Luxe may jun 2013

£5.00 luxe magazine

ISSUE 22 MAY/JUN13

£5

WHERE SOLD

DAME MARGARET BARBOUR. A cultural summer. L AYBOURNE MASTERCL ASS. Flir ti n g wi th Ga ts by. L IT TL E LUX E. Po p -up di ni ng. INS PIRED INTERIORS. Be a c h re tre a t. F O OTB AL L &FOOD . Art beat s. PART Y PEO PL E. Luxe laps.

C OO L H OT E L S. Bi g n ames . LUX E.

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28/05/2013 11:46

Newcastle’s open late so shop ’til 8pm.

Shop late ’til 8pm Mon – Fri and 7pm Sat Park free after 5pm Mon – Sat in the Council multi-storey car parks For further information on participating shops and car parks visit:

getintonewcastle.co.uk

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WELCOME

contents 4>> Castle keeper ISSUE 22 MAY/JUN13

10>> Do This So many summer goings-on

16>> Surreal stories

Are you taking to the outdoors? Resurrecting the barbecue for a pulled pork moment? I am shamefacedly attacking a brown and bald bit of lawn that is the result of my laziness in not putting the garden furniture away over winter. Not big, not clever, and now not remotely green either.

I was reminded of this reading our gardening man Will talking about how the British way of outdoor eating so often is a haphazard, spontaneous affair – see the sun and run for the rusty barbecue, cobweb-covered chairs and warm beers.

Maybe the answer is staying indoors for a pop-up supper – we’ve been exploring some very cool ones. DIY restaurants in anything from a container crate to a cheese factory. There are some very inventive and inspiring folk out there doing wonders with an ox tongue!

We have some beach-house lust too, having seen the glorious ‘after’ pics of a property renovation in Runswick Bay by Karen Stephenson. I defy you not to head for the Farrow and Ball paint chart and scour the property sites after reading that one.

We also get up close with Dame Margaret Barbour. Pretty much regional royalty, she remains at the helm of a business which keeps us cosy, quilted and countrified as our wax jackets puff with Northern pride.

Rowena Hackwood’s luxe life

Tim Walker’s bold images

20>> Weather-proof Dame Margaret at the Barbour helm

25>> Food glorious food Bite into pages of food pleasure

27>> Eating Out The Vallum Farm experience

28>> Pop-up pleasure Supper club supremo Sarah Hill is queen of Cuban and Creole when it comes to pop-up dining at her home in Saltburn.

Her luxe things in life include family time with husband and daughter - outdoorsy or a snuggly movie; her iPad for researching new recipes and digging out tools to work on her house.

Destination dining with a twist

32>> Terry’s perfect pate Masterclass for the perfect picnic

36>> Steven Taylor cooks Heat is on for soccer boy

42>> Flirting with Gatsby Fab fashion for dress-up days

50>> Fashion for the guys Pastels and PJs for best-dressed boys

58>> Golden moments Shimmering in the Bulgari spa

And a reminder luxe people - sign up for Luxe Loves the Weekend to get a dose of luxe every Thursday! See p97 to win a fab country break when you sign up.

62>> Home thoughts Characterful interiors for cool homes

66>> Bay watching

Kathryn

An achingly lovely home by the sea

82>> Tourist in your own town

kathryn@room501.co.uk www.luxe-magazine.co.uk Twitter @TheLuxeMagazine

Cheeky awaydays close to home

85>> Little Luxe Ian Watson is behind the biggest party on Newcastle’s social scene - Fashion Match, a huge fund-raiser.

His luxe things in life include throwing a great party - as you might expect. Also, time out at his home in Marbella and shopping for a fabulous new watch.

THE 501 TEAM Who’d do the cooking at a pop-up restaurant in your home?

With Nina Robinson, our pint-sized shopping and culture diva.

86>> Tee Off Tips for the tee. Places to play and kit to buy.

88>> Va Va Vroom Luxe laps. Test drives of nice motors and insightful words from petrolheads.

92>> Social life Party people - spot your smiles

98>> Parting shot

Christopher March managing director chris@room501.co.uk Tom Kerridge - a man with a belly that big will deliver a big portion Bryan Hoare sales and marketing director bryan@room501.co.uk Ray Mears - wouldn’t need to do the shopping then EDITORIAL Kathryn Armstrong editor kathryn@room501.co.uk Keith Floyd with Nigel Slater as sober back-up Fiona McLain fashion assistant Jamie Oliver, think it’d be a bit of a party DESIGN David Stubbs davids@room501.co.uk Gordon Ramsay, knives, foul-mouth and everything Sarah MacNeil sarah@room501.co.uk Jamie Oliver as long as he didn’t bring the kids PHOTOGRAPHY Kevin Gibson info@kgphotography.co.uk Heston, just to see what oddness he would create Nicky Rogerson nicky@nrphotography.co.uk Mary Berry - I’m a sucker for those cakes SALES Lisa Anderson senior sales executive lisa@room501.co.uk Jean-Christophe Novelli - kitchen and beyond

For advertising call the sales team on 0191 426 6300.

Rowena Hackwood runs the beautiful Auckland Castle which has just been awarded heritage funding.

Her luxe things in life include: Skiing trips - as many as she can fit in. Getting her nails done whilst out shopping - and a Viviene Westwood little black dress.

room501 Ltd, Spectrum 6, Spectrum Business Park, Seaham, SR7 7TT www.room501.co.uk room501 was formed from a partnership of directors who, combined, have many years of experience in contract publishing, print, marketing, sales and advertising and distribution. We are a passionate, dedicated company that strives to help you to meet your overall business needs and requirements. All contents copyright ©2013 room501 Ltd. All rights reserved. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, no responsibility can be accepted for inaccuracies, howsoever caused. No liability can be accepted for illustrations, photographs, artwork or advertising materials while in transmission or with the publisher or their agents. All information is correct at time of going to print, May 2013.

Debi Coldwell senior sales executive debi@room501.co.uk Steven Taylor could cook a curry for me any time luxe is published bi-monthly by room501 Ltd.

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MAY/JUN13

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LUXE LIFE

ROWENA HACKWOOD Rowena Hackwood runs Auckland Castle in Bishop Auckland with the job of bringing the beautiful palace and its park and gardens to the public. The project will be instrumental in turning around the fortunes of this proud town LUXE PEOPLE >> I’m not from the North-east but feel that I have been taken to heart by the people that I have met through the Auckland Castle project.

LUXE PLACES >> For a weekend > On the side of the hockey pitch watching my twins play. I stay away with work for much of the week, so the weekend is all about reconnecting with my family.

A long holiday > My husband and I are planning on retiring whilst we’re still young enough to enjoy it, and sailing round the world as a couple.

A treat > I love to ski and hope to get away for a ski weekend at some point. A luxury I know, but you did ask!

LUXE RELAX >> Best food > I love a risotto – sometimes the simple things in life are the best.

Best wine > I used to live in France just where Burgundy joins Champagne. As a result I have a soft spot for Aloxe Corton, a Burgundian red, and Perrier Jouet Belle Epoque.

I’m afraid, as my husband points out, I’m not a cheap date.

Favourite restaurant > I’m lucky enough to enjoy private

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dining at Auckland Castle on a regular basis – and, if I do say so myself, I can’t recommend it highly enough.

Downtime means > A game of netball, dog walking or a meal with the family around the kitchen table.

Best telly > Either the West Wing box set, or Got to Dance – I can do highbrow and trashy in the same breath.

Best book > I Don’t Know How She Does It by Allison Pearson – all working mums should read the book (not watch the film) which I think about every time I kiss one of my sleeping boys when I got home too late to say goodnight.

Best sounds > The laughter of children.

LUXE SHOP >> Best shopping city > York, favourite shops close together.

Favourite shop > My ambition is to attract some fab independent retailers to Bishop Auckland to support our project to regenerate the town. If you’re listening, chief executives, I’d happily spend my salary at Joules, Crew or White Stuff...

Luxe retail treat > Getting my nails done whilst I’m out shopping. I don’t usually stop for things like this, but if I can stop for long enough this is a great luxury!

Best buy > Abercrombie hoodies on eBay for the kids –

bargain, and they never knew they were second hand (oops they do now!)

LUXE PARTY >> A memorable night out > I organise charity balls in aid of my local Community First Responder scheme and, if I do say so myself, they’re fantastic!

Perfect party > We have so many parties we bought a large marquee for the back garden last year. I love lots of generations getting together having fun.

Best dress > I have a little black dress by Vivienne Westwood which I love and which hides a multitude of sins.

Dinner date > We belong to the 23 Club, a group of friends that meet on the 23rd of each month for ‘delightful dinner and convivial conversation’. Great fun.

YOUR LUXE THING IN LIFE >> Family is incredibly important to me and I try to savour every moment we spend together. I’m also extremely passionate about making the Auckland Castle project a huge success - ensuring this North-east treasure is positioned as a major heritage site and visitor destination regionally, nationally and internationally and making sure the people of Bishop Auckland are part of this exciting journey!

MAY/JUN13

2013 SUM M E R COL L E C T I ON S AVAI L A B L E NOW FROM Menswear: Acorn Rd, Jesmond, Newcastle. T: 0191 281 7855 (1)

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Finkle St, Kendal, Cumbria. T: 01539 723 874 (1) WWW.JULESB.CO.UK

LUXE LOVES

LUXE LOVES Sewing bees If you’ve been hooked by the current mania for all things knitted, embroidered and hand-crafted you will love Kettle of Fish designs.

Karen Lydiat is the talent behind the Northeast business and makes things like this sweet vintage-inspired brooch, ÂŁ24. Find them on www.etsy.com or some of her items are on sale in the gift shop at Preston Hall in Eaglescliffe.

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MAY/JUN13

Can we tempt you?

Offering you the most tantalising and seductive range of watch and jewellery collections in the North East!

Jewellery collections include: B&N, Canadian Ice, Chamilia, Emporio Armani, Guicci, Hot Diamonds, Links of London, My iMenso, Nomination, Pandora, Swarovski, Thomas Sabo, Tresor Paris, Unique

Luxury watch collections include: Breitling, Cartier, Gucci, Longines, Omega, Oris, Pre-owned Rolex, Rado, Raymond Weil

Watch collections include: Accurist, Armani Exchange, Bering, Boss Black, Boss Orange, Bulova, Bulova Accutron, Casio, Certina, Citizen, DKNY, Diesel, Festina, French Collection, Gc, Glamrock, Guess, Karen Millen, Michael Kors, Radley, Rotary, Scuderia Ferrari, Seiko, Skagen, Swiss Military, TW Steel, Tendence, Timberland, Toy, Vivienne Westwood

INTEREST FREE CREDIT available online and in store T&C’S APPLY

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LUXE LIFE

Beth Tweddle

Olympic bronze medalist and ice champion Beth Tweddle appears at Newcastle Metro Radio Arena later this month in the Celebrities on Ice showcase. As Britain’s greatest ever-female gymnast, Beth’s impressive achievements include being an Olympic Bronze Medalist, a triple World Champion, a sixtime European Champion, a Commonwealth Champion and seven-times consecutive National Champion. The star gymnast shared her favourite things….

Luxe people >> My family and friends. I spend so much time away from home that it really makes you appreciate these people in your life.

Luxe places >> For a weekend > A spa weekend with friends so I can chill out during the day and then find some nightlife in the evening and head out.

A long holiday > Orlando, Florida - you can get a mixture of stuff. You can go to all the theme parks for the adventure but then you can also go down the road and get away from it all at the beach and relax. A lot of my friends live out there so it’s great to be able to catch up with them. There is also the bonus of the hot weather so you can pick up a nice tan.

Luxe relax >> Best food > A traditional Sunday lunch. It is even better if it is home cooked by my mum.

Best wine > I'm not a wine drinker.

Favourite restaurant > Chaophraya In Liverpool. It is close to home, does great Thai food and a brilliant place to go for any occasion and with any group of people.

Perfect weekend > A mixture of adventure and relaxing. I would love to stay at a spa hotel with friends close to a theme park so I can have the best of both worlds.

Downtime means > Time spent with those you love and care about.

Best telly > Crime investigation programmes such as CSI. Best theatre > Mamma Mia, I have already seen it three times but would definitely go back and watch it again.

Best book > PS I Love You. I have read it quite a few times and seen the film but the book is definitely better.

Best sounds > Birds tweeting in the morning.

Luxe shop >> Best shopping city > Glasgow. I used to compete there every December and I always did my Christmas shopping there but just love the feel of shopping in that city.

Favourite shop > Ted Baker - I love their style of clothes and the quality. I can always guarantee that the clothes will fit really well.

Luxe retail treat > A visit to Ted Baker!

Best buy > Beige Black Sand shoes. I bought them for the races in 2012 and have worn them so much since. They totally finish off an outfit and everyone always comments on them.

Luxe party >> A memorable night out > I had a party after I won the worlds in 2010. All my friends from all over the country came and it was nice to have everyone around to celebrate with, especially as all my friends have been there to support me throughout my gymnastics career.

Perfect party > A house party with all my friends around. No hassle of having to get home and once your feet get sore wearing heels you can just take them off.

Best dress > A dress I recently wore to the Empire film awards made by Mark Melia. I loved it.

Favourite item > My Ugg boots. They are so comfy especially after a long day’s training or being in my skates all day.

Your luxe thing in life >> Being on Celebrities on Ice skating tour with my Dancing on Ice partner Daniel.

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MAY/JUN13

DO THIS

ART! WITH GODFREY WORSDALE

Stay in >> go out >> enjoy Your sofa-side view of cultural and seasonal happenings in the region by Katherine Weir Showcasing her fifth studio album, Girl On Fire, Alicia Keys hits British shores in May with a one-night show at Metro Radio Arena. The fourteen-time Grammy Award winning singer, songwriter and producer says, “I’m so excited to be touring again and it’s great to be back in the UK! I love it here and I’m looking forward to performing and feeling the energy of the crowd – there’s nothing like it.”

Book on 0844 493 6666

19 MAY

20 Fabrice Hyber, Raw Materials (installation view) Palais de Tokyo, Paris, 2012 For those not fortunate to have seen Fabrice Hyber’s magnificent show at the Palais de Tokyo in Paris over the winter, fear not, as the exhibition is currently being hosted here at BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art in Gateshead.

Hyber was born in Luçon, France in 1961 and is regarded as one of the most inventive and influential French artists of his generation. Working across painting, drawing, sculpture and installation, as a part of a single interconnected practice, his work compels the viewers to locate themselves intellectually and physically at the centre of his work. BALTIC presents the artist’s first large-scale solo exhibition in the UK bringing together more than thirty works spanning the last twenty-five years.

Since the 1980s Hyber has created works using an extraordinary array of materials from the most unexpected sources. He is perhaps best known for his Prototypes d’Objets en Fonctionnement (Prototypes of Working Objects). Begun in the 1990s, they playfully adapt the function of everyday objects. Visitors to Hyber’s exhibitions are invited to experience these works through direct interaction. Hyber explains that ‘a work of art is a beginning of a sentence that is not completed’ without the audience.

Hyber’s work is characterised by experiment and often playful exploration. At BALTIC the artist composes a new universe though his drawings and prototypes - his ‘raw materials’. Exploring the intricate and different processes of transforming materials, it is constructed as a landscape. Organised around a number of modules, pools and sheds containing raw materials including foodstuffs, money and natural elements, which are all subject to transformation.

Visitors are invited to this ‘mental spa’ to interact with the works directly, opening huts such as a wind house to liberate the elements within. When activated, the exhibition is designed as a living organism that takes over, altering traditional behavioural responses within a gallery environment.

Fabrice Hyber’s Raw Materials in on show at BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art until 30 June. Admission FREE. Godfrey Worsdale is Director, BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art

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MAY

Northern Chords brings acclaimed young musicians from around the globe to the North-east to offer a refreshing take on classical music.

Founded by 24-year-old Gateshead-born musician Jonathan Bloxham, this year’s festival will present the very best young classical talent from as far afield as Canada, Estonia, Holland, Belarus, Israel and Norway.

The 2013 line-up includes stars such as BBC Radio 3 New Generation Artist Ben Johnson and Royal Overseas League winners The Busch Ensemble, as well as BBC Young Musician of the Year winner - clarinetist Mark Simpson.

Performers will also be entertaining visitors to The Sage Gateshead with a series of free lunchtime performances on the main concourse over the course of the week.

Highlights will include Benjamin Britten’s Saint Nicholas, to be performed at St. Nicholas’ Cathedral Newcastle on May 21.

For more information about the festival or to book tickets, visit: www.northernchords.com or call The Sage Gateshead Box Office on 0191 443 4661.

Twitter: @ncfestival Facebook: Northern Chords

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MAY

Middlesbrough Town Hall’s classical season ends in great style, with Moscow State Orchestra conducted by Pavel Kogan, with outstanding cellist Nina Kotova as special guest.

The programme features two works by Khachaturian, plus Shostakovich’s Cello Concerto No.1, and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No.6. www.middlesbroughtownhallonline.co.uk or 01642 729 729 / 01642 81 51 81.

25 MAY Transporting visitors back to the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods, Age of the Dinosaur, a Natural History Museum exhibition, aims to give visitors a glimpse of life as it was 65 million years ago. Featuring full-scale animatronics and stunning film footage, Age of the Dinosaur paints an evocative picture and tells a compelling scientific story of a vital period in Earth’s history. Visitors can also check out the Dino Show, a live theatre show exploring some of the facts we know about these fascinating creatures.

Science Explainers will be showing off some rather impressive fossils and in the planetarium, there’s a range of shows to enjoy. Plus there’ll be an exciting new 4D Motion Ride, Timechasers, to add extra thrills and surprises!

Life Centre, Newcastle www.life.org.uk

MAY

Movie-meets-music nostalgia at Arc Stockton. Terri Hooley is a radical, rebel and music-lover in 1970s Belfast when the bloody conflict known as the Troubles shuts down his city. As all his friends take sides and take up arms, Terri opens a record shop on the most bombed half-mile in Europe and calls it Good Vibrations.

Through it he discovers a compelling voice of resistance in the city’s nascent underground punk scenes. Galvanising the young musicians into action, he becomes the unlikely leader of a motley band of kids and punks who join him in his mission to create a new community, an alternative Ulster, to bring his city back to life. www.arconline.co.uk

MAY/JUN13

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DO THIS

25 MAY MAY

Dance City, Newcastle presents Ours Was the Fen Country, with Dan Canham of Still House in an exhilarating and poetic look at the inevitability of change using the voices of those who still know the old words. www.dancecity.co.uk

Who says museums have to be inside?

No other attraction in the country can lay claim to being 72 miles long and spanning the width of the North of England. Visitors to Hadrian’s Wall can experience the epic history of this 2,000-year-old ancient monument, see stunning views from the forts and find out about life in Roman Britain. English Heritage is hosting open-air re-enactment events, the highlight of which will be a Roman Festival, from 25 May - 2 June. www.englishheritage.org.uk

MAY

Midge Ure has shape-shifted his way through the UK music scene for over 35 years. From prototype boy band with Slik, through electronic pioneer with Visage, rock guitarist with Thin Lizzy, chart topper with Ultravox and his solo career, to charity fund-raiser with Band Aid. Ure has adapted to the ebb and flow of his career performing with large bands, three-piece power trios, and his solo acoustic shows in which he sticks to his mantra that a good song can be stripped down to its basics and still stand up to close inspection.

He’s at Arc, Stockton in a show that will get you singing along to songs such as If I Was, and Ultravox songs from Vienna up to new songs from the latest Ultravox album Brilliant. www.arconline.co.uk

25TH MAY–15TH SEPTEMBER

28 MAY-8 JUNE Pad down to Sunderland Empire for a chance to see Andrew Lloyd–Webber’s extraordinary record-breaking musical, CATS. As one of the longest-running shows in West End and Broadway history, CATS has enthralled audiences in over 300 cities around the world.

With a wonderful blend of fantasy, drama and romance, join the Jellicle Cats at the Jellicle Ball this summer.

Box Office 0844 871 3022 or www.atgtickets.com/sunderland

Durham School Independent Day & Boarding . Girls and Boys Age 3-18 . Founded 1414

All-Steinway Accredited School

Woodhorn Museum will be home to a fascinating collection of printer’s proofs from William Davison’s Printing Shop in Alnwick. The exhibition provides a glimpse into the social and economic life of a provincial town in the first part of the nineteenth century, with the main collection housed in the archive at Woodhorn. A must-see collection for history buffs and design fans alike as the proofs also vividly illustrate the development of more decorative advertising techniques. www.experiencewoodhorn.com

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Arrange a Visit or Taster Day at a time to suit you

Reg. Charity No. 1023407

NEXT OPEN DAY Saturday 19 October 2013

MAY/JUN13

Please contact our Registrar, Mrs Eileen Cathrae e.cathrae@durhamschool.co.uk Tel: 0191 386 4783 www.durhamschool.co.uk @dunelmia

Durham School (1414 - present)

M I D S E A S O N E V E N T: 1 1 T H M AY - 1 8 T H J U N E 63 - 65 HIGH STREET | GOSFORTH NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE NE3 4AA | TEL: 0191 285 3671 www.sarahbowenlighting.co.uk

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DO THIS

WEALTH MANAGEMENT WITH RICHARD PIKE

FAMILY FEUDS & LEGAL COSTS Despite being worth millions of pounds, it is thought that the late actor Sir Peter Ustinov’s estate may be almost entirely swallowed up by legal costs, following a nine year family feud The recent dispute about the estate of the late Sir Peter Ustinov – the actor, director and former Chancellor of Durham University, who passed away in 2004 aged 82, has highlighted the importance of regularly reviewing your will and inheritance arrangements Despite being worth millions of pounds, it is thought that Sir Peter’s estate may be almost entirely swallowed up by the legal costs incurred in an ongoing nine year family feud which has involved court battles in both the English courts and in Switzerland.

The root of the arguments seem to be the fact that Sir Peter last changed his will in 1970, some 34 years before his death whilst in the second of his three marriages. The second marriage ended in divorce and he remarried in June 1972. The effect of the remarriage was to revoke the 1970 will and the courts ruled that Sir Peter died ‘intestate’ as a result.

It is surprising that Sir Peter appears not to have properly updated his inheritance arrangements since then, particularly given his relatively complex family situation and the fact that he had accumulated significant wealth held across multiple jurisdictions, including in some financial arrangements in Switzerland. The result has been a nine year legal battle with proceedings brought in the High Court in London and the Swiss Courts and the likelihood of there being very little left in Sir Peter’s estate by the end of it all.

The case reminds us why regularly reviewing your will and inheritance arrangements is a very important part of wealth management, particularly when you have had changes in your family circumstances (such as a remarriage or family difficulties), or where you have assets held away from your estate in the form of trusts.

Sadly, such disputes can be difficult to avoid even when well thought out and properly documented arrangements are put in place. This is especially the case where there are family members who feel disgruntled at being cut out of a will. However, good advice from experienced private wealth advisers goes a long way towards minimising what could be lost as a result of an inheritance dispute, and would hopefully avoid a ‘nightmare’ scenario like that of Sir Peter’s, where much if not all of the estate was lost due to the cost of litigation.

Those who do review their inheritance arrangements need to be equally wary of the dangers inherent in making changes, especially if they do so later in life. If not properly considered and managed, changing your will in later life could actually contribute to, rather than avoid, the possibility of an inheritance dispute.

Inheritance disputes have increased rapidly for the last five years suggesting that the public is becoming more aware of the ways in which wills can be challenged. Increasingly complex family situations also have a part to play, as do the cases reported in the press, many of which seem to produce somewhat surprising results.

Revisiting your inheritance arrangements regularly should therefore be treated as an important part of managing your wealth and, bearing in mind the potential pitfalls in making any changes to those arrangements, it is worth seeking advice from experienced practitioners to minimise the potential for dispute.

Richard Pike, Solicitor Bond Dickinson, formed through the merger between Dickinson Dees and Bond Pearce on 1 May. T: 0844 984 1500 W: www.bonddickinson.com

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TEA-TIME TREATS Preston Park Museum and Grounds at Eaglescliffe, Stockton-on-Tees has reopened to the public after a £7million refurbishment.

The River Tees runs through the popular attraction which boasts a Grade II listed 19th Century Hall, nestled in lush parkland. The refurbished attraction will see the hall become the centrepiece of the site with themed galleries, exploiting the grandeur of the building.

Brand new learning facilities, a fully-fitted craft resource and a dedicated demonstration kitchen are also now in place so visitors can fully explore the whole Preston Park experience.

The museum’s much-loved Victorian Street has been improved, providing visitors with the opportunity to step back in time to 1895 and discover a world of traditional shops and crafts, including a printers, drapers, grocers – even a Victorian tea room for a decadent treat.

Within the grounds the site offers an exciting new adventure play facility, improved pathways to accommodate river views, and impressive restoration of the original Victorian kitchen garden and orchard. With a full programme of events planned from artisan workshops to outdoor theatre there will be something on offer to suit every taste.

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JUNE

Silent comedy sensation The Boy With Tape On His Face plays Middlesbrough Town Hall Crypt.

Funny, magical, innovative, spectacular and inspiring, The Boy has quickly won the hearts and minds of the public and critics alike in a whirlwind two years. This is stand-up with no talking, drama with no acting, and punchlines with no words. 2012 saw him sell out his entire 750-capacity per night month-long run at the Edinburgh Festival, winning the Fosters Comedy award along the way. www.middlesbroughtownhallonline.co.uk or 01642 729 729 / 01642 81 51 81.

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JUNE

Fitness and food - enjoy a Ladies’ Lunch in The Orangery at Rockliffe Hall with nutritional expert, Amanda Beecroft, who specialises in holistic approaches to health, diet and weight loss as well as intolerances and allergies. £19.50 including sparkling wine reception, 2-course lunch, tea/coffee and treats. www.rockliffehall.com

UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE Visit the Bowes Museum in Barnard Castle to see the remarkable Portrait of Olivia Porter, which was recently authenticated as a genuine Van Dyck on the BBC flagship arts programme The Culture Show. Now housed in the splendour of the museum’s newlyrefurbished painting galleries, you can see this beautiful work of art from the seventeenth century’s leading court painter in England. www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk

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JUNE

A Wondrous Place brings together theatre makers with a passion for the North of England who have created four brand new short stories. It’s about seeing this part of the world with fresh eyes and in surprising ways.

0191 230 5151 www.northernstage.co.uk/ whats-on/a-wondrous-place

MAY/JUN13

DO THIS

8 JUNE

ALL SUMMER Yorkshire Sculpture Park, the first of its kind in the UK and the biggest in Europe, will host the biggest UK exhibition to date by British-Nigerian artist Yinka Shonibare MBE. FABRIC-ATION features over 30 vibrant works including sculpture, film, photography, painting and collage. The exhibition is part of a series of events bidding to make Yorkshire the sculpture capital of Europe. www.ysp.co.uk

JUNE Willow sculptor Emma Stothard is a favourite of ours. She makes striking models of wildlife – from sprightly horses to gregarious geese. She’s moved on from willow to galvanised steel for a latest exhibition showing at National Trust’s Rievaulx Terrace near Helmsley throughout summer. Her 'Dancing Hares' stand proud and poised at 9-10 ft high. They are created from steel wire which is then galvanised. The sculptures have masses of personality and are cool and contemporary in their ancient setting.

Details of Emma’s work and exhibitions on www.emmastothard.com www.nationaltrust.org.uk/rievaulx-terrace

UNTIL JUNE Bowes Museum is the place to see Édouard Manet’s famed Portrait of Mademoiselle Claus, which is on show until June. A rare opportunity to see this painting, which was saved from export, in the North of England. www.bowesmuseum.org.uk

MAY/JUN13

ENDS 9 JUNE This is your last chance to see the stunning Dressing the Stars exhibition at Woodhorn Museum that celebrates British costume design with outfits from a selection of well-loved films. You can see costumes from The King’s Speech, Sense and Sensibility and Pirates of the Caribbean and be blown away by the exquisite detail and craftsmanship that goes into each garment. www.experiencewoodhorn.com

Not sure who had the bright idea to designate June 8 World Gin day but we like them.

A fixture in the discerning cocktail lover’s calendar, the new way to take your gin is as a cocktail poured from teapots into teacups. Try it at home with The ‘G ‘n’ Tea’ tea-set, transforming anytime into party-time in the comfort of your own home. The teapot, teacup and mug are decorated with the image of a vintage GIN decanter tag. The milk jug offers the perfect accompaniment with its TONIC tag. www.productofyourenvironment.co.uk

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7/9 JUNE

Geordie comedy legend Bobby Pattinson is taking to the stage at Newcastle’s City Hall with a stellar line-up of acts to raise cash for charity.

Joining him is fellow North-east comedian, musician and actor Brendan Healy, and sensational singer John Miles, who will perform top hits such as Music which reached number 3 in the UK charts in 1975.

Other acts confirmed include impressionist Kevin Connelly (from TV’s ‘Dead Ringers’), award-winning Irish dancers Clannan Gael and female barbershop group Scarlet Street.

All funds raised will go to the Variety Club Children’s Charity and North of England’s Children’s Cancer Research (NECCR).

Tickets for the City Hall gig can be booked on 0191 277 8030.

Metro Radio will be one of the stops on the first-ever We Will Rock You arena tour.

The rock theatrical written and directed by Ben Elton, has enjoyed unprecedented success in theatres around the world and will be entertaining packed-out arenas this summer. Starring former Coronation Street star Kevin Kennedy – Curly Watts – and X Factor finalist, Brenda Edwards, this hilarious futuristic comedy centres around over 24 of Queen’s biggest hit songs.

Book on 0844 493 6666

Artist impression of Wolfgang Weileder’s sailing dinghies on Nelly’s Moss Lake

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20 26 JUNE

One of rock’s legendary and defining bands, The Who, has announced a UK arena tour where they’ll perform their iconic 1973 double album Quadrophenia in its entirety, along with a selection of classics from the band. The new concert version is directed by founder and lead singer, Roger Daltrey and focuses on the original album replacing the narrative used in previous stage versions with powerful projected imagery.

Book on 0844 493 6666

JULY

Top TV comic Sean Lock has followed in the footsteps of fellow big-hitters Sarah Millican and Jason Manford by adding an extra date at Middlesbrough Town Hall. A brilliant team captain on fourteen series of Channel 4’s 8 Out of 10 Cats, the British Comedy Award winner is also loved by millions of TV fans thanks to storming gigs on Live at the Apollo and Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow. He rolls up with Purple Van Man – his first live tour for three years.

Box Office: 01642 729 729 or www.middlesbroughtownhallonline.co.uk

JUNE

Cragside is set to host a number of temporary artworks which will give a modern interpretation of the pioneering vision of Lord and Lady Armstrong.

Marking the 150th anniversary of Cragside, Building Dreams: Artworks will see three artworks installed at various locations around the Cragside estate.

Artworks take inspiration from Lord and Lady Armstrong and their pioneering dreams for the house and estate when they first moved here in 1863.

Wolfgang Weileder, professor in Contemporary Sculpture at Newcastle University, focuses on large-scale temporary site-specific architectural installations and sculptures in the urban environment. His work at Cragside will consist of three full-sized sailing dinghies on Nelly’s Moss Lake at the top of the estate. Images printed on the sails of these will represent electrical discharges which were published in Lord Armstrong’s 1897 Electric Movement in Air and Water.

Jo Coupe’s work will feature a live electrical experiment: running an electrical current through roses suspended in copper sulphate solution in five large tanks. Visitors are invited to observe the changes to the tanks over the course of the exhibition.

Rednile, an art collective based in Gateshead and Stoke on Trent, take a play-based approach which focuses on experimentation, research and collaboration. With this in mind, their art installation will feature over a thousand model cranes and trucks fixed to a framework to create a structure celebrating engineering.

For more information about Cragside please log onto www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cragside or telephone 01669 620333.

JUNE We urge everyone to make time to see The Unthanks’ Songs of the Shipyards trilogy, a beautiful and powerful audio visual work tracing the story of the shipyards in songs and film.

It forms part of the Festival of the North East in June with a diverse and exciting programme of region-wide arts and culture. www.nestivalne.com

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UNTIL NOVEMBER A new and exciting visual arts exhibition will be displayed in the trees and woodland throughout the Eden Valley from now until November. Cumbrian-based arts organisation Eden Arts has launched CANOPY, which starts with an impressive large-scale ‘Woollen Woods’ installation celebrating the wool craft industry and featuring knitted birds, felt bats and crochet dragonflies. www.edenarts.co.uk

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The SummerTyne Americana festival is back this summer with a sizzling line-up including The Mavericks, Heritage Blues Orchestra, Mud Morganfield, Patty Griffin, Matthew E White, Shelby Lynne and Willy Mason, with more acts to be confirmed.

Taking place on the south side of the River Tyne, in and around The Sage Gateshead, the festival runs over three days offering everything from classic country and blues to fiery tex-mex. www.thesagegateshead.org

MAY/JUN13

ADVERTORIAL

A New Leading School for Girls

Newcastle’s Central High and Church High Schools are merging to form the region’s newest leading girls’ school

In January this year Newcastle upon Tyne Church High School and Central Newcastle High School announced plans to join together to form Newcastle High School for Girls GDST, a new leading independent girls’ school in the North-east and one of the outstanding girls’ schools in the country.

The new school, based in Jesmond, will educate girls aged from three to 18, combining the best of Central High and Church High to create a vibrant learning community and offering a range of curricular and extra-curricular opportunities that will make it the leading choice for every girl and parent in the North-east.

With over 250 years of experience in girls’ education, the coming together of the two schools will create a unique opportunity to build on the significant heritage of academic excellence and pastoral care, and to echo the founding aims of both schools – to create the most radical, exciting and innovative school in the region.

Providing excellent education for girls will lie at the heart of the new school and all girls attending Newcastle High School for Girls will have the opportunities they deserve to grow as individuals, assume leadership roles, develop lasting friendships and take risks in an environment that caters for their needs.

The new school will provide the best of experience and facilities and, as a member of the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST), the UK’s leading network of independent girls’ schools with 24 schools and two academies in England and Wales, staff and girls will benefit from the support and advice of the expert staff at head office and of their peers in the other schools in the GDST network.

Newcastle High School for Girls will launch in September 2014 when Hilary French, current headmistress of Central High, will become head of the new school.

MAY/JUN13

Newcastle High School for Girls will give girls the very best start in life and imbue them with the confidence and self-belief to deal with whatever life might throw at them in university and beyond She said: “The chance to develop a school for girls incorporating all that we know about the way that girls learn, the spaces they need, what great teaching looks like for them and how the day can best be shaped for them is hugely exciting. Newcastle High School for Girls will give girls the very best start in life and imbue them with the confidence and self-belief to deal with whatever life might throw at them in university and beyond.”

Joy Gatenby, head of Church High, will stay on full-time as an executive advisor to the new school until July 2015. She added: “Both schools have a history and a heritage in the city and a long-standing commitment to bringing out the best in every individual girl in our care. We shall take the best of Central High and the best of Church High – academically and creatively – to make the very best school in the region.”

The two schools will operate in parallel for the next academic year, fully merging in September 2014.

Over the next 12 months the schools are coming together through shared events and planning for the future is advancing rapidly.

Already unveiled by the Duchess of Northumberland in March, are the junior school facilities at Chapman House, Sandyford Park in Newcastle. Chapman House will become the Junior School for Newcastle High School for Girls. It sits in five acres of grounds and has recently undergone a multi-million pound refurbishment by the Girls’ Day School Trust to create outstanding spaces for junior girls.

Angela Charlton, who will be the head of Junior School at Newcastle High School for Girls, said: “Chapman House fuses traditional values with creative and innovative learning. Making maximum use of indoor and outdoor spaces to deliver an incredible education for girls is at the heart of the

redevelopment programme.”

The Senior School for Newcastle High School for Girls will undergo an equally exciting transformation. The Girls’ Day School Trust has pledged to invest several million pounds in developing Church High’s superb site at Tankerville Terrace, Jesmond. The senior girls can expect to enjoy the finest facilities in the region. This, combined with the delivery of an outstanding curriculum and teaching, will establish Newcastle High School for Girls as one of the best in the country.

OPEN WEEK – Monday 17th to Friday 21st June If you would like to find out more about Newcastle High School for Girls or to enquire about a place in either school for this September, please come along to our Open Week.

Telephone admissions on 0191 201 6511 for more details and to make an appointment. www.newcastlehigh.gdst.net Building a new future for education

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SURREAL THING

Fashion’s fantasy flight Acclaimed photographer Tim Walker brings surrealism to fashion at an exhibition this month

His images have graced the fashion pages of Vogue and Vanity Fair with courageous twists and abstract turns.

Now, in an ambitious exhibition, the Bowes Museum will feature the work of top fashion photographer Tim Walker beyond the pages of the glossies for the first time.

His work will be shown in light boxes, which is a totally new departure for the leading fashion photographer – and many of the images included in the show feature locations in the North East.

Curated by Greville Worthington, the exhibition will explore Walker’s work beyond the pages of Vogue and Vanity Fair, showing influences from British Surrealism, and a unique Neo-Romantic take on a particularly English theme. Walker’s fascination with the make-believe world of fashion photography started early. As a 19-year-old intern at Vogue he established its Cecil Beaton Archive before studying art and photography at Exeter Art College. On graduation he worked briefly as a freelance photographic assistant in London before moving to New York as full-time assistant to Richard Avedon.

At 25 he shot his first Vogue fashion story. He was the recipient of the second ‘Isabella Blow Award for Fashion Creator’ at the British Fashion Awards (2008) and the following year he received an Infinity Award from the International Center of Photography, New York, for his fashion photography. He is also well known for his advertising campaigns for Mulberry, Hèrmes, Valentino and many others.

The improbability of Walker’s sets in the exhibition’s 26 photographs fringes on Surrealism; beds float in trees, a flying saucer glides alongside a fox hunt, and giant dolls crash through landscapes filled with foreboding, where nature frightens rather than soothes. The ambition and scale of his images is especially impressive as they are not digitally manipulated; every fantastical scene is created with props.

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Beds float in trees, a flying saucer glides alongside a fox hunt and giant dolls crash through landscapes filled with foreboding The use of light boxes adds a new quality of drenched colour to the images.

Greville Worthington, a former Turner Prize judge, says, “Viewers will be drawn in to meticulously crafted scenes, otherworldly landscapes which reveal Tim’s regard for British

painters such as Eric Ravilious and Paul Nash. His seductive images demand to be read as more than fashion.” www.timwalkerphotography.com www.bowesmuseum.org.uk

MAY/JUN13

LUXE LIFE

ADAM DYKE Adam Dyke is general manager at Wynyard Hall Hotel. The 34-year-old has worked alongside the likes of Raymond Blanc in a career which most recently saw him steer Yorebridge House Hotel to the title of ‘most romantic’ in the UK. He’s passionate about food and has been instrumental in organising the hall’s spring food festival, showcasing some of the country’s top chefs in a series of gourmet dinners. He’s also looking forward to hosting the Wynyard Hall street food festival at the end of June.

Adam lives in North Yorkshire and is dad to four girls, Holly, 12, Thea, eight, Hettie, five and Beatrix, five months.

Luxe people >> My wife Caroline – she continues to support me in everything I do. Aside from family, I admire the late Sir Bobby Robson for the way he carried himself through adversity.

Luxe places >> For a weekend > St Helier in Jersey. I love the beaches and The Club Spa & Hotel. The Michelin restaurant Bohemia is a favourite.

Long holiday > Center Parcs with the girls. I’ve been on safari in South Africa and would love to take the girls one day. The Ashes in Australia would be a treat too.

A treat > Anywhere for a night – I like the Wensleydale Heifer, lovely welcoming people. And Yorebridge House in Bainbridge.

LUXE RELAX >> Best food > My mother-in-law’s Sunday roast. Superb, She is a cook not a chef. She does the best Yorkshires and a great chunk of meat.

Best wine > White Burgundy – Mersault or Chablis.

Favourite restaurant > Bohemia, Jersey. The Balmoral, Edinburgh where I had the most memorable pigeon. I love a trip to Roots farm shop and cafe in North Yorkshire for their real farm breakfast – the service and produce is perfect.

Perfect weekend > If I am not at work then it is real family time – take the family somewhere like Studley Royal for the day with the dogs or Newby Hall. I have a season ticket for Newcastle so might spend Sunday at the game hoping for a win.

Downtime means > Well I usually have the kids jumping all over me, so there’s not much relaxation going on but I don’t mind that – I love taking Hettie to her ballet class.

MAY/JUN13

Best telly > Top Gear – typical bloke.

Best book > The Gruffalo, Going on a Bear Hunt!

Best sounds > I am loving The Foals at the moment.

Otherwise I listen to the radio – a bit of classical, Capital, Chris Evans.

Luxe shop >> Best shopping city > Leeds. I love Paul Smith, Ted Baker, Harvey Nichols.

Luxe retail treat > A tailor-made suit.

Best buy > a Citroen C4. The epitome of a family car – it did 100,000 miles before it just stopped then never went again. I have a Scirocco now.

Luxe party >> Memorable night out > Definitely going to Feyenoord to see

Newcastle play.

They won in injury time and we had a fab night – the night of my life!

Perfect party > Friends and family in the garden or East Harlsey Village Hall - a bouncy castle for the kids and a hog roast. The opposite of the day job!

Best dress > The aforementioned bespoke suit.

Dinner date; Definitely my wife.

Your luxe thing in life >> When I walk into Wynyard Hall, I still think, ‘Wow, this is where I work’.

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The price is based on a V40 D2 ES FUEL CONSUMPTION IN MPG (L/100km) Urban 70.6/4.0, Extra Urban 83.1/3.4, Combined 78.5/3.6, CO2 94 g/km. Based on personal contract hire. All rentals and excess mileage rates are inclusive of VAT and are subject to vehicle availability, credit approval, manufacturer’s price changes, volume related bonus and purchase through Volvo Car Leasing Supplier Network. The payment terms are 12 month(s) in advance £2,388, followed by 35 monthly payments commencing in month 2 payable by Direct Debit, with a mileage of 8,000 miles per annum. Vehicle returned must be in good condition and within agreed mileage, otherwise further charges will be incurred. Excess Mileage 10.44p per mile. In the event of cancellation of an order, you will be liable for such costs to be confirmed to you in writing. All other terms and conditions are as per the Master Hire Agreement or Customer Agreement between yourselves and Volvo Car Leasing. Prices correct at the time of going to print, are subject to change without notice and do not take into account any variation to government taxes or charges arising after date of publication. Subject to availability at participating dealers for vehicles registered by 30/6/2013 or while stocks last. Not available with other promotions. Volvo Car Leasing Contract Hire is Provided by Lex Autolease Ltd, trading as Volvo Car Leasing, incorporated and registered in England with company number 1090741 & registered office at 25 Gresham Street, London EC2V 7HN. Car shown for illustration purposes only.

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The price is based on a XC90 D5 ES FUEL CONSUMPTION IN MPG (L/100km) Urban 26.9/10.5, Extra Urban 41.5/6.8, Combined 34.4/8.2, CO2 215 g/km. Based on contract hire available to business and private users.

All rentals and excess mileage rates are exclusive of VAT and are subject to vehicle availability, credit approval, manufacturer’s price changes, volume related bonus and purchase through Volvo Car Leasing Supplier Network.

The payment terms are 12 month(s) in advance £3,588, followed by 35 monthly payments of £299 commencing in month 2 payable by Direct Debit, with a mileage of 10,000 miles per annum. Vehicle returned must be in good condition and within agreed mileage, otherwise further charges will be incurred. Excess Mileage 15.75p per mile. In the event of cancellation of an order, you will be liable for such costs to be confirmed to you in writing. All other terms and conditions are as per the Master Hire Agreement or Customer Agreement between yourselves and Volvo Car Leasing. Prices correct at the time of going to print, are subject to change without notice and do not take into account any variation to government taxes or charges arising after date of publication. Subject to availability at participating dealers for vehicles registered by 30/06/2013 or while stocks last. Not available with other promotions. Volvo Car Leasing Contract Hire is Provided by Lex Autolease Ltd, trading as Volvo Car Leasing, incorporated and registered in England with company number 1090741 & registered office at 25 Gresham Street, London EC2V 7HN. Car shown for illustration purposes only.

waXing lyriCal

heritage values Made in South Shields, Barbour is a global fashion success story with name-drop customers like the Queen, Alexa Chung and James Bond. This summer there will be a hint of Dior and Chanel too. At the helm is Dame Margaret Barbour, who speaks to Lisa Armstrong

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MAY/JUN13

waxing lyrical

here’s a lovely quote in one of our early catalogues, says Dame Margaret Barbour reading from the 1908 Barbour brochure in her sing–songy, slightly Alan Bennett–ish lilt: “‘Wherever men need to be protected, Barbours will do it for you.’ You see?” she says triumphantly, “we were never just an upper–class product.”

I have been in Dame Margaret’s beige and brown office barely ten minutes and the C word has already been uttered. Inevitable, really. Three royal warrants – from HM the Queen, HRH the Duke of Edinburgh and HRH the Prince of Wales – adorn one of the walls. Outside her window, a view of the fields of Tyne and Wear unfolds. This is a rural brand for hunters, shooters and fishers.

Except not quite. We may be surrounded by bucolic ruggedness, but we’re also on a small industrial estate in South Tyneside. And Barbour is as popular with the Hoxton Farmers (groovy east Londoners who began buying up original baggy Barbours in the Noughties to wear with their box–fresh trainers) as it is with the Duke of Edinburgh. More so, possibly, because the Duke once referred to the wondrous waxed, all–weather Barbours as “those smelly, sweaty, sticky old jackets”. Hoxton Farmers – and the many fashion editors who also adore the brand – would never permit themselves such lèse majesté. Also, they know that thanks to improved wax, Barbours are now neither sticky nor smelly.

That Barbour has successfully steered a tightrope between fashion and function, is almost entirely down to Dame Margaret who, truth be told, is not much of a sportswoman, although she does like walking her spaniel, Goldie. But wisely, she has always imported the expertise of sportier souls, such as the racing driver Jackie Stewart, the jockey Willie Carson, the eventer Captain Mark Phillips and Lord James Percy (who, according to Barbour’s website, is “one of the outstanding shots of his generation”) to maintain credible sporting credentials.

Simultaneously, there have been fashion collaborations with Anya Hindmarch, Sir Paul Smith and Alice Temperley. The next, out in July, is a capsule collection of tweed hunting jackets designed by Chanel muse and keen equestrian Amanda Harlech, which brings the spirit of Dior’s New Look to the shires (and, no doubt, Gosforth. Corbridge, Shoreditch and Cheshire).

These liaisons are tremendously valuable in terms of press coverage, although, as Dame Margaret points out, Dame Helen Mirren probably shifted more product when she appeared in The Queen wearing the Barbour Beaufort, than Alexa Chung has in her Barbour Bedale. “It wasn’t even the one the Queen really wears,” says Dame Margaret slightly regretfully. “We don’t make that one any more.” (Her Majesty declined a replacement when Barbour offered, preferring to get her old coat re–waxed). Dame Margaret herself owns about 26 and has given away considerably more (“my cleaning lady says she has one for every day of the week”).

Barbour had being going long before Dame Margaret was a twinkle in the eyes of her insurance salesman father and her greengrocer mother. In 1894, John Barbour, originally of Galloway, founded the company in South Shields, making coats out of oilcloth imported from Scotland. The Admiralty became an enthusiastic customer during the First World War, as did trawlermen, shepherds, the police and submariners – nobody posh. In 1934, Duncan Barbour, John’s grandson and a keen motorcyclist, introduced the biking jackets that became the uniform of every British international motorcycling team – and, later on, of Steve McQueen. Not posh either, but stylish. >>

MAY/JUN13

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WAXING LYRICAL In the early Nineties, post–Sloane Ranger mania and thanks to a few mild winters, sales dipped. Cannily, Dame Margaret expanded the design team to ensure the product range adapted to modern tastes, introduced lighter weights and relaunched the motorcycling range, which had been phased out in the Seventies in the face of competition from the likes of Belstaff. That was a key decision.

The motorcycle range is now 25 per cent of Barbour’s growth (turnover this year is running at £135 million). It’s not just that biker jackets and quilting are bona fide classics, but that Barbour’s motorbiking heritage is genuine.

These days, any brand that wants to survive must harness the growth hormone that is fashion, and Dame Margaret, her daughter Helen, who now works in the business, and managing director Steve Buck have a highly nuanced understanding of it.

“Men’s fashion needs to be quirky,” says Buck. “Then again, if I suggest something that’s wrong, Dame Margaret [all her staff call her Dame Margaret] will say, we did that in the Seventies and it didn’t work.”

One quirky men’s initiative that has worked is the Tokihito Yoshida–designed To Ki To Beacon Heritage jacket that Daniel Craig wears in Skyfall. Demand has vastly outstripped supply. For the first time, sales in the UK now exceed exports. Is it all those flashy non–doms moving to Surrey and taking up rural life? “I don’t think we’re quite on their radar yet,” says Dame Margaret. Her tone says it all.

Now 72 and married to her second husband, an architect, for 26 years, Dame Margaret comes into the office three days a week and spends the rest of her time on Barbour’s charitable foundation – and walking Goldie. I daresay even those South Shields gales don’t ruffle her immaculate blonde hair (she has it blow–dried twice a week) or penetrate those Barbours. She may consider herself merely “the custodian of the brand, for the next, sixth generation”, but that oilcloth is in her genes.

ARE YOU ON THE BARBOUR SPECTRUM? Rather like Land Rover, Barbour deftly manages to appeal to different audiences, without being defined by any of them. The company’s core constituency remains in the country: the Northumbria and Beaufort jackets are both all–terrain, any–weather wear.

The company’s partnership with Chad McQueen, the son of occasional Barbour–wearer Steve, has given it a potent figurehead around which to market a rugged range of biker jackets to a more fashion–conscious band of fans.

The To Ki To Beacon Heritage collection, chiefly designed by Tokihito Yoshida, is a painfully cool, liberally pocketed outerwear range that appeals to a younger audience – although its starring role in Skyfall has broadened that appeal.

Yet for each of these collections, outerwear is only 35 per cent of the story – 65 per cent of sales come from knitwear, accessories, shoes and other items. Constant collaborations with partners ranging from Bella Freud to Liberty provide a steady stream of prettified Barbour classics for its urban – often student – audience of aspirant Alexa Chungs. >> Credits >> Lisa Armstrong / The Daily Telegraph / The Interview People >> Photography >> Jason Bell (Main image/cover) Summer’s Barbour Gold Label by Temperley >> The designer says: “I have loved collaborating with Barbour, creating pieces that capture the essence of Barbour, that are identifiable and can be worn for years to come, yet still fresh and versatile. Temperley is a very feminine brand, with a focus on timeless designs with meticulous detailing and embellishments whereas Barbour is all about practicality and outerwear. I loved combining the two philosophies and fusing our heritages.”

By the time Margaret Davies, as she then was, met John Barbour in 1964, the company, which was being run by Duncan’s widow, Nancy – or Granny Barbour, as Dame Margaret calls her – was turning over £100,000 a year.

It was solid, comfortable and respectable. Margaret settled down to life as an art teacher, married to a man who had trained as an architect and whose wild side was expressed in a shared family passion for motorbikes. Then in 1968, when she was just 29 with a two–year– old daughter, John Barbour suddenly died from a brain haemorrhage.

Granny Barbour and Margaret were at the helm. Daughter and mother–in–law sounds like a recipe for fractiousness, but Dame Margaret says it was fine “because Granny was boss and I was doing sales, marketing and a bit of designing”.

Although Granny Barbour was no fool, she had a Situation on her hands with a member of staff who was making a muddle of directing the business. It took a high court case to get rid of that problem. But like another Margaret, who was the offspring of a greengrocer, Dame Margaret is made of steely stuff. She observed what the Italians and French were up to “and pinched a few ideas from them”. She plugged gaps in the range, introduced navy where there had only been olive and brown, staved off advances from bigger companies who wanted to buy Barbour & Sons on the cheap, launched new styles and took care not to slap Barbour’s name on anything she considered “nasty and undeserving of the Barbour association”.

She also commissioned an exclusive tartan for Barbour’s linings (“Can you imagine, until then they didn’t have their own?”) and raised her daughter Helen. What with Granny Barbour and Dame Margaret’s mother, who moved in to look after Helen, Barbour was an early incubator of Girl Power.

And then the Eighties happened, Sloane Rangers began appearing in Barbours on the King’s Road and sales went mad. Dame Margaret never allowed the product’s fashionability to get out of hand. “Oh no. I always said we had to keep moving the design on, so that if women wanted a shorter, narrower fit, it was there. But we also had to respect the core products.

It had to be authentic.”

Most of all, the jackets are still made in the UK, apart from some leather goods and flyweight jackets that are produced in Eastern Europe. “I pay a fortune for Caroline Charles for the same reason,” she says: “it’s thoroughly British.”

She never wanted to “do a Burberry”. “That would not be our style,” she says firmly, although she always foresaw that Barbour could be more than £100,000–a-year brand.

However, sometimes destiny is taken out of one’s hands. If fashionistas decide whiffy, vintage Barbours are It one year and Over the next, there’s not much Dame Margaret can do.

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>> John Barbour

>> Helen Barbour

MAY/JUN13

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LUXE LOVES

LUXE LOVES Lovely linens These hand-printed linen mix napkins by Jessica Hayes-Gill have a lovely understated knife, fork, spoon script design and are just perfect for a delicate dab at an unruly crumb. ÂŁ40 for a set of six. www.pabloblue.co.uk

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MAY/JUN13

www.fq-magazine.co.uk

THE BEST OF NORTH EAST FOOD & DRINK MAY/JUN 2013

JUST POP IN We’re on location with some sizzling pop-up supper clubs

CREATING MAKE STACIE’S SMASHING S’MORES DINING THE VALLUM EXPERIENCE EATING CHECKING OUT WHAT’S NEW IN FOOD GATSBY COCKTAIL WITH MIXER GEORGE COOKING PERFECT PATE IN LAYBOURNE’S MASTERCLASS GARDEN PODPERFECT PEAS CURRY CLASS STIRRING STUFF WITH NUFC’S STEVEN TAYLOR MAY/JUN13

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Liking the sound of...

New places, flavours and diary dates for gastros and gourmets

LOUNGES ABOUT Lotus Lounge continues to be the go-to spot for eastern food, funky sounds and soccer-star spotting in Yarm. The place recently created a ‘Prawn Fest’ in a day after getting a shout-out on Chris Evans’ breakfast show. Man-at-the-helm Howard Eggleston was live on the show and his team then managed to cope with an influx of crustacean-seeking diners. The restaurant celebrates its first anniversary in July and there’s more reason to celebrate as Lotus Lounge Durham opens later this month.

It’s in Durham’s Saddler Street and will offer the same pan-Asian menu as the Yarm restaurant with its Pad Thai and Asian tapas dishes. There will also be live music, dining events, cocktails and a cool vibe with its retro styling and river views.

At the kitchen helm will be Lee Hardy who has been working alongside Martin Moore at Yarm and who also worked at Seaham Hall’s Ozone pan-Asian restaurant.

For more details and a peek at the menus see www.lotus-lounge.co.uk

has been inspired to introduce the A Taste of the Sea weekends following comments from friends and family when she has thrown fish-themed supper parties, on how daunting seafood is to prepare and how they avoid cooking what is an abundant and often cheap ingredient in their own kitchens.

The A Taste of the Sea: Sole Food Weekends for Fish Lovers package is all inclusive and costs £350 for single occupancy for two nights’ accommodation and breakfast and £540 for two sharing and includes amongst other things the visit to North Shields Fish Quay, ingredients, preparation and cooking tuition, and a welcome drink with oysters and three-course meal at Barca Art Bar. www.martineau-house.co.uk

Food on the move is the sustenance of the moment – the latest being Electric East Catering Corp. Think fast, fresh, healthy Asian street food. The team, fatigued in worker ethic uniform, will be setting up camp at a series of events and festivals across the region this year.

Says manager Mark Lagun: “We’ve noticed the growing local appetite for street food, and we know that our dishes suit this informal style perfectly, so we decided that now was the ideal time for Electric East to go mobile. ” Follow @electriceast on Twitter and like Electric East on Facebook.

SEA THIS Don’t flounder over your fish. Sole Food Weekends for Fish Lovers are the brainchild of amateur cook Sally Craigen, who owns and runs the historic Martineau Guest House in Tynemouth. Just a short walk from the quayside, she has branched out to offer monthly residential courses for those who love eating seafood but are wary of preparing it.

Participants will be taught how to source, choose and prepare locally-caught fish and shellfish before heading home armed with the confidence and skill to begin cooking their own fantastic seafood recipes. They will also get the chance to visit North Shields Fish Quay’s famous early morning fish auction when wholesalers come to view and buy the catches of the day. Sally

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JOLLY JAM

CHILLI OUT

GET DOWN MOVE EAST

award-winning creamy Spurreli ice creams from around the corner. Check out the blackboard specials, which the day we visited, included pan-fried scallops, North Sea turbot with crab crust, and lemon sole with king prawn butter.

The Old Boat House, Leazes Street, Amble, NE65 0AA. Tel: 01665 711232

Down at The Stephenson Works on Sussex Street, Newcastle a new monthly food, drink and entertainment extravaganza is bringing out the street food folks in force.

Wylam Brewery and Riley’s Fish Shack are the brains behind ‘The Boiler Shop Steamer’, with the aim of presenting an after-work social on the first Friday and Saturday of the month where you can enjoy a range of ever-changing food vendors and superb drinks, while checking out pop-up boutiques and shops, enjoying cinema, comedy and live music (programmed by NARC. Magazine). Doors open at 4pm on Friday until 11pm and Saturday from midday until 6pm, entry is free.

See Facebook at www.facebook.com/ pages/The-Boiler-Shop-Steamer/ Follow @TheBoilerShop

SALTY DAYS Take a seaside sashay to Richard Sim’s tasty new venture with award-winning festival chef Martin Charlton in the salty environs of Amble in Northumberland. The Old Boat House is a rustic bistro, housed in the former RNLI building, overlooking the harbour.

The 35-cover restaurant has been open little more than a month but it’s got a buzzy vibe as word spreads among foodies.

A fishy haul as fresh as can be, most of it landed straight from the boats in and out of the harbour. Name checks to Steve Ramshaw’s beef, Ingram Valley lamb and

The annual North East Chilli Festival kicks off in every sense in July. On 6 & 7 of July, the fest will bring together the great and the good of the UK chilli scene from as far as Devon, armed with their spicy booty.

Stalls are complemented by local producers all doing chilli-related specials making this one of the most diverse food events in the region. If that’s not enough there’s an expanded street food area where you can buy an amazing array of foods to eat while you check out the famous chilli eating completion. All set in the grounds of Seaton Delaval Hall.

Early bird tickets, £4 from www.chillifest-ne.co.uk

DINING WITH A DINO? Everyone loves dinosaurs – so share your dinner with some big teeth at Life Centre in Newcastle to mark The Age of the Dinosaur exhibition this summer with a Dine with the Dinosaurs dinner on June 22.

The dinner is inspired by an event over 100 years ago when Victorian palaeontologist Sir Richard Owen first coined the term dinosaur. Working with Benjamin Waterhouse, an artist sculptor, they collectively produced thirty three ‘life size’ dinosaur sculptures for the 1853 Great Exhibition at Crystal Palace. The culinary highlight of the year’s event was The Iguanadon Dinner which took place within Waterhouse’s mould of the Iguanadon on the last night of 1853. Life’s interpretation of the event ‘Dinner with the Dinosaurs’ will start with a champagne reception within The Age of the Dinosaur exhibition and will proceed to the mezzanine floor, overlooking the sights and sounds of the 65 million years old Jurassic forest and Cretaceous desert!

Head chef Colin Bowden will serve up roasted monkfish tail salad, rich game soup, braised lamb shank followed by individual Charlotte russe on a Grand Marnier orange jelly – studded with colourful summer berries. £60 per person – call to book - Niamh Lightfoot on (0191) 243 8223

Jam glory for Jean Read who made a sweet scoop of awards at the eighth annual World’s Original Marmalade Awards, winning Gold for Three Fruit Marmalade (Orange, Grapefruit & Lemon) and two Bronzes for Seville Orange and Grapefruit Marmalade respectively. The World’s Original Marmalade Awards and Festival boasts the sponsorship backing of some of the most famous names in marmalade including Paddington and Fortnum & Mason. Jean’s distinctive, softest jams, marmalades, curds and chutneys are freshly prepared by hand in small batches, using the best of ingredients.

These artisan preserves with no additives and high fruit content are enjoyed by many discerning lovers of gourmet food.

Find them at LOCO Gosforth, MMM (Grainger Market), Vallum Farm Shop, Blagdon Farm Shop, Haswell’s Homer Hill Farm Shop and Moorhouse Farm Shop online shop (www.jrjams.co.uk)

ERNEST EATING Ernest is your new best friend if you need your breakfast at 3pm. Nestling in Ouseburn, it’s a café right behind the Biscuit Factory and is one hip spot – in a very comfy way.

Staff are charm itself, the place is peopled by students and arty types who like to read the papers with a macchiato and lemon meringue pie by their side. Cool sounds play and there is a bit of theatre going on too – you might chance on some firedancing when you’re passing or join them for new Tuesday night jazz sessions. The menu is all about using ingredients and making simple food delicious and fun.

Any variation on a breakfast is on offer all day, from the biggest grill you can muster – man vs food-style – to the sophisticated porridge pots – fig, nutmeg and ginger – yum. Flatbreads are a speciality, filled with things like anchovy, feta, olives and rocket or we love the sound of the cheeky Ernest Snazzy Snorker – a Cumberland sausage sandwich with caramelised onions, mustard and strong cheese.

The flatbread/drink (incl wine or beer) offer is just £7 Mon to Weds. Get yourself there!

And we love Chorizo Hash Bowl, £6. Dream of a dish. Crispy, drizzled chorizo with loads of spicy bite to it piled up with potatoes, a smattering of spinach leaves then a soft poached egg on top. The stuff of gourmet dreams. http://www.weareernest.com/

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dining

Soil associations Food hub Vallum Farm is becoming ‘gourmet central’ with its ethos of grow it, make it, eat it. The newest addition a restaurant by Dave Kennedy. Kathryn Armstrong visited It was a grand day in the true sense of the words. Big skies and long-forgotten sunshine. Green shoots, new lambs and loaves of freshly-baked bread piled high.

Vallum Farm near Corbridge this particular Saturday lunchtime was a busy spot. On a day like this the Northumberland views are wild and captivating and just being there makes you feel like you’re doing yourself good.

The full milk in the home-made ice-cream is the ‘good’ sort we tell ourselves. A pie if it’s home-made with locally sourced meat can only be beneficial to health.

Time to feast.

Vallum has become a haven for the foodie.

A baker, a butcher, an ice-cream parlour all attractions in themselves. Ken Holland the veg man tends his polytunnels on behalf of the great and good restaurants of the country and Bywell Smokery has a HQ here. Now chef Dave Kennedy has added his stamp with a purpose-built restaurant.

His meat is from animals raised in the fields that surround the restaurant, his bread freshly baked. Vegetables from the earth outside. We spy a chef with his trug of muddied veg making his way from garden to kitchen with the night’s offerings.

It’s a nice way of doing things, going where the likes of Daylesford Organics and Hugh Fearnley-W have gone before. People like its honesty and values in these times of horsemeat hysteria.

The Kennedy place is on the first floor of an unassuming brick and metal barn rather than your full-on rustic converted cowbyre.

The restaurant has floor-to-ceiling windows making the most of those amazing views and is furnished with old mismatched tables and chairs that with the choice pieces of antique furniture and solid wood floor go some way to cosying up the cavernous space.

The lunchtime we were there, the diners were definitely more silver rinse than trendy gastro. Maybe the serious gourmets make it a night-time expedition.

The two-course menu for £10 or three for £12.95 is at the hearty and healthy end of gourmet. Five choices of courses to ponder over a basket of super-fresh bread and real butter.

I had a Northumbria black pudding beignet to start. Three crispy beignets arrived,

each the size of a decent onion bhaji and looking quite majestic. Wasn’t really sure what to expect – there were chunks of pudding in a batter mixture that was still a bit too moussey in texture and floury in flavour – it could have benefitted from a little longer in the pan to firm up.

Husband’s main course was a roast breast of chicken, flavoursome and beautifully moist, served on what must have been newly-picked savoy cabbage and crushed potatoes. The essence of what the place is about – the flavours of the food.

I thought it appropriate to try the Vallum cottage pie, not least because it was with bashed swede and I love the stuff.

The pie came in a pot with nice whippy mash on top. Cottage pie is hardly culinary rocket science but this was as I loved it – dense meat and carrots, savoury gravy (but not too much) and a lovely layer of swede. We noted the beer-battered fish was doing a fine trade too – and another time would try the broad bean and parmesan risotto.

For dessert we shared some ice-cream in pursuit of our zero food-miles meal.

Lemon meringue flavour was creamy with the satisfying bite of zest in every mouthful – and the vanilla as creamy as it gets in that artery-friendly way!

A peep at the evening menu impressed us with dishes like Wallington estate sirloin, roasted turbot and Reg Johnson’s duck breast – which paints an interesting picture all its own – with pastille and wilted greens.

These mains priced at a friendly £11-19.50.

Regular food and wine nights are planned too.

Vallum’s a fine example of all things good about food. Pies that do you good – what’s not to love? www.vallumfarm.co.uk

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A different breed.

28 day aged, native breed beef to be exact.

The new Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill in Newcastle offers its customers an ultra modern dining experience in his first ever North East restaurant, serving locally-sourced produce and delicious cocktails in a cosy yet vibrant setting.

The Steakhouse Bar & Grill offers Marco’s own brand of affordable glamour and brings a bright new dining experience for even the most experienced of North East food lovers.

Marco Pierre White Newcastle @MPW_Newcastle t. 0191 300 9222 www.mpwsteakhousenewcastle.co.uk

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people

Popping by Cuba, a cheese factory and a container crate.

Creative combinations popping up on the region’s burgeoning supper club scene Crate expectations For food blogger Anna Hedworth the confines of a container crate are no barrier to dishing up a gourmet dinner for 20 people.

In fact the intimacy of the surroundings just adds to what is becoming one of the hottest food tickets in town – Ouse St Arts Club, a supper club dining experience that really does think outside of the box.

As an architect and food-lover, the combination of a wacky space and a gourmet challenge is irresistible for Anna.

She has been running her supper clubs in the Ouseburn crate since November. The crate was installed on land in the trendy riverside district near her office and converted into this desirable dining space over a year.

Diners come along, socialise, eat and then are invited to leave as much money for the meal as they feel it is worth. People have been kind in that respect and rightly so.

Anna is mad about cooking, food provenance and adventurous with her ideas. Mostly the dinners will have a theme of their own, such as the ‘British Flavours’ dinner.

A ‘smorgasbord’ to use a not-very-British term, is served up for diners to dive in and share. This is sociable dining at its best – sitting on a bench in a container crate there’s no place for reserve.

Everything is made by Anna, from the pickles to the bread and even the butter.

The starters include a game terrine made from rabbit and pheasant provided by her dad who shoots.

Beer cheese is a cheese blended with garlic and salmon tartare completes the choices.

The main course; pie, mash and liquor.

Chicken, bacon and ox-tongue pie. The ox tongue wasn’t one of Anna’s favourite food moments, “a bit weird to be handling an entire ox tongue but I slow cooked it for hours then flaked it into the pie – it has really rich, irony gamey-ness to it. She made the liquor – or gravy – with wild garlic and meat juices and served it with truffle mash and a watercress salad.

Desserts are small taster plates – rhubarb and candied ginger compote, chocolate black pudding – a rolled chocolate ganache with fruit.

The crate has a sister crate – something of an ante-room – with restrooms and a kind of reception area so it’s not just the one big box – it is a sociable space. People come along as a couple or in small groups – by the end of the night friendships are forged over the love of good food.

The art of making the food happen effortlessly is much pre-preparation and organisation.

“You do a cold starter then plate it up then

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the same with desserts. We start off with a nice cocktail – for the British dinner it was a gin and lemon soda (she is also planning to make her own gin) and people bring their own drinks,” says Anna.

“People sit at a long table on benches and at the end of the crate there is a projection on the wall and we have lots of candles – it is very atmospheric.”

Guests are asked to contribute what they feel the meal is worth and usually offer £20-£30 a head.

Anna is currently working with the National Trust on plans for some summer supper clubs in iconic locations in the region – she’s very excited at the prospect in terms of food if not logistics.

“I fancy foraging on the beaches – making things like seaweed pannacotta and serving it up on the Farne Islands!

Details of Anna’s supper clubs are on her blog, www.the-grazer.blogspot.co.uk/ Anna has also been taking part in the Live Below the Line food challenge with Oxfam to survive on £1 a day for food.

Her blog makes for a fascinating read.

This is sociable dining at its best - sitting on a bench in a container crate there’s no place for reserve!

Supper sassy Chalked up on the huge blackboard that is Sarah Hill’s ’to do’ list, are the words ‘put 33 up’.

It’s the door number of her home in Saltburn by the Sea which in a few days’ time will resemble Havana as she turns her living room into a restaurant hosting a Cuban Night for her second monthly Saltburn Supper Club.

Strangers will be making their way to her door in search of this dining adventure so it’s a good idea that her guests rock up at the right door.

It’s sold out. As is another in a few weeks’ time, organised by popular demand for the people who weren’t fast enough to book in for the first night. At 16 places per night it is an exclusive little club.

No wonder there’s been a rush. A glance at the menu certainly gets the juices flowing.

Frituras de Cangrejo – crab fritters with mango and salad. Lechon Asado – slowroasted pork and a selection of sides that take in sweet friend plantains, Cuban rice and beans and vegetable skewers brushed with Mojo Criolla sauce.

When we meet, Sarah says she plans to fill her afternoon on a test run for baked lime cheesecake with coconut and cream.

Meanwhile, playing in her head is a soundtrack that will include the likes of Buena Vista Social Club.

All this for a suggested donation of £20 per person.

The venue will be the sitting room of Sarah’s modest terraced house, renovation

of which is a ‘work in progress’ – Sarah doing the work.

When she started her Saltburn Supper Club she was slightly apprehensive that her guests might be concerned at the lack of stair carpet on the bare treads.

But, she ventures, it’s the food and the

company they come for.

And that is, of course, what the whole idea of the relaxed supper club trend is all about.

Prices kept low with ad hoc venues, a bring-your-own-bottle policy but the guarantee of great food because your chef

MAY/JUN13

Slow-roasted pork is marinated for two days beforehand then cooks for four hours

a number of other catering projects have given her a definite ‘go for it’ approach to the prospect.

“Supper clubs are really popular elsewhere in the country and have been a bit slow to take off up here but there is a momentum now.

“I have done large-scale catering for weddings and other events – we also owned a ‘Burrito Bus’ which we took to festivals and events catering for large groups of people,” she adds.

Her guests are likely to be people from the local arty town of Saltburn, ‘a friendly bunch, a nice community’.

The etiquette of the night means that you’re expected to be sociable, fill your own water jug from the tap if it runs out – and never click your fingers for ‘service’!

“It is an affordable and different way to socialise,” says Sarah. ”I love good food, feeding people and making them happy. My rule to self is not to have any wine until the last dish is out!

I have it timed to precision on the chalkboard and spend the afternoon preparing everything fresh.

“The slow-roasted pork will be marinated for two days beforehand and takes about four hours to cook in total. The rest will be prepared just before people arrive – things like crab cakes you have to cook and serve straight away.

“I rely on quality produce, local and seasonal vegetables. I scour charity shops for quirky crockery too so we end with tea or coffee in vintage cups with a homemade biscuit.”

“The lovely thing about doing this is that you get so consumed with it and the possibilities – I am being patient but I have loads of ideas and hope it will become a good business for me.”

For ideas and menus see the book Supper Club by Kerstin Rodgers or the website www.supperclubfangroup.ning.com Get in touch with Sarah at email saltburnsupperclub@gmail.com

Roving restaurant In North Yorkshire Nicola Dixon is the brains behind The Laden Table, a roving restaurant that has embarked on a 12-month, 12-location series of dinners in cool places.

Already she has brought Andrew Pern to

for the night is passionate about that side of things.

Sarah’s not a trained chef but an ‘in the blood’ one. She was brought up in Middlesbrough by a food-loving family with a butcher granddad. Her sister is the food writer Catherine Hill who we’ve written about in this magazine – author of The Weekend Cookbook.

The sisters share a love of food and are happiest gathered round a table with their little batch of freshly-made children – Sarah’s daughter Kenzie is six and Catherine has a six and three-year-old.

Their approach to cooking is about making it a sociable affair but with much attention to detail when it comes to techniques, tastes and ingredients.

Sarah’s husband is from the States and for him home-cooking is deep South flavours.

He teaches at Teesside University after having worked on special effects on films including Harry Potter. He’s the genial host

MAY/JUN13

of the SSC and loves the role.

“The first supper club we did was Afghan food – we used to live near an Afghan restaurant in London and loved the dishes,” recalls Sarah.

“We did lamb and spinach stew with pumpkin and yoghurt on the side - it went down very well!

“Beforehand I was filled with anxiety and butterflies – then once people sat down and started talking to each other and eating, the atmosphere was brilliant – I took a moment in the kitchen to stop and listen and hear the laughter and think, yes, it’s working!”

Sarah hopes to develop the supper club as a business in its own right. Her background is in architectural interior design – she is in charge of the property renovation and has pretty much installed her own kitchen.

She left her job to spend more time at home with her daughter and the success of the supper club venture and

cook at the HQ of Shepherd’s Purse Cheeses and in the next two months will organise pop-ups at Helmsley Walled Garden with chef Stephanie Moon and at The Bivouac at Masham’s Swinton Park hotel.

The 28-year-old’s vision evolved after she spent time in the Alaskan wilderness and became interested in food sustainability, foraging and seasonality. Her aim is to cook food in the physical proximity of the place it is served – such as a cheeseinspired menu at the cheese factory.

“Simply put, we are a roving restaurant, holding dinners in unorthodox locations including farms, orchards and greenhouses. The physical proximity to the origin of the food is especially important when choosing locations, creating a unique sense of closeness to what you are eating - a feeling that is rare these days. We want to reconnect people who love eating great food with the great people who produce it.”

Nicola is passionate about living a self-sufficient life and works alongside chefs to seek ingredients that are anchored to the seasons and a definite place.

“The Laden Table is about inviting people to gather in a shared place to connect and share both meal and inspiration. Each meal is a collaboration with local food artisans and farmers to provide a stylishly rustic meal,” she says.

Each dinner will be cooked by a local chef chosen for their passion and commitment to using ingredients that both taste good and have a positive impact on health.

“Food that’s responsibly produced, food that’s a result of plants and animals being treated well, and food that inspires,” she says.

“We don’t believe a starched white uniform equates to good service, for us good service starts with a smile and ends with an extensive knowledge about the food on your plate. We are committed to operating a business that not only benefits the community in which we operate, but the world in which we live. My chief team member, Chloe Skinner is most likely to be found wearing a floral dress and wellington boots, and that’s okay with me.”

The Helmsley dinner will be on May 25 and the Bivouac dinner June 15.

Details www.theladentable.com

Their approach to cooking is about making it a sociable affair but with much attention to detail when it comes to taste

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supper club

Room for cellar-bration A glittering gourmet dinner marked a charity’s silver anniversary at Middleton Lodge near Darlington

Venue Middleton Lodge recently took a starring role in The Syndicate as a property bought by a lottery winner

It’s some 25 years since the launch of Tees Valley’s Community Foundation – an event worthy of a gourmet celebration by way of thanks to past and present donors, trustees and supporters.

And a decidedly different and intimate venue too, at Middleton Lodge’s atmospheric Cellar Bar. If any of you watched the recent TV series, The Syndicate, you will have seen Middleton Lodge, on the outskirts of Darlington, take a starring role as a property bought by one of the lottery winners.

It’s quite a destination – as well as a location for many weddings it was also hired by actor/comedian Steve Coogan for his 40th birthday weekend.

A celebrity in itself then this gracious Georgian house, which is still part family home.

The latest addition is the Cellar Bar and this atmospheric spot is where the Foundation’s celebration dinner was held.

The brick-lined cellar with its arched wine racks, low ceilings and stone-flagged floor has been renovated to provide a dining destination for the monthly Cellar Bar Supper Club which has chef Robert Taylor at the helm.

He’s appeared on MasterChef: The Professionals and is part of a team developing a restaurant and cookery school on the site.

The dinner was attended by supporters of

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the Foundation with its president, Sir Ron Norman, former chairman of Teesside Development Corporation, recalling its origins encouraged by Margaret Thatcher who had seen the success of philanthropy in the US through the Mott Foundation.

Today the Foundation in Tees Valley administers charity giving to the tune of millions to the community. Donors provide money in the shape of grant funding; free professional expertise and advice comes though Professional Services Group members and a team of Viva Volunteers provide the time and enthusiasm to fulfil the vision.

Says chief executive Hugh McGouran, “At the heart of what we do is giving; the act of giving time, money, effort and support.

We believe that in helping people we may be able to improve their quality of life.

Every week we can see the positive effect our giving has had on people and their lives and the environments it changes for the better.”

The dinner marked the start of a year of recognition of the anniversary year.

So to the menu.

A taster of scallop served as an appetiser before a starter of fall-apart lovely ham hock pressing with a pineapple and vanilla chutney, quail egg and bacon crisp.

Every ingredient a flavour adventure and the plate a picture in itself. The terrine was hearty and flavoursome with a salty and savoury bite that balanced perfectly with the unusual sweet chutney with its tropical twist – a stylish version of that pub grub

favourite, gammon and pineapple.

A main course of roasted lamb loin and confit lamb croquette contrasted the slow-cooked and super-tender confit with the pink, tender loin. Richly-flavoured both. Nice touches like a sweet onion puree and sage and onion jus alongside adding twists of flavour to complement the lamb.

The clever dessert was a ‘taste of lemon’ with a platter of delicate patisserie and ice-cream. The lemon tart a favourite with

its caramelised topping.

A varied cheeseboard took diners on a tour of the best – Harrogate Blue, Celtic Promise, Old Peculiar and Oxford Isis on this grand board.

Much to enjoy at this silver celebration.

Details of Middleton Lodge Cellar Suppers Clubs on www.middletonlodge.co.uk For info on the work of the Foundation www.teesvalleyfoundation.org

The clever dessert was a ‘taste of lemon’ with a platter of delicate patisserie singing the praises of the lemon MAY/JUN13

Meet the chef

The people behind the region’s favourite restaurants share their kitchen secrets and culinary inspiration Norman Bradford Victoria Vassallo Head Chef CHAPTERS HOTEL & RESTAURANT Signature dish: Seabass with curried spinach and red wine sauce - it’s an old recipe coming from the Romans Favourite ingredient: Herbs Inspirational chef: Raymond Blanc Favourite restaurant and why: The Black Pig in Malta - food is uncomplicated but with very good ingredients.

Describe your style of cooking: It is modern continental cuisine Tel: 01642 711 888 www.chaptershotel.co.uk

Sous Chef MARCO PIERRE WHITE STEAKHOUSE BAR & GRILL Signature dish: Assiette of pork. Pork is so versatile you can pretty much use all of the animal and I love different textures, flavours and techniques.

Favourite ingredient: Fresh hand-dived scallops.

Inspirational chef: Marco Pierre White.

Favourite restaurant and why: Fisherman’s Lodge. I was very proud to work at the Fisherman’s Lodge when it was awarded 3 Rosettes. An incredible accolade.

Describe your style of cooking: Modern British with French techniques Tel: 0191 300 9222 www.hotelindigonewcastle.co.uk

Martin Moore

Sajid Hussain

Head Chef LOTUS LOUNGE YARM

Head Chef LUIGIKHAN’S

Signature dish: Local Miso cod, rich Asian flavour, pan fried or grilled.

Caramelised skin, served with miso broth infused with Asian flavours, enoki mushrooms, asparagus and egg noodles Favourite ingredient: Local seafood, good core ingredients, cooked simply with clean and clear flavours Inspirational chef: Jean-George Vongerichten Favourite restaurant and why: Australasia in Manchester, stunning restaurant setting, great cooking skills, pan-Asian flavours and great service.

Describe your style of cooking: Rich strong Asian flavours and a dish cooked with European and modern skills

Signature dish: I’m a huge fan of the traditional Punjabi karahi curry. Lamb is my favourite. It’s a simple but very tasty dish made with tomatoes, chilli and ginger.

Favourite ingredient: I like working with any masala spices. Something that’s aromatic and has some heat to really add some punch to a curry.

Inspirational chef: Gordon Ramsay.

Favourite restaurant: Babucho on Dean Street.

Describe your style of cooking: I’m from Pakistan and love cooking Punjabi curries using fresh ingredients Tel: 0191 272 4937 www.luigikhans.com

Tel: 01642 355 558 www.lotus-lounge.co.uk

David Henry Head Chef of Banqueting ROCKLIFFE HALL Signature dish: Boned and rolled leg of herb-fed chicken, smoked streaky bacon, roast root vegetables, pearl barley and thyme sauce.

Favourite ingredient: Fallow deer Inspirational chef: Brett Graham (The Ledbury) Favourite restaurant and why: The Pot Kiln in Berkshire, a really rustic pub/restaurant.

Describe your style of cooking: I’m quite a rustic style of chef. I love using the cheap cuts and making something stunning out of it. I still like clean lines but love bold flavours Tel: 01325 729 999 www.rockliffehall.com

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Rhian Cradock Head Chef THE FEATHERS INN Signature dish: My own home-made black pudding with poached free-range egg and devilled gravy.

Favourite ingredient: Ann Gray’s Middle White pork.

Inspirational chef: Elizabeth David, for her love of food.

Favourite restaurant: Koffmann’s at the Berkeley. The food is sublime, it is well priced in a great setting.

I like Zecca in Amble for good local fish and meat.

Describe your style of cooking: Traditional British, highlighting local produce and higher welfare ingredients.

Tel: 01661 843607 www.thefeathers.net

Pau l Am er

Ma rco Pie rre White Stea khouse bar

& grill

in the mix Paul Amer, head chef at the Marco Pierre White Steakhouse at Hotel Indigo in Newcastle, has enjoyed a career spanning 30 years working with some of the world’s best chefs.

Leading the brigade at Hotel Indigo, Paul has had stints working alongside Gordon Ramsay, Raymond Blanc and Marco himself - before he knew that one day he would head up one of his celebrated restaurants himself. Living every chef’s dream, he has owned his own restaurant as well as working in acclaimed kitchens in establishments such as the Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons, the Fisherman’s Lodge and 21 Queen Street. Excelling in numerous competitions, including the Roux Diners Scholarship and ‘guest cheffing’ on TV’s Countryfile and Inside Out, Paul says: “I am passionate about food and take great pride in the creation and presentation of each and every one of the dishes I produce. I consider myself a perfectionist with the ability to cook to a very high standard across all areas with my chef’s brigade, which gives me the ability and knowledge to create seasonal dishes and menu’s that ‘fit’ and the customers love.”

A childhood food memory: Blissful Sunday afternoons at my grandmother’s, helping her bake homemade pies, scones and cakes.

A favourite family dish: My wife’s lamb hotpot.

A meal that inspired you: Any Michelin Star restaurant inspires me. I take inspiration from the chefs who have achieved this accolade.

A wine that inspires you: I am not a big wine drinker, however I love a glass of full bodied Barolo with a great steak. It’s also great for a superb sauce.

A restaurant wine list you return to time and again: This would have to be Caffe Vivo, a well-thought-out wine list with balance.

An inspirational chef: Philip Howard from The Square in London blew me away last time I ate at his establishment.

The last food you ate: The wife’s lamb hotpot!

Your last food and wine would be: A very naughty, rich chocolate dessert.

I am a self-confessed chocaholic.

Favourite food and wine city: London and Barcelona.

Favourite ingredient: Where do I start?

Maybe eggs - so versatile, so scientific.

And of course, chocolate.

The wine or dish you would pass on to your children: I try to teach my children healthy eating habits, but a proper Sunday roast with all the trimmings should always be passed from generation to generation.

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Masterclass

with Terry Laybourne If you’re packing a picnic this summer this home-made pate will be your baguette’s best friend

Country-Style Pate Pâté de Campagne is a stalwart of French bistro cooking which can at times appear daunting for the home cook. In reality the process couldn’t be simpler but it does require diligent shopping and meticulous technique. Don’t be put off by what appears to be an inordinate amount of fat. It’s the fat which brings moisture and lightness to the dish. Pay attention to the instruction to chill everything; meat, fat, mincing machine, everything. This has a huge impact on the end result 1tbls

Soft butter

1 pinch

Quatre Epices*

2 tsp

Chopped shallot

35g

Plain flour

140g

Button mushrooms, sliced

35ml

Dry white wine

1kg

Pork back fat

35ml

Cognac

540g

Pig’s liver

60g

Pistachio nuts

100g

Foie gras

90g

Sliced pancetta

60g

Beaten egg,

2

Thyme sprigs

30g

Salt

3

Bay leaves

7g

Pepper

1tsp

Pink peppercorns

1 Chill the mincer parts by submerging in a bowl of iced water and the meat by placing in a freezer for 30 minutes

5 Assemble the mincer with the chilled parts and grind the chilled meats and shallot/ mushroom mixture through a coarse (8 – 10mm) plate into a bowl over another bowl of ice

9 Arrange the thyme sprigs and bay leaves on top then scatter the pink peppercorns

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2 Cut a sheet of non-stick baking parchment to fit a 1.5kg terrine mould and cover with slices of pancetta, overlapping very slightly

6 Transfer to the bowl of a mixing machine with a paddle attachment. On the lowest speed add the seasonings, then eggs, flour, alcohol and finally the pistachios. Mix until the mixture becomes sticky and paste-like

3

4

Place the sheet into the terrine mould and chill in the fridge

7

8

With wet hands, transfer the mixture to the lined mould. Smooth the surface then bang the mould down onto the work surface two or three times to expel any air pockets

10 Cover the mould with a double thickness of kitchen foil and place in a deep roasting tray. Pour in enough boiling water to come halfway up the side of the mould. Transfer to the oven set at 120°C and bake for 90 minutes until the core temperature reads 65°C. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for twenty minutes then remove the foil. Cover with a wooden or plastic board and place a 1kg weight on top. Refrigerate overnight

Melt the butter in a small sauté pan and add chopped shallots and mushrooms.

Cook over a medium heat for 7-8 minutes until softened and all juices have been re-absorbed. Season with a little salt and pepper, transfer to a small tray and chill

Fold pancetta over the top of the mix, using a small knife as an aid

11 Serve cut into generous slices accompanied by lots of crusty bread and a bowl of pickled gherkins *Quatre epices – a spice blend universally used by French charcutiers. You can easily make your own by blending equal quantities of ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves and ground allspice.

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Is an Indian summer upon us?

Spicy pleasures with Maunika Gowardhan Nothing brings more joy than a lit barbecue with your marinated meats all stacked up ready to be cooked on that hot grill. Sizzling while they cook soaking in the marinade flavours; stuffed in flat bread with fresh zingy salad on the side, dollops of cooling yoghurt and chutneys with beers in tow. That to me is what it’s all about. My recipe below for that ever-popular tandoori chicken tikka is an absolute winner!

When the gorgeous Devnaa cookbook was sent over, it

with the Patak’s brand, my shiny new Facebook page (www.facebook.com/maunikagowardhan ) and also I am chuffed to be asked by Jamie Oliver and his team to teach Indian cooking at his cook school in London!

gave me another excuse to rustle up Indian sweets.

London-based luxury Indian sweets brand Devnaa specialise in amazing flavours like pistachio rosette with rose water, cardamom and chocolate. The book, like their selection, is varied with a selection of jalebis, barfis and truffles. Indian Inspired Desserts is available via their website www.devnaa.com It’s been an exciting year so far what with a glam photo shoot for a national magazine out next month, filming

For more cookery class dates in the region and lots more recipes you can check out www. maunikagowardhan.co.uk or on Twitter @cookinacurry.

Until next time, M x

Tandoori chicken tikka Method

Ingredients

Add the ginger, garlic and green chilli in a wet grinder and blend to a smooth paste. Mix the yoghurt with the gram flour in a bowl to get rid of any lumps to form a thick paste-like consistency.

Add the ginger, garlic chilli paste, paprika, chilli powder, garam masala and coriander powder. Also mix in the cinnamon, saffron and salt. Add chicken pieces and mix. Leave to marinate overnight.

Soak wooden skewers in water. Preheat the grill on medium. Shake off the excess marinade and thread the chicken pieces onto skewers and place them on a wire rack. Cook under the grill for 15-20 minutes.

Turn the skewers every 5 minutes and baste with melted butter until the juices run clear and they are cooked through slightly charred around the edges.

Serve warm over roti or parathas along with mint chutney or raita.

450g 2 tbsp 2 tsp 4 1” 1 1 tsp 1/2 tsp 1/2 tsp 1 tsp

1 tsp

Skinless boneless chicken thighs cut into bite-size pieces Thick yoghurt/Greek yoghurt Chickpea flour/gram flour Cloves garlic Piece ginger peeled Green chilli Mild paprika Chilli powder (or a little more if you’d like it spicy) Garam masala powder Coriander powder Pinch cinnamon powder Pinch of saffron crushed Salt to taste Butter for basting Chaat masala Juice of 1/2 a lemon Salad & chutney to serve

JAMES BOND CASINO NIGHT

FATHER’S DAY LUNCH

CLAIRVOYANT NIGHT

Friday 14th June Includes a three course meal, Casino & Disco.

Sunday16th June Three course dinner, a beer & a free gift for Dad.

Thursday 22nd August £12.00 per person including a buffet.

£29.00 per person.

£25.00 per person

Tarrot card readings are an additional cost on the night

Contact our events team for more information 0191 372 7200 or email events.durham@radissonblu.com www.radissonblu.co.uk/hotel-durham twitter@radissondurham facebook.com/radissondurham

MAY/JUN13

HOTEL, DURHAM

33

In season With Matty Blafzczyk Chef at the new Southbank Grill on Newcastle-Gateshead Quayside, Matty joins FQ with a seasonal guide to cooking Officially the asparagus season began St. George’s Day, 23 April, and we at Southbank Grill, although taking our menu inspiration from America, are proud of all things British.

You might be surprised to know that although a very British vegetable, asparagus has US links too.

It’s a well-known fact that the Vale of Worcestershire is heralded as the largest producer of asparagus in Northern Europe and the week-long festival that ensues is testament to that.

However, less well known is that our American cousins hold the asparagus in such high regard that they too hold a similar event.

The Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta region is so significant for its asparagus that the city of Stockton, California, and the city of Hart, Michigan hold a festival every year to celebrate - complete with a parade and Asparagus Queen! In fact when you delve deeper into the love for asparagus, you realise that across the world this highly-prized vegetable is celebrated in similar fashion. It is no wonder that the word “asparagus” derives from the Persian “asparag”, meaning “sprout”, as it seems when the asparagus season is upon us, not only does the earth sprout a shard of delight, but sprouts festivities across the globe. www.southbankgrill.com

Lamb roulade stuffed with smoked Oscypek cheese served with spinach and asparagus mash potato and herbed red wine gravy Ingredients Boneless lamb shoulder Oscypek cheese Rosemary, thyme, parsley, Mint 1 Red onion 100ml Dry red wine 300g Potatoes 300g 20g

100g 150g 1 150ml

Spinach Asparagus Clove of garlic Milk Salt & pepper Toothpicks

Method

When the asparagus season is upon us it sprouts festivities across the globe 34

Mix the milk with thyme, salt and finely chopped garlic clove.

Place the lamb shoulder in the fragrant milk and place in the fridge to marinade for 24 hours.

Finely chop the red onion, parsley mint and thyme and sweat in a pan, stirring all the time.

Take the mix off the gas once sweated down.

Chop the Oscypek cheese finely (alternatively you could use a smoked goat’s cheese) and blend together with the sweated down herb mix and two tbs of red wine.

After 24 hours of marinating, take the lamb shoulder out of the fridge.

Next pound the lamb shoulder until it is roughly 1/4 inch thick (TIP – cut the edges off a 1 gallon size freezer bag so the two sides are only joined at the bottom. Place the lamb between the sheets of plastic and pound) When the lamb is thinned out, place the cheese mix prepared earlier on top of the meat.

Now roll the shoulder to make a roulade using toothpicks to keep it together (TIP – place the toothpicks in water for a few minutes before using, making it much easier to remove after cooking) Place the roulade on a high sided baking tray and wrap in tin foil.

Place in pre-heated oven at 160C for around 20 minutes. (Remember to keep the high sided baking tray with juices for the gravy) Spinach and asparagus mashed potato: Boil the potatoes for 15 – 20 minutes until soft, adding the baby spinach just before the potatoes are cooked.

In a separate pot boil the asparagus for 5 minutes.

Drain the potatoes, asparagus and baby spinach thoroughly and blend together, adding salt and pepper to taste.

To make the gravy, add the rest of the red wine, rosemary and thyme to the high sided baking tin the lamb was cooked in and deglaze. Reduce liquid by threequarters until you get a nice tasty gravy.

MAY/JUN13

dining

Made to measure

Felixkirk in North Yorkshire is one of those hidden little places that’s trying to be off the beaten track, except it’s not really. Just a couple of minutes’ drive from the A19 near the York turn-off. Mightily accessible from all corners of the North East.

The name of our destination gives a hint of the area we’re in – The Carpenters (I am dying to give it an apostrophe but they don’t) Arms. This is the Yorkshire furniture triangle – the place where craftsmen continue the art of fine furniture-making, the best-known being Robert Thompson, the ‘mouse man’ down the road in Kilburn.

So there’s your reason to visit if you’re in

MAY/JUN13

the market for a new dining table.

This pub is in the centre of this honeypot village which is very Cotswoldian, if that’s a word. The pub’s atmosphere straddles the climate – cosy and welcoming when it’s cold outside, open and sunny on the good weather days.

Out back is a generous terrace, BBQ shack and garden.

Rooms in the courtyard are arranged around a landscaped garden. Full-length windows with views give a loft-feel inside with light oak furnishings and very chic bathrooms. It’s very ‘weekender’ and potentially love-nest thanks to stuff like

We’re off gastro-pubbing in North Yorkshire

Egyptian cotton sheets, big fluffy towels, bathrobes and L’Occitane products.

The pub is part of a group called Provenance Inns who run a neat little array of great dining pubs in North Yorkshire – names you will know like the Durham Ox at Crayke and the Punch Bowl at Martoncum-Grafton. They’ve also taken over the Black Bull at Moulton.

Food is a big deal – and especially where it comes from. The menus are peppered with details of the people who grow, rear and farm the ingredients on the plate and the owners demand that they are from the locality.

Suppliers are based in North Yorkshire – from venison to herb-fed chicken, to specialist apple-growers and heritage veg suppliers.

Consequently, you’re talking solid gastro pub fayre when you sit down to eat. The pub remains a village hub so there are well-priced early evening specials and regular themed dining evenings – an up-and-coming Australian wine dinner with Corney & Barrow for example or a chef demo lunch with Stephanie Moon.

We dined on the evening menu and chose a sharing platter of smoked meats from local suppliers (this isn’t on the current menu) which included duck and venison.

The menu is fairly conventional in terms of choices with the ingredients doing the shouting. Everything is well crafted – nice breads, warm service from happy staff and easy-going atmosphere.

We went for steak main courses, largely because the smell coming from the char-grill was simply irresistible.

They were a proud boast of a steak 10oz, 25-day hung from Water Ford Farm no less.

Extremely well-cooked and packed with flavour – joined by a nicely retro garnish of tomato and mushroom and great hefty chips, as you might expect. Good value at £20 – I bet the sharing Chateaubriand on the menu is amazing. The char-grilled flavour took the meat to another level.

The cheeseboard is a British rather than Yorkshire affair – with some Roquefort thrown in, always a pleasure. Odd not to see Shepherd’s Purse cheese on there as it is only a stone’s throw away. Lovely artisan biscuits and chutneys were a good touch and it was nice to see Affogato on the menu, a favourite – the cheeky vanilla ice-cream and espresso combo just enough of a pud after the conquering of the steak!

It goes without saying that breakfasts lived up to their local provenance billing – hearty as they come to set you up for a good day striding up nearby Sutton Bank.

Nice bit of handiwork the Carpenters. www.thecarpentersarmsfelixkirk.com

35

Curry classroom Steve’s Food Life A childhood food memory: Mum’s spag bol or nana’s Sunday dinners.

The last meal you ate: Salmon and veg last night.

A meal that inspired you: Blackened cod at Zuma Japanese restaurant in London.

A wine that inspires you: I don’t really drink wine or beer – my drink is a vodka with lime and lemonade.

A restaurant you return time and again: I like the Barrasford Arms near Hexham - always really good the platter of tempura prawns – great. I also like Fratelli’s in Ponteland.

Best food TV: Come Dine With Me. I like the banter and fun of it.

Your own Come Dine With Me: Tim Krul, Johan Cabaye, Debuchy. We’d have Victoria’s Secrets models cooking and serving us and we’d eat sizzling garlic king prawns, a fillet of Gaucho Argentine steak and apple crumble and custard or chocolate brownie.

An inspirational chef: I am liking what I see with Bob. Favourite ingredient: Chilli.

Your last meal? Steak and then some Arrighi’s ice-cream from the parlour in Seaton Delaval – my mum is from Seaton Delaval and so it’s in the blood!

36

NUFC’s Steve Taylor spices it up with curry captain Bob Arora Steve Taylor is about to reveal his secret gourmet passion. It involves feta cheese and caramel Snack A Jacks, we kid you not.

Would it pass the invention test on MasterChef? Probably not, but it’s his go-to dish when the midnight munchies attack.

The recipe, if you can call it that, goes something like this. Layer up a caramel Snack A Jack rice cake with feta cheese chunks, baby tomatoes and then a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Great, really great, he implores with a grin.

Still, the addition of that balsamic glaze in the store cupboard suggests at least a semblance of new-man grocery shopping.

But he admits it’s off to his best mate’s house for a Sunday lunch, “I’m a single lad, I rely on my mate and his wife.”

Snack A Jacks aside, Steve is keen on the fine foods in life. He loves eating out and he

does have some signature dishes he cooks at home – fajitas and whatever he can whack on his George Forman grill, that most manly of domestic appliances.

“I love spicy food – a king prawn or chicken jalfrezi is my favourite,” anything with a kick to it would seem appropriate for the defender.

Last meal - Arrighi’s ice-cream from the parlour in Seaton Delaval - it’s in the blood!

MAY/JUN13

On the menu: ‘Monkfish ‘Tayls’ with spicy potatoes and Bengali masala

What it’s got going for it: The fish is coated in a pistachio crust for an unusual and distinctive flavour.

The trick: Coat the monkfish in the spices and cook straight away, patting the crust down.

Ingredients The masala

Spiced potatoes Ingredients

Serves four Stage 1 2 tsp vegetable oil for cooking 1 tsp black mustard seeds 1 tsp cumin 1 tsp fenugreek seeds 1 tsp mustard 1/2 tsp chilli flakes (alter to suit preference) 2 red chillies snapped in half Stage 2 3 onions, chopped 4 tomatoes, chopped 1/2 tbsp pureed garlic and ginger blitzed with a little oil – you can make larger quantities and freeze in an ice-cube tray.

150 ml water Stage 3 1 tsp turmeric 1/2 tsp red chilli powder 1/2 tsp garam masala 2 tbsp tomato puree Pinch dried fenugreek Good handful fresh coriander

1 tsp 1tsp

Method Add the oil to a heavy based pan then cook the onions until soft but uncoloured. Add the spices for stage 1, stirring the mixture until it becomes paste-like. If it gets too dry just add a little water. This takes about five minutes. Then add the stage 2 ingredients adding the water gradually as needed to keep the texture sauce-like and not too runny. With the temperature low, add the stage 3 ingredients and leave the sauce to simmer gently.

The coriander is added at the last minute for a fresh garnish. *If the sauce is too hot you can add some natural yoghurt to calm it down – do this after the sauce is taken from the heat or it will separate.

He’s comfortable then in our pop-up kitchen in Sachins restaurant where owner Bob Arora is at the helm of another curry masterclass.

This time on the menu is a fish dish – which today we’re calling ‘Monkfish Tayls’ – geddit?

The monkfish will be cooked in rich spices then we’re making a side dish of chilli potatoes and a Bengali-style sauce.

Steve’s happy at the stove, he was brought

MAY/JUN13

6 1 tsp 35 ml

vegetable oil black mustard seeds Handful of sliced onion potatoes, boiled and cut into cubes turmeric Pinch chilli powder (to taste) water Pinch salt Fresh coriander

A pistachio crust on the monkfish makes the dish a stand-out one

Method Put the oil in a pan and add the onion and spices. Cook until the onion is softened. Add a little water to make a runny paste and keeping stirring the mixture. Add a pinch of salt and put the potatoes into the mixture. Stir and leave for around five minutes. Sprinkle with coriander to serve.

Monkfish ‘Tayls’ Ingredients Serves 2 Oil 2 monkfish fillets 150g pistachio nuts Pinch chilli powder (to taste) Salt Black pepper

Method Crush the dry ingredients – or blitz in a blender - with a little oil to form a paste that is quite firm in texture.

Press it on to the monkfish fillets. Heat some oil in a pan and fry the fillets for about ten minutes, basting with oil until golden brown.

Serve with the spiced potatoes, masala sauce, rice and naan bread.

up in a house where mum’s specials were lasagne, spag bol and salads, garlic bread – not ready meals. As a kid in Whitley Bay there was always the lure of fish and chips on the seafront – something Mr Pardew wouldn’t approve of on today’s training regime.

Bob Arora owns Sachins, Forth Banks, Newcastle. www.sachins.co.uk

37

Veg patch with Karen Phillips After such a late start to the season it’s time to play catch up but don’t forget to make time to relax with a glass of something cold whilst enjoying the fruits of your labours Upcoming events @Widehaugh House Wed 5th June Grow your Own Cut Flowers

Gooseberries - one customer was caught hiding in the kitchen eating gooseberry & elderflower jam straight from the jar Rich Pickings....

Dwarf Early Pea ‘Junos’: whether eaten raw from the pod or thrown into risottos, speed is of the essence. The sugar content is what makes peas taste so sweet but plants can’t store carbohydrate as sugar and once picked start turning it into starch; hence why, half an hour after picking, those uneaten peas no longer taste so sweet.

Lettuces: our daily salads have never been so colourful with Crisp Mint, Flashy Butter Oak, Really Red Deer Tongue and Emerald Oak sharing the salad bowl.

Wizard Field Beans: these smaller and more robust relatives of broad beans produce smaller beans (less need to skin) but in greater quantity so it’s great for the smaller plot. Surely the name alone may inspire many a reluctant child to eat some veg.

Baby Veg: an appetiser of stumpy carrots, breakfast radishes, ‘Tom Thumb’ lettuce, all served alongside garlic aioli has proved most popular with the early evening beer.

Five-a-day has never been so easy!

Asparagus: the late spring has lengthened the season of this superb English vegetable. Delicious simply griddled and glistening with butter and fresh parmesan or try my two all-time favourite ways of enjoying asparagus: • as a canapé, wrapped in parma ham and served hot within a crisp pastry shell • as a side dish served as part of our gardening course lunches courtesy of ‘Papaya’: steamed and topped with chopped eggs and truffle oil.

I am slathering just writing about it.

Jobs outside....

Heed the old adage: ‘one day in June is worth two in July’ and get sowing.

Florence Fennel: You may have guessed

38

that I’m a lover of cookery books so imagine my delight when reading a recipe for fennel in Anna del Conte’s superb Italian cookbook: Amaretto, Apple Cake & Artichokes, that had the following quote: ‘It is said that serpents are very fond of fennel, and that after feeding on this plant they do not get any older.’ Forget botox!

I’m now sowing lots of Florence fennel this month. Later sowings are less likely to bolt as long as they are kept well-watered. I may have to get my photo renewed after this summer to reflect my eternal youth!

Red Celery: this is ready to plant out now in blocks and I can’t wait to try it. In my sandy soil it will need quite a lot of feeding but on clay soils it should flourish without much attention.

Chinese Stem Broccoli (kaai laan): like Choy Sum, which we’ve grown in the past, it is the young flower shoots that get eaten in stir-fries with chicken or prawns.

It’s reputedly an easy-grower and a sowing now will provide a plentiful supply into autumn.

Jobs in the greenhouse....

Water, water, water... and ventilate. The optimal temperature in the greenhouse during daylight hours is 24 degrees. If the greenhouse exceeds this temperature apply ‘coolglass’ to the windows to provide shading and remember the age-old technique of damping down i.e. wetting the floor, benches etc to increase the humidity.

Keep the vents open at night.

The tomatoes, chillies, peppers, aubergines and tomatillos are laden with a lovely crop that will gradually ripen over summer. The peppers and aubergines are grown in large pots and need to be restricted to about five fruits to each plant to ensure a small crop of large fruits rather than a large crop of very small fruits. Weekly feeding

with a proprietary tomato food, or homemade liquid comfrey manure, is essential to ensure a long cropping period.

Gooseberries: Stereotypical of the English, this fruit is self-effacing and doesn’t shout from the rooftops but when cooked well it is simply sublime: • Gooseberry and elderflower jam is a delicious strawberry-blush coloured preserve; as one of my customers told me ‘my husband caught me hiding in the kitchen eating it straight from the jar with a spoon!’

• Gooseberry mint jelly: even green gooseberries are magically transformed into this clear pink jelly that is perfect served with roast lamb • Gooseberry curd: pale peach in colour and delicious; I don’t even bother hiding when I eat this with a spoon.

• Gooseberry crumble ice cream is still one of my kids’ favourites.

Gooseberries come in green or red varieties; the red are sweet enough to eat raw whilst the green need to be cooked, unless you have a penchant for lip-tingling sour fruits! They are really easy to grow, but the only things they are susceptible to is American Mildew which causes white mould on the leaves and fruit and Gooseberry Sawfly whose caterpillars can strip the leaves off a bush in a day. The former is controlled by planting a resistant variety or ensuring that the bush gets lots of water in spring and the latter is simply controlled by picking off the caterpillars.

Looking ahead....

We’ll be hopefully drowning under a bumper fruit harvest, tasting tomatillos for the first time, and deliberating on the best vegetables to grow when space is at a premium.

Tubs of tulips, goblets of gladioli and buckets full of blooms - this course provides all the info needed to start growing your own cut flowers at home or on an allotment. The course culminates in a demonstration by a local florist of practical ways to showcase your wonderful harvest.

Time: 10am – 3.30pm. Including morning coffee/cakes and a 2-course lunch. £75

Wed 12 June The Scented Garden From the spicy citrus scent of witchhazel on a winter’s day to the powder-puff perfume of oldfashioned roses; via the black pepper aroma of moss roses rubbed between the fingertips and the woody undertones of freshly cut Choisya; past the grey-leaved shrub with flowers smelling of pineapple, to the fragrant vase of sweet box in the hallway, with careful plant selection even the smallest garden can provide scent through the year.

Time: 10am-3.30pm Including morning coffee and 2-course lunch. £75

Fri 21 June It’s Barbie Time!

The sun is shining and the beer is cooling - it must be BBQ time.

Stuck with sausages and bored of burgers? There is more to BBQs than a hastily skewered kebab. Join us and learn to BBQ with confidence under the careful guidance of chef Andy Snell. He’s Antipodean you know - I think they learn to BBQ as part of their education!

Time: 10.30 - 2.30pm culminating in a BBQ extravaganza. £80

Wed 26 June Summer Party Flowers Join us for this one-day workshop with Hannah Price, The Wildflower Florist, and uncover the secrets of floral arrangements: stunning table centres, simple place settings; cute corsages, the list goes on. Depart with your handmade arrangements.

Time: 10am-4pm including morning coffee, 2-course lunch, and all materials. £95 For full details of all courses visit: www.widehaughhouse.co.uk

MAY/JUN13

Year” e h T of ds. ears uranotr four consecuteivrreioyt Flavours Awar a t s e “R ds f he H

r ers orsfof HambletonwApwroaud sponsors of t n n i W are no Flavou 0. We at the d 201 09 an

8, 20 7, 200

200

GOURMET NIGHT SPECIAL

CHAMPAGNE & SPARKLING WINE TASTING

Sparkling wine & petit fours in your room upon arrival.

3 course dinner, bed and breakfast.

Friday 7th June & Friday 28th June As this is one of our most popular evenings, we actually hold two of these evenings to ensure everyone gets to attend! We’ll look at how you put the sparkle in sparkling and the different styles of sparkling wine produced around the world. Fancy trying bubbles from Tasmania?!

£129-£159

£ 49.95

N.B. Gourmet Nights are available Monday to Saturday.

Dates of exception apply. Choice of either Restaurant or Brasserie is dependant on day & availability.

Wine Tasting, Dinner, Bed & Breakfast.

Packages available from £165 - £195

www.facebook.com/ChaptersHotel

www.twitter.com/ChaptersHotel

MONDAY - SATURDAY 11.30am - 2.30pm & 6.30pm - 10.30pm | SUNDAY - 12.00pm - 4.30pm

Summer Delights from Rockliffe Hall Five star Rockliffe Hall in Hurworth, County Durham is synonymous with luxury, stunning surroundings and award-winning food.

This spring and summer, sample the delights of the enticing new menus throughout Rockliffe Hall’s three bespoke restaurants, each boasting magnificent views to the golf course and estate around.

Enjoy lunch, Afternoon Tea or evening meal in the triple AA Rosette restaurant The Orangery; a popular foodie hotspot.

For brunch, tempting meze platters or relaxed á la carte dishes, The Brasserie is the ideal destination, or for tasty steaks and Seafood dishes, The Clubhouse Grill menu features a delicious selection to choose from; and if the weather permits, why not enjoy a refreshing cocktail or two on the terrace!

Rockliffe Hall... a taste for life.

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

MAY/JUN13

39

Cook’s tour Two of the region’s best-known food folk are off to Oz

Stacie Stewart Are campfires on your mind? If you’ve got kids or are just a jolly glamper then this indulgent recipe is one big sugar-rush of pleasure.

A s’more is a traditional nighttime campfire treat popular in the US. Essentially they are roasted marshmallow and a layer of chocolate sandwiched between two pieces of biscuit – so good that cries of “can I have s’more” gave them their name!

They’ve even got a national day in America - August 10. Couldn’t see that happening to the Victoria sponge could you?

Double chocolate s’mores cookies When you love your job and your work mates are actually more like a second family, then handing in your notice can get pretty emotional. Two people who know exactly how that feels are 21 Hospitality Group’s Clare Armstrong and Bastiaan Hogelucht who are not only leaving their jobs but are off to enjoy pastures new, living in Australia.

Clare, who has led the pastry team at Terry Laybourne’s 21 Hospitality Group for the last 13 years, is looking forward to the challenges such a big move can bring. However, she admits it’s the people of the North-east and, in particular, her colleagues that she will miss the most. Likewise, Café 21 manager, Bastiaan, will be sad to leave his colleagues and regular customers, whom he regards as good friends. For Café 21 the change represents the latest phase in the ongoing development of one of the region’s most successful restaurants. Nothing is left to chance and succession planning is one of the keys to its continued success. Clare is succeeded by Helen Doyle, her protégé at Café 21 for the past five years; Nick Shottel, who has worked alongside Terry for more than 25 years, will ensure there’s always a welcoming and familiar face for customers at Café 21.

Terry says: “The move represents a great opportunity for Clare and Bastiaan and although I’m terribly, terribly sad to see them go, I feel privileged to have been able to work with them both for more than a decade. They have made a huge contribution to the development of our restaurants, our people and to the North-east food scene in general; fortunately their skills have been passed on to the next generation. Nothing stands still.

“In Helen we have a highly gifted successor, full of bright youthful ideas and of course Nick has, for 25 years, been the public face of the business. It’s nice to have him back at

I’ll be working to develop more artisan and luxury breads - it’s a small bakery so I’d like to help them grow the sharp end doing what he does best.”

For Clare and Bastiaan, who have an eight-year-old son Louis, Newcastle was always planned to be a temporary home. Clare, 39, grew up in Newcastle’s West End before setting off to pursue her career dreams of becoming a top pastry chef. She met Bastiaan, from Holland, while they were working on Seabourn’s luxury cruise liners out of New York. Clare explained: “We met 18 years ago and after working on the cruises we went to Amsterdam where I worked for Albert Roux at the Grand while Bastiaan took a front-of-house job in the city. We then went to Australia on a holiday visa for one year, which turned into three – we loved the place and travelled and worked our way around to see as much of the country.

“We came back to Newcastle because my mam wasn’t well and then we had Louis. But we feel now is the right time to go back to Australia. It’s always been our plan.”

Clare will take on a head pastry role at a local bakery in Mandura on the outskirts of Perth, where they have already found a home.

She said: “I’ll be working to develop more artisan and luxury breads. It’s a very small bakery with just a couple of shops so I’d like to help them to establish an online retail area, like we have at 21 Hospitality Group.

Bastiaan, also 39, plans on pursuing a complete career change involving his biggest passion - football. He wants to enjoy life outdoors coaching football and has already achieved his FA Level 1 Coaching qualification.

He said: “It’s something I’ve always wanted to do. But the move is not just an opportunity for me to have a more active life, Australia will be a great place for Louis to grow up and I can’t wait to go swimming with him, play football and cycle.”

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Ingredients Makes 24 small cookies 225g butter 330g caster sugar 2 eggs 250g plain flour 2 tsp baking powder 1 tsp baking soda 70g cocoa powder (not the hot chocolate stuff, proper cocoa powder) 150g any kind of chocolate chips, it’s essential you get chocolate chips as they have stabiliser in them to stop them from completely melting in the oven.

200g milk chocolate melted Approx 12 large marshmallows halved

Method Pre-heat the oven to 180C/gas mark 4 Grease a baking tray or two if you don’t have a large enough one for 24 cookies.

Beat the butter until light and fluffy - a minute or so.

Add the sugar until all incorporated.

Scrape down the bowl to ensure all the ingredients are combined.

Beat in the eggs one at a time adding 1tbsp of flour from your weighed flour after each egg to keep the mixture smooth.

Sieve the remaining flour and baking powder, bicarbonate of soda and cocoa then mix with the chocolate chips.

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the butter/ sugar/ egg mixture.

Scrape the bowl down again to ensure everything is evenly mixed then give the mix one final stir to ensure everything is combined.

The mix will be quite dry, this is exact what you want as you have to take heaped teaspoons of the mix and roll into balls.

Once all your balls are rolled pop them on your baking tray, spaced a few inches apart as they will spread.

Pat the cookie balls flat slightly and bake for 8 minutes.

Once the cookies come out of the oven, drizzle them with melted chocolate and place the marshmallows cut side down on top of each baked cookie. Place under a hot grill for a minute or so until slightly burnished and golden.

Transfer to a wire rack to cool and then transfer to a biscuit tin or Tupperware.

MAY/JUN13

mix it

Drink

With George Liddle

with Robin Winterschladen

You can’t have failed to notice the vibe for all things Gatsby at the moment so with this in mind, here’s our shot at some jazz-age mixing

With Father’s Day coming up on June 16, for a special gift why not consider a quality bottle of malt whisky, tawny port or Caribbean rum?

GLEN GARIOCH HIGHLAND SINGLE MALT WHISKY Glen Garioch, founded in 1797, is one of Scotland’s oldest distilleries and produces only non-peated malt whiskies with distinctive house characteristics of honey sweetness, hints of heather and just a touch of spice.

Glen Garioch 1797 Founder’s Reserve Single Malt Whisky Normal Price £32 Offer Price £27 Characterised by sweet vanilla and butterscotch, fresh green fruits and citrus flavours.

Glen Garioch 12 Year Old Single Malt Whisky £38 The Glen Garioch 12 Year Old gains its distinctive attributes from maturation in American Bourbon and Spanish Sherry casks. Flavours of fresh heather, rich poached pears and the sweetness of malted barley with just a hint of oak give it a long and memorable finish.

GRAHAM’S PORT W & J Graham is one of the most famous names in the port trade and has long been synonymous with the greatest vintage ports.

Graham’s 20 year old Aged Tawny Port £37 Graham’s Aged Tawny ports require great skill from the winemaker, learnt from many years of experience. It is essential to strike the correct balance between the delicacy and elegance from prolonged ageing in seasoned oak casks and the rich fruit quality which gives these old tawnies their structure, freshness and longevity. They have a characteristic “nutty” quality and mature, honeyed fruit flavours.

PLANTATION BARBADOS RUM Rum started life in the 17th century as a by product of sugar, when plantation owners in the Caribbean realized they could maximize their profits by distilling the thick molasses left over when sugar had been crystalized. Today molasses remains the base for most rum.

The Plantation rum collection comprises six different rums, providing a wonderful introduction to the traditions of the Caribbean. They are produced in small distilleries and then aged for a number of years in oak barrels in warm Caribbean cellars then aged in Cognac casks, giving the rum a soft and balanced finish.

Plantation Barbados Grande Reserve 5 Year Old Rum £25 This rum, the flagship rum of the Plantation range, is a blend of pot and column still rums aged between 5 and 8 years. It is beautifully balanced with coconut, vanilla and caramel flavours and a seductively sweet finish with notes of Cognac from its 6 months secondary ageing in France. This is an excellent rum for cocktails, or mixed with ginger beer, ice and lime.

Plantation Barbados XO 20th Anniversary Rum £45 This multi award winning rum is “double aged”, first in ex-Bourbon casks for 10 to 12 years in Barbados followed by a further 12 to 18 months in ex-Grande Champagne Cognac casks in France. This produces a full bodied sipping rum with flavours of vanilla, ripe banana, sugar cane and toasted coconut.

Robin Winterschladen is Wine Buyer for the Wine Shop at Fenwick Newcastle.

Enjoy great local food and stunning panoramic views at BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art’s iconic rooftop restaurant

All that Jazz cocktail Recipe 4 6 1 tsp 5ml

Method

fresh lime wedges mint leaves, sugar syrup. non-alcoholic Blue Curacao Lime

Muddle and crush these ingredients, pour into a highball glass, add 25ml of your preferred spirit (goes really well with gin or vodka). Add two scoops of crushed ice, top up with soda. Float 5mls of non-alcoholic Blue Curacao to the top of the drink.

Garnish with fresh lime, mint and straws.

George is restaurant manager at Hotel Indigo, Newcastle

GRILL Mondays closed (except bank holidays) Tue - fri open 12pm - 3pm 6pm - 9.30pm Weekends open 12pm - 9.30pm

BAR Mondays closed (except bank holidays) Tue - sun open 12pm - 11pm

NOW TAKING BOOKINGS We are Southbank Grill, the house of meaty treats, situated on the beautiful Gateshead Quayside.

Purveyors of fine grilled foods, we pride ourselves in offering our customers the best cuts of British meat on the Tyne.

From mouthwatering steaks and fiery chicken wings to hush puppies with maple syrup, we cater for all, if meats on your menu... join us for a delicious night out of the ordinary.

See what’s been cooking in our kitchen and taste one of the delights from our fine menu.

Fancy a challenge? Dare you take on the Mega Southbank Burger or Suicide wing challenge?

Dare you take on the Southbank challenges to claim your place on the wall of fame? Or perhaps, for those of you with smaller appetites, an aperitif in our swanky upstairs bar will be right up your street?

Six, 6th floor, BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art 0191 440 4948 • eat@sixbaltic.com • www.sixbaltic.com Opening Hours Monday to Thursday: 12–2:30pm and 5:30–9:30pm, Friday and Saturday: 12–2:30pm and 5:30–10pm, Sunday: 12pm – 4pm

MAY/JUN13

41

IN A FLAP

YOUR SUMMER DRESSING UP DAYS DEMAND THE SEASON’S MOST STRIKING STYLE INFLUENCE - A TOUCH OF GATSBY

DAPPER DARLINGS Cream silk-blend Alussa blazer By Malene Birger, £324, www.havetolove.com Headpiece, price on request, the Libertarian www.thelibertarian.co.uk

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MAY/JUN13

LIVE TO SHOP WITH WENDY GIBSON

This month it’s a case of heading for the country and shaping up for the beach I hold my hand up. I am a country girl. Born and bred!

But when it comes to shopping – for me the city has always held the greatest allure.

Until now. Not sure if it’s a sign of getting older but on a weekend, sometimes it’s just nice to potter around places close to home and know you’re supporting local business.

Corbridge has always been a pretty village but it’s increasingly becoming a shopping destination.

One of the newest shops is Alex Clarke, with a well-established business in Stanhope, the Lime Tree Gallery, her new shop is now a welcome addition to Corbridge.

Her distinctive cards are extremely well priced and she is already attracting a new and loyal Tyne Valley following. Her brand new business is a real Aladdin’s cave of gift ideas, with jewellery, paintings and quirky products for the home.

A stone’s throw away you’ll find affordable and bespoke jewellery from Kirsty Taylor who’s also doing great trade in bespoke wedding rings, and presents for bridesmaids.

Kelvin Mackenzie raved about Corbridge, a year or so ago, when he visited – and one of the things that most impressed him, was the shoe shop, of all things! Finale sources great shoes from round the world. A mother-and-daughter business, there’s now a website so you can even shop Corbridge style from home – www.finaleshoes.co.uk On the same street you’ll find gorgeous ideas for the home in Acanthus – with throws, cushions, and pretty cabinets and tables. And right opposite – one of Corbridge’s most established and best-loved businesses, JF Walton, the kitchen and hardware shop – where arguably you may even be able to order fork handles and four candles!

There are quirky designer-inspired decorations for the house too at outstanding prices.

I bought some pretty coloured glass jar candle holders – very Elle Deco – but at just a few pounds each.

And finally on the decor front, look out for newby Pip and Lewis, interior designers of Stocksfield, who are opening in Corbridge, stocking all favourites including Farrow and Ball.

Staying on the country theme, Stanhope has just attracted one of Darlington’s biggest names there, in the shape of Joseph M. So you’ll now find fashionista favourite Matthew Williamson, beautiful new-season pretty lace dresses from Alice Temperley, and the popular Beck Sondergaard scarves. As well as one of the favourite labels of the Duchess of Cambridge, Issa. Plus, brand new this season, Vivienne Westwood with sharply cut shirts and trousers and even the iconic Vivienne Westwood shoes. So you can pick from high fashion and a pair of Hunter wellies at the same time.

As ever, like its well-established sister shop on Grange Road, in Darlington, it has owner Pat’s magic touch and will surely be a must-go stopping off point if you’re visiting Stanhope this summer.

Finally – to help with that exercise and get you beach-ready for summer, I decided, after reading all the hype, to check out some of the Mama Mio range of tightening firming body products which received five-star reviews in the press.

The magic box contains a tightening, plumping and firming gel, followed by a fat-busting cream. Use for thirty days, and do the simple four-minute exercises they recommend – you can do them sitting down or standing in a queue!

It’s all about personal experience, but for me the results are good enough to have decided to commit and order a second pack! Also in the Mama Mio stable –with similarly good feedback, and celeb following, are the Boot Camp for Butts, and Boot Camp for Boobs.

With summer and the beach approaching think about sensible diet and exercise but give yourself a helping hand with these products.

So whether you’re doing town or country, fashionistas, happy shopping, and see you next time!

Don’t Compromise on Style St Thomas St., Sunniside, Sunderland, SR1 1NW 0191 5108126

As well as being a shopping supremo, shoe-a-holic and general lover of all things luxe, Wendy Gibson is a broadcaster, presenter and event host in the North East

MAY/JUN13

Durham Rd., East Herrington, Sunderland, SR1 1NW 0191 5110288

www.redssalons.com 43

IN A FLAP

Cream lace and organza Serihia dress, By Malene Birger, ÂŁ289, Have to Love www.havetolove.com Lace clutch Darling, ÂŁ42, Van Mildert www.vanmildert.com Headpiece as before, The Libertarian

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MAY/JUN13

Blue sequin evening dress, ÂŁ199, Fenwick, Newcastle Headpiece as before, The Libertarian

MAY/JUN13

45

IN A FLAP

Max Mara silk printed dress, ÂŁ399, Fenwick, Newcastle Headpiece as before, The Libertarian

46

MAY/JUN13

NEW SUMMER COLLECTIONS NOW INSTORE AND ONLINE

MICHAEL KORS TRAVEL TOTE BAG £260

RAY-BAN HAVANA CLUBMASTER £125

MEN’S LOAKE SHOES £205

MICHAEL KORS THONG SANDAL £125

OTHER EXCLUSIVE BRANDS - FOR HIM

OTHER EXCLUSIVE BRANDS - FOR HER

ARMANI JEANS - BOSS ACCESSORIES - BOSS BLACK CASUAL - BOSS BLACK LABEL BOSS BODYWEAR - BOSS GREEN LABEL - BOSS ORANGE - ETON SHIRTS PAUL SMITH ACCESSORIES - PAUL SMITH JEANS - PAUL SMITH SHOES POLO RALPH LAUREN - PS PAUL SMITH - REMUS UOMO - VIVIENNE WESTWOOD

BERNSHAW - BETTY BARCLAY - BOSS BLACK LABEL - BOSS ORANGE BOSS GREEN LABEL - FROCK ART - DENIM AND SUPPLY RALPH LAUREN - DKNY FENN WRIGHT MANSON - OUI MOMENTS - PAUL SMITH ACCESSORIES PAUL SMITH BLACK LABEL - PAUL BY PAUL SMITH - PAUL SMITH SHOES VIVIENNE WESTWOOD - UGG BOOTS - MICHAEL KORS - TED BAKER - VERA MONT

www.thehousedesignerwear.co.uk 69 THE HIGH STREET, YARM TEL: 01642 790852

MAY/JUN13

MONDAY TO FRIDAY 9.30-5.30 SATURDAY 9.00-5.30 SUNDAY 10:30-4:30

47

IN A FLAP

Long Pirouette dress, Alice by Temperley, £495, www.vanmildert.co.uk Brela shoes, LK Bennett, £150, Fenwick, Newcastle Headpiece, price on request, The Libertarian. www.thelibertarian.co.uk

48

MAY/JUN13

IN A FLAP

TREND WATCH WITH CATHERINE NEWTON

Denim drop-waist pleated dress, Sportmax, £175, Fenwick Bruton Heels, £185, LK Bennett, Fenwick, Newcastle Headpiece, stylist’s own

Although fashion is trending towards separates at the moment, for more formal occasions a dress will always be key. Whether it’s a wedding, a prom, a day at the races or an exotic holiday there are plenty of great reasons to be on the look out for an elegant new dress.

One of this season’s hottest trends is botanical print.

From Sixties-style daisies to meadow poppies and delicate roses, this floral theme has dominated the high street this spring. If you have a summer wedding or garden party coming up, look at larger prints and softer tones to evoke a sense of true British romanticism.

Designers such as Valentino and Vivienne Westwood have created some beautiful occasionwear inspired by this ideal. One of my favourites has to be the botanical dress from Red Valentino (Fenwick: £599, pictured). With its full skirt, vibrant print and classic bow detail, it is the essence of summertime elegance.

For something more minimal try a block colour in the soft hues of sugary pastels. Feminine and flattering, lemon yellows and sorbet pinks are the colours of this season.

Tara Jarmon’s structured Parisian styling lends itself beautifully to this palette and her SS13 collection features a range of fit and flare dresses in these candy colours.

Wear Jarmon’s simple knee-length Trapezium dress in coral with nude courts for a refreshing approach to spring sophistication.

The little black dress has taken a back seat this season and it’s now all about the little white dress. Whether it’s a Sportmax mini or a Tara Jarmon shift, white is the chic, go-to colour for the warmer months. If you’re feeling brave (and bronzed) go bare-legged with killer heels, or for an edgier look pair your LWD with black tights. For a versatile LWD turn to the Fenn Wright Manson Felice dress (Fenwick: £249, pictured). This lace overlay shift dress is an exquisite way to work SS13’s white trend.

Even in the peak of British summer-time a cover-up can be necessary, hence the current trend towards two-piece occasionwear. A dress and overcoat pairing provides an elegant touch and a timeless finish and this season the fashion houses have reinvented the look with a focus on simplicity and clean lines. Tara Jarmon’s collection features a modern take on Audrey Hepburn’s iconic style.

Jarmon’s Ottoman overcoat in white (Fenwick: £335) is the perfect option for a spring cover-up.

If you need help putting your occasionwear wardrobe together this season book into the Fenwick Personal Shopping Suite and relax with a glass of fizz while an expert stylist does all the hard work for you!

Credits: Photography: Kevin Gibson www.kgphotographyco.uk Model: Elizabeth Coates www.tyneteesmodels.com Styling: Fiona McLain Hair & Make-up: Victoria Forshaw www.pinspetalsandpowder.co.uk Venue: Jesmond Dene House Hotel, Newcastle www.jesmonddenehousehotel.co.uk Catherine Newton is Head of Womenswear at Fenwick, Newcastle

MAY/JUN13

49

MAN PERM ALERT!

MAN SIZE

IN THE PINK >> Pink Debonair suit by Ted Baker.

Jacket, £275, trousers, £125, www.tedbaker.com or take a trip to Psyche, Middlesbrough to shop the range. www.psyche.co.uk

WITH MARSHALL HALL

During this year’s awards season, Bradley Cooper mentioned in a BAFTA’s red carpet interview that he recently got a perm for a screen test. Well, looks like that film project is underway, because he was spotted outside of his trailer in Boston with a head full of pale-pink micro rollers. In case he’s feeling a little curly insecurity, he needn’t: the man-perm is becoming on of my most popular treatments in salon.

When I discuss this treatment at work, many of my clients recoil: images of Kevin Keegan’s bouncy curls are often the first things into a man’s head when it comes to curling treatments. However, bear with me: a subtle perm is often the ideal way to add texture to straight hair, and you don’t have to leave the salon with a wet-look mullet!

Many of this season’s styles rely on one thing: plenty of volume up top. Whether it’s something super-slick or more undone, the short back and sides is the most popular choice amongst my clients this year. So, for guys who are blessed with super-straight follicles, a light perm allows the hair to sit comfortably and is, believe it or not, much easier to style.

If I’m beginning to convert you to curls, it’s time for a word of warning: perms, like colouring, are a chemical process, which physically change the structure of the hair.

Don’t be tempted to go somewhere that seems cheap: a badly done perm – or even worse, wrecked hair – will cost an awful lot to put right!

For a long-lasting finish, aftercare is crucial. If your better half has ever made you sit through Legally Blonde, you’ll already know that the first rule of after-care when getting a perm is not to wash your hair for at least 24 hours.

After a perming treatment, the hair is fragile, and it needs time to adjust to the chemicals used in the process. If you’re wanting to get rid of that bed head in the meantime, use water, but make sure not to wash the hair for a day or two- you’ll be glad of it in the long run!

When those 24 hours are up, be sure to use a shampoo that’s designed for chemically treated hair. These shampoos are specially formulated to work with the chemicals used in the perming process, and won’t create any adverse effects. Be aware that strong shampoos have ingredients that can be too harsh on your fragile hair.

Although it’ll involve a trip to a salon, buying a dedicated shampoo will be worth it: they’re made with more gentle ingredients that will cleanse your hair without drying it out.

If you’re wanting a little texture, come down to the salon and have a chat with me about your options: you may be one of the increasing number of men who have turned to the perm to offer real results. And, once you’re on the dark side, you’ll never want to go back!

PASTELS FOR BOYS >> We love the way boys have come over all pink and romantic for the summer.

Weddings, race-days, summer soirees, it’s the chaps who’ll be pulling out the pastels. A beard keeps it real

<< SOFTY SOCKS Snowdrop socks, £16.99, www.julesb.co.uk

TIE ME UP >> Daisy tie, £89.99, www.julesb.co.uk

<< SWEET SNIFFS To talk about grooming feel free to contact Marshall on 0191 511 0288. Reds, East Herrington, Sunderland www.redshairandbeauty.com

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Blue floral hanky, £34.99, www.julesb.co.uk

MAY/JUN13

INSPIRATION FOR FATHER’S DAY

>> Moncler Gamme Bleu Wool Jacket, £1,195, www.harveynichols.com

>> Nixon Sentry SS Grand Prix Watch, £165, www.gift-library.com

>> Roberts retro-style DAB radio, £159.95, available on TV and Audio in Fenwick, Newcastle

>> Ted Baker Satchel, £209, www.tedbaker.com

>> Paolo Vandini Brown Wing Tip Leather Shoes, £78.99, www.psyche.co.uk

CLASSIC DAD >>

>> Reiss Fedora, £39, www.reiss.com

>> Paul Smith Black Maharam Stripe Holdall, £325, www.paulsmith.co.uk

<< COOL DAD

>> Polo Ralph Lauren Grey Zale Hi Top Canvas Trainers, £83.99, www.psyche.co.uk

>> Ted Baker Wayfarer Sunglasses, £149, www.tedbaker.com

>> Offshore Limited Commando Prestige in Gold, £495, www.gift-library.com

COSY DAD >>

>> Barbour Men’s Saddlemoor Quilted Jacket, £148.99, www.julesb.co.uk

MAY/JUN13

>> Otis Batterbee Medium Grand Tour Wash Bag, £75, www.gift-library.com

>> Polo Ralph Lauren Grey Espadrilles, £53.99, www.psyche.co.uk

>> Stetson Fur Boulder Trapper Hat, £74.99, www.julesb.co.uk

>> Hugo Boss Black and Bronze Watch, £398.99, www.psyche.co.uk

51

ON THE FRINGE

Cream of the crop

The past two months have been a whirlwind for us - we’re just back from a global hair adventure which began with a four-week tour of Australia - totally amazing.

Then it was off to Milan, Amsterdam and finished off with a tour of the UK and Ireland. Boy, we’ve been busy.

Although hair trends and fashion differ from place to place it’s always good to see how other countries are doing it, and I must say we were pretty impressed with the level of style people had in these places.

Cool cuts and strong colours seem to have caught on around the globe. A must-try look this summer is inspired by Anne Hathaway’s role in Les Mis, although it owes more to the way it looks now rather than the

butchered home-cut that she wears on screen, I really can’t see even the fashionistas rocking that style!

So, think more along the lines of top heavy beautiful bowl cuts with strong outlines and soft edges. Colour plays an integral part, adding personality to the cut and allowing you to show personal style.

In terms of summer colour trends, there really is a lot of choice. Bold monochromatic colours are super cool in either vibrant or pastel shades.

Alternatively, rich brunettes with some subtle surface colour in gold and mocha blonde can also look totally stunning and on-trend for summer.

Aftercare and condition is vital to keeping your colour looking summer fresh, and with

52

the use of sun protection hair products you can avoid colour fade and dry ends by following a simple regime in the sun.

Leave-in products are best to protect your hair, giving you ultimate protection.

Defense Ultime from Kerastase Soleil is a leave-in protection cream for rebellious colour-treated hair. The Elixir Ultime range will also protect your hair and double up as a beautifying oil to keep your hair looking amazing 24/7.

Happy holidays xx Michael Young and Gary Hooker run award-winning Hooker & Young, with six salons regionwide.

See www.hookerandyoung.co.uk for salon details.

MAY/JUN13

XXXXXXXX

CREATING BEAUTIFUL SMILES

CLEVELAND COSMETIC & DENTAL IMPLANT CLINIC • Cosmetic Dentistry • Dental Implants

Cleveland Cosmetic &

• Same Day Teeth • Smile Makeovers

Dental Impl ant Clinic creating beautiful smiles C l e v e l a n d C o s m e t i c & • Teeth Whitening • Multi National Award Winning Practice Greenfields House, Wellburn Road, Fairfield, Stockton-on-Tees TS19 7PP l a n t C l i n i c D e n t a l I m p creating beautiful smiles www.clevelandcosmetic.co.uk Telephone. 01642 570147 • Facsimile. 01642 570870 • Email. info@cdic.co.uk Greenfields House, Wellburn Road, Fairfield, Stockton-on-Tees TS19 7PP Telephone. 01642 570147 • Facsimile. 01642 570870 • Email. info@cdic.co.uk

www.clevelandcosmetic.co.uk

Prices from

£105 FEV ER SH A M A R MS HOTEL & V ER BENA SPA

per person per night Based on two adults sharing a Classic double room

The Feversham Arms Hotel is the perfect destination for a relaxing spa break. Enjoy our Sleep Stay & Spa package which includes: • Overnight Accommodation • Full Yorkshire Breakfast • 1 Express Treatment per person in the Verbena Spa (choice from Facial, Back Massage, Mini Manicure or Mini Pedicure) • Use of the tranquil Verbena Spa and Heated Outdoor Pool. From 3pm day of arrival to 11am day of departure

Enjoy a bulous spa experience MAY/JUN13

To find out more or to book your Sleep Stay & Spa package call us on 01439 770766 or email us at info@fevershamarmshotel.com

fevershamarmshotel.com Helmsley, North Yorkshire, YO62 5AG

Awarded by the AA

53

LUXE SUMMER LOOKS

BEAUTY WATCH WITH VICTORIA LEES

TOP TIPS FOR BEAUTY IN A HURRY Time is more precious than gold these days with everyone juggling jobs, families and plenty of responsibilities that leave very little time for an elaborate beauty regime. Fear not! My top tips for beauty in a hurry will keep you looking your best with minimal fuss and effort.

2) Serums - use serums containing AHAs or mild glycolic to gently exfoliate daily rather than scrubbing away twice a week. Complete Reform by Murad is an ideal addition to most people’s night routine. If you are prone to sensitive skin, however, enzyme-based exfoliants may be more suitable as they have a milder action, but still deliver great results.

3) Masks - when I recommend a skin-boosting mask to my clients, I can almost hear them thinking, “Yeah right!

You may have time to lay around with cucumber on your eyes, but I have PE kits to pack..!” So, my advice would be to pop a mask on while you pack the PE kits/ do the ironing/check your emails, it will work just the same or even find a mask that you can sleep in once a week to wake up with glowing, radiant skin.

4) Speedy mornings - my routine from wake up to makeup in 20 minutes is: - cleanse in shower with face wash - face serum - clean teeth - moisturise - get dressed - foundation on - breakfast - powder eyebrows - wash of light eye shadow on lid – mascara - blush - lip-gloss - DONE! By looking after my skin and having regular facials I can spend less time (and money) on foundations and concealing.

>> Tom Ford Brow Sculptor, £32, Fenwick, Newcastle

1) Look for multi-tasking products - there are some great cleansers out there that effectively remove eye makeup and cleanse the skin with no need for a tonic or toner. Sacred Nature Cleansing Milk is my go-to favourite when travelling as not only does it save time, it also saves space in my wash bag. For the boys, a cleansing wash that doubles as a shaving medium is another time-saver.

Brows have it!

After stealing the show at London Fashion Week, Cara Delevingne’s big and bushy eyebrows have taken the nation by storm. Tricks to get the look

>> Benefit Browzings Brow Shaping Kit £22.50, Fenwick, Newcastle

5) Use time wisely! You don’t have to wait till bedtime to do your night-time skincare, I normally use the time dinner is in the oven to whip upstairs and remove the day’s grime and makeup before nourishing with a great night cream, that way I can fall into bed later all fresh faced and ready for a great night’s sleep.

>> Laura Mercier Brow Definer, £16.50, SpaceNK, Newcastle

>> Benefit High Brow Glow A Luminous Brow Lifting Pencil, £14, as before Victoria is based at The Spa, Rockliffe Hall.

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MAY/JUN13

AWARD WINNING HAIRDRESSING

we love...

we style... ...milan

London, New York, Paris and Milan the fashion capitals of the world is where it all happens. Gary Hooker and Michael Young have taken the best of British hairdressing to a sell-out audience in Milan, launching the start of their European tour.

we share... we see... ...blondes

Blondes never go out of fashion.

Full head colour or multi-tonal highlights. Cool platinum blondes or warm honey tones; there is much versatility to this colour, which can be tailored to suit all skin tones.

...pre-holiday hair advice

As North Eastern Hairdresser of the Year, who best to share their top tip for pre-holiday hair than our very own Marcus King. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As with skin, hair needs TLC to keep it looking healthy.

It is essential that moisture is constantly replaced and Elixir Ultime from Kerastase is the perfect pre-holiday treat to get your hair ready for the Summer. With an oil for every hair type, you can add moisture, strength and hydrate your hair with radiance and shine.â&#x20AC;?

Darlington 01325 468 994 Gosforth 0191 217 0217 Jesmond 0191 281 6714 Wynyard 01740 644 690 www.hookerandyoung.co.uk facebook/hooker&young Twitter @hookerandyoung

FIRM UP

FITNESS! WITH LEILA BRAMWELL

Look hot this summer Summer’s on its way, and if the idea of baring flesh is sending you into hot flushes then try adding toning exercises to your cardio regime to get you looking good for summer.

The way I like to train people is to use many muscle groups in one go. The rule tends to be, the more muscles you use the more fat you are burning.

This programme is with hand weights (women 3 - 6kg/ men 5kg plus). Always keep abdominals pulled in and exhale on your effort.

• WEIGHTED LUNGES Hold weights by your side - step forwards with right leg. Left knee lowers to floor with your body weight through your right heel to keep pressure off knees.

Repeat 12 - 20 reps then swap legs.

• TRICEP EXTENSION Stand hip-width apart, soft knees. Hold both weights above your head, palms facing each other. Keeping elbows as close to your ears as possible bend elbows and take weights together behind your head and then back up straight. Repeat 12 - 20 reps.

• CLEAN AND PRESS See below for instructions.

• PLANK ROCK AND PRESS Start in full plank position. Hands directly under shoulders - body straight and do not dip in hips or raise hips. Roll forward onto your toes so your body weight is over your hands. Push back onto your heels to take body weight backwards and feel a stretch in your calves. Hover back over hands and do 1-5 push-ups. Repeat if you can without coming out of plank. If you need to rest put your knees down and stretch back then repeat 3 - 6 reps.

• BACK EXTENSION Always end by stretching and strengthening your back. There is no point having a fab toned body if your posture is bad or you have back pain.

Lie face down - place hands on your bottom palms down and shoulders drawn down your back. Lift up your chest keeping the nose facing the ground. Hold for three seconds and lower. Repeat 3 - 6 times.

CLEAN AND PRESS >> Stand hip width apart with weights by your side - squat with your body weight in your heels, making sure you don’t let your knees go forward over toes. Stand up tall and bend elbows and bring weights to shoulder height with palm facing forward. Lift weights above head by extending arms towards the ceiling.

Return to start position and repeat 12 - 20 reps.

>> Dress and coat, Coast

Beauty:update Weddings, graduations, race days and summer balls. Those moments when the cameras are out and you need a look to last.

Kristina Foster, a makeup artist in the North East specialises in special occasion, fashion and photographic make-up.

These are some of her secrets and summer hero products: >> If you have a big event looming have a few test runs > It’s best to try out a few different looks that you are happy and confident with. >> Take photos > With a camera, not the phone, then you’ll get an idea of how you will look in photos. >> Get some tips from beauty counter experts but be yourself > There’s nothing worse than getting your make-up done and feeling like someone else is looking back at you. >> Lippy is key > The only thing that you should need to touch up during the day, is your lip colour or gloss. >> Apply your eye makeup first > If you decide to do your own make-up then begin with your eye makeup. This ensures that any fallout from eyeshadow can be easily cleaned up with a cotton bud or cotton pad and eye make-up remover first without ruining your base makeup. >> Eye and face primers are a must-have for long-wear > They will help achieve a good even base for your make-up. They allow for smooth application and help the overall staying power of your makeup, which is key on the big day.

Heroes > Laura Mercier hydrating primer, MAC prep and prime and Estee Lauder’s illuminating primer. >> For oily skin > There are creams and sprays to help control oiliness.

Heroes > Urban Decay’s De Slick before and after makeup application for extra staying power. Laura Mercier do a great oil-free primer, as do Bare Minerals and Estee Lauder do a fabulous mattifying one. I also rate Shu Uemura’s UV Mousse. >> Steer clear of high SPFs > They don’t tend to photograph well and often make the skin appear paler than it should. >> Powder > Be sure to set your makeup. Try staying with powders that are lightweight and natural. Be careful not to over powder, you don’t want your makeup looking cakey.

Heroes > Shu Uemura and Laura Mercier translucent powders as they are milled very finely.

MAC’s Mineralise skin finish are lovely with a feather light finish which doesn’t completely mask your work. Use loose powders by dipping half your powder puff in the product, folding your puff in half and work the product into it. Give the puff a tap on the back of your hand to remove excess, then press and roll on to skin to set makeup. Brush off any excess with a powder brush.

In Health and Happiness Leila Bramwell www.shapingfutures.co.uk Pilates/Reformer and Fitness Studio, Durham

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>> Mascara > Keep mascara in place by very lightly powdering the lash line with a small amount of translucent powder and a clean eyeshadow brush. This will help prevent eye makeup from smudging. www.kfmakeup.co.uk 07792 575 886

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WE LOVE >>

Non surgical cosmetic treatments and acupuncture

Magnolia may be a no-no for walls but when it comes to fragrance it’s the business.

Two new fragrances with magnolia centre stage are Philosophy’s newest scent, Magnolia Blossom, from the ‘Field of Flowers’ collection, exclusive to John Lewis.

Spray fragrance is £32 and the shower gel, shampoo and bubble bath, £14.

Acqua di Parma’s Acqua Nobile Magnolia is a grown-up version, one of three new additions to the chic range. £78 from House of Fraser.

Facial aesthetics for men and women

PERFECTLY PINK >> For your very pastel days, Tom Ford’s super-girly and deeply lasting Chastity lip colour, £36, and Pink Crush nail lacquer, £25, at Fenwick, Newcastle.

Facial wrinkles and lines (Botox / Juvederm) R

R

Acupuncture Treatment for thread veins and excessive underarm sweating

<< SUN’S OUT! Bronzer days are here again – a chunky addition to the make-up case is Clarins’ shimmery summer compact, £30 on counter.

EYES RIGHT >> Be subtle, be bold, whatever your summer mood. Estee Lauder’s limited edition palette, £35 on counter now.

SUMMER SOULMATE >> Creme de la Mer has launched a summer sun care range, Soleil de la Mer. Lotions contain restorative ingredients and algaes from the sea known for their protective and enhancing properties. A face and body gradual tan, £65, gives an even, natural glow. Fenwick, Newcastle.

Treatment for facial hyper pigmentation

By Dr Nair And Dr Anu Free consultations for weight loss surgery

by Mr Balupuri (consultant surgeon) Reflexology, Massage & Aromatherapy by Karen Perriss Reiki Healing

by Davina Smith Waxing, Threading, Indian Head Massage, facials and nail treatments by Girija 01740 768 268 www.touch-ups.co.uk email: enquiries@touch-ups.co.uk 7 Fulthorpe Suite, Wynyard Park, Wynyard TS22 5SP

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SUPERGLAM SLEEPS

Shimmertime

...and the lounging is easy Arguably the most luxey hotel opening in the capital recently, The Bulgari aims to impress with a sprinkling of real gold dust. We paid an indulgent visit

If you like your spas with a shimmer of gold and the chance of a celeb lazing on the poolside lounger alongside then be seduced by a bit of Bulgari.

The seriously luxurious hotel in London’s Knightsbridge is a place that brings dazzle and drama in equal measure. Public lounges and personal suites are, like many things Italian, dark, moody and faintly intimidating.

The spa by comparison, in the depths of the building, is light, bright glamour itself with a 25m swimming pool and shimmering

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gold leaf vitality pool.

The hotel was one of the most anticipated London hotel openings last year and notably the first brand new luxury hotel built in the city for 40 years. It is in the heart of Knightsbridge, just a short walk from the doorsteps of Harrods, Harvey Nichols, Hyde Park and the Royal Albert Hall. Certainly it is not at the budget end of accommodation in the capital.

The spa with its bespoke yoga retreat has proved itself a hit with the likes of Rosie Huntington Whitely among others. It’s a very restful spot.

The space is marble, stone and glass and there’s a private spa suite featuring two treatment beds, dressing room with private bathroom, steam shower, private relaxation room, as well as an over-sized hydro massage tub with spectacular green onyx backdrop for personal pampering. You can book in with celebrity foot expert Margaret Dabbs and her specialist team of principal podiatrists or experience the Bodyism programme, overseen by celebrity personal trainer, James Duigan.

Clean and Lean Retreats set a blueprint for a personalised programme designed to

promote better health, increased energy and serenity and comes as a one-day, seven-day, 14-day or one-month programme.

The Bulgari name is synonymous with jewellery and luxurious fragrance so you waft about in surroundings that are the physical equivalent – understated, hushed and neat. Mahogany mixes with silver and mirrors but behind a calm entrance area where you can have afternoon tea there is an extravagant bar with starry crystal fittings and a real touch of glamour.

Here you can indulge in unique cocktails inspired by the Bulgari perfume range such

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Waiting to greet you in your room is a deconstructed rum baba - each element in a black glass container

THE TWO TOP NON –SURGICAL FACELIFTS

Caci Ultimate with the new Intensive Jowl Lift and the Endermolift as champagne and jasmine spritz. The classic Italian Bellini cocktail has been transformed into a range of bespoke Bulgari Bellinis, notably an unlikely-sounding carrot and lavender Bellini.

Rooms echo the attention to detail and Latin styling with dark wood furniture alongside crisp white linens and dramatic mink wallcoverings.

Waiting to greet you in the room is a deconstructed rum baba no less, each element in a black glass container – the shot of rum a mid-afternoon surprise!

Unsurprisingly the bathroom is filled with an abundance of take-me-home Bulgari toiletries and treats – with luxey mini bottles of fragrance on the pillow at turndown.

If sit back and chill is more your tempo, the hotel’s Sunday Brunch and Movie experience called La Dolce Domenica might be more restful. A Sunday brunch buffet or à la carte from 11.30am onwards is followed by a movie in the luxury, 47-seat cinema. Movies will include the latest box office hits and renowned classics such as La Dolce Vita, La Notte, Cinema Paradiso and Roman Holiday.

Doubles from £500 per night. www.bulgarihotels.com East Coast operates every day between the North East and King’s Cross. Book online at www.eastcoast.co.uk Advance fares from £29 standard, £88 first-class. Details on 0845 7225225

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CACI ULTIMATE This is the CACI ULTIMATE treatment for maximum lift and deep hydration.

WRINKLE COMB to plump out and soften deep lines, wrinkles and blemishes plus the added benefit of MICRODERMABRASION. Also Introducing the new INTENSIVE JOWL LIFT developed to specifically target muscle laxity around the jaw line.

Treatment starting from £30 (initial course required) ENDERMOLIFT Liftmassage by Endermologie® is a mechanical work out for the skin. It delivers micro-beats to stimulate your cells’ natural production of collagen and elastin. This anti-ageing technique redensifies the skin and erases signs of ageing without the use of electrical currents, injections or chemicals.

Treatment starts from £25 ( Initial Course is required.)

T 01642 782221

www.avitayarm.co.uk 22 HIGH STREET , YARM

INTEREST FREE CREDIT available

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ADVERTORIAL

Hot summer six

Pamper time in the spa, beauty treats and workouts to unleash the body beautiful will soon have you looking gorgeous and beach-ready massage and finishes with a radiant facial. Priced at £85 per person. Our manicure and pedicure area is always open so you can add a few finishing touches and also enjoy spending time in the heat experience – including saunarium, steam room, salt inhalation room, foot spa, outdoor heated pool and outdoor hot tub.

T: 01439 770766 www.fevershamarmshotel.com

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WYNYARD HALL SPA

Nestled peacefully on the edge of the lake, the Spa at Wynyard Hall is a sumptuous haven for those wanting to escape life’s hectic pace. It’s the perfect hideaway for those seeking special attention and an expert approach from their therapist – all in exclusive surroundings, with idyllic views to fortify the spirit. If you are looking for a special treat to enjoy with friends or you are keen to banish the aches from a stressful day at the office, let us lavish you with sheer indulgence. Choose something from our treatment list, or take advantage of our bespoke service and let us prepare a treatment plan just for you. Experience the ultimate in pure indulgence: the perfect blend of everybody’s favourites. Treatment starts off with a relaxing massage: the unique ‘thermal soothing’ massage will induce a deep level of relaxation and calm your mind. You will then enjoy an intensive booster Advanced Elemis Facial, specially adapted to suit your skin needs. As you are drifting away, your therapist will complete the experience with a luxury hand and foot treatment, designed to soften, nourish and revitalise your skin.

Tel 01740 644811 www.wynyardhall.co.uk

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FEVERSHAM ARMS HOTEL AND VERBENA SPA

A visit to the Feversham Arms Hotel is not complete without a treatment in the Verbena Spa. The award-winning spa has everything required for a relaxing retreat, offering a range of revolutionary treatments, as well as the space to escape the turbulence of everyday life for a couple of hours.

Elemis have helped the team to create a menu of signature treatments and packages, using the ever-advancing Elemis skin care technology which give outstanding results. There’s something for almost everyone – including men, couples and expectant mothers. Our newest ‘body experience’ exclusive to the Verbena Spa will stimulate your senses and allow you to enter a place of total reverie.

Face and Body Bliss, is a 90-minute unique three-in-one treatment inclusive of invigorating body scrub, hot stone

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THE SUN UNDONE FACIAL

Lighten, brighten and beautify this summer with a Sun Undone Infusion Facial

by Dr Murad at The Spa at Rockliffe hall.

This high-performance face treatment makes skin look radiant, youthful and supple, while minimising the look of pigmentation marks and sun damage.

Exposure to sunlight, smog, pollution and stress causes your skin to age prematurely.

Murad’s Environmental Shield® treatment and product line will help restore, renew and the Sun Undone facial works by a Vitamin C infusion, containing ascorbic acid and other antioxidants, which help prevent damage and repair the skin by stimulating the formation of collagen.

After cleansing, skin is analysed to identify any signs of damage so that the treatment can be targeted. Vitamin C intensive mask is then worked into the face, neck and back of the hands as stress is gently massaged away from the neck and shoulders as the mask soaks into the pores. The treatment continues with radiance-enhancing Vitamin C moisturiser with sun protection which is perfect to use at home. Sun Undone not only works to repair damage from the sun, it makes a perfect skin protection strategy before a holiday and even acts on damage caused by stress, pollution, drinking and smoking.

The Sun Undone 50-minute Facial is £70 at the Spa at Rockliffe Hall and Dr Murad home care products are available at the Spa Boutique.

Tel 01325 729999 www.rockliffehall.co.uk

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CHEMICAL PEELS AT TOUCH-UPS

Chemical peels help to rejuvenate the skin by removing the damaged outer layer and revealing the healthier and smoother skin underneath. It can be used for minor acne and blemishes. It is a simple way to improve the texture of skin without the use of any anaesthetic.

It is usually given in courses of 4-6 treatments, 1-2 weeks apart. If you are considering having a chemical peel treatment, we are happy to provide a free telephone consultation.

Tel 01740 768268 www.touch-ups.co.uk

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AVITA MEDI-SPA

Laser hair removal is a safe, virtually painless method of removing unwanted hair. It works by focusing a laser beam at the base of the hair follicle, halting hair growth. Laser hair removal is different to the Intense Pulsed Light system (IPL) which uses less powerful, diffused light waves. Laser hair removal can be used on any part of the body, including the most common problem areas: face, bikini area, legs and underarms.

Many professionals and celebrities choose laser hair removal as it is considered the highest quality, most safe and effective way to remove unwanted hair from visible areas.

For a free Laser Nurse consultation please call 01642 782221.

Test patch is required. www.avitayarm.co.uk Tel 01642 782221

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BOOTCAMP SPAIN

Join us at SHAPING FUTURES ON 7 - 14 September for a workout beneath the blue skies. It is a fat-busting 8.5 hours of training every day with luxe fitness expert Leila Bramwell. Bootcamp is set in a fantastic location in Spain using the unique combination of weight loss, fitness and pilates. Amazing results are guaranteed - at the most recent bootcamp, the average weight loss was one stone per person.

For more information see www.shapingfutures.co.uk, email Leila@shapingfutures.co.uk or call 07903 700856

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Spring into Summer in the Spa at Rockliffe Hall...

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It’s time to gently ease your mind, body (and skin) out of hibernation, and what a perfect excuse to indulge in one of our many Spa promotions at Rockliffe Hall, each designed to be as individual as you are...

CHEEKY MIDWEEKER SPA DAY

SPRING SPLENDOUR SPA DAY

CHILL OUT SPA SUNDAY

Available Tuesdays to Thursdays

Available until June 2013

Sunday 19th May 2013

Weekdays can be hectic, but this mid-week treat fits so neatly into your busy schedule, no-one need ever know you have indulged! Start the day with a delicious 2 course brunch in The Brasserie before enjoying use of all Spa and wellness facilities until 4pm.

From £70 per person

Using some of the most luxurious products, the Spring Splendour is an extremely flexible and carefully tailored treatment ritual. Enjoy a full day with access to all Spa and wellness facilities, a delicious two course lunch in The Brasserie and a 60 minute Spring Splendour Ritual of your choice.

From £110 per person

Relax and unwind with our ultimate ‘Chill Out’ day especially designed for your body, mind & spirit.

Your day includes an introductory meditation session, workshop, use of all Spa and wellness facilities, a two course lunch in The Brasserie a 45 minute holistic treatment. £95 per person

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

Cosmetic and General Dental Services at

DURHAM CITY SMILES...

We treat all our patients with COMPASSION. We are AWARE that this is not everyone’s favourite place, so at all times we try to RESPECT our patient’s wishes and fully involve them in all treatments decisions. And in everything we do we strive for EXCELLENCE in our practice, and our patient’s experience of it.

Graeme Dentith

Stuart Cox

by Graeme Dentith The Crossgate Centre, Crossgate, Durham DH1 4HF Tel 0191 384 4447 www.durhamcitysmiles.co.uk MAY/JUN13

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WORD’S OUT in association with

www.greatlook.co.uk

Character reference Bland and beige is so over when it comes to decorating our homes. Quirky finds and clever collecting are the way to pack your home with personality says North Yorkshire interiors expert and author Sally Coulthard 62

We seem to have turned a corner when it comes to making the most of our space at home.

Grown-up, glamorous, sharp and sleek is fine for some people but let’s face it, when a house is awash with the elements that make up family life, words like pristine and tidy don’t come into play.

After years of being told to de-clutter, it seems that clutter is making a comeback.

Only this time it is ordered clutter, if there’s such a thing.

Or call it character. Which is exactly what Sally Coulthard does in her latest interiors book, A Home of Your Own, subtitled, Creating Interiors with Character.

North Yorkshire-based Sally embraces the bumps and scratches of everyday living and incorporates the touchy-feely aspects of family life into decorating. Dad’s toy train collection – embrace it with a wall of its own. Those junk shop finds – cluster them for maximum effect.

Grandad’s old workboots, granny’s school

uniform; pay them some respect on a family memorabilia wall.

Says Sally: “As human beings we have an instinctive urge to mark our territory, to put our own stamp on our living space and to say, “This is mine!

“Every time we choose a paint colour, hang a picture or pick out a fabric we are

After years of being told to de-clutter it seems that clutter is making a comeback.

Only now it is in an orderly way

MAY/JUN13

communicating something to ourselves and to others. When we display a collection of teacups or trophies we are letting people know our interests, values and tastes.”

One of the homes featured in her book belongs to Sally’s friend, artist Sally Taylor who is based in Ryedale, North Yorkshire.

Sally’s home is a mid-twentieth century property that the author says: “Sparkles with personality thanks to such treasured finds as vintage mirrors, and flea-market chairs.”

It appears in the book alongside period properties, cosy cottages and eccentric buildings but very much reflects the current trend to the re-fashioning of kitsch collectables of the mid-century modern style.

But what is ‘character’? Far more than an impressive fireplace or gnarled beam, maintains Sally. >>

To celebrate 10 years in business we are offering a huge discount on many suites and fixtures for June only!

10 Stirling Court, Eleventh Avenue North, Team Valley, NE11 0JF check out our new website MAY/JUN13

www.h2obdc.co.uk

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WORD’S OUT in association with

www.greatlook.co.uk

Surrounding ourselves with nostalgia and history helps us plug into the past

“To bring character to any property we need to add our own story in the form of salvage, antiques, vintage or retro pieces, heirlooms or simply objects that mean something to us.

“Surrounding ourselves with nostalgia and history helps us to plug into the past, making us feel grounded in the present and confident about looking to the future.”

CHARACTER – THE RIGHT DIRECTION Mis-matched works: • Tease out a unifying colour - disparate objects which have a hint of the same colour will work together in harmony.

• Find style similarities – historical styles are often copied and revived. For example, Arts&Crafts Movement had its roots in gothic style and these pieces work together.

• Arrange similar items in groups – collections work really well clustered together, be they books, ships in bottles or kitsch finds.

Your own art gallery: • Art can be a family heirloom oil painting or a child’s crayon picture. The work of Sally Taylor is displayed with refreshing informality on a bold red wicker laundry basket, pictured on previous page.

• There are numerous ways to get unique pieces into your home the most obvious being to ask people you know to create them for you.

• Repetition will make for a dazzling display, be it glass bottles, mirrors, even kitchen utensils. Grouping makes a great impact.

Humour at home: • Use pieces out of context. A surprise ornament, picture or object will create a sense of fun and be less intimidating, showing your personality.

• Vintage tins and advertising boards add a retro look to a contemporary space. Seek them out at salvage stores.

• Change the function of salvage pieces to create something novel. Turn shutters into wall panelling, taps and tools into rows of hooks and fruit crates into bedroom storage.

Written word: • Typography, pictured above right, is wildly popular and playful. Fonts can be intricate and individual. Old signs and posters add character and humanity to a space.

• Search vintage yards for old pub signs, printer’s blocks, children’s wooden alphabet letters and wrought-iron initials.

• Incorporate a family phrase or saying into your home with a wall quotation that looks striking and raises a smile.

A Home of Your Own by Sally Coulthard, £24.95, published by Merrell.

Photographs by Victoria Harley Photographer www.split-pin.co.uk 07906 44 60 12

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“Now that’s a Wood Idea” Based in Blaydon, A WOOD IDEA are specialist suppliers of quality joinery products to retail and trade clients. We have an extensive range of hardwood flooring, doors, staircases & garden decking. A full installation service is available on all products.

A WOOD IDEA can also supply made to measure doors and frames. So if you have A WOOD IDEA, call into the showroom and see our range.

STEPPING UP IN STYLE

Staircases I Flooring I Doors I Decking www.awoodidea.com Unit 4, Blaydon Trade Park, Toll Bridge Road, Blaydon, Tyne & Wear. NE21 5TR

T 0191 414 1300 MAY/JUN13

F 0191 414 1306

A WOOD IDEA

GREAT IDEAS IN WOOD FLOORING & DOORS

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BAY WATCHING in association with

HOMES

www.greatlook.co.uk

with Karen Stephenson Die-for views in a sought-after seaside location

Runswick Bay is one of the most sought-after villages on the North Yorkshire coast with beachside properties that huddle on the hillside and gaze towards the sea.

The charm of the place is that it is car-free and peaceful, unspoilt and unhurried.

But this kind of ‘charm by the bucketful’ also makes for a host of headaches when it comes to turning an unloved property into a beachy bolthole.

Owners Shona and Roger found the place after putting a note through the letterbox to see if it was for sale – it is rare for homes in this sought-after village to ever go on the open market.

So although they thought the gods had smiled on them when they were able to buy it, they knew there was a project ahead. The cottage had been renovated in the Sixties and needed a huge amount of work.

It was essentially a two-bedroomed cottage with twists and turns, dated windows and small rooms that didn’t make the most of the stunning sea views.

Added to this was the fact that the cottage was built into the hillside and was fairly inaccessible – certainly to any vehicles.

But the potential was obvious as soon as we saw the place – even though architects and builders had offered their own ideas for

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BAY WATCHING

the space Shona and Roger commissioned me to carry out the design, building, renovation and interior work.

The setting is to die for. The need to maximise the views to the sea and cliffs beyond was a key factor. So too was the desire to knock down walls, maximise the space, create more bedrooms and bring a seaside feel to the cottage.

What I tried to do was visualise the house without walls and think differently

about what was essentially a good amount of space.

I took out the ceilings and we made a proper third floor – we made it into a four-bedroomed property each with an en-suite. We added a terrace to the ground floor bedroom and introduced separate staircases so that there were different areas to the house – for space and privacy.

The challenges were obvious – everything had to be hand-carried. The village is

accessed by a vertiginous road and there are tiny lanes and pathways to the cottages.

Walls and ceilings came down – the team realised that some of the structural walls by the hillside were falling down. It was structurally unsound so they had to carry out extensive steelwork to ensure the safety of the building.

The windows were replaced and lowered to make the most of the views.

It was renovated in the Sixties – we >>

The challenges were obvious – everything had to be hand-carried.

The village is accessed by a vertiginous road and there are tiny lanes and pathways to the cottages

The region’s leading bathroom specialists The bathroom studio are committed to providing the best service, product choice and exceptional value for our clients.

• Free no obligation design consultation • 65 beautiful new displays • Over 35 years experience, we are a family run business

Simply beautiful bathrooms...

Unit 4D, Airport Ind Est. Kingston Park NE3 2EF 0191 271 5800

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BAY WATCHING in association with

www.greatlook.co.uk

There is a great sense of light and space thanks to knocking down walls and painting in a light colour - we used Farrow&Ball Pointing throughout

brought it back to being a heritage cottage with attention to detail. We put in traditional sliding sash windows. We tried to make it look like a beach house.

It has a huge sense of space thanks to the use of light colours – it is painted in Farrow & Ball Pointing throughout.

We were able to open up the space by replacing staircases in the property.

The stairway in the sitting room is particularly impressive. The open cantilever style meant it was less obtrusive in the ground-floor space and we made a real feature of it with glass panels which allow the light to flood through the property from top to bottom.

Underneath the staircase we were able to install bench seating fitted in to the extra space.

The kitchen – made by my company Whitelam Manufacturing – was designed and built in space that in the former property had been a bathroom and toilet on the ground floor. The wooden units were painted in a soft eggshell blue to add a seaside feel.

On this level we made space to add to the dining area with a long built-in window seat.

Well-chosen accessories and features really give the property character – owner Shona chose many of the pieces and they add dramatic effect – there is a striking light fitting made from lanterns and a wooden beam for example. A driftwood table base could have been fashioned from a session beach-combing.

The use of striped fabrics, soft tones and contrasting textures against the pale background creates a calming and

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natural tone with wood and coir matting floors adding to the sand-between-your -toes feeling.

In every room there is a fine vantage point to take in the sea views, whether the day is a breezy or a bright one.

It’s now probably the most enviable cottage in the village.

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Unique designer furniture on display • Kitchens • Bedrooms • Interior design service www.greatlook.co.uk

0191 4913836

10th Avenue West | Team Valley Trading Estate | Gateshead | Opposite Retail World 2 MAY/JUN13

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LUXE LOVES

LUXE LOVES Being gripped by Gatsby ‘Tomorrow we will run faster, stretch our arms out wider’. More than a quote, this lithograph poster is made with words – the entire Great Gatsby book is on the poster.

There are four more fabulous designs available so Alice in Wonderland, Peter Pan, Les Miserables and Emma could be coming to a wall near you. £29.95, www.prezzybox.com

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PALE & INTERESTING

TREND WATCH >> White Company and Ercol rocking chair in white. £785, www.whitecompany.com

with Bryan Middleton Crisp white and clean. White is right for summer spaces

>> Blaue Blume, Extra Large breakfast cup, £45, www.culturelab.com

As the sun comes out and the air begins to warm it’s time to bring out the white linens from their winter hibernation in the back of the wardrobe. Similarly, going all white in your interior can have the same refreshing feel as wearing your linens on that first warm day of summer.

Look to the Scandinavians for inspiration for all white - they do it so well - their design focuses on natural materials. The look is timeless and elegant whilst having a laid-back, relaxed and calming feel.

The White Company has collaborated with renowned furniture company Ercol to create a range of hand-crafted white furniture, the simplicity and style of the range mimics the minimalism of Scandinavian design.

White accessories with texture or pattern can be layered against smooth materials to add depth and relief to interiors. The Malika Lamp by John Lewis provides an exotic feel whilst the light would bounce off white surfaces throwing shadows across a room, creating an intimate setting for evening soirees.

With the right accessories this trend can create the perfect summer interiors that open up spaces. (Here comes the ‘sciencey’ bit) The colour white reflects light off its surfaces rather than absorbing colours. Therefore used in an interior this can create bright rooms which appear larger because the maximum light is being reflected around the space. >> Farrow & Ball Wisteria paper, £98 per roll, www.farrow-ball.com >> Sideboard, £1,995 BoConcept, www.boconcept.co.uk and Fenwick, Newcastle

>> John Lewis Malika Table Lamp, £60, www.johnlewis.com

Middleton Design DURHAM

• Curtains • Fabrics • Wallpapers • Commissioned furniture www.middletondesign.co.uk MAY/JUN13

Station House, Durham City 0191 384 3884 71

LUXE LIFE

IAN WATSON

Ian Watson is owner and chairman of Gatesheadbased Hadrian Healthcare Group. He recently joined forces with another Northeast businessman, Graham Wylie, to stage the region’s biggest ever charity fundraising event.

Fashion Match, which was held at Newcastle Falcons’ Kingston Park ground, raised £280,000 for Marie Curie, the Children’s Heart Unit Fund at the Freeman Hospital and the Chef’s Adopt a School Charity LUXE PEOPLE >> Her recent passing has stirred up a lot of emotion and opinion but, for me, Margaret Thatcher has always been someone I strongly admire for her single-minded determination and strength of character. Musically, one of my all-time favourites is David Bowie. I’m also a huge fan of Stephen Fry. LUXE PLACES >> For a weekend > There’s nothing better than being at home, whether that be in Newcastle or Marbella.

A long holiday > We went to Barbados over Easter which was fantastic, a beautiful place and an extremely relaxing break. My summers are generally spent in Marbella.

A treat > Would have to be cruising the French Riviera.

RELAX >> Best food > Any kind of fish.

Best wine > I can drink white or red. My preferred are a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc or a Châteauneuf-du-Pape Favourite restaurant > Terry Laybourne’s Café 21 in Newcastle and MC Café in Marbella.

Perfect weekend > Probably start with sport with the kids, bacon sarnies, walk the dog, have a round of golf and then have some good food and drink with friends.

Downtime means > I really don’t know what that is... I’ve never experienced it!

Best telly > To this day, I still laugh at Fawlty Towers!

Best theatre > Billy Elliot is the best I’ve seen in recent years.

Best book > Birdsong by Sebastian Faulks.

Best sounds > It just depends on the mood – ranging from Bob Dylan to Paolo Nutini.

LUXE SHOP >> Best shopping city > You can’t beat London for shopping, it has everything you could possibly ever want.

Favourite shop > Harrods, it’s very easy to lose hours in there.

Luxe retail treat > Has to be a new watch.

Best buy > I wouldn’t say any particular item. What I would term a best buy is getting good quality at the right price.

LUXE PARTY >> A memorable night out > Sometimes the simplest nights are the most memorable. All my most memorable nights involve good food, good wine and good friends.

Favourite item of clothing When I’m not at work there’s nothing better than changing into scruffy baggy trousers and a T-shirt.

Perfect party > Fashion Match of course! We had a fantastic turnout for the event and raised an amazing amount for local charities.

Dinner date > With my lovely wife.

YOUR LUXE THING IN LIFE >> Just to stay well.

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MAY/JUN13

GREAT OUTDOORS XXXXXXXX

PLOT with Will Quarmby, Hampton Court Flower Show gold winner Get thee to the garden and sit beneath the stars

This month we have had some better weather and this makes for a sunnier disposition. Everyone seems happier, the birds chirpier and there’s generally a brighter outlook all round. We’ve been soaking it up and making the most of it; our vegetable plot is ready to plant out, the seedlings have chitted nicely in the greenhouse and the temptation to eat al fresco is also inviting - if only we had somewhere to sit.

So this month I turn to the subject of outdoor seating; as with interiors, seating is a broad-ranging description that can relate to so many functions and designs that really it knows no bounds. Depending on the size and scale of your outdoor space it is possible to create “rooms” within a garden to not only physically, but also mentally, delineate areas.

Should the budget and size constraints allow, there could be an eating area; possibly sunken with a firepit/barbeque, a vegetable plot, a children’s play area, an evening drinks area situated under a wisteria-draped pergola or canopy, a ha-ha, a perfect spot for an elegant piece of sculpture or water feature. The opportunities are endless.

Back in the real world as the summers get shorter and the winters get longer the typical British family scrapes together a dodgy three-legged wonky BBQ levelled with an old brick, and a few dusty plastic chairs that are otherwise catching spiders in the garage.

Recently I have been fortunate enough to work on some really interesting projects, all of which had tight budgets, yet this did not constrain my imagination too severely.

In one of the gardens we have fitted a sunken seating area with a fire pit so that even when it is a bit too breezy and cool to sit on the lawn unprotected, these lucky clients can light the pit and sit sheltered out of the breeze toasting marshmallows and having drinks.

This was reminiscent of my RHS Tatton garden where I had

>> Above: Neptune’s Murano Collection. All-year-round rattan providing a very relaxed seating area – perfect for an evening G&T

>> Above: Garden Trading’s St Maw’s Table with eight Chilgrove Chairs, £1800. The table is teak which will mellow and soften in colour over time. Below, Garden Trading Gooseberry set, £260. www.gardentrading.co.uk

>> Above: Vincent Sheppard Lucy Sun Lounger

With another Bank Holiday to look forward to it may well be time to review your garden seating area, perhaps rethink the wobbly plastic chairs and invest. If you create an area that works for you, then it truly will be an investment you can enjoy for years to come

MAY/JUNE13

been inspired by a shooting butt on a grouse moor. We designed the ultimate in luxe seating with a bespoke circular Iroko bench ingeniously constructed so that it was cantilevered (i.e. had no visible supports as they ran into the wall it was set against) and was surrounded by a retaining dry stone wall. This was not dug out, yet the wall created a wind break and softened the space, creating a romantic and intimate area.

I am a massive fan of garden seating areas. My designs invariably try to manipulate the garden into being an extension of the living area. It may well be because I have always enjoyed being outdoors that I encourage that in my children now. Sadly gardens are so often “wasted,” made redundant by their inability to really serve a purpose. A garden is not merely a canvas on which to create a pretty view, it can be so much more, even in our climate.

In a relatively small area at RHS Hampton Court, I created a garden that had a fully-fledged dining area; this was created on a number of different levels. Having a sunken area is by no means obligatory, sometimes in urban gardens it is a necessity, in others just a way of adding another dimension.

What I am mindful of is that a seating area works best when not simply plonked into a garden. The area has to be considered, to be sympathetic to its surroundings. We are lucky now to be able to buy good quality seating, that can be left out all year round, not only advantageous in the sense that we can be impromptu without having to turf out and dust off the relics from the garage, but also they are low maintenance. I am a fan of a number of garden furniture companies such as Garden Trading, Neptune, Oxley’s and Vincent Sheppard. These can offer styles to suit most budgets, and when we cannot find what we are looking for “off the peg” I have a fantastic team that can manufacture to my designs.

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LUXE LOCAL

Seaham

Seaside Seaham. Dramatic clifftop scenery, cobweb-blowing walks, a fair bit of secret history and even a poetic history

PROPERTIES >> Seaham has been ‘on the up’ for a few years – most notably with the restoration of Seaham Hall which really made it a desirable destination and, some said, the unlikely place to find a five-star hotel. It was once a mining town so there is a variety of properties that reflect that history – workers’ cottages then the more grand Victorian and Edwardian properties right on the seafront. The Vane Tempest family who owned Wynyard Hall had a railway line laid between that estate and the colliery at Seaham which they also owned.

Today the East Shore Village is a modern estate with houses that make the most of the impressive views and which mean you can be beachside within minutes when the sun shines.

CONNECTED >> Pretty easy to get to from the A19 – the newer road to the south of Seaham gives an amazing view of the East Durham coastline and right down to North Yorkshire on a good day.

Local trains link to Newcastle and Sunderland.

SHOP >> Well, we at luxe are real fans of the Joseph outlet shop at Dalton Park, one of the North’s hidden retail gems, let us tell you. Maybe we shouldn’t be letting that cat out of the shopping bag! There are amazing bargains to be had here from the luxury Joseph brand – great knits, eveningwear and very luxey sheepskins.

Dalton Park itself is good for a mooch, with Gap, Radley, M&S, Crabtree & Evelyn, loads of sportswear, interior and shoe shops. You have to arrive with an open mind but you usually come home with some bargain or other.

STROLL >> Seaham is home to the clifftop walk, surely? The aforementioned views are great and from Seaham Hall you can follow trails through the wooded Seaham Dene and find out more about the property where poet Lord Byron lived for a time.

The Durham Coastal Footpath is a superb 11-mile walking route from Seaham in the north to Crimdon in the south, leading through stunning clifftop scenery with links into coastal villages each with their own special stories to tell.

This coast is one that has been affected by constant change, both natural and manmade, but it has always been a special place for nature lovers. The underlying geology is Magnesian Limestone with boulder clay above it which supports fantastic grassland with wonderful plants and other wildlife. The walk starts in Seaham where the North Dock, created for the export of coal, is now a smart marina next to the working port in South Dock. The path follows the cliffs to Nose’s Point where there are superb views down to Whitby on a clear day.

This was the site of the former Dawdon colliery but now a gateway to the most tranquil section of the Heritage Coast.

EAT AND DRINK >> Have an ice-cream at the Lickety Split ice-cream parlour on the seafront terrace. A sweet 50s-style diner that gets very busy! You can hire a blanket with your cornet if you want to head for the beach!

Seaham Hall’s Ozone Restaurant is a popular stop-off for eastern-inspired Asian tapas. The circular restaurant is alongside the hotel’s spa and offers a good selection of inspiring Asian dishes which are cooked at open stoves onsite.

We at luxe are real fans of the Joseph outlet store at Dalton Park, one of the North’s hidden retail gems, make no mistake 74

MAY/JUN13

LUXE LOCAL

my local Leah Richardson is owner of Hairdressing@No4 By Leah on the seafront at Seaham. She has just been included in the independent Good Salon Guide Three good things about living in Seaham >> • Great location - easy access to lots of places - Durham, Sunderland, Newcastle.

• Beautiful coastline - see Whitby on a clear day!

• Regeneration of the area is bringing thriving new businesses here Three places to take visitors • Seafront, marina, promenade • Nose’s Point • Seaham Hall And an ‘in the know’ secret >> People collect Seaham seaglass. It was discarded as ‘end of day’ waste from the former glass works on the coast, washed up on the beach and collected.

It comes in lots of different colours and people from across the world collect it.

It is made into jewellery - google Seaham Waves for examples.

property: three to choose Hideout Where do burned-out stars hide away? Word has it that Gazza and Chris Evans used Dejoh as a bolthole in their wild days. Secluded and surrounded by woodland near Seaham Dene. Not sure the boys would have made the most of the rural countryside and sea views but privacy from paparazzi guaranteed with remote-controlled gates and a private driveway.

£450,000 www.jonathonlewis.co.uk

So stylish Queen Ann House is a real buy-me home in the hamlet of Old Burdon believed to have been originally constructed in 1870 in a Queen Ann style. Recently refurbished by local designer, Melanie Brown. Lovely, stylish home with treats like arched windows, fabulous fireplaces, an Aga and painted and stripped wood furniture.

£899,000 www.sandersonyoung.co.uk

Chic farming

PROPERTY WATCH WITH DUNCAN YOUNG

THE RETURN OF BEST AND FINAL OFFERS It is pleasing to note in the general press and media that the housing market is recovering. In the North East of England some of the hot spots are experiencing excessive demand from buyers and a relatively low supply, and already this year my firm has handled a number of sales which have proceeded to best and final offers. One of the best examples recently was in the suburb of Gosforth where a semi-detached threebedroom house received 28 viewings within 11 days and 12 offers of the asking price or more. The property was very well presented but eventually sold for nearly 15 per cent more than the last comparable sale in its area, and this is an indication of excess demand.

The middle value price ranges, between £250,000 - £500,000, are particularly popular at the moment, and the suburbs of Newcastle, Gosforth and Jesmond are experiencing high demand. Core market towns including Morpeth, Hexham and Alnwick are also seeing increasing enquiries from buyers who are keen to purchase. Demand from the £500,000 - £1 million level has also increased, although some of the applicants are being unrealistic about the anticipated price at which they feel they can purchase.

In most of the region, houses are selling at a level similar to that of what we achieved in 2003/2004, and therefore, in real terms, house prices have stagnated over the last 10 years.

The economists, because of the lack of supply and lack of new-build, are forecasting that prices will rise over the next 18 months and we have seen a variety of forecasts, varying between 20% - 40%, for anticipated increases.

It is very important in a market like this that we continue to supply as many houses as we can, and my offices are actively encouraging old valuations, previously withdrawn houses and vendors who are coming to the market for the first time, to react now and have their homes appraised. The company is well structured to deal with the enquiries that we have and the current market conditions.

The internet and the mobile media continue to play a vital part in the selling of houses, but it is not purely the media that sells a property since good old-fashioned negotiation continues to be absolutely paramount. It is vitally important that we speak to our purchasers and our vendors and ideally have the opportunity to meet up with them face to face. In this way we can anticipate their requirements and practice the real art of negotiation to try and place both the vendor and the purchaser at a mutually acceptable level. It is of course not just the agreeing of a sale but seeing it through to exchange and completion of the contract which is vitally important. Our experienced and mature sales co-ordinators are very well trained to minimise any fall throughs in the sales process, and it is vitally important that we provide as much evidence as possible to the surveyors and valuers who are carrying out the inspection of a property on behalf of a bank or funder.

We have excellent comparable knowledge and we can clearly support, with real time figures, house prices within the region.

I am delighted to report that we have more than doubled the sales in our Rare! branch in comparison to what we did this same time last year, and whilst again some of the buyers are being very hard with their purchasing, they are equally keen to find somewhere to live and there has never been a better time to purchase a luxury mansion or a fabulous estate within the region.

As we move forward to the well-anticipated summer season, gardens will look their very best and the opportunity for people to improve these areas makes tremendous financial sense since gardens create a significant added value to the sale of property and are very important to prospective buyers.

At Sanderson Young we are enjoying the busiest period of sales activity we have had for the last seven years, and my team of experienced sales negotiators very much look forward to helping you with your prospective sale. Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can be of any assistance at Duncan.young@sandersonyoung.co.uk.

East Cherry Knowle Farm dates from the 1700s and is a restored, stone farmhouse. Nicely renovated with very cool interiors including a nice south-facing sun terrace. Thick stone walls are a feature as is the restored iron range.

There’s a chicken pen, duck pond and wooden area alongside.

£425,000 www.jonathonlewis.co.uk

Duncan G Young Dip.Est.Man.FNAEA, Managing Director, Sanderson Young duncan.young@sandersonyoung.co.uk 0191 223 3500

MAY/JUN13

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SELLING THE REGION’S

FINEST HOMES

LaudeR GRanGe Prospect Hill, Corbridge A highly impressive detached house with outstanding views over its stunning grounds of just under 23 acres, and the Tyne Valley. Built in the 1870s this fine ‘gentleman’s residence’ has been extensively and luxuriously upgraded in recent years and has a great deal of style.

Accommodation includes four principal reception rooms, a superb master bedroom suite, six further bedrooms, two further bathrooms, and an extensive basement with the potential to create a state of the art leisure/media wing.

Price Guide: £3.5 million

Runnymede Road Darras Hall, Ponteland is magnificent modern mansion is set back from Runnymede Road with a lovely gated entrance. Built in the late 1990s, this highly impressive luxury home has been constructed to a very high standard. e rear garden has a beautiful burn which runs through the lawns. e boundaries and borders surrounding the gardens are attractive and the tall mature trees give good screening. is is a highly impressive house for which viewing is strongly recommended.

Price Guide: £1.75 million

From Sanderson Young

ALL CONFIDENTIAL ENQUIRIES TO 0191 223 3500 or email: duncan.young@sandersonyoung.co.uk

SELLING THE REGION’S

FINEST HOMES

sunfieLd House orp Avenue, Morpeth A magnificent three storey detached Victorian villa, situated in this most sought aer street within the picturesque Northumbrian market town of Morpeth. Sunfield has undergone considerable refurbishment and modernisation in recent years to provide well appointed family accommodation, which is well presented and benefits from the stunning modern extension to the breakfasting kitchen area e grounds incorporate private gardens in excess of one third of an acre (0.38 acres approx) We would strongly recommend early internal viewing in order to fully appreciate this fine family home.

Price Guide: £895,000

Woodside CottaGe Syke Road, Burnopfield Woodside Cottage is situated in a semi rural setting and benefits from over 4,000 sq  of luxurious accommodation. e interior design and styling is particularly impressive and the house has a great deal of unusual and highly tasteful features throughout. ere is a guest bedroom suite, ideal for relatives or regular visitors, and a leisure room which accommodates a swimming pool. A superb opportunity to acquire a unique home in a very convenient area. Viewing is strongly recommended.

Price Guide: offers over £795,000

From Sanderson Young

ALL CONFIDENTIAL ENQUIRIES TO 0191 223 3500 or email: duncan.young@sandersonyoung.co.uk

Fine & Country iPhone App Download the Fine & Country iPhone App today to browse some of the finest properties worldwide. Featuring our unique lifestyle video technology, stunning imagery and a ‘near you’ search facility.

Download it now at www.fineandcountry.com

local, regional, national and international specialists in property marketing 242 PARK ROAD HARTLEPOOL NEW PRICE AND PART EXCHANGE Park Road is one of Hartlepool’s most prestigious addresses, dominated by detached sumptuous Victorian Villas epitome of elegance. Leading away from the centre of town towards Ward Jackson Park and countryside beyond, the location of 242 Park Road is perfect for all of Hartlepool’s amenities. The property is a particularly impressive example, double fronted and with accommodation over three storeys allowing plenty of flexibility to meet a variety of needs. It has been fully refurbished by the current vendors, a number of original features have been retained and enhanced. The three primary reception rooms have high ceilings with heavy plasterwork, period fireplaces and large windows letting in plenty of light. Although the historical character of the property has been preserved, this is very much a modern home which has been lavished with care and fitted to the highest standards. Unexpectedly contemporary, both spacious and elegant with many luxury features, there is a formal lounge with bay window leading through to a separate dining room. There is also a lovely sitting room leading through to the dining kitchen, which is as near as a kitchen can get to being glamorous. To the rear of the house is a sun room with French doors leading outside onto the sun terrace. There are four bedrooms on the first floor, immaculately presented with tasteful décor. The third floor is an extensive space that offers plenty of opportunities but, the current layout is for two bedrooms, a TV room and a bathroom. 242 Park Road is set back from the road with a private entrance to an outstanding home.

Contact: 0191 3842277

LAMTON REDWORTH HALL, REDWORTH COUNTY DURHAM • A rare chance to acquire a rural ideal.

• Set within the grounds of the splendid Redworth Hall Estate.

• The setting is beautiful, secluded and has no though road access.

• It makes an ideal safe environment for children and pets alike.

• The accommodation is well presented throughout.

• The new owner will have discounted access to all of Redworths Hall facilities.

• A perfect place for entertaining.

£550,000

ASH TREE HOUSE TUDHOE VILLAGE COUNTY DURHAM • Charming four bed quintessential village home.

• Set in the most attractive parishes with views over village green and nestled in a peaceful idyllic location.

• The property has been fully refurbished with a contemporary feel and a wealth of traditional features have been retained.

• It is immaculately presented throughout and there is planning permission to add a garage and further bedroom.

• EER D58

Contact: 0191 384 2277

£675,000 Contact: 0191 384 2277

Newcastle 0845 459 6000

Durham 0191 384 2277

Wynyard 01740 645 444

residing@fineandcountry.com

info@durhamfineandcountry.co.uk info@wynyardfineandcountry.co.uk residing@fineandcountry.com cumbria@fineandcountry.com

Tyne Valley 0845 459 6000

£369,000 Cumbria 0845 872 5453

Sales & Lettings North East creative and intelligent marketing of individual and country property

...300 offices worldwide GUNNERVALE WYNYARD

A magnificent property standing in its own grounds, 23 Gunnersvale is a home that embodies success and achievement.

It is built to a grand scale with large windows, providing spacious five-bedroom accommodation in a layout that can be adapted to meet individual needs. Three principal reception rooms and a substantial conservatory from which the full extent of the grounds can be appreciated. Entering through a columned portico into the reception hallway, to the right is a formal lounge with stylish black fireplace and to the left a family room and dual aspect dining room. Beyond is the beautiful kitchen which is fitted with contemporary white units incorporating a breakfast bar and a range of modern appliances. The kitchen leads open plan into the vast conservatory and outdoors to a patio dining area, leading to the lovely garden with footpaths, lawns and mature trees. The master suite has views over the garden and comprises a dressing room and luxury en-suite shower room. The second bedroom has modern en-suite facilities as well as fitted wardrobes. There are two double bedrooms at the front and another good size double at the back sharing a family bathroom. The property has an extensive block paved parking area at the front and a double attached garage.

Contact: 01740 645 444

10 MANOR FIELDS WYNYARD

£645,000

THE GRANARY WYNYARD

• Substantial five bed luxurious family home.

• Exclusive Wynyard location.

• Occupying a large plot in peaceful gated cul-de-sac.

• Very stylish throughout.

• Every room is of generous size.

• The considerable outdoor space has been beautifully landscaped.

• Surrounded by greenery with fabulous open countryside views.

• EER C70

Contact: 01740 645 444 Lakes 01539 733 500

Northumberland 0845 459 6000

sales@fineandcountry-lakes.co.ul

info@durhamfineandcountry.co.uk

• Impressive and beautifully presented two bed apartment.

• Located at the heart of the exclusive Wynyard development.

• Enjoying pleasant views over the duck pond.

• Superbly presented in neutral tones.

• Very stylish and well appointed kitchen.

• Delightful master with contemporary en-suite.

£599,000 Contact: 01740 645 444

£179,950

www.fineandcountry.com Head office: 121 Park Lane, Mayfair, London WIK 7AG.

WILD WEEKEND

Out on the wild & windy moor…

A minibreak? Promise me we don’t have to sit in little boats and read poncey poetry to each other… Pauline Holt goes all literary in Bronte country

Like many Luxe readers, I’m still young enough to remember Kate Bush giving it max on Top of the Pops with Wuthering Heights.

Her unforgettable billowings were made all the more dramatic for me because Emily Bronte’s fabulous novel, full of seething passion and dark, brooding moorland landscapes, had been our book for O-level (or GCSE to modern readers).

Since those far-off days (the 1980s, not the 1880s) I’d sometimes thought of making the literary pilgrimage to Top Withens, the ruined farmhouse that may have inspired Bronte, a few miles hike out of Haworth in West Yorkshire but never quite got round to it.

Then last summer, in search of a ‘full blown minibreak holiday weekend’ a la Bridget Jones, I happened upon Yorkshire’s Coniston Hotel and Country Estate, a perfect backdrop to a Bronte getaway.

‘A minibreak?’, I could hear my husband thinking. I almost expected him to quote Daniel Cleaver: ‘Just promise me we don’t have to sit in little boats and read poncey poetry to each other.’

Well, there were no little boats, but you can’t help reciting a bit of Bronte as you climb the rugged path up Penistone Hill – and after all, it was our twentieth wedding anniversary so a little romance was only right.

However, my rose-tinted specs were about to be shattered, dear reader, as you shall see.

Not by the Coniston Hotel however. That was a lovely choice for a special celebration. Set in 1,400 acres of parkland, our large room, decked out in contemporary green and brown furnishings, overlooked a shimmering swan

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lake. The weekend kicked off with Friday night champers on our terrace, overlooking said lake and a toast to 20 fabulous years.

Dinner is a real treat in the hotel’s Macleods restaurant, a light and airy space with beautiful contemporary art around the walls. You can choose from both their Signature or a la carte menus which means you’re really spoilt for choice.

I began with grilled scallops on a squid ink risotto with chorizo oil from the a la carte which were perfectly cooked while my Three Dales rump of lamb with a minted jus and rosemary rosti was outstanding. Mr Cleaver (I wish) chose slow-cooked belly pork on black pudding puree with apples from the Signature menu followed by Holme Farm venison medallions with rhubarb jelly and juniper jus.

The puddings were seriously mouth-watering with choices like millionaire’s chocolate cheesecake and fresh strawberry and cream pavlova but we opted to sample the local Yorkshire and Lancashire fine dining cheeses which included a blow-your-mind Bowland and a robust Ribblesdale goats.

Saturday saw us up bright and early for the full English – it’s a tribute to the clear Yorkshire air that we could do justice to such a plate after the previous night’s feasting.

And so to walk it all off, we headed to Haworth, home of the Bronte sisters, about a half-hour drive away. You can park in the centre of this quaint little town before heading off on the seven-mile circular hike that begins at the tourist office and takes you along the pathways the sisters walked, past the waterfalls named after them, described by Charlotte Bronte as “fine indeed; a perfect torrent racing over the rocks, white and beautiful” and up to Top Withens, before returning to the parsonage where they lived and wrote, which is now a museum.

We used a Guardian walk (downloadable from www.guardian. co.uk/travel/2009/jun/06/brontes-moors-haworth-westyorkshire-walk) to guide us and it was excellent, though it’s well-signposted. In fact the signposts are even in Japanese as well as English, such is the international appetite for the Brontes.

MAY/JUN13

WILD WEEKEND >> Bronte parsonage

>> The hotel bar

Kate Bush’s unforgettable billowings were made all the more dramatic for me because of Emily Bronte’s fabulous novel full of seething passion and dark, brooding moorland landscapes

>> Macleods Restaurant One thing we did do before setting off was to check the opening times of the Parsonage Museum so we had enough time to visit on the way back.

The walk is not too taxing and anyone of reasonable fitness should be able to tackle it, including small children. If you take a pair of binoculars, you might be lucky enough to see some of the birds that breed up in these hills which include curlew, golden plover, merlin and peregrine.

The route is enjoyable, not just because you’re immersed in the dramatic scenery that informs the Brontes’ writing but there are also sculptures on the way including a series of stone books by Martin Heron called Literary Landscape installed in 2003. You’ll find them along the footpath that leads off Dimple Lane to Penistone.

As you climb up to the top of the hill from the waterfalls, the destination of your pilgrimage, Top Withens, hoves into view and excitement mounts.

Could this really be the setting for Wuthering Heights?

Certainly Top Withens is ‘wuthering’, which in old Yorkshire dialect was, according to Bronte’s Mr Lockwood, ‘descriptive of the atmospheric tumult to which its station

MAY/JUN13

>> Inside the parsonage is exposed in stormy weather’.

On reaching the ruin though, we discovered a plaque, thoughtfully added by the Bronte Society in 1964 which informs weary pilgrims: ‘The buildings, even when complete, bore no resemblance to the house she (Bronte) described’, though they grudgingly concede, ‘the situation may have been in her mind when she wrote of the moorland setting of the Heights’.

Well, talk about bursting my pretty balloon! Never mind, it was a terrific walk and on the way back we called into the parsonage where you can see how the sisters – and their brother, Branwell – lived. My favourite exhibits were the teensy weensy books they would fashion as children, prefiguring their adult achievements as writers of monumental stature.

Back at the Coniston, we headed to the Huntsman’s Lodge, an elegant bar with a huge open fire, that would be a real attraction in the winter months, but we chose to take our G & Ts onto the sun terrace to mull over our walk and plan the next day.

If walking is your thing, there’s not only Bronte country, the

Coniston is at the gateway to the Lakes, being situated just outside Skipton. Mallam Cove is just a short drive too and the Settle to Carlisle Railway. But for those preferring to stay put, the hotel itself offers a range of activities including one of the best clay pigeon shooting grounds in Europe; fishing; archery and an off-road Land Rover experience.

We decided to end our weekend with a cream tea and mooch round the beautiful Dales village of Grassington.

A former lead-mining community, it now plays host to thousands of visitors each year and hosts a popular music and arts festival (14-29 June) which this year features Jools Holland and his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra.

So whether it’s books or blues that rock your boat, the Coniston Hotel is minibreak heaven and if a special someone has invited you on one, in the words of Bridget (who was not exactly Catherine Earnshaw): ‘…minibreak for holiday means true love.’

Pauline visited The Coniston Hotel and Country Estate, Coniston Cold, Skipton, North Yorkshire BD23 4EA. Visit: www.theconistonhotel.com Tel: 01756-748080

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TIME OFF

Think about it – no travelling time, no airports, just a different perspective on the place you live. Here’s the first luxe itinerary, starting with Newcastle

Lay your head > Roomzzz is a top spot. You can have your own homestay in a chi-chi loft-style apartment in this restored building behind the Central Station. The former Friar House is a late Georgian town house which still retains many of its original features. Cobbled streets outside, a grand entrance and cool views from the rooms make you feel like you’re ‘loft-living’ the dream. The ceilings are high, the interiors are all deep shades and minimalist styling. The location is great and there’s a big telly, appleMac and mini kitchen so you can arrive armed with fizz and nibbles to get the party started – great for a girly weekend. Apartments are spacious and, well, lofty. There’s a penthouse with a mezzanine bedroom as well as gracious suites with rooms big enough to have your chums round. They are a really good city-centre bolthole managing to be comfy and super-stylish at the same time.

Rooms from £69.50 www.roomzzz.com Feed your need > Scurry over the road to Grainger Market on a Saturday morning and get some still-warm treats from The French Oven for an indulgent breakfast – or take a seat at Cafe Royal and let them do the hard work.

It’s worth booking in on the first Friday of the month when the new cool food happening, the Boiler Shop Steamer street food event, takes place. The hotel is just a perfect two-minute walk away. The ‘steamer’ happens at Stephenson Works behind the station from 4pm on the Friday evening and runs Saturday afternoon/evening. It is a riot of trendy street food stalls, real beer, music, artists and general cultured cool. www.theboilershopsteamer.com Take a stroll > Forget the shops just this once.

Roomzzz is just moments away from one of the best walks in Newcastle. How many of you have walked beneath the gorgeous iron arches of The High Level Bridge that spans Newcastle and Gateshead (pictured below)?

Why would you? But it’s a quite spectacular piece of engineering beauty with its elegant wrought iron bow-string girders. Designed by Robert Stephenson (there’s a theme going on here – the aforementioned ‘boiler shop’ being the railway working sheds).

Restored in the recent past, there’s very little traffic on this bridge so you get a powerful and private perspective of the river and quayside in what’s an ethereal space.

Once you get to the other side, head down to Sage and Baltic – because you probably forget to pop in very often.

And how about this for a challenge? Follow in the footsteps of the Olympic Torch and take a bird’s eye view of Sage experiencing a spectacular view like no other of NewcastleGateshead. A roofwalk is £69 per person and as part of the day there’s a behind-thescenes Sage tour before being kitted out to make the climb to the roof, where you will have further opportunity to learn more about the structure of the

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Tourist in your own town...

The High Level Bridge is a quite spectacular piece of engineering beauty with its elegant iron bow-string girders building and experience the sweeping views of the surrounding Quayside and beyond. (www.sagegateshead.org) Staying by the Quayside, how about grabbing a bike from the Cycle Hub at Ouseburn and seeing the river from a different perspective. www.thecyclehub. org. Park up at Hotel du Vin for a cocktail or afternoon tea.

Then back in Ouseburn make the most of its arty heart with a visit to the Biscuit Factory which is always mooch-worthy before stopping off at our new favourite eaterie, Ernest, where you can partake of an all-day breakfast that might include the fabulous chorizo hash bowl! www.weareernest.co.uk

MAY/JUN13

LUXE LIFE

CHARLOTTE KELLY Charlotte Kelly, 24, is part of family firm h2o Bathroom Design in Team Valley. Born and bred in Whitley Bay she lives in Killingworth with partner Jamie and loves skiing, music and decorating their new house LUXE PEOPLE >> My family, my friends and Jamie, and I’ve met some great people across my years in the bathroom industry.

LUXE PLACES >> For a weekend > Skiing. I’ve skied in some fantastic places in Europe and it’s only a short flight over. I was skiing in Morzine in France earlier this year but my favourite place is Ischgl in Austria, fantastic skiing and the après ski is pretty great too.

A long holiday > Jamie and I went to Mexico a few years ago and it was definitely worth the long plane journey. We stayed in a resort in Playa del Carmen where the service was better than anywhere we had stayed before. It was the most relaxing holiday we’ve had. Even better, our resort was linked to the Xcaret eco-archaeological Park which has Mayan ruins, an exotic zoo, an aquarium, snorkelling in underground rivers and caves to name a few. It was a brilliant experience worth leaving the sun lounger for.

A treat > Center Parcs with the family, Mum insists that we all go once a year and it is one of the few places that can accommodate a noisy party like ours.

LUXE RELAX >> Best food > My favourite food is chorizo so I love tapas. I like trying new dishes in restaurants then attempting to recreate them at home.

Best wine > I can’t go past a wine from the Loire region of France.

Sancerre or Pouilly-Fume is always my first choice.

Favourite restaurant > I recently dined at Hotel du Vin in Newcastle which will definitely be getting a return visit from me for their scallops, but my all-time favourite is Gordon Ramsay’s Petrus in Belgravia. Last time we were there we were invited into the kitchen to meet the chef and he let me put on an apron and help prepare one of the dishes.

Perfect weekend > I like a busy day at the showroom on a Saturday followed by a night out in Newcastle. Sundays are for chilling out with Jamie and the family, relaxing on the sofa after a big Sunday lunch.

Downtime means > Ordering a takeaway and watching a good movie.

Best telly > I love American sitcoms and dramas, I’m into Revenge at the moment and I always watch MasterChef.

Best book > I have read all of Patricia Cornwell’s Scarpetta crime novels, and I’ve read the Hunger Games trilogy which I read in about three days because I couldn’t put them down.

Best sounds > I spent my teenage years listening to Indie bands and going to music festivals. These days I will listen to anything from The Kinks’ greatest hits to the latest chart-topper. I am currently listening to Bastille’s album Bad Blood.

LUXE SHOP >> Best shopping city > It has to be London, I can trail around the shops for hours, there is so much choice.

Favourite shop > Space NK. I shop there for all my make-up and skincare, and they give great advice on what suits you best. They even helped find a makeup artist for my sister’s upcoming wedding.

Luxe retail treat > Shoes, shoes and more shoes.

Best buy > A pair of Vivienne Westwood jeans I bought myself for my birthday, they look and feel great and they go with any style.

LUXE PARTY >> A memorable night out > There are too many to choose from! It would probably be either meeting Carl Barât from The Libertines or my 21st birthday party which was on a beachfront bar with a brilliant DJ and fireworks to end the night.

Perfect party > Any event with my closest friends and family. I am going to five weddings this year and I am really looking forward to them all and the hen parties beforehand.

Best dress > A Karen Millen dress that I got for £50 from Fenwick for a friend’s wedding, an absolute bargain, and left money in the budget for a pair of killer heels.

Dinner date > If Jamie isn’t available it would be a toss up between Debuchy or Cabaye... or both!

YOUR LUXE THING IN LIFE >> Time. I love that business is busy meaning I spend a lot of my time in the showroom but it is nice when I have time for a catch-up with the girls.

MAY/JUNE13

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LUXE LOVES A polar summer

OK, not the most seasonal of animals but how cute? One of a range of gorgeous super-soft organic baby and toddler T-shirts featuring vintage illustrations of the Happy Penguin, the Leaping Snow Hare and the Waltzing Polar Bear, each interacting with a delicate snowflake. Ethically produced T-shirts hand screen-printed in Britain and inspired by early 18th Century wood engravings. ÂŁ15, www.bouf.com

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MAY/JUN13

SOME SASSY XXXXXXXX SHOPPING

HELLO! with Nina Robinson

The big people at luxe have decided to give us little people a space of our own I’d forgotten how much I love the Metrocentre. Mum and dad tend to avoid shopping when we’re all together (I’ve no idea why...) but we were all reminded of how much fun we can all have in the malls the other weekend. Apart from the fact that my friend Chloe was allowed to come with us, the best thing about the trip was that we didn’t visit the shops AT ALL! (Buying pick ‘n’ mix doesn’t count).

We did visit Europe’s fastest dodgems however. Someone should probably have told my dad just how speedy they are before he buckled up with a four-year-old but then maybe if they had I wouldn’t be so keen to get back in the passenger seat! We hung around to meet Herbert, Sherbert, Maggot and Rusty, also known as the Metrognomes, ate burgers and supped Oreo milkshake at the very cool Gourmet Burger Kitchen and finally tired ourselves out racing about the Namco soft play. Here are a few photos from our day...

Love, little luxe x

Nina:loves

>> Oilily Chase parka, £72-88, oililyshop.com/en

Mummy Dinosaurs return to life!

Guess who’s making camp at Newcastle’s Life Science Centre?

Tarbosaurus, the fearsome cousin of T. rex and a bunch of other superscaly, super-scary dinosaurs who’ve picked the North-East of England for their summer holiday away from the Natural History Museum in London.

Visitors to the family blockbuster Age of the Dinosaur exhibition are transported back in time more than 65 million years to a Jurassic forest and Cretaceous desert, home to some weird, wonderful and now extinct plants and animals. Catch sight of insects nestling in the rocks or behind the trees, discover real dinosaur bones and come face to face with animatronic dinosaurs as you explore these mysterious places.

Tel: 0191 243 8210, www.life.org.uk

>> Oilily Cerise jacket, £96-104, oililyshop.com/en

>> >> Oilily Calao jacket, £112-128, oililyshop.com/en

My favourite rainy day cover-ups.

Gorgeous. >> Oilily Calao jacket, £88-104, oililyshop.com/en

>> Nordic Kids Yellow Zan raincoat, £30, nordickids.co.uk

Nina’s: diary 25 MAY > 3 NOVEMBER >> AGE OF THE DINOSAUR Entry to the exhibition is included in the Science Centre ticket price along with all the other exhibitions and activities at Life. www.life.org.uk

MAY/JUN13

>> Hatley Crazy Lizards coat, £30, littlesunflowers.com

>> Hatley Pink Gingham coat, £30.95. Hatley Strawberry coat, £30, both littlesunflowers.com

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SPRING GREENS

golf:kit

A helicopter view of the golf course anyone? Tee-time has rarely been so luxe...

SURE-FOOTED >> When South African Richard Sterne won February’s Joburg Open, it wasn’t just his impressive stroke-play that turned heads – people were also quite taken with his footwear.

The 31-year-old European Tour star was sporting a dashing pair of spikeless ‘Dandy You’ Duca del Cosma golf shoes.

Stylish, bold, classy, elegant and sporty, the multi-award-winning Duca del Cosma styles bring a breath of fresh air to the golf course.

Duca del Cosma shoes are made using quality calfskin and cowhide leather, which is chromium tanned and water-repellent. The range features the brand’s renowned Airplay spikeless sole.

The top-of-the-range ladies’ Coello and men’s Corleone both feature the handmade leatherrubber composite Executive spiked sole for the more traditional brogue-style golf shoe appearance. www.ducadelcosma.com

SUPER LUXE TEE-TIME >> Start your game of golf in some style. Nira Caledonia’s new Heli-Golf package is pretty much luxe all the way. The three-night extravaganza includes private helicopter transfers from the 28-room boutique hotel in Edinburgh to tee off at two of the most prestigious championship golf courses in the world.

Enjoy a return Bentley transfer from the hotel to Edinburgh Airport to take an Execair helicopter ride to golf mecca. Test your swing with reserved tee times at the outstanding Old Course in St Andrews, known as the “Home of Golf ” for 600 years. In the afternoon, tee off at Gleneagles - famous for its three championship golf courses, including the PGA® Centenary Course Host Venue for the 2014 Ryder Cup - which offers challenges aplenty for beginners and pros alike.

After your game fly back to Edinburgh, where the newly-opened Blackwood’s Bar & Grill at Nira Caledonia will tempt hungry golfers with its organic Scottish ingredients cooked in a Josper grill oven.

The Heli Golf package costs £1,599 per person based on two double rooms and four golfers or £2,499 per person based on one double room and two golfers. www.niracaledonia.com or call 0131 225 2720

WRIST ACTION >> druh has signed up Bernd Wiesberger of Austria as a brand ambassador for its range of druh ion bracelets. druh is known first and foremost for its range of distinctive belts and buckles that have proved so popular on tour. The druh negative ion magnetic jewellery was created with Max Bio-Science to achieve a high emission rate of ions. Using the latest Japanese technology, druh ion bracelets provide the wearer with a powerful and continuous stream of negative ions to counteract the damaging effect of positive ions – or free radicals – that are so prevalent in today’s environment. It’s a fashion extra too - ion bracelets for men are in black and white whilst the ladies’ models come in a pink and turquoise. The one-size-fitsall silicone straps in similar colourways are embellished with hand-polished stainless steel features and the instantly-recognisable ‘db’ detail in enamel.

From £55. www.druhbeltsandbuckles.com

PLAY & STAY >> In need of some sun? Snap up on spa and gourmet packages at Sicily’s Donnafugata Golf Resort & Spa. The Mediterranean island’s idyllic warm climate means guests can quickly forget their winter blues, with the award-winning deluxe venue offering a range of attractive four and seven-night breaks from €101 (£90 approx) per person per night.

Visitors can enjoy a selection of relaxing spa treatments and various local culinary delights during the luxury breaks. Prices are based on two people sharing a room and Donnafugata’s ‘Gold’ package includes five-star bed and breakfast accommodation with a free Sicilian gift in your room, four massage treatments and four free two-hour sessions in the spa, which features an indoor pool, hydromassage, sauna, steam bath and gym.

In addition to enjoying one full body massage and a seasonal treatment, guests can pamper themselves by choosing two extra treatments from a list including facial cleansing; aromatherapy manicure or pedicure; Viso Alchemy massage or hot stone therapy, while a 20 per cent discount on spa products is also available.

The great-value breaks, which are available throughout 2013, are also the ideal way to sample traditional local cuisine with two three-course dinners (including drinks) and one Sicilian dinner with tasting menu and drinks also included.

Donnafugata, named Best Golf Resort in Italy in 2012 by Condé Nast Traveller magazine, boasts two 18-hole championship golf courses – the Links Course and the Gary Playerdesigned Parkland Course – with the latter being used to stage the 2011 Sicilian Open.

The resort is near to the historic town of Ragusa, the cradle of Sicilian Baroque architecture, with its neighbouring towns listed among the pearls of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Modica, Scicli and Noto.

0039 0932 914 200 or visit www.donnafugatagolfresort.com.

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LUXE LAPS FIRST LOVE >> My first car was an ex-GPO Morris 8 van which cost the princely sum of £8. I soon changed this for a Brabham Viva which had very un-nerving handling characteristics.

CHILDHOOD CAR CRUSH >> A Jaguar E Type as most young men in the 70s aspired to.

JOHN BENNETT John Bennett, 68, is a chartered civil and military engineer and retired Royal Engineer Colonel who visited 29 countries during his 30-year service. He is now Honorary Colonel of a TA Royal Signals unit in Darlington. During service he was also a professional diver working throughout the world. After leaving the Army he became Chief Executive of Tees Valley Enterprise Council. These days his main interests are hill walking, skiing, offshore sailing and charity work. He and wife Alison live near Stokesley

IN THE GARAGE NOW >> My everyday BMW535d touring which is the maid of all work. Alison has a BMW 325 which we bought new 19 years ago and is in concourse condition. My fun car is a Jensen SV8 of which only 40 chassis were produced and my car is the last true Jensen ever made.

IF YOU COULD OWN ANYTHING >> Probably a Porsche Carrera but cars are developing so quickly that tomorrow it might be a Tesla electric roadster.

CAPT SLOW OR JEREMY >> More cautious with age and experience.

Certainly more perceptive and safer (hopefully) after advanced training with ROSPA. ROAD TRIP >> Lots of long-distance trips in Europe, Australia and the Americas but the most memorable was a 19-hour non-stop (except for loos and fuel) rush back from holiday in southern Italy in an underpowered and overloaded Vauxhall Astra with three sons, windsurfers and bicycles in time to make an Army deployment.

MEMORABLE MOMENTS >> After picking up a new Mercedes I got

carried away by the peace and smoothness of the car compared to the Astra and was stopped for doing 120mph on a Belgium autoroute. Fortunately the gendarme let the polite Brit off and the car finally got run in properly.

WHAT’S IN YOUR GLOVE BOX >> Just what I need and no rubbish handbook, torch, tyre gauge, pen, single use camera and sunglasses - pretty boring.

HOW CLEAN IS YOUR CAR >> Hopefully very - who wants to drive a dirty

car unless it is a mud plugger? All three cars are lovingly looked after by Falcon Engineering in Middlesbrough who once told me off for not washing them correctly.

SCARY MOMENTS >> Apart from minor dings and being taken out by a deer in the Lakes I have only had two scary moments.

The first was when my Ford Anglia understeered off the road into a ditch

during a rally. Fortunately nobody was injured and my navigator persevered and finally married me. I then took the opportunity of some skid training on the regimental parade square, which soon became useful. Driving home after an army exercise I fell asleep and awoke with my Mk1 Capri sideways on at 60mph on a Wiltshire lane. The skid training was useful and no damage done except to my ego.

The new BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé The Ultimate Driving Machine

BEAUTY. SELDOM SEEN. THE NEW BMW 6 SERIES GRAN COUPÉ.

One glimpse of the captivating new BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé will leave a lasting impression. Our first-ever four-door coupé looks set to eclipse the competition and blends beauty with practicality. Lavishly-appointed with a carefully considered high level of standard specification, including high definition BMW Professional Multimedia Navigation, this is a car that exceeds expectations.

For more information or to arrange a test drive* please contact us on 0191 2617366 or visit www.lloydnewcastlebmw.co.uk

LLOYD NEWCASTLE

BMW EfficientDynamics

Less emissions. More driving pleasure.

Fenham Barracks, Newcastle Upon Tyne, Tyne & Wear NE2 4LE Telephone 0191 2617366 www.lloydnewcastlebmw.co.uk Official fuel economy figures for the new BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé range: Urban 22.8-40.9mpg (12.4-6.9l/100km). Extra Urban 40.9-57.6mpg (6.9-4.9l/100km).

Combined 31.7-49.6mpg (8.9-5.7l/100km). CO2 emissions 206-148g/km. BMW EfficientDynamics reduces BMW emissions without compromising performance developments and is standard across the model range. * Test drive subject to applicant status and availability.

MAY/JUN13

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easy as aMg

ready to rumble Graham Courtney is stirring up the streets in Merc’s perky AMG

Names sell cars. Okay, forget (if you can) about Ferrari, Aston Martin, Lotus etc, and stick to the mainstream stuff.

There are loads of examples of cars that are actually not very good, but people buy them because they have the right name or the right badge.

Some manufacturers, however, get a double whammy.

Mercedes Benz not only have the right name, but they also have three additional letters that will set the pulse racing.

AMG. (It stands for Aufrecht Melcher Grossaspach… Aufrecht and Melcher were engineers that were allowed to officially tune Mercedes cars. They were based in the town of Grossaspach. Now you know why they stuck with AMG) The recipe is simple. Take one stylish Mercedes-Benz car; add a sports styling kit and drop a load of additional goodies into the mix; stir the soul well with a large helping of power, noise and handling… and serve.

You end up with a car that is based on a common sense machine yet goes like a scalded cat and sounds like a herd of buffalo coming over the hill.

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We’ve been waking up the neighbours with a C63 AMG C-Class Coupé. Start the engine, set off, and everyone will know when you’ve left town. The rumble from the exhaust is glorious.

Here’s the techy stuff. Power comes from a thumping 6.3litre V8 which hurls you to 60mph in just 4.3 seconds and eventually stops accelerating at 155mph because that’s where the restrictor cuts in. This car is scaring the life out of the BMW M3 and the Audi RS5.

The 7-speed automatic gearbox is a gem. Using the paddles behind the steering wheel, you can whiz through the gears and, when the time comes to change down, the gizmos blip the throttle for you to match the revs to the speed.

Handling is like driving on rails but, while the ride is firm, it is never harsh. This latter point is where the latest AMG cars from Mercedes are different from predecessors. AMG no longer just take a car, plonk a massive engine under the bonnet and then wheel it into the showroom. They could be a handful to drive. The latest models are a doddle to drive.

It doesn’t matter whether you want to amble around town, saunter along country lanes, blast along the autoroute or fling it around a racetrack. This AMG is one of THE most useable sports coupes currently available. It’s utterly and totally brilliant.

With a price tag of £58,130 and a fuel return of around 24mpg, this car will be a rare sight on British roads, but the lucky few will know why those three letters signify a great car.

Take one stylish Mercedes Benz, add a sport styling kit, then add power, noise and handling then serve

May/JUN13

GROWLER

Original and the best The speed at which the 4x4 SUV (Sports Utility Vehicle) market is growing, is staggering. A few years ago, big 4x4s that had a serious sense of grunt, were as rare as hen’s teeth, but now most of the large manufacturers include a 4x4 as part of their model range at every single level.

Thankfully, some manufacturers continue to stick at what they’re good at. And if there’s one name that is synonymous with 4x4s, it is Jeep. Let’s face it, they’ve been building 4x4s since WW2, so they should know what they’re doing by now!

They keep things simple with 3 models in the range…

Compass, Wrangler and Grand Cherokee.

The latter model has recently been given a stunning new

addition… the Grand Cherokee S-Limited. Up until now you had the choice of two versions, both powered by a 3.0-litre, V6 diesel engine, or the stonking but hunky SRT which comes with an insanely powerful 6.4-litre V8 petrol lump.

And there’s the dilemma. Loads of potential buyers loved the look of the SRT but would much prefer the economy of the V6 Limited or Overland models. The penny finally dropped with the boffins at Jeep HQ and, bingo, they’ve taken the 3.0 engine and put it into a Grand Cherokee which takes heavy styling cues from the SRT. Priced at £44,615 it comes in at around 15 grand less than the SRT, but you get an impressive fuel return of 34mpg as opposed to 20mpg.

Okay, the S-Limited might not have the shattering performance of the SRT, but it’s still plenty quick. This big machine will cruise past the 60mph barrier in about eight

seconds and keep going to 126mph. It handles really well too; the ride is smooth and the leather seats are really comfy.

I like the Jeep Cherokee. It’s different from all of the other big 4x4s… and with the S-Limited version you get a terrific, hugely capable vehicle that looks brilliant. It sits on 20-inch alloys and comes with neat carbon fibre touches scattered around the interior, air suspension, a cracking audio system, powered tailgate, a handy gadget that monitors any blind spots, and of course legendary Jeep off-road 4x4 safety and security. In other words, the Jeep Grand Cherokee S-Limited is well equipped and looks the part.

The Jeep Cherokee has always stood out from the crowd.

It is instantly recognisable; it’s different; it’s tried and tested and, with the new Grand Cherokee S-Limited, you’ll turn heads.

ALEXANDERS

THE NEW NAME FOR JEEP IN THE NORTH EAST.

NOW AVAILABLE WITH REPRESENTATIVE 0% APR. (DEPOSIT REQUIRED)*

Now at: Alexanders. Chapel Street, Thornaby on Tees, Teesside, TS17 6BB. Tel: 01642 679781

www.jeep.co.uk

FUEL CONSUMPTION FIGURES FOR THE JEEP RANGE IN MPG (L/100KM): URBAN 13.5 (20.9) – 38.2 (7.4), EXTRA URBAN 28.0 (10.1) – 52.3 (5.4), COMBINED 20.0 (14.1) – 46. 3 (6.1). C02 EMISSIONS IN G/KM 328 – 161.

Models shown: Jeep Compass 2.0 Sport 4x2 with metallic paint at £18,065 OTR, Jeep Grand Cherokee 3.0 Limited with metallic paint at £39,285 OTR and Jeep Wrangler 2dr Overland 2.8 CRD Auto with metallic paint at £31,415 OTR. Promotion available on new Jeep Compass, Wrangler (excludes special orders) and Grand Cherokee models registered between 1st April and 30th June 2013. *Deposit required. With Advance Payment Plan the initial payment varies dependent on term, model and mileage, and is usually between 60% and 70%. You have the option to return the vehicle and not pay the final payment, subject to the vehicle not having exceeded an agreed annual mileage (a charge of 12p per mile for exceeding 10,000 miles per annum in this example for the Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Grand Cherokee and Jeep Compass) and being in good condition. Finance subject to status. Guarantees may be required. Terms and conditions apply. We work with a number of creditors including Jeep Financial Services. Jeep Financial Services, PO BOX 4465, Slough SL1 0RW. Prices and specifications correct at time of going to print (04/13). Jeep is a registered trademark of Chrysler Group LLC.

MAY/JUN13

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GOOD-LOOKER

Runway hot A cheeky styling touch creates the Alfa Giulietta Sportiva’s sporty hatchback look.

A stunning newseason piece for those with a thing about Italian styling

So, what’s in a name? Well, if it’s Alfa Romeo… a lot. There is something about the name that immediately conjures up a sense of style, flair, sport. It’s no secret that in the 1970s and 80s, Alfa struggled in the UK. They had an image problem. Then, in 1992, someone had the bright idea of entering an Alfa 155 into the British Touring Car Championship.

With Gabriele Tarquini at the wheel, the car was hugely successful.

Suddenly, Alfas became cool again and sales rocketed.

Fast forward 20 years and Alfa Romeo is again getting a boost.

The stunning 4C is just around the corner and they’ve also introduced a Sportiva trim into their range.

Take this Giulietta Sportiva for example. As five-door hatchbacks go, they don’t get any prettier. The new trim and natty, dark finish 18-inch alloy wheels give the car a distinctive look.

You get a choice of 6 engines - 3 petrol, 3 diesel. The diesel engines are responsive and economical. You can have either a 1.6JTDM which churns out 105bhp, or a choice of two 2.0 litre units which produce either 140 or 170bhp. We’ve been trying the top-of-the-range 170bhp model which tips the scales at £25,310.

As with every Alfa I’ve ever driven, it’s brilliant to drive. Alfa Romeo has a sporting heritage that goes back donkey’s years, and they manage to instil that character or DNA into their cars. The diesel engine sounds great and, via a 6-speed gearbox, produces lively performance… top speed 135mpg and a 0-60 time of 7.8 seconds, although it feels quicker. Resist the temptation to use the performance and you’ll get terrific economy in the region of 60mpg.

Don’t be fooled by the picture…this IS a 5-door car. The handles for the rear doors are cleverly concealed so as to make it look like a 3-door hatch; a neat styling touch.

The Sportiva range gets around £3000 worth of additional equipment for an extra outlay of about £1800. This means the already decent list of standard kit now gets the addition of leather seating, Bluetooth, climate control, electric windows all round, sports suspension, body kit and a really good audio system. In other words, you get a highly specified car.

All in all, this is a great car to drive and a great car to own. Alfas are different. They have a loyal band of followers. Take a Giulietta Sportiva for a test drive and you’ll see why they wouldn’t be seen in anything else.

It’s brilliant to drive. Alfa Romeo has a sporting heritage that goes back donkey’s years and they manage to instil that character into their cars

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PERFECT BALANCE

THE NEW MASERATI GRANTURISMO SPORT The new GranTurismo Sport features a number of subtle revisions to further enhance and improve the performance of this outstanding car.

Available with either 6-speed, paddle-operated MC Shift manual or MC Shift Auto fully automatic transmission, the engine has been uprated to 460 horsepower. Suspension revisions improve the ride quality without affecting the superb handling balance. Inside the GranTurismo Sport features new front seats which not only improve comfort and support, but also allow for increased rear legroom. The GranTurismo Sport offers the optimum balance between performance and comfort and perfectly expresses Maserati’s Grand Touring philosophy.

The Maserati GranTurismo Sport MC Shift Auto is priced at £90,785 on the road. The Maserati GranTurismo Sport MC Shift is priced at £94,115 on the road. On the road prices include 3 year/unlimited mileage warranty.

For more information on the Maserati range, call 0843 658 9111 or email maseratisales@benfieldmotorgroup.com Car shown Maserati GranTurismo Sport MC Shift Auto with metallic paint at £564 and 20-inch Anthracite Grey Astro design alloy wheels at £480. Official fuel consumption for the Maserati GranTurismo Sport MC Shift Auto in mpg (litres/100 km): urban 12.9 (21.9), extra urban 28.8 (9.8), combined 19.7 (14.3). CO2 emissions on combined cycle: 331 g/km.

Benfield Maserati Warwick Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 1BB Tel: 0843 658 9111 www.maserati.co.uk maseratisales@benfieldmotorgroup.com

MAY/JUN13 6227 Benfield Luxe magazine ad 251w x 348h AW.indd 1

w w w. m a s e r a t i . c o. u k

91 26/04/2013 12:58

SOCIAL LIFE

In association with:

North East

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!

Mackenzie Thorpe Exhibition, ArtsBank, Saltburn

Butterwick Hospice Ladiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Day, Hardwick Hall, Sedgefield

Right > Mel Foley, Gill Hall

Left > Helen Woods, Alison Corr

Above > Jeannie Goodall, Wendy Shepherd, Bryan Goodall Above > Alison Cullen. Amy Duncanson

Above > Mackenzie Thorpe, Susan Thorpe, Bev Lonsdale, Ray Lonsdale Above > Alison Norman, Diane Palmer, Lisa Robinson, Kelly Kaplan, Hayley Ward

Above > Sue Ford, Clair Booth, Mackenzie Thorpe, Barbara Renton-Wood

Above > Wendy Alder, Louise Ward, Alison Davies, Sue Clark

Above > Keith Miller, Paul Davison, Hannah Davison Above > Alison Proctor, Cat King, Nicola Storr

Above > George Agar, Mackenzie Thorpe

Above > Liz Starky, Sharon Todd

Community Foundation Supper Club, Middleton Lodge Right > James Allison, Daisy

Below > Chris Hope, Jan Hope, Sir Ron Norman

Left > Johnathan Baker, Catherine Rustomji

Left > Hugh McGouran, Kathryn Armstrong

Right > Bryan Goodhall Gennie Goodhall, Hugh McGouran

Below > Beverly Blackey, Ian Blackey Left > Julie Charville, Eileen Martin

Above > Jeff Taylor, Lady Norman

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Above > Peter Rowley, Hilary Rowley

MAY/JUNE13

Fashion Match, Newcastle Falcons, in aid of CHUF, Marie Curie and Chef’s Adopt A School

SOCIAL LIFE

Lobster Festival, Hardwick Hall, Sedgefield

Left > Kenny Atkinson

Left > Carol Malia, Kathryn Armstrong

Above > Rachel Davison, Brian Davison

Above > Julie Mather, Paul Mather

Above > Bethanie Clarey, Adam Parsons Above > Helen Walker, Andrew Walker, Keith Boylan, Jackie Boylan, Rob Lee

Above > Alan Shearer, Paul Ferris, Steve Harper

Above > Rachel Kay, Nicola Hickman, Karen Robinson

Above > Joy Willis, Richard Willis, Helen Maddison

Above > Rebecca Murphy, Laura Whitehead, Elizabeth Simpson, Linzi Simpson, Hollie Simpson

Above > Karen Smith, Simone Iveson, Lauren Smith, Rebecca Smith, Miriam Bell

Left > Lisa Corfield, Suzanne McKenna

Above > Mark Hutchenson, Annik Hutchenson, Teresa Duchett, Grace Duchett, Fay Duchett, Laura Murray-Watson

Above > Sarah Seymour, Liz Hobson

Preston Park Museum & Grounds official opening, Eaglescliffe

Above > Tim Krul, Vernon Anita

Above > Nick Shottell, Tracey Grey, Karin Brett, Matthew Grey

Above > Carl Sneyd, Kay Wilson, Deb McDonagh, Emma Tennant, Sue Sneyd Above > Claire Conway, Jim Conway Above > Alison Young, Katie Reavley Above > Angela O’Donnell, Lesley Pearson

Above > Sammy Ameobi, Vernon Anita, Tim Krul, Shola Ameobi

Above > Fran Joynson, Julie Leonard

Above > Deborah Cooke Chris Cooke

Left > Godfrey Worsdale, Lily WorsdaleAl-Khalidi, Alia Al-Khalidi Above > Russell Smith, Anne Smith, Tony Campbell

Jo Malone Ladies’ Lunch, Jesmond Dene House, Newcastle

Above > Debbie Simpson, Trudi Slee Above > Pauline Maxwell, Karen Little

MAY/JUN13

Above > Elizabeth Brown, Linda Bell, Carol Bell

Above > Nicky Sherman, Katie Davison, Claire Davison

Above > Helen Miller, Ann Cue, Denise Reynolds, Helen Goudie

In association with:

North East 93

SOCIAL LIFE

Wynyard Hall Blooms and Bubbly event with Stacie Stewart Left > Fiona Turner, Linda Wallis

Above > Judith Rawding, Gaynor Baker, Pauline McOnie, Jill Moore, Andrea Hutchinson, Gabby Moore.

Right > Stacie Stewart

Above > Aileen Arkley, Christine Fergus, Brenda Welsh, Elaine Mansour, Kathleen Peacock, Dorothy Ross, Julia Patterson

St Cuthbert’s Hospice Ladies’ Lunch, Radisson Blu, Durham

Above > Melissa Mackings, Roxie Ninkovic, Gemma Harris.

Official opening, The Terrace Bar, St James’ Park, Newcastle

Right > Valerie Richards, Margaret Gibson Above > Sam Doyle, Colin Perkins, Melissa Horberry

Above > Chris Reed, Colin Perkins

Above > Joan Cowelly, Katherine Humberside, Shelia Smith

Above > Adam McDougall, Alan Millan Above > Helen Jackson, Margie Moffett, Chris Bain, Flo Howel Right > Pauline Cooke, Karin Dover

Above > Renee Wilson, Janet Hoyle, Audrey Kelly, Silvia Heath Right > Barbara Kingston, Shelia Fowler

Above > Harvey Morgan, Hayley Morgan

Above > Lynn Tose, Liz Clark

Above > Brian Forrest, Joanne Forrest Left > Beth McPherson, Chris Wharton

Above > Shelia Chapman, Margaret Best, Sandra Ruskin

Above > Terry Hambleton, Judith Reed, Chris Baker

Above > James Perch, Ryan Taylor, Steven Taylor

Moorbennhall Ball, Ramside Hall Right > Adam Fenwick Nadia Abdi

Above > Joy Whitworth, Gary Whitworth

In association with:

North East 94

Above > Lynn Howles, David Howles

Above > Mark Livsey, Anne Woodhouse

Above > Christina Allen, Victoria Carr If you would like your event featured on our Luxe:Looks pages please supply images on disk with full captions and your contact details to: luxe Magazine, room501 Ltd, Spectrum 6, Spectrum Business Park, Seaham, SR7 7TT

MAY/JUN13

SOCIAL LIFE

Above > Rob Dunbar, Neil Corbett, Lee Rankin, Gary Robinson

BQ’s gathering of the region’s golfers at Rockliffe Hall in aid of room501’s charity, Variety Build a Bus, added a welcome £500 to our target to build a bus for disadvantaged youngsters.

The winning team on the day was Duco (for the second year!)

Above > Paul Davie, Jim Tweddell, Jeff Tabb, Andrew Tweddell Above > Jean Louis Rostaing, Hubert Gervais, Ross McAlpine, Steve Marjoram Above > Tracey Watson, Jane Baillie, Neal Holloway

Above > Gary Potts, Barrie Campbell, Chris McKenzie, Jonathan Cawthorn

Above > Paul Stevenson, Richard Shuter, Chris Todd, David Adams Above > Gary Duncan, Mick Noble, Dave Ward, Brian Goodlad

Above > Neil Corbett

Above > Harvey Madden, Roger Owen, Alan Hynd, Adrian Savage

Above > Adrian Holmes Morris, Kevin Todd, Graham Perry, Chris Close Above > David Fish, Andrew Love, Andrew Walker, Nick Thompson

Sponsors > Rockliffe Hall, Hotel Indigo, Chromazone, Nigel Wright Recruitment, Buxton Press, Technocopy, Santander, KPMG, PCI Services, MetroRadio/TFM, Rowlands Accountants, Roam Door to Door, BE Group, Jesmond Dene House. Thanks to Berrys Jewellers, Newcastle

Vertu Motors Masters Club Awards, Slaley Hall, Northumberland

Above > Amanda Roberts, Mick Clewes, Jennifer Bates, Arthur Bates

Loved up wedding fair @ Newcastle Racecourse

Above > Sarah Burke, Susan Burke

Above > Bianca Gray, Daniel Kelly

Above > Quentin Willson, Pat Harrison, Steve Harrison

Above > Paula Allan, Hayley Allan

Above > Anna Westwick, Terri Walker, Rachel Johnson

Above > Louise Finlayson, Katie Finlayson

Above > Stephanie Stead, Jon Gains

Above > Cynthia Gentle

Above > Michelle Kent, Colin Kent Above > Laura Priest, Simon Priest, Lynn Harris, Ian Harris

Above > Kate Owens, Shelley Owens Mary Brown

Above > Stephanie Laschke, Halle, Gareth Morgan

North East

The all new Audi A3. From only £17,905. www.northeastaudi.co.uk

Official fuel figures for the new Audi A3 range in mpg (1/100km): Urban 40.4 (7.0) – 61.4 (4.6), Extra Urban 58.9 (4.8) – 85.6 (3.3), Combined 50.4 (5.6) – 74.3 (3.8). CO2 emissions: 130 – 99g/km.

MAY/JUN13

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DOING GOOD

Good guys

Goodness, you’re a charitable bunch. Pats on backs

CHARITY >> A staggering £280,000 was raised at the Fashion Match charity fashion show held at the Newcastle Falcons to raise funds for the Children’s Heart Unit Fund, Marie Curie and the Chef’s Adopt a School charity.

Featuring some of the region’s top sports stars including Sammy and Shola Ameobi getting their kit off in the charity Cruise fashion show, and Tony Hadley belting out classics, the evening had a jam-packed entertainment programme. Top chefs from around the UK led by Terry Laybourne collaborated to create an impressive six-course menu. It was organised by NE businessmen Graham Wylie and Ian Watson of Hadrian Health Care.

BIG DAY >> It was a milestone moment for Newton Aycliffe-based Education Centre for Children with Down’s Syndrome (ECCDS) – they received a grant marking County Durham Community Foundation’s £22million donation. ECCDS runs regular weekday classes and other educational activities specifically designed for children with Down’s Syndrome. Regular sessions include speech and language skills, numeracy development and fine and gross motor skills for the 60 children who attend the centre. County Durham Community Foundation’s chief executive, Barbara Gubbins, attended the ECCDS’s Annual Celebration Evening which also gave her the opportunity to celebrate the £22 million milestone. The Education Centre has held an annual event to celebrate World Down’s Syndrome Day since it was formed in 2005, the purpose of the evening being to bring together all the children and families involved in the centre with the trustees, staff and volunteers.

Since County Durham Community Foundation was established in 1995 it has handed out over £22 million worth of grants to individuals and organisations. www.cdcf.org.uk or call 0191 3786340

SPACE PLACE >> One of Newcastle’s most iconic office developments is celebrating 40 years of providing affordable space for charities and not-for-profit organisations.

MEA House, a five-storey building at Ellison Place in Newcastle city centre, opened in the early 1970s to provide high quality, fully accessible office accommodation at competitive rents below market rate, exclusively for charitable organisations.

As MEA House reaches its 40th anniversary, it is still the only office accommodation block in the city to provide this service, and, in response to demand, has extended its criteria to enable selected local community interest companies, industrial and provident societies and other forms of social enterprise to rent space there.

MEA House has supported more than 50 organisations in its history. Many notable charities such as the Community Foundation for Tyne and Wear, St Oswald’s Hospice and Newcastle Council for the Disabled began as fledgling organisations in MEA House but later moved out as they grew in size and independence.

MEA Trust chairman Colin Seccombe said: “As we celebrate our 40th anniversary, we are very much aware of the importance of listening to fresh ideas to continually improve MEA House, and so we are always pleased to hear from potential trustees willing to spare about six days of the year to build on the excellent support that we currently benefit from.’’

For more information about MEA House, or about becoming a trustee, contact Ann Wynn, MEA Trust director and secretary on 0191 232 7783 or email ann.wynn@meatrust.co.uk

ZIPPY >> Brave fundraisers are being challenged to test their mettle by crossing the River Wear on a zip wire – all in aid of Foundation of Light, the registered charity of Sunderland AFC and North East Autism Society. The ‘Zip Wear’ challenge takes participants from the roof of the Stadium of Light across Sunderland’s famous river at speeds of up to 25 miles per hour. This years’ ‘Zip Wear’ takes place on 3&4 August and registration is just £20. Participants are also required to raise a minimum of £100 in sponsorship or alternatively places can be bought outright for £120. Contact kim.phillips@safc.com

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RESULT >>

The D2S Dublin to Sunderland cycle challenge will start on June 5 and finish five days later at the Stadium of Light.

Places for the Scotland to Sunderland Leg and the final 50-mile stretch of the challenge have now been made available.

A ‘Final 50’ package is available with riders joining the team at Alston, one of the highest towns in the UK, before riding into Sunderland via County Durham. This package includes an invite to the celebration gala dinner. www.dublintosunderland.co.uk

Big push > Geoff Mount, Dom Munnelly, Bev Blakeman, Gary McBean

NICE TRY >> Riding 1000 miles in seven days from Newcastle to Nice is a challenge and a half.

Behind it is Metro Radio’s marketing director, Dom Munnelly, who has previously ridden a number of 24-hour non-stop cycle rides. The ride will roll out of Newcastle on Friday 24 May and the team will sail to Amsterdam where they will start their challenge in earnest. Taking in Holland, Belgium and all of France, the riders will be pounding the pedals for 10 hours a day in aid of Metro Radio’s charity Cash For Kids.

“The idea came to me when I was flying to Nice last summer. I had a window seat and it was clear skies all the way, I sat there gazing down thinking the terrain looked great for bike riding. I came home from that holiday with the idea of the ride,” says Dom. The team has a fundraising target of £10,000. www.bikenewcastlenice.co.uk where you can find out more and donate.

Follow the riders on Twitter: @newcastle2nice

SALON SUCCESS >> At Sisters on Pink Lane Newcastle was hair-static to be chosen as the venue for Miranda Hart’s Comic Relief Challenge – Miranda’s Mad March, shown on the BBC’s One Show as part of the big event.

The hair and beauty salon was sworn to secrecy before the challenge, which saw Miranda given a crash course in beauty therapy before attempting a world record of completing 16 under-arm waxes in three minutes.

BIRTHDAY >>

Autism charity Daisy Chain will be ten this year. In 2003 founder Lesley Hanson envisioned a ‘haven for families affected by autism’. Her vision is now a reality for the hundreds of families that access the site in Norton every week.

To celebrate there’s a big birthday party on Friday 14th June 2013 at the Marton Country Club in Middlesbrough. Tickets are £20 and include a buffet and disco.

Details 01642 531248

HE’S OFF >> Fearless Barnard Castle fundraiser Jack White is on an epic 14,000-km bike ride which will take him through 12 African countries as he cycles from one end of the continent to the other. The 27-year-old pushed down on the pedals of ‘George’, the bike that will be his constant companion for the next six months as he pedals the scorched and potholed roads of Africa to raise money for the British charity, Farm Africa. The trip is one he has dreamed of since first setting foot on African soil during a pre-university gap year back in 2003 when he worked on a teaching project in Botswana. He fell in love with Africa and vowed that one day he would cycle the length of the continent. Sponsorship money will help to benefit Farm Africa’s work to tackle hunger in eastern Africa. The British charity is tackling acute hunger in eastern Africa not through food aid, but instead by providing smallholder farmers with the long-term skills and know-how they need to grow enough food to feed Africa’s people. www.jackcyclesafrica.moonfruit.com

GOOD DAYS >> Henry Dancer was a normal 11-year-old boy who had been at high school for only seven weeks when he was diagnosed with an aggressive form of bone cancer, osteosarcoma.

Parents Jane and Gary Nattrass have channelled their grief into creating a charity for others with their late son’s condition. Jane has now written a book that has just been published, all proceeds from the sale of which will go to their charity – Henry Dancer Days.

This heart-warming book uses the diaries kept by Jane, and regular emails sent to family and friends during Henry’s illness and lengthy hospital stays.

348 Days, the story of Henry, can be bought at Lanchester News and Post Office for £9.99 or you can also obtain a copy by emailing henrydancerdays@aol.com. £3.20 p&p For more information on Henry Dancer Days or to support the charity please visit www. henrydancerdays.co.uk www.henrydancerdays.co.uk/ To date, the charity has raised £40,000 and is currently assisting over 20 families across the UK.

MAY/JUN13

P E N U FRE SIG OR WF NO

Dive into the weekend Sign up for the FREE and fabulous Luxe Loves The Weekend and WIN your own luxurious spa stay at Helmsley’s Feversham Arms Luxe Loves The Weekend is our new weekly online taster of the magazine bringing you a ‘must-do’ briefing of good things to do in the North-east.

It’s all about making the most of your time off, whether your pleasures are in the countryside or the city. We’ll bring you a round-up of cultural foodie, family and outdoorsy events every weekend – things we know luxe readers will love.

To get you in the weekender mood we’ve teamed up with the stylish Feversham Arms in Helmsley, North Yorkshire, to offer a luxurious spa break to the winner of our prize draw.

Sign up for FREE to receive Luxe Loves The Weekend in your inbox every Thursday and your name will be entered into a draw to win this fabulous break.

The prize is an overnight stay for two people in a Spa Suite including dinner and a spa treatment. The surroundings are blissful, contemporary and so relaxed.

Lounge by the outdoor heated pool, cosy up with magazines galore in the restful spa lounge area then dip into the heat rooms.

The break includes a massage and dinner in the hotel’s acclaimed restaurant. The town of Helmsley is a great place to spend a few hours with artisan and designer shops a-plenty.

THE WINNER OF OUR ROCKLIFFE HALL COMPETITION WAS VICKY PEPYS

AWAY FROM IT ALL BOOK IT NOW WEEKENDING TIME-OUT STROLL BIT OF CHAT FEAST - STAY IN FEAST - EAT OUT

Register to receive our weekly free email update at www.luxe-magazine.co.uk/theweekend

Terms and conditions Prize is based on two adults sharing a Spa Suite.

Dinner allocation £45 per person. Spa treatment, Verbena back massage per person. Reservations subject to availability, not valid on a Saturday evening or Bank Holidays. Valid until 31st July 2013. Nontransferable and no cash alternative can be offered *Register at www.luxe-magazine.co.uk/theweekend

PARTING SHOT

Eat me > ‘Tis the season of perfect picnic nosh. Kevin Gibson got our mouths watering with this shot. He’s not saying if he ate all the pies. www.kgphotography.co.uk

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MAY/JUN13

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