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ISSUE 34 MAY/JUN15
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ISSUE 34 MAY/JUN15
j e f f b row n ’ s s ta r g ir l . S cul pt ure t rai l . Kip per s w ith L aybou rne. Flowe r p owe r f a s h i on. Wrinkl e-z ap per s . Grap e t r i p to Bordeaux. s t u n n i n g coa s ta l h omes . Par t y peo p l e. Was h ing ton DC. Art life. g o l f. l u xe l a p s . h i p h otel s . L i t t l e l uxe i n To kyo. Lux e.
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contents 8>> Do This ISSUE 34 MAY/JUN15 I’m writing this the day after the big fat shake-up that was Election 2015. Deadline day and an irresistible political thrills TV all-nighter aren’t really a recommended combination. Should have gone to bed but got sucked into the drama of Jeremy’s swing-0-meter and the pathos of defeat speeches. So after about two hours of shuteye, today has been fuelled by serious amounts of caffeine and a discreet dab of miracle eye-bag cream (about which you can read on p.55). It was made for election night, I kid you not. Bet Dimbleby had a stash under his desk. So whilst thoughts are of democracy and debate, how about we bring you a manifesto of our own. Ours is guaranteed to bring out the feel-good factor for summer. It says a yes to an investment in self for a start. Give yourself time to sit back and enjoy the good things in your life. Food lovers will be raving about the great new seafood set-up in Amble, lured to stove or barbecue by some mouth-watering recipes. Culture vultures can tick the box of choice from a line-up of fine summer candidates. Our big-hitter is the fantastic Food Trail supplement: hop in the car, campervan or train carriage and take a taste tour from York to Edinburgh. Sunny days and delicious food get everyone’s vote.
Father’s Day, race days, cultural life
16>> In Style Alana’s sense of style
22>> Father’s Day Jeff Brown and starry daughter Alice
26>> Sculpture Show Tyne Valley trail
30>> Flying Fish! Amble’s new seafood show
32>> Cool Camping Al fresco gourmet ideas
40>> Kipper Pate Nadia Baldissera talks about an amazing miracle skincare treatment on our beauty pages Her luxe things: Taking the fishing boat out for the day with my Dad back home in South Australia, catching our limits and putting on a seafood feast. Catching up with friends, old and new. In France, sitting in the sun enjoying a nice chilled glass of wine and a cheese platter.
One to make for the picnic basket
42>> Flower Girls Garden-gorgeous fashion
58>> Beachside & Bauhaus Homes making the most of the coast
74>> Bottles in Bordeaux A trip to wine country
78>> Little Luxe Nina says hello to Kitty in Tokyo
80>> Hound Dog Menswear Dog talks style
86>> Bob’s Drives
Don’t forget to clock in with us every Thursday for our lively must-read Luxe Loves The Weekend email bulletin. Sign up free at www.luxe-magazine.co.uk/theweekend
Swanky motors with Mr Arora
92>> Social Diary
Kathryn Armstrong, editor kathryn@remembermedia.co.uk Twitter: TheLuxeMagazine The luxe team Christopher March publisher chris@remembermedia.co.uk Editorial Kathryn Armstrong editorial director kathryn@remembermedia.co.uk Katharine Capocci Fiona McLain Elysia Agnew Sales Lisa Anderson account director lisa@remembermedia.co.uk Debi Coldwell account director debi@remembermedia.co.uk
Menswear Dog is a style-savvy hound who likes dressing up and has inspired a cult book and blog. His luxe things: a pair of Ray-Ban’s, a good bottle of conditioner for silky soft grooming and a Breton T-shirt for sailing days.
Photography Kevin Gibson info@kgphotography.co.uk Nicky Rogerson nicky@nrphotography.co.uk Design Remember Media If you wish to advertise with us please contact our sales team: Lisa Anderson: lisa@remembermedia.co.uk / 07734 560565 or Debi Coldwell: debi@remembermedia.co.uk / 07910 918366
17 Ashdale, Mount Pleasant DH4 7SL remembermedia.co.uk All contents copyright ©2015 RememberMedia Ltd. All rights reserved. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, no responsibility can be accepted for inaccuracies, howsoever caused. No liability can be accepted for illustrations, photographs, artwork or advertising materials while in transmission or with the publisher or their agents. All information is correct at time of going to print, May 2015.
Eva Meenhorst has taken her art to fabrics for a new clothing range. Her luxe things: A trip around the world with my family; creating something beautiful, and a weekend away with my girlfriends.
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MAY/JUN15
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LUXE LOVES LIFE
LUXE LOVES Grab bag We love the summery sky blue of Orla Kiely’s new season sling bag. Wear it well and keep your important stuff safe. £119. www.amara.com
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MAY/JUN15
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LUXE LIFE
STEPHEN ROSE Tax returns and tippy-toes are in a day’s work for Stephen, co-owner of Finch Capital. He’s a Strictly Come Dancing devotee whose other kicks come from telling a client they’re due a tax return. He works on Teesside and lives in Nunthorpe
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LUXE PEOPLE >> My fiancée Denise, my family and close friends. LUXE PLACES >> For a weekend > New York City, such an exciting place to be at any time of the year. We took a helicopter ride on one of my, er, special birthdays. Highly recommended. A long holiday > A cruise around the Med is something we like to do, seeing a new place every day keeps us both occupied. Monaco is notable for the posh cars and casinos with Portofino and the Amalfi coastline standouts for their sheer scenic beauty. LUXE RELAX >> Best food > Has to be a home-cooked Sunday lunch; is there anything better than that? Not for me. It’s something I had as a boy and continue to love as a man. And will probably still love as an old man... although that’s years away yet. Best wine > I’m not a wine drinker per se, so I’ll cheekily exchange that question to ‘best hotel’: the Waldorf Astoria in NYC. So much history and heritage, plus, it’s a cool place to be. (I wouldn’t recommend their salad though, bit basic). Favourite restaurant > The River Café overlooking the Manhattan skyline in NYC. The city is a recurring theme here isn’t it! The location and skyline vista complement some superb contemporary food. Perfect weekend > Every weekend tends to be the perfect weekend because it’s time off work and a chance to relax. We’re ballroom dancers so are often out practising at weekends. Best telly > Strictly Come Dancing, bit of an inspirational show to us. We’ve entered competitions ourselves and even won a few trophies which we tend to hide away centre-stage on our fireplace.
Best book > High Stakes (How I Blew 14 Million) by Nigel Goldman. I met the author, Nigel, whilst reading The Wolf of Wall Street on one of our Med cruises. He boasted he knew of a much better and far more exuberant book, his own! To be fair, it was a very good read for anyone interested in gambling with high-stakes money. Best sounds > A group B Audi Quattro, racing through Dalby Forest in the 1982 RAC Rally, a frightening but brilliant sound that’s stayed with me and inspired me to take up rally driving myself. LUXE SHOP >> Best shopping centre > 5th Avenue New York. I was going to write, ‘The Cleveland Centre’ in Middlesbrough but I think 5th Avenue just beats it for more variety. Favourite shop > Every suit shop on Savile Row. I do like a sharp suit. Luxe retail treat > A nice tie. Best buy > Savile Row Chester Barrie chalk-stripe 3-piece suit, reduced from £1495 to £295! (I also like a bargain). LUXE PARTY >> A memorable night out > See perfect party, below. Perfect party > River Café New York and Broadway show for a big birthday. Best outfit > You may have gathered I enjoy ballroom dancing, so my dancing tails of course. Dinner date > My fiancée, Denise, and definitely not anyone glamorous from Hollywood. Your LUXE THING IN LIFE >> Well, we all like to dream - and so: Lamborghini Aventador or Ferrari 458. I’m not fussy, either will do! www.finchcapital.co.uk
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DO THIS
Stay in >> go out >> enjoy Get your summer culture calendar sorted. Elysia Agnew tracks down the highlights 22 MAY-5 OCTOBER The sun’s out so its time to kick off your sandals and enjoy a bit of the Quayside Seaside. Newcastle’s pop-up beach promises to be bigger and better than ever. You’ll even be able to get chills from an official ice cream merchant as you take in the delights of the sunny Quayside. The beach returns for the summer season to enjoy until October.
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International exhibition GAME ON 2.0 opens at Life in May, the world’s biggest collection of playable computer games from the past 60 years. You can explore the vibrant history, culture and future of gaming entertainment and technology through more than 100 playable games. So whether you remember the arcade games of the 70s, are a fan of Mario or Minecraft - or would just like to understand why your friends and family are so obsessed with computer games - there’ll be something for you. www.life.org.uk
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A splash of Italian vintage hits York with Italian King of Vintage A.N.G.E.L.O at McArthurGlen York Designer Outlet. See the largest archive of vintage fashion in Europe with a series of exclusive pop-ups showcasing his vintage fashion collections, alongside a curated Timeless Style exhibition celebrating style through the ages. Shoppers will discover hand-picked treasures of the fashion world from the iconic Gucci Bamboo bag and Yves Saint Laurent safari jacket, to the ageless Chanel quilted chained bag and further beautiful creations from the 40s to the 90s. There will also be a rare edit of striking designs worn by celebrity idols including: 60s pin-up Jane ‘Barbarella’ Fonda, American bombshell Marilyn Monroe and the original bespoke, hand-made Hermès bag inspired and created for Jane Birkin. A pop-up boutique is the place to hunt down pieces from the likes of Chanel, Hèrmes, Dior, Versace, Céline. The shrine to vintage will house exquisite collector’s items from famous Italian tailors to masters of Parisian haute couture, allowing fashion aficionados to make a piece of history their own. Throughout the festival, VIP shoppers will receive a complimentary limited edition vintage A.N.G.E.L.O. scarf. There will also be the chance to get exclusive invites to the VIP events when registering online on the McArthurGlen website. www.mcarthurglen.com
MAY
Katherine Ryan embarks on her second UK stand-up tour. The witty, pop-culture obsessed Canadian comes to The Gala Theatre this May. Famous for her appearances on Live At The Apollo, Mock The Week, Never Mind The Buzzcocks and 8 Out of 10 Cats, the up and coming comedian has a striking presence with her killer lines and calm confidence. www.galadurham.co.uk
Celebrate the very best Yorkshire produce at Malton Food Lovers Festival. Set up in the streets of Yorkshire’s food capital, this free festival is ‘the’ place to be for foodies of the North. There will be a variety of special ticketed events taking place throughout the weekend. It’s your time to celebrate all things northern and delicious. www.maltonyorkshire.co.uk/food-loversfestival
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‘Middlesbrough Does Vintage’ this summer brings more than 30 stalls of vintage fashion and homeware to the Town Hall. Vintage lovers can enjoy browsing the stalls of classic clothing, jewellery and fabulous one-off finds. After diving into the busy rails of vintage goodness, take the weight off your feet and have a tea break whilst listening to some live, vintage-inspired performances. www.visitmiddlesbrough.com/whats-on
MAY
Take part in an evening of excitement this May. There’s a phantom lurking in the grounds of Rockliffe Hall - maybe even a murderer? Can you be the best detective on the night and solve the secret of Rockliffe in The Phantom of the Opera Murder Mystery? The evening includes a two-course dinner and clues into the biggest mystery of the North East. www.rockliffehall.com
23&24 MAY Enjoy a Bank Holiday toast at Leeds’s first ever ‘pop-up’ International Wine Festival. Following the success of the annual Leeds International Beer Festival, Leeds Town Hall celebrates the best of the wine industry as local and international suppliers showcase their wine. You’ll be the judge of 100 wines from 12 different countries, you’ll meet the experts and you’ll enjoy live music and entertainment. The all-day event will give wine lovers access to 10 hours of unlimited wine tasting and industry expertise. You will also be able to order your favourite wines at discounted prices. www.grapefulleeds.com
The award-winning master of psychological illusion, Derren Brown is back this year with a brand new one-man show, Miracle. The dark manipulator of magic and mind control is one of the world’s most famous live performers and he will be bringing his seventh tour since 2003 to The Sunderland Empire this May. www.atgtickets.com
Eat treats 23 MAY
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23-24 MAY
Spend some time with the gin trolley at the new Chadwick & Co coffee house and kitchen which takes in-store eating and drinking to a new level. The venture at the new Barker&Stonehouse store at Teesside Park is headed up by one of Teesside’s top restaurateurs, Daryl Chadwick. Daryl has been behind some of Teesside’s best-loved restaurants, including D. P. Chadwick’s which opened in Yarm in 1992 and Café Lilli in Norton, where he was co-owner for the last ten years. Chef and business partner Nathan Baker also joins the team, keeping the emphasis on sourcing fresh, local ingredients including organic, stone-ground flour and dairy produce, Phil Twizell eggs, Godfrey’s proper cured bacon, meat
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MAY
from Halls of Sedgefield and fresh fish from Alan Hodgson. Nathan was previously a chef at Café Lilli, Wynyard Hall and Michelin-starred restaurants in London and Leeds. The daytime menu will include traditional café fare with a twist, such as roast ham sandwiches with truffled pease pudding, while the contemporary kitchen menu will change daily with more substantial dishes. Bread is baked on the premises and there’s a selection of wines, champagne, aperitifs and local beers. A gin trolley will be doing the rounds when the shopping gets too much. Daryl says: “Our approach will be like that of my previous restaurants. I will be serving local, handmade, artisan produce as much as possible.”
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Live the Rockliffe life Rockliffe Hall is the North East’s leading hotel, spa and golf resort. Relax and enjoy the five-star style, surroundings and service with five-star events to match. The 2015 events calendar promises lots of variety whether you fancy lunching with the ladies, solving a murder mystery or to get your dancing shoes on there is something to suit everyone at Rockliffe Hall.
The Phantom of the Opera Murder Mystery Night
Calendar Girls Ladies Lunch
Saturday 23rd May 2015
Monday 1st June 2015
Set to be a night of excitement, the Phantom, even possibly a murder? Can you be the best detective on the night? Join us in the Rockliffe Suite for our first murder mystery night.
We are delighted to welcome Angela Baker (Miss February) and Christine Clancy (Miss September) of Calendar Girls to Rockliffe Hall to share their story with us at this very special ladies lunch event.
£45 per person Includes Murder Mystery evening and 2-course meal
£24.50 per person Includes a welcome drink and 2-course lunch
The Counterfeit Beatles Friday 12th June 2015 Step back to the 60’s as one of the UK’s leading Beatles tribute bands heads to Rockliffe Hall. Enjoy an evening of all the classic Beatles songs, with psychedelic coloured guitars famously synonymous with the original Beatles. £65 per person Includes 2-course dinner
Royal Ascot Comes to Rockliffe Hall Saturday 20th June 2015 The races are always an event where the hats are big, the food and drink is plentiful and the adrenalin is flowing and The Royal Ascot Races Day at Rockliffe Hall is no exception. £99 per person Includes champagne and canapés, lunch and evening BBQ
To find out more or to book your place, please call 01325 729999 or email enquiries@rockliffehall.com
www.rockliffehall.com Hurworth-on-Tees Darlington County Durham DL2 2DU +44 (0)1325 729999 enquiries@rockliffehall.com
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WEALTH MANAGEMENT with JOHN DANCE
30-31 MAY St James’ Park hosts The Super League Magic Weekend this May. A summer spectacular with six massive games and two days of all the entertainment you can imagine. It’s not just a sporting event, it’s packed with extraordinary athletes, exceptional entertainment and a once-in-a-lifetime occasion. www.newcastlegateshead.com/ whats-on
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Jools Holland returns to Middlesbrough Town Hall this May following a sold-out show in 2014. His Rhythm & Blues makes a very welcome return to Teesside and it promises to be one of this season’s Town Hall highlights. With a band featuring Squeeze drummer Gilson Lavis and the voices of Ruby Turner and Louise Marshall, the show guarantees a magnificent and memorable night for all. www.middlesbroughtownhallonline.co.uk/ whats-on
JUNE
Prepare to be blown away as Calendar Girl Angela Baker hosts a very special ladies lunch at Rockliffe Hall. The infamous Calendar Girls have raised over £3 million for Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research and their inspirational story has been transformed into both a film and a stage production. Angela shares her story over a special ladies lunch with a fundraising raffle. www.rockliffehall.com
The currency question With the Bank of England (BoE) and US Federal Reserve seemingly on the path to raising interest rates at some point in the next 18 months, much work has been put into analysing and mitigating the risk posed to investment portfolios. The direct effects on the Fixed Income component of client portfolios has been the primary concern for most; however, it has already challenged investors to analyse the secondary aspect of currency exposure and its impact on prospective equity returns. Although this work is perpetual in nature, it has paid handsomely in many cases to use active currency hedging whilst holding overseas assets over the past year. European equities provide perhaps the most evident case in point this year due to the divergence of monetary policy at the European Central Bank (ECB) and that expected to be implemented by the BoE and Federal Reserve. In local currency terms the Euro Stoxx (a prominent European equity index) has left investors with a total return in the region of 18.6% over the first quarter. Investors based in the UK experienced a drag due to a depreciating euro versus the pound and were left with a 10.6% return, whereas those in the US were left short changed with 5.3%. The most notable event over the first quarter has been the initiation of the ECB’s full Quantitative Easing programme in March which sparked a rally in the equity market and a significant depreciation of the euro. Looking further back, the expansion of Quantitative Easing by the Bank of Japan in October put the yen under pressure and a similar scenario can be shown for Japanese equities. With summer rapidly approaching, the prospect of taking advantage of these aggressive currency swings whilst also enjoying a holiday is something that generates excitement for many of us. Although here a caveat is needed, a depreciated currency is associated with the goal of importing inflation from abroad and as such prices experienced when you land can largely mitigate the gains you thought you made on your travel money. However in a world of low inflation and for those with flexibility, opportunities do arise when a currency depreciates rapidly in a moribund economic environment. A number of examples spring to mind; the Russian ruble has encountered a torrid time over the last year for obvious reasons, although its volatile nature (leading travel currency companies to suspend direct trading with retail clients) and high inflation rate (16.9%) has led us to rule out sightseeing at the Kremlin this summer. Greece is another obvious choice, although advice from the Foreign Office is to take plenty of hard currency due to the potential for the electronic payment system to be halted in the event of capital controls. For many a more moderate decision is to be considered, for example between the US and Europe. Since June last year the dollar has appreciated by around 8% (at the time of writing 1.54 GBP/USD), with a peak to trough move of almost 15%, making it a much more expensive destination. Closer to home the euro has weakened by around 12% over the same time period, and with the preliminary March inflation figure showing flat prices year over year and a core rate of 0.6% many of those in our office will be packing for a short-haul flight this summer.
John Dance is CEO and Chief Investment Officer at Vertem Asset Management. The Gresham, 92 Osborne Road, Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 2TD. Call 0191 341 0280 or email johnd@vertem.co.uk Visit www.vertem.co.uk
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2-6 JUNE The fabulous songs of the Golden Age of Hollywood are recreated into an all-singing all-dancing production of Puttin’ On The Ritz. Special guests include pop sensation and Strictly Come Dancing star Pixie Lott, and Strictly professionals Krtistina Rihanoff and Robin Windsor who will wow you with their ballroom skills and colourful costumes. Puttin’ On The Ritz will take you on a wonderful musical journey with songs such as, Night and Day, I Got Rhythm, Easter Parade and Puttin On The Ritz. www.theatreroyal.co.uk
5-6 JUNE Celebrate all that is great about food, drink, music and art at The Boiler Shop Steamer. The vibrant, monthly event brings together some of the UK’s finest street food vendors and the best bands and DJs come to town. The Boiler Shop Steamer is one of the North East’s most unique events full of flavours, sounds, aromas and energy. A must for your summer social calendar! www.theboilershopsteamer.com
4 JUNE Join in on a celebration of 50 magnificent years of Motown. Featuring the music of Diana Ross, Lionel Richie, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder and the Supremes. The legends of the music that makes you move lives on in this sophisticated musical. Glittering costumes, back-to-back Motown classics and superb musicians will have you singing and dancing your way through this Motown spectacular. www.atgtickets.com
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Elvis Costello hits the road and finds himself at Sage for an intimate solo show as part of his latest tour. www.sagegateshead.com
5 JUNE An Evening of Burlesque goes global. The biggest burlesque legends from around the world come together for the first time ever at the Sunderland Empire this June. Jam-packed with worldwide stars and speciality acts, join in on the cheekiest show of the year as you delve into the wonderful world of burlesque. In this truly unique production, naughty has never been so nice! www.atgtickets.com
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raise a glass
9-20 JUNE
ROCKLIFFE LIFE We love the summer here at Rockliffe, time for some entertaining events… Next up on June 1, if it’s good enough for Gary Barlow….! The whole world has heard of them and now Take That star, Gary Barlow, has been wowed by them and is turning their story into a musical. And one of the Calendar Girls, Angela Baker, will be joining the ladies who lunch at Rockliffe Hall to share her unique experiences from when it all began in 1998 to the making of the calendar and raising millions for charity. For fans of a blockbuster, we’ve a unique evening with Lord Archer talking about his life as an author. Have the chance to ask your own questions when Jeffrey visits Rockliffe Hall as a one-off, special visit, to support the Beefy Foundation and his good friend Sir Ian Botham who is celebrating the 30th anniversary of his charity fundraising. We’ve also got the helicopter on standby for a very stylish way to enjoy the forthcoming Yves St Laurent exhibition heading for the Bowes Museum in July. A dazzling accessory if ever there was one. Take a look at www.rockliffehall.com for more details Here’s a selection of photographs from our ‘Ladies Too Busy to Lunch’ event with manicurist-to-the-stars, Laura Maddock, showcasing the latest nail trends for the summer and fashion from Leggs of Darlington.
LADIES TOO BUSY TO LUNCH, Rockliffe hall
Above > Laura Maddock, Keeley Goodwin
Above > Ellie Farrow, Lauren Collinson Above > Jill Lambert, Donna Cole
Audiences will be transported to the French Riviera and its decadent underworld when Dirty Rotten Scoundrels hits Sunderland, direct from the West End. Based on the classic comedy film starring Michael Caine and Steve Martin, this is a very funny, utterly charming, feelgood musical. Sophisticated and suave with more than a dash of mischief, it follows swindlers, Lawrence and Freddy, as they attempt to hoodwink a millionaire heiress, as the pair compete in the true art of the con. Soon realising the town ain’t big enough for the both of them, the two find themselves going head to head in the con of their lives. Little do they know what they’ve let themselves in for. Luxe caught the critically-acclaimed show at the Savoy Theatre in London, where it ran for a year to rave reviews and received an Olivier nomination for Best Choreography. Big blousy numbers like Give Them What They Want and Great Big Stuff are great fun and handled with panache. The national tour of the Best New Musical of 2014, stars Michael Praed (Robin Hood in Robin of Sherwood) as Lawrence, Noel Sullivan (from pop group Hear’Say) as Freddy, Carley Stenson (Hollyoaks) as Christine and the wonderful Mark Benton as Andre. North-Easterner Mark has had a prolific TV career with roles in everything from Kavanagh QC, and Doctor Who to Strictly Come Dancing. Don’t miss it. *Tickets from the Box Office on High Street West, Sunderland, the Ticket Centre on 0844 871 3022 and online at www.ATGtickets.com/Sunderland
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13&14 JUNE
Golf fans from across the North East can look forward to watching the leading European Senior Tour players in action. This year’s ISPS Handa PGA Seniors Championship venue is Close House. It is the oldest event on the European Senior Tour calendar and will feature many golfing favourites such as Sandy Lyle, Sam Torrance, Ian Woosnam and Gary Wolstenholme. www.closehouse.com
Medieval Mischief celebrates the 800th anniversary of the signing of the Magna Carta and the relaunch of Newcastle Castle, where the event will be held. Come along to find out about Medieval folk and magic. With gift stalls, food stalls, activities, demonstrations, music and heritage crafts. www.newcastlegateshead.com/whats-on
13&14 JUNE Take to the water for the 2015 Durham Regatta which will take place on the 13 and 14 June. The origins of Durham Regatta are closely tied with the commemorations to honour the “glorious victory” at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. To celebrate the bi-centenary of the Battle a number of special waterborne activities are planned. www.durham-regatta.org.uk
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Teesside’s favourite funny man is back in town! Patrick Monahan’s brand new family show comes home this June at Middlesbrough’s Town Hall. Expect lots of playful audience interaction from the lovable Teessider. You’ve seen him on Let’s Dance for Comic Relief and Splash, but it’s live onstage where he truly shines, and what’s more, in his beloved hometown. www.middlesbroughtownhallonline.co.uk/ whats-on
18-20 JUNE The North East’s biggest and best beer and cider festival is back! Tynedale Beer & Cider Festival takes place at Tynedale Park in Corbridge and brings you the best beers and ciders that the region has to offer. Across three days in June, not only will you enjoy the UK’s most delightful beers and ciders, there will also be great wine, delicious food and live music to get you dancing in the sunshine. www.tynedalebeerfestival.org.uk
Above > Linda Rennison, Anne Above > Catherine Lyon, Hardcastle Karen Horne, Dot Horne
Above > Katie Challis, Lucy Dunn
Above > Rebecca Adams, Sally Above > Jenny Radmore, Adams, Pam Adams, Susie Jasmin Schibach, Rosalie Lawrence, Barbara Lawrence Philip
Living the Rockliffe Life! Rockliffe Hall, Hurworth-on-Tees, Darlington, County Durham DL2 2DU. Tel: 01325 729999 www.rockliffehall.com
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Teesside, you’re in for a comedy treat this summer. Top comedian and game show genius Paul Sinha is hosting an exclusive Edinburgh Festival preview at Stockton’s ARC this June. Our favourite Chaser, The Sinnerman is also a huge stand-up favourite - his preview is not to be missed! www.arconline.co.uk/whats-on
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ADVERTORIAL
Can Living on the Costas Cost Your Marriage? The world is getting smaller, international travel and work are more accessible and people generally are much more international. It has become increasingly common for people to spend periods of time working abroad, retiring abroad, or to have a relationship with a person from another country. International families are now common, but the international element can cause complications and problems if the relationship ends. Even if you both live in this country but have property or other assets in another country, the situation can be complex. Knowing which country’s laws apply and what those laws are is vital, but getting the right advice and support at an early stage is not always straightforward when faced with a different language, different customs and local processes. Getting early, authoritative advice can be a game changer in many situations, particularly where the parties are residing in a country where the relevant laws are particularly prejudicial to one of the parties. Knowing which country’s laws apply and whether there is a choice of jurisdiction (which country’s courts are entitled to deal with the application) can affect a number of aspects to the relationship breakdown from where to commence divorce proceedings (and why), to the right to return home with the children, and entitlement to financial provision. What may come as a surprise is that for the purposes of family law, anything outside of England & Wales is considered a different jurisdiction and is subject to different
laws, even Scotland. Holiday home in the Highlands? Even that could be affected by the differing laws between Scotland and England & Wales. Further afield, it may become more complicated still. Forum shopping, as it’s known, is the process of deciding between applicable countries’ legal systems in which to issue legal proceedings depending on which is deemed to be the most advantageous to the applicant’s situation. Whilst this may sound terribly cynical, some couples spend vast amounts of money in legal arguments as to where divorce proceedings should be heard because so much is at stake. In fact, within the EU (except for Denmark), European legislation has determined that the country in which proceedings are first issued will have jurisdiction, and therefore, it can become a race to issue proceedings before the other party to ensure a favourable jurisdiction. With almost three times more British people living as expats in Spain than any other EU country, this is especially relevant. Having recognised this, Major Family Law ensure that their clients have access to immediate and expert advice specific to their individual circumstances. Advice and representation is available from our team of expert lawyers even if the parties are resident abroad, thanks to our use of Skype, Facetime, video conferencing and other digital means of communication. In addition, we are uniquely placed to offer clients local support and advice on Spanish law thanks to our reciprocal relationship with an established firm of Spanish lawyers who have branches in Madrid, Malaga and Marbella as well as internationally, ensuring that Spanish resident expats
can access the advice they need locally from English speaking lawyers in addition to our advice on English law. With a reputation for expertise in high net worth financial cases, and matters involving complex business issues, we can advise on all aspects of family and matrimonial law. Our experience in dealing with cross-border issues and our ability to conduct cases with clients based nationally and internationally make us the first port of call in international waters.
Joanne Major is the Principal at Major Family Law, the Divorce and Family Law Specialists, 12 West Road, Ponteland, Newcastle Upon Tyne. T: 01661 82 45 82 www.majorfamilylaw.co.uk. Twitter: @majorfamilylaw
Specialist divorce and family lawyers 01661 82 45 82 enquiries@majorfamilylaw.co.uk www.majorfamilylaw.co.uk
Last few places remaining for September Award winning Sixth Form
ISI rated ‘excellent’ in Early Years provision
County champions Hockey and Netball 2015 Small class sizes.
Contact us to arrange a visit and see why parents describe Teesside High as ‘Education as it should be’ www.teessidehigh.co.uk 01642 782095
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DAD’S DAY ROUND-UP
17 MAY-1 AUGUST Treat your dad to a day of foraging this Father’s Day. Close to the market town of Boroughbridge he will pick out the tastiest and most fascinating wild foods of the season. Heading into the woods he can learn how to identify edible plants, nuts, flowers, seeds and fungi that grow at our feet in our wonderful British countryside. In no time your old man will learn how to prepare and transform foraged foods into tasty dishes. The course includes drinks, snacks and a lunch based around the wild ingredient. www.tastethewild.co.uk
21 JUNE Enjoy a fun and food-filled Father’s Day for the whole family at Slaley Hall this year. There’s entertainment to keep the kids happy and a choice of archery or crack shot to keep the big kids happy. A little thank you gift for dad will be included in the lunch. Your dad will be spoilt for choice at Slaley Hall this Father’s Day, with the option of a Sunday roast, afternoon tea in the drawing room or a three-course lunch in Dukes Grill. www.qhotels.co.uk/our-locations/ slaley-hall
21 JUNE Ever wondered how you would have fared during the war? Evacuation, air raids and rationing - find out what life was really like during WWII this Father’s Day as Belsay Hall hosts a home front themed soldiers day for dads and kids. Treat your dad to something different this year - the day promises to be fun and educational for everyone involved. www.newcastlegateshead.com/whats-on
21 June At Wynyard Hall Father’s Day starts with a family photograph overlooking the lake, then enjoy a family BBQ and fun activities including laser clay shooting. Your Dad can enjoy a pint of beer, lager or cider as he goes. Call 01740 665406 to book or email events@wynyardhall.co.uk
21 JUNE Is your dad a bit of a petrolhead? The 45th Beamish Safety and Reliability Run is taking place on Father’s Day this year. www.beamish.org.uk
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Emirates Durham ICG will be hosting the Fifth and Final Royal London One Day International between England and New Zealand. It’s your chance to see some of the biggest names in world cricket. The all-day event promises to be a thrilling one with entertainment for the entire family who may not be cricket lovers. Come along and see England in action in the North East this summer! www.durhamccc.co.uk/pages/internationalcricket
20 JUNE Celebrate 35 years with The Blues Band at The Sage this June. Paul Jones, Dave Kelly, Tom McGuinness, Rob Townsend and Gary Fletcher are still dazzling audiences with their showmanship and virtuosity. With around 20 successful albums and thousands of appearances around the world, The Blues Band have become one of the finest traditional blues bands. Not to be missed! www.sagegateshead.com
18-19 MAY / 26 JUNE Take That return to the Metro Radio Arena this summer. Defined by some of the most memorable and spectacular live shows in the UK, North East fans can now look forward to 3 wonderful nights of Gary Barlow, Mark Owen and Howard Donald. From 60ft robots to giant elephants, the band’s productions have never failed to excite their audience and this tour is sure to be no exception. Special guest Ella Henderson will support the band with her debut album ‘Chapter One’. www.metroradioarena.co.uk
Trolley good stuff
Norwegian artist Ida Ekblad’s works use a discarded wire shopping trolley as a starting point. Working with found materials, she exploits the chance element of this approach. Ekblad’s exhibition at BALTIC is her first solo presentation in the UK. The exhibition centres on a group of sculptures designed as a stage set for the play, Constellations 2012. Since 2008 Ekblad has searched for materials on unplanned journeys, ‘dérives’, or ‘drifts’ which have taken her to scrapyards around the world, places she finds hauntingly beautiful with twisted, now functionless, metal corpses evocative of the passing of life. At BALTIC until August. www.balticmill.com
RACE DAY ROUND-UP 12-13 JUNE It’s time to dress up and celebrate the summer on the lawns and champagne terraces of York Racecourse. Enjoy top class racing whilst raising money for charities such as Macmillan Cancer Support this June. Since 1971 this event has raised over £6 million for charity and promises to provide an exciting weekend of drinking, eating, racing and sunshine - all for a great cause. Friday’s first race is set that little bit later this year, giving racegoers the chance to say “cheers” to the weekend with some Friday afternoon racing after work. www.yorkracecourse.co.uk
20 JUNE Royal Ascot comes to Rockliffe Hall this summer. If you can’t make it down to Ascot itself then there is only one other place to watch it! Dress to impress with your best formal daywear. The hats will be big and the food and drink will be flowing. You’ll be treated to a fourcourse lunch, an evening BBQ and a night of dancing. www.rockliffehall.com
and one-off race goers. www.newcastlegateshead.com/whats-on
25 JULY Collingwood Insurance Ladies Day is one of the biggest and most glamorous social events in the North East calendar. It brings more than 20,000 visitors to High Gosforth Park for a day of racing, fashion and champagne. Pull out your best dress and enjoy the most exciting race day of the season! www.newcastle-racecourse.co.uk/ ladies-day
25-27 JUNE The Northumberland Plate Festival is the North East’s version of Royal Ascot, but with a more relaxed and informal atmosphere. The three-day racing event is an excuse for the ladies to get dressed up and attracts a diverse crowd of regular
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Thousands of people will celebrate all things cycling in the Sky Ride NewcastleGateshead event this June. With something for everyone, it will be a brilliant day out for the family. Whether you are looking to take part in the ride, challenge your friends in the Sprint Zone, or simply enjoy the music, entertainment and competitions on offer. Don’t miss out as Sky Ride NewcastleGateshead rolls into town this summer. Ability and age doesn’t count at this event, it’s all about hopping on your bike and having fun! www.newcastlegateshead.com
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Northallerton’s cosy Homegrown Food Festival is growing with a taste-fest of stalls including Richmond Brewing Company, Big D’s BBQ, Thompson’s Butchers, Casa Rustica, Yorkshire Dales Ice Cream, Olivia’s Artisan Bakery. As well as the wide variety of stallholders, including local food producers, restaurants and cafes, farmers and more, other activities at the free event include a Food Theatre featuring award-winning chefs soon to be announced, the Tipple Tent serving locally-brewed beers, spirits and wines, a Kids’ Kitchen with fun, interactive cookery workshops for children, two stages of live, local music and the Grow Zone, a community garden to encourage people to grow their own fruit, vegetables and herbs, no matter how small their garden. Celebrity chefs are to be announced in the coming weeks. Last year, Yorkshire-born chef, Brian Turner, entertained the crowds and was joined by, amongst others, Paul Jackson from the acclaimed Hare Inn at Scawton and Kirsty Cruickshank, creator of the For the Love of Fish Cookery School. www.homegrownfoodfest.co.uk
AUGUST Help yourself to a touch of Tom Jones when he brings his hip-swaying style to Alnwick Castle on August 8. The Voice judge will perform a repertoire from a career that has spanned decades of pop music with some memorable mixes, hits and show-stopping classics. www.ticketmaster.com and www.skiddle.com
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redhouseschool.co.uk
IMAIDNVEBNETAUSRnTEursery tamarintisrbeeadsctrahhftousnutsa,nesdtosrinygtienlgling, &
ed 2-4
Come and have fun in our friendly and happy Nursery where you and your child can become mini beast explorers. The afternoon will be full of interactive activities including a mini beast hunt in the nursery garden, singing, arts & crafts and storytelling. There will be healthy refreshments for children and parents too! Booking is essential as places are limited. Contact Mrs Rosalind Green, School Secretary. Tel: 01642 535353 Email: rosalind.green@redhouseschool.co.uk
Children ag
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pm
– 3.0 0pm
INDEPENDENT NURSERY & INFANT SCHOOL The Old Vicarage | The Green | Norton | Stockton-on-Tees | TS20 1EQ
T: 01642 535353 | E: rosalind.g reen@redhouseschool.co.uk
LUXE LIFE
Alana Jane Sellers After reading “Overdressed” by Elizabeth Cline, Alana had an epiphany. “My wardrobe was full of fast fashion items that never really reflected me, who I am, or what I love, and having so many items shoved in the back of a drawer represents a huge waste of resource, both financially and environmentally.” She says that on average women wear only 20% of their wardrobe. “When you don’t have confidence in your shape, your colouring, your own style, it’s hard to invest more in pieces you love. “Learning how to dress for my shape was so liberating. Instead of thinking I was too fat/short/pale, I realised there’s a key to all this and it’s understanding how to work in harmony with your own shape and colouring, instead of constantly wishing we looked different. “I stopped berating my figure, and embraced my own style, rather than chasing never-ending trends (in the wise words of Yves Saint Laurent, “fashions fade, style is eternal”). Alana says most of the women she meets are really unhappy with the state of their wardrobe, so she helps them create something that works, whilst helping them feel absolutely incredible about themselves every day. Bascially, if you don’t love it, don’t wear it. ‘it’s about a woman’s personal taste, lifestyle and I create outfit combinations that really reflect that. No more stressy-messy wardrobes. It’s pure wardrobe Zen and total body-confidence.’ With a zealous mission to help women feel great about themselves she says women are too hard on themselves. “When we try something on, we always say; ‘it’s because my hips are too big/my legs are too short/I need to lose weight’, the list is endless. “We never say, ‘the garment isn’t right.’ And that’s nearly always the case. I help women understand which shapes, cuts, lines and colours really flatter their figure, so they feel great in everything they own.” Alana is currently working with printmaker Anna Casey to create wearable works of art combining Alana’s colour expertise with Anna’s artistic talent to create silk scarves with custom-design prints. “For me, the current fast fashion model isn’t sustainable, we end up with wardrobes crammed full of clothes we’re not in love with and landfills are full of textile waste. “I’m with Vivienne Westwood on this one: buy less, wear more. I’m a big believer in quality over quantity, and when women have confidence in their body shape and their own style, they can feel empowered to invest in items they truly love.” www.alanajanestyling.co.uk
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LE ON SA W O N
LUXE PEOPLE >> My absolute all-time style heroes are Cyndi Lauper and Vivienne Westwood (that’s clearly why I dye my hair red). I remember hearing this amazing story about Vivienne Westwood when I was training as a stylist, she saw some curtains in a hotel room and loved the material so much she took them down, made a dress and wore it to an awards ceremony! True pioneers in fashion and style don’t follow, they create, and everyone can cultivate this talent, we just need to be bold. She is phenomenal when it comes to the environment and climate change; does everyone remember that picture of George Clooney in those “Save the Arctic” t-shirts she designed? Swoon!
SUPPLIERS OF UNIQUE AND STYLISH FITTINGS
LUXE PLACES >> For a weekend > A European city; we’re so lucky to live a stone’s-throw away from so many magical places. A long holiday > I love America and I’m lucky enough to have friends in San Francisco, Portland and Minneapolis (next on my list). A treat > I went to this incredible Japanese Spa in San Francisco, I’m dying to go back. For now, I’ll just have to try out every spa in the country until I find one to match it. LUXE RELAX >> Best food > Thai and Mexican all the way, it’s all about spice. Best wine > I love Rioja, but I can’t resist a glass of prosecco. Favourite restaurant > I love artisan at the Biscuit Factory, they do incredible cocktails too. Perfect weekend > Sitting in the sun at the Boiler Shop Steamer with an espresso martini in hand, surrounded by friends. Bliss. Downtime means > Pyjamas and prosecco! Best telly > I’ve been addicted to Masterchef, I love a bit of Gogglebox and The Supervet too. Best book > I LOVE One Day by David Nicholls. Best sounds > Depends on my mood, I love a bit of experimental jazz, 80s pop, and pretty much everything on 6 Music’s playlist. LUXE SHOP >> Best shopping centre > This is impossible to answer! I bought some incredible vintage pieces in Sheffield, I love exploring The Shambles in York and the vintage shops in Leeds, but Newcastle has some incredible finds. Favourite shop > A lot of my favourite shops are online; I love Reformation, People Tree, Who Made Your Pants, Eileen Fisher, Michi NY (for yoga wear) and, of course, Vivienne Westwood. Nudie Jeans are great for guys, I wish they would make jeans for women! Luxe retail treat > Swedish Hasbeens, (Sarah Jessica Parker is a big fan), I’ve fallen in love with a pair of their boots, I wear them all the time! Super stylish, super ethical (they use vegetable tanned leathers and natural materials) and they’re designed to last. Best buy > Some of my best buys were the most expensive, but I work things out over pound-per-wear, some of the most expensive items I ever owned were cheap (the tags never came off!), I got some incredible Dr Marten patent leather Darcie boots from eBay, I wear them all the time, I feel incredible in them!
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LUXE PARTY >> A memorable night out > Cocktails, good friends, dancing, laughter and general shenanigans. Perfect party > Intimate dinner party with amazing company and plenty of G&T. Best dress > My current favourite is a full-length semi-sheer black dress. I bought it for myself for Valentine’s Day and I’m still in love! Dinner date > I love dinner dates! My perfect dinner date is a candlelit dinner at home with my boyfriend (he cooks the best food and he always looks like he just walked out of a Calvin Klein Jeans campaign). Your LUXE THING IN LIFE >> My dog, Meg (she’s a rescue from the Dog’s Trust, she’s my hero), my friends, Vogue, my partner, the women I meet and the clothes I get to work with, yoga, food, and laughing and travelling at every available opportunity!
THE BISCUIT FACTORY STODDART STREET NEWCASTLE NE2 1AN
0191 261 1103 Mon-Fri: 10am-5pm art@thebiscuitfactory.com Sat: 10am-6pm @biscuit_factory Sun: 11am-5pm
WWW.THEBISCUITFACTORY.COM
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LUXE LOVES Going potty Have a pastel party. These sweet ceramic vintage mixing bowls clustered together sing of summer days ahead. Fill them with strawberries, jellies, cherries and chocs. ÂŁ32 each From RE, Corbridge www.refound-objects.com
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First for girls. Junior and Senior School
AN OUTSTANDING CURRICULUM. A NURTURING ENVIRONMENT. A RICH HERITAGE IN EDUCATION.
Newcastle High School for Girls
Nursery through to Sixth Form
T: 0191 201 6511 E: j.howe@ncl.gdst.net newcastlehigh.gdst.net
Open Week
Monday 1st June – Friday 5th June. Please contact us to make an appointment.
Petrol heads, classic car enthusiasts and those who merely love anything shiny will be in their element when the world’s finest street (Grey Street in Newcastle, if you were in any doubt) plays host to some of the world’s finest cars in the first ever, NE1 Newcastle Motor Show on Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th July. Whilst many car shows are staged around the country, it is unique to have an event outdoors in such a prominent site in the heart of a European regional capital city.
majestic backdrop of Richard Grainger’s designed streets and buildings with cars displayed from Grey’s Monument down Grey Street.
The NE1 Newcastle Motor Show will be free to attend and will be staged with the most
Grey Street will be closed to traffic during the two-day event to allow the public to marvel
at the spectacle of an open-air car show with in excess of 100 rare, unique and exclusive vehicles on display. The area from Grey’s Monument to the bottom of Grey Street will be separated into two distinct zones. Grey’s Monument will host the NE1 Newcastle Motor Show sponsors area displaying vehicles from the brands on show and also some ‘show-stopper’ vehicles which have yet to be announced. In addition to the sponsor’s area, a collection of rare and unique vehicles will be on display. The monument area will also be home to other activities for visitors to enjoy including two driving simulators, games to get people in the motoring mood
STEPHEN PATTERSON, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS AT NE1 LTD
“THIS WILL BE THE FIRST TIME THAT THIS NUMBER AND CALIBRE OF CARS HAVE GATHERED IN THE CITY CENTRE AT ANY ONE TIME. ULTIMATELY, THE FOCUS OF THE EVENT IS TO DELIVER A UNIQUE SPECTACLE AND EXPERIENCE THAT THE UK HAS NOT BEEN SEEN BEFORE.”
some of the finest cars in the region. From Ferraris, Lamboughinis and Bentleys to classic MGs and AC Cobras, expect to see Grey Street filled with some of the finest cars ever made. Stephen Patterson, Director of Communications at NE1 Ltd who are delivering the event commented: “This area of Newcastle is home to some fantastic businesses and worldclass architecture. We have been in discussions for some time about FOR DETAILS OF THE staging an event that capitalised EVENT AND LATEST on this iconic part of the city. INFORMATION ON Thanks to the event’s sponsors and the region’s motoring enthusiasts, THE EXHIBITORS VISIT we are now able to deliver this getintonewcastle.co.uk fantastic event..
as well a host of activities for families with kids including retail units and entertainment.
“This will be the first time that this number and calibre of cars have gathered in the city centre at any one time. Ultimately, the focus of the event is to deliver a unique spectacle and experience that the UK has not been seen before.
The second zone, running down Grey Street from the Theatre Royal to Mosely Street is where private owners will display
“We’re delighted that the event is happening and we believe that, it has the potential to grow in to an event of national and international significance”
Mark King, Commercial Marketing Manager, Benfield Motor Group explained why they are one of the mainline sponsors of the new NE1 Newcastle Motor Show, he said: “As the North East’s largest motor group we needed to be involved in what will be the most unique Motor Show not just in Newcastle but the whole of the UK. “The event will provide a wonderful opportunity for car enthusiasts and the general public to see a range of rare and exclusive vehicles and not just from behind a glass window of a car showroom, these vehicles will be lining the most famous street in the city, Grey Street and people will be able to get up close to the action and enjoy the festival spirit that will surround the event. “We expect thousands of people to come along and join in the fun and Benfield are very much looking forward to giving the public exclusive access to some of the prestige cars from within our range of brands, including the Audi R8, Nissan GTR and the all-electric ground-breaking Nissan LEAF built here in the North East.”
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Dream team We’re about to celebrate Father’s Day and one very proud dad is Look North presenter Jeff Brown whose daughter Alice has been taking centre stage in London’s West End. Kathryn Armstrong caught up with them at the stage door
On a sunny day in the big city Alice Stokoe is sitting outside a café near Covent Garden sipping a peach iced tea and looking all of 16. It’s distractingly hot and the streets hum with huge generators providing the power for temporary air-conditioning units to deal with a ridiculous on-going power cut. Restaurants tout their ‘pre-theatre menus’ and from our café chairs we’re a few steps away from the rear of the Novello Theatre. And there we see Alice’s face shining in the centre of a 20ft billboard giving the call to come see Mamma Mia, one of the West End’s most popular musicals. The day job, or should it be evening job, sees Alice take centre stage as the pivotal main character Sophie Sheridan. If you’ve seen it or watched the film, you’ll know she is the young woman who sets out to find the identity of her real father. A quest which sets the musical in motion. “I Have A Dream” is the Abba song that starts the musical. When the curtain rises it is Alice in the spotlight, nowhere to hide in front of many hundreds of theatregoers. Lump in the throat moment for many in the audience, so how must it feel when that’s your little girl? Read on for Jeff’s version of that. That spotlight is a big deal. Alice had the dream and now it has come true. It doesn’t mean she gets a second glance, even in touching distance of the mighty billboard and yards from the stage door. Cast members dash by and give a wave. It’s a Wednesday afternoon and no matinee. Alice is wearing a white cotton top and as tanned as her role demands of someone living on a fictional Greek island. “Often I come out of the stage door with a woolly hat on and my
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jeans and slip out unnoticed,” no-one recognises me, she laughs. Though having said that, she’s always happy to greet her stage door fans, sign autographs and pose for a selfie. Alice will soon be 24. This is her big limelight show and she’s loved every minute. But, as any actor will admit, it’s all about the next audition and when she finishes with Mamma Mia in June she will just be the next name at the audition call. There’s no doubt however, that with a show like this under her belt, the future looks bright. She’ll be ready for a rest. It’s hard work and regimented. Her days usually end in the early hours and see her stir at 10 in the morning, then the day’s gradual gearing up for an intense and energetic performance, eight times a week. When the performance is on Alice is rarely off stage. Alice, (the Stokoe is her great grandmother’s maiden name. There was already an Alice Brown on Equity’s books), is also the daughter of Susan Wear, who is well-known as Director of Corporate Affairs at Port of Tyne. Alice went to school at Newcastle Central High and won a scholarship to the famous Italia Conti drama school in London when she was 18. Then it was bright lights, big city, loads of auditions and coffee shop jobs whilst waiting for the big yes. It came with Sophie, a role that has given Alice a high profile in the notoriously tough theatre industry. And though off-stage she even admits to being ‘a bit shy’, it is all about inner confidence. “The most important thing I think you need is self-belief. It’s such a classic female thing to think ‘I’m not good enough to do this’ or ‘I’m not worthy of this’ - especially in an industry where there’s more >>
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RELATIVE VALUES
View from the stalls >> Jeff Brown relives the ‘curtain up’ moment
female performers and less female roles but if you don’t think you’re good enough how can you expect anyone else to?”, she said in an interview on International Women’s Day. There has to be the strength to carry on, audition after audition, “Hard work, luck and knowing that a knock back in an audition is not about you. “You have to not take it personally. Give yourself a day to feel rubbish then move on. I’m way too sensitive and probably haven’t built up the thick skin yet! “It is about balance. You have to have self-belief to do this, otherwise no-one is going to believe in you. “When I got the part of Sophie they were looking for someone new. I think I look about 14 or 15 so I thought they’d think I was too young, Sophie is meant to be about 20. “It was mindblowingly surreal to get the part. But it’s a tough regime because it has to be perfect every time. “You can’t go for a drink or have a meal after a certain time in the day when you’ve got a show. “This part is a bit different to other musicals; the acting is really important, it is more layered with short scenes that have a lot of information to get across. You have to be an actor rather than acting through song as some musicals are.” It’s an enormously well-loved show but Alice says it is different every night. “You get the hen parties, you get the 50th birthday crowds all dressed up, you get the young girls who scream when the boys come on. “It is so energetic and uplifting, there’s nothing like it. If you’ve had a bad day or a show, you get out there and sing and dance and everyone knows the songs, it’s so much fun. “Then you skulk off at the back door and get on the bus and sometimes you’re on the way home with people who have been to see the show and you hear them talking about it, that’s surreal.” The show has its fair share of celebrities in the audience, most recently Paula
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Radcliffe and daughter Isla. And it gave Alice a mega-star moment of her own. West End Live was performed in Trafalgar Square, giving visitors a taste of London’s show. Alice performed in front of a 10,000-strong crowd. “I sang I Have A Dream. It was so terrifying, I felt like a popstar, people were clamouring for my autograph!” Alice is in Mamma Mia at The Novello Theatre until mid-June. You can see a video of her in action at www.mammamia.com With thanks to Grand Central Trains www.grandcentralrail.com
It was mindblowingly surreal to get the part. But it’s a tough regime because it has to be perfect every time
So there I was, in the darkened stalls of the Novello Theatre, holding my wife’s hand as the overture played. Susan leaned across and whispered, matter-of-factly: “She’s just behind the curtain, you know?” And when that curtain rose, there she was indeed. Alice, making her West End debut in the central role of daughter Sophie in “Mamma Mia”, the mother of ALL musicals (especially if you were a teenager in the ‘70s). Not only was Alice on stage, she was the ONLY one on stage. And as she sang the opening solo - “I Have a Dream” - her dad could just about make her out through the tears… Was it always her dream? Not for a short time in her mid-teens, when she decided she’d had enough of the weekly sessions at St Mary’s church hall in Heworth at the Reavley Theatre School, where we’d religiously taken her since she was four. But after a few months away from the stage, she hit us with a bombshell, early in 2007. Auditions were being held for the National Youth Musical Theatre, who were putting on a production of “Little Me” at the Bloomsbury Theatre in Euston. The Newcastle call had already been and gone, but there was one in Liverpool the following Sunday. Could she go? Bemused – because we presumed she’d lost the bug – we nevertheless did what good parents do: the three of us traipsing over the M62 one miserable January morning, for what I imagined would be a wasted afternoon. Instead, it proved to be the light bulb moment. Not only did Alice catch the creative team’s eye – she also found the focus for which she’d been searching. I’d been lucky enough, at the age of about 14, to know precisely where I wanted to end up: in the press boxes of the nation’s football and cricket grounds, as a sports reporter. Maybe lots of youngsters harboured a similar ambition, but with mum and dad driving me on (and driving me TO lots of events) it became a tangible target. Once Alice found the same spark and discovered her passion, we couldn’t have been happier. Even if that profession is one of the cruellest and most demanding around. She chose Dance and Drama as two of her A levels. A big decision, when the urge was for us to insist on “proper” qualifications. She argued her case convincingly, got top grades, and won a scholarship to the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts in 2009. Not long after turning 18, the car was packed for the trip to London, where Alice would begin a three-year course in musical theatre. Leaving her in her single-room digs in Barbican was traumatic. We’d barely turned the corner before we began mulling over a move to the capital ourselves. Instead, we fought the urge to camp on her doorstep, and left her to forge new friendships and fight her way to the front of the stage. Graduating in the summer of 2012, having taken top honours for acting, Alice’s starring role in a Conti production of “Into the Woods” brought her an invitation from a leading London agent. We sat back and waited for the offers to roll in. And waited. Some parts did materialise, notably in the pantomime at the Customs House in South Shields. Three winters working with the wonderful, and wonderfully unpredictable, comedy duo of Ray Spencer and Bob Stott taught her a lot about stagecraft. A couple of NatWest TV ads helped pay the rent, while a stint with the Northern Stage production “Moving Family” gave her a taste of the Edinburgh Festival. All the while, the musical theatre auditions were piling up – but so were the rejections. Reluctantly, I asked her not to tell me about up-coming auditions. The waiting was just too painful. It was a promise she broke as she approached the final hurdle in the “Mamma Mia” stakes. The conversation had been miserable, so she slipped in the fact she was in the frame. It cheered me up for all of 10 seconds, until the realisation struck that I’d now be watching the mobile and waiting for her name to appear again. When it did, it caught me off guard. The happy gasps and sobs from her end of the phone were just what I’d been waiting to hear. It culminated, one wonderful day last June, in almost 50 friends and family descending on the Novello Theatre in Aldwych for a night we will, truly, never forget. A show so good, we’ve been to see it another eight times (and counting). “You must be proud of her?” people ask. And we are. Not so much because she’s sung and danced her heart out six days a week for the past 12 months, or because her face is on all the posters. It’s as much because, for more than five years, she’s lived away from the comforts of home, resisted much of the London lifestyle, and remained dedicated to the profession. No matter where she goes from here, it’s already been one heck of a journey.
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Creative Design At Tecaz we believe that a bathroom or kitchen should reflect your personality, showing your individual style. Nobody gives you more choice, whether you’re home needs the warmth and character of traditional styling or the clean lines of contemporary design. With hundreds of options in our extensive showrooms and Sales Designers offering features that will make your home have that WOW factor, Tecaz have the opportunity to suit you perfectly. Always recognising that a blend of practicality with artistic flair is what makes a great design, what’s more this service is entirely FREE. and wh But it doesn’t end there, with prices that will balance exclusivity with affordability, and many well known quality brands up to 60% off their recommended retail price. Plus FREE Silestone or luxury granite worktops on selected rigid built kitchens.
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Tecaz www.tecaz.com
Opening hours: Monday to Friday: 9am - 6pm Saturday: 9am - 5pm Sunday: 10am - 4pm
walk this way
Sculpture trail A private sculpture garden in the Tyne Valley opens up to reveal its secrets to visitors
How does her garden grow? With stunning sculpture and inspiring artworks is Joanna Riddell’s answer. Art enthusiast Joanna’s home is the Cheeseburn Grange house and estate in the Tyne Valley which has become a leading destination for sculpture in the North East. She and husband Simon inherited the estate from his uncle Philip Riddell 25 years ago and while Simon predominantly farms the agricultural land, Joanna has built up a contemporary sculpture collection unrivalled in the region. Cheeseburn is opened for public weekends several times a year with the next open days at the end of May. In 2014 Joanna began developing the vision of Cheeseburn but in many ways
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it was in the making for much of her life. Always passionate about contemporary art and sculpture, Joanna sits on the Advisory Board of the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, Venice and in 2014, partnered with curator Matthew Jarratt to open up Cheeseburn to the public for the very first time. Council member for the Royal Society of British Sculptors, former Senior Manager for Arts Council England and lead for public art commissioning, Matthew advises and manages a range of contemporary art initiatives across the North East, Scotland, London and China. Together their vision is to offer artists the opportunity to exhibit work in the galleries and 11-acre landscape, to make those exhibitions accessible to the art lovers of the region and to develop and enhance Cheeseburn’s reputation as the home of
The vision is to make artists’ work accessible to the art lovers of the region and enhance Cheeseburn’s reputation as the home of world-class sculpture in the North East
world-class sculpture in the North East. Cheeseburn’s aim is to engage the public whilst supporting artists and designers as well as establishing major partnerships with local universities. Many of the artworks at Cheeseburn are offered for sale and Cheeseburn provides expertise, advice and guidance to developers and architects seeking to commission artists within developments and regeneration projects. In addition to the sculpture gardens, Cheeseburn seeks to develop the Stables Gallery within the grounds; this space will house artworks by artists featured in the sculpture gardens as well as provide a multi-functional project space for international artists, striving to develop a creative space from which new work can be made and displayed.
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walk this way Artists whose work is displayed include Joseph Hillier, Andrew Burton, and Colin Rose. In the old hayloft visitors will see Stag Head by David Mach who is also known for the Brick Train sculpture at Darlington. He also exhibits Log Cabin following time spent in the surrounding landscape and woods at Cheeseburn. The maquette (or scale model) for Log Cabin is formed from driftwood but offers the potential for a full size building or pavilion constructed from fallen trees. Future plans for Cheeseburn Grange include sculpture workshops, lectures by artists and an educational programme with a full summer opening schedule pencilled in for next year. Cheeseburn will be open May Day Bank Holiday Weekend Saturday 23, Sunday 24 and Monday 25 May. Admission is free. www.cheeseburn.com
’I am breathless with admiration for Opera North’
HHHHH The Daily Telegraph on Siegfried
Dramatic performance for the concert hall Hall One, Sage Gateshead Friday 3 July 7.30pm
The
Flying
Dutchman RICHARD WAGNER
Registered Charity Number 511726
Principal Partner
Major Supporter
Financially supported by the
Opera North Future Fund
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Tickets: sagegateshead.com 0191 443 4661 27
Untitled-1 1
07/05/2015 11:42:52
LUXE LIFE
Joanna Riddell Joanna Riddell is the brains behind Cheeseburn Sculpture Gardens. After inheriting Cheeseburn Grange from her husband’s late uncle, the couple spent the best part of 20 years restoring the grounds
Luxe pEOPLE >> The small, but perfectly formed, Cheeseburn team, my amazing and supportive family, oh, and my physio, Karen Deadon from Newcastle Sports Clinic, who keeps me going and fixes me up after installing sculptures and landscaping the gardens! Luxe places >> For a weekend > My house on the Essex Coast. A long holiday > East Africa. A treat > A surprise! Luxe relax >> Best food > Fresh fish Best wine > Sauternes, wonderful French dessert wine Favourite restaurant > Barrasford Arms in the North Tyne Valley. Fantastic fish fresh from the North Sea! And The Wolseley in London is an incredible experience. Perfect weekend > Being by the sea Downtime means > Not having to make any decisions! Best telly > Last Tango in Halifax and I always make sure I watch Portrait Artist of the Year. Best book > Far From The Madding Crowd by Thomas Hardy… my fondness for the book means I’m apprehensive about the movie release! Best sounds > Horses galloping, morning bird song - and my collection of rock music. Luxe shop >> Best shopping city > London. Favourite shop > Patrick Mavros, hailing from Zimbabwe, Patrick with support from his family, creates beautiful pieces of jewellery inspired by their African surroundings. I’ll always make time to explore their store if I’m ever in London. Luxe retail treat > A quick ‘dash’ around Harvey Nicks Best buy > Some suede boots that I bought in Cheltenham many years ago, still going strong. Luxe party >> A memorable night out > 5 Hertford Street in Mayfair - we visited for our daughter’s 21st birthday. It was an incredible evening, the venue itself has wild and unique interiors, endlessly inventive cocktails and a real party atmosphere. We were the last to leave! But, you only turn 21 once. Perfect party > Our 25th Wedding Anniversary Dance at Cheeseburn. We had a huge party in a marquee in the grounds of Cheeseburn, we also splashed out and included a Kata (a tepee of sorts), there was a roaring fire in the centre and an awesome band, 29 Fingers, played throughout the evening. It was magical, a true celebration of our marriage. Best dress > Roberto Cavalli - bought especially for our 25th Wedding Anniversary Dance. Dinner date > My most memorable dinner date was with some close friend in the Chyulu Hills in Kenya, as we listened to a leopard drinking from the bird bath less than 20 feet from where we sat. Breathtaking. Your luxe thing in life >> Being a member of The Advisory Board for the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, Venice.
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LUXE LOVES Great beach eats Nothing says summer coastal living quite like alfresco dining with moules, skinny fries and a chilled glass of white wine. Do it in style with the perfect pot, ÂŁ35. www.coastalhome.co.uk
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dive in
eat
Martin Charlton
Big up the ugly fish A ‘flying fish’ regeneration is underway by the harbour in Amble. It means locally-landed fishies should be staying on dishies close to home
Northumberland’s langoustines are the best in the world – but chances are it’s when you’re on holiday abroad that you a tackle a plateful of them. We’re good at catching the langos but less good at keeping them here. Same goes for a wealth of other fish caught off our coasts but then destined for the rest of Europe. It’s a familiar story. We’re getting better but the fact is that for an island we’re pretty bad at knowing what to do with fish that’s not the ‘big five’: salmon, cod, haddock, tuna and prawns. It’s something they’re dedicated to putting right at Amble. The Northumberland harbour town is about to open a Seafood Centre as part of its regeneration project, Harbour Village. Expect to see showy ‘flying fish’ auctions – just like the ones at Seattle’s famous Pike Place Market. Join the ‘Ugly Fish Club’ or
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sign up for a regular delivery of a fish box to go alongside your organic veg box. The idea is to maximise the fishing heritage on the harbourside, to make sure more fish stays close to home, making the town a seafood hub for foodies, locals and visitors. The Seafood Centre, due to open in May, is part of the Amble Harbour Village, a bright and modern waterside development of wooden ‘pods’ housing creative new businesses. It’s looking good, and very appetising. The town already know for Spurrelli’s ice-cream parlour will soon have a seafront creperie and a pod selling ‘secret recipe’ pies made by the town’s butcher. Helen Spark enjoys the grand title of ‘Seafood Broker’ for the new centre and explains; “Some of the plumpest, tastiest langoustines in the world are caught off the Northumberland coast. “This catch is vital to the local fishing
fleet and yet the wider population of Northumberland are unaware of their quality and availability. This is the same for much of the fish caught too. “Our inshore fishermen catch a huge variety of quality, fresh, local fish and the Seafood Centre will act as a hub to intercept some of the quality local seafood caught off our coast and make it more available to locals and visitors.” Helen hopes that Amble will become a ‘must-visit’ centre for fish-lovers. “We hope that things like the ‘flying fish’ auction will add a touch of theatrics as an attraction in its own right and make Amble
synonymous with great produce in the same way people sample local delicacies on a visit to Europe,” she adds. In terms of seafood, this is certainly the right place. On the harbourside we meet up with chef Martin Charlton who owns The Old Boat House in Amble as well as Blyth Boathouse and Pride cookery school. Martin’s on his mobile to a supplier sailing into the harbour, asking what today’s catch is. The distance between landing and kitchen will be about ten feet. Inside the Old Boat House, there’s been a busy lunchtime trade on this sunny Tuesday. While the fish and chip shops round about
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dive in are serving up their traditional fayre, there’s no shortage of serious foodies in the Boat House, happy to wade through a menu that features monkfish and chorizo stew, whole roasted seabass with fennel and orange, soft shell crab with Asian slaw, smoked haddock chowder or a decadent plate of lobster and chips. Pride of place in the kitchen is a wood-fired oven which is brilliant for roasting the freshest fish, creating the best clean, unfussy flavours. Martin can’t wait for the Seafood Centre to open up. He will be one of a number of local chefs who’ll be taking part in food demonstrations there over the summer. “We get fish from the boats every day and that’s what’s on the specials menu”, he says. “We get the ‘by-catch’, the fish left once the wholesalers have what they need to send to the rest of the UK and Europe. It might be a box with red gurnard, squid, cod, coley, mackerel. “The idea will be that this is the fish that we will be able to see in the Seafood Centre, lesser-known varieties that people can come and buy and learn how to cook. It means the fish will be landed here, bought here and eaten in Northumberland.” The Seafood Centre will hold dramatic ‘flying fish’ auctions for the public and the idea is to offer a greater variety of fish and encourage people to develop a taste for lesser-known species which are abundant in local water. It passes on a sustainability message that will be backed up by cookery courses, recipe cards and it is hoped, a scheme where people can sign up for a ‘fish box’ delivery similar to organic veg boxes where contents are determined by seasonality and the catch of the day.
In Amble’s main street chef Jonny Bird and his wife Julie run the cool little restaurant Seasalt. It’s been a real labour of love: they built tables themselves, found a wooden floor under layers of concrete and peeled away plaster to reveal a rustic stone wall. Specials are written on slates that used to be on Julie’s dad’s roof. The result is a bistro with bags of atmosphere and laid-back appeal that perfectly suits its seaside location. And the menu ticks the box too with sustainable fish a real feature of Jonny’s cooking. Spotted woof and coley make the menu today. Jonny serves them up with tempting accompaniments that would make the most fish-fearing diner go back for more. Each fleshy fish is served as a pan-fried white chunk looking perfect and tasting harbour-fresh. Jonny has worked across the region, including a spell at Slaley Hall. He also spent time working in France before settling in Amble and opening Seasalt. Jonny’s menu usually has fish on the specials board based on the day’s catch. He’s not a ‘fish restaurant’, his menu includes a burger menu as well as classics like calves liver with truffle potato or the inventive pot roast ham hock with butter bean and chorizo. “It’s nice to get fish on the menu that is landed here, people like that and it’s good getting involved with the new harbour development with cookery demos and that kind of thing.” www.ambleharbourvillage.co.uk www.boathousefoodgroup.co.uk Facebook: Seasalt Amble @seasaltamble
From top >> Seasalt’s Jonny Bird: above left, his coley and woof dishes and above, the interior of the restaurant.
At the Seafood Centre we will have lesser known varieties that people can buy and learn how to cook. It means the fish will be landed here, bought here and eaten in Northumberland
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Camp gastro
pitch&party
Ali Ray and Custard the campervan went on a tour of the country seeking out local produce and cool pitches. Here’s where Ali pitched-up North
bunkhouses plus a sauna, donkeys and alpacas! www.herdinghillfarm.couk
Eat Up >>
If you’re camping in the wild then wild food makes sense too. That’s how rustic rabbit stew and dumplings found its way to the recipe section of Ali Ray’s new book Pitch Up, eat local. She stopped off at the famers’ market in Hexham on her journey around the UK which was all about seeking out cool campsites and the best local food producers nearby. “I met David Ridley, owner of Ridley’s Fish&Game at his stall. “One side of his stall displayed fish, the
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other was dedicated to a wide range of game: rabbit, pheasant, grouse, quail and venison. “It’s an old-fashioned idea that eating game is for posh folk. A glance at the prices at the stall showed me that pheasant breast can be cheaper than chicken. “David beckoned over a fresh-faced chap in overalls. William Stonehouse lives in nearby Allendale and most weekends he and his friends catch rabbits to supply to local butchers, something they have done since they were lads. He told me he’d had rabbit stir-fry the previous night,” said Ali. Her book is filled with ideas for simple campfire-friendly recipes and is peppered with places to camp, buy local food and the location of the local farmers’ markets. She ventures from the Tyne Valley to Craster where she discovers Robson’s kippers. “On my visit, I watched a little blue boat surf into the harbour on a huge wave. A white van appeared on the quayside, three boxes of fish were offloaded and five minutes later the same van appeared in the smokehouse yard. “I find that simple, local exchange between fisherman. Seeing it continue gives a glimmer of hope for the future.”
Alnmouth Country Store for the perfect picnic pie, or an array of local cheeses, ice-creams and meat. Northumberland St, Alnmouth
North Acomb Farm Shop sells the best of produce from the fields you see all around. Seasonal game plus home-farmed poultry, pork and spring lamb. Bywell, Stocksfield www.northacomb.co.uk Pitch Up, eat local is published by AA Books £16.99
A little blue boat surfed into the harbour on a huge wave. Fish was unloaded and five minutes later the van appeared in the smokehouse yard ready to go
Pitch up >> Sea-breezy: Dunstan Hill Camping. A site about a mile from the coast, the perfect stroll for Craster kippers. www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk Wild beauty: Herding Hill Farm near Haltwhistle. Wigwams, lodges and
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pitch&party
Campers’ Kipper Kedgeree Serves 2
Kippers taste especially good cooked on a barbecue out in the open air, and the added bonus is that the distinct aroma is carried away on the breeze. Alternatively this campers’ kipper kedgeree makes an occasion out of them, and provides a more substantial meal. The cream is optional, it just depends how indulgent you are feeling. To enjoy kippers as they should be, you need to ‘jug’ them. Fill a large jug with boiling water, and simply put the kipper in head first, keeping the tail just above the surface of the water. Leave it for 6 minutes, no more, no less, and you’ll have the perfect kipper.
Ingredients 2 medium-sized kippers (from Craster) 50g butter (1/5 of a block), plus an extra knob to serve 1 onion, finely chopped 1 level tsp medium curry powder salt and pepper 150g long-grain white rice 2 eggs, hard-boiled, peeled and quartered juice of 1/2 lemon a handful of fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped 2 tbsp double cream (optional, but makes the dish much richer)
Method Jug the kipper, as above, in a jug of boiling water. Reserve 150ml of the water, and drain the fish well. Flake the fish flesh into bite-sized pieces and throw away the head, skin and bones. Put the flaked fish to one side. Melt the 50g butter in a saucepan and fry the onion for about 5-6 minutes until it has softened. Add the curry powder and a pinch of salt, and stir well. Now add the rice, and stir again so that the rice is fully coated with the butter and curry powder. Let it fry for about 1 minute, no more. Add the reserved kipper water, and bring the pan up to a simmer. Pop the lid on and let it cook gently for about 12 minutes, until all the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender to the bite. Remove from the heat. If you haven’t already, boil the eggs for 8 minutes, let them cool then peel them and quarter them lengthways. Now add the flaked fish, lemon juice and most of the chopped parsley to the rice. If using, you can add the double cream at this point. Fork everything together carefully, trying not to break up the fish. Taste and season with salt and pepper as required. Serve in a warmed dish, with the egg quarters dotted across the top, garnished with parsley and the extra knob of butter.
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Finger-lickin’
Off duty with Dave Coulson
This is a more-ish slow-cooked beef dish with warm thoughts of summer’s barbecue days Summer’s on its way and while you might have expectations of blazing sun and long days spent with family and friends, you know the English weather is always ready to rear its unpredictable head, so, in honour of the British summer, this is one BBQ dish that the rain and wind can’t get to...
BBQ beef >> Ingredients
1 kilo piece of brisket 2 tblsp ketchup 2 tblsp dark soy sauce 2 tblsp honey 2 tblsp Kecap Manis (Indonesian Soy sauce) 2 tablespoons of Bob Arora’s (Sachins) ground garam masala (or just garam masala if you can’t get your hand on wor Bob’s) 2 tblsp red wine vinegar 4 cloves garlic 4 red chillis 4 carrots Cooked mashed potato Cooked corn on the cob 100ml red wine sauce 500g duck fat
Method Immerse the beef in the duck fat and season with salt and garam masala. Cook low and slow at 120c for around five hours. Remove from oven. When cooled, take the beef out of the fat and put on a baking tray to rest. Mix together the chilli, honey, ketchup, Kecap Manis, soy sauce, garlic and red wine vinegar making a nice glaze. Cover the beef in the resulting glaze, keep a little of the glaze to marinate the carrot and corn. Put the beef and carrots in the oven and cook to your liking. If it needs glazing more, use the juice in the tray. Take the corn on the cob, trying to keep it stuck together, season with salt and the BBQ glaze and grill until warm. Serve and enjoy. Dave is head chef and business partner at Peace&Loaf, 217 Jesmond Road, Newcastle, NE2 1LA. Tel: 0191 2815222 www.peaceandloaf.co.uk
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MAY/JUN15
lick your lips
Real deal Indian
Newcastle-based chef Maunika Gowardhan is riding high with new best friends like Jamie Oliver and Yotam Ottolenghi loving her brand of ‘real Indian’ cooking. Her first book has just been published; try some recipes
Maunika Gowardhan has been wafting her special blend of culinary magic across the tables of the North East for some time now. Inspired by spice blends and traditional family recipes from childhood, her private chef business and cooking demonstrations have made her a wellknown face in the region. Thousands of people follow her food blog and soon she will enjoy a wider audience still with the publication of her first book, Indian Kitchen, launched at Café 21 in Newcastle. Among her fans are Jamie Oliver who she has worked with and Yottam Ottolenghi who says; “reading Maunika’s book feels as though you’re actually sitting in an Indian family kitchen, sharing stories and recipes. I’ve been inspired by her to make my own paneer and to play with pickled watermelon rind. Delightful!” Maunika hopes recipes from the book will transport food lovers to the authentic tastes of real Indian home cooking. “Tucking into that gorgeous curry with smells wafting through our home is the essence of every Indian household. “It’s a heady mix and one that we rarely delve into in contemporary British cooking. Indian Kitchen shares all this, the spice blends, the family recipes and the techniques of cooking which I know many people yearn to find out about.’ Maunika was born in Mumbai and has been living in the UK for 14 years. Though she trained in law, a life-long passion for Indian cuisine was inspired by family meals where the food always took centre-stage. She shares four generations of family kitchen secrets and her own expertise in her book to reveal how delicious and authentic Indian food can be made at home. Recipes cover snacks, street-food and
restaurant cooking as well as comforting family meals. The book is divided into four sections based on mood: ‘Hungry’ contains delicious but quick curries to help warm up the senses for a mid-week meal; ‘Lazy’ includes comfort food that you can make slowly; ‘Indulgent’ is for when you need to treat yourself to the
satisfaction of cooking and the pleasure of eating; and ‘Celebratory’ helps you cook up a feast to share with family and friends. Recipes taken from INDIAN KITCHEN by Maunika Gowardhan, published by Hodder & Stoughton £25. >> Photography Helen Cathcart
Keralan Kozhi Kuttan (Chicken Curry with Chillies and Coconut Milk) This Keralan-style chicken dish (‘kozhi’ means chicken) includes an amalgamation of spices that go to make a gorgeous curry paste I quite often use for lamb as well as chicken. Coconut oil is traditionally used in this dish and it does add richness, but regular vegetable oil works just as well. The use of coconut milk is quite minimal and serves merely to thicken the sauce and add a creamier flavour – a little goes a long way.
Ingredients 1/2 tsp ground turmeric 1 tbsp Greek yoghurt, lightly whisked 800g chicken, skinned and jointed 3 tbsp vegetable oil 2 green bird’s eye chillies, slit lengthways 1 onion (about 170g), thinly sliced 2 tomatoes (about 140g total weight), puréed to a smooth paste 100ml thick coconut milk salt to taste pinch of red chilli flakes or chopped fresh coriander to garnish FOR THE PASTE 1 tbsp vegetable oil 2.5cm piece of fresh root ginger, roughly chopped 8 garlic cloves 1 tbsp coriander seeds 4 dried Kashmiri chillies (or any dried mild red chillies) 2 heaped tsp fennel seeds 1/2 tsp black peppercorns 4cm cassia bark 5 green cardamom pods, seeds only
Method Put the turmeric, yoghurt and a pinch of salt in a bowl and mix well. Add the chicken pieces and leave to marinate for an hour or so. Meanwhile, make the paste. Place a frying pan over a low heat and add the oil, followed by the ginger and garlic. Fry for about 1 minute, then add the rest of the paste ingredients and fry for 5–6 minutes until lightly coloured. Leave to cool, then put the mixture in a blender, add 50–70ml water and blitz to a fine paste. Set aside. Place a heavy-based non-stick pan over a medium heat and add the 3 tablespoons of oil. When hot, add the bird’s eye chillies, letting them sizzle for about 10 seconds. Tip in the onion, add a pinch of salt and fry for 10–12 minutes or until browned. Add the puréed tomatoes and stir well, cooking for 3 minutes. Now add the spice paste and fry for 4–5 minutes stirring well, until the sauce thickens slightly and the oil leaves the sides of the pan. Now turn the heat up slightly and add the marinated chicken pieces, stirring well to coat them with the spice paste. Fry for 4 minutes until lightly coloured. Add 100ml water and season to taste. Simmer, covered, for 25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Add the coconut milk, stir well and simmer for a further 5–7 minutes or until the sauce is slightly thickened. Garnish with the chilli flakes or coriander and serve with Apple and Fennel Raita and parathas.
Bengali Prawn Cakes This recipe is adapted from a traditional Bengali paturi, where fishcakes or prawn cakes are wrapped and cooked in banana leaves, which impart a really lovely flavour. I made this with sweet prawns, which work brilliantly with the chilli and turmeric. For me it wouldn’t be complete without mustard, and English mustard works so well alongside the prawns.
Ingredients (makes 8–10 cakes) 250g raw tiger prawns, shelled and deveined 200g skinless boneless cod 1/2 tsp ground turmeric 1 tsp chilli flakes 1/2 tsp garam masala 10 fresh curry leaves, roughly chopped 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh coriander 2 tsp English mustard 1 tsp gram (chickpea) flour oil for shallow-frying squeeze of lemon juice or chaat masala salt to taste MAY/JUN15
Method Put half the prawns and half the cod into a food processor and, pulsing frequently, blitz to a coarse paste. Transfer to a bowl. Finely chop the rest of the prawns and cod into little chunks and add to the bowl. Add the turmeric, chilli and garam masala along with the curry leaves, coriander, mustard, gram flour and salt and stir well (the mixture will be a little sticky, which is how it should be to help it bind together). Divide into 8–10 equal portions and shape into round cakes. Place a frying pan over a medium heat and add the oil. When hot, add the prawn cakes a few at a time, frying for 2–3 minutes on each side until they are crisp and light brown. Serve with a squeeze of lemon juice or some chaat masala and Sticky Sweet Chilli Dipping Sauce.
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sweet treats
Eat Seasonal with andrew wilkinson of artisan
Make every day one for happy sundaes with a delicious summer treat
This really is a season where food and fun go hand in hand. June and July are thoroughly enjoyable months to spend outdoors with friends and family, sharing playful, bright and delicious dishes that match any summertime occasion. My days away from the kitchen at this time of year are full of foodie adventures. I love indulging in fish and chips at the North Shields Fish Quay after a day at the beach, rock-pooling at Seahouses, foraging for seashore vegetables. Other days are spent picking from my garden plot, preparing for family barbecues and light summer suppers with the missus and of course, baking the perfect pork pies for a picnic. I could go on, but really, when it comes down to it, the thing I truly love about this time of year is picking out those summer berries and soft fruits. Since March I’ve been nurturing my own strawberry plants. They’re in hanging baskets (to keep them away from the slugs) and surrounded by bee-friendly herbs and flowers and will end up in everything from jams to cheesecakes, or just enjoyed with a good glug of double cream! I’m really hoping this summer is going to be a good one so I’m sharing with you a British classic to be enjoyed perhaps on a Sunday afternoon with all the family. Or, if you’d rather, come try out the restaurant’s version in our brand new al fresco dining area.
Honeycomb, Strawberry and Elderflower Trifle Ingredients JELLY >> 2 punnets of fresh British strawberries (save half a punnet to decorate) 50g icing sugar 70ml Pedro Ximénez sherry (plus a little extra to soak the ladyfingers in) 2 gelatine leaves
CRÈME PATISSERIE >> 350ml full fat milk 150ml double cream Half vanilla pod 60g caster sugar 100g egg yolk (about 5 eggs) 35g cornflour 15g plain flour
ELDERFLOWER CRÈME CHANTILLY >> 250ml double cream 30g icing sugar Half vanilla pod Elderflower cordial to taste
HUNDREDS AND THOUSANDS >> Cocoa nibs Popping candy Crushed candied pistachios Honeycomb (recipe below)
HONEYCOMB >> 225g caster sugar 25g honey 30ml water 12g bicarbonate of soda
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OTHER >> Ladyfingers
Method The day before…
JELLY >> Put one and a half punnets of strawberries (remember, you’re leaving half a punnet to decorate), icing sugar and sherry into a large bowl. Cover with cling film. Get yourself a pan and fill it with a few inches of water and place over a low heat. When the water is barely simmering put the bowl of strawberries on top of the pan but making sure that the base of the bowl doesn’t touch the water! Leave for an hour or until you have a reasonable amount of liquid. Keep topping up the water as necessary. Once ready, drain the strawberry liquid through a fine sieve. Leave for half an hour and then lightly squeeze all the excess juice out. You want to be left with 300ml of juice. Let the gelatine leaves bloom in cold water for five minutes. Next, measure out 300ml of your strawberry liquid and put it into a pan. Bring close, but not to the boiling point. Squeeze out any water from the gelatine and whisk into the hot strawberry mixture. Once incorporated pass through a fine sieve and leave to cool slightly. Get your trifle glass, pour in your jelly and allow to set in the fridge overnight. The next day…
CRÈME PÂTISSIÈRE >> In a pan bring the milk, cream, vanilla and 40g of caster sugar to the boil. Meanwhile, in another bowl whisk the egg yolks and remaining 20g of sugar to a light ribbon. Add in the
flours and incorporate fully. Pour the milky creamy mixture over the egg yolks and then return everything to the pan. Continue to whisk vigorously until you have a thick custard. Pass this through fine sieve Tip: Sprinkle a thin layer of icing sugar over the top of the crème pâtissière to stop a crust forming and put into the fridge for later.
HONEYCOMB >> Place the honey, water and sugar into a pan and place over medium heat. Once the sugar has dissolved bring the mixture to 150 degrees using a sugar thermometer or watch the mixture until it becomes a light golden colour. Take care and sieve in the bicarbonate of soda. The mixture will be incredibly hot and expand quite quickly. Whisk, but don’t overwork; you just want to make sure everything is incorporated. Pour the mixture into a tray lined with greaseproof paper and allow to set.
ELDERFLOWER CRÈME CHANTILLY >> Place all ingredients in large mixing bowl and whip by hand or with an electronic whisk until soft peaks are formed. Fit a piping bag with a star nozzle and fill with the elderflower crème chantilly
To assemble Half all the remaining strawberries and arrange inside the trifle glass on top of your jelly. Dip the ladyfingers into the remaining sherry and then crumble on top the strawberries. Spoon the crème pâtissière on top. Pipe the crème chantilly on top of the crème patisserie. And finish by sprinkling over as many hundreds and thousands as you wish. Enjoy!
MAY/JUN15
EATING OUT
M eh di A m iri, Wyn ya rd H all Hot el
Worth a drive Yorebridge House has its share of famous faces to stay. If only this one had. Kathryn Armstrong paid a visit to the Dales Jeremy Clarkson might well still have his job if a Top Gear Plan A had worked. No strangers to Yorebridge House, the motoring boys had stayed before but the hotel was full when the team tried to book in for the now famously ill-fated Yorkshire jaunt earlier this year. You know, the one that went horribly wrong thanks to the ‘no hot food’ incident at a nearby hotel. The provision of hot food would never be an issue here, you just know it. The hotel, in Bainbridge, owned by Yarm ex-pats Dave Reilly and his interior designer wife, Charlotte, is getting as talked-about as Jeremy (OK, not quite); racking up the awards to an almost embarrassing extent these days. Accolades like the coveted 3 AA Rosettes at the AA Hospitality Awards, the only restaurant with rooms in Yorkshire to achieve this. They are a finalist in the Taste of England category of the prestigious VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2015 happening at Sage as we go to print. Most recently they’ve notched up an AA ‘Notable Wine List’ Certificate and are finalists in the AA Wine awards 2015-2016.
The Yorebridge three-course dinner menu is full of seasonality and namechecked foods that you want to see: Wensleydale lamb, white asparagus, morels, wild garlic and smoked eel MAY/JUN15
Heading up the kitchen is Dan Shotton who joined Yorebridge last year after working with Kenny Atkinson at Rockliffe Hall. Using local ingredients from surrounding countryside, his menus are out to impress. But the whole set-up does that. From the amuse bouche with a menuperusing glass of Nyetimber to fresh-baked multi-variety bread and dreamy farmhouse butter, the devil is in the detail. The Yorebridge three-course dinner menu is full of seasonality and name-checked foods that you want to see: Wensleydale lamb, white asparagus, morels, wild garlic and smoked eel. There’s a neatness about the menu with some five choices on starter and main course, dishes that you can see being cooked in the open kitchen. Each have interest from their main headliner and appealing side players. Scallops, three chunky, glistening chaps, were sweet and silky with a smoky kick from little croquettes of smoked eel, a velvety sweep of butternut squash puree and a savoury kick from a skilful slab of salty pig’s head terrine. Slow-cooked duck egg arrived as a wobbly wonder of a thing on top of a prettypicture collection of punchy dandelion leaves and white asparagus. Very high on the ooze-o-meter with a luscious yolk which dribbled decadently over the salad. My main course was a dish Dave says they wouldn’t dare remove from the menu, North Sea halibut (supplier, Hodgson’s) served with cauliflower, brown shrimp and leeks. Legend status achieved if dining reviews are anything to go by. More than lip service paid to the shrimp; there’s a mountain of the lovely sweet shrimpy nuggets atop a fine piece of fish cooked with a skilled hand for the right softness of flesh. Leeks give a nice kick as do thin slivers of cauliflower. Husband had the wild seabass; two fillets
nicely presented with their plate mates of heady morels, green asparagus and sweet, juicy confit tomatoes. Sea and garden brought to life. We drank wines by the glass which vary from the norm, which is interesting and fun. And we delve into a cheeseboard which mixes the local with global, though I’m not keen on the too-snappy homemade crackers. A dessert of creme brulee has a sharp and welcome kick of rhubarb and a spicy friend in the accompanying gingerbread ice-cream. The sum of the parts in every dish is very good. There are delicate tastes but a gutsy look to plates of food that are proud of their Yorkshire roots. At breakfast the same is true. Salmon and eggs is lovely and it’s charming to see that the ‘full Yorkshire’ is pretty much lock, stock and barrel from the village butcher and the farm a mile away. Jeremy & Co, you missed a treat on every level. Dinner, three courses, £55 Dinner B&B from £310 www.yorebridgehouse.co.uk
Food Life Mehdi Amiri is the new head chef at the Wynyard Hall Hotel and its showcase Wellington Restaurant
Childhood food memory >> Spending some of my youth in Persia I remember eating a national dish called “Ghormeh Sabzi” which is a traditional herb stew cooked with kidney beans. Favourite family dish >> Unfortunately I have to be clichéd and go with a traditional Sunday roast with all the trimmings. A meal that inspired you >> Chez Domonique Helsinki Finland, two Michelin star, held for ten years, since closed. I was inspired by the way traditional Finnish food was interpreted in a contemporary style. An inspiring drink >> Iced tomato tea with lemon balm (on our a la carte menu). Restaurant that you return to time and again >> Bangkok House Oxford, consistently good food. Inspirational chef >> Hans Valimaki. Last food you ate >> Restaurant Sat Bains in Nottingham. Favourite food and drink city >> Seoul, South Korea. Favourite ingredient >> At the moment it’s black garlic. A dish you’d pass on to your children >> No specific dish, I’d just focus on teaching them how to cook.
www.wynyardhall.co.uk
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food mission
Chef’s table
with James Close, head chef at the region’s only Michelin star restaurant, The Raby Hunt, Summerhouse
Been eating in >> London. Jumped on the train for a jolly in the city with chef chum Michael O Hare aka Man Behind the Curtain in Leeds. Bonkers he is, hopping on the train with a supermarket carrier bag containing five cans of G&T for the journey. He’s also sporting a bright pink jacket and snakeskin walking stick.
Destination is Bubbledogs in Charlotte Street, Soho. A hot dog and champagne ‘in’ place. We don’t have the dogs, instead we head to the Kitchen Table at the rear which is where four chefs cook a ten-course meal in front of you. Chef at work is James Knapett who worked at Noma and plenty of other places. Standout dishes were a slow-cooked egg with truffle over it and some crispy chicken skin with bacon jam and mascarpone. We ate a ten-course meal washed down with a couple of bottles and riesling only to decide that we couldn’t go without a hot dog. Foolhardy for sure. Maybe they work when you’re starving but hot dog and blue cheese dog after the above…plain foolish. Sweden. The day after Bubbledogs with my brother. We stayed at the impressive Grand Hotel which has amazing rooms and a one and a two-star Michelin restaurant in the building. The restaurants are the best thing. Chef is Mathias Dahlgren and we were impressed by Matbaren, a modern, informal bistro
where you can enjoy one or more medium-sized dishes and accompanying wines by the glass, either served at a table or up at a large bar counter. Based on the very best of fresh seasonal produce, the menu changes on a daily basis. A standout plate was a Korean soft bun with pork and chillies, lovely soft long-cooked pork shoulder, so good. Main reason for the Swedish trip was to go to Frantzen, one of the top 20 restaurants in the world. Lots of Japanese influences which is up my street at the moment. Standout dish hotpot of lobster with truffle consome and cabbage unbelievably good. It’s a tiny place, about 16 covers and chefs cook right in front of you. The best meal of the stay was a visit to two-star Oaxen Korg, pictured below. They got two stars within 16 months which says it all. Unique ingredients, wild herbs, ultimate tastes. Loads of skill, they cure their own sausages and attention to detail is everything. Standout dish was local shrimp crisped up in a barbecue and venison with a venison blood sauce. We had 16 courses! Memorable. www.oaxen.com
So the trip was memorable in terms of seeing the best of what is going on but not relaxing – one day I’ll get back to lazing on a beach but I don’t know when! We headed back from Sweden, landed and nipped in to Meat Liquor (one in Leeds now, hopefully in Newcastle next?). I love the chicken wings with blue cheese, the blue cheese they use doesn’t overpower, it’s punchy and delicious.
Auckland Castle pop-ups >> My partner Charlotte is catering manager at Auckland Castle and I’ve been helping out with head chef Luke Orwin, left, organising some summer pop-ups. The next one is May 23. Dinner in the Library in the heart of the Bishop’s Palace. Diners at the monthly pop-up restaurant will have the chance to sample a five-course tasting menu featuring mouthwatering dishes created with the finest seasonal ingredients. To book call 01388 743 750 or email enquiries@aucklandcastle.org
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local heroes >> I rave about Swallow Fish (see right), don’t forget the oysters, and I am also keen to head to the Lobster Shack at North Berwick this summer. I hear it’s a cool little spot, eat your lobster, or moules, listen to the crashing waves and even get takeaway champagne. www.lobstershack.co.uk
Oyster We always have an oyster dish on menu and the latest is a dish we create with the Lindisfarne oyster in mind which is slow-cooked at 62°C , it is poached but the raw flavour is intensified so it is twice as flavoursome. We serve it with a dill and horseradish oil and a pickled cucumber granite, some charred cucumber and compressed finish with tiny bit of dill and some burnt cucumber skin, the best oyster dish we’ve done Try it at home A great recipe made for enjoying outside in the sunshine. Raw oyster served with picked cucumber, it is a twist on the old school shallots and red wine dressing. Here’s how you do it Dice a cucumber into decent sized cubes, removing the watery seeded bit and keeping the skin on if you like. Make a pickling juice with 150ml white wine vinegar and 75g sugar. Heat them until sugar dissolves and add a pinch of salt. Get a kilner jar and half fill with the diced cucumber. Cool the liquid then add to the jar. You can leave it anything from two days to two weeks. To serve, drain the cucumber and cut it finely. Put it under the fresh oyster then sprinkle with dill. Drink it with a bottle of the brilliant Henners sparkling white wine…. perfect for warm summer evenings.
Bib gourmand witH harriett Close >> I am a girl who likes a bucket and spade day with an ice-cream too. Mummy and Daddy take me to the Northumberland coast often where there is SO much sand for me to roll in. We went to Seahouses and Daddy likes a shop called Swallow Fish; It’s a bit pongy, what is a kipper? I thought it was a puppy in my favourite book but people eat them? Daddy says this is the best place to buy cod and lobster, I love spiky lobsters but I am a bit scared of them with their snippy claws. Anyway, Daddy cooked me some yummy cod and little trees called asparagus. Nice.
Wine We’re excited by a new addition to our wine list, the lovely St Emilion Cantenac Grand Cru. Clos Cantenac is a small but seductive 6 hectares property with carefully planted vines on an exceptional “terroir” of deep gravel, sand and clay making a deep, smoky wine. Try it for yourself www.aduv.co.uk
Room time >> Had a great night in a great room at Rockliffe Hall recently. Room service feast and the last night of the Masters golf on the telly. Good as it gets if you can’t be there in person – and you wake up looking out of the window and itching to tee-off.
In the diary >> A pop-up with chef Mauro Colagreco of Mirazur, in Menton, France happening at Hedone in London. He’s a genius. Argentineborn Colagreco become the first ever non-French chef to be named “revelation of the year” in the influential Gault Millau guide. He will be doing a Med-themed pop-up, can’t wait.
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HERE COMES THE SUN
Veg patch with Karen Phillips
Gardening in summer is pure pleasure: what shall we pick for supper tonight? Shall I have a cold glass of wine whilst doing it? And all with the ability to top up Vitamin D levels in the summer sunshine at the same time! Rich Pickings >> Spinach: Being a ‘long day length’ plant last year’s autumn sown crop is just starting to bolt as we reach June 21 so all leaves must be harvested before the whole plant is dug up and new plants sown. I have to admit to have fallen onto the juicing bandwagon (is it an age you reach?) so a handful of spinach is daily added to the breakfast smoothie; wilted onto pasta with an unctuous sauce; or for pure decadence creamed with garlic, double cream and nutmeg. Courgettes: Never in 20 years of growing vegetables have we not drowned each summer under a glut of courgette - until the invention of ‘the spiraliser’! Copious courgettes are now turned into spaghetti, mixed with a cashew nut pesto sauce and served with grilled chicken. The garden cannot keep up with the family’s demand! Broad Beans: yes, the advent of frozen broad beans in the supermarket has kind of negated the need to grow your own but they are one of the first veg crops to appear in the spring garden (from an autumn planting) and the flowers alone are reason
Copious courgettes are now turned into spaghetti, mixed with a cashew nut pesto sauce and served with grilled chicken. The garden cannot keep up with the family’s demand!
enough. Ottolenghi has a delicious recipe for mixed beans with many spices and lovage in his book ‘Plenty’. Tomatillos: Once you have grown this crop you’ll yearn for the first crop of the summer and that haunting sour taste. I love them fried with scrambled eggs; boiled and made into salsa verde; or in the wonderful ‘Quinoa, tomatillo, preserved lemon and mint salad’ from my favourite new cookbook: The Modern Pantry.
Sowing the colours of the rainbow >> There is still plenty of time to get some quick crops sown and, silly as it sounds, sowing the colours of the rainbow, and then eating the produce, can have serious health benefits since the nutrients in each vegetable can often be categorized by its colour. Red is usually a sign of vitamin A (beta carotene) and vitamin C. Typically, red produce are also high in manganese and fibre. Sow beetroot ‘Sanguinea’ for the deepest blood red globes; Ruby chard for its coloured stems which will last all through winter; or rows of radishes for
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one of the speediest of crops. Orange is just a shade away from red so vegetables again contain vitamins C & A, but also B6, potassium, and fibre. For quick crops sow stumpy orange carrots such as ’Parmex’ or ‘Gringo’ in pots or get hold of some onion squash seedlings such as ‘Uchiki Kuri’ for trailing over the veg plot. Yellow veg are high in potassium, manganese, vitamin A and magnesium. Suitable candidates are the dwarf yellow French bean ‘Sonesta’; golden beetroot; yellow courgettes or if you can stand the heat then sow ‘Lemon Drop Chillies’. Green leafy vegetables are packed full of nutrients; there is a reason why kale is hailed as the ‘Superveg’. Sow spinach now and not only will you have avoided the problems of bolting on the longest day but you will benefit from its rich lutein content which aids eyesight and folate which supports cell reproduction. Kale, calabrese, and asparagus also contain these compounds. Blue brings one of nature’s most powerful antioxidants, blueberries, to mind. It is quicker to purchase as a plant than grow from seed. Plant it in a large container in
acid compost and then water copiously. Indigo (or purple) indicates the presence of anthocyanins: powerful antioxidants that protect blood vessels and preserve healthy skin. Sow radicchio, red cabbage, red onions, purple podded peas, purple carrots or even plant the purple potato ‘Salad Blue’. If you have access to a greenhouse, sow some aubergine seeds since according to a study published in the journal “Food and Chemical Toxicology.”(May 2007): ‘In the laboratory animal study, pre-cancerous cell changes were reduced by up to 57% in animals supplemented with aubergine anthocyanins.’ Violet vegetables also have high levels of anthocyanins as above and my favourite has to be the Purple Autumn Cauliflower ‘Sicilia Violetto’ which was sown in modules in the greenhouse in April. Now the plants are about 15cm tall they can be transplanted to their final positions, leaving 45cm between plants.
Jobs outside >> Summer Pruning of Apple Trees We run winter pruning courses every February and the overriding reason that people come on the course is in order to ‘keep things small’. Winter pruning is all about promoting vigour, whether in fruit size/flowers/coloured stems/ large leaves or simply reinvigorating old shrubs. In order to restrict size a spot of summer pruning in August and September is required: removing excess leafy stems to reduce the amount available for photosynthesis thereby limiting the amount of food made by the plant to fuel new growth. Summer pruning is essential for maintaining
the shape and size of trained fruit trees i.e. cordons (single or multiple branches similar to a candelabra) or espaliers (tiered branches like one dimensional tree that has been flattened by a lorry!) In both cases the tree has a main framework of laterals and the growth coming off the laterals (sublaterals) needs to be restricted to 2-3 buds of new growth each year; this way more fruit is produced in a very small space – it is even possible to grow apple trees in deep windowboxes! Espaliered apples can be trained up house walls and cordons can be trained on wires or even used as a single horizontal stem as stepover apple trees to edge a path. Thanks to dwarfing rootstocks (M26 and M27) even the smallest garden can have apple trees, so if you fancy an apple pie baked from homegrown apples get planting and summer pruning!
Looking Ahead >> Next issue we’ll be discovering the best varieties of plums to grow for use in the kitchen, sowing Florence Fennel and pickling nasturtium seedpods. Karen runs Widehaugh House cookschool and gardens, Hexham. www.widehaughhouse.co.uk
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posh pack-up
Masterclass with Terry Laybourne
Craster Kippers are a food hero in their own right. Flavour-packed, they are wonderful on their own but this punchy pate is the perfect addition to your picnic best eaten with sand between your toes and crashing waves within earshot.
1 Pre-heat the oven to 180C. Dot the kippers with butter.
2 Cook skin side up until tender, basting with butter.
3
Craster Kipper Pate
Remove the bones and put the kippers into a bowl along with any cooking juices.
1.6kg Craster Kippers (heads removed) 450g Softened butter 70g Soft white breadcrumbs
Juice from 2 lemons Sea salt Cracked black pepper
Craster Kipper Pate, Soft Egg & Pickles
4 Flake the fish into large pieces.
5 Add the remaining butter.
6 Add the breadcrumbs.
Craster Kipper Pate with Hot Toast
7 Add the lemon juice.
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8 Gently bring the mixture together.
9 Season to taste.
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Take 2
The Maxwell family of Doddington Dairy, Northumberland are celebrating winning the BBC Food and Farming Awards for Best Food Producer. They’ve been farming in the beautiful Glendale Valley for over 50 years and in the 1990s Neil and Jackie started producing ice cream and hand-crafted cheese from the high quality milk that they produce. To celebrate this victory for the region why not try one of the seasonal recipes below, which use some of the delicious hand crafted cheese from the farm!
Doddington’s Darling Blue Cheese and Fig Salad, with Crispy Fried Shallots A deliciously light salad made with the beautiful Doddington Dairy’s Darling Blue cheese. Preparation time: 15 minutes Serves: 4
Ingredients
Doddington’s Smoked Cuddy’s Cave Pan de Campagne This smoky and flavoursome bread is the perfect picnic treat. Prep time: 15 minutes Proving time: 1 hour Cooking time: 40 minutes
125g wholemeal flour 425g strong flour 65g rye flour 10g levain feeder 15g salt 8g yeast 425ml water 100g kibbled onion 200g Doddington’s Smoked Cuddy’s cave
For the Dressing
Method
25ml red wine vinegar 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1/2 tablespoon of honey 50ml extra virgin olive oil Salt and pepper, to taste
First mix the yeast in with the water until dissolved. Leaving 100g of the Smoked Cuddy’s cave to one side, mix all other ingredients into the dough, either by hand or with a dough hook. Place the dough onto a floured baking tray, cover with a cloth and leave somewhere warm to prove for 1 hour. Now shape the dough as required, sprinkle over the remaining 100g of Smoked Cuddy’s Cave and bake in the oven for 40 minutes at 200°C. To ensure your loaf is cooked, turn the bread upside down and tap the bottom if it is ready it should sound hollow.
Firstly make the dressing, which will keep for a few weeks in your fridge. Begin by warming the honey slightly to make it easier to mix, and then whisk it together with the vinegar and mustard in a small bowl. Pour in the olive oil, whisking continuously to combine, then season with salt and pepper and put to one side. Soak the shallots in the milk for a few minutes and drain them thoroughly. Next, toss the shallots in polenta flour, ensuring they are fully coated, and deep fry to colour for 2 minutes at 170°c. Alternatively you can shallow fry them, just keep turning them regularly. Set aside for later. Cut the figs in half, sprinkle on some sugar and gently warm them under a grill. Place the lettuce mix of choice in a large salad bowl, crumble over the Darling Blue cheese and top with the warm figs. Finally, pour over the dressing and finish with the crispy fried shallots.
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01325 377977
Ingredients
100g crumbled Doddington’s Darling Blue cheese 1 large shallot, sliced into thin rings Sugar, for sprinkling 120g (1 bag) mixed baby leaves 150g fresh figs, halved 50ml milk 25g polenta flour
Method
middletonlodge.co.uk
Recipes from Kelly Richardson, Executive Chef at Fenwick Newcastle Three to try >> Doddington Dairy Smoked Cuddy’s Cave £2.39 per 100g Doddington Dairy Admiral Collingwood £2.39 per 100g Doddington Dairy Darling Blue £2.39 per 100g Available in Fenwick Food Hall.
Photo courtesy of Gary Walsh
‘EDITIONS’ BY NUTRITION CEMMICK AND KIDD AND LIFESTYLE ART AND SCULPTURE WORKSHOP THURSDAY 11TH JUNE, EXHIBITION THURSDAY 4TH JUNE, 12NOON - 9PM
This is the début exhibition of ‘Editions’ new up and coming photographer Tracy Kidd alongside established artist and sculptor Sarah and David Cemmick. These three artists would love to share their creativity with you in celebration of the British Countryside. As we expect this exhibition will be very busy, please register your interest in advance by emailing tracy@tracykiddphotogaphy. com or contact Tracy for more details on 07966 213410 Entry is free of charge.
9:30AM - 2:30PM
After the success of our first Nutritional Workshop in February The Coach House at Middleton Lodge has secured another date with Kate Chaytor-Norris. Kate trained at the Optimum Nutrition in London, one of the leading educational establishments to focus upon all aspects of nutrition and health from both a holistic and scientific prospective. Kate is holding her next workshop on Thursday 11th June 2015 the cost is £75pp to include a four hour workshop, Iodine and alkaline tests and three course lunch with selected refreshments.
AN EVENING WITH HOOKER AND YOUNG THURSDAY 18TH JUNE, 6PM TIL LATE
Middleton Lodge estate is delighted to host an evening with Hooker & Young Darlington, one of the five award winning salons from the North East. The talented team will inspire and share a wealth of knowledge with you collectively and individually. The evening will include live tutorials and demonstrations. Everything you wish to know about colour and style, leaving you looking and feeling fabulous. Following the demonstration there will be a Catwalk show showcasing the latest on trend hair styles paired with this season’s clothes and make up. Tickets are £37.50pp including Prosecco on arrival and a 2 course Dinner.
ALL OUR EVENTS ARE AVAILABLE TO PURCHASE AS VOUCHERS MAKING THE PERFECT GIFT FOR SOMEONE SPECIAL TO BOOK or for details of future events please call reception to book on 01325 377977 or email info@middletonlodge.co.uk K n e e t o n L a n e , M i d d l e t o n Ty a s , R i c h m o n d , N o r t h Yo r k s h i r e , D L 1 0 6 N J
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bring me flowers
W elc ga o rd me en to pa th rty e 42
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Essentiel Antwerp Maxi Dress in Lilac Floral Print | £199 | Fenwick, LK Bennett Paola Sandal | £225 | Fenwick
r’s e m usy m u s lo o ir b boo t ce the am ow n a ith , b r sh y o s w eria we b t am frock wis ’s flo fl f al es, n o h or ros shio c ou sly fl ing o fa t a lou ing s t s ’ re bu s br bud e Th fa om nd blo a
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bring me flowers
Victoria Beckham Floral Wrap Midi Dress | £1850 | Cruise
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bring me flowers
Dolce & Gabbana Wisteria Full Skirt | £525 | Cruise, Dolce and Gabbana Orange Blossom Top | £275 | Cruise, Celine Edges Calf Zip Bag in Yellow | £1350 | Cruise
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Gucci De Chine Pant | £575 | Cruise, Gucci De Chine Shirt | £535 | Cruise, Anya Hindmarch Gracie Snake Bag in Electric Blue | £995 | Cruise
Max Mara Studio Hermes Dress | £299 | Fenwick, Mulberry Lily Bag | £750 | Fenwick
bring me flowers
Style in full bloom
Charles Clinkard, Eldon Square Newcastle and branches throughout the North East. www.charlesclinkard.co.uk CharlesClinkard_Luxe_HalfPageAlt.indd 2
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F I N E
F O O T W E A R 01/05/2015 10:02
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bring me flowers
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Far left, main picture: Forever Unique cut-out floral skater dress | £218.99 | Psyche
Above, Michael Kors bamboo print maxi | £183.99 | Psyche, Ted Baker suede sandals | £108.99 | Psyche
Above right, Ted Baker Ravina distinguishing rose midi dress | £158.99 | Psyche, Givenchy Pandora Pure Bag in Violet Orchid | £1319 | Cruise
CREDITS Hair and make-up: Victoria Forshaw www.pinspetalspowder.co.uk Photography: Kevin Gibson www.kgphotography.co.uk Model: Sarah Hargreaves www.tyneteesmodels.co.uk Styling: Fiona McLain
Stockists: Cruise, Newcastle www.cruisefashion.com Fenwick, Newcastle www.fenwick.co.uk Psyche, Newcastle www.psyche.co.uk
Location: The Botanist bar&restaurant, Newcastle www.thebotanistuk.com/newcastle
Womenswear Boutique Casual daywear from A Postcard from Brighton, Cream, Sandwich, and Two Danes. • Stunning exciting collections by Penny Black, Cristina Gavioli, Kapalua, Coo!, Betty Barclay, Mado et les autres, and YaYa. • Be inspired by the Cobblestone collection of handbags by Kris Ana, Pepe Mol and Maria Carla. • To compliment any outfit view our stunning display of contemporary jewellery by Dansk Smykkekunst and unique pieces by Squadra Blu.
Cobblestone
28 College Square, Stokesley, TS9 5DN 01642 715715 We pride ourselves on our service, offering style, fit and trend advice to all our ladies, we are open Monday – Saturday 9-5.30pm, come and see for yourself...
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Artist Eva Meenhorst has taken her brush from canvas to clothing to create art you can wear
fabric of life
A brush with fashion Remember Angelina Jolie’s wedding dress for her marriage to Brad Pitt? Her children’s scribbles, drawings and messages were literally part of the fabric of the day, sewn on to her billowing gown. And whilst most of us wouldn’t let the offspring loose with a favourite outfit and a fabric pen or paintbrush, the concept of personalised clothing is taking hold. Artist Eva Meenhorst, pictured here wearing her designs, is bringing her canvases to life by recreating her own paintings on a range of clothing that can be commissioned in the same way you would a work of art for your walls. Mother of four Eva, who is Dutch, is based near Yarm but her work sells throughout Europe. Her clothing designs have just been stocked by a boutique gallery in Zurich called Konig and sit alongside stylish pieces by Gucci, Dolce&Gabbana and Miu Miu. Her clothing designs feature the key elements in her paintings and fall into two distinct styles. Eva’s Rainmaker series of paintings features willowy black figures and these have been recreated on silk which has then been made into loose summer dresses with neck-tie detail. She works with a seamstress who makes each dress by hand as well as accessories such as silk scarves.
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The Rainmaker figures, which look like sharp silhouettes, can be used as a border around the hem of a drapey silk dress or as a striking print on the front. Or, using a thick linen fabric and a simple shift dress design, Eva paints elements of the Rainmaker shapes to create a bold but unique garment. The dresses can be made to order with any colour linen or silk, making them unique for any occasion. She has also just launched a new evening dress made out of a beautiful soft (no-iron) black jersey. Another of Eva’s series of paintings is called Connected Forever and tells the story of a family’s life. She is often commissioned to recreate a family story through the paintings which start with simplistic, personalised drawings or words with the connection of brothers and sisters symbolised by a ball of wool which unravels through the family but is always in the background. Her own daughter Hanna, five (she also has three sons),
asked Eva if she could dress up too and the idea of designing and making a mother-daughter collection was born. “People seem to like the idea of the Forever Connected dresses. In a very subtle way they reflect the character of the family demonstrated with a favourite symbol of a much-loved hobby or interest,” says Eva. “They can be personalised which makes them meaningful and fun to wear. But the same is true of all the dresses, or even a man’s shirt for a wedding day, we can personalise clothing with design and painting to create something bespoke.” Eva’s linen dresses are £225 and silk, £250. The children’s dresses are £50. See more of her work and details of commissions on www.evameenhorst.com >> Photography by Emma Heal-Betts.
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UK SALON GROUP OF THE YEAR
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Gosforth 0191 217 0217
Jesmond 0191 281 6714
Ponteland 01661 821 004
Wynyard 01740 644 690
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Top it all
TREND WATCH Catherine Newton’s fashion snapshot from work to weekend to wedding
The Occasion >> This is your opportunity to be bold so an all-over print is a must, look to Hedi Slimane’s SS15 Saint Laurent collection for inspiration. Slimane opened his show with an amazing asymmetric red cherry print dress: soft floaty fabric, exposed shoulders and a fruity print all declared the arrival of summer, while a deep black base colour and sheer black tights added a grungy edge. To bring your printed occasionwear look up to date choose something with a bold colour combination. I love MSGM’s hot pink and black printed dress. Stiff fabric adds a little attitude to the shape and the black and pink colour combination prevents the dress from looking too traditional. We’ve styled the dress with a vintage Chanel handbag from our Vintage Designer Collection - a touch of classic glamour that would finish off any occasionwear outfit. Weekend Style >> This season redefine your weekend look with Joseph; I adore their structured t-shirt in a traditional paisley print. The paisley design nods to the 70s while the sleek and minimal cut creates a contemporary finished look. Just pair with a dark denim for the ultimate
For trousers, the key style this season remains slim and slightly cropped at the ankle; a really elegant and easy-to-wear trend 52
Paisley perk >> Joseph top, £255, Victoria Beckham Denim, £250, Longchamp bag, £220, Ray-Ban sunglasses, £170
Cute crop >> Armani Collezioni top, £165, Armani Collezioni trousers, £275, Dune heels, £89 Pretty prints are no longer the reserve of children’s party dresses. From intricate 70s paisley designs to Russian-style embellishment; this season printed pieces are creeping into our occasionwear, weekend and even work-wear wardrobes. Here’s how to wear the trend this summer.
Floral chic >> MSGM Floral dress, £525, Vintage Chanel bag, £2995, LK Bennett heels, £225
in weekend chic (my go to denim label is J Brand, their fit is absolutely divine!) For something really special indulge in Victoria Beckham Denim. Everyone’s favourite Spice Girl turned fashion designer extraordinaire has expertly honed her collection over 11 years, making it one of the most desirable names in denim. For Work >> Printed trousers are my favourite way to get pattern into my work-wear wardrobe. The key style this season remains slim and slightly cropped at the ankle; this is a really elegant and easy-to-wear trend which will suit most shapes. It’s also a style that can be dressed up with a heel or worn more practically with a masculine flat. As you can imagine the trend for loafers, mannish moccasins and sporty trainers was very well received by journalists, models and buyers alike during the ever-hectic rush of London Fashion Week! For SS15 Armani Collezioni, Sportmax (MaxMara’s trendier spin-off line) and Paul Smith have all released collections that feature tailored printed trousers. Wear with a block colour top or shirt to pare down a really dramatic print, or, if you’re feeling brave and there’s a matching top, go all out and match them up! The Handbag >> For me a day to day bag that can fit everything in is the key to staying organised when my schedule gets really busy. My Céline Luggage bag has got me through 4 New York Fashion Weeks, several trips to Milan and weeks spent in Paris show rooms (via train, plane and everything in between). Handbags no longer need to come in black, beige or nude; exotic colours and even outlandish prints will take you into AW15 and beyond. For expert advice book an appointment with Fenwick in-house Fashion Stylist on 0191 2325100. Catherine Newton is Head of Womenswear at Fenwick Newcastle.
My top 3 tote bags to take a look at this season are Vivienne Westwood’s Derby Roses tote bag (£295), Marc by Marc Jacobs’ Yellow Floral tote bag (£245) and Coach’s Hawk Feather tote bag (£325). Any would make a stunning addition to a work-wear or weekend outfit!
MAY/JUN15
braidy bunch
I hardly dare say it, but I do believe we are going to have a great summer! I can almost taste the Pimm’s April and May have been a bit of whirlwind for the H&Y team with shows in London, Germany and Slovenia. Add to that, shoots for glossy national magazines, advertising campaigns for international brands and shooting the first of our British Hairdressing Awards collections! We are also the newly-appointed Global Ambassadors for Schwarzkopf Professional, a role that will see us head up international shoots, global education and many more amazing opportunities, all in all, very exciting times ahead. Braids have dominated the spring 2015 runways, arriving as sleek plaits in New York, taking on an ethereal vibe in London and most recently, gaining new ground in Milan with a much more unconventional look! Fishtail, French or Dutch, there are so many ways to do a braid, and a plait never fails to make a hairstyle look more interesting. Just when you thought you’d seen every possible braid, we now have masses of new ways to wear them. From an updated milkmaid to a daring cornrow, the braid is definitely one of this summer’s hot looks. Our gorgeous model had a lot of long, thick hair which made this really quite easy. The best approach is to create lots of random plaits positioned around the head and secure with small bands before draping them over the surface of the head to gain maximum coverage. It’s always a good option to cover the top areas first and if you have super long tresses then move to the perimeter. You’ll need some small bobby pins in the appropriate colour to secure the plaits to the base of the pony tails. It’s good to make it look quite random so it looks less placed, making it a bit cooler. You could also plait some false hair pieces and pin in with your own hair to create a fuller more substantial look. Another tip is not to create super-neat plaits; they looks much better when they have a slightly softer, fluffier feel to it to create an ‘undone’ look. Big up the braid! Michael Young and Gary Hooker run awardwinning Hooker & Young, with five salons regionwide. See www.hookerandyoung.co.uk for salon details.
Plait’s just gorgeous MAY/JUN15
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berry good show
LIVE TO SHOP with WENDY GIBSON
Go with the flow Seaham Hall racks up the glamour for a yoga retreat with added pamper with that; from the mum with a new baby getting away with her own mum to the health professional escaping from the paperwork and busy diary. The yoga session is from 9.30 to 11 and includes a lie-back relaxation session and awareness breathing. Lying on the floor doing nothing because you’re told to really should be on prescription. We then shoot off to the Serenity Spa and get to grips with the plunge pools, steam rooms and outdoor hot-tub before the treatment included in the package which is a back and shoulder massage or a facial. I went for the neck-unknotting massage which was the perfect mix with the yoga, good body shake-out and de-stress. Lunch in the Ozone restaurant within the spa was light and lovely and full of wellbeing enrichment. Starters of confit duck pancake rolls then a light Thai prawn curry were light but satisfying, full of flavour - and just some water to drink, how good were we being? Didn’t want to undo all the hard work. More spa time to be had then back to the grand ballroom which was our yoga base with its snazzy and colourful yoga mats. The second section was slower-paced with more time to think about stretching, breathing and developing techniques learned in the morning. I have to say that for a novice, this session was tiring though Vicky is great at directing you to the right moves and stretches for your ability. The meditation at the end of the session, based on what’s called a yoga Nidra meditation was superb, a great way to end a Sunday and prepare you for the rigours of a working week. The yoga retreat days are £200 including a treatment, spa use, meals, snacks and tuition and are planned thoughout the year.
When Wendy met Mary... Berrymania – it’s a new word that entered our consciousness, thanks to the Great British Bake Off. And here I was on a rainy day in spring, ready to meet and quiz the queen of cakes on her style, both personal, and at home. Mrs B was opening the very cool Barker&Stonehouse store on Teesside Retail Park. She’s a real deal personality, diminutive, charming with periwinkle blue eyes, and one of the strongest and longest work ethics I know. She’s been working virtually non-stop since the age of 17. Now, having just celebrated her eightieth birthday, she says that the best time of her life is “right now”. She’s always earned her own money, and rubbed shoulders with the likes of David Niven, who used to carry her skis, and nowadays Hugh Jackman, who she met on the Graham Norton show, and who she confessed to me was “absolutely dishy”. She is surely one of the people retailers with their eye on the ‘grey pound’ should be looking to. She shops the high street, with Zara, Jaeger and Whistles among her choices. For the red carpet she sports Damsel in a Dress, elegant and glamorous. Navy is her favourite colour. But, just like the Queen, she rocks brights when she needs to be seen. Hence the jackets which sell out as soon as Mary is seen wearing them. From florals, to biker jackets, like the Duchess of Cambridge, Mary is a designer’s best friend. She wears it, then it sells out! As we sat in our Harris tweed chairs for a chat in front of the assembled audience, Mary confessed to loving the look and feel of Harris tweed, and to having spotted a fabulous antler shaped light fitting downstairs.
But she was also bang up to date, having seen, and admired, the amazing designs by Brit designer Timothy Oulton, something of a global rock star, with cutting edge collections, from sofas, to amazing lighting, pictures, and accessories. He is the total package. And top marks must go to Barker and Stonehouse’s powerhouse of design and merchandising, Claire, who has done such a great job with the store. As we talked style, Mary revealed she is a fan of the comfy shoe, particularly on long days on the Bake Off, and I must say, that I too now embrace the flat, on all but the glitziest of occasions!
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
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Vicky Hood may be about to give birth but that doesn’t stop her more than executing extreme yoga moves. Or moves that seem extreme to us beginners on her one-day Yoga Retreat within the calming cream walls of Seaham Hall. Looking at bendy, supple Vicky, you just know that childbirth is going to be a doddle and when baby day comes she’ll be looking just as perky as the Duchess of Cambridge did hours after giving birth, only minus the army of on-hand royal stylists. Vicky is here to get our energy flowing, our joints mobilised and our minds alert. This is the first one-day Yoga Retreat at Seaham Hall and among its participants are the beginners, the ‘give it a go’ and the very accomplished yoga practitioners who have joined us from Vicky’s regular classes. Such a cliché, but boy do they make it all look so easy. The day is designed to offer an insight into yoga practice and Vicky is a very good advert for it. She has a huge knowledge and experience, having been a fitness instructor before setting up Sunderland Yoga Studio. She’s an advanced Pilates instructor and one of a select group who possess an Advanced 500hr Sivananda Yoga Instructor qualification. She has travelled extensively to further her yoga experience at retreats and has an interest in post-natal yoga and injury preventing, non-forceful Hatha and Ashtanga Yoga. The morning session starts with group introductions, it’s a very friendly crowd, and a drink and some little fruit bowls to make us feel virtuous on a Sunday morning. In a couple of hours we will be diving in to mid-morning snacks of less healthy but nevertheless delicious baked focaccia with tomatoes and herbs. The morning yoga session sees us start with sun salutations and strengthening asanas to get the body moving. It is liberating opening yourself up, stretching and bending, taking meaningful ‘stop and think about it’ breaths and just thinking about what you are doing. On retreats like this, the benefit is as much about the ‘me-time’, the escape from the usual routine and doing something for yourself. Everyone on the course agrees
Find out more and soothe your soul by calling Serenity Spa, 0191 516 1400 www.seaham-hall.com
Lying on the floor doing nothing because you’re told to really should be on prescription
MAY/JUN15
smoothie anyone?
Stem cell technology allows us to deliver to the body exactly the same signals that it needs to repair and to regenerate the tissues The Luminesce range is the first in the world to use human adult stem cell technology for its skin rejuvenating products. The company is headed up by Dr Nathan Newman, a world-renowned cosmetic surgeon with a cosmetic surgery practice in Beverly Hills, California. He became aware of the uses for stem cell technology in cosmetics after seeing it work in patients with facial disfigurements following cancer surgery. In one case, after treatment with stem cells, jaw bone and skin re-grew on a man whose face had a deep hole left after surgery. It became clear to Dr Newman that the technology could be used in skincare, with stem cells encouraging skin renewal and replenishing collagen. “Stem cell technology is very important to medicine and to the cosmetic industry”, says Dr Newman. “It allows us to deliver to the body exactly the same signals that it needs to repair and to regenerate the tissues”. Dr Newman began searching for a topical treatment to help patients recovering from burns and severe injuries. Knowing that stem cells drive cell growth and regeneration, he isolated the stem cell growth factors that serve as the “language” communicating cellular activity. Although other scientists were using plant-based growth factors, Dr Newman derived his growth factors from the stem cells of healthy adults, theorising that cell communication in the same “language” would be more effective. The results were remarkable. His 200+ growth factor complex is the magic in the product range. This potent growth factor complex can rejuvenate skin cells faster resulting in increased collagen and elastin for firmer skin tone. The Luminesce range includes a detox cleanser, day and night cream, cellular regeneration serum (the key product), and 30-minute lifting mask. Products cost from £39 to £110. A box of 50 Instantly Ageless vials is £54.75. You get 4-5 uses from each vial. To order: www.nadiabaldissera.jeunesseglobal.com Email: nk.baldissera@gmail.com
Eyes right You won’t believe your eyes. Literally. Say hello to an amazing, instant needle-free wrinkle treatment that does exactly what it says on the packet! Kathryn Armstrong reports…
The pub is hardly the obvious place to be testing out a new skincare product. But here we are on a Friday night, de-wrinkling an assortment of middle-aged folks; a case of no-needle Botox between the beermats. The chaps might be sinking the beer but these imageconscious fellows are more than happy to offer up their eyebags to the touch of Nadia Baldissera, above, and an application of the rather miraculous product, Instantly Ageless. Before long there’s a collection of us doing the ‘one-side’ test with an application of the wonder cream applied beneath just one eye. Even to the biggest sceptic the results are remarkable. The cream just fades away puffy eyebags and tightens the skin, as our tester Howard shows, pictured right.
MAY/JUN15
Years younger in less than five minutes. The effect lasts for about nine hours, so the product is the perfect pick-up for a big day or special occasion. An application will perk you up for a wedding, a job interview or a fabulous night out. It comes in small sachets that will do about three applications so you just pat it on as and when you need it. The ‘magic’ is the peptide ingredient Argireline and Instantly Ageless is one of the products in a ground-breaking skincare collection from a company called Jeunesse. The products are taking the UK by storm and Yarm-based Nadia, who is Australian, is a distributor for Jeunesse. She’s so convinced by the company and its products that she’s even left behind a dream job running superyachts in the south of France to spread the Jeunesse word. Though Instantly Ageless is the short-term ‘wow’ product, the Jeunesse skincare range called Luminesce uses stem cell technology to create skincare rejuvenation products.
Before
After
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feel the heat
Riviera vibe
WARM UP
Chanel’s summer range is a glorious homage to Art Deco Riviera life, where Coco loved to spend glamorous summers. Sun-kissed colours with intensity and glow for holiday faces. The colour palette reflects the sunny shores. We love the deep turquoise nail colour, £18 and this soft sandy shimmer, £40.50. On counter.
It seems indulgent to be thinking of ‘after sun’ before we’ve even had a glimpse of it but Clarins’ After Sun Shimmer Oil is a limited edition treat for the promise of beach days. A touch of shimmer, a bit of post-heat calming and juicy scents of zingy mandarin, grapefruit and ylang ylang. £32. Limited Edition AquaticTreasures Summer Bronzing Compact, £30 comes embossed with a marine inspired motif in a sweep of colour shade.
Sun safe It’s wise to get your sun protection right and nice to make it smell and feel like a skincare treat too. Darphin’s new Soleil Plaisir Anti-Ageing Sun Care Collection provides protection and prevention for delicate facial skin. With fragrance of white flowers and a silky texture. £29.50 for 50ml. www.darphin.co.uk
The Ford edit We’re always a bit swoony when Tom Ford launches for summer. The wit of a lipstick called Skinny Dip, £37, the arrival of a shimmering and fragrant body oil that you know will be after-beach perfect and the slim and tactile bronzer in its perfect case and colour, both £68. Go see at Tom Ford, Fenwick.
Beauty:update We can start to think of our summer hols and sunny days can’t we…
Eyes have it
Intense eye colour is big at the moment. Stay-put shimmer and punchy pigment. Kate Middleton said to be a fan. Urban Decay unveil a new range of velvety eyeshadows in shades like blue, gold and, peach. £13 on counter, House of Fraser.
Go with the glow Michael Kors’ new Into the Glow Colour Collection includes new Hydrating Bronze Gel Crème, £25, Lip Luster glosses, £21.50, Nail Lacquers in sorbet shades, £15, Bronze Powder with giant mirror, which we love, £34, and Liquid Shimmer Dry Oil Spray, £40. Bring on summer!
Celebrate They made a muslin a must-use and to celebrate their 20th anniversary, Liz Earle launches a limited-edition Cleanse & Polish Trio, with three versions of the classic cleanser, each one with a different fragrant twist on their award-winning formula. £50, John Lewis, Newcastle
Father’s Day inspiration
Daddy de-tox
Man MOT A Man Space Spa Day at Rockliffe Hall will have him in fine fettle for the summer. It includes Pure Performance facial for men or a Sportsman’s full body massage to ease muscular tension as well as spa use, lunch and gym. £130. www.rockliffehall.com
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Intense Tom Ford, always a winner. Noir, £62, is one for fans of a heady oriental fragrance and Noir Extreme, £70, takes the amber-drenched scent to the next level. On counter at Fenwick, Newcastle.
See that he scrubs up well. Origins harnesses the power of Bamboo Charcoal to help draw out pore cloggers in new Clear Improvement body products, designed to purify and detoxify the skin below the chin. Body scrub, £25 and wash, £19, remove the gunge and make boy skin squeaky clean and super-smooth. On counter at Fenwick.
MAY/JUN15
BESPOKE WEDDING HAIR
Shake It Up >> We all enjoy a relaxing day at the hair salon with a cup of tea and a feast of mags but now you can add a haircare cocktail to the mix. Elysia Agnew gives it a go Trying to find a suitable hair care product amongst the thousands out there is like trying to find a needle in a haystack. But this one is something of a diamond in the rough. Milk_shake is an Italian salon professional hair care brand using vitamins, milk proteins and fruit extracts which is branching out into salons across the North East. I tried out the products for myself. My dry and hungry highlighted hair needed feeding: it absolutely drinks conditioner, with no real reward of silky-soft hair, so a natural product packed with nourishing ingredients was what the hair doc ordered. The Milk_shake specialists applied an argan oil and whipped cream cocktail to my hair. The result was remarkable. I didn’t have to go into battle with my comb to get through my long locks, my colour lifted and it smelt good enough to eat. In fact, it’s that good, it is edible, but I didn’t! I looked like a born-again blonde with super soft locks! In order to get a result like this myself I would have had to continually treat my hair for weeks with a fairly expensive and possibly damaging high-street product. A straight, silky and sleek look that I would usually spend hours in front of the mirror with my straighteners to achieve was complete within minutes, with no heat damage and plenty of nourishment. Milk_shake’s salon products include shampoos, conditioners, styling products, colours and milk masks. Some of the conditioning treatments such as the whipped cream leave-in conditioner can double-up as moisturiser for the body too. Salons across the North East are promoting their treatments as ‘product cocktails’. You will find a ‘Cocktail Menu’ at your salon chair and the pleasantly smelling cocktail of products will be prepared in front of you rather than out of sight, disguising those awful ammonia odours. The Milk_shake direct colours are great because they are not permanent. They are a conditioning product, pushing moisture into the hair as well as colouring it. The colour can last between 6-12 weeks, allowing you to have a bit of fun and try out new dos without committing to anything permanent or damaging. I’ve been using the products for just over a week now and I am totally hooked. It’s a valuable and natural thickening treatment resembling all the goodness of milkshakes and cocktails. www.milkshakehaircare.co.uk
S P E C I A L I S T S I N B R I DA L PA RT Y S T Y L I N G
I N S A LO N O R O N LO C AT I O N A N Y W H E R E I N T H E R E G I O N
Bannatyne Health Club, Eden Tce, Belmont 0191 386 3055 Wynyard Hall Hotel, Wynyard 01740 665 404
STEP INTO
SPRING £55 for 55 minute treatment to include: • INVIGORATING FOOT AND LOWER LEG MASSAGE • SPRING CLEANSE FACIAL • NECK SHOULDER AND SCALP MASSAGE • REFRESHING GLASS OF PIMMS AND LEMONADE • FULL USE OF THE HEALTH CLUB FACILITIES • USE OF THE RELAXATION ROOM • ROBES, TOWELS AND SLIPPERS PROVIDED
Up includesgrade back exf a 25 min massageoliation & for £20 Add a T ra ditional afternoo n £15.50 tea for only per pers on
AVAILABLE TO BOOK APRIL, MAY AND JUNE To book, call
01434 673 193 Slaleyspa@qhotels.co.uk QHotels.co.uk/SlaleyHall
Slaley Hall, Slaley, Hexham, NE470BX
MAY/JUN15
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house style in association with
www.greatlook.co.uk
Dipping into Deco Bauhaus on the beach and Art Deco by the sea. Newcastle architect Kevin Brown creates ‘look-at-me’ seaside places
The Haven is a real landmark in the coastal village of Beadnell. It stands proud on a corner at the harbour entrance to the village where it commands fine views of the coast. Its full-height curved window, striking white paint and black railings mark it out as a ‘look at me house’ which echoes its Art Deco heritage. But it’s been a journey and a case of deconstructing the decades. The house was built in the 30s and has been through a wealth of renovations and what might loosely be called ‘improvements’. It was rescued by the current owners in 2005 when it looked a million miles from the property it is today. It started out as a flat-roofed building in the 1930s built as the village Co-op store. For years it was the village store with living accommodation above. Photographs show it with a flat roof and bay windows to the front with the shop at the side. In the 80s a pitched roof was added, windows moved, extensions built and lots of light brown wood tacked on, making it a property of its time. But as we all know, with a house it is all about location, location, location. The Haven’s location is as good as it gets with a little path to a small sandy bay known as Haven Beach, from where the owner swims when the weather is good. It’s great for paddling and rock pooling too. Kevin Brown from Sadler Brown Architects in Newcastle was the man behind the restoration of the coastal property and a more recent and striking new-build in Lyme Bay, East Devon, this one with a Bauhaus influence. The Devon house with its cliff-top location is stunning, with far-reaching views, different again from its Northumberland counterpart. Both houses share a feeling of clarity and space with vast windows that allow the light to flood in as well as making a feature of the ever-changing skies and weather patterns. The owners of the Devon house wanted a Modernist property, inspired by a Bauhaus design they had seen. Their brief was a large living space with corridors, a snug and a larder. A galleried library area overlooks the sitting room below with breathtaking sea views. >>
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Location, location, location: a little path leads to a small sandy bay from where the owner swims when the weather is good Through the ages >> Top to bottom, The Haven today, in the 1930s and after renovations in the 1980s
MAY/JUN15
Introducing Aurajet™ Methven’s most advanced, most invigorating shower experience ever. A unique halo design delivering 20% more spray force and twice the amount of water contact on your skin than a conventional shower*.
Looks amazing, feels divine.
*Compared to a Methven conventional shower
Available from
10 Stirling Court, Eleventh Avenue North, Team Valley, NE11 0JF www.h2obdc.co.uk
Is your stair making the first impression you want for your home? A Wood Idea are based in Blaydon and have converted stairs throughout the North East, making bold and stylish statements worthy of any home. They can make use of your existing flight, removing all non-structural elements and replacing them with materials of your choice. This method creates the minimum of disruption and in most cases can be completed within two to three days. From traditional timber to glass and metals, A Wood Idea can bring style and individuality to your home. A Wood Idea specialise in high quality timber products for home and commercial use. Hardwood flooring, internal wooden doors, staircases and bespoke fitting including associated building works are now part of the portfolio.
“Now that’s a Wood Idea”
A WOOD IDEA GREAT IDEAS IN WOOD FLOORING & DOORS
Staircases I Flooring I Doors Unit 4, Blaydon Trade Park, Toll Bridge Road, Blaydon, Tyne & Wear. NE21 5TR
T:
0191 414 1300 F: 0191 414 1306 www.awoodidea.com
Visit:
house style in association with
www.greatlook.co.uk
Bauhaus bright >> The property in Devon with its calm, Modernist-style maximises the light with huge windows to frame ever-changing sea and big-sky views
Bedrooms look seawards and have balconies. Like the Beadnell house, the interior is painted white and in The Haven, there is an ‘ocean-liner’ feel with black railings on the terraces that offer up fine sea views. In Beadnell, the grand stair tower on the front of the building is inspired by the Art Deco period with curves and long, lean lines. It is the definite wow factor from the outside. Says Kevin: “In Beadnell the original design was of Art Deco appearance, ie flat roofs, white rendered walls, metal casement windows etc. The design was similar to a number of properties built in Beadnell in the same era, and typical of many built as seaside dwellings. There are many Art Deco-style properties in Beadnell which retained the essential Deco design elements such as flat roofs, rendered walls and general clean angular lines. “We made the main living accommodation at first floor level in order to maximise the views seawards over the tops of opposite buildings and built a sun room with balcony access on the north and west sides and study to the east side of the stair tower to observe the sea
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bird colonies that occupy the rocky shoreline.” The Devon house was landscaped by Alistair Baldwin, the man who is currently creating Wynyard Hall’s walled garden. In Beadnell the owners were inspired by a visit to the Victoria and Albert Museum in London where they saw a floor-to-ceiling fireplace that they recreated and painted white to blend in with the walls. The woodwork such as skirting boards and door trims in The Haven are painted black and there are Deco trims on the doors throughout. Glass bricks have also been added in dividing walls and as features in some of the doorways. The Beadnell owners usually spend the winter months in their Northumberland home, which sleeps nine. They rent out the property in the summer months, its layout makes it a good family house with three storeys and separate lounges, all with balconies and those big views. The main lounge is on the first floor where the layout is what you could describe as a polo mint! At the top of the stairs you take a right to the lounge which then curves round to the kitchen and a balcony.
Next floor up there’s another lounge, balcony and outside terrace. One of the best rooms is one of the tiniest, the office of dreams; surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows with amazing views. Snug, private and a haven indeed. www.beadnellhaven.co.uk
The owners of the Devon house wanted a Modernist property, inspired by a Bauhaus design they had seen. Large living space with corridors, a snug and a larder MAY/JUN15
• Kitchens • Bedrooms • Bathrooms • Lounge • Dining Room • Windows • Orangeries • Bi-fold doors • Full interior design service • Building work
www.greatlook.co.uk 0191 4913836 Visit our stunning showroom 10th Avenue West | Team Valley | Gateshead | NE11 0HL | Opposite Retail World
the right lines in association with
www.greatlook.co.uk
Deco: get the look
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£425, www.chandel
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>> Baker Arc bench, www.bakerfurniture.com
irror, lar m
>> French Brown Leather Club Chair, £895, www.theoldcinema.co.uk
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>> Gatsby Art Deco black leather barstool, £525, www.alexanderandpearl.co.uk
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c i rc u r zo
>> Deco design cushion, £40, www.oscarfrancis.co.uk
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>> Striped wallpaper, www.farrow-ball.com
MAY/JUN15
LUXE LIFE
John McCoy John McCoy is something of a legend on the music scene in the North East. As a promoter and musician he brought the likes of Rod Stewart, Eric Clapton, Geno Washington and Jimi Hendrix to legendary venue, The Kirk, near Yarm. This year marks 50 years since The Kirk first opened, and boy, does John have some memories Luxe pEOPLE >> My wife, Jojo, kids Bruno, Freddie and Louis, Joanne, Josie, Emily (the lovely WAGS). Grandkids Ella, Lily, Olivia, Noah, Elwood and the one in the oven. The indigenous people of the North East and Dublin, where I spent my formative years. Jackeen, Smoggy, Geordie, Mackem, what a cocktail. Luxe places >> For a weekend > South beach Miami, New York on the beach: Art Deco hotels, live blues ‘n’ jazz, great, bars and bistros A long holiday > La Mola Club, Puerto de Andraitx, Mallorca the iconic “Kirk and “Julies“ on the sea but gone now. Or hotel Agua Blava near Cadaques, Costa Brava A treat > Chris Blackwell’s Stawberry Hill, Jamaica or the Chateau Marmont on Sunset, West Hollywood, my home from home in the ‘70’s luxe relax >> Best food > Roger Verge’s Moulin de Mougin, Cannes or Raymond Blanc’s Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons, Oxfordshire. Perfect weekend > Chelsea Arts Club for a meet up with old London friends for an 8-hour Sunday lunch Luxe sounds > Joni Mitchell, Dylan, Hendrix, Little Feat, Ry Cooder. I love all jazz /blues/folk Book > The Ginger Man, JP Donleavy, an hilarious transcript of Dublin as I knew it in the ‘50’s luxe shop >> Shopping city > New York Shop > Dean & Deluca, 500 Broadway for when you need a left-handed parmesan grater. Best buy > a pair of unworn secondhand Loake handmade ‘50’s brogues, £18 on ebay LUXE Party >> Lulu’s bash, circa 1965: Beatles, Lionel Bart, Oliver Reed, Moody Blues, Long John Baldry, Rod Stewart, Cathy McGowan, Julie Christie, Jean Shrimpton, Jagger, Richards, David Bailey etc Best dress > The one I swapped with Grayson Perry at the Chelsea Arts Club summer ball Memorable night out > Dinner at Elaine’s then James Taylor at the Beacon Theatre, Broadway, then an after show party and a good time had by all Luxe things in Life >> At 75? Waking up, fair good health, enjoying the last rose of summer and hoping to see the Christmas one
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story of the blues
TREND WATCH with Bryan Middleton Blue sky thinking comes home for summer >> Bloomingville side table, £99, Amara www.amara.com >> Blue Oslo pendant, £40, Next, www.next.co.uk
There’s something cool, contemporary and summery about blue hues. Never a ‘trendy’ colour, shades of blue instead stand the test of time and there are blues to suit every room. Make sure you work out the warms from the cools when it comes to painting with blue and steer away from using steely grey blues in cooler, shady north-facing rooms. But using blue in your interiors offers so much scope. Use a colour pop sofa as a bold statement piece against white walls; few things look as good as crisp white against blues. Mix and match colours and textures, navy denim and blue-grey linen for example. Perky bright and light blues are modern and fresh and love sunny rooms. It’s a great time of year to go for blue, get in the mood for summer’s blue skies and sparkling seas!
>> Heal’s 1810 wave lambswool throw, £120, www.heals.co.uk >> Chinese Print Floor Cushion, £49.99, Homesense, www.homesense.com >> Blue Butterflies cushion by Jan Constantine, £96, www.janconstantine.com >> Kelly Swallow Antique Grain Sack Linen Sofa, £2200, www.kellyswallow.com
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>>
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>> Stitched Circle denim cushion, £75, www.cushlab.com
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LUXE LOCAL
Saltburn Once a grand Victorian resort, Saltburn-by-the-Sea now finds its ranks swollen by those who want to tick a ‘quality of life’ box. A brilliant beach, clifftop walks and ever-changing skies make it a place surfers, artists and families like to call home Properties >> Huge Victorian villas, rooms with a view and charming terraces have their place here, many clad in the distinctive white brick manufactured by the town’s founding father Henry Pease. He built the town 150 years ago after having an apparition of a heavenly city perched high above the cliffs. CONNECTED >> City links aren’t a strong point but there are trains to Darlington twice an hour if you fancy hooking up with the East Coast Mainline. Far better to stay rural, half an hour by road to Whitby and in 10 minutes you can be in the heart of the North York Moors. SHOP >> In the town’s renowned independent shops. Quirky antiques and collectibles from Northern Light Interiors, unusual gifts from The Cave and Brambles, yummy
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deli produce from Real Meals, home-made chocolate from Chocolinis, old-fashioned sweets from Scott and Beatty. The farmers’ market outside Sainsbury’s is a huge pull the second Saturday of every month while the Food Fayre that takes over Milton Street the first Sunday in August features local, regional and international stalls, top chefs, foodie demos and sausage, chocolate and cheese-making workshops. STROLL >> There are eight miles of wide, honeyed beaches for a start, the inspiration for Lewis Carroll’s The Walrus and the Carpenter. Or if you’re feeling more energetic, stride up the majestic Hunt Cliff and join the Cleveland Way, 110 miles of stunning scenery that runs from Helmsley to Filey. On a fine day you will not walk alone. Take the charming water-powered furnicular down to the beach (one of the oldest in the world) and saunter along the Grade 2
listed pier, home in the summer to the acclaimed yarn bombers’ knitting. Miles of sands will keep the children happy while the waves have made Saltburn a year round destination for surfers from around the country. Catch the pier at dusk when the pier and cliff lift are gently and quite magically illuminated. From the beach, take the miniature railway through the beautiful wooded Valley Gardens to reach the Italian Gardens and tea lawn. EAT >> The best fish and chips this side of The Magpie at Whitby are to be found at the Seaview Restaurant and takeaway on the lower promenade. Be warned though, huge queues! Head to Rapps Café for great pizzas, moules frites and home-made burgers. For a special occasion, their sister restaurant Kings Grill hits the culinary spot.
The Sitting Room near the railway station offers tea and cake in gloriously vintage style with a seamless transition to cool evening cocktails. Posh Indian restaurant Jadoo does the best curry in town. Laugh >> Enjoy the best comedians on the circuit at the monthly Big Mouth Comedy Club. www.bigmouthcomedy.co.uk Films, theatre, comedy and music at Saltburn Community Theatre. www.saltburnarts.co.uk Free concerts on the bandstand at 2.30pm every Saturday and Sunday throughout the summer. Stay >> The newly-refurbished Spa Hotel on Saltburn Bank has views to die for and an acclaimed afternoon tea. www.thespahotelsaltburn.co.uk For something a little different, head a couple of miles out of town to boutique camp site Baby Moon. Cosy yurts with toasty wood burning stoves, barbecue and breakfast baskets, a range of therapies and massages plus tea shop and vintage gift emporium. £95 per yurt (sleeps 4). www.babymooncamp.com
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LUXE LOCAL
my local Jon Kelly is a broadcast producer and the new owner of Saltburn’s Spa Hotel, having returned to his childhood town after spending most of his adult life living and working in a city. Three good things about living here >> Sea: I never, ever tire of being by the sea and having miles of sandy beach to walk on. And I am just as enthralled by it on a glorious sunny day as I am on a wild and dramatic stormy night. There is just no sound quite like it. I first came here 25 years ago and what I love is seeing how the town has evolved. Tradition: There’s a side to it that hasn’t changed all that much, quite rightly. But it is complemented by a town that has shaped a new identity based on the arts, its Victorian heritage and driven, local people who are really keen to see Saltburn carve out a special niche for itself on this beautiful stretch of coastline. Architecture: They say you should always look up when you are walking around any town and that is so true of Saltburn. For a small town the architecture is so grand and imposing. Friends who visit our hotel always comment on how amazing the buildings are and it is so easy to take it for granted but when you consider that our little hotel was designed by the same architect who designed the Natural History Museum and Manchester’s stunning Gothic Town Hall then it is something to be proud of. Three places to take visitors >> Hunt Cliff: We get a lot of walkers staying at the hotel and I always tell them that when they reach the top of Hunt Cliff they should always stop and take it in properly. It is totally still and silent up there and well worth the slightly arduous trek...weather permitting! The Real Staithes Experience just down the coast. A walk along the foreshore, coastal craft, foraging and fossil hunting in fresh rock fall topped off with fresh lobster and gin in the cosiest fisherman’s hut I have ever been in. Perfect day out. A Pamper in our Amber Rooms As the owner of The Spa Hotel I would of course suggest pampering yourself in our Amber Rooms Holistic Treatment Centre before having sparkling afternoon tea in the conservatory restaurant enjoying the best views in the region...and hang around long enough to see the cliff turn a stunning gold colour as the sun sets on a gorgeous day by the sea
property: three to choose Victorian villa Close to the sea, everyone will want to be your friend so there’s a handy self-contained ‘come and stay’ wing.
£800,000 Ingleby’s, Saltburn
Imposing entrance Handsome red-brick house with an artisan chocolate shop for a near neighbour, what could be tastier?
£675,000 Robson Carter, Saltburn
property watch with DUNCAN YOUNG
…AND NOW BACK TO BUSINESS By the time you read this, the election will be long gone. Regardless of the outcome, many of us will be pleased to see an end to the daily attack of politics-led articles and counter fighting between the leading parties. In respect of the housing market the two major parties have offered a number of interesting incentives to the electorate and they both agreed some months ago to support the financial aid available to first-time buyers, which could provide up to £3,000 towards a deposit. It is incentives like this that help move the market and encourage those currently living with parents and friends to own their first home. It is rather shocking that such a high percentage of young people are still living with their parents and that the average age is now nearly seven years older than a decade ago. It is these people, in particular, that we need to provide an incentive for, since jobs were hard to come by once the recession started in 2007. Home ownership gives a great deal of pride and it is essential that we move positively forward with the business of improving the economy, creating more jobs and increasing home ownership. Interest rates have been historically low for the last eight years and are likely to continue to be low for some time to come. The variety of products available and their competitiveness is increasing and I am reliably informed by my colleagues in the mortgage world that the criteria for those mortgages will be relaxed and greater products made available for those who can only afford a 5, 10 or 15 per cent deposit, which is great news. In 2015 we have seen increasing demand for houses in the lower value ranges and I very much hope that, as we get back to normal trading conditions, confidence will rise throughout all price levels and we will be able to establish a true and fair reflection of what property is worth in all areas of the region. The art of good governments and leadership should surely be their ability to bring consistency to supply and demand, so that people can carefully budget for their outgoings and rely upon their income. We have all experienced tremendous peaks and troughs in the housing market and in the economy over recent years and many of us now look forward to working and living in more stable conditions with less risk and more security. May, June and July are great months to be moving. Houses will benefit from the beauty of their gardens and, hopefully, from a much improved climate and outdoor living space. As the political uncertainties are removed, and as the government gets on with making the UK stronger, we, in the housing market, look forward to moving as many people as possible in times to come. Whether you are considering a sale, or a possible letting of your home, please do not hesitate to contact the specialist in your area for professional advice from people who have the maturity, experience and knowledge to guide you correctly.
Panoramic views This is why you like to be beside the seaside. Bask in the views from floor-to-ceiling windows in this stylish apartment
£350,000 Ingleby’s, Saltburn Duncan G Young Dip.Est.Man.FNAEA, Managing Director, Sanderson Young duncan.young@sandersonyoung.co.uk 0191 223 3500
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SELLING THE REGION’S FINEST HOMES
Jesmond A rare opportunity to purchase a highly individual and luxurious home in the heart of Jesmond, representing one of Newcastle’s finest town mansions. This elegant, four storey detached family house is set in approximately one acre of south facing landscaped gardens and accommodates a bespoke open plan Poggenpohl kitchen, six double en-suite bedrooms, four stunning, large reception rooms and a leisure suite with full size pool.
Guide Price: £3.995 Million
South Lodge
Belle Vue Lane, East Boldon Occupying a site of just under 5.5 acres on the southern boundaries of Boldon is this very grand detached Grade II listed country home. The property is one of only four separate dwellings and accessed from a small local road known as Belle Vue Lane. The gardens and grounds are very impressive, with four grazing paddocks, five stables, haystore and a large disused tennis court, as well as greenhouses and kitchen/garden.
Guide Price: £1.25 Million
From Sanderson Young ALL CONFIDENTIAL ENQUIRIES TO 0191 223 3500 OR EMAIL: DUNCAN.YOUNG@SANDERSONYOUNG.CO.UK | WWW.SANDERSONYOUNG.CO.UK
SELLING THE REGION’S FINEST HOMES
Middle Leazes
Leazes Lane, Hexham Middle Leazes enjoys an elevated position, with gardens and grounds extending to circa half an acre. The impressive four/five bedroom detached house is understood to date back to the early 1600s and the current owners have carried out extensive improvement works, including the addition of a double storey and single storey wing to the southern elevation of the house. A delightful home for which viewing is strongly recommended.
Guide Price: £895,000
Cartref
Marchburn Lane, Riding Mill Very well located in this most popular and well sought after area of Riding Mill is this attractive 5 bedroom detached family home. The property was constructed in 1923 and purchased by the current owners in 2000 and since that time has been greatly improved, refurbished and maintained. The house offers beautiful family accommodation for which viewing is highly recommended.
Guide Price: £795,000
From Sanderson Young ALL CONFIDENTIAL ENQUIRIES TO 0191 223 3500 OR EMAIL: DUNCAN.YOUNG@SANDERSONYOUNG.CO.UK | WWW.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 REDBROOKE, PARK AVENUE, HARTLEPOOL Situated in Hartlepool’s most prestigious road, boasting the best address in town is only one of Redbrooke’s many attributes. Safe and secure behind electric gates off leafy Park Avenue, this is an imposing, unique five bedroom home that is as glamorous as it is grand. Comfort levels are exceptional throughout the property and the space, light and soothing décor combine to give a calm and relaxing ambience. At the heart of the home is the outstanding kitchen with breakfast bar which also serves dining, sitting and family snug functions, and occupies an entire virtual ‘wing’ of the property. To the ground floor there is also a lounge and separate dining room. To the first floor a galleried landing has access to a private rear balcony, and stairs to the second floor comprising of cinema, games room, guest room with en-suite with a double shower cubicle. Bedrooms 2, 3 and 4 also have an en-suite bathroom, and a walk in wardrobe. The master suite on the second floor is a stunning and extensive room with en-suite bathroom and a private dressing area. A vanity room has bespoke fitted dressing table with granite tops. The rear of the property is a lawned garden with established shrubbery to borders, mature trees, large paved sun terrace and raised decked patio.
Contact: 0191 384 2277
LOWES FALL DURHAM
£895,000
RECTORY COTTAGE, BRANCEPETH, DURHAM
• Excellent four bedroom detached family home in a small and exclusive development, within a highly sought after area on the edge of Durham • The lower ground floor makes the most of the large rear garden, and upstairs offers generous bedrooms and high end bathrooms. • A strong property for entertaining, two sets of glazed double doors open into the dining room and a large lounge with a feature marble fireplace, picture windows and a further glazed door that leads out to steps down to a fabulous, bright garden room whose floor-to-ceiling windows draw in lots of natural light. • The beautiful and well maintained garden is private and sheltered with mature shrubs and areas of lawn, as well as paved paths and a patio. There is a double integral garage with doors operated by remote control and a large, block paved drive.
• A home of immense charm and character, 2 Rectory Cottage has everything a homeowner would want from a 300-year-old village property with history. Believed to have been the brew house for Brancepeth Rectory, the semi-detached cottage occupies a quiet position overlooking the wellkept village allotments and gardens. • The property has the cosy feel of a cottage and yet all the ground floor rooms are a very good size. The reception space comprises an almost square dining room with working Victorian fireplace and French doors that can be opened to the south-facing garden. • Set over three floors, there are two more rooms of character on the second floor with exposed king trusses and beams, ideal for an older child’s bedroom and games room or study area, or as home office space. • As well as side parking for up to three vehicles, the property benefits from having a secure, stone-built outhouse. The property lies within the conservation area and there are walks on the doorstep, making this a true character cottage in the country.
Contact: 0191 384 2277
£595,000 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
£385,000 Cumbria 0845 872 5453
creative and intelligent marketing of individual and country property
...300 offices worldwide BLACK WOOD WYNYARD Situated in Hartlepool’s most prestigious road, boasting the best address in town is only one of Redbrooke’s many attributes. Safe and secure behind electric gates off leafy Park Avenue, this is an imposing, unique five bedroom home that is as glamorous as it is grand. Comfort levels are exceptional throughout the property and the space, light and soothing décor combine to give a calm and relaxing ambience. At the heart of the home is the outstanding kitchen with breakfast bar which also serves dining, sitting and family snug functions, and occupies an entire virtual ‘wing’ of the property. To the ground floor there is also a lounge and separate dining room. To the first floor a galleried landing has access to a private rear balcony, and stairs to the second floor comprising of cinema, games room, guest room with en-suite with a double shower cubicle. Bedrooms 2, 3 and 4 also have an en-suite bathroom, and a walk in wardrobe. The master suite on the second floor is a stunning and extensive room with en-suite bathroom and a private dressing area. A vanity room has bespoke fitted dressing table with granite tops. The rear of the property is a lawned garden with established shrubbery to borders, mature trees, large paved sun terrace and raised decked patio.
Contact: 01740 645 444
LINDEN AVENUE DARLINGTON
£795,000
AMERSTON CLOSE WYNYARD
• Superbly positioned in what is considered to be one of Darlington’s premier residential West End locations, Rose Garth is an outstanding large three bedroom Edwardian semi-detached villa built circa 1920 • Immaculate throughout, the property has undergone a period of sympathetic restoration and modernisation to the highest of standard, and has been enhanced further by the addition of a large ground floor extension. • With its unique charm and character Rose Garth offers many original features such as high beamed ceilings, panelled doors, period fireplaces and service bells which have been refurbished beautifully to working order. • To the exterior the rear garden is superbly landscaped with terraced lawns, fruit trees, deep floral borders and patio areas. High fencing and shrubbery provide privacy and security and a gravelled path leads to the delightful pergola and rose garden. Viewing is highly recommended and in fact this is only the second time Rose Garth has come to the market since 1942.
Contact: 0191 384 2277 Lakes 01539 733 500
Northumberland 0845 459 6000
sales@fineandcountry-lakes.co.ul
info@durhamfineandcountry.co.uk
• Set in substantial private grounds, 8 Amerston Close is a period style family home of scale with five bedrooms and a large private garden. • The earlier purchase of additional land also ensures that the outdoor space is both extensive and private. The property is set back from the road giving a wide, open aspect at the front with parking on block pacing for several vehicles, a detached triple garage and a formal, porticoes entrance. • The master suite comes with fitted wardrobes by ‘Christians’, a dressing room, en suite facilities and views over the rear garden and the nature reserve beyond. • The property occupies an excellent location in a quiet cul-de-sac close to Wynyard Woods and its rear garden adjacent to the nature reserve offers a very pleasant place in which to relax or play.
£375,000 Contact: 01740 645 444
£545,000
www.fineandcountry.com Head office: 121 Park Lane, Mayfair, London WIK 7AG.
Multi-award winning luxury estate agents in 300 locations worldwide
Thinking of Moving? No time like the present... Mark Finch Director
Angela Todd Sales Manager
At Fine & Country, we specialise in the sale of homes, cottages, large town houses, period properties, luxury apartments, houses with land and barn conversions. With headquarters in London’s Park Lane, a firm stance in the North East & along with 300 locations worldwide, Fine & Country is Britain’s leading network of independent estate agencies specialising in the sale of fine and country property, we offer Bespoke marketing Packages and take a unique approach to marketing property, focusing on the character of the house and the life that can be lived there.
Antonia Askew Marketing Specialist
Arrange a consultation with one of our offices and you can be assured of a professional service, tailored to your individual requirements.
Setting the Gold Standard! Fine and Country South Shields, 59 Fowler Street, South Shields, Tyne & Wear NE33 1NS 0191 4274955 southshields@fineandcountry.co.uk
Bernadette Wise Property Specialist
LUXE LIFE
Sarah Stewart For the past five years Sarah Stewart has been the chief executive of NewcastleGateshead Initiative (NGI), the local agency responsible for inspiring people to visit and invest in the area. Sarah moved to the North East in 1981 and also holds a number of other non-executive positions with VisitEngland, Arts Council North, Beamish Museum, Newcastle Cathedral, Newcastle University and Durham University Business School Luxe pEOPLE >> Family & friends, plus the great team I work with at NGI. Luxe places >> For a weekend > Walking in the Cheviots or Lake District. A long holiday > I am currently planning a trip to New Zealand in 2016. A treat > A relaxing night at home with the family. Luxe relax >> Best food > Anything cooked by my husband Alastair. Best wine > Champagne every time (it helps being married to a wine merchant). Favourite restaurant > My husband’s kitchen! Perfect weekend > Shopping and lunch out with my daughter Catherine, trip to St James’ with Alastair and
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son Nick and a walk at the Northumbrian coast with Lily our springer spaniel. Best telly > This week it’s Game of Thrones and Poldark. Best book > I’m currently reading Anne Cleeves’ Shetland novels which make me want to visit. Best sounds > A Royal Northern Sinfonia concert at Sage Gateshead and I saw Sting with The Last Ship at Sage recently which was superb. Luxe shop >> Best shopping city > NewcastleGateshead of course! Luxe retail treat: A pamper spa day with Catherine. Luxe party >> A memorable night out > Drinks and walk along Quayside followed by a play at any of our great local theatres.
Perfect party > Our annual Fireworks Party at home with 100 friends of all ages (Alastair’s firework displays get better every year). Work do/work event > North East businesses support so many charities and I regularly receive invites to attend interesting and fun fundraising events, such as the annual Clay Pigeon Shoot at Lambton Estate which is talking place in May for the Princes’ Trust. Best dress > I prefer casual and comfy rather than glamour! Dinner date > An impromptu supper party with close friends and family. Your luxe thing in life >> I feel very lucky to have been able to combine such a varied and challenging career with rewarding family life, and all in this beautiful part of the world.
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VINE ROMANCE
Raise a glass Vine-spotting in the heart of Bordeaux is a wine-lover’s dream. This is where the world’s most expensive ‘celebrity’ bottles are born. Kathryn Armstrong grabs a glass
This is hallowed land. We’ve stopped at revered names like Petrus. Pomerol and St Emilion where the streams of vines in front of us are priceless. Journey further to Margaux, Latour and Mouton-Rothschild and you build up quite a thirst. Not to mention the urge to stock the wine cellar of your dreams. This is the landscape of the world’s finest wines, the ‘terroir’ of Bordeaux that creates the flavour and nuance of the celebrities of the wine world. The best-known of the wine chateaux used to be ‘hands off’ for the visitor unless you were a serious buyer willing to make an appointment with intent to fill that cellar. Chateau La Dominique in St Emilion is among those changing all that. You might almost call it a ‘visitor centre’, quelle horreur! Albeit a very stylish one. For a start, it is one flamboyant building. There must have been howls of controversy when French architect Jean Nouvel revealed his design. In an endless landscape of flat soil and vines broken up only by church spires, small towns and chateaux gates, the daring design is ‘look at me’ bold. Red and shiny, the cellar building is covered in coloured tiles that reflect the hues of red wine in a glass. With this unique covering in
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its natural landscape you are almost in the glass as it plays with perception of the colour of the wine: the reflection, intensity, shades and deepness. Looking at it, you also see the age-old vines, which are reflected on the modern building itself from their soil. At the cellar you can see the process of wine-making then take a seat in a stunning (and packed to the rafters when we visited) restaurant to taste the wine and eat dishes reflecting the region. The roof is a panoramic terrace covered with red glass pebbles, representing symbolic grapes which the visitor can tread (and take home). Château La Dominique is a Grand Cru Classé of Saint-Emilion and close to the UNESCO World Heritage town of St Emilion which is a charming place to visit with steep cobbled streets, underground catacombs to explore and a wine museum to test your knowledge of the grape. Our base for the gourmet tour was Le St James Hotel in the heart of the village of Bouliac, 10km from Bordeaux in South-West France, The hotel’s link with Chateau La Domaine is the architect. The stunning contemporary hotel is designed by Jean Nouvel and its façade inspired by the tobacco drying barns in the region. It is striking and stylish inside from an unassuming entrance. Stylish, peppered with artworks and modern interior detail
All of the hotel’s bedrooms are finished with contemporary furniture created by famous designers such as Mies Van Der Rohe and Jean Prouvé. One even has a Harley Davidson motorbike as a ‘roomtime’ plaything
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vine romance
Sit back and sink >> Above: the St James bar, right and below, the contemporary-styled rooms and surrounding gardens
such as concrete walkways, oh and bright orange loo paper if you need such detail. The hotel is home to a cook school and impressive restaurant, headed up by Michelin-starred Chef Nicolas Magie. His imaginative, delicious menus are inspired by daily market offerings and are continuously changing with the seasons. The food is stunning. Stand-out dishes like wild turbot roasted on the bone with garden peas, broad beans and stuffed morels and lamb ‘Iberian’ roasted with honey coriander.
An impressive cheeseboard you might expect but a textbook lime soufflé with a waiter-delivered spoonful of hazelnut ice-cream cracking its crust was swooningly good to look at and taste. The restaurant has panoramic views of the Garonne, Bordeaux and the surrounding rows of Merlot vines that produce the “Vin du Jardin,” which is available at the hotel. One of the stars of the place is the unassuming sommelier Richard Bernard. His wine list has been described as the best in
France by Michelin. Richard’s cellar has around 2000 wines chosen by him. If you want to know what we drank with the afroementioned dishes, they included a Chateau Phelan-Segur 2008 St Estephe and a stunningly good Chateau Beychevelle 2010 St Julien. Real blow-your-mind wines made perfect by drinking them so close to their home. The unique hotel has 15 bedrooms and 3 suites, one with a terrace Jacuzzi with a fine view of the town’s church tower, a heated
outdoor swimming pool and terrace with vast vineyard and river views. All of the hotel’s bedrooms have preserved the spirit of Jean Nouvel’s original design and have been finished with contemporary furniture created by famous designers such as Mies Van Der Rohe and Jean Prouvé. One even has a Harley Davidson motorbike as a ‘roomtime’ plaything. Art is a real feature of the hotel with new works by different artists every three months including contemporary paintings, >>
Invest in Pescaglia, Tuscany LA POLLA IS CURRENTLY FOR SALE AT
¤395,000 (¤540,000 approx)
A 400 year old farmhouse for sale, La Polla has been renovated to a high standard without compromising its unique and historic charm. Although modernised, the farmhouse retains many original features including and old terracotta stove, terracotta floor tiles, chestnut beams and ancient wooden Tuscan main doors. Enjoying a slightly elevated, South facing position, La Polla offers fabulous views across the hills and valley. Easily accessible, shops can be found minutes away in the village of Trebbio, while the coast of Viareggio and the nearest airport of Pisa can be found within an hour. Accessed by a private road which winds through private woodland, the farmhouse can sleep 8 with 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. Ideally suited as both a family home or a holiday home, there is plenty to enjoy, with a private infinity pool, an easily maintained garden and terrace for dining alfresco. Whether purchased as a family home or a holiday home, there is much to explore when staying at La Polla. Why not take a daytrip to Florence (75 minutes) or explore Lucca, with its old city, renaissance architecture and thermal springs (25 minutes). The beautiful town of Barga (30 minutes) is also worth a visit; especially its walled, medieval city, 13th century church and wonderful views across the Garfagnana Mountains.
For more information, please visit www.ownersdirect.co.uk using the Rightmove Overseas ref 126061, email argaunt@hotmail.co.uk or call 01642 612 204
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vine romance
sculptures and photos with guests invited to private viewings. The hotel overlooks the city of Bordeaux which has literally been scrubbed up in the past few years to go from an unlovely industrial working city to become a very calm, understated and stylish place with striking buildings, riverside walks and boulevards housing chic must-gaze stores with everything from Hermes to gorgeously colourful macarons. We did what you have to do when you go to any city in France, headed to the market, and it’s a good one. Marche des Capucins is gourmet heaven with counter-top cafes at the different producer stalls, from oyster bars to charcuterie. Plan a lunchtime visit and do some stall-hopping. The coast in these parts takes you to miles of white sandy beaches at Arcachon or you can take a visit up the Gironde estuary to the famous Bordeaux wine châteaux Latour, Margaux, Mouton-Rothschild which rise amid the flatlands.
For real wine buffs, one of the most rewarding to visit is the Château PichonLongueville-Comtesse-de-Lalande at Pauillac, an eleven-hectare estate with extensive vineyards. The village of Bouliac itself is pretty with a panoramic stroll from the hotel, to a traditional bistro, Le Café de l’Espérance, the place for a simple menu of grilled meat and fish and buffet of starters and desserts. It’s a truly French atmosphere with charm and atmosphere and live music on certain evenings. Funnily enough, the house wine rates pretty well too.
Marche des Capucins is gourmet heaven with countertop cafes at the producers’ stalls
Terroir >> Above, Capucin market, Bordeaux; top left, St Emilion; below, the cellar at Chateau La Dominique: and, below left, dining at St James
Stuff a Grape >>
Factbox >>
Yes, this was among the challenges at the “Côté Cours” cookery school, based in a contemporary conservatory overlooking the vibrant citrus gardens at St James. The amateur gourmet will be in heaven. This is a taste of the Masterchef kitchen with the chance to try and emulate the skills of the hotel’s Michelin kitchen. Our teacher was a hard task-master. Dicing chives, minutely chopping capers and making our shallots chopped to the level of a professional kitchen. On our menu was a salad of new-season white asparagus with morels and a parmesan cheese and hazelnut crumble. The bit we probably won’t be trying at home, and where the super-kitchen came into play, was in the boiling of eggs in a vapour oven at 68C for 20 minutes (then trying to peel them). The ‘at home’ suggestion being a three-minute poached egg. The dish was delicious and enjoyed with a glass of the hotel’s own crisp white sauvignon. We also made a pasta dish called Aneelli Siciliani with a Mediterranean vegetable sauce garnished with our own peeled and stuffed grapes and drizzled with a parmesan emulsion. Clever stuff, made to look simple by our fast-paced teacher. The cook school has space for up to 12 people in each class, guests can choose to take part in a themed lesson or even visit the local market to buy the produce before getting started. Courses are available for all levels and can be demonstrations or hands-on classes including for children.
Le St James >> 3, place Camille Hostein, 33270 Bouliac - Gironde, France www.saintjames-bouliac.com
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Dinner set menus >> €135, €100, €70 and €55 Kathryn flew from Gatwick to Bordeaux but there are also flights direct from Liverpool and Edinburgh. She travelled with Grand Central Trains from the North East to Kings Cross. Book train tickets up to 12 weeks in advance with no booking fee when booking direct www. grandcentralrail.com
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awaydays in the usa
joining the dots Politics, power, memorials and mighty machines in Washington DC
I slump down into my seat on the Amtrak train that travels between Washington DC, along the east coast of the United States up to my home in New York City. I’m exhausted after spending an incredible weekend in the nation’s capital with my mum and my aunt and uncle who have joined us from Sydney, Australia. We’ve been celebrating mum’s birthday with a trip to New York but I really wanted them to experience the beauty of Washington DC. As we leave the station, the sun is setting on this most beautiful of cities. When we think of the US, we tend to think about visiting New York, LA, San Francisco and of course Disney World. Outside of being the nation’s capital and inextricably linked to the US political system, Washington DC is a whole lot more. I’m going to stick my neck out and say that Washington DC is the most beautiful city in the US. I arrived in the US April 2006. I’d just been selected to fly the F-22 Raptor for the US Air Force and here I was, being met at the airport by a gentleman from the British Embassy who handed me an envelope containing a general itinerary for events at the Embassy over the next few days. After that, I was on my own and I was to report to Langley Air Force Base further south, in Virginia. Nine years later I find myself back in the city that became my home for three years. Washington is quite obviously a city based around politics. It is the political capital not just of a nation, but also of the free world.
Kramer Books is a fascinating little bookstore with a small restaurant and bar attached that’s open all night MAY/JUN15
Everywhere you turn there are politicians, lobbyists, protestors and students. It is home to a number of world-class universities including the most famous of all in DC, Georgetown. Politics are debated at every level of society, from taxi drivers, to students, to the man in the street selling hot dogs. Everyone in Washington has an opinion and more often than not, it is an informed opinion. Washington and surrounding areas are also a hotspot for the military and there is no greater symbol of that overwhelming military force than that of the Pentagon, flanked beautifully by the three soaring spears that curve upwards and make up the Air Force Memorial. It is a poignant reminder of what brought me to this great country. This particular weekend however, I was playing tour guide to the family. Our hotel was located just north of Dupont Circle, a place central to Washington which I’d recommend as a convenient base. Having just arrived on the early train from New York, we were starving so we dropped in to Kramer Books for breakfast, a fascinating little bookstore that has a small restaurant and bar attached. It is open all night and often, I’d drop in for post-drinking breakfast sustenance on my way home to bed in the early hours of the morning. We sat at the bar and ordered the fresh crab omelet. It’s a house specialty and I highly recommend it! After breakfast we began our walking tour of the city. First stop was back to my old university in Georgetown. The university sits atop a hill overlooking the city and the Potomac River, which winds gently along the outskirts of the city. Georgetown is famous for being a leading institution in many fields, particularly foreign policy studies. It
is gothic in design and beautiful in every sense. Georgetown itself, is a neighborhood of Washington DC and it is stunning. It evolved out of an 18th-century port town. Today it’s perfect for exploring on foot, with remarkable row houses, and quaint shops and boutiques. If you visit, shop your way down M Street and head north on Wisconsin Avenue to discover locally-owned boutiques. Lesser-known are the steep steps that lead up to Georgetown University. They featured in that iconic scene in the movie, The Exorcist as the priest stood at the foot of them under the glow of the nearby street lamp. If you’re feeling brave, visit them late at night and then drop into The Tombs which is a famous, old university bar in the basement of a nearby building. On our way out of Georgetown, we walked along the waterfront and took in the many new restaurants and bars that sit overlooking an informal harbour. Many people spend their afternoons basking in the sun, watching people come and go in their boats whilst enjoying a cocktail and a bite to eat. From there head along the river and past the Kennedy Center which is Washington DC’s answer to the Lincoln Center in NYC and home to some extraordinary events, from ballet, to opera, and everything else in between. It’s worth visiting to see the building alone. If you follow the path along the river eventually you get to the back of the Lincoln Memorial. Walking around to the front of it, we climbed the steps to the statue of Abraham Lincoln, turned around, sat down and stared at what is one of the most iconic views in America. The view looks straight along the famous Mall and takes in many of the famous memorials along the way. You should visit Vietnam Memorial, the Second World War memorial and
the most iconic of structures, the Washington Monument. From there you can look right along the next part of the mall all the way up to Capitol Hill which houses both the US senate and congress. After a day of walking and an early start we were beat so we took a taxi ride up to the Hill (a local term for Capitol Hill, the political neighborhood surrounding that iconic building). We dined at Casa Meze, an excellent little Greek, Turkish and Lebanese restaurant serving tapas dishes and cocktails. I highly recommend the octopus and lamb drunk with a whisky and ginger ale cocktail. On Sunday we had two aims, the first was to visit Arlington National Cemetery in the morning and the second was to visit the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum in the afternoon. If you do one thing when you visit Washington DC, visit the national cemetery. It has to be one of the most beautiful, moving and thought-provoking things you will ever see or do in your life. Its vast and beautiful landscapes play host to the thousands of men and women who have given their lives to defend the values not just of the United States, but of the rest of the free world. In the unstable world we live in, it’s a timely reminder that the freedom you and I take for granted, is not free at all. The price we have paid for it is an incredibly high one and it has been paid in full, by the sacrifices that those men and women have given in the name of liberty, democracy and freedom. We should never forget this, whichever country we are from. You must pay a visit to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, again a sobering reminder of the cost of war. Some light relief on our final stop for the day at the Air and Space Museum. It’s an incredible attraction and like many museums flanking Washington Mall, it is completely free of charge. An excellent option for keeping the kids happy and indeed, my Australian uncle, Hans. The museum pays homage to our era of manned flight, starting out with the Wright Brothers and moves through many notable milestones in mankind’s exploration of flight and on into outer space. See landing craft from the Apollo missions, space suits used by astronauts, walk around the cockpit of a 747, see a Spitfire, a P-51 Mustang and everything else in between. It serves to remind us of man’s insatiable appetite for exploration and celebrates many of our incredible achievements to date. As our Amtrak train zips us on our way to New York, I asked my mum, my aunt and uncle what they thought of Washington DC. Every one of them answered the same. They loved it, even preferring it to New York. As for me, I’m not sure I prefer it to New York in every sense, but if you visit it at this time of year, when the famous cherry blossom trees are in full bloom, you’ll be blown away by what this city has to offer. Follow me on Twitter: @dan_gusrob Follow me on Instagram: danrobinson2009
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Xxxxxxxx she’s a japanese girl
WelCoME! A taste of the East for Nina
I’ve been on quite an adventure since I last checked in. I’ve been all the way to Japan (and back again)! It was a very long journey but it was worth every one of the 15 hours I spent on the aeroplane watching films, reading Jacqueline Wilson books and nibbling treats. We stayed for ten nights in central Tokyo and it was the best holiday I’ve ever had, apart from sleepovers at my nanny and grandad’s house of course. I thought I’d share my holiday diary with you and show you some of my favourite photos.
with Nina Robinson
Little Luxe loves Tokyo! x
Postcard from Tokyo! >> April 9
>> April 7 Maid cafes, manga and the metro system Day one of our adventure and we decided to get to grips with the amazing Tokyo Metro system. Dad showed me the map in a guide book and it looked like a big multi-coloured ball of string to me. I got my own Pasmo travel card which I kept all holiday in my own purse and just needed to swipe at the gates of each station to enter the vast and glamorous underground world of the Metro! Before I knew it we’d been swallowed up by the busy crowds and were weaving our way through the city, jumping from one train to another, people watching and ordering sushi, dumplings and pizza (for me). I loved it! We headed to Tokyo’s Electric Town, Akihabara, which is famous for its anime and manga shops. When I looked up at the huge, cartoon signs and enormous buildings it was exactly as I imagined Tokyo would look! Mum wanted to try one of the maid cafes popular in this area and I was especially pleased as it ended up being the perfect hangout for a little luxe! The waitresses dress in cute frilly costumes and all the food is served in the shape of cute animals. The waitresses sing songs to you and they invited us to go on stage and dressed us all up as bunnies for a photo shoot – even dad!
Pink blossom. Everywhere! Springtime means sakura (cherry blossom) in Japan and the whole country celebrates the opening of the pretty pink petals in the trees. Viewing and enjoying the blossom during the festival of Hanami is such a big deal that every year there is an official cherry blossom forecast so everyone can plan their picnic parties under the trees. We got to Japan just in time to catch the end of the viewing season in Tokyo and it was lovely to see everyone so happy about seeing the soft pink flowers. We headed for the Imperial Palace Gardens to see the trees in their splendour but everywhere you turned there were beautiful blankets of petals.
>> April 11 Saying hello to my favourite kitty Did you know Hello Kitty was actually born in the suburbs of London? Her height is described as five apples and her weight as three apples. The popular white bobtail cat might have been born in Britain according to her Japanese creators Sanrio, but there is no doubting her real roots. Hello Kitty is a phenomenon in Japan! She is just as popular with adults as children and her cute face can be spotted on everything from stationery to stilettos. Sanrio Puroland in Tokyo is an indoor theme park dedicated to my favourite cat, her twin sister Mimmy and all of their furry friends. It’s a magnet for Hello Kitty fans from around the world and I was one of the youngest there the day we visited! Step inside the brightly coloured, magical world and you’re not only greeted with your favourite characters in the most gorgeous settings but also the smell of Hello Kitty’s cooking – fresh cinnabons, mmmmmmmm!
>> April 16 >> April 13 Bullet trains and mountains Whoooooooooooosh. That was the bullet train going past. By the time you’ve read the word the train has vanished. All 30 carriages! Dad loves trains as much as I love Hello Kitty so he couldn’t go to Japan and not try a bullet train. While we stood on the platform waiting for ours to arrive, another one went through the station without stopping and it must have been doing its full speed of 320 km per hour. You could feel the rumbling before it arrived and then there was a blur of colour as it zipped through, and then it was gone! It felt more like an aeroplane than a train once we were inside ours. All the seats face the same direction and are so comfortable you could sleep for 15 hours. We visited a little town at the base of Mount Fuji and were lucky enough to see the magical mountain for a while when the clouds parted and the sun lit it up.
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Disneyland but not as we know it … Imagine my delight to find out Tokyo has not one but two Disney parks! There’s Disneyland Tokyo, which was the first Disney theme park to be opened outside of America and this one is based on the original Californian dream. Then, right next door, there’s the newer DisneySea, the only one of its kind in the world. This one is made up of seven themed ports of call including Mystery Island, Mermaid Lagoon and Arabian Coast. In DisneySea there were jaw-dropping surprises around every corner. As a mermaid-in-themaking, the undersea world of Ariel was among my favourite stop-offs.
MAY/JUN15
LUXE LOVES Snuggledown time Shopping for stylish nursery stuff? Who might be? Tuftyheads and tired mums can lie back on cute jumping and running hare cushions from the lovely Harriet Hare nursery range. ÂŁ32 each. www.harriethare.com
MAY/JUN15
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style pup
Fashion’s dog days Who knew a hound could teach us anything about style outside of the dog-collar? Menswear Dog might look like a pooch in human clothing but as a devotee of dressing up he does indeed offer up some sound fashion and style advice. The New Classics is a style guide written by the savvy owners of Bodhi, a four-year-old Shiba Inu.
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They are David Fung and Yena Kim, who write a hugely popular style blog Menswear Dog. It started out as a parody but is now big sticks in the New York fashion world. And yes, it’s basically about them dressing up their pet in posh gear. In the book this groomed hound sets the style standards for key fashion moments so you know what’s what for key occasions from weekend getaways to black tie events, summer weddings to globetrotter essentials. Weirdly, the fashion bit is actually quite
concise and sensible when it comes to making a wardrobe work for a hapless two-legged model. On the right, check out Menswear Dog’s take on mariner must-buys for those of you setting sail this summer.... Extracted from Menswear Dog Presents: The New Classics by David Fung and Yena Kim (Artisan, £11.99). Copyright © 2015. Photographs by David Fung and Yena Kim
MAY/JUN15
SHARE STYLE
.the 2 www top, £4 lc nautica y.com ompan
Seaworthy must-haves
sic >> Clas Breton Eyewear >> Ray-Ban, £143 www.sunglasses-shop.co.uk
The Cut Throat Club! with Paul Cowen in the barber’s chair…
King of Hair - the Resurgence of the Barber
ge chino shorts £69, Coloured shorts >> Boss Oran fraser.co.uk House of Fraser www.houseof
Barber is Latin for ‘beard’ and barbers may even date back earlier than the Latin language itself. It’s one of the oldest professions hailing from early tribes BC. The Greeks introduced barbers to the Romans and it was considered a coming of age ceremony with young boys turning into men with their first shave. In the middle ages barbers were used as surgeons and dentists as well as for bloodletting. They were taken to war to perform surgery in the field and became highly paid members of society. The decline in barbershops came after two world wars and the Depression which saw a lot of mothers taking on the role to save money. The introduction of the Gillette razor introduced a decline in shop shaves and when ‘Beatlemania’ took a hold the longer male hairstyle became a popular fashion which obviously resulted in fewer visits to the barber. Barbers are back with the male grooming industry booming due to men taking more time for personal grooming. Men are now taking time out of their busy schedules to catch up at the barbershop, share the banter and feel comfortable in a male environment much like that of the earlier 20th century.
Windcheater >> Berghaus Men’s Vapour Storm jacket, £159.99 www.getthelabel.com
The Man corner is part of REEF SALON, Durham city. we are moving soon to our new home at RAMSIDE HALL HOTEL, please come and see us.
Boat shoe >> Dune, £69 www.dunelondon.com
MAY/JUN15
Paul runs The Man Corner at Reef Salons, Bannatyne Health Club, Belmont, Durham 0191 386 3055.
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LUXE LIFE
Susan Harmsworth Susan Harmsworth is the founder of skin care brand ESPA which will be used at the new Ramside Hall Spa when it opens this summer. Susan, who is 70, started out in fashion and beauty, writing for Vogue in London and New York. She opened her first salon business in Toronto before moving to France to run a thalassotherapy resort and then a health farm. From the start, she had therapists and medical professionals working side by side, a radical approach at the time but the norm now. Until the early 80s, she says; “the continual stress of modern life was something barely acknowledged. To me it was obvious that just treating the body wasn’t enough.” From there she moved into the creation of her own products, the ESPA brand. Luxe people >> I spend so much of my time travelling that my luxe people are my closest friends and family. My friends are an eclectic mix of designers, chefs and musicians
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– they’re all quite different, and tend to be a mixture of nationalities as I’ve lived all over the world.
Best book > The Road Less Travelled by M.Scott Peck. Best sounds > Silence.
Luxe places >> For a weekend > Limewood, Metropole Monte Carlo, Peninsula Paris, Gleneagles. A long holiday > Grenadines, Italy, the South of France.
Luxe shop >> Best shopping city > London. Favourite shop > Liberty. Luxe retail treat > Steven Webster jewellery. Best buy > Amanda Wakeley kaftans.
Luxe relax >> Best food > Light and clean food, so a lot of seafood and delicious veg. Best wine > Laurent Perrier Rose Champagne, Malbec red, Montrachet white. Favourite restaurant > Cecconi’s, Mayfair. Perfect weekend > At home. Downtime means > A small island in the sun like the Maldives or the Grenadines, chilling with close friends or family, with a glass of wine or pink champagne. Best telly > I don’t really do telly, I prefer to catch up on films when I get the chance (which isn’t often!). Best theatre > Anything by the English National Ballet.
Luxe party >> A memorable night out > A private gala dinner in the desert in Marrakech, with amazing food and incredible entertainment. Perfect party > My recent 70th birthday where we took over Massimo’s in Corinthia – it was a ‘Great Gatsby’ theme and very glamorous! Best dress > Either my Oscar de la Renta or Amanda Wakeley dresses. Dinner date > On the beach, with the man in my life. Your luxe thing in life >> My Aston Martin.
MAY/JUN15
on the ball
golf:kit
GOLF coach with John Harrison
Has the Masters motivated you to get a new kit? Make a play for golf gear and inspiring jaunts
PLAY & STAY >> Plenty of golfers share the passions of tee-time and whisky, making the ‘Divots & Drams’ package a very cheery proposition. It’s on offer at the five-star Fairmont St Andrews, the luxury resort in Scotland’s home of golf. What you get is a round of golf on either of the resort’s two famed championship courses, the Torrance and the Kittocks, and a tour of the nearby Kingsbarns Distillery, one of Scotland’s newest, with a visit to its exhibition and a tasting. The deal, from £199 per person also includes overnight B&B accommodation and a three-course dinner - including a dram of the Wemyss whisky, one of the family-owned malts available at the distillery in the resort’s newly-refurbished clubhouse restaurant, with stunning views of the bay. The resort has welcomed the likes of Kofi Anan, the former SecretaryGeneral of the United Nations, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, who frequented the hotel bar during their courtship at St Andrews University, and a multitude of celebrities and sports stars. www.standrewsbay.com | www.fairmont.com/standrews
Gourmet for golfers >> Still on the subject of golf for the gourmet, one for the diary and a bit of holiday planning has to be Pebble Beach Food & Wine in California. It brings together amazing chefs and Californian wineries in this stunning oceanside landscape with tastings, demos and some gasp-worthy golfing. A ‘died and gone to heaven’ experience for the golfer who loves gourmet. It will be happening early 2016. www.pebblebeach.com
Spring steps>> Watching the style-savvy players at The Masters has probably made you itch to give your golf gear a makeover. Here’s what Hugo Boss has in store. www.cruisefashion.com
>>Boss Green Victoire LA Trainers, £159
MAY/JUN15
>>Boss Green Zip Through Logo Jacket, £159
>>Boss Green Gioly Golf Bag, £430 >>Boss Green Geski Golf Bag, £300
>>Boss Black Ballano Polo Shirt, £105
>>Boss Green Paule 1 Polo Shirt, £99
>>Boss Green Light Air Trainers, £129
In the last article we talked about wedge play and distance control and I hope this helped you play better and improve your scoring. This month let’s talk about putting, without doubt the single most important part of the game. On my first season on the European Seniors Tour my putting stats were averaging out at 30.2 putts per round and I had a pretty successful season. My fourth and worst year on tour my average was up to 32.4 putts per round, which if you think over a tournament could equate to nearly nine shots. This single statistic tells you how important putting is to your game. First you have to find a putter that suits you. We all get measured for drivers and irons, but still most people don’t get fitted correctly for putters. There are two types of putter, face balanced and heel toe weighted. Face balanced suits people who have their eye line directly over the ball and their spine angle tilted forward. This set-up keeps the putter path very straight back and through, therefore the face balance stops the blade rotating in the stroke. These putters are normally mallet in shape and shorter in length as you are tilted over the ball. The extreme example of this can be seen with Michelle Wie who putts at a virtually 90-degree angle. Heel toe weighted putters generally suit people who stand more upright with the eye line slightly back of the ball, thus causing the putter to have a more inside path. The heel toe putter allows the clubface to open and close square to this path. A good example of this type of putter and putting is Tiger Woods. Taking putting out on the course I have slightly different strategies for different putts. Longer putts: The pace is massively important on longer putts and we all think we should hole those 15-20 footers, but the stats show that even the top players hole relatively few of them. The main aim is to leave the ball close to the hole so we don’t three putt. Read the putt carefully looking at it from different angles, really taking into account factors like the slope, break and wind direction. Remember the ball will always break more during the end of the putt as it is slowing down so the break around the hole is the most important. When you do your practice strokes really feel the length and pace of your stroke. A practice stroke is not obligatory; it is a rehearsal of what you are going to do over the ball so don’t take too long between your practise stroke and the stroke itself as the feel you create will disappear. Short putts- Are very much about the lining up process, feel isn’t as great an issue but alignment is a massive part of holing out well. So after your practice stroke when you actually put the putter behind the ball have a couple of good looks (not glances) at the hole to make sure your lasared in! During the stroke most golfers move on short putts so really keep your head and upper body still through impact. Some players listen for the ball dropping, Nick Faldo and Gary Player are good examples, whilst others like the new Masters champion Jordan Smith putt looking at the hole. Whichever way you do it, if you keep your head still and align properly you will hole more putts! Happy golfing!
John Harrison, European Senior Tour player and Matfen Hall Head Professional, Matfen Hall Hotel Golf and Spa www.matfenhall.com tel: 01661 886400
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Twitter Bird
drivetime
AT THE WHEEL Motors man Bob Arora plays with some serious cars
M uscle
A growly boy of a car, the muscular Infiniti QX70 is a homegrown hero
If you were in America or Dubai you’d be hard pressed not to see an Infiniti car or SUV at every turn or traffic light. The brand is the luxury version of Nissan and with Toyota and Honda having their own premium brands it was a no brainer for Nissan to do the same. It was a good way of trying to steal sales away from the premium German competitors. The cars are stylish compared to their cheaper siblings and jam-packed with equipment but the real trump card is the car’s reliability. In the all-important JD Powers survey, the Japanese brands beat their competitors hands down. I was amazed to read Infiniti was launched back in 1989 but they were only introduced in the UK in 2009. With less than a dozen showrooms up and down the country, it’s easy to say these cars are going to be rare sights indeed. This might change as Infiniti are about to launch the new QX30 and having seen a few artist’s images, I’d wager this car is going to be a sales success. The best bit? It’s going to be built in Sunderland, so hopefully this means more jobs for the region.
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The car I have driven is the QX70; it’s a sporty looking SUV which has a bit of a look of an X6 about it. The car really has brash and muscular styling, the bold chrome grille and low roofline help give it a very sporty look indeed. The QX70 is available in three trim levels; the base model is the GT and the range is topping premium. The car is priced from £42,000 - £54,000 and available with three engine choices. The best seller is the 3l V6 diesel engine which should return 33mpg. When I first started up the diesel from cold it sounded quite noisy and gruff but it becomes civilised once it’s warm. For any real petrolheads there are also two petrol engines. The 3.7l V6 engine has been taken from the 370Z and a 5l V8 engine is also
- bound
available. Either of these cars is going to be a real gas guzzler and most owners won’t get over 20mpg. Prepare for a first year’s road tax at an eye-watering £1000 for the first year. All cars are fitted with a 7-speed automatic gearbox and the gear shift paddles are behind the wheel for anyone wanting a more sporty drive. The car’s stiff suspension allows cornering at speed with very little body roll at all and it feels much more car-like to drive. The rear windows are very small and the roofline is also low which impacts on rear headroom, plus the legroom is also really quite tight in the rear. The sporty styling also impacts on the boot space; with the seats up there is 410 litres of space but when you fold the seats this increases to a more useable 1305 litres of space. The boot opens automatically but it is slow to open and close. The only off-road styling cues are the roof rails, the wide wheel arches and great big 21” alloy wheels. Despite being a four wheel drive car I
My range-topping model was fully loaded with equipment from privacy glass to sunroof and Bose speakers but the best bit was the self repairing paint, I was tempted to give it a try to see if it worked but I resisted
wouldn’t do any serious off-roading. The lack of low range gearing and shortage of any adaptive off-road modes mean this car is more of a soft roader. Considering the car I drove had big wheels and it was quite fidgety over rough roads, yet on smooth roads it was a dream to drive. The car has a full 5* NCAP rating thanks to the airbags dotted all over the car, the lane assist and intelligent brake assist. The lane assist bleeps if you stray across the white lines and the brake assist applies the brakes if it senses a potential crash. In my opinion the buttons and switchgear look a bit cheap compared to the VW Toureg or the BMW X6 but the switchgear has mostly come direct from Nissan. The Sat Nav is standard on the Premium S and the graphics were a bit outdated but the speed camera alert was very handy indeed. I really liked the Bentley-style diamond quilted stitched leather, but the plastic around the dash looks very cheap indeed. My range topping model was fully loaded with equipment from privacy glass to the sunroof and intelligent cruise control and Bose speakers but the best bit was the self repairing paint, I was tempted to give it a try to see if it worked but I resisted. If you’re looking for something different then the QX70 definitely fits the bill; I would get down to our local Infiniti garage at the Silverlink, before everyone finds out and they become as common as Audis. Car courtesy of Infiniti Newcastle.
MAY/JUN15
INFINITI CENTRE NEWCASTLE Brand New Infiniti QX70 3.0d GT 5dr Automatic
• Rain & light Sensors • Electric front & rear windows with privacy glass • Voice control system • Bluetooth telephone connectivity • Front & rear parking sensors • Speed sensitive power steering • Rear view camera • Cruise control • Centre multi info display • Body colour, electric adjustable/heated/folding & auto dimming door mirrors • Bluetooth audio streaming • USB connection & auxiliary input socket • Electric glass sunroof • Power tailgate Bi-Xenon headlights with adaptive front light system, washers & follow me home headlights • Dual zone electronic climate control • Leather upholstery, steering wheel & gearshift • Aluminium pedals & driver’s footrest • Steering wheel gearshift paddles • Sequential interior light system • Multimedia pack • Tyre pressure monitoring system • Driver’s adjustable lumbar support • Memory function for driver’s seat, steering wheel & exterior mirrors • Heated & ventilated front seats • 20” 5 spoke alloy wheels
Representative Example: Infiniti QX70 3.0d GT 5dr Automatic 36 x Monthly payments .............. £499 Total amount payable ........£47,430.50 On the road cash price............£42,375 Rate of Interest (Fixed) ..............7.46% Manufacturer Contribution ...... £8,365 Customer deposit ...............£4,999.28 APR Representative ...................7.46% Balance to finance .............£29,005.72 Contract mileage per annum...... 8,000 Optional final payment...... £16,102.50 Excess mileage charge per mile ..0.12p
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• Carbon Black with Charcoal Upholstery • Full Leather Electric Seats • Satellite Navigation • Rear Spoiler & 18” Alloy Wheels • Dual Climate & Cruise Control • In Very Good Conditions Throughout and with Low Miles
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Infiniti Centre Newcastle Middle Engine Lane, Silverlink Business Park, Newcastle, Tyne and Wear NE28 9NZ Phone: 0191 295 8686 www.infinitinewcastle.com
£14,495
10/60 Mercedes-Benz ML300 CDi Sport 5dr
• Obsidian Black with Graphite Interior • Full Mercedes-Benz Command with Satellite Navigation & Bluetooth • Reverse Camera & Parking Sensors • 20” Alloys - Side Running Boards • Exterior Off Road Appearance Pack & Privacy Glass • 1/2 Leather 1/2 Alcantara Electric Sports Seats
NOW ONLY
£19,595
INSPIRED PERFORMANCE
Official fuel economy figures for the Infiniti FX range in mpg (l/100 km): urban 25.2 to 15.0 (11.2 to 18.9), extra urban 36.2 to 28.8 (7.8 to 9.8), combined 31.4 to 21.6 (9.0 to 13.1). CO2 emission: 307 to 238 g/km. Visit your local dealer for full details. Infiniti Europe, Zone d’Activités La Pièce 12, 1180 Rolle, Switzerland. Infiniti Centre Newcastle is a subsidiary of Bristol Street Fourth Investments who is a credit broker authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority. Finance subject to status. Models shown for illustration purposes only. Further charges may be payable if vehicle is returned. Indemnities may be required. Subject to status. Available to over 18s in the UK only. Terms and conditions apply. Retail sales only. Subject to availability. Offers may be varied or withdrawn at any time. Certain vehicles excluded. We can introduce you to a limited number of lenders to assist with your purchase, who may pay us for introducing you to them. Based on 8,000 miles per annum.
luxe player
Voyage of Discovery Land Rover’s Discovery Sport is full of surprises...and seven USB ports
It seems hard to believe Ford sold Land Rover to the Tata group over seven years ago. Tata have managed to really turn the company round from losing money to being one of the most desirable brands at the moment. They literally had waiting lists for the Evoque, Range Rover Sport and the Range Rover. The designers and engineers have made the cars not only very good to look at but they are so much better to drive than previous models. The Freelander and Discovery had just been tweaked and no major design work had been done to either car until now. This brings me neatly on to the Discovery Sport which has been launched very recently; it is the upmarket replacement for the Freelander. This car is a very luxurious SUV that has the BMW X3 and Audi Q5 firmly in its sights. It is much more stylish than the outgoing car and it really has the Evoque’s rakish profile. The Discovery Sport does not use the same quality materials as the Evoque which let’s not forget is a Range Rover. The dash looks great but a Range Rover driver would know where the cutbacks have been made in materials and finish. The gear selector rises from the centre console and the dashboard and switches have all been taken from the Evoque. They have also fitted an electric handbrake which frees up a fair amount of space. The Discovery Sport has the option of either five or seven seats;
with the seats up the car has 981 litres of boot space, drop them and the car has a very van like 1698 litres of space. The car has absolutely acres of storage space and cup holders all over. They have even seven USB sockets throughout the cabin. A nine-speed gearbox is available and a six-speed manual is standard. After driving both cars I would recommend paying the extra £1800 for the automatic box as it really transforms the car. The car’s Achilles heel is the old 2.2lt diesel engine is not only slow but it’s really noisy as well. When you start the car up the engine has an agricultural tone although once warm it does get quieter. It gets to 60mph in less than nine seconds; it also gets from 30-70 miles per hour in nine seconds, with the cars top speed being 117mph. Land Rover are bringing out a two-wheel drive version which will be better on economy and it will cost under £30,000 but it will also be much cheaper for company car drivers. A 2.0lt diesel engine will also be launched next year, this promises to be much more economical but it will be much more refined than the current 2.2lt diesel engine. The car is priced from £30,000 and the range topping car is £42,995. The car is available in three trims, starting with the SE Manual, SE Tech and the range-topping HSE. The SE features part leather trim, climate and cruise control, heated front seats, Bluetooth, rear sensors, 8” colour touch screen and DAB radio. The SE Tech also gets Sat Nav, auto lights and wipers,
This car is a very luxurious SUV that has the BMW X3 and Audi Q5 firmly in its sights. It is much more stylish than the outgoing car and really has the Evoque’s rakish profile
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front parking sensors and a power tailgate. The HSE also gets full leather interior, panoramic sunroof, Xenon and running lights, keyless entry, heated rear seats and rear view camera. The Discovery Sport is 80mm longer than the Evoque. You may see the Discovery Sport towing quite a lot of caravans as it can tow 2200-2500kgs. So expect to see quite a few around. Like Range Rovers the Discovery is fitted with a Terrain Response control, but it really needs air suspense on rather than the coil springs fitted to the car. The car also features permanent four wheel drive and it’s not afraid to wade in water up to 600mm or flex its muscles off-road. The car’s ride is nowhere near as good as the Evoque’s but the Discovery Sport feels very agile
on twisty country roads. The steering is very sharp and direct and it really feels like a car to drive despite its size. I have seen the car in a few colours but my favourite is a grey colour with the Black Edition pack. This pack costs £1500 but it really transforms the car with black alloy wheels, black grille and exterior trim. I was amazed to find out the original Discovery was launched over 25 years ago to fit in the range between the Defender and the Range Rover. This car is a really stylish change to the Freelander; you can see styling cues from the Evoque. I am sure this car will sell like hot cakes but it’s a shame they didn’t put the new engine in straight away. Car courtesy of Land Rover UK.
MAY/JUN15
I AM THE REVOLUTION.
BMW i
The Ultimate Driving Machine
THE BMW i8.
For more information or to request a BMW i test drive*, please call us on 0191 2617366 or visit www.lloydnewcastlebmw.co.uk
Lloyd Newcastle
Fenham Barracks, Newcastle Upon Tyne Tyne & Wear NE2 4LE Official fuel economy figures for the BMW i8: Weighted combined cycle: mpg 134.5 (2.1 l/100 km), CO2 emissions 49g/km, power output (engine) 170/231 kW/hp, power output (electric motor) 96/131 kW/hp, total average energy consumption per 62 miles/100 km (weighted combined cycle) 11.5 kWh, customer-orientated total range up to 373 miles. Maximum electric range value 23 miles, common average electric range value (e-Drive only) up to 23 miles. Figures may vary depending on different factors, including but not limited to individual driving style, climatic conditions, route characteristics and preconditioning. The BMW i8 is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle that requires mains electricity for charging. *Test drive subject to applicant status and availability.
LUXE LAPS
Malcolm Wardman Malcolm Wardman is managing director of Creative Cutting Services Ltd, a national supplier of steel products for engineering and construction industries. The company were previously involved in the cutting of the Angel of the North. Malcolm, from Stokesley, is married to Julia and has two children, Callum and Ferne. In his spare time he travels up and down the country in his Sporthome as Callum competes in national motocross competitions. As well as cars he loves walking his three dogs, Izzy, Jacob and Daisy.
Childhood car crush >> My dream car as a young teenager was a Mercedes Benz 350SL convertible. They were always shown in the television shows as the “cool car” and I wanted one. The dream was to drive across America with the roof down, into the sunset! However at 17, the reality was a ten-year-old Austin Allegro in maroon complete with vinyl roof and square steering wheel. The dream would have to wait for now. What’s in the garage now >> A volcano orange McLaren MP4-12C 616hp A fully loaded silver Ford Ranger pickup A Mini Cooper A Sporthome used for weekend motocross events with my son Callum. The McLaren came about after a casual stop at a dealer in Harrogate. At the back of the showroom behind the Ferraris and Lamborghinis was this bright metallic orange supercar. It was the colour that caught my interest. I took it on a test drive and was blown away by the performance, 0-60 in 3 seconds, 0-100 in 6 seconds and even better, 124-0 in 5
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seconds! It’s very controllable and comfortable so unlike any supercar I’ve ever driven before. When I got back from the test drive I bought it there and then, it had impressed me that much. The Ranger is my daily drive and it’s the total opposite to the McLaren, but so easy to drive. It’s just a good goanywhere vehicle. If you could own any car >> It would probably have to be a McLaren P1 closely followed by a Porsche 918. Captain Slow or Jeremy >> I would have to say driving the Ford Ranger and the Sporthome make me Captain Slow, but it’s way too easy to turn into Jeremy when I get in the McLaren. Tracks of your tyres >> My music taste is extremely varied. To me, it’s more about the tune rather than the artist! I’ve just recently discovered Spotify and all of the ready-made playlists; “Kitchen
Swagger” is the current top choice followed by “Hipster House Party”. Dream road trip >> I’ve always wanted to do an American RV trip from New York to Miami, or the Route 66 trip across America in a convertible - one day it will happen. Who with >> It would definitely be with my family, so I could share with them the sights and experiences along the way. Memorable car moments >> There have been a few; getting my first car and the freedom it gave me was a fond memory, even though it was always breaking down. Getting my first hot hatch, a Golf GTi. And my most recent memorable moment was taking delivery of the McLaren and having to remind myself “it’s mine” as I drive along. I am still amazed how many people want to take pictures of it wherever I go. What’s in the glove box >> There is no glove box in the McLaren and not much storage at all really, which I suppose is a good thing, at least you can’t clutter it up with rubbish. The Ranger is kept bare too, but the Sporthome has everything in it – yes, including the kitchen sink! How clean is your car >> I clean them myself using good quality products. I can always rely on Christmas and birthdays as I usually get stocked up with bits and bobs as presents. Scary moments >> Going to Helmsley from Stokesley as a passenger in a Lotus Elise that had a supercharged Honda engine in it. The speeds that thing could go round the corners was unbelievable. I don’t think I have ever got to Helmsley as fast as I did that day. Even a guy on a superbike said he couldn’t get past it. All I’m saying is I’m glad the pub was open when we got there.
MAY/JUN15
LUXE LOVES A step up Hang a vintage frock in some style, make space for your mags or give your towels pride in their place. Freestanding bamboo ladder makes storage a bit stylish, ÂŁ80 www.nordichouse.co.uk
MAY/JUN15
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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!
Chez Mal launch, Malmaison, Newcastle
Ladies’ Lunch, The Cleveland Tontine Below > Gemma Hodgson, Diane Thompson, Marie Balls
Below > Paula Strike, Beryl Thompson, Barbara Dyson
Below > Caroline Wheatley, Adele Ward
Above > George Bond, Julian Brinton, Beverley Spyer-Holmes Below > Judy Mathison, Julie Ellis, Anna Milne
Above > James Bowers, Scarlett Moffatt Below > Tracey Dykes, Pauline Carr Above > Agnes Goodall, Ann Ward, Amber Tuer, Lisa McPherson Above > Emma Tomkins, Rupert Kingston
Above > Laura Emmerson, Katie Haddock
Above > Lynn Gaunt, Noree Rosenberg Above > Kris Baker-Rain, Joanne Moore, Gordon Moore Above > Louise Lacy, Diana Tayeb
Cinderella Ball, Wynyard Hall Below > Danny Forth, Anna Swabey
Above > Hannah Orrell, Laura Hale
Below > Amy Fletcher, Kate Fletcher, Leigh Oswald, Tom Blackburn
Above > Abigail Lawson, Fairy Godmother Emma Gerry Above > Demi Ditchburn, Amy Caffrey
RICHARD SINTON for now, forever 92
1 year’s free insurance*
Upper Level Eldon Garden Newcastle Upon Tyne
*Ts&Cs apply
MAY/JUN15
social life
Market Cross Jewellers Mayor’s Award Ceremony, Town Hall, Middlesbrough
Moorbennhall Charity Ball, Ramside Hall, Durham
Below > Dawn Welsh, Roy Welsh, Fiona Turner
Above > Market Cross Jewellers staff
Above > Andrew Bennett, Denise Welch, Lincoln Townley, Calvin Moore
Above > Melanie Green, Claire Souter, Rachael Connor Below > Emily Conlin, Beth Taylor
Above > Stephen Drury, Chris Drury, Michele Thompson, Hilary Flett
Above > Matthew McDougall, Simon Williams, Johnathan Hoole, Ryan Callaghan
Below > Mayor of Middlesbrough Ray Mallon, Victoria Gibson, Ruby Davies, Olivia Davies, Dr Adrian Davies
Above > Alison Oliver, Cheryl Johnson, Caroline Ord, Helen Richardson Below > Gemma Potts, Linda Potts, Harriet Gallagher, Trish Hart-Sayers
Above > Eric Flett, Hilary Flett
Above > Claire Emmerson, Suzanne Stephenson
Below > Anne Preston, Jayne Preston
Above > Theo McGhee, Esme McGhee, Nicola Foy, Seth McGhee, Ruby McGhee, Archie McGhee
Above > Emma Fielding, Holly Turnbull
Hurworth Hunt Point to Point, Hutton Rudby, North Yorkshire Below > Ian Mountain, Chloe Bell, Kate Lowcock, Emily Dennis
Below > Daniel Sanderson, Gary Sawyer, Kay Sanderson, Andrew Turner
Above > Julia Dixon, Jacqueline Shappell, Steph Fox, Melba Reed, Colin Turner
Above > Philippa Atkinson, Harriet Speight, Jen Riddle, Helena Youmans
Above > Abi Sadler, Nicky Sadler
RICHARD SINTON for now, forever MAY/JUN15
20% off wedding rings*
Upper Level Eldon Garden Newcastle Upon Tyne
*after the purchase of any engagement ring
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social life
Redhouse School Ball, Wynyard Hall Below > Sam Webb, Kate Green, Steve Tapp, Rosalind Green, Simon Martin, Martin Green
Below > Louise Wilson, Sue Quasim
Above > Lisa Dolan, Ellie Johnson, Lindsay Cairns, Lucinda Williams
Above > Uzma Olbrich, Madeleine Costigan, Fran Carter
Above > Alex Taylor
County Durham Community Foundation 20th Anniversary Gala Dinner, Durham Castle
Lobster Ball, Hardwick Hall, Sedgefield Below > Angela Donkin, Keith Donkin
Below > Seth Pearson, Kate Culverhouse Val MacConachie, Alasdair MacConachie
Above > Andrea Gilmore, Paul Gilmore
Above > Barbara Watson, David Watson, Pam Osbourne, Gerry Osbourne
Below > Rachel Pybus, Ian Briggs
Below > Liz Keegan, David Martin
Below > Lynne Hart, Dame Stephanie Shirley,
Above > Michele Armstrong, Neil Harrison
Above > Sara Henry, Helen Johnson Below > Danielle Simon, Alan Smith, Steph Simon
Above > Biba Jameson, Abby Timmins
Above > Susan Robertson, Paul Robertson
Cobblestone Charity Fashion Show In Aid of Friarage Hospital, Whinstone View, Great Ayton Below > Shirley Watts
Above > Jenny Lawn, Jacqueline Graham, Louise White, Sue Hozie
Above > Gillian Sockett, Sue Jones, Hilary Humphrey, Moira Newhouse, Wendy Fordy, Maureen Clinkard, Maria Humphrey, Delyse Stokeld, Margaret Turner, Sue Smith
RICHARD SINTON for now, forever 94
Below > Jean O’Hare
Above > Gwen Sutton
Up to 3 year’s 0% finance available*
Above > Dee Field
Upper Level Eldon Garden Newcastle Upon Tyne
*Ts&Cs apply
MAY/JUN15
Have to Love Charity Fashion Show for Maggie’s Centre, Livello, Newcastle
RICHARD SINTON
Below > Lindsey Bishop, Charlotte Pugh, Steph Grieve
Above > Karen Verrill
Above > Kate Walton, Jill Hodgson, Rebecca Pringle, Lyndsey Page Below > Francesca Toole
Below > Grace Bungoni
for now, forever
Above > Miss Newcastle Nicole Bailey
Above > Bethan Osman, Zoe Briggs
Chin4Jamie Grace House Ball, Stadium of Light, Sunderland Below > Ryan Faill, Rachel Payne, Danielle Wright, Jaime Chapman
Above > Joan Lusby, Edward Lusby, Anthony Coatsworth, Sally Noble, Dee Noble Above > Dale Wilson, Lesley Haswell Below > Rick Hallikeri, Louise Hallikeri
Above > Laura Taggart, Faye Chase, Katy Taylor
Up to 3 year’s 0% finance* 1 year’s free insurance*
Above > Simon Wade, Peter Sheridan Below > Pat Middlemiss, Andrea Foster, Tracey Frear
Upper Level
Above > Hannah Dunn, Jeni Banks, David Smith
Eldon Garden Newcastle Upon Tyne Above > Vanessa Grubb, Stuart Grubb
Let’s see you! If you would like your event featured on our Luxe:Looks pages please supply images with full captions (We Transfer or Dropbox is best) to: kathryn@remembermedia.co.uk
MAY/JUN15
*Ts&Cs apply 95
good stuff
Sweet charity Doing good things in the North East, our charity round-up Cakes for a cause >>
Sir John Hall, Sir Len Fenwick OBE, and Meenu Malhotra, Chairman of the Malhotra Group.
Jacksons Law Firm is organising “The Butterwick Bake Off ” in aid of Butte rwick Hospice Care. Jacksons, a corporate partner of the hospice, has arranged an inter-company baking competitio n, including the notorious “showstopp er”, where companies will make a cake which says something about their business. Over 20 local businesses have taken up the challenge. The entries will be judged at a finale in the magnificen t setting of the Grand Marquee at Wyny ard Hall on June 4th by a panel of celeb rity judges include Pam Royle of ITV News , Eugene McCoy of The Crathorne Arms . In addition to the judging, the finale event will include music from Vivo Swing Orchestra from the Sage, Gateshead , an afternoon tea, stalls and cookery demonstration. Tickets cost £20 and can be bought from Jacksons by telephonin g 01642 356500 or sending an emai l to dduf fy@jacksons-law.com
So Chuffed >> Newcastle-based Malhotra Group PLC recently held a dinner attended by 100 business leaders and professionals to officially launch its new status. The company - which operates in the leisure, care and property sectors - also used the event to raise funds for their chosen charity for 2015, CHUF (Children’s Heart Unit Fund) at Newcastle’s Freeman Hospital, raising an impressive £11,742 on the night. Guests attending the event at Jesmond Dene House, heard speeches from Sir Len Fenwick OBE, the Chief Executive of Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Foundation Trust, Prof David Deehan, Honorary Clinical Professor with the University of Newcastle, North East Agent for the Bank of England, Mauricio Armellini and from Meenu Malhotra, Chairman of the Malhotra Group.
Dragon’s den >> ROTARY clubs across the North East are hoping that a fiery fund-raising initiative will be a roaring success. This September the region will be hosting a major Dragon Boat Race and teams are now being sought to take part in what promises to be an exciting challenge. The event on September 5, which is taking place at Hetton Lyons Country Park, Hetton-le-Hole, will challenge teams of 20 to beat the clock for the chance to compete in a final race and win a number of prizes, along with raising money for their chosen charity. www.dragonboat.co.uk or contact Peter Calvert via peter.calvert3@ntlworld.com or by ringing 0191 528 5446.
Big hearts for Bobby >>
Lobster tales >> The 10th annual Lobster Charity Ball, organised by Ramside Estate, raised more than £33,600 for Stockton-based Daisy Chain, which supports young people on the autistic spectrum, and their families. The black tie event at Hardwick Hall Hotel, Sedgefield, was attended by more than 900 people, with guests enjoying an evening of live music, fine dining and fundraising, including a performance by soul sensation Jocelyn Brown. Since its launch in 2006, the Lobster Charity Ball has raised more than £250,000 for the region’s good causes, including £50,000 for Daisy Chain in 2013 and 2014.
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The Sir Bobby Robson Foundation celebrated its seventh fund-raising year with the announcement of a new fundraising total of £8 million. The ongoing success of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation is testament to the tremendous fundraising efforts to support it, the work it funds and the enduring appeal of the man who founded it. Lady Elsie says: “We’re absolutely thrilled by this new fundraising total. It’s incredible really. We had no idea how well-supported we would be when we launched in 2008. Bob would be stunned. “He was so proud of this charity and the work that it funds. And we’re so proud that we are able to continue the work we all began together to help other people facing cancer.” Most recently, the Foundation helped fund a combination of cutting edge radiotherapy technology, which was previously only available in London and is now at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care at Newcastle’s Freeman Hospital. The stereotactic radiotherapy system uses detailed scans and computerised 4D treatment planning to treat cancer and deliver radiation with tremendous accuracy. To make a donation, view messages of support, or for more information visit www. sirbobbyrobsonfoundation.org.uk or donate by sending a cheque to Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, Charitable Funds Office, Peacock Hall, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4LP.
Bowled over >> Durham’s Big Birthday Blast celebrates the 20th birthdays of Durham County Cricket Club (DCCC) and County Durham Community Foundation (CDCF). It’s happening at the Emirates Durham International Cricket Ground on August 16, twenty years since the first ball was bowled at the ground. The event will see the Lashings cricket team, a team made up of a number of international cricketers, play a T20 cricket match that will help introduce the sport to new audiences, as well as interval entertainment from Peppa Pig and SpongeBob SquarePants, food and drink from local producers and a range of fun day activities, including soft play, face painting and other celebrity guests. The event is part of the club’s First Class Futures (FCF) initiative that hopes to raise enough funds to develop a nursery training ground beside the EDICG to benefit young cricketers across the region. www.durhamccc.co.uk
MAY/JUN15
Settle down for a sweet treat of a weekend‌ best ways to spend those lazy summer days, be sure to sign up to Luxe Loves For the
the Weekend, our must-read weekly guide to everything from
picnic spots to food festivals, summer recipes and cool places to eat & stay.
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parting SHOT
Life is sweet >> The time is now to find a picnic place for lashings of seasonal strawberries. Photography by Nicky Rogerson www.nrphotography.co.uk
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MAY/JUN15
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Enjoy a complimentary Prosecco & Canapes on arrival followed by a walk around the magnificent venue. The hall will be dressed for a wedding with both the wedding team and a selection of suppliers on hand to speak with. Free entry! Wynyard Hall, Tees Valley, TS22 5NF | 01740 644 811 | www.wynyardhall.co.uk