so the otters could collect fish. Already he had a real-life purpose and so he was motivated and determined to see the task through to the end. I was there simply as his apprentice and a sounding-board when he wanted to share ideas. I can still remember his face when he finished his project. He was so proud of his workmanship.

When children are engaged in experiential learning they often have the chance to be more creative and thus see mistakes as valuable learning opportunities. Children tend to be more enthusiastic when they are given autonomy and the time and space to discover and then reflect upon their learning. There’s lots of research to say that children often grasp concepts quicker and more thoroughly when they are involved physically.

The good news for us as parents is that we are very fortunate in the North East to be surrounded by some of the most glorious natural habitats in the country. Taking your children to the coast, natural parks or the numerous local rivers is a great place to start if you want to encourage experiential learning. We are also a region blessed with world-renowned museums, art galleries and cultural centres. Places like the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, Seven Stories, RSPB Saltholme Nature Reserve, Beamish, The Glasshouse, and Arbeia Roman Fort are all fabulous places for children to really immerse themselves in learning. In fact, the current tag-line for the Life Science Centre is ‘Hands-on. Minds-on.’ I couldn’t have said it better myself.

AT THE WHEEL

with Bob Arora

Electric avenue

Bob Arora gets behind the wheel of BMW’s new iX2…

The X5 launched back in 1999 and was an instant sales success. BMW had created a new niche, and the SUV (sports utility vehicle) was launched to the world.

We now have the XM, X7, X6, X4, X3, X2 and the X1. Considering most manufacturers have a similar line-up, our love for SUVs doesn’t seem to be diminishing. Lotus have recently launched their first electric SUV, as have Rolls Royce, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Aston Martin and Bentley. Given our love for these cars, it’s no wonder manufacturers are jumping on the SUV bandwagon.

If you’d like the new Ferrari Purosangue or the Rolls Royce Cullinan, you’ll be waiting for at least two or three years before you get one, if you are lucky.

I’ve been driving the new BMW iX2, which BMW calls a SAV (sports activity vehicle). The outgoing X2 was one of my favourite cars in the BMW range. Not only was it a beautiful-looking car, but it was also great to drive. The X2 is essentially the coupé version of the X1, which looks much more sporty with its sloping roofline and coupé silhouette. This is the first electric 2 Series available as a front-wheel drive version. With one motor, the eDrive 20M achieves 201 horsepower. As a four-wheel drive car with two motors, the xDrive 30M gives the car around 300 horsepower. There’s also one petrol 2 Series available. That said, BMW expects 90% of sales to be electric cars.

The car’s battery pack is 66kw, which equates to 297 miles in the base model, or 265 miles, which any electric car owner

knows isn’t what you’ll realistically get, especially in cold weather or when you need to use the air-con. I’d say, you should get close to 250 miles and nearer 210 in the range-topping car.

The xDrive 30M gets to 62mph in 5.6 seconds and its top speed is 112mph. Like all electric cars, the power is instant the second you put your foot down on the accelerator.

The car’s regenerative braking is done automatically with no manual control, making it easy to drive without having to touch the brake pedal.

The car has a boost button which gives you ten seconds of power. Using this button regularly will eat into your range, but it’s good fun!

The car looks slightly larger than the outgoing X2. In their wisdom, the designers have decided to ditch my favourite aspect of the X2 - BMW badges on the rear quarter panels.

One thing you can’t miss is the new large kidney grille at the front, which is part of the new design. This was first seen in the 7 Series and is certainly a distinctive feature. BMW’s M division has gone to town with spoilers and aerodynamic tweaks all over the car. The 20” alloys look stunning and really add to the car’s sporty aesthetic. When you get inside the car, you are greeted with a lovely thick steering wheel - a real BMW trademark.

You can’t miss the impressive screen, which is slightly curved and is split for the driver and the passenger. You also can’t help but notice the lack of buttons on the dash. The middle armrest now controls all of the drive modes (personal, sports and efficient), the

gearbox, the handbrake and the stop-start button. When driving the car in sports mode, the interior lighting turns red and the car’s throttle and braking are turned up a notch. Driving the car in efficient mode adds approximately 30 extra miles to the car's range, which is ideal if you’ve been driving in sports mode and the range has dropped substantially. The designers have ditched the iDrive, which was so easy to use. Everything is now controlled via the media screen. I particularly liked the phone charging point. I thought I’d spotted a design flaw as my phone moved around once I started driving. However, I shouldn’t have worried, as there was an adjustable bracket to keep the phone in place. There’s more than enough storage space for any knick-knacks you may have, along with plenty of USB ports for any iPads etc. The panoramic roof, head-up display screen, Harman Kardon speakers and Alcantara

fabric on the dash and doors all help give the car a real quality feel.

Getting in the rear of the car, you’ll notice just how sloped it is for headroom. It’s still a comfortable place for me to sit, however, if you are over 6ft tall then that might not be the case!

There’s ample room in the boot for most family bags, and there is a section under the boot floor to store any charging cables which frees up some much-needed space. I thoroughly enjoyed my time in this car. Anyone looking to join the electric revolution should look no further, as this car ticks all the boxes.

Car supplied by Vertu BMW Boldon

Use this QR code for a video walk-through the BMW iX2

BMW iX2. eDrive20 M SPORT.

£5,870.29 CUSTOMER DEPOSIT. 47 MONTHLY PAYMENTS OF £599. 3.9% APR REPRESENTATIVE.

SEARCH: Vertu BMW

BMW Select Representative example: BMW iX2 eDrive20 M Sport

Term of agreement

48 months 47 Monthly Payments £599

road cash price £51,615

deposit

Based on 8,000 miles per annum*. Excess mileage charge 18.38p per annum.

BMW Teesside

Preston Farm Industrial Estate TS18 3RB

Tel: 0330 178 4850

BMW Sunderland Boldon Business Park NE36 0BQ

Tel: 0330 178 4709

BMW Durham Belmont Industrial Estate DH1 1HP

Tel: 0330 178 4782

fixed Representative 3.9% APR

Fuel Consumption figures for the BMW iX2 eDrive20 M Sport. Electric range in miles (WLTP): 259-266. Energy consumption combined in kWh/100 mph (WLTP): 3.5-3.7. CO2 emissions: 0g/km.

All figures calculated are under WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light-Duty Vehicles Test Procedure) regulations, which measure fuel, energy consumption, range and emissions in passenger vehicles in Europe. This is designed to provide figures closer to real-world driving behaviour. Range dependent on ambient temperature, battery state of charge and condition, driving style, vehicle payload, vehicle electronics, heating and climate settings.

We are a credit broker and not a lender.Finance is subject to status and finance company

We can

to a

number of

and their finance products. We will typically receive a commission from the lender, as either a

or a

you borrow. The commission we earn does not change by the type of finance. A guarantee may be required. The finance rate will vary dependent of customer personal circumstances for in dealership purchases. Library image for illustration purposes only. Vertu BMW is a trading name of Vertu Motors (Continental) Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Company registration number 02156457. VAT Registration number

Team Valley, Gateshead, NE11 0XA.

Good enough for Bond

The Jaguar C-X75, one of only four surviving stunt cars from the James Bond movie Spectre, has been re-engineered and enhanced by CALLUM

A Jaguar C-X75 used in Spectre’s dramatic car chase has been substantially re-engineered by CALLUM, a British design and engineering house, to make it road legal. It made its public debut on 21 April at the Bicester Heritage Scramble.

Originally created by the Jaguar Design team, led by Ian Callum in 2010, the Jaguar C-X75 played a starring role in 007’s action sequences filmed in the Vatican City. Four of the stunt cars survived with this particular chassis, Car Seven, the only one now licenced for UK road use after extensive work by CALLUM’s engineers.

Built by Williams Advanced Engineering for the 2015 film, the C-X75 stunt cars were designed to withstand punishing chase scenes. Constructed around a robust, tubular spaceframe chassis with rallyderived suspension and Jaguar’s 5.0 litre, supercharged V8 engine, CALLUM’s private customer commissioned the Warwick-based team to transform the C-X75 for road use whilst carefully preserving its iconic history.

To achieve the Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) certification needed for UK road use, CALLUM’s engineers made hundreds of changes including new E-marked glass, switchgear, a quieter exhaust and catalytic convertors along with associated engine calibration tuning. Having previously achieved IVA for other niche cars not originally destined for the road, such as Aston Martin’s DB4 GT Continuation Series, CALLUM has accumulated significant experience to develop low volume, novel

engineered solutions. Examples on the C-X75 include creating new wing mirrors with integrated side repeaters to replace the foam models used on the stunt car. In addition to satisfying the legislative requirements, CALLUM’s craftspeople sought solutions to improve the quality of the bodywork and fittings. Surplus quick release latches, essential to enable access during filming, were removed. Panel gaps were reduced and aligned, the carbon fibre surface finish was enhanced, carefully resurfaced and repainted.

The original stunt car C-X75 was praised for its taut body control, sharp steering and agility. Led by CALLUM engineering director Adam Donfrancesco, its in-house engineers ensured the fluid and engaging driving dynamics were retained by making detailed but minor adjustments to dampers and ride height.

“Stunt cars are arguably the true stars, bringing to life the legendary scenes that stay with us as car enthusiasts,” says Donfrancesco.

“So few actually survive the rigours of filming, preservation was key whilst meeting the legislation and it’s great we can reveal it to the enthusiastic Scramblers.

“Ian Callum and CALLUM have been long-time supporters and friends of Bicester Heritage, so we are delighted to be able to showcase their latest work on the C-X75. It is surely one of the finest chapters in his impressive back catalogue, and to see it on the road would be an unforgettable sight,” says Dan Geoghegan, chief executive, Bicester Motion.

About CALLUM

CALLUM is a design and engineering business that creates and crafts its own bespoke and limited-edition products, and provides consultancy and services to partners and third parties. Combining progressive design with engineering that pushes boundaries, CALLUM’s products and services span automotive, lifestyle, and travel.

CALLUM takes a collaborative approach: bringing together a team of 20+ talented individuals with experience across art, audio, automotive, fashion and motorsport, as well as embracing opportunities to collaborate with other businesses. Striving to build a legacy through innovative design and engineering, CALLUM takes on projects that intrigue and excite, creating stories that stir the imagination.

Established in July 2019, CALLUM’s founding members include British designer Ian Callum CBE, admired for his prolific automotive work that includes the Aston Martin Vanquish. Through its Next Generation initiative, CALLUM strives to support and nurture young minds and talent, fostering an environment that encourages peer-topeer learning to ensure CALLUM remains relevant, progressive, and true to its roots. callumdesigns.com

Veja

Galago

MAN KIT

Cool kit

Bags packed for a stylish summer

Campo Fleece-Lined Leather Trainers £84, julesb.co.uk

Joe Turtle Peach & Navy Swim Shorts £75, galagojoe.com

Molton Brown Ultra Light Bai Ji Hydrator £26, fenwick.co.uk

Frescobol Carioca Roberto Printed Silk-satin Shirt £295, harveynichols.com

Tommy Hilfiger THB Seersucker Swim £65, flannels.com

Reiss Alton Slim Fit Ribbed Cuban Collar Shirt £88, reiss.com

Beams Plus Mil Hat, Ivory Herringbone £98, endclothing.com

Nahmias Palm Tree Coast Printed Cotton T-shirt £210, harveynichols.com

Tom Ford Tamara2 Round-frame Sunglasses £325, harveynichols.com

Birkenstock Arizona Faded Lime Suede Sandals £105, endclothing.com

Dock & Bay Everyday Tote BagWhitsunday Blue £16, uk.dockandbay.com

Polo Ralph Lauren Polo Script Logo Cap £65, flannels.com

Reiss Ruban Linen Button Through Shirt £98, reiss.com

Make Father’s Day luxe

Let us guide you through some of the best ways to treat dad in the North East this Father’s Day…

Wine & dine >>

The Broad Chare

If a delicious Sunday roast is the way to your dad’s heart, then get ahead of the game and book a table at The Broad Chare - a proper pub serving proper food! It offers all the best bits of a traditional ale house, with a modern twistand a seriously good Sunday dinner. Choose from topside beef, shoulder of pork and shoulder of lamb, served with all the trimmings - and a ‘proper’ hand-pulled beer for dad. thebroadchare.co.uk

The Glass House, Wynyard Hall

Celebrate Father’s Day at The Glass House, Wynyard Hall. Dine here between 12th and 15th June and dad will be treated to a beer on the house! Set in Wynyard Hall’s stunning Kitchen Garden, this plot-to-plate restaurant is all about championing home-grown produce handpicked from the estate. It’s a real treat for all the family, and the perfect chance to raise a glass to the man in your life. wynyardhall.co.uk

The Crathorne Arms

This charming country pub near Yarm is a box-ticker when it comes to feeding the family this Father’s Day. You can guarantee a glorious feast in an enchanting, antique-filled environment. With Eugene McCoy at the helm, it’s easy to see why this place stands the test of time as a North East favourite. Sundays are always buzzy here - even more so when there’s something to celebrate. Gather the gang and treat dad to something really special. thecrathornearms.co.uk

The Bay Horse

Gift giving >>

Treat the man in your life to a spot of fine dining with a trip to The Bay Horse. Located in the picturesque village of Hurworth-on-Tees near Darlington, go to this charming country pub for an abundance of flavour-packed dishes including favourites such as grand reserve sirloin, pressed belly pork and pan fried bream. Washed down with a perfectly poured pint, or a bottle of wine. thebayhorsehurworth.com

NEST

NEST is a neighbourhood restaurant born from a shared love of great food and wine - the perfect recipe for treating someone you love this Father’s Day. From its home on Chillingham Road in Heaton, NEST serves up some of the finest Sunday lunch dishes in the region. Kick things off with starters such as game terrine, tandoori fried chicken and smoked salmon tartare, feast on mains including low and slow pork belly, veggie haggis fritters and 12-hour braised Northumbrian lamb shoulder, and sweeten the deal with sticky stout pudding, strawberry nest mess and milk chocolate cookie, to name but a few. nestinthenorth.com

Byredo

Sunday Cologne Eau de Parfum, 100ml £200, endclothing.com Assouline

Smythson Folded Card Case with Snap Closure in Panama £160, harveynichols.com

Sean Elliott Photography

Father’s Day Chocolate & Cupcake Workshop

Join Mrs BouCake at South Causey Inn for a delicious Chocolate & Cupcake Workshop ahead of Father’s Day. It’s a great opportunity to create something special for that important man in your life. You’ll learn how to colour buttercream, make your own piping tips, and stencil printed words - perfect tips for cupcake decoration. Your finished sweet treats will be beautifully presented in a gift box, ready to take home for dad. southcausey.co.uk

Weber Barbecue Classics - The Cookery Club at The Grand, York

Is dad the king of the barbecue in your house? Could he do with working on his skills? Either way, The Cookery School at The Grand hotel in York is hosting a special Weber Barbecue Classics workshop on Saturday 15 June, and it’s the great early Father’s Day gift. He’ll learn the barbecue basics from lighting and temperature control, to recognising when food is cooked to perfection. He’ll leave as a confident master of the barbecue! thegrandyork.co.uk

Father’s Day Fun at Belsay Hall

Gather the gang and head to Belsay Hall, near Morpeth, this Father’s Day. Go here for a weekend of fun in the great outdoors. Get up close and personal with creatures small and large in an animal handling workshop, explore the local wildlife and enjoy live entertainment from The Silly History Boys, who will be telling tales of famous dads and their children. This is a great one for dads with little ones. english-heritage.org.uk

Father’s Day Classic Car & Motor Show

If he’s a bit of a petrol-head, spend Father’s Day at Castle Howard’s Classic Car & Motor Show, home to over 500 vintage cars and motorcycles. He’ll be inspired by some mighty fine motors, plus enjoy vehicle judging and awards, live commentary, music and entertainment, trade stalls, food and drinks. A great day for the whole family. castlehoward.co.uk

SkyBet Sunday Series, Thirsk Racecourse

A new race day fixture is coming to Thirsk Racecourse this Father’s Day and it promises to be a thrilling afternoon of live racing, plus live music, food, drink and more. Gates open at 12pm with the first race at 3.30pm. Pop this Premier Raceday in the diary and make this a Father’s Day to remember. thirskracecourse.net

A Round of Golf

If you have a golf-mad dad, treat him to a round of the beautiful game. The North East is home to some of the finest golf clubs in the country, including Ramside Hall, Close House, Matfen Hall, Rockliffe Hall and many others. With an abundance of package deals and Father’s Day offers up for grabs at a selection of courses around the region, it’s a no brainer.

EXTRA TIME

with Pete Graves

Our Luxe sports columnist and Sky Sports presenter, Pete Graves, guides us through his busy sporting calendar, from Cheltenham and Premier League heydays with Newcastle United, to the build up to the Euros. All of that, plus family Center Parcs getaways and charity golf trips

LIVING LUXE >>

We enjoyed a week at Center Parcs, Whinfell Forest, in April, while the kids were off for the Easter holidays. We always go at Easter and we always go at Christmas - we love it there, there’s so much for the kids to do. It was my birthday while we were there, which was nice.

We’ve got a (child-free!) weekend away at Seaham that Steph got me for my birthday, so we’re really looking forward to that. It’s a beautiful place right on the doorstep!

WORKING LIFE >>

It’s been busy. We had Cheltenham at the back end of March, which is always a great event to work on. I go every single year for at least one day, but this time I hosted a Gold Cup Lunch in London. The festival was on the big screen, there was Irish music, the Guinness was flowing - there were tons of business people from London - it was a brilliant event and a really great atmosphere. I was there with Phil Tufnell, former England cricket international, and David James, ex England goalkeeper. We did a little Q&A - it was lots of fun.

I’ve still been doing Good Morning Sports Fans on Sky Sports, which always keeps me busy - and I’ve hosted a number of sporting events in recent months.

In June I’m hosting The Sir Bobby Robson Celebrity Golf Classic tournament in Vila Sol in Vilamoura. The event is run by Bobby Robson’s family and they raise money for Ascensão, a homeless children’s charity based in Faro, Portugal. Loads of ex players and famous footballing faces go out there and support the cause, which is always good to see.

Following that, the Euros will be underway. It’s always brilliant when there’s a summer tournament. Busy in terms of work, but it’s fantastic to see everyone out and about watching the games and showing their support to our national side. There will be lots of screenings across the North East.

THE WORLD OF SPORTS >>

At our time of speaking, we’re into the last five weeks of the Premier League season. We’re really at the business end now, and for Newcastle it’s a case of trying to get themselves into the top seven or eight so they can qualify for European football next season. They had a great result against West Ham, bringing it back to beat them 4-3. It was a really topsy-turvy game - one of the best games I’ve seen at St. James’ Park in a long time. Me and my son went to the Everton game, where we came away with a point. As long as they can continue picking up points from now until the end of the season, they should qualify for Europe; and considering all of the injuries, that would be a great achievement.

Our 4-0 victory to Tottenham was one to remember - in terms of the result - but also because it was a historic moment for our section of fans who have deafness and hearing loss. For this fixture, RNID (the national charity supporting people who are deaf, have hearing loss or tinnitus) replaced the SELA sponsorship on the player’s shirts and advertising boards. For the first time, fans (and the game’s matchday mascots) with hearing loss had access to cutting edge ‘Haptic Shirts’ that literally transform the atmosphere of the stadium into real-time touch sensation so the supporter can physically feel the atmosphere. I was at the game and spent time with people from RNID. I spoke to some of the deaf supporters that experienced the technology and they all said it was the best day of their lives. After one of the goals, Dan Burn did a sign language celebration to the crowd, which was amazing to see. It really is groundbreaking technology that is likely to be adopted by numerous clubs across the world, but it was wonderful to see it make its debut here at St. James’ Park.

I’ll be at St. James’ Park on 29 April, hosting a Q&A session with Gareth Southgate ahead of England’s fixture against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Monday 3 June. It’s one of their final games ahead of Euro 2024, and the first time the national side have played at St. James’ in a long time. Last time they played in Newcastle was around 2002 - I remember Beckham playing - so it has been a while. It’s wonderful for the city and for football fans up here in the North East. So I’m really excited to be a part of that. The stadium will be packed to the rafters.

Ask Pete >>

Q: How do the summer months look for a sports reporter?

A: “That’s a great question. Although some sports wind down in the summer months, there are other sports like cricket and tennis that really ramp up. And when there’s a summer tournament like the Euros, there’s certainly plenty going on to keep us busy. And to be honest, for me, in terms of football, it’s always busy because I’m so involved with the transfer window, which really kicks in in the summer. After a quiet January, it’s expected to be a busy summer. Sky have just launched Sky Tennis, so we’ll be doing a lot more tennis coverage this year. So, although there’s no Premier League fixtures to focus on, there’s still plenty going on at Sky Sports News.”

Got a question you’d like to ask Pete for the next issue? Send us a DM @luxe_mag!

Charlotte Graham

luxe:looks

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!

Network NotWork Event, Wynyard Park

North East Ladies Day (NELD) Spring Lunch, Wynyard Hall

PoWwow Networking Event, Rockliffe Hall

Laura Carruthers, Lesley Parry

Shonette Bason, Jen Jarvie, Tony Dobbins

Catherine Turner, Kevin Harking, Jo Hand

Jo Hand, Alison Barnett

Daniel Peacock, Jen Jarvie

Alison Barrett, Michael Gibbon, Christina Anderson, Nicola McNeil

Ingrid Brough-Williams, Daniel Peacock, Graham Hewitt

Christina Anderson, Catherine Turner

Shonette Bason, Jay Savage

Carol Heslehurst, Jessica Thompson, Joanne Lowes Leanne McGlade, Amy MacGregor, Charlotte Sherris, Ashley Smith

Leanne McGlade, Helen Woodgate, Ashley Smith

Michelle Burnett, Judy Flynn

Victoria Bolland, Alice I’Anson Widdows

Susan Cosby

Victoria Bolland, Karen Monkman, Fiona Turner, Jayne Roper, Barbara Carr

Hollie Ball

Marcia Atkinson, Nicky Jolly, Sophie McKenna, Claire Preston

Jenna Herlingshaw

Stacey Park

Peter Gibson

Hollie Ball, Marcia Atkinson, Sunny Chatha

Claire Preston

Rosemary Hicks Tracey Stevens

Willow Burn Hospice Diamonds and Pearls Ball, Beamish Hall

Graham Wylie Foundation Rock and Raise with Ella Henderson, Wylam Brewery

Neil Killeen, Clare Killeen, Phil Shield, Lesley Shield, Vicki Donnelly, Andrew Donnelly

Alfie Joey

Philip Pollard, Becki Pollard, Hannah Philips, David Elstob

Douglas Jordan

Benjamin Nicholson, David Nicholson, Alfie Joey

Craig Higgins, Sean Keeler, Kris Haigh Paul Jackson, David Barker

Team Willow Burn Staff and Volunteers

Angie Jenkison, Stephanie Hirst

Jade Hewitt, Billie Kay, Jenni Watson, Sonia Hernandez, David Hardy, Ryan Graham, Rebecca Graham, Elle Mavin, Stephanie Peacock, James Christie

Ella Henderson, Michael Lavery

Ella Henderson, Sir Graham Wylie

Rebecca Patton, Lorraine Crosby, Angela Newbrook, Steph Kay

Ebenezer Koya, Kay Greyson

Katie Grace

Newcastle Cathedral Gala Dinner

Emma Mckenzie, Sophia Gholkar

Charlotte Fielding, Angela Willerton, Emma Rumsby, Katie Henderson, Vicky Dowdall, Angie Jenkison

Credit: Barry Pells Photography, barrypellsphotography.co.uk

Credit: Neil Ferry, neilferryphoto.com

John Marshall, Nitin Shukla

Jane Pearson, Gavin Black, Lynne Black

Michael Hodson, Caroline Hodson, Rev Canon David Glover, Emma Glover

Chris Peason, Andrew Needham, Emily Wood, Gurpreet Jagpal

Judith Sadler, Vicky Cuthbertson, Simon Elliot

The Very Revd Lee Batson, Ranju Shukla, Hari Shukla

Sandra Manson, Louisa Sloan, Marie Kiddell, Erin Peart, Michelle Percy, Jen Hartley

Danielle Squires, Claire Hattam, Sally Squires, Adam Squires

Perfect slice >> Who doesn’t love an alfresco pizza party? Photograph by: kgphotography.co.uk

From first steps, to forever homes