Luxe Issue 49 Nov/Dec 17

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ISSUE 49 NOV/DEC17

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www.luxe-magazine.co.uk ISSUE 49 NOV/DEC17

RU GB Y ’ S TO B Y F LO OD . Cul t ural mus t s . FES TIV E LUX E . Social diary.

G ROO M I N G. Lu xe l o c al . B OUTIQUE H OTEL B L IS S . Par t y-ready fashion.

S AV V Y W R I T E R S . Gour met gi f t i ng. G ENER ATION AG ELESS. Go- faster m o to r s . S N OWY S TAYS . Bi g names. LUX E.

WHERE SOLD

AW17 COLLECTIONS NOW IN STORE Gilet PS by Paul Smith

Northumberland Street, Newcastle upon Tyne fenwick.co.uk

Shirt PS by Paul Smith

WELCOME

contents 10>> Do This ISSUE 49 NOV/DEC17 Luxe comes with a sprinkle of festive goodness, revelling in this mostly shiny, happy time of the year.

Let’s forget how we’ve managed to get to November. I think I blinked and missed the past 11 months.

Is that the age thing? The busy lives thing?

The no switch-off button hamster wheel of life? Maybe just counting the months in print deadlines.

Nonetheless, the festive season finds itself upon us and it’s very tricky not to be sweetened by a smidgen of that impending cheer.

We’re here to share the joy with a helping hand, a bit of inspiration, and some nifty ideas within our Festive Essentials magazine.

As ever our lovely Luxe columnists share food, travel and gifting tips – one of which, from Kate Rose, is to ditch the turkey, make Christmas Eve your ‘grown-up’ presents and Champagne time – then totally give the big day over to the little ones – making your festive table an open-all-day feast. Food for thought indeed, would you dare?

Whether your festivities favour the traditional or on-trend, we hope they offer up some marvellous times with your best people.

Season’s greetings from us all at Luxe

Merry and bright events

24>> Slow food Tasteful art at mima

28>> Glow-getters Party-ready fashion

40>> Model guy Lewis hits the big time

52>> Toby Flood Rugby homecoming

64>> Snowy escapes Wonderland getaways

68>> Generation ageless Cover guy Toby Flood talks to us about moving back to the North East after a spell in Toulouse and a new world of wines as he makes his return to Premiership rugby with the Newcastle Falcons. His luxe things in life include: “Winter weekends spent in the picturesque Pyrénées, a good Sunday lunch after a win at Kingston Park - and a bottle of St Emilion!”

Tri-athlete Vicky Gilroy

72>> Food matters Decadent and delicious

78>> Mary Berry Entertaining in style

82>> Festive magic Go-with-the flow Christmas

86>> Heavenly hotel Dip into the Cookie Jar

96>> George Friend Footballer’s gift guide secrets

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

102>> Motors Alfa, Range Rover and Rolls Royce

106>> Social Diary

THE LUXE TEAM Christopher March publisher chris@remembermedia.co.uk EDITORIAL Kathryn Armstrong editorial director kathryn@remembermedia.co.uk Jessica Laing jessica@remembermedia.co.uk Elysia Agnew elysia@remembermedia.co.uk SALES Lisa Anderson director lisa@remembermedia.co.uk Debi Coldwell director debi@remembermedia.co.uk Heather Spacey project manager heather@remembermedia.co.uk PHOTOGRAPHY Chris Auld chris@chrisauldphotography.co.uk Kevin Gibson info@kgphotography.co.uk Nicky Rogerson info@kgphotography.co.uk

Vicky Gilroy from Whitley Bay features in our Generation Ageless pages. She’s a very focused tri-athlete, representing the UK in the sport.

Her luxe things in life feature: “running along the beach with my dog on a crisp winter’s day, feasting on a curry with my family and a hot bath after a cold cycle ride.”

DESIGN David Stubbs creative director dave@remembermedia.co.uk 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 Heather Spacey: heather@remembermedia.co.uk / 07846 073584

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

Lee Tolley is a co-owner of award-winning Chadwicks in Maltby and will be offering up wine inspiration as a new contributor to Luxe. His luxe things in life are: “Cooking up a storm in the kitchen to feed family and friends.

Travelling to different countries and eating what the locals eat - and opening a good aged red wine”.

luxe is published bi-monthly by Remember Media Ltd

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LUXE LOVES

LUXE LOVES Winter whimsy This is the festive table you would have for your wishful, Pinterest dream day for sure. (The one with no turkey to get in the way). Linen and lace tablecloth, £98, glassware from £36 (set of six), tableware from £24, Christmas decorations from £8.

Brissi&Co www.brissi.com

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NOV/DEC17

At Christmas

Give them something extra special this Christmas frvom Award Winning Artist Lucy Pittaway

Originals • Prints • Beautiful Gifts www.lucypittaway.co.uk Richmond • Brompton-On-Swale

Location, Location, Location...

NORTON

• 1,300 sq ft of aspirational luxury Norton living, 2 baths • Class B+ Efficiency rating (best in class), 100% LED lighting • Interiors by Trish of Barker & Stonehouse • Kitchen by Jon of Stokesley Kitchens

• Bespoke handmade windows and doors • CCTV and burglar alarm, internally and externally with 5-year maintenance agreement • 10-year structural warranty, 5-year warranty on all appliances

“A charming collection of five three-storey bespoke townhouses”

VILLAGE Aspirational Luxurious Village Living

Perfectly placed, The Mews, Marmaduke Place is setting the stage for luxury living in Norton Village, a delightful suburb within the burgeoning Teesside economy.

This charming collection of five, three-storey bespoke townhouses boasts a unique and tranquil location in the heart of this vibrant, up-and-coming North East village.

Norton’s Anglo-Saxon heritage is at the heart of a village which is growing in popularity amongst professionals and families, making a home and property investment here a wise and attractive one.

Norton is home to a beautiful, tree-lined high street with a mixture of 18th and 19th century townhouses, boutique businesses, shops, hairdressers, restaurants, cafes and studios.

The beating community heart of this bustling village is Cafe Maison with its friendly and vibrant team. This thriving village also breaks new boundaries in terms of efficient, contemporary living in stunning new-build properties at Marmaduke Place.

Norton Village with its famous Victoria Memorial Cross at its centre is an obvious pull for those looking to put down roots in a village setting which can also offer a cosmopolitan lifestyle.

With two out of five of The Mews properties already sold and a substantial amount of interest from prospective buyers, Future ID has taken the bold decision to temporarily remove the properties from the market in order to concentrate on the high standard of detail in completing the sold properties for Christmas.

It is planned to have a schedule for prospective buyers’ visits by Christmas 2017 with private appointment times allocated to each. This will allow time for the prospective buyers to enjoy a glass of Champagne or a coffee whilst viewing the properties, and relaxing in the environment they will be buying into.

For more information and to book a private viewing, please use the website below.

• • • •

Solid oak flooring and carpets throughout Luxury Villeroy & Boch sanitaryware Master suite with walk-in wet room Automated lighting, sound, heating and access systems

www.futuredevelopments.org

DO THIS

Stay in >> go out >> enjoy Chloé Laing lets you know it’s Christmas time with plenty of festive fun to brighten up dark winter nights 14 NOVEMBER Blues music pioneer John Mayall will be performing at the Sage for an evening of mesmerising music that will have you captivated from start to finish. John’s band The Bluesbreakers launched the careers of legends like Eric Clapton, Mick Fleetwood, Mick Taylor, Peter Green and John McVie. An unmissable evening with one of the most influential blues musicians of all time. www.sagegateshead.com

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Global superstar Elaine Paige will be singing her way into The Sage this season. A night to remember as she performs the hits that made her a star with fabulous songs such as Memory and I Know Him So Well. An unmissable evening of spectacular musical theatre. www.sagegateshead.com

NOVEMBER

Russian State Ballet leap into the Tyne Theatre and Opera House with the timeless Swan Lake, a classic tale that makes tragedy elegant with a mesmerising performance. The original score by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky will be re-enacted with over 30 musicians; the performance promises to be showstopping and one not to miss! www.tynetheatreandoperahouse.uk

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The talented Joan Clevillé Dance company returns to Dance City with their performance The North.

Following the journey of a young man searching for meaning in an unpredictable world using dance, physical theatre and puppetry. www.dancecity.co.uk

Moving house inspired Bridget Jones’ exhibition ‘Pieced: Assembled Fragments’ at Northern Print. The established Glaswegian glass and print maker showcases her talents with a new collection of unique artwork that you can take home or purchase as a special gift. Grab one while you can! www.ouseburnopenstudios.org

UNTIL JANUARY

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NOVEMBER

Slip on your blue suede shoes because the King is on his way to Newcastle’s City Hall. All the way from the USA Shawn Klush (the world’s most successful Elvis tribute artist) will be singing all of the icon’s greatest hits. With guest appearances from some of Elvis’ original band members and a live orchestra you’ll feel like you’re rocking away back in the 50s. www.theatreroyal.co.uk

NOVEMBER

Returning for its 8th year in a row, the breathtaking Angels of the North Concert will be back at the Sage Gateshead. Get into the Christmas spirit with the wonderful voices of over 400 North East Primary School students and the talented pupils from the ‘Bommel Musical Theatre Arts.’ An unmissable evening sponsored by the North of England charity ‘Angels of the North’. www.sagegateshead.com

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8 NOVEMBER - 21 DECEMBER

NOVEMBER

Christmas with the Rat Pack is still the coolest party in town so beat the winter blues with Frank, Sammy and Dean. Drift back in time to the glamorous, glitzy nights of Vegas in the company of the sound-a-like trio with seasonal classics including: Baby it’s Cold Outside, Let it Snow Let it Snow, White Christmas, Winter Wonderland and Auld Lang Syne. www.sagegateshead.com

Fantastically funny comedy superstar John Bishop will be bringing laughter to the Metro Radio Arena this winter with his Winging It tour. Get ready to laugh out loud with one of the UK’s most outstanding comics. www.metroradioarena.co.uk

Join Muddy Fingers Pottery for an afternoon of festive fun at The Laing Art Gallery. Pop on a pinny and get lost in creative flow, create unique Christmas decorations and tea light holders in their workshop. Leave with a fabulous homemade gift for someone special or a dazzling decoration for your home. www.laingartgallery.org.uk

Take a quick trip to Italy with Blackfriars fabulous Pizza and Prosecco workshop. Learn how to make the most divine home-made sourdough flatbreads and pizzas, sprinkled with the finest artisan toppings.

Sip on a chilled glass of prosecco while you work on your masterpiece guided

by Blackfriars’ master baker. Cheers to that! www.blackfriarsrestaurant.co.uk

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18 NOVEMBER Comeback kid James Arthur is returning to where it all began at the Metro Radio Arena with special guest and fellow X Factor competitor Ella Henderson. After returning to the spotlight with his single Say You Won’t Let Go, James has gone on to achieve multiple #1s, a platinum-selling album, sold out tours and two BRITs Nominations. www.metroradioarena.co.uk

Fly to Neverland for an enchanting adventure with Peter Pan at this year’s Theatre Royal pantomime performance. Join the unstoppable trio Danny Adams, Clive Webb and Chris Hayward as they have you laughing out of your seats and topping up your Christmas cheer.

A performance all the family will enjoy with dazzling costumes, spectacular special effects and lots of laughs all the way. You won’t want to miss it! www.theatreroyal.co.uk

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4 DECEMBER Scrumptious treats are being cooked in Mrs Claus’ Kitchen at the Gala Theatre, but what happens when her gingerbread man comes to life? A whole lot of mischief and fun - and it isn’t long until he finds himself top of the naughty list. Mrs Claus needs the audiences’ help to get her kitchen back in order.

Fabulous festive fun for the little ones that will have the whole family excited for Christmas. www.galadurham.co.uk

SUPPLIERS OF UNIQUE & STYLISH FITTINGS

1 DECEMBER Joel Dommett charmed you last year on I’m a Celebrity … Get Me Out of Here! and now he is here to make you chuckle at the City Hall with his enthusiastic solo show. The young comedian will have you thoroughly entertained with his cunning wit and his high octane performance. www.theatreroyal.co.uk

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DECEMBER

Get some expert advice at Newburgh Priory Christmas Fair for your house or your winter fashion. Learn all there is to know about introducing colours into the home with a talk from Edward Bulmer; leading architectural historian and founder of Edward Bulmer Natural Paint.

Refresh your winter wardrobe with inspiration from Belinda Alexander, Womenswear and Beauty stylist from Fenwick York. www.priddenprandevents.com

5 DECEMBER We love a bit of nostalgia here and we’re getting double doses of it at the Metro Radio Arena. Steps and special guests The Vengaboys are well and truly back for a throwback performance that will be fun for all. Grab your tickets and get in line 5, 6, 7, 8. www.metroradioarena.co.uk

VISIT OUR STUNNING SHOWROOM LOCATED ON 63 - 65 HIGH STREET | GOSFORTH | NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE NE3 4AA TEL: 0191 285 3671

WWW.SARAHBOWENLIGHTING.CO.UK

GIFT A GIG

SAGE GATESHEAD HOME OF MUSIC (& great gift ideas for music lovers) The world is full of ‘stuff’, so why add to the haul with unnecessary Christmas presents?

Give your music loving loved one a gift with more meaning with a little help from Sage Gateshead, the region’s home of music.

COME HOME FOR CHRISTMAS...

Choose from hundreds of performances spanning a huge range of genres; indie, Americana, jazz, rock, pop, classical and more.

GIFT A MEMBERSHIP Gift either a Sage Supporter or Friends of Royal Northern Sinfonia membership and your loved one will receive a huge range of benefits.

GIFT A PACKAGE OF CONCERTS Classical lovers will really appreciate a package booking of Royal Northern Sinfonia concerts (and you’ll save up to 25% over standard booking!)

GIFT A MUSICAL COURSE, CLASS OR WORKSHOP With courses, classes and workshops for adults, children and babies, your loved one will be delighted to unwrap the chance to learn a musical instrument or brush up their skills.

Full details of all our gifting and giving options available online at www.sagegateshead.com, or contact us on 0191 443 4661

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7 DECEMBER

DO THIS

8 DECEMBER Hi Ho, Hi Ho, it’s off to the Middlesbrough Theatre we go for a spectacular pantomime performance of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

With Emmerdale’s Deena Payne and Adele Silva as the Wicked Queen and Snow White, you know you’re in for a treat. www.middlesbroughtheatre.co.uk

8 DECEMBER

One of the world’s greatest choirs, The Sixteen, are familiar to many as ‘The Voices of Classic FM’. Their annual Christmas pilgrimage touring the UK’s finest cathedrals sells out year after year and it’s a privilege to welcome them to Sage Gateshead with a programme including Poulenc’s Christmas Motets and other festive choral works from the 16th century to the present day. www.sagegateshead.com

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DECEMBER

Feel-good fun show Laffs4Kids will warm your hearts this winter at the City Hall. There is no cost for entry - instead all you have to do is bring along a brand new, wrapped up Christmas toy for a little one to enjoy.

A unique night of comedy, music and fun for over 16s, all for a great cause! www.theatreroyal.co.uk

13 DECEMBER Shimmy on down to the Hardwick Hall Hotel and enjoy The All New Jersey Boys’ performance of all your favourite Frankie Valli and the Four Season’s hits. Dance the night away to their tribute performances of Sherry, Oh What A Night, Big Girls Don’t Cry and many more. www.hardwickhallhotel.com

DECEMBER

Outstanding comedian Jon Richardson brings his dry sense of humour and sublimely brilliant act to the City Hall this winter. The 8 out of 10 Cats and Live At The Apollo star will be cracking up the North East audiences with his brand new show ‘Old Man’. www.theatreroyal.co.uk

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19 NOVEMBER Pop down to A Still Life’s wonderful Christmas Market in the Reading Rooms, Crathorne and to pick up some uniquely hand crafted gifts. Get inspired with gift making ideas to use in one of their workshops. www.astill-life.co.uk

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NOVEMBER

For a gift that sparkles head to the Christmas Candle workshop at A Still Life. Relax and enjoy the therapeutic art of candle making that will take a little bit of stress out of Christmas. Pick out your own personal fragrances and create the perfect table accessory for Christmas day or a personalised gift for a loved one. www.astill-life.co.uk

26 NOVEMBER Learn a fabulous new skill at A Still Life’s Christmas Decoration Workshop. Hand stitch and create your very own Christmas decorations to style your home with.

Lay your new masterpieces on the mantelpiece, pop on your tree or wind around the staircase. Wonderful one-off pieces that will warm up your Christmas home. www.astill-life.co.uk

10 DECEMBER Stand out this season and design your very own greeting cards, gift tags and dinner party place cards. Choose from hand-finished alpine and winter lakeside prints with beautiful gilded, stitched and jewelled details or design your own botanical/tree collection using carbon prints, inks, masking fluid, stitching and metallic paints. Little loving touches that show how much you care. www.astill-life.co.uk

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DECEMBER

Dress up your door with a stunning handmade wreath. Arrange a collection of beautiful natural ingredients together to build up your perfect front door decoration. A lovely day to put you in the festive spirit. www.astill-life.co.uk

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19-31 DECEMBER Joe McElderry is returning home this Christmas with the vibrant family musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor® Dreamcoat at the Metro Radio Arena. The sensational production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s family musical has ruled Box Offices for years, head down to find out why the performance is praised by all year after year. www.metroradioarena.co.uk

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DECEMBER

Young, sassy and innovative, Monster Ceilidh Band are on a crusade to bring a powerfully modern and un-patronising approach to ceilidh music; dance music which has its feet in the heritage and tradition of the British Isles. They combine, explosive and fiery folk with funky riffs, glitchy drum ‘n’ bass beats and live drums, featuring the award-winning talents of accordionist Amy Thatcher and violinist Shona Mooney. Jig along at Sage, Gateshead. www.sagegateshead.com

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CHRISTMAS WORKSHOPS

BOOK NOW AT THE PRINCESS ALEXANDRA AUDITORIUM

DECEMBER

Capping another adventurous year in spectacular, dramatic style, Mercury-nominated Tynesiders The Unthanks, with the orchestral arrangements of their instinctive, self-taught pianist Adrian McNally, take a symphonic exploration into their best loved material, plus new work specially devised for these shows, including the moving forthcoming release, Hymn For Syria. www.sagegateshead.com

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Record breakers, chart toppers and country crossover stars Ward Thomas are returning to Gateshead for an exclusive show. 22-yearold twins Catherine and Lizzy made history with their stunning major label debut when it reached the top spot in the UK album charts, by becoming the first ever UK country act to achieve the feat. www.sagegateshead.com

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NOVEMBER

Join one of Britain’s most popular artists David Hockney and celebrate his global success with an intimate and in-depth filmed interview. The film focuses on two blockbuster exhibitions held in 2012 and 2016 at the Royal Academy of Art in London. The show promises to inspire, with Hockney still sharing his unbelievable talents with the world even as he enters his 9th decade. www.thepaaonline.org

FEBRUARY

Returning into the spotlight Lloyd Cole stops by Yarm’s Princess Alexandra Auditorium for an evening of his greatest hits. The critically acclaimed singer and lead member of Lloyd Cole & The Commotions will be showering fans with all their favourite hits, highlights including Perfect Skin, Rattlesnakes and Jennifer She Said. Enjoy an unmissable evening of singing along with Lloyd, celebrating his successful career. www.thepaaonline.org

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MARCH

30 NOVEMBER Glide into the Princess Alexandra Auditorium and revel in the iconic performance of Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake. His re-interpretation impressed at Sadler’s Wells in 1995 when he decided to replace the traditional female corps de ballet with a menacing male ensemble.

A mesmerising performance full of vibrant energy and intensity. www.thepaaonline.org

Come up and see Steve Harley and Cockney Rebel to reminisce over some of the greatest hits of all time. He’ll make you smile as you take a trip back in time with his Top 20 hits alongside Cockney Rebel. An outstanding night, not to be missed by fans old and new. www.thepaaonline.org

NOV/DEC17

ADVERTORIAL

Driving digital Time is precious. In this fast-paced world with high-speed connections, it seems we’re busier than ever.

The demands on our time, whether as a worker, a parent, a homemaker, or generally a combination of all and more, lead to ‘time-scarcity’, something felt particularly among working parents.

When under pressure to fulfil so many roles simultaneously and effectively, how can we make the best possible use of the little time available and prioritise those issues most important to us?

There is no doubt the so-called ‘digital age’ is key to bridging both time and distance when sourcing and obtaining both goods and services. Millennials know just how capable smartphones, tablets and laptops can be. They do most of their banking online, chat to friends using smartphones and buy tickets, gifts and flights using apps.

As a natural progression from being able to bank online, the banking and financial sectors have long seen digital as the driver for delivering great customer experience.

Recognising that customers are ‘time poor’ has driven the expansion of so-called remote advice.

In a recent study, 87% of professionals think face-to-face meetings are essential for sealing a business deal, while 95% said they are key to successful, long-lasting business relationships, but industry research has also shown that once a customer has an established relationship with their professional adviser/consultant, they do not necessarily want a face-to-face meeting every time they want to conduct business.

The legal profession is also embracing the digital era and overhauling its traditional approach to delivering services in order to better meet customer need.

In an area where time is literally money, this is not technology for novelty’s sake; rather, it’s about offering clients greater choice and more convenient access to expert advice and representation, providing alternative solutions to travelling and accessing the best possible service.

Major Family Law has a reputation for its innovative and forward-thinking approach to service delivery. By constantly researching and implementing new ways to make top quality specialist advice and representation accessible and affordable, the practice bucks the trend of Family Law practices in decline.

Having been at the forefront of the social media revolution, Major Family Law were early proponents of offering clients both ‘out of hours’ and remote access to advice by way of video conferencing services such as Skype and Facetime.

For those who are unable or choose not to visit the practice offices, but who still prefer a face-to-face consultation, video call appointments prove the optimum solution. Unconfined by traffic, travel, office hours, distance or even time zones, this service enables the lawyers to connect with more clients in the way that is most convenient for the individuals.

“It’s not a case of replacing expert legal advice from experienced qualified professionals,” says Practice Head, Joanne Major. “Rather, it’s about finding ways to offer clients maximum value for money with the minimum impact on both their time and ours.”

In addition to offering remote appointments, the firm has developed relationships with other lawyers and legal practices in other parts of the country and also abroad in areas with a high ex-pat population. It also offers the services of experienced lawyers based both in the South East and North West, allowing individuals in other parts of the country to access Major Family Law’s expertise

in their own locality.

“In the type of cases we handle,” says Joanne Major.

“It’s essential that communication is not lost, despite the fact that clients may be unable to attend our offices in person. We also believe strongly in being client-led and that means offering our expert services in ways which suit the lifestyles and expectations as well as the pockets of each of our clients.”

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

TIDY UP YOUR GARDEN THIS AUTUMN WITH CARRS BILLINGTON Groundscare Specialists, Byers Green, Spennymoor, DL16 7NL | 01388 662266 | carrs-billington.com

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DO THIS

FESTIVE FUN

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DECEMBER

Say Goodbye to 2017 and Hello to 2018 with Diane Shaw at Ramside Hall Hotel for the most sensational of celebrations. Dine in The Bishop Suite with a four-course feast and party all night long with Diane and the band. www.ramsidehallhotel.co.uk

4 DECEMBER Sing along with The Overtones as they take you on a magical journey through some of the most wonderful Christmas songs. With classics like White Christmas, Santa Claus Is Coming To Town and Let It Snow, you’ll be in high spirits from the start right through to the very end of the night. www.sagegateshead.com

NOVEMBER

Grab a glass of fizz and head to Rockliffe Hall’s sparkling Festive Beauty Bazaar Ladies Lunch. Indulge in a delicious two-course lunch or dinner as spa manager Victoria Rickett talks you through her favourite seasonal gifts from the boutique. www.rockliffehall.com

18-22 NOVEMBER Lace up and let go at Alnwick Garden’s Christmas Skating Rink. Whirl and twirl into the Christmas spirit in the most magical surroundings for ice skating in the North East. Grab a hot chocolate and warm yourself through afterwards as you wander around the gardens for even more in-thespirit fun. www.alnwickgarden.com

THROUGHOUT DECEMBER Tuck into some delicious festive feasts at The Feathers Inn at Hedley on the Hill. With a menu packed full of locally-sourced dishes, there’s everything you need for a perfectly merry evening of good food and drinks. www.thefeathers.net

31 DECEMBER Rockliffe Hall will be bringing in the New Year in style at their Viva Las Vegas New Year Ball. Tuck into a four-course dinner in the elegant Rockliffe Suite and enjoy an evening of glamour in true Vegas style with show girls and roulette tables. www.rockliffehall.com

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5 DECEMBER Get innovative at Blackfriars, Newcastle, as it hosts its fabulous Christmas Wreath Workshop. Fuel your creativity with a three-course lunch, glass of wine and coffee as horticultural expert, Kate Norris, teaches you how to make a wreath that will wow your guests this season. www.blackfriarsrestaurant.co.uk

13 DECEMBER Step into Christmas past and experience a winter wonderland from almost a century ago. Fill up on local foods and pick up some gorgeous gifts from one of the Town park stalls. Don’t forget to pop down to Father Christmas’ cosy fireside Grotto and say hello to him and his friendly reindeer team. Why not wander around Beamish afterwards for a day jam-packed with festive fun for all the family. www.beamish.org.uk

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2 DECEMBER

Roll up your sleeves and get working on a festive masterpiece at Newburgh Priory’s Ginger Bread House Workshop. Build up and jazz up the tastiest decoration in your home with snowy icing sugar roof and colourful sweets. Fun for all the family to enjoy - at the workshop and to tuck into after! www.priddenprandevents.com

A Christmas Fair with a difference! Bringing together independent vendors and products from across the region for a one-day event at Sage, Gateshead. A festive blend of free music and family friendly entertainment including Santa’s Grotto and a special visit from Bjorn the Polar Bear! www.sagegateshead.com

Returning to Wynyard Hall are the Royal Northern Sinfonia with a stunning concert performance of ‘Christmas by Candlelight’.

Sit back and enjoy as a string ensemble fills the room with fabulous festive music including Vivaldi, Corelli and Albinoni. www.wynyardhall.co.uk

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Wrap up warm and head down to Gibside chapel for Carols by Candlelight with the North East Gospel Choir. Immerse yourself in the Christmassy spirit as you listen to the beautiful performance or join in as the choir sing all of your favourite carols. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

DECEMBER

Sage hosts its Quayside New Year’s Eve extravaganza.

Candi Staton, the four-time Grammy award-nominated artist, will be ringing in 2018 with disco hits and pop classics.

Dining options are available too, including a three course dinner with half a bottle of wine for £39. www.sagegateshead.com

<< CHRISTMAS MARKETS >> 16 NOVEMBER

16-22 DECEMBER

Fill up your stockings at Wynyard Hall’s annual Christmas Fayre. The perfect presents await at over 150 stalls filled with festive foods, mulled wines, craft beers, jewellery and many more gifts galore. With carol singers amping up the festivity the fayre is everything your Christmas spirit needs. www.wynyardhall.co.uk

Step into a festive fairytale at York’s Christmas Festival. Warm yourself up with a steamy cup of mulled wine and fill up on all the heavenly festive treats at the St Nicholas Fair. Fun for all the family with ice skating and playful panto performances to keep you all firmly in the joyous spirit of Christmas. www.visityork.org/christmas

17-19 NOVEMBER Don your best Christmas jumpers and layer up for Auckland Castle’s three-day Christmas Food and Craft Market. Stock up on delicious artisan goodies to fill up your Christmas table and unique gifts to pop under the tree. www.thisisdurham.com

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16-17 DECEMBER Santa is taking a time out from his workshop this Christmas to pop down to The Bowes Museum Christmas Market. Let him know your last minute gifts and scoop a few up at one of the unique stalls. www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk

NOV/DEC17

ADVERTORIAL

Give the gift of time Autumn’s dark nights are upon us and for many people, particularly the elderly, the clocks going back can signal the start of long, endless and empty days

In our work caring for people at home, we know the difference a smiling face and a shared cup of tea can mean. How a long day can be broken with a meal, a walk or just companionship.

When the winter comes, weather gets cold and the days are so dark you can’t even see anything out of your window. The world can feel that bit lonelier.

It is a time when the Sally & Sarah team can come in and give extra care to vulnerable people. We can also be on hand to offer respite for the carers who need their own

time-out, perhaps for a day Christmas shopping without worrying about someone at home.

We are here to care for anyone who needs us. We can take your loved ones for days out; perhaps on their own shopping trips or to a festive event.

But it is worth saying that it isn’t just the professionals who need to be caring for others.

Have you got an elderly or vulnerable neighbour you could ‘adopt’? Could you pop in with a hot meal or just for a chat on those long dark days?

Could you offer someone a seat at your table for Christmas lunch?

There is an epidemic of loneliness among our elderly population which we could all help to change. *At Sally & Sarah we can offer ‘vouchers’ to buy for people who would benefit from some respite care for a few hours.

We can take over care responsibilities for as long as is needed on a flexible basis.

Please get in touch if you think we can help.

3 Innovation Court, Yarm, Road, Stockton TS18 3DA Offices open Monday to Friday, 9:00 to 17:00 01642 608070 hello@sallyandsarahcare.co.uk

Fine Food is a Fine Art Whether you’re a self-confessed ‘foodie’ or just a fan of trying great places, let awardwinning chef Richard Allen take you on a culinary journey showcasing intricate and imaginative dishes of varying textures, temperatures and tastes in Rockliffe Hall’s flagship 4AA Rosette Orangery restaurant.

As featured in the Sunday Times Top 100 Restaurants and the Good Food Guide.

To book a table please call 01325 729999, email enquiries@rockliffehall.com or visit www.rockliffehall.com

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

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DO THIS

16-19 NOVEMBER

THE BRIGHT STUFF

Make the most of the dark evenings with the return of Durham’s biennial light festival, Lumiere as it returns for a fifth time. The largest light festival in the UK will brighten up the winter nights with a spectacular array of colourful lights and dazzling displays. Iconic landmarks such as Durham Cathedral, Durham Castle and the historic Miners’ Hall at Redhills will be lit up, illuminating Durham’s history and heritage.

The sparkling festival is put together by arts charity Artichoke with the help of a team of sponsors who contribute to the £2million funding for the event. The displays have been created by esteemed artists from all over the world to bring something special and unique to Durham city centre.

Durham Cathedral will be transformed by Pablo Valbuena’s vision Methods. The interior and exterior of the Cathedral

will represent the 17th century art of change using bells; the synergy of sound and projecting patterns of light across the entire cathedral. Bell ringers from all over the globe will pop down to ring the bells in the Cathedral.

Our Moon by the brilliant Hannah Fox will represent the faces of local people from all walks of life.

The expressions of 66 people from the ages of 5 to 78 will be projected onto the castle in the face of a moon to represent the whole spectrum of the Durham community.

The Miners’ Hall at Redhills will host Common Good where the city will be lit up with the stories of Durham’s hidden heroes. Up to 70 everyday heroes will share stories of their bravery in the community.

Lumiere is a spectacular way to brighten up the dark nights this winter.

We’ve put together eight amazing reasons for you to head to Durham and explore the impressive artwork and displays.

8 REASONS TO LOVE LUMIERE >> 1. Global reach. Artists from all over the world have created the beautiful displays that shine brightly all over Durham.

Hailing from the UK, Canada, Sweden, the Netherlands and many more, each artist has created a display unique to Durham city centre.

Periodic Table that has the emotions as the elements.

2. Year after year displays get even bigger, brighter and more impressive. Real fire, surprise flash mobs with lighted umbrellas and hand-crafted installations will take your breath away.

6. The festival celebrates the community surrounding it within their installations and inspirations.

3. Interactive installations mean you can step into the fun.

Anonymous lets you perform by stepping into a glowing white cube where your dance will be anonymously projected on the Gala Theatre.

4. Tech-tastic. Tweet #LumiereDurham to share how the festival makes you feel. Your emotion will light up on a

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5. It is free, so you can enjoy a night with friends and family without a hefty price tag! Observe, interact, explore and enjoy in the company of your best buddies.

7. Put the limelight on local businesses and support them by popping down for a local pub lunch, restaurant dinner or hot chocolate in one of Durham’s bustling cafes.

8. Get up close with Durham’s awe-inspiring historical heritage and see the city’s most impressive landmarks become luminous artworks. www.thisisdurham.com

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GOOD STUFF

Sweet charity Doing good things in the North East, our charity round-up...

COCO CELEBRATES >>

WHITE STUFF >> A charity event has hit all the white notes after raising £25,000 for The Children’s Heart Unit at the Freeman Hospital.

Sunderland couple Sergio and Emma Petrucci hosted a Dubai-inspired afternoon at Ramside Hall, which raised £25,000 for the unit that saved their daughter Luna’s life less than two years ago.

The Ashbrooke husband and wife, who founded Red Sky Ball, organised the White Party Brunch to raise cash that will go towards funding lifesaving equipment for young children with heart problems. It takes their total funds raised to just shy of £140,000 in just over 18 months.

The event attracted support from a number of commercial partners from the region and beyond, including their main sponsor Emirates. More than 360 guests attended the event.

DIARY DATES >> 16 NOVEMBER Festive Inspiring Afternoon for Children North East, Biscuit Factory, Newcastle.

Tickets £40 each. Please contact carol. taylor@children-ne.org.uk to reserve your places now.

23 NOVEMBER

Steve Cram’s charity, COCO has celebrated a massive fund-raising milestone of more than £4 million.

The Newcastle-based international children’s charity COCO (Comrades of Children Overseas) has raised the sum thanks to sustained support from regional businesses, schools, universities, the sporting community and members of the public.

At a special event in Newcastle, hosted by Muckle LLP, the charity thanked supporters and showcased projects that have benefited from donations. COCO has supported over 50 transformational projects in 16 countries, impacting the lives of more than 175,000 people.

NELD >> North East Ladies Day was a social and fundraising triumph, raising £18,000 for two small, but dedicated, North East charities run by women.

The event, headlined by singer and actor Toyah, was held at Hardwick Hall in Sedgefield and attended by 500 women from across the region.

The event is a networking and social occasion and at its heart is support for small, lesser-known charities in the region who often struggle for funding.

Beneficiaries this year were Family Help, Darlington which supports women and families affected by domestic violence and Butterfly Giving, set up by local lass, Hannah Larkin, to offer gift boxes to teenagers in hospital. www.northeastladiesday.co.uk

Ladies Lunch, Middlesbrough and Teesside Philanthropic Foundation Rudby Hall. Two-course lunch and guest speaker, Elite Make-Up Artist, Amanda Bell.

Tickets, £35.

Email mandy.s@teessidecharity.org.uk or call 01642 686018.

FOR ALICE >>

24 NOVEMBER Winter Ball for Daisy Chain, Hardwick Hall, Sedgefield.

Contact the Fundraising Team on 01642 531 248.

1 DECEMBER Festive Afternoon Tea and wreathmaking demonstration in aid of Butterwick Hospice at Hardwick Hall. www.butterwick.org Photos by Simon Hogben www.simonhogben.co.uk

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(Front row L-R) Tracy Woodall, Chief Executive of Alice House Hospice, Mary Musgrave, Mary Littler.

(Back row L-R) Chris Musgrave, Wynyard Park, Julie Hildreth, Alice House Hospice’s Senior Fundraising Manager

Generous guests at a charity race day supported by Wynyard Park have helped to raise over £50,000 for Hartlepool’s Alice House Hospice in celebration of the life of Joe Musgrave, a founder director of Wynyard Park. Joe, who died in 2016, was also a founding patron of Alice House Hospice.

“Joe was an avid race-goer who had many wonderful memories of the Sedgefield Racecourse and the day was a perfect memorial to his life. Alice House Hospice is a jewel in the crown of Hartlepool, due to the wonderful work it performs in caring for the seriously ill and he would have been very grateful for the support shown,” said his widow Mary.

She added: “Joe was the love of my life - a true gentleman, who lives on through our children, Lynn, Lesley and Chris.”

The family has recently funded the conversion of two more bedrooms on the long term unit. www.alicehousehospice.co.uk

NOV/DEC17

Whittakers White Rose , Unit 61, White Rose Centre , Leeds, LS11 8LL | 0113 270 2272 Whittakers Morpeth, 18 Sanderson Arcade , Morpeth, Nor thumberland, NE61 1NS | 01670 511 333 W h i t t a k e r s Ya r m , 6 3 H i g h S t r e e t , Ya r m , S t o c k t o n - O n - Te e s , T S 1 5 9 B H | 0 1 6 4 2 7 8 8 0 8 8

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LUXE LIFE

JOANNE JOHNSON Joanne Johnson is the Director of the Tyne Theatre and Opera House, which was set up to operate the theatre on behalf of the Preservation Trust. The company’s aim is to restore and protect the Grade I listed Theatre celebrating its 150th anniversary this year.

Originally from Sheffield, Joanne has lived in the North East for over 20 years and is married with three children.

LUXE PEOPLE >> My family and friends are really important to me. They are a great source of encouragement and support and ensure that life is full of fun and laughter.

LUXE PLACES >> for a weekend > A few years ago, I bought a classic VW Campervan and have enjoyed many weekends away exploring the beautiful countryside and coastline which is on our doorstep. My boys love packing a bag for a spur-of-the-moment adventure. a long holiday > One of my favourite holidays was travelling around Thailand but there is so much more to explore and discover. Vietnam and Cambodia are also on my dream list. a treat > Escaping to a country house with a spa for a weekend of relaxation and pampering. We are lucky that there are lots of great venues to choose from in the North East.

LUXE RELAX >> Best food > I love a tapas style meal with friends so we can all share, it’s a very social way to eat and gives you the opportunity to try new things.

Best wine > My preference is a refreshing glass of dry white wine, or a glass of fizz is nice.

Favourite restaurant > Newcastle has such a wide variety of great restaurants now but a favourite is Miller & Carter for a great steak, and the onion bread is delicious.

Perfect weekend > A night out at the theatre with friends and blowing the cobwebs away with a long walk along the beach followed by a big Sunday roast.

Downtime means > It doesn’t happen very often but a lie in, followed by a relaxing bath with a book, then snuggling on the sofa to watch a movie would be heaven.

Best telly > I like to get my teeth into dark, gritty dramas like Peaky Blinders and The Fall or I find science and nature programmes like Planet Earth and Spy in the Wild fascinating.

Best book > I read a lot with my children, they love getting lost in a good story but I’m trying to read more books for me. I enjoy thrillers; Girl on the Train was the last book I read which had me hooked.

Best sounds > My music collection is a real mixed bag but my feel-good genre is Motown and Northern Soul, it always gets me dancing. I love the soul divas like Aretha Franklin, Gladys Knight and Martha Reeves.

LUXE SHOP >> Best shopping city > I struggle to find the time to go shopping and usually prefer to shop online with my feet up and a glass of wine.

However, if I had to choose it would probably be York, I love the relaxed atmosphere and the historic surroundings.

Favourite shop > I like to find unique things for our home or as gifts so often visit small craft or home-made shops while we are on our travels. Green Ginger Gallery in Low Fell or French Grey Tales in Morpeth are great.

Best buy > It has to be my campervan, Marge. It is something that I’ve wanted from being a teenager so to have finally bought one is a dream come true.

LUXE PARTY >> A memorable night out > We went to New York for our first wedding anniversary and enjoyed a fantastic meal in a Michelin star restaurant under the Brooklyn bridge, it felt really special.

Perfect party > It would have to be inviting all our family and friends around for a food and a catch-up, there is always lots of laughter and sometimes dancing.

Best dress > I took a sewing course and managed to make my own dress for my nephew’s wedding. It was the perfect fit and it guaranteed that I wouldn’t be wearing the same as anyone else.

Dinner date > My husband, we don’t get to spend much time alone with busy workloads and three wild boys so being able to go out for a nice meal and enjoy being husband and wife is a treat.

YOUR LUXE THING IN LIFE >> I feel quite lucky to have a job that I really enjoy in a theatre that I am passionate about.

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NOV/DEC17

the area’s leading school come and see for yourself

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17/10/2017

An Interview With Carolyn Tilly, Managing Partner, Tilly Bailey & Irvine Law Firm Teesside law firm, Tilly Bailey & Irvine, has a lot to talk about this year. Not only is it celebrating 175 years in business, but it also has a new Managing Partner, Carolyn Tilly, who shares some of her thoughts with us in this issue.

Carolyn, congratulations on being made Managing Partner. Tell us a bit about your time at the firm.

I joined Tilly Bailey and Irvine in 1990 and I became the firm’s first female partner 18 years ago. I started working in the Matrimonial Department specialising in private divorce and ancillary relief. I then transferred to the Probate Department following the retirement of Hugh Tilly. For the past ten years, I have been Head of the Private Client Department which includes the probate, residential conveyancing and investment departments.

I became the firm’s first female Managing Partner at the beginning of October this year.

I understand the firm is also celebrating 175 years in business. How did the firm start?

Yes, the firm was founded in Church Street in 12:44:37 Hartlepool 175 years ago before moving to its current premises in York Road in the late 1960s. I am the fifth generation Tilly (albeit through marriage) to have managed the firm.

We have grown and now have over 160 employees within a Legal 500 firm, as well as additional offices in Stockton, Barnard Castle and Wynyard Business Park. I am sure that the firm’s founders would be very proud of what we have achieved, growing into one of the largest firms in Teesside.

Why do you think Tilly Bailey & Irvine is different from other law firms?

We are completely client focused. We provide the client with the service that we would expect to receive ourselves. With specialist solicitors across most areas of law, we are well placed to be able to provide our clients with an exceptional service.

What is the highlight of your job?

The people I work with. It’s often said and with good reason, that it’s people are a company’s greatest asset, and I am privileged to work with a fantastic team.

What do you do in your spare time?

With a husband, three children; my eldest son at university and my twins in their final year of Sixth Form, as well as my elderly parents, I don’t have much spare time. However, as a family we enjoy regular meals out together and family walks with our spaniel.

Tilly Bailey & Irvine Law Firm York Chambers, York Road, Hartlepool, TS26 9DP Tel: 0800 015 8960 www.tbilaw.co.uk Find us on Twitter @tbilaw

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

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LUXE LOVES A chain reaction

Bring some Nordic drama drama into your life with a striking necklace to add instant appeal to any little black dress. Suma silver pendant by Lapponia of Finland £460 www.davidsonsthejewellers.co.uk

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NOV/DEC17

LET US HELP YOU TO MAKE YOUR COOKER THE HEART OF YOUR HOME...

Since 1931, our family business (est 1888) has supplied and installed AGA Cookers in homes throughout the North East and North Yorkshire. We are also experts in Range Cooker appliances and our unbiased advice will allow you to make the right choice for your kitchen design and budget.

Our magnificent Showroom has a dedicated display with working models and demonstration area.

We have collections of high quality Range Cookers from Lacanche, Steel, Falcon, Mercury on display and new for 2017- Wolf Cookers and Sub Zero Refrigeration.

LET US HELP YOU TO MAK THE HEART OF YOU

Since 1931, our family business (est 1888) has supplied and in the North East and North Yorkshire. We are also experts in R advice will allow you to make the right choice for

Our magnificent Showroom has a dedicated display wi We have collections of high quality Range Cookers fro Visit our Showroom today on display and new for 2017- KitchenA 1 Stirling Court, Eleventh Avenue North, Team Valley, Gateshead, NE11 Visit 0JF our Showroom

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TA K I N G I T S LO W LY

Slow food with a community message is at the heart of The Smeltery’s doorstep-picked menu at mima gallery in Middlesbrough...

Smeltery burns bright in the night.

The glowing letters which spell out its name bringing a warm glow to the otherwise stark building that this café calls home.

It is housed in the mima gallery in Middlesbrough’s Centre Square and is fast becoming a community hub, social and foodie destination which literally feeds the soul.

It mixes art, people and good food with a sociable and creative approach that is the essence of the Slow Food movement.

Indeed, the café’s very existence was commissioned by the gallery as part of its direction as a centre for ‘useful art’.

The Smeltery overlooks a neat community garden from which chefs pluck ingredients to create nourishing, healthy and inspiring plates of food. For the many, not the few.

Every Thursday finds The Smeltery joining forces with mima for a ‘Community Day’ when a free lunch (donations accepted) is served for all. This encourages people who might not have stepped into the gallery before to take a look and experience what’s on offer, food and beyond.

At communal tables you might find a barrister from the law courts opposite enjoying a bite to eat with a student or a refugee, next to retirees or university lecturers, museum volunteers or community police officers.

For Luke Harding, that sense of belonging and feeding is what The Smeltery is all about.

“The gardening project encourages people born in other countries to grow vegetables from their homelands that can’t be bought in local shops. Then, in our kitchen we cook with them – or sell them in the gallery shop.

“Mima’s new direction is geared to opening the gallery for community use. Food has an important function within this agenda.”

Luke has achieved recognition as the owner of Eaglescliffe’s Waiting Room, a vegetarian restaurant which has attracted regular

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awards and accolades, including runner-up in The Observer’s Best UK Restaurant category in at least five of the last ten years, and the Best Restaurant in The UK award from the Vegetarian Society.

His active approach to provenance, support for local produce and sustainable food is a given at The Waiting Room and The Smeltery, though his latest venture is one for the meat and fish fan, too.

So, you will see inventive and exciting dishes on the menu such as starters of home-soaked sloe gin-soused mackerel, UK truffle-infused potted Whitby crab with parsnip rosti and thistle flower cheese soufflé.

For main courses, Luke and his team actively seek out local farmers and producers for offers such as, organic Piercebridge steaks, slow-roast organic lamb with celeriac, blackberry jelly and goats’ cheese dauphinoise or the black-garlic roast hake with miso garlic broth and pickled brassica leaves.

He uses bread made by Rise social enterprise bakery, Acorn Dairy organic milk and butter, Botton Village jams and Parlour Made cheese from Sedgefield.

Says Luke: “The Smeltery’s Slow Food menu-making elevates healthy, ecological vegetables and wholefoods, alongside ethically-reared meat from carefully researched local small-scale organic and free-range farms.

“It is all beautifully cooked with bags of attention to the complete dish”.

The story of the dish on the menu is told as a whole rather than just ‘meat…with’.

All the ingredients have an equal role, like the players in an orchestra.

On Sundays there’s a selection of roasts, with Piercebridge Organics meat or poultry from Harome in North Yorkshire, as well as vegetarian casserole.

As well as giving thought to the food in The Smeltery, the surroundings play a huge part in what Luke says has become, “a delight-filled buzz”.

In the past the gallery’s café space was a soulless, cavernous space. Now, it is cosy, comfortable, bright and inspiring.

The end result of craft and making sessions was the creation of everything from salt and pepper pots, right through to the tables and chairs you sit at to enjoy lunch. (A recommendation: the Smeltery fish stew. No need to head to France for a bouillabaisse.

This herby, hearty fish-packed tomato stew is as good as it gets).

The vibe is industrial, arty and welcoming.

The moment you walk in you see dishes loaded with lovely-looking salads, bold in colour and big on aroma. Elsewhere you spy mouth-watering cakes, boulder-like scones and take a peek at the chefs beavering away in the open kitchen.

The team at mima has been working collaboratively with Middlesbrough Environment City and Investing in People and Culture (IPC) to create a community garden in the centre of Middlesbrough - a space where different groups, particularly

those from marginalised communities, can come together to socialise and learn new skills.

The new garden by the gallery is being transformed into a vibrant space filled with flowers and home-grown vegetables for The Smeltery.

The project puts the belief that art can be a tool for social change into action and it is hoped that the garden will become established as a peaceful and special place for everyone to enjoy and a site to host classes and sociable gatherings.

The Smeltery bustles by day and at night (Thursday-Saturday) cosies up as a welcoming place to enjoy a threecourse meal in the spirit of the Slow Food movement.

Other events include cinema screenings which match a movie and meal for a different social evening as well as gigs, readings and exhibition launches. www.thesmeltery.uk

NOV/DEC17

WIN

WIN

a £500 designer fashion spending spree at Psyche It’s been an exciting year at Psyche Middlesbrough as the store celebrates its 35th birthday with a polished new look and expanded designer ranges for men and women.

As the festive party season approaches Psyche is sharing the fashion passion with a £500 prize for one lucky Luxe reader.

Christmas really will come early with the chance to spend £500 online – either to get you party-ready or to indulge in some Christmas shopping for the men, women and kids in your life.

The line-up of extensive designer collections includes: Belstaff, Kenzo, Hugo Boss, Ted Baker, Paul Smith, Armani, Paul&Shark and many more.

TO ENTER >> Email your details to prizedraw@remembermedia.co.uk In the subject line write Psyche Draw.

Terms and conditions Voucher to be spent online only 1-24 December. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

BEAUTIFUL & STYLISH LIGHTING

01642 704104 The region’s largest lighting store with two floors of contemporary and traditional lighting.

NOV/DEC17

Southside Retail Park, Portrack Lane, Stockton, TS18 2TA

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SUN-SOAKED FUN

LIVING IT UP with Varsha Sehgal Varsha lives it up and laps up treats in sunny Saint Tropez...

TRAVELLED TO >> My love affair with Saint Tropez began in the summer of 2004 and some thirteen years later it continues to be my summer fix. I feel completely at home here, navigating its ochre streets and alleyways like a local, deftly haggling at the Place de Lices market and losing myself in the serenity of a provincial life, among endless lavender fields and rustic vineyards just as easily as I let my hair down dancing ‘til 4am at some lively club. Though I have visited Monaco, Cannes and Antibes before, Saint Tropez remains the jewel of the Cote d’Azur for me. It is an avant-garde village which has soaked up the artiness, hedonism, wealth and glamour that have descended upon it and yet maintained its old Provencal identity. Life here can be as laid back or alive and kicking as one wishes.

the summer, Pampelonne is lined with restaurants that are renowned for their lively club culture and super glamorous clientele. In Saint Tropez, cars are replaced by yachts and it is not unusual to see people step off one of the many that dot the seas and float straight into one of these restaurants: Bagatelle: This place has served as a venue for many personal celebrations and is always the highlight of my visit.

The vibe is electric and a lunch that begins at noon never ends before 6pm - the music dissolves away hours and time simply ceases to exist. The food is first rate, but it is definitely the atmosphere that makes it the place to be on a Saturday afternoon.

Club Les Palmiers: Next door to Bagatelle, this is somewhere you kick start the weekend on a Friday afternoon. An all-white oasis with delicious offerings fresh out of the Mediterranean, the pace here is gentler but the style stakes remain high.

Club 55: Restaurants have come and gone, but Club 55 continues to be a quintessential part of the Saint Tropez social scene. The food is simple but gratifying nonetheless, the guests being serenaded by live musicians is a lovely touch and sitting among giant tamarisk trees with one’s feet planted on sand heightens the feeling of bohemian summer days.

Shellona: The latest addition to the culinary and musical experience on the shores of Pampelonne, this is a Greek restaurant which has been very popular this year because of its more relaxed and laid back vibe.

Dinner L’Opera: This place is delightfully outrageous and the cabarets wildly colourful. Normally I would always book a table outside if alfresco dining was an option, but at L’Opera the real action happens indoors. Incredible performances, divine food and a vibe that is on fire, here dancing on tables is seen as perfectly normal behaviour! A fine example of excess pulled off tastefully - something only the French can manage.

Stay Pan Dei Palais: Inspired by the opulence and artistic elegance of royal palaces in India, the Pan Dei offers an experience of luxury and exclusivity that remains unsurpassed in Saint Tropez and its unwritten rule of accepting only returning clients makes it the most sought-after address. Rich silks, ornate woodwork and rare art recovered from temples enhance the feeling of exoticism and despite being located at the very heart of the village, it is a veritable haven of peace and discretion where the sense of authenticity is absolute.

Beach A most beautiful backdrop for the ultimate party scene of

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VIP Room: Not my favourite, but favoured by many for celebrity spotting and sometimes you can get lucky and have a really good night.

Little gems Aux Deux Freres: Not much to look at from the outside, this place creates cakes that most locals agree make it the finest patisserie in all of France! I swear by their chocolate cake - every morsel is worth the calories that find their way to my hips.

Tasted As a result of their association with greasy fast food chains, burgers invariably carry the weight of being an unhealthy food choice. Whether that is literally or figuratively, if you are a burger lover you must not value your health. I however, beg to differ and find nothing more satisfying than a hearty burger, with a good meat filling, salad and extras.

Arlos in Jesmond changed their menu over the summer to include the Mexican Chipotle Chicken Burger, which isn’t just a mouthful to say, but also a mouthful of yumminess to devour. The lean breast of chicken, avocado, sliced tomato and salad more than make up for the naughty chilli cheese, sweetcorn guacamole and mayonnaise. If life’s a balancing act, then this burger strikes a delicious one!

TEMPTED BY >> Just in time for the festivities, Prada recently rolled out its feather-trimmed satin sandals that are staggeringly beautiful - siren red and impossibly hard to ignore, they are a good reason to throw caution to the wind! After years of disappointingly dragging its fashion heel, these beauties have propelled the brand back into the seriously stylish radar!

Brasserie des Arts: The first time I visited here, I was sat at a table next to Ivana Trump and the night ended with most of us dancing on our tables. Located on the Place des Lices, this is a slightly smaller establishment, but one that packs a very powerful punch in the form of its clients, style and cuisine.

Cristina Saulini: Perhaps the tightest spot to be dining in, but most definitely the best Italian in the village and one even the local elite flock to.

Sights A coastal town which was once primarily a fishing village, Saint Tropez owes much of its glamorous reputation to the iconic Brigitte Bardot, but that is not to say it lacks a history of its own. The tall houses around the port that lend the water a burnt orange reflection are protected historical monuments. The famous Sienna bell tower belonging to the the parish church, along with the Chateau de la Moutte, the Citadel and the entire La Ponche area are all preserved sites.

Tropez every summer. Rumoured to be the best club in the world, the music here is insane and the people ridiculously beautiful.

Bars Pan Dei Palais: The poolside bar here comes alive in the evenings and because of its proximity to the port, it’s a great place for pre-dinner drinks.

White 1921: On the back of the Pan Dei is this slightly quieter bar where champagne is the popular drink and white their favourite colour - right down to the jasmines that bloom in their gardens. I like it because it has a really elegant appeal.

Clubs Les Caves du Roy: Notorious for its affection for hedonistic pleasures, this is somewhere where you get a real sense of the weight of the wealth that descends upon Saint

TRIED ON >> Baobab is no ordinary candle, it is an exceptional and timelessly elegant product which is the epitome of sophistication and a most desirable home decor item. I came across it over a decade ago during my travels and it has since been a guilty pleasure and a staple in my home. I always look forward to their seasonal collections. This winter, they have launched the Limited Edition Amara Candle, combining spicy notes of black pepper, mysterious wood and leather tweed to create a warm and deep fragrance.

THINKING ABOUT >> We’ve booked our tickets to Beamish and Alnwick Gardens’ Christmas celebrations, as well as Theatre Royal’s pantomime - I am feeling super excited for the festivities that lie ahead!

NOV/DEC17

XXXXXXXX

Forever Unique Lurex Long Sleeved Dress, £109.99, Psyche

PARTY ON ’Tis the season to sparkle and shmooze in fun and

festive evening wear. Entertain and wow in Christmassy cocktail frocks, glittering gowns and statement suits. Make a scenestealing entrance, whatever the occasion.

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NOV/DEC17

DAZZLE

Vivienne Westwood Anglomania Golden Evening Dress, £485, Fenwick Newcastle

Aspinal of London Soho Pouch, £185, Fenwick Newcastle

NOV/DEC17

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DAZZLE

Saint Tropez Green Velvet Blazer, £69.99, Psyche Green Velvet Trousers, £69.99, Psyche

Love Moschino Chevron Chain Evening Bag, £154.99, Psyche

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NOV/DEC17

CHRISTMAS GIFTS AVAIL ABLE NOW

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DAZZLE

Roisin Linnane Louise Dress, £299, Fenwick Newcastle

Aspinal of London Essential Pouch, £90, Fenwick Newcastle

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NOV/DEC17

BARBOUR | POLO RALPH LAUREN | JOSEPH RIBKOFF | PHASE EIGHT | BOSS ORANGE | JOULES | MASAI FRENCH CONNECTION | SCOTCH & SODA | FIORELLI | RADLEY | COCCINELLE |

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TED BAKER

Selected colours available in store.

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Open: Mon-Sat 9.00am - 5.30pm, Sundays 10.00am - 4.00pm 198-202 High Street, Northallerton, DL7 8LP barkers.co.uk | #barkersnorthallerton

DAZZLE

Paul Smith Lace Detail Cocktail Dress, £314.99, Psyche

Michael Kors Black Leather Chain Pouchette, £84.99, Psyche

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NOV/DEC17

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

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NOV/DEC17

Online

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DAZZLE

Joseph Ribkoff Evening Dress, £285, Barkers Northallerton

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AVAILABLE AT

Whittakers Yarm 63 High Street Yarm Stockton-On-Tees TS15 9BH Whittakers Morpeth 18 Sanderson Arcade Morpeth Northumberland NE61 1NS Whittakers White Rose Unit 61 White Rose Centre Leeds LS11 8LL

DAZZLE

Ralph Lauren Evening Dress, £210, Barkers Northallerton

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Photo graphy:

Lingerie and Swimwear Boutique

Kevin Gibson, www.kgphotography.co.uk

Hair and makeup: Kate Pymm, www.facebook.com/katepymmmakeup

Model: Melissa Steven, www.tyneteesmodels.co.uk

Assistant: Chloe Laing

Stockists: Fenwick Newcastle, www.fenwick.co.uk/stores/Newcastle Barkers Northallerton, www.barkers-northallerton.co.uk Psyche, Middlesbrough, www.psyche.co.uk

Location: Kgphotography at Bank Studio, 7 Station Road, Newburn, Newcastle, NE15 8LS

Aubade Calvin Klein Fantasie Elomi b.tempted Wacoal Panache Freya Janira 25 HIGH STREET, YARM 01642 737068 WWW.JOLIE.LIFE

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LUXE LIFE

LEWIS JAMISON Lewis Stephen Jamison, 26, is currently living in Brooklyn NY but was born in Teesside. Lewis moved to New York City to pursue a career in acting and fashion.

He’s currently involved in campaigns for Original Penguin, Lee Jeans and Banana Republic. Lewis has featured in several short-films hitting worldwide film festivals very soon.

LUXE PEOPLE >> Charles Laughton, Sean Penn, Heath Ledger, John Frusciante, Noel Gallagher and my Mam & Dad! LUXE PLACES >> For a weekend > I love coming back home and visiting York.

For a long holiday > Big Sur, California!

For a treat > Definitely Barcelona. It has a bit of everything.

LUXE RELAX >> Best food > It has to be my Nana’s Sunday roast.

Best wine > Bertani Amarone.

Favourite restaurant > My favourite little spot is Lucali’s in Brooklyn.

Downtime means > Heading to the beach and a bit of surfing.

Best telly > Narcos, Game of Thrones and Turn: Washington Spies.

Best book > My favourite all time books are Scar Tissue and Into the Wild.

Best sounds > At the minute, it has to be Lewis Del Mar - an American Experimental pop duo from New York City.

LUXE PARTY >> A memorable night out > Newcastle every time!

Perfect party > A summer garden party with plenty of sun and a tasty BBQ. Best dress > My favourite designers are Todd Snyder and John Varvatos.

Dinner date > Somewhere with a good view!

YOUR LUXE THINGS IN LIFE >> Travelling around and seeing new places, coming back home to the beautiful North East of England and hiking in the countryside and seeing old friends.

All of which are priceless!

Marie Harkness at Harkness Photography, www.harknessphotography.com

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NOV/DEC17

CELEBRATING OUR 50 YEAR HERITAGE SOFAS | BEDS | MATTRESSES

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

SLICK & SPORTY

STYLE SWIPE Addicted to athleisure Sleek, minimal and monochrome, get set for the season ahead by adding a sporty twist to your wardrobe.

The athleisure trend is here to stay so now’s the time to invest in sporty accessories that will complete your outfits well into the new season.

Lifestyle brands blur the line between sportswear and leisurewear with designers such as Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger the pioneers of this laid-back luxe look.

Trainers and track pants are now an integral part of so many different looks, so much so that you’ll see the statement sneaker in any setting - from boardroom to bar.

Whether you’re throwing on a puffer jacket to head out on errands or slipping on sneakers for a business meeting, working this trend is a breeze. I’ve styled a pair of tailored Joseph trousers, complete with an eye catching go-faster stripe, with a stunning Victoria Beckham embroidered knit.

To highlight the sporty look and feel of the trousers I’ve added a pair of Veja trainers, box fresh of course, and a pared-down Mulberry tote.

Inspired by some retro Robert Palmer vinyl, add a slick of bright lipstick to make the monochrome sing.

Catherine Newton is Head of Womenswear at Fenwick Newcastle.

>> Mulberry Maple Tote, £775 >> Victoria Beckham Raglan Knitted Turtleneck, £299 >> Joseph Cropped Scuba Jogging Trousers, £179 >> Tom Ford Translucent Illuminating Powder, £56 >> Tom Ford Lip Colour in True Coral, £40 >> Tom Ford Black Orchid 6ml EDP, £29 >> Burberry Small Nylon Pouch, £105 >> Veja Esplar Leather Trainers, £110

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NOV/DEC17

18ct gold ring, 0.72ct ruby with diamonds

12.96ct amethyst silver pendant with 18ct gold details

18ct gold Orbit stacking rings set with lilac sapphire and diamond

Saunders and Pughe Goldsmiths produce and showcase an16extensive of Celebrating years ofcollection fine handcrafted silver,precious gold andjewellery. platinum hand crafted, jewellery, using traditional tooled surface Marianne Saunders and Robert effects, beautiful graded diamonds, Pughe create beautiful rangesrare coloured gemstones, fine pearls. in silver, gold andand platinum.

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SO SASSY

Glam rocks!

Autumn / winter 2017 is dazzling with quirky cool looks, and a bit of a retro mashup. Anything goes! Inspired by Gucci on the runways, we’re in the midst of a new femininity which is great to see.

It’s exciting to have the glamour back with hair styled in deconstructed waves and fluffy curls - all worn with lots of volume for that extra bit of sass!

So dig out your heated rollers, dust off those curling tongs and think big for the must-have looks of this year’s party season. Our super cool couple show how individuality and an eclectic sense of style works a treat, and sets you apart from the crowd. Her hair is tonged away from the face taking quite large sections using a small barrel tong to give a tight but chunky curl, then brushed through to create these

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beautiful deep waves. Dressed to one side and secured into place with a small hair band to create a volumised, wavy chignon. The flat side is heavily embellished with a combination of vintage and modern brooches which look so cool together and literally just hook on to the flat base. Do take care when attaching as the pins are pretty sharp!

These can be found online and you can often get a job lot for around £10 (or check gran’s jewllery box!).

His hair is a skin fade into a sharp bowl cut which can be worn as shown for a strong fashion statement or styled back off the face into a retro quiff, very daring. So keep your cool in the winter months and rock this party season with your inner fashionista!

Michael Young and Gary Hooker run Hooker & Young, with five salons regionwide. www.hookerandyoung.co.uk

NOV/DEC17

WITH THE WINTER COLLECTION

SWAROVSKI MIDDLESBROUGH 13B, HILL STREET SHOPPING CENTRE, MIDDLESBROUGH TS1 1SU T: 01642 262173

GOOD CHEER

MOUTH MATTERS WITH ONKAR DHANOYA

<< FIRE UP THE FEEL GOOD Easy to blend, long-lasting and buttery soft, the eyeshadows inside Urban Decay’s new Naked HEAT Palette are the ones to lust-over this season. The 12 all-new shadows turn up the heat, offering a warm, earthy collection of burnt oranges, warm browns and smooth reds. £39.50 on counter.

<< LOCK IT IN Onkar Dhanoya is clinical lead and principal dentist at Honour Health, providing NHS and private dental care and skin treatments at three practices across the North East - Jesmond, Stanley and Ponteland.

Onkar, who has more than 30 years of dentistry experience, sits on the board of the Faculty of General Dental Practice and holds a fellowship from the Royal College of Surgeons (London).

PUT A HEALTHY SMILE ON YOUR CHRISTMAS LIST >> Now that the nights are getting darker and the weather is becoming chillier, the countdown to the festive season has well and truly begun.

If you’ve got big plans with colleagues, friends and family this Christmas, then you’ll naturally want to feel confident about your smile.

Many people choose to eat healthier foods and step up their exercise routine in the lead up to the ‘most wonderful time of the year’ – so why not take it up a notch and use this time to see your hygienist to check the health of your mouth?

At Honour Health, we provide comprehensive mouth hygiene treatments to help you feel your best in time for your festive celebrations.

If you’d like a super clean, fresh mouth, and if you love the feel of silky smooth teeth, then our Honour Diamond Airflow package is the ideal hygiene treatment for you.

This treatment centres around our state-of-the-art EMS Airflow hygiene system, which effectively removes heavy staining such as tea, coffee, red wine and curry. It’s also ideal for smokers, periodontal patients, dental implant patients and orthodontic patients.

The treatment firstly consists of a deep clean to remove all the tartar build-up in your mouth and to clear any debris from around your teeth and under your gums. This is followed by Airflow – an innovative technique using an advanced machine to clean and polish teeth and remove plaque and discolouration with a powerful jet of water, compressed air and fine powder particles.

As a non-invasive, deeper-reaching treatment, Airflow disrupts any plaque lurking underneath the gums and instantly removes heavy staining to reveal a brighter, fresher smile.

After Airflow, the treatment is completed with a silky smooth diamond polish. Our hygienist will then offer advice about mouth hygiene techniques to help you maintain that beautifully fresh, clean feeling for as long as possible.

Unlike teeth whitening treatments, Airflow is suitable for those who have veneers, crowns and bridges, and is ideal for those who suffer from sensitive teeth.

If you join The Honour Health Club, you’ll receive two free Honour Diamond Airflow treatments each year, as well as up to 20% off dental treatments and 10% off skin treatments.

Prep party hair the professional way with Moroccanoil’s Hydrating Mask Light. The rich, creamy and deeply nourishing formula revives lifeless, dry, fine hair in minutes, all the while keeping locks feeling lighterthan-air and super soft - leaving no greasy, heavy residue. £31.25 online or at Fenwick Newcastle.

<< SPARKLE SPRITZ Looking for a new seasonal scent that’ll take you into the New Year?

Consider Kilian’s Woman in Gold; feminine with a petal-y rose heart.

As with all of Kilian’s scents, it’s a super long-lasting fragrance, with a gleaming, golden bottle. £245 for 50ml on counter at Fenwick Newcastle.

beauty:update

Sparkle, soothe and spritz your way through the festivities << SALTY SOOTHER

The festive season can be stressful - so remember to carve out some ‘me-time’ as often as you can. Hot, post-present wrapping baths are what dreams are made of this time of year, so why not treat yourself to a scoop or two of the good stuff in the form of Neal’s Yard’s Seaweed and Arnica bath salts. Rich in minerals and infused with aromatic essential oils, they help to revive the senses for a naturally restorative bath - the perfect gift for busy mums and stressed-out busy-bodies. £15 on counter.

<< SKIN DRINK Murad’s new Hydro-Glow Aqua Peel is the secret to sensational skin this season. Get party ready with the nifty mask which gives the face a gentle peel with anti-ageing benefits in two fun steps. Exfoliate and brighten with glycolic and lactic acids before applying the mask for a powerful injection of intense moisture. Try it a day or two before a big event. £40 for four treatments on counter.

We’ll give you all the tools you need to refresh your mouth hygiene routine in time for Santa’s arrival!

Book your appointment online at www.honourhealth.co.uk or call your chosen practice below:

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

www.honourhealth.co.uk

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

46 www.luxe-magazine.co.uk

<< PLUMP IT UP Institut Esthederm’s new Intensive Hyaluronic collection is a one-to-watch if you suffer from deep dehydration as summer melts into autumn. Massage the fabulous Hyaluronic Serum (£49.50) for an instant moisture boost that lasts all day long, or slap on the Hyaluronic Mask (£31) for a skin drink treat. There’s a wrinkle-filling cream, too, if that’s your thing. www.esthederm.com

NOV/DEC17

3

<< DARE TO BARE

PARTY PROOF FOUNDATIONS TO TRY

bareMinerals’ brand new BAREPRO Performance Wear Liquid Foundation improves the appearance of skin texture over time, while blurring pores and pesky blemishes. Mineral Lock™ Long-Wear Technology blends mineral pigments with lipids naturally found in skin to lock in transfer-resistant and ridiculously natural-looking coverage in 30 shades. £29 on counter.

<< MATTE MAKER NARS’ new Velvet Matte Foundation Stick is a dream for oily-skinned gals, or those prone to a touch of mid-party shine. The all-in-one stick, with built-in, removable touch-up blender, is a handbag essential, delivering all-over coverage and on-the-go touch-ups, with flawless coverage guaranteed. £30 on counter.

<< ABSOLUTELY FLAWLESS Laura Mercier’s latest foundation delivers all the wear and all the coverage, without the weight. Flawless Fusion promises 15 hours of high-performance wear that’s sweat, oil, humidity, water and transfer-resistant, making it an all-round winner for the party season. The weightless matte finish never looks dull, flat or cake, either. One to wear if you fancy an all-nighter!

F_BAR_15040 £35 on counter. Luxe Magazine - Springvale Court - 216mm x 157mm.qxp_Layout 1 12/10/2017 14:34 Page 1

It’s hard to imagine someone you love ever needing care. We find lots of families simply aren’t informed when that time comes around.

Springvale Court’s team is always happy to provide friendly advice or help in understanding the different types of care available.

Barchester Healthcare: proud to have been providing care and reassurance for over 25 years.

Whether you need urgent care or just some help and advice, our team at Springvale Court Care Home are here to support you.

Call: 0191 2835 478

Springwell Road, Wrekenton, Gateshead, NE9 7AD

www.barchester.com

Residential Care • Dementia Care • Respite Care & Short Breaks

NOV/DEC17

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SPINE-TINGLING

Back for good As the chilliness of winter takes hold, Sam Wonfor ventures out to Walwick Hall Hotel and Spa for a massage treatment to warm the cockles

Safe to say, if I wasn’t in need of some heat-infused relaxation before setting off for a morning of five-star luxury at Walwick Hall Spa, I was certainly desperate for it by the time I arrived.

The source of my frustration was the worst possible kind – the kind for which you can blame no-one but yourself. Don’t you just hate it when you can’t at least attribute a sliver of liability to someone or something else?

My plans to arrive nicely early for an hour-long and very lovely sounding Lava Shell treatment had been thwarted by a complete failure to read my emails properly.

A 10-15 minute diversion to mitigate the temporary road closure on the bridge at Chollerford, turned into a full 55-minutes of twisty roads, blind summits and a very sweary in-car monologue.

I can only apologise to any animals who were offended.

So, there was to be no time to try out the steam room, hot tub or pavilion pool, which boasts views over the Tyne Valley. I mean, just how hard is it to read an email properly…?

Using the shells as the chief massage tool the heat increases in intensity as the treatment goes on Thankfully on arrival at the hotel, which is nestled among 100 acres of classic Northumberland countryside just six miles north of Hexham, a swift check-in and quick transfer to the double-bedded treatment room ensured it wasn’t long before my blood pressure returned to manageable levels.

My therapist was Mel, who was more than happy to talk a

Lava Shell newbie – namely me – through the full body treatment, which uses self-heating and 100% recycled Tiger Clam shells from the Philippines to offer what sounded like a pretty special 60 minutes.

We agreed that the relaxation oil – Kokolokahi Serenity to give it its Sunday name – would be the one for me. And with that, I was left to get down to my pants, climb into one of the heated and very sumptuous beds and feel snuggly smug while listening to the beating rain outside.

In a nutshell – or one of the Tiger Clam variety if you prefer – the treatment offers a similar sensation to its ever-popular hot stones cousin.

Using the shells as the chief massage tool, the heat, which increases in intensity as the treatment goes on, serves to deepen the relaxation benefits and eases any muscle and joint pain into the bargain.

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It’s a truly gorgeous sensation – particularly on the soles of the feet on this occasion – as the almost-too-hot and shiny smooth shells are used to impart relaxation in effective fashion.

Truth be told, there are large chunks of the massage which I struggle to remember clearly, which perfectly demonstrates the neck-to-toe chill-out power of this treatment.

And, once I’d woken up sufficiently enough to drive, I even managed to get all the way home without cursing myself once.

• The Lava Shell Full Body Massage at Walwick Hall Spa, costs £65 for 60 minutes. There is also a 30-minute back massage option, which costs £40. www.walwickhall.com

NOV/DEC17

LUXE LIFE

KAY MURRAY

Boro-born Kay Murray swapped Middlesbrough for a life on the golden sands of Miami, but loves to travel home for all things MFC. She’s the on-screen host at beINSPORTS USA, a MFC Foundation Ambassador and the FIFA Interactive World Cup host. We find out about her luxe things in life…

LUXE PEOPLE >> My Granpop, Sir Bobby Robson and Gazza were my childhood heroes. I also loved Helena Christensen, so you know, just the usual mix of people!

My favourite people are my mum, my man and my best friends.

LUXE PLACES >> for a weekend > Anywhere in Italy, Key

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West (and the Keys in general) in Florida nurtures my soul, but then so too does Ibiza - having said that Ibiza is not so kind to my bank account!

For a long holiday > The South of France.

I visited Monaco and the surrounding region a few years back and was blown away by how beautiful it is. Now I totally get the hype.

For a treat > Las Vegas – anything goes!

LUXE RELAX >> Best food > Italian, Indian, Japanese – and anything that comes with mashed potato and gravy.

Best wine > Pinot noir (or any of the bubbly kind!)

Favourite restaurant > Hakkasan.

Perfect weekend > A trip back to Middlesbrough to see a victorious game, my family and all of my oldest friends.

Downtime means > Yoga, beach walks or snuggling up on the sofa binge-watching a new series. Running also clears my mind.

Best telly > GOT, The Office (UK or US), Mad Men and US show The Bachelor/ Bachelorette, which is a guilty pleasure of mine.

Best book > Captain Corelli’s Mandolin by Louis De Bernieres.

Best sounds > There are so many but I’m partial to a bit of disco, old-school R&B and chill out.

for the fashion, the nightlife and the culinary scene.

Favourite shop > Saks Fifth Avenue – lots of pretty things all under one roof.

Luxe retail treat > I felt like Carrie Bradshaw when I purchased my Jimmy Choo heels.

Best buy > My trusty LV Neverfull – which I can easily fill by the way!

LUXE SHOP >> Best shopping city > Milan, it’s not Italy’s prettiest city but it’s definitely the coolest

YOUR LUXE THINGS IN LIFE >> My bed, my health, my job, MFC and any kind of bright workout leggings!

LUXE PARTY >> A memorable night out > Milan’s Brera District with the girls.

Perfect party > I think that wedding parties are always the best fun. It’s one of the only times when different generations all come together and everyone is happy.

Best dress > The Juanjo Oliva haute couture dress I had made for me to host the 2011 Ballon d’Or. Dinner date > Catching up with my mum over a parmo and a bottle of wine at Central Park, Middlesbrough.

NOV/DEC17

Luxury Watches are carefully made to last forever, view our stunning collection of pre-owned Rolex watches, we buy and sell.

Please call in to discuss your requirements.

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NOV/DEC17

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RUGBY RETURN

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NOV/DEC17

RUGBY RETURN

His tan may be fading but Toby Flood’s cellar still holds the best memories of his three years spent playing rugby for Toulouse.

As stunning as life was in the cosmopolitan French city they call La Ville Rose, there was something compelling about the open space of Northumberland that drew Toby back, and he made his return to the region with Newcastle Falcons this summer.

He returns with the best of France; shares in a wine business, an ever-growing knowledge of vinviculture and a determination to encourage people to ‘drink less, drink better’.

A glass of Bordeaux is a post-match pleasure but it’s a case of coffee in the cup when we meet at Kingston Park Stadium the home of the Falcons - catching up after a morning on the training pitch. Rugby kit is swapped for downtime gear and conversation inevitably leads to the joys of the great British weather.

“It’s a tough old gag isn’t it?” he laughs.

“It’s definitely a bit colder. I’ve lost my tan,

right time, returning home was always part of the plan.

It is certainly a home-coming. Born in Surrey, brought up in Morpeth and a product of the Falcons Academy, this area forms much of what the fly half calls ‘home’.

“My upbringing was pretty rural,” he recalls.

“I grew up in a place near Morpeth. It was one of those where the door was open for me when I got back from school and I was kicked out to go take care of myself and then the food would be on the table at half past seven.

“I spent a lot of my time outdoors. I didn’t have a computer, I remember desperately going round my mates houses and wanting to play on their computer games, but they didn’t want to - it was normal to them - they wanted to go out and play cricket or football.

“It was just totally outdoorsy and we spent a huge amount of time doing as much as we could outside.

“I fell into sport on the back of that. It was just a natural progression - I was out

is something that has developed in his game plan over the years and is not necessarily part of his personality, he explains.

“It’s kind of a chicken and egg scenario; I’m not too sure what came first,” says Toby.

“I don’t know if I was like that as a child so therefore I naturally progressed to play that position, or whether I just became accustomed to it through my rugby role.

“My feeling would be the latter. I think the more experience you have with rugby, the more decisions you have to make and the more people look to you. I think that has probably transferred to my personal life more than I’m socially aware of.”

Toby was playing in Newcastle at the time of his first international call up - in the fold for the autumn internationals in 2006. It was a proud moment in his playing career, then going on to pick up 60 caps for England.

“My first call up was against Argentina. I played a couple of guest test matches at that time, then I came back and played the Six Nations,” he explains.

F LY G U Y

Life is all about rugby and robust red wines for Newcastle Falcons’ fly half Toby Flood. Not necessarily at the same time. He’s brought a passion for the wine business back to Newcastle after three seasons with Toulouse. He tells Elysia Agnew how it feels to be back on home turf but it’s nice to be back. It’s nice to see some familiar faces around the place.

Making the move from Toulouse was a tricky one, but came at the right time,” says Toby.

Known to locals as La Ville Rose (or The Pink City) thanks to its beautiful pink stone buildings, it’s a cosmopolitan haven of market squares and cobbled streets awash with chic city culture, inspiring architecture and authentic cuisine. So after three years of warm weather and luxury living in the south of France, just what made the 32-year-old, wife Sally and son Rafe return to his hometown club in the North East?

“Quite a few things really,” he says.

“After a couple of years in France, we were umm’ing and ahh’ing at whether we wanted to stay or go.

“The lifestyle over there was great, but the rugby could have been better.

“I just wanted to make the right decision and get an idea of what I wanted to do for my last or second last contract in the game.

I had long conversations with Director of Rugby Dean Richards and Head Coach Dave Walder and probably the biggest thing for me was the direction and desire of this club.”

With a strong support network, good coaches and fond memories of growing up in the area, if an opportunity came up at the

NOV/DEC17

kicking a ball around and that fell into rugby and football. I had a very sport-filled childhood because ultimately I was out on my own playing all of the time.”

Toby was a product of the Falcons Academy.

With inspiring school coaches, being part of successful university teams and picking up valuable experience at club level, he found himself part of the Falcons first team at the age of 19.

“It was all thanks to a chap called John Fletcher, the Academy Coach at the time, and a guy called John Davies who was my school coach.

“I played my debut at the Falcons through no fault or ability of my own. It was mainly due to the fact that we had nobody left on the field,” he laughs.

The Newcastle Falcons had a promising season last term, finishing eighth in the league - the highest position they’ve finished in a long time.

“There’s going to be a level of readjustment for the squad,” says Toby.

“But we’re no longer going to be flying under the radar. We need to keep doing what we’re doing and keep going with those positive situations we find ourselves in,” he adds.

As fly half, Toby is the chief decision maker in the game. But being the dominant figure

“The decision to leave Newcastle and move down to Leicester was a really good one for me at the time as it pushed me to the forefront of decision making and a cut throat part of English rugby.”

Let’s talk France. Luxury living in Toulouse, well regarded rugby, vineyards and winter ski trips. The lifestyle was great - something he could get used to - but it was the quality of the rugby that brought him back home.

“We went to Toulouse on the back of going to what was, and still is statistically the biggest club in France and Europe, having won four Heineken Cup trophies.

“It was a timing thing really. It was all about the experience - we were never quite sure whether it was the right decision or not, but I think sometimes you’ve just got to jump in. >>

The lifestyle over in France was great, but the rugby could’ve been better. I just wanted to make the right decision

www.luxe-magazine.co.uk 53

RUGBY RETURN

One for the Christmas list >> 20h33 is a business with a simple concept: ‘having fun with friends and family over our pleasure and passion for wine’.

After living in France for a number of years and spending many an afternoon deep in the vineyards, Toby joined friends Jean-Benoit and Vincent to be part of an exciting wine business.

This Christmas, 20h33 is offering a selection box with a difference – so if you’re at a loose end for Christmas presents, you can work with the guys to put together a beautiful box of wine for a loved one.

“There’s a big campaign now about drinking better – not drinking more but drinking better,” Toby says.

“We’re not saying buy a £500 bottle of wine, we’re saying buy wine for £15/£20 and enjoy the experience.”

He hopes to encourage people to give the gift of a good glass for Christmas!

“You know that person that you just can’t buy a gift for?” says Toby.

“You’ve gone through years of socks and underwear and it’s just like, what do you get them next?

“This is what I’m going for this year! It’s great – especially if you’re round their house. Here’s your present; three hours later, you’ve gone through the Christmas box with them,” he laughs.

He is trying to encourage people of his own age to buy wine by the case, a case indeed of quality not quantity.

“It’s been good fun and hey, it’s a start – and something different to rugby, so it’s a nice thing to be involved in.” www.20h33.co.uk

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“We may never have had the opportunity to go and work abroad again. So a large part of it was that we just wanted to go and experience some different culture.

“We loved our three years out there.

Lifestyle-wise, it was incredible. The rugby was fairly frustrating, just because of the level of coaching and fitness - it just isn’t what it is over here. But the time we spent socialising and the weather and what have you, we loved it. You sort of forget about the ability to just pack up and go skiing for the weekend in the winter months.

We could get used to that.”

Toby arrived in France with no real knowledge of the language. A bit of studying here and there, but a far cry from tackling the tenses and the speed of conversation.

“I just tried to take it day by day, and by the back end of three years I understood absolutely everything,” he says.

As you become accustomed to a new culture, a new language and a new way of life, it might be that hobbies change too.

Toby became quite the wine man during his time in the south of France. In his new environment, downtime often meant swapping rugby fields for grape-bearing vines. Something he has since become heavily involved in. Very much a luxe passion of his.

“A friend of mine in Bordeaux decided

to go into the wine business,” he says.

“He now runs a company called 20h33 - 33 being the postcode for Bordeaux, so it mainly concentrates on the local stuff.

“I had an interest in wine before I went to France. I had a little cellar at home in the UK - nothing fantastic - but when I went to France it just really took off and I got a feel for the industry.

“I suppose the knowledge that they have over there comparatively is stark. They don’t understand when we ask for a merlot for example, because they can’t produce the same texture and quality every year, it all just depends on the weather for them.

It’s a bit like farming over here. They see it as a crop.

“So I was interested in the whole process and then the opportunity evolved for me to get involved.

“We’re trying to get it up and running in the UK now. One of our players, Rob Vickers is having his testimony this year so we’re going to run a couple of casing events.”

Any more side projects up your sleeve, Toby? Both of his grandfathers were actors, one of them featuring in television drama, The Ratcatchers and the other a German actor who appeared in The Guns of Navarone. His grandmother was also in the industry. Should we expect a stage appearance soon?

“Absolutely not,” he laughs.

“It’s not for me. Both my grandfathers were actors, my grandmother was an actress and my parents both worked in theatre all of their lives, but luckily my sister and I didn’t get bitten by the bug. I suppose there is a level of performing in my role – so there is a bit of that but it’s not something I’m leaning towards in retirement.

“But in all seriousness, it’s nice to be back in the North East for that reason. I do enjoy it and Newcastle is a bit of an outpost in that sense; you’ve got all the theatres, you’ve got touring companies and you’ve got the West End productions coming up here as well.

“So it’s probably increased my desire to go back out there and see stuff having three years’ sabbatical from it.”

Settling back in the North East, it’s a timely move for a traditional, family Christmas.

But after spending the past three years in the beautiful mountains on the borders of France, just what does being back home at Christmas mean to the rugby star? And will there be any French influence?

“The beauty of having Christmas in France was that we got a bit of time off. So last year we went to a chalet up in the Pyrénées and had all the family there. My parents, my wife’s parents, our sisters, brothers, the kids - everyone. It was a classic family Christmas.

“So this year, sadly, I don’t think we’re going to better that. Everyone is going to stay put and it’ll be a quiet one. We play on the 23rd so we’ll get a couple of days off but will be back in on Boxing Day. “You have to be a little bit careful at this time. What you don’t do is have a huge night out on Christmas Eve and eat yourself to death on Christmas Day because ultimately you’ll be training on Boxing Day and you’re going to be paying for it. So you have to be a bit modified in what you do – but it’s always great to spend a bit of time with the family.” www.newcastlefalcons.co.uk

It’s definitely a bit colder, but it’s nice to be back and to see some familiar faces around the place!

Sporting life A DAY IN THE LIFE >> Saturday we play a game – so it’s get up, have breakfast, try and relax and take your mind off the game. Then it’s lunch, arrive at the stadium, play and then post match stuff. On Sundays we’re usually off.

Monday is about getting things moving again. Tuesday is a big day – weights in the morning, lunch, back out again for a bigger session in the afternoon, more contact and a lot more physical based training. Wednesday would normally be our day off, so the guys might come in and do maintenance stuff. Thursday mornings are for weights followed by a rugby session - running out ready for the weekend, prepping ourselves, high speed, velocity stuff. And then Friday is normally a very relaxed day - then you’re waking up in the morning and back to the rugby again.

MOST MEMORABLE RUGBY MOMENT >> Probably losing in the World Cup Final.

Those two weeks prior to the game were memorable; winning the quarter final, winning the semi final and playing in the final.

LUXE PEOPLE >> It’s always family. My wife Sally and my son Rafe. And then obviously my sister, mum, dad and close family.

LUXE PLACES >> For a weekend > I like the mountains both in the summer and in the winter. Bolquère in the Pyrénées - that would be quite nice.

A long holiday > I like Asia so probably Vietnam or Cambodia.

LUXE RELAX >> Best food > Something simple like a really good chicken salad with everything in it - roast peppers and a bit of feta.

Best wine > That’s a tough one. I would say Château Carteau Saint-Émilion.

Favourite restaurant > Koffmann’s in London. It has shut down now but that was my favourite restaurant because we had two or three really memorable meals there.

Perfect weekend > A good win at Kingston Park, back home to see the family and a nice pub Sunday lunch.

Best telly > Game of Thrones is up there.

It’s a tough one because there’s so much good TV at the moment. I’ve just started watching The Walking Dead again. You’ve got to have a good stomach for it though, it’s really gritty but really good.

Best book > I quite like a chap called Conn Iggulden - I enjoyed the Genghis Khan series that he wrote. I also like Hilary Mantel – Bringing Up the Bodies and that sort of stuff.

Best sounds > I should probably say childhood-defining artists like Oasis and Blur, but I’m going to go with the Arctic Monkeys.

NOV/DEC17

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WELCOME!

Time to say hello to a new, luxey furry friend

with Nina Robinson

>> White Stuff, cat fleecy onesie, £24, www.whitestuff.com

N i n a : lo v e s

I have big news! Huge in fact! Finally, after MONTHS of begging, crying, stamping and bribing, I have broken down mum and dad and convinced them to let me have my very own cat! I knew my powers of persuasion would win through eventually…

So, I guess Colette (that’s her name) can be the first and only Luxe Puss! It would be a very happy turn of events for her because her life didn’t start out so well. She was abandoned on the streets when her original owners went on holiday – how could they??? But thankfully the lovely people at Willows Cat Adoption Centre in South Shields rescued her and now she’s mine she will live forever more in the lap of luxury!

Her arrival came as a total surprise to me. Mum and dad had been secretly scheming and brought her home while I was at my friend Nieve’s house for tea (we had McDonald’s as a Friday treat). As if that wasn’t good enough, when I got home and opened the door to the living room her beautiful green eyes were staring up at me from her perch on the sofa! I couldn’t believe my eyes! I cried for ages with happiness and even had to have a little sit down in the bathroom because I got so excited I felt sick!

The next day I was recovered enough to go wild in the aisles at Pets at Home! I chose Colette lots of fun toys, a fluffy igloo bed and a climbing frame. Her favourite toy is something I call my bribing stick, it’s stick with a feather and a squeaky mouse on the end and when I wave it around she comes running and I can get her to do what I want. Come to think of it, I’ll just use this on mum and dad the next time I want something else new.

Nina x

The Simply Small Company >> In other lovely news this month, our fab friend Natalie has opened her new children’s boutique in the Grainger Market, Newcastle. We are so proud of her and look forward to spending many hours (and pounds) at the Simply Small Company. Nat’s own little luxes Samuel and Sally always wear gorgeous things and now the rest of us mini folk can benefit from her styling.

Here are two of my favourite things from her new collection…how cute?!

Cute kit for cool cats >> >> Paperchase, Hello Kitty Fluffy Pen, £4, www.paperchase.co.uk >> Oliver Bonas, Saskia Cat Mug, £12, www.oliverbonas.com

>> Unicorn sleep suit onesie, £23.99 and hand crocheted booties, £16.50.

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>> Cath Kidston, Single Egg Cup, £5, www.cathkidston.com

NOV/DEC17

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www.luxe-magazine.co.uk 57

HOUND OUT

POSH POOCHES with Alfie, helped by Elysia Agnew

Not just for Christmas The fires are roaring, the nights are getting darker, the humans are cosying up indoors and the walks are getting shorter.

Yes, it’s getting cooler out and everyone’s getting excited for all the Christmas fun - but there’s got to be something in it for us pooches? What happened to the long walks in the hills, the brisk strolls along the beach?

Four-legged friends - have no fear. Alfie’s got you covered this season with winter warmers for walks, festive fashion accessories and cosy dog-friendly getaways.

Pack up your poochy suitcase for a beautiful beachfront holiday in Alnmouth, where no matter the weather, dogs are welcomed in with wide open arms. From pub lunches and strolls along the sand dunes, it’s the perfect spot for all the family to enjoy the fresh sea air.

We’re not falling short of celeb canines this season either. Alfie chats to a presenter pooch, Ted the pug - you may have heard stories from his owner Steve on the Metro Radio breakfast show.

Have a wonderful Christmas and a very happy New Year! And remember - we’re not just for Christmas - but we do enjoy getting spoiled!

Alfie, your luxe pooch x

Alfie loves:

Whether you’ve got a pup on your Christmas list or you already have a loyal canine friend, our posh pooch has put together a luxe Christmas gift guide to shower your pet with love and presents this season.

HOUND HOODIES A Christmas hoodie is the perfect way to get your pet in the festive groove, £6.99; www.millbryhill.co.uk

TANGLED UP IN YOU Stylish slogan sweatshirts inspired by rescue dogs.

Proceeds go directly to charity, £50; www.wildatheartfoundation.org

STAR OF THE SHOW This starry bow tie is perfect for hounds wanting to add some festive cheer to their winter wardrobe. £15.95 www.teddymaximus.com

Luxe Pooch Q&A favourite! I love to feel the sand beneath my paws and breathe the fresh, crisp Northumberland sea air through my lungs.

If I’m not on the beach, I like running through the windy paths in Chopwell Woods. It’s a sheltered place for me when it gets too hot. I’m not a big fan of the heat.

Hi, I’m Ted the pug. You might have heard my owner Steve talking about me on Metro Radio in the morning. I’m short, shiny and furry with a good sense of humour. I love cheese, sausages, and sleeping. I dislike the rain and balloons!

LUXE WALKS >> It has to be the beach. Low Newton is my

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POOCH’S PERFECT DAY OUT >> A trip to the Lake District is a real treat for me, especially if it’s Keswick. There are so many places I can visit, including the shops.

My dad can have a quick pint in most of the pubs and I can chill out next to him.

DOGGY DOWNTIME >> I do enjoy chilling out on the sofa, sat on my blanket watching Super Vet or House of Cards. My favourite character is Frank Underwood, I’d love to be his pet dog in the White House.

St Valery Boutique B&B, Alnmouth >> A perfect poochy getaway for the winter months and beyond…

We’ve gone and found a little gem in the heart of Alnmouth - thanks to our Luxe pooch. As soon as you step inside, you’ve got a friend in the team at St Valery B&B (lovely Harvey and his house dog Roxy).

They make you feel very special as they welcome you into their home - a stunning Victorian house with high ceilings, original mosaic fireplaces and location-inspired artworks. The place is beautifully decorated. It’s elegant, light and it’s homely. Whether you want to cosy up in your room with your pooch, enjoy the communal dining room with roaring fire or take in the fresh sea air on the terrace the place is yours to roam and you’ll be greeted with smiling faces. The bedrooms are plush and pretty and come equipped with everything you’d wish for for a luxe weekend away. From Elemis bathroom essentials and fluffy bathrobes, to pillow

HOUND HABITS >> Where do I start? I love stealing food from plates and I enjoy grabbing hair clips and cotton buds. I will run around the house until I have a treat to release them. Works every time!

PUPPY PAMPER >> My mam gives me a little trim once a week and cleans out my folds in my crinkly face.

As I’m a pug, its important that this happens to keep me clean.

DOG’S BEST FRIEND >> It’s my mam. I count down the hours until she gets home from work. My curly tail wiggles like crazy as the front door opens and I see her. I can’t contain my excitement and make a strange squealing noise until she picks me up. I’m so demanding!

sprays, eye creams and homemade doggy treats with a little love note from Roxy.

Humans don’t miss out in the treats department either - with a sweet pot in every room for a post-walk sugar fix, an honesty bar with every tipple you could ever wish for and a spot of homemade cake to kickstart the afternoon.

St Benedict is our home for the weekend.

A bright and airy ground floor room with the aromas of Neom candles zipping through the air. Delightful. It’s the perfect cosy yet contemporary hideaway for a bit of post-pub lunch downtime and somewhere to put your feet (and paws) up after a day of roaming through the sand dunes.

Alfie can’t wait to come back. He’s barking mad about this sweet little spot on the streets of Alnmouth - and he can’t wait to catch up with Roxy again soon! www.stvaleryalnmouth.com

FONDEST DOGGY MEMORY >> I’m very lucky to have had lots of nice things happen to me. Not long after I was born, my dad had me blessed in Jesmond Dene by a vicar! I was joined by lots of other animals of all shapes and sizes, including an armadillo.

I’ve also presented my own show on the radio and starred in an advert for a dog friendly hotel in Newcastle.

PUPPY A-LISTER >> I admire Doug the Pug. What he has achieved in a few years is incredible!

Probably the most famous pug - possibly dog - in the world.

While on holiday in America, my dad even diverted his arrangements to meet Doug at a book signing! He waited over two hours, along with hundreds of other humans to meet him.

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

@TheLuxeMagazine or @LuxeyPooch

NOV/DEC17

© 2017 intu properties plc

Rest easy From 13 November we’re open 9am – 10pm weekdays Search intu Christmas

NOV/DEC17

www.luxe-magazine.co.uk 59

RIDE OUT

ON THE HOOF with Deborah Smith Deborah wraps up in some style for winter - bling optional!

As usual the summer has been all too short-lived and with woolly coats already in place at the beginning of September, I’m now clipping Oli and Strider for the third time already!

Most outdoor competition is finishing off for the season and autumn/winter rugs are being unpacked and aired.

It’s a beautiful time of the year to be out riding; for me the countryside in northern England and the Scottish borders comes into its own in the autumn… definitely a ‘season of mists and mellow fruitfulness’ to quote John Keats.

And with all the byways, ancient tracks and bridleways criss-crossing the landscape up through the borders into Scotland and out to the coast, there’s no better way to see the vibrant autumn colours than from the back of a horse.

So with the frosty mornings and fresh northern winds beckoning, it’s timely to check out what’s new in the horse and rider wardrobe for Autumn / Winter 17?

For those of us who like to wear tweed show jackets there is always much less choice around compared with the navy/ black options.

But the ultra smart Flint show jacket from Cavallo, below, (£298.00 www.equiport. co.uk ) is set to be one of the must-have items for anyone who wants to look and

perform at their best whether showing or competing.

Made from a high-quality wool blend, this fitted jacket features a classic check tweed pattern with neat pewter buttons.

The elastic lining makes it supremely

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comfortable to ride in and it has the added benefit of being machine washable - always a winner in my book.

For everyday wear, I’m going for the Pikeur Emma quilted jacket in this season’s gorgeous apricot colour.

Pikeur clothing always lasts and lasts, so there is never any legitimate reason to buy a new jacket each season, but with so much to covet from each collection, it’s hard not to!

I’m also a big fan of Pikeur winter breeches so from this season’s collection I’ve chosen the Maxime corkshell winter breeches with a fleecy lining, right, (£166.63 www.amirashop.co.uk). Wind and water resistant and with excellent grip, they are just perfect for those cold days.

For the horses, I have my eye on the new FALPRO Doncaster Medium Stable Rug. With a smart and tough twill outer layer, 200g fill and a fleece neck collar, this rug is sure to keep your horse warm and snug, while the liner loops allow you to add in rug liners as those winter temperatures drop.

And for those of you with ‘Houdini’ horses that always manage to escape from their rugs and you just find a trashed pile in the stable in the mornings, FALPRO rugs have a superior fit with a secure front closure and their ‘matrix’ cross surcingle system on the inside of the rug eliminating the need for gussets.

The surcingle’s left and right sides work in

conjunction with each other and together with secure front closures keep the rug in place.

RIDING LIFE >> Now it’s autumn, the big indoor shows are starting in the run up to Christmas culminating with Olympia, the London International Horse Show in December.

The Horse of the year Show (HOYS) in Birmingham in October was the finale to the showing year and the climax to the domestic show jumping year.

The show has been running since 1949 and is a highlight in the equestrian calendar with show jumping, shire horses, mountain and moorland pony showing, side saddle, scurry driving, and much, much more.

Although I mainly talk about eventing, show jumping and dressage in my column, there are eight equestrian disciplines recognised by the FEI (the international governing body of equestrian sports): Dressage Combined driving Endurance Eventing Para-equestrian Reining

Show jumping Equestrian vaulting In the UK there are also organisations for horseball, polocrosse and mounted games.

There are an estimated 2.7 million riders in the UK and in my role as a non-executive director for the British Equestrian Federation, I see first-hand how much Lottery funding, via UK Sport, helps develop elite riders for future success in the three Olympic and one Paralympic disciplines of Jumping, Dressage, Eventing and Para-Equestrian Dressage.

Additional Lottery funding via Sport England supports non-Olympic disciplines excel programmes, riding clubs and organisations in encouraging people to take up equestrian sports, supporting volunteers and helping to develop riding facilities.

In September The British Equestrian Federation announced the launch of the BEF Youth Pathway Coaching Programme, supported with funding from Sport England.

This new programme, created in collaboration with the equestrian Olympic and Paralympic disciplines, is designed to develop coaches by giving them more insight into athlete development that nurtures potential from a young age.

We have so many talented young riders here in the North, so it’s great to see this level of investment on the next generation of potential medal winners so we can continue our record as a leading equestrian nation.

HEAD-TURNER >> If you want truly luxe headgear, how about this stunning Samshield Shadowmatt hat?

With rose gold crystal Swarovski crystal fabric, it is unashamedly ‘bling’, but it conforms to the VG1 and ASTM 1163 standards, so you can wear it in competition.

Like all Samshield hats, the technology comes from motorcycle helmets so you know it’s a well designed and quality product.

And a snip at £573.33 at www.equiport.co.uk

NOV/DEC17

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

www.oakstonedesigns.co.uk

01325 366 948

Follow us on Pinterest and Instagram @OakstoneDesigns

LUXE LOVES

LUXE LOVES Stocking up Fill-me festive: touchy-feely velvet vessels for those lovely Christmas morning treats. £54 each. www.fermliving.com

62 www.luxe-magazine.co.uk

NOV/DEC17

BRIGHT&BEAUTIFUL

CANADA COOL >> Villa Erable No neighbours for miles at this architect-designed property in the wilds of Quebec.

But settle in to the sheepskins to take in jaw-dropping views of the natural wilderness on your doorstep.

Spend your time in the indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis and sauna, or make the wine cellar your best friend.

Lovers of design will be in their element with décor that mixes the rustic appeal of wood and leather with sleek touches of concrete and stainless steel, creating a stylish, contemporary log cabin with much luxe.

SNOWY ESCAPES If you hanker after hunkering down with cosy fires and snowy skies as your winter backdrop, sneak off to these dreamy getaways...

Apartments from www.lecollectionist.com

MOUNTAIN MOODY >> Apartment Taiga Stunning views of Mont Blanc are the stuff of dreams when you’re cosy on and off the slopes. A stylish apartment in this neat hideaway offers up some wintry magic in the sweet French town of Megeve. An apartment with a chi-chi enclosed garden to chill beneath those blue skies. Ramp up the festive fever with a visit to one of the last reindeer breeding grounds, with its breathtaking view of the Mont Blanc massif. Or, you can join a midnight escape to the snowy slopes on a starlight expedition.

64 www.luxe-magazine.co.uk

NOV/DEC17

CITY OF LOVE

AND RELAX Hip hotels with Debrah Dhugga LA LA love in the Hollywood hills also great cafes to sit back and people watch – a Hollywood movie in itself!

In the depths of our winter, Debrah’s here with a sunshine hit as glam as it gets in glossy Beverly Hills

HOTEL >> When in Los Angeles? You know me, head for a hotel with history – and they don’t come more A-lister than the Beverly Hills Hotel.

Hollywood glamour to the max – it’s got to be done.

For over a century, the Beverly Hills Hotel has come to signify much more than five-star luxury.

Elizabeth Taylor spent SIX of her eight honeymoons here for goodness sake!

It is an institution in itself – for Sinatra’s Rat Pack shenanigans and Lauren Bacall’s poolside lounging. Just being here lets you soak up some of that movie star glamour.

When the place opened its doors in 1912, the City of Beverly Hills hadn’t even been established, so it’s fair to say that Beverly

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Hills was literally built around the hotel.

The hotel’s historic bungalows have become brands within themselves – so of course I chose to stay in one of these beauties.

WHO GOES THERE? >> Well, anyone who is anyone. The Beverly Hills Hotel has welcomed generations of guests and is affectionately referred to as the community’s ‘living room’.

The beloved Polo Lounge is still the epicenter of power dining in LA, and the vintage Fountain Coffee Room is a charming social hub.

The hotel is the preferred ‘home away from home’ for Hollywood royalty and industry icons. From one-time neighbor Charlie Chaplin frequenting the hotel almost daily to Gregory Peck filming poolside, the colourful anecdotes surrounding the hotel’s legendary

guests are endless. Today, Beverly Hills Hotel remains as relevant as ever, still attracting moguls and A-listers from around the globe. No cameras PLEASE.

WHERE TO EAT >> I ate in the world-renowned Polo Lounge, which celebrated its 76-year anniversary this summer. The place really connects with Hollywood’s earliest days and Golden Era, but remains the place to ‘see and be seen’ in LA. Be sure to request Charlie Chaplin’s favorite booth, Marilyn Monroe’s table of choice, and the signature McCarthy Salad.

It is fabulous, for something more relaxing and informal there’s also a pool side café.

SHOPPING IS A GIVEN! >> Located just minutes from the hotel is one of the world’s most celebrated shopping destinations, Rodeo Drive, so of course myself and my credit card were in heaven.

It is of course home to many of the most exclusive and expensive retail stores for women and men, including Chanel, Giorgio Armani, Prada and Louis Vuitton. There are

BEDROOMS >> In 2012 all 208 guestrooms and suites in the main house were updated by Tihany Designs. Designed to reflect modern Californian style, they’re all about luxurious materials such as soft leather and rich mohair in shades of cream and taupe, accented with the hotel’s signature pink and green colors.

Bungalows include colour palettes inspired by warm Southern California tones, such as rust, pinks, greens and golds. Key finishes include decorative wallpapers, custom embroidered panels, hand-stencilled patterns, intricate floor inlays, and silk accent pillows.

Having spent six of her eight honeymoons here, Bungalow 5’s thoughtful new design incorporates aspects of Elizabeth Taylor’s life and includes whimsical elements reflecting her English roots and most celebrated movie roles. It was recently redesigned as part of an ongoing bungalow restoration programme overseen by Champalimaud Design. So (think Cleopatra and National Velvet), you’ll see a horse-head lamp base and an Egyptian-patterned cabinet, as well as the serious amounts of glamour and romance you’d expect from this screen siren.

There is much blue too. And gold. And sparkles.

The spacious bungalow offers up to three bedrooms, and features a full kitchen and fireplace. But the most special feature is its private pool and large outdoor patio with a Jacuzzi and spacious sitting area.

SPA >> I enjoyed the most wonderful experience at the Hotel Bel-Air Spa, the world’s most extravagant ingredients combine with the latest technological advances in a restorative oasis featuring seven treatment rooms, a private nail suite housing three manicure / pedicure stations, and a Relaxation Lounge. The jewel of Hotel-Bel Air Spa is The Enclave, a 570+ square foot sprawling private suite, which includes a shower, bathtub and shaded patio with soothing waterfall and outdoor seating.

The finest products from premier brands are featured, including Swiss skincare expert Valmont and London-based beauty wellness brand The Organic Pharmacy.

I enjoyed a Rose Renewal Body Treatment, the ritual begins with the uplifting scents of rose, jasmine, ylang ylang and rose hip to deeply relax the mind and body, followed by an indulgent body scrub infused with honey, rose petals, salt and sugar to exfoliate skin and revitalize your senses. It finishes with a soothing and deeply nourishing massage performed with an antioxidant-rich body lotion to leave the whole body revitalized and renewed. I went to heaven and back.

To lie by the pool and just take it all in is a haven away for the madding crowd Everyone should do it once!!

Fly Newcastle to London and then over to LA – BA do a great connecting flight

NOV/DEC17

CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS IN LUXURY AT WALWICK HALL. STAY WITH US AND GET INTO THE CHRISTMAS SWING WITH ONE OF OUR FESTIVE PACKAGES. EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY OF OUR DECORATED HALL AS WELL AS THE LUXURY AND RELAXATION THAT COMES AS STANDARD. FESTIVE STAY SAVER FROM £215.00 PER ROOM PER NIGHT, INCLUDING DINNER, BED & BREAKFAST. TWIXMAS 3-NIGHT BREAK FROM £675.00 PER ROOM INCLUDING NIGHTLY DINNER, BED & BREAKFAST. DINE WITH US THROUGHOUT DECEMBER AND ENJOY A DECADENT FESTIVE FEAST OR DELICIOUS AFTERNOON TEA. OUR FESTIVE DINING MENU FEATURES ALL THE CLASSICS YOU’D EXPECT, IN A SETTING THAT’S A WORLD AWAY FROM THE NORM. OUR FESTIVE MENU IS AVAILABLE TO VIEW ONLINE. £26.95 2 COURSES / £31.95 3 COURSES. SPA WITH US AND INDULGE IN A RELAXING SENSORY EXPERIENCE, ALTERNATIVELY, WHY NOT TREAT SOMEONE ELSE AND GIVE THE GIFT OF LUXURY WITH A GIFT CARD.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT WWW.WALWICKHALL.COM OR CALL 01434 620 156 FOR OUR FESTIVE BROCHURE

LOVE LIFE XXXXXXXX

The holiday season is upon us. Love it or loath it, there’s no escaping it – life gets busy, the diary fills up, there is a lot to do and expectations are high. Many of us are wiped out by Christmas, or wake up in January feeling strung-out, overloaded or exhausted, wishing we’d done things differently.

So, is it possible to embrace all of the fun and festive frolics AND stay stress free?

HERE ARE MY TOP TIPS FOR DOING JUST THAT >> Plan in some quiet time – Get ahead before everyone else fills your time. Book yourself a night in, or a morning of ‘shopping’ (aka coffee and cake). Protect this time at all costs and don’t give it up for anyone.

Make the ‘jobs’ fun – There is so much to do over the festive period and the list of ‘jobs’ can feel endless, but there are ways to make things feel less heavy. Have a glass of wine while wrapping your presents, do your food shopping with a friend, or catch up on your favourite TV show when cooking.

Don’t buy what you don’t need – Do yourself a favour and forget about filling the fridge with ‘just in case’ food. Worry less about everything matching and resist having every drink imaginable ready for anyone who pops in.

Stay with nature – This season can be so ‘synthetic’, with lots of plastic, flashing lights and central heating. Staying connected to nature can offset the impact of this, so take regular walks, or have a cup of tea in the garden when you can.

Eat your greens – We tend to eat more carbs and sugar at this time of year, which can deplete our energy levels and make our bodies feel sluggish. Indulge if you wish, but balance this out with vitamin-rich, ‘grounding’ foods like leafy greens and root vegetables. You’ll be thankful for it come January!

Cherish the time between Christmas and New Year – Try not to front load your festive season, or get too hooked on the ‘main events’. There is a whole portion of delicious time to enjoy and the window between Christmas and New Year is a perfect time for calm reflection and dreaming.

Book activities that enable quiet time – With a bit of strategic planning, you can do things, spend time with people you love and get some quiet time all at once! Try planning a trip to the cinema, host a family movie night, or simply have a duvet day at home in your pyjamas.

Gift yourself some self-care – Try a holistic treatment like reflexology or shiatsu, or book a yoga class. You could also try some new essential oils for use in a diffuser or the bath.

Frankincense is perfect for this time of year - extremely calming and grounding and, of course, super seasonal!

Happy Christmas - and see you in 2018. Laura x Get your free ‘Meditation on Stillness’ here: https://spacewith-in.lpages.co/a-free-meditation-on-stillness/

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

@space.with_i

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@spacewithindevelopment

Generation ageless

Generation Ageless is about talking to people who have made interesting life/work changes and have a positive attitude to mid-life, doing things differently, changing their pace of life, their priorities, reflecting on what’s gone before and the new opportunities and challenges to come

Vicky Gilroy from Whitley Bay turned 50 earlier this year. She trained as a children’s nurse in 1985 and has had a varied career working with children, families and communities within the NHS, higher education and, more recently, charitable sector. She is married with two daughters, 16 and 21 NOV/DEC17

SPOTLIGHT

didn’t really engage in structured sport until my late 20s. It was more about going out partying in those days. After having my first daughter it was hard to get back to the structure of fitting in regular exercise and it was easy not to be bothered.

Now life is about

enjoying each day for what it is, keeping fit and active are really important to me and I know that they help both my physical and mental health. My family is my number one priority and it’s really all about quality time with them while balancing work and friends.

Why/how I made a change… In 2000 I had a baby boy, Jack, who was stillborn at 41 weeks. This had a significant impact on my husband and four-year-old daughter, Hannah.

I was then on a mission to have another baby and in August 2001 gave birth to my second daughter Megan. Unfortunately Megan spent her first week in special care before coming home. During this time I was extremely anxious about life and its fragility, to the point it was making me ill. I was fortunate to have a great health visitor who suggested I had postnatal anxiety and referred me for specialist help.

The mental health nurse who came to see me at home was great and was able to support me to recognise my anxiety was justified, but also help me to put in place a plan to reduce my stress. Exercise is recognised to be as effective as mild antidepressant medication.

My treatment plan involved setting a plan of regular exercise - running was my thing before my children so this was what the nurse prescribed. It worked and made me feel better about myself and reduced my anxiety to a manageable level.

I was converted and have never stopped running and exercising since.

STYLE

Woolly wonderwear to warm your way through winter.

Hug-me wraps are a seasonal go-to - and a cool cashmere cardie looks dapper on dads.

Family is all about…

quality time, laughs and memories. The children grow up so quickly you need to cherish every moment and ensure there’s enough time for them.

I’m lucky I have a great husband who also loves sport in fact our whole family is known as the fit family - some people think we are a bit mad!

I’ve got time for most things I want to do, it’s just a case of giving them priority.

Things are different because I am getting older I ache a bit in the morning and if I get injured it takes a bit longer to get my fitness back.

I’ve recently joined a boot camp which is challenging but is helping with core fitness.

Merino cape, £195 Cashmere cardigan, £395 www.brora.co.uk

Day in the life of me

So, today I got up at 5am to take my daughter swimming then headed to boot camp at 6am - after an hour of fun (torture), I picked my daughter up. A quick shower, breakfast and then on with the day job.

I am now working with the Institute of Health Visiting, a national charity supporting health visitors to deliver the best support to children and families. A key part of this role is supporting parity of esteem for perinatal mental health an area I am passionate about from my own experiences. It is a privilege to be able to now offer something back and hopefully make things better for other families.

Once the work is complete it’s cooking tea, walking the dog and hopefully then sitting down with a nice cuppa!

The people who are important The most important people to me Vicky is also an awesome athlete – she completed her first Great North run at 26 – and this was followed over the last two decades by four marathons, numerous triathlons, the two-mile Great North Swim last year, a number of long distance cycle rides (Coast to Coast, London to Paris to name a few) and Sportive Cycle rides including the Majorca 167 (104 miles) this year as part of her 50th birthday celebrations.

She completed her first triathlon ten years ago in memory of her sister-in-law, an amazing sports woman tragically killed whilst out on her bike.

She worked incredibly hard for the triathlons (“I couldn’t do front crawl when I did my first triathlon”) and at 47 qualified for a European Age group Triathlon representing GB in Kitzbuhel, Austria.

I used to do this…

As a young person I was always active and had a passion for outdoors, although I

NOV/DEC17

are my family and close friends

Work/life balance?

At times for all of us this can get out of kilter and there have been times in my career where work has definitely got the better of me. I will always prioritise my exercise as it gives me the head space to reflect and get things back in balance. At times this has led to a change of job as there has to be a balance

I thrive on fresh air, feeling fit, and being around people I love. I love to be busy and active. The best day is being out on my bike in good company with stunning countryside and then coming back to a great family meal.

Mid life means to me

looking forward to more active years, having more time to do the things I love; cycling walking and running with friends and family. Seeing my daughters blossom into great young women full of aspiration and energy for life. Planning my next sporting challenge, my next holiday, my next piece of work to try and make a difference to children and their families.

Most of all able being content and happy with my lot.

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ADVERTORIAL

Three times a treat Stop by The Three Tuns, Northallerton, for hearty pub lunches and cosy catch-ups with chums in terrifically traditional surroundings...

The Three Tuns is a family-owned and run restaurant, situated in the heart of the picturesque village of Osmotherley in North Yorkshire. It’s child, dog and walker-friendly - and you’ll find it on the Coast to Coast route and on the Cleveland Way walks.

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The Di Giorgio family took over in 2005.

Today, mother-and-daughter duo, Debbie and Gabriella, take care of front of house, while head chef Mikey, Gabriella’s partner, leads the way in the kitchen.

Step inside and you’ll discover a building that dates back to the 18th century, boasting beautiful black ironwork details, ornate wood panelling and hand-crafted furniture. Cosy up in traditional Rennie Mackintosh-inspired surroundings and bask in the warm and friendly atmosphere.

The bar serves fine wines, selected beers and lagers and cask ales, as well as soft drinks and spirits. Choose your favourite tipple and relax by the open fire.

When it comes to the food, there’s something for everyone, from Middle Eastern-inspired light bites, and hearty pub grub classics, such as the kitchen’s famous Three Tuns Burger, to their renowned Sunday lunches and comforting puds. There’s also hot, homemade soup of the day and fresh bread on offer - perfect

up to 50 guests, while the snug and bar seats up to 20. Dogs are welcome too - and their drinks are always on the house.

For those looking to spend the night, the venue offers luxurious and newlyrefurbished en-suite bedrooms both on and off the premises.

After a period of closure, The Three Tuns is soon to be open and back in business, ready to welcome back its legion of loyal customers and say hello to brand new faces.

for the colder months.

On sunnier days, why not head out to the charming and not-so-secret garden, where you can kick-back, enjoy a glass of something chilled, and take in the views.

The Three Tuns is an ideal venue for social gatherings and special occasions.

The main dining area can accommodate

Three Tuns Restaurant 9 South End, Osmotherley, Northallerton North Yorkshire, DL6 3BN Tel: 01609 88 33 01 www.threetunsrestaurant.co.uk

NOV/DEC17

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BERRIES & BULBS

Veg patch WITH KAREN PHILLIPS

For me the best kind of hand-made Christmas gifts are ones where there is an added benefit for the maker. Embrace these ideas for the perfect present and consider the leftovers as a gift to self!

• Once the nuts are mixed with the caramel the whole mixture gets very hard to stir so work quickly and have everything else prepared beforehand.

• DO NOT get caramel on your skin – it is hotter than boiling water and sets hard on the skin – as my mum can testify from when I poured it over her hand as a child when making toffee!

FORCED BULBS >> Hyacinths/tulips in a wide vase Place decorative pebbles in a thick layer over the base of a wide vase. Position three hyacinth bulbs or five tulips on top of the pebbles and add water to beneath the base of the bulbs; DO NOT allow the water to touch the base of the bulbs. Place the whole vase in the dark, somewhere cool like a garage/shed in a cupboard out of the light. It needs to be dark and cool so that roots will form before the bulb starts to shoot. Once roots have fully formed in the base of the vase the whole vase can be moved somewhere light but still cool (north facing window) to green up. Attach a festive ribbon around the vase using glue dots or double-sided tape. The bulbs will grow and flower once the recipient places them in the warmth.

ELDERBERRY OR RASPBERRY VINEGAR >> For many years I’ve made raspberry vinegar with its wonderful health benefits: in the past a cure for whooping cough and a natural soother for any throaty ailment. This year’s plethora of elderberries got me thinking: could a vinegar be made from them? The answer is yes and, since those dark crimson berries are full of flavonoids, anthocyanins and vitamins A & C, it is the perfect tonic to ward off winter colds. It can be used as a home-made alternative to balsamic vinegar and drinking vinegars, diluted with soda, are growing ever popular as a non-alcoholic tipple, indeed regular readers of this column will remember ‘Placebo Pimms’: a non-alcoholic version made with balsamic vinegar that fools even hard-core drink connoisseurs.

Method Place 350g elderberries (remove stalks) or raspberries in a ceramic bowl and cover with 500ml cider vinegar. Cover with cling film and steep for 3-5 days; then strain through clean muslin into a measuring jug; DO NOT squeeze the cloth or the resulting vinegar will be cloudy. For every 250ml of liquid, you’ll need 350g of sugar. Put the liquid into a clean saucepan and bring to simmering point then add the sugar and simmer for ten minutes before pouring into sterilised bottles.

A TRIO OF TORRONE >> The Sicilian speciality, Torrone Siciliano, is a sticky brittle made from almonds in hard caramel but any nuts can be used. It is extremely simple to make as long as you heed the following cautions: • Keep a close eye on the sugar when the pan is on the hob; sugar gets to a temperature where it changes colour and character very quickly and once you turn your back lovely caramel will have turned into a bitter black mess.

• Do not be tempted to stir the sugar too early on, just shake the pan once it starts to melt. Stirring the sugar whilst it is melting can cause it to crystalise.

• Use a wooden spoon (not plastic since it may melt!) to stir in the nuts.

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Ingredients Each 400g of nuts and 400g of sugar makes about 12 bars of torrone.

400g granulated sugar for each type of nut chosen 400g each of whole almonds/pinenuts/ hazelnuts a lemon Method Grease two large sheets of baking parchment with olive oil and place one sheet on a large tray (dampen the paper underneath to stop it sliding). Place the sugar in a large, wide heavy-bottomed pan and turn the heat on low. Leave the sugar to melt, giving an occasional shake.

Only when half the sugar has melted can you stir with a wooden spoon to speed it along. Once melted, wait until the caramel is the colour of maple syrup. Keep the pan over a low heat and mix quickly until all the nuts are incorporated then tip it onto the greaseproof paper and place the other sheet of oiled greaseproof paper on the top and flatten the top with a rolling pin until the torrone is about 1cm thick.

Remove the top greaseproof paper sheet and use the half lemon to rub across the surface to add shine and a touch of flavour to the torrone. Whilst the torrone is still warm cut into large triangles.

Wrap alternating pieces of hazelnut, pinenut and almond torrone in a large sheet of cellophane and tie with a festive ribbon. Any smaller offcuts can be kept in an airtight container, with parchment between the layers, and served with coffee or dessert wine over Christmas.

individually pricked with a silver needle but I have never felt this necessary.

Ingredients 1lb/450g sloes 1lb/450g caster sugar 1 pint/600ml cheap gin Method Place the sloes in the wide-necked bottle; add the sugar and the gin and then shake vigorously. Leave in a cool, dark place, shaking periodically, for 6-8 weeks until a beautiful garnet-coloured liquid nectar results. Ideally you should make a batch for the following year since this considerably improves with time. Strain through a nylon sieve; pour into pretty bottles and seal.

Once you’ve decanted your sloe gin into pretty bottles it’s time for a post Xmas present to yourself: infuse cider with gin-soaked sloes for around six weeks or until the resulting concoction is pale pink and tasting of dark fruits and bitter almonds (from the seeds inside the sloes). Relax and enjoy during the darkest days of February.

Often when you’ve used up your cheap gin you still have a plateful of picked sloes with no idea what to use them for. Umeboshi Sloes - the perfect Christmas gift for any foodie friend. Ferment any leftover ripe sloes with 2% by weight of salt for a month. Then pop in the smallest Kilner jars and steep in vinegar for up to a year. Umeboshi plums are supposedly a good cure for hangovers so umeboshi sloes are the perfect present for the festive season!

SLOE CIDER >> or, as you’ll call it after a few, ‘Slider’ ‘Slider’ is the glorious by-product resulting from making humble old sloe gin as a Christmas present for friends and relatives.

You’ll need hand-picked sloes (wear thick gloves since sloes grow on blackthorn trees and pricked skin can result in nasty infections). Don’t wait until after a frost, otherwise you’ll have lost out to other folk picking them, simply pop them in the freezer overnight to soften the skins.

Folklore has it that they should be

UPCOMING COURSES @LINNELS FARM CHRISTMAS WREATH MAKING >> WED 22 NOVEMBER Get into the festive spirit with this full day of instruction on making your Christmas Wreath by Hannah Price Wildflower Florist.

10am – 3.30pm. Incl. morning coffee/ cakes and a 2-course lunch. £95

SIMPLY CHRISTMAS >> FRI 24 NOVEMBER Get a head start on Christmas with this hands-on workshop. In the morning you’ll create individual bespoke Christmas puddings, learn the secrets of the booziest mincemeat and simplest pastry for perfect mincepies and assess the

merits of a range of Christmas cocktails.

10am – 3.30pm. Incl. morning coffee/ cakes and a 2-course lunch. £95

CHRISTMAS ALL WRAPPED UP! >> FRI 1 DECEMBER Take the stress out of Christmas with this half-day workshop on gift wrapping techniques. Depart with the ability to wrap awkwardly shaped presents with style and make budget gifts look a million dollars.

9.30am-12.30pm. Morning coffee and mincepies included. £35 >> For further details visit www.linnelsfarm.com

NOV/DEC17

Open Open NOW

DOUBLE CHOCOLATE BISCOTTI >> Ingredients 100g butter, softened 125g caster sugar 4 tablespoons cocoa powder 2 teaspoons baking powder 2 eggs 200g plain flour 100g white chocolate, chopped 125g chocolate chips

Method Cream butter and sugar in a mixer until pale; add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Fold in the other ingredients and divide into two long, oblong logs set apart on a greased baking tray. Chill for 20 minutes in the fridge.

Bake for 35 minutes at 160 degrees C. Leave to cool for five minutes then cut each log diagonally into 1cm slices and place flat on the baking tray and put back in the oven for eight minutes; turn them over and bake for a further 6-8 minutes.

Cool on a wire rack and then use to fill a decorative jar, or vintage tin. Perfect dipped in hot coffee on a cold winter day.

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

5 Queen Street Quayside Newcastle NE1 3UG London Bar & Kitchen, Newcastle

LBK_NCL

LBK.NCL

Fairytale shire of New York Christmas & New Year breaks 2017 Imagine an historic coaching inn, its cosy interiors aglow with crackling log fires, and bedecked with homemade evergreen decorations. Overlooking a traditional market place, with rows of higgledy-piggledy shops displaying their festive wares and pretty, starlit trees twinkling away... beyond this the ruins of a medieval castle and a beautiful country estate are waiting to be explored.

This wonderful, dream like Christmas is waiting for you and your loved ones to enjoy as guests of The Black Swan Hotel in Helmsley.

To find out more about our festive breaks call us on 01439 770466, or book online at www.blackswan-helmsley.co.uk The Black Swan Hotel, Market Place, Helmsley, North Yorkshire, YO62 5BJ

NOV/DEC17

www.luxe-magazine.co.uk

73

FEAST

Off duty WITH DAVE COULSON

This rich and warming combination of flavours is as indulgent as it gets: the perfect dark-night supper

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Lamb, onion, elderberry Ingredients

Method

300g lamb cannon 200g large potatoes 100g celeriac, diced 50g baby onions Sage leaves 100ml elderberry vinegar 20ml apple juice 20ml Port Duck fat or lamb fat 100g white onions 200g egg whites 20g salt Vegetable oil for cooking Thickening agent

To make the Pommes Anna, a classic French dish, peel the potatoes and place in cold water.

Using a mandelin (or knife if you fancy yourself as the next Dave Coulson or simply don’t have a mandelin), slice the potato as finely as you can. Preheat oven to 180C. Layer the slices neatly on to greaseproof paper, seasoning each layer. Place in a baking dish tray and pour the melted animal fat of your choosing over. (This is the perfect carb for gluten and lactose intolerants alike).

Whilst that cooks in the oven, for 30 mins, you can prepare the rest of the dish.

Whisk the egg whites with the salt until stiff then coat the celeriac and pop this in the oven. This will be left to the very end.

Put the baby onions in a layer of vegetable oil (or any animal fat you may have left over), and let them simmer over a very low heat, until just cooked. This process should take between 30 minutes and an hour.

Peel the onions and cut them finely. Place them into a separate tray with a knob of butter, a little cooking oil, and season with table salt before covering and putting into the oven for 15 minutes.

Uncover the onions and allow to colour until dark brown, then, using either a hand blender or kitchen aid, blitz to form a smooth purée. For an added smoothness add extra butter; it is Christmas after all, so calories don’t actually count.

For the lamb cannon, season a frying pan with salt and a very light amount of vegetable oil. Render the meat until golden and then continue to cook in the oven to preference, usually around 3-4 minutes for a perfect pink. Let the lamb rest for around 10 minutes once removed from the oven to ensure the ultimate, tender finish. The final part is to combine the apple juice, Port and elderberry vinegar in a bowl and using a thickening agent such as Ultratex, (or any available in supermarkets), whisk to make a gel. This acidity adds a perfect balance to the wintry flavours already on the dish. Plate up as above.

NOV/DEC17

SHIP SHAPE

Fresh from a fish-tastic adventure with hot chef Nathan Outlaw in Cornwall, foodie couple Paul Johnson and Kelly Hopkins have cast their net to rural pub life

When it comes to seafood by the seaside, the name Nathan Outlaw is one to make ardent food lovers drool.

His devotees make a pilgrimage to Cornwall where the Michelin-starred chef has three places taking in fine-dining, gastro pub and seafood kitchen.

Paul Johnson and Kelly Hopkins were no different - but their pilgrimage was from the

other side of the restaurant pass, for Paul, cooking at Outlaw’s Mariners public house in the swanky, sea-salty and super-chic resort of Rock on the Camel Estuary.

And for Kelly, who has worked in a number of North East restaurants and hotels including Slaley Hall, No 19 at Close House and the Barrasford Arms, it meant managing the Metropole Hotel in Padstow, just across the water from Rock.

The couple were there for more than three years, with Paul honing his skill in the kitchen as Kelly developed her skills in

NOV/DEC17

management.

With the beach on the doorstep this land of serious surf might seem the ultimate place to work - surely in your mind’s eye every shift ends with a dip in the sea or a reach for the wetsuit?

“Well, I had a surfing lesson once as a birthday present,” laughs Paul.

“The weather was terrible - I never tried it again!”

Instead, he concentrated his talents on

feeding the hungry folk visiting the Mariners - in what is one of the most exclusive holiday destinations in the UK, often dubbed ‘Kensington-on-Sea’ because of its abundance of wealthy second home-owners.

“The town is crazy busy in the summer - yet it is tiny - you can’t drive through. Gordon Ramsay bought a £4m house there this year - lots of properties are second or third

homes. It gets a bit crazy!”

In terms of cooking, the abundance of fresh fish and shellfish was a chef’s dream, but as a traditional pub, it was also all about catering for the meat-lovers with quality steaks and other gastro staples.

What the Outlaw kitchen experience did add by the bucket-and-spadeful was attention to detail and the ultimate appreciation of fine ingredients, says Paul.

“The quality of seafood and fish was amazing. The fishing boats have access to a Nathan Outlaw fridge, so they’d put the best stuff in there - we’d call up and see what was in his fridge that day - he got a licence to be able to buy straight from the boats - amazing mackerel and lobster.

“But as a pub - Sharp’s Brewery is in the village too - we tried to be known for our steaks as much as anything. People go on a foodie pilgrimage to the Outlaw places and they are all different.

“What I gained from working in an Outlaw kitchen was real attention to detail in everything we cooked - from a fish finger sandwich upwards. Things looked simple, but there might be three or four components to everything on the plate.

“The outlook and experience was everything.”

Now, Kelly and Paul have brought their little slice of Cornwall back to a slightly less sunshiny Wylam to recreate some of their Mariners magic.

The couple, who met working at Close House Hotel and Golf Club, hope their gastro pub efforts will put Wylam on the foodie map.

The pub’s name lends itself to subtle hints of their Cornish escapade - clock the jaunty earthenware water jugs and the odd oar about the place.

The Ship is a characterful pub in the heart of Wylam, almost as close to the water as they’ve been used to with its river walks close-by.

Paul has created a neat, tasty-looking menu that will appeal to lovers of creative pub food, which comes with a big local tick too.

Bread from Bread & Roses in Amble comes with Acorn butter, Northumberland fish pie scratches the seaside itch, or you can feast on roasted hake and butterbean stew.

Blagdon blue cheese makes an appearance in butternut squash risotto.

Sweet-toothed visitors will love baked rice pudding with sloe gin blackberries, or chocolate stout cake with orange creme fraiche.

Not forgetting to quench your thirst with a taste of their own-beer, Shipwreck, or an Americano made with Barnard Castle’s Langton Coffee.

Kelly says: “We always knew we wanted to come back and get our own place.

It feels like a traditional pub, but we want to focus on quality local ingredients and keep it simple.

“It is a big place with a lot of outside space, so we have some exciting plans.” www.theshipinnwylam.co.uk

It’s a big place with a lot of outside space, so we have some exciting plans

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TASTY TRIP

Star trek

With James Close of The Raby Hunt restaurant, which this year retained its second Michelin star Stay >> Part of our stay was in a villa at Dunas Douradas Beach Club - a resort where Jose Mourinho, Alex Ferguson and Stephen Gerrard all have places. Great setting for a beach holiday.

We also stayed a night at the Conrad Algarve, (below), which comes highly recommended. One of the best hotels in the Algarve with impressive architecture and amazing outdoor spaces. Loved the rooms and we had some good sushi. Worth a stay for the Gusto restaurant headed up by Heinz Beck, the highly-acclaimed chef. This is his Portuguese outpost, with some goodlooking food such as fagottelli carbonara or pumpkin risotto. conradalgarve.com

Time off >> We hired a yacht and sailed along the fantastic coast, with its amazing beaches, to head for lunch at a place recommended to us, Restaurante Evasristo.

It’s exactly the kind of place you want to see by the beach, with the freshest seafood specialties. Fresh fish, extra clams,

The place >> Vila Joya, The Algarve, Portugal.

A two-star Michelin restaurant headed up

by Austrian chef, Dieter Koschina, serving tasting menus drawing on his Central European background.

There’s a relaxed beach-side restaurant, which is all about fresh fish.

We ate at the main restaurant – with probably the best view I’ve ever had from a restaurant chair.

The food >> We were there for the six-course tasting menu with Stefan Lann cooking.

We had a good number of snacks to start off with. First off, a beef carpaccio with a kind of dehydrated parmesan sponge.

Then, a tuna tartare which was served in a little cornet-style base, with wasabi and caviar.

The stand-out of these snacks was a potato and cheese crisp with baby squid, layered

76 www.luxe-magazine.co.uk

up mini-lasagna-style (definitely a 7/10).

Roasted fig with grated foie gras was also a winning combination, but would have been better with less sweetness.

The main tasting menu started off with king crab – an amazing dish with yuzu and avocado. An acidic yuzu puree, which really got your senses going, worked so well with the creaminess of of the avocado and fennel seasoning (an 8/10 from me).

Fish courses next included sole with

We ate at the main restaurant - with probaby the best view I’ve ever had from a restaurant chair

cabbage, classic champagne sauce and potato gnocchi. Nicely executed; the champagne sauce had great depth from good stock and was well executed with well-cooked fish (6/10).

We moved on to stone bass with potato puree and ceps. A nice fish dish, wellcooked, but the potato was a bit heavy.

Together it seemed over-rich and in appearance it was very similar on the plate to the previous dish (4/10).

Next, we had suckling pig cheek and belly with buttermilk and radishes.

A good combination; the radishes proved a good balance to the rich fattiness of the pork, with the buttermilk lending some acidity. Very simple, but it worked (6/10).

We moved on to duck breast with beetroot and raspberry. This was my least favourite from the menu. The quality of the duck breast wasn’t great and the skin was less crispy than it should have been – it all felt a bit safe to me, lacking impact (4/10).

Next up, a pre-dessert of sorbet, which was great, but by now it was time to leave – our meal had taken four and a half hours and the taxi was running!

So, we never got to try the promised dessert of banana na brasa, which was probably excellent! Good luck if you get that far.

Overall score? 8/10! www.vilajoya.com

tiger shrimp, scarlet shrimp, Squid Evaristo and lobster from the coast, in tanks waiting for you. This was the meal of the trip for us – impeccable – and what a memorable setting.

They have a live webcam on the website for when you need to watch the waves. www.evaristo.pt

Tee-off >> Golf always plays a part in my time off. I really enjoyed a game at Laranjal - one of the nicest courses I’ve played, in fact.

Opened in 2009, it was originally an orange grove. The par 72 championship course has spectacular fairways and well-defined greens, as well as five beautiful lakes, umbrella pines, cork-oaks and orange trees. www.quintadolago.com/en/golf/laranjalcourse

NOV/DEC17

Wine pair

in association with

Gastro specials and inspiring wines.

A match made in heaven and the heart of a new food adventure in Luxe featuring the team from Chadwicks Inn Maltby.

Chef Steve Lawford, who heads up the 2-AA Rosette Michelin Bib Gourmand kitchen and wine guru, Lee Tolley, will inspire with tempting recipes and fine wines to help you get creative in the kitchen and wine cellar. This time, fabulous fizz to kick off the festive season.

<< Made to match Vilarnau Brut Reserve Cava (50% Macabeo, 35% Parellada, 15% Xarel-lo) ABV 11.5%

Whitby Crab, Cucumber, Wasabi Mayonnaise & Dill >> Serves 4 Ingredients

Method

Crab

Crab

350g picked white Whitby crab meat, 2 tbsp mayonnaise (homemade if possible), Chopped dill, Ground nutmeg, Zest of 1 lemon

Check crab meat for shell. Mix with the mayonnaise, some dill and lemon zest. Add salt and ground nutmeg to taste.

Cucumber Mousse 200g Deseeded cucumber, 100g Grated celeriac, 250ml Double cream, 3 Bronze gelatine leaves Cucumber Mousse

Cucumber Mousse Slice the cucumber and season – leave for 20 minutes. Add celeriac and cream to a pan and simmer until celeriac is soft.

Soak gelatine in cold water until soft then remove. Squeeze cucumber to drain off excess water and add to saucepan. Add gelatine, then blitz in a food processor until smooth. Pour into a container and set in the fridge.

Cucumber Mousse Peel the cucumber and cut into rings. Seal in a vacuum seal.

1/2 Cucumber

Wasabi Mayonnaise

Wasabi Mayonnaise

Add egg yolks to a bowl. Slowly pour in the oil whilst whisking until they emulsify. Add vinegar and wasabi paste.

200ml Vegetable oil, 3 Egg yolks, 10ml White wine vinegar, 20g Wasabi paste

Plate up Form crab into 4 balls and place on plates. Add mayonnaise and mousse to piping bags and dot around the crab.

Add the cucumber and picked dill. Enjoy!

Vilarnau Brut Reserve won Gold Medal at the ‘Champagne & Sparkling Wine World Championships 2015’ and is immediately striking with its Gaudi-esque label.

It has a yeasty yet fruity nose, dry on the palate and has fruit flavours such as peach and pear. Great for every day drinking or as an aperitif.

Henners Reserve 2010 (70% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Noir) ABV 12%

This 2010 vintage English sparkling wine, made in East Sussex, has won multiple awards.

With English sparkling wine currently giving Champagne a run for its money, this is right up there with the best. Fragrant with vanilla and an almost nutty aroma on the nose, it’s very smooth and perfectly balanced with acidity, a hint of lime and buttery on the palate. Perfect for any celebration.

Champagne Lallier Grand Cru Vintage 2008 Brut (55% Pinot Noir, 45% Chardonnay) ABV 12.5%

Lallier is a small family run Champagne house producing top Champagne of the highest quality. We love it so much, we use the NV Lallier Grand Cru as our house Champagne at Chadwicks Inn Maltby. Yellow in colour with elegant bubbles. Green apples, lemons and limes on the nose. Freshly baked bread flavour, which is perfectly balanced on the palate and an everlasting length which leaves you in no doubt of its quality.

A perfect food wine to be enjoyed, if not shared, on very special occasions

www.chadwicksinnmaltby.co.uk

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

chadwicksinnmaltby.co.uk

NOV/DEC17

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

www.luxe-magazine.co.uk

77

EASY DOES IT

Festive feel-good Queen of the kitchen Mary Berry offers up some wisdom for feasts, family and festivities in her new book of household tricks and home harmony

Christmas People tend to get really worried about Christmas, because they think it’s an event and panic. But really, it is just a big family roast. Sit down with a large sheet of paper, not the back of an envelope, and make some lists: who’s coming, how many days you’ve got people round, when you’re going out, when you’re staying in and so on...

Once you know who’s coming for what meals, and when you’re likely to be out, you can do a little master plan (which can change, of course; it doesn’t need to be set in stone – the point is that it means you don’t end up over-buying). Christmas is an expensive time, so to spread the cost out, start early: buy tinned things, or things that have a long use-by date. Or non-perishables like red candles – something the shops always seem to run out of in December! It’s all just a matter of organsation.

Be realistic about what you can get done in the time you have available, and also don’t feel guilty if you haven’t time to do things: you can buy them. I always use frozen chestnuts, for example. If you can make things in advance that freeze well, like stuffing and the odd pud, by all means do.

It’ll give you peace of mind.

A note on christmas cooking It’s really all a matter of being organised, but these are my two top tips: Order your turkey in advance, or, if you have a frozen one, be sure to allow time for it to defrost.

Make as much as possible ahead, to give yourself less to do on the day: bread sauce and stuffing (in a tin, or a roasting dish) can both be made the day before, then refrigerated and reheated on the day.

Cranberry sauce can also be made in advance, or bought.

Clementines & oranges Clementines and oranges are a favourite around Christmas-time, and the peel has a variety of uses. Citrus-flavoured sugar can be created simply by adding the dried peel to a jar of granulated sugar and leaving it to infuse. Dried peel also burns very well in an open fire and gives a lovely smell, or you can make homemade potpourri by adding it to a bowl along with cinnamon sticks, pine cones and star anise.

To dry citrus peel: Peel off the rind with a serrated peeler, avoiding the white pith.

Place the peel flat on top of a low radiator or at the back of an Aga, or on a piece of kitchen paper in an airing cupboard for a few days, until dried.

• Think of different types of presentation – pieces of slate, wooden boards, trays, different- shaped plates, bowls, baskets, and leaves used to line plates make the canapés look exciting and different.

• Ask your guests to help you pass platters round.

• Consolidate half-empty plates or platters and arrange the food prettily on one plate.

• Place cocktail sticks for spearing (e.g. mini sausages) in a small glass – and put empty bowls out so that your guests have somewhere to place the sticks when they’re done.

• Have small napkins to hand.

Quantities If you’re serving a first course/starter: just 1–2 per person If you’re not serving a first course/ starter: 3–4 per person If it’s a nibbles only drinks party: 8–10 per person Drinks need as much consideration as the menu.

If it’s mid-winter and cold, offering a hot drink such as mulled wine is a nice touch and has the added benefit of smelling lovely.

It’s also very important to have interesting non-alcoholic drinks available, especially if you have guests who don’t drink, are driving, or are pregnant (not to mention younger guests).

Increasingly, many people are choosing not to drink, and so there are a wide range of juices, cordials, flavoured sparkling waters and tonics available, plus a variety of low alcohol beers (0.5% and below).

Visitors When people come to stay and you’ve got time, you can really go for it on the breakfast front: eggs, bacon, black pudding, kippers . . . It’s worth considering that you might not be hungry for lunch if you have a cooked breakfast, so if that’s on the cards, something lighter might be more sensible. I always think it’s a good idea to have a very light lunch, and then you can go to town in the evening.

Canapés • Serve a mixture of vegetarian and meat and fish, bread and pastry-based things and lighter bites, and hot and cold – think about what you need the oven for, and don’t overload it.

78 www.luxe-magazine.co.uk

Mary’s Household Tips & Tricks by Mary Berry, £20. Penguin/Michael Joseph

NOV/DEC17

CHEER

Deck the halls Festive days are guaranteed to be merry and bright when boozy baubles are your decorations of choice. Whether you hang them empty or full is up to you!

Coloured gin-filled baubles by Pickerings Gin, £29.95 (for six, boxed).

Individual gin, vodka and whisky baubles from The Lakes Distillery, £16.99 each (20cl).

Available from Fenwick Food Hall, Newcastle.

NOV/DEC17

www.luxe-magazine.co.uk 79

DIVE IN

FISH COURSE WITH TERRY LAYBOURNE

Shellfish

Hot Roast Shellfish with Garlic Butter, to share SERVES 4

At this time of year, there’s an abundance of fresh shellfish coming from the Scottish and North East coastline.

The colder the water, the better the shellfish gets. The cold water causes the shellfish to grow more slowly which means they’re fleshier and full of flavour. They are by far at their best, both in terms of price and availability.

A platter of roasted shellfish is a fantastically indulgent dish especially on a cold autumnal day. Heaped full of tasty goodness, this recipe really lets you savour the fruits of the sea.

What’s great about this recipe is that it’s your very own pick and mix of the sea. If you don’t like cockles, simply leave them out. Plenty of clams? Throw them all in. Choose from a fantastic variety right here on your doorstep too. We’re using Lindisfarne oysters, mussels from Shetland, and hand-dived scallops from the Isle of Skye. Pop into Saltwater and our fishmonger will be able to help you pick out what’s fresh off the boat that day.

This is a fantastic dinner party feast, impressive to serve on a big platter in the middle of the table, with the garlic butter keeping it all warm. Just serve with a big ladle and a good bottle of white wine to share. Dig in!

80 www.luxe-magazine.co.uk

Ingredients

Method

4 large scallops (including shells) 200g cockles 200g clams 400g mussels 8 Lindisfarne oysters 4 razor clams 4 langoustines (cooked & split in half lengthways) 175g unsalted butter, softened 4 cloves garlic, very finely chopped 50g parsley, chopped 2 lemons 200mls dry white wine Salt & pepper

Ensure all shellfish has been scrubbed to remove any sand.

To make the garlic butter; mix the softened butter, garlic, parsley and the juice of one of the lemons together. Check the seasoning.

Open the oysters and cook under a hot grill along with the langoustines for two minutes then set aside Heat a non-stick frying pan over a moderate heat. Sear the scallops for 1 minute either side before placing back into the shells To cook the mussels, cockles, clams and razors; heat a separate larger pan, throw in the shellfish and add the wine. Quickly put on a tight-fitting lid and steam for 2 1/2 minutes or until all the shells have opened. Once cooked, quickly remove the shells and set aside but retain the cooking juices.

Prepare the cooked razor clams by removing the dark sack from the centre as this may contain sand.

Arrange all of the cooked shellfish into a nice serving platter and keep warm in a low oven.

Put the Juices back into a pan, bring to the boil before whisking in the garlic butter and continue to boil for two minutes - check the seasoning Cut the remaining lemon into four wedges to serve with the shellfish.

Pour the sauce over the shellfish and serve.

NOV/DEC17

DECADENT & DAINTY

The ultimate Afternoon Tea

FEC

T BLEND

A c k la m H a ll

Sweet and savoury sensations

GN

RE BLEN ATU D

y B ro c k le H a ll

Teatime by the seaside

S

ER

SI

P

Who doesn’t love the lingering luxury of Afternoon Tea? Mouth-watering cakes and pretty-as-a-picture patisserie shared with your best people. Add a glass of fizz and make it better still. Enjoy the treat

PE

B C IA L LEND

H o r to n e G ra n g

Delicate and delicious

Scrumptious and home-made by the sea.

A warm welcome awaits you at Brockley Hall Hotel.

Our fabulous Festive Afternoon Tea, handcrafted by our 2-rosette award-winning chefs, is the perfect gift or the special treat you deserve.

Enjoy luxurious surroundings, relax in comfortable seats, soak up the atmosphere and watch the world go by.

With endless tea or coffee £19.50 pp or enjoy it with a glass of prosecco and strawberries for £26.95pp.

Afternoon Tea at Horton Grange is a mouth-watering blend of the sweet, savoury and sparkling!

All of our Afternoon Teas are presented with a selection of delicate finger sandwiches, exquisite cakes on a three-tier stand and, of course, a fine selection of teas and coffees from Pumphrey’s.

Served seven days a week, our entirely homemade sweet and savoury treats are a delicious delight, best enjoyed in either our elegant lounge or on our al fresco terrace.

Book now on 01642 822 000 www.acklamhall.co.uk Acklam Hall Ltd, Hall Drive, Acklam, Middlesbrough TS5 7DY

Book now on 01287 622 179 www.brockleyhallhotel.com Brockley Hall Boutique Hotel, Glenside, Saltburn-by -the-Sea TS12 1JS

Book now on 01661 860 686 www.hortongrange.co.uk Horton Grange Hotel, Berwick Hill, Ponteland, Newcastle upon Tyne NE13 6BU

LIC

D

IOUS BLE N D

nd Je s m o ouse ene H

Tea with a tipple twist

Our afternoon teas are all about indulgence: finger sandwiches, sausage rolls and melt-in-your-mouth quiche, three types of scone – plus clotted cream, of course – home-made jams, and a gorgeous selection of wicked cakes. During the Christmas season they do of course have a twist of festiveness. Presented on a tiered stand and served with lashings of tea, we offer a Champagne tea, or for something deliciously different add a glass of alcoholic tea from Noveltea or a winter cocktail.

Choose a sofa in the Cocktail Bar or Billiard Room, a cosy seat by the fire or a table in the Garden Room. Served daily from noon – 5pm. Book in advance.

Book now on 0191 212 3000 www.jesmonddenehouse.co.uk Jesmond Dene House, Jesmond Dene Road, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne NE2 2EY

FI

NE

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L in d e n H a ll

Feast by the fireside

Full of the flavours of Christmas and served beside the warm log fire.

At Macdonald Hotels and Resorts, our dedication to serving home-made variations using the finest, fresh ingredients ensures that our Afternoon Tea is something special.

Served traditionally on tiered cake stands with savory finger-sized sandwiches, followed by scones with jam and cream, a selection of cakes and more... enjoy Afternoon Tea at its best.

Priced at £18.95 per person

Book now on 01670 500 000 www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/our-hotels/macdonaldlinden-hall-golf-country-club/ Linden Hall, Longhorsley, Morpeth, Northumberland NE65 8XF

REGAL BLEN

Gourmet decadence

W a lw ic k H a ll

D

DE

Enjoy our Lady Anne’s Tea featuring finely cut finger sandwiches, homemade scones and a selection of seasonal cakes and pastries. For those with a savoury preference, our Sir William’s Tea includes a vintage cheddar cheese and mustard scone, pork, apple and black pudding sausage roll and hand-raised pork pie.

Our ingredients are locally sourced, prepared and served fresh each day alongside our wide selection of delicious handpicked teas.

Set in the luxurious Dining Room surrounded by walls of mirrors, romantic lighting, and sumptuous fabrics, there really is no better place to experience Afternoon Tea.

If there was ever a place made to enjoy Christmas, it is Walwick Hall. And our Festive Afternoon Tea menu gives you the perfect reason to visit. Sandwiches include smoked turkey, cheddar and festive chutney, smoked salmon and tangerine créme fraiche, honey roast ham and plum chutney. Treat yourself to apple and cinnamon and fruit scones, but leave some room for clementine and pomegranate cake, chocolate and orange macaroons, a sherry trifle shooter, and a Christmas crumble tart served with rum chantilly. For an indulgence add a glass of Champagne or Mulled Wine.

Festive Afternoon Tea throughout December, £19.95 per person. 24hrs advanced notice required.

Book now on 01434 620 156 www.walwickhall.com Walwick Hall Hotel, Humshaugh, Hexham Northumberland NE46 4BJ

If you wish to advertise with us please contact Heather Spacey: heather@remembermedia.co.uk / 07846 073584

NOV/DEC17

www.luxe-magazine.co.uk

81

TREND WATCH with Kate Rose Tear up the timetable and relax this Christmas!

The lead up to Christmas is my most favourite time of the year. Decorating my home, picking out the perfect gifts, festive events, Christmas music, and the kids’ excitement, there’s not much that can beat it….

Christmas scents…

I love the house to smell like Christmas, if you don’t have a real tree, treat yourself to a JO LOVES Christmas tree candle, it really smells like the real thing.

I love to use dried orange slices to decorate my tree, garlands and to pile up in bowls on the coffee table, the smell when these are baking on a low heat in the oven is just divine.

Christmas Eve…

Music…

John Mayer - A search for everything. A mix between acoustic rock and soft blues. Perfect background music for entertaining.

Top 3 Christmas gifts for Him

I actually love Christmas eve more than Christmas day itself.

The excitement in the house, making Christmas sweets with the kids before the pantomime, and the last few preparations for the big day. Once the kids go to bed, the adults get together to share gifts, open a bottle of Champagne - my pick is Gremillet Brut from Fenwick Food Hall, and enjoy with delicious Christmas canapés. I then add the finishing touches to the table for a Christmas breakfast with the kids …

Apple HomePod Moncler Twist Hoody Apple Airpods

Styling tips…

I love the house to be full of Christmas flowers and foliage, and I always call upon my favourite florist Elaine, from Pure Ground Flowers in Whitley Bay. Beautiful garlands over the mantelpiece, handmade from magnolia leaves, spruce, pistacia foliage, ivy and burgundy amaryllis look stunning.

Table flowers using earl grey roses, eucalyptus, blue thistles and viburnum berries; all create a real opulent mix, perfect for Christmas entertaining. I love a wreath and this year I’ve opted for two: a stylish copper ring, hand-twisted with dried moss for hanging indoors and an olive wreath for the front door. All available from Elaine www.pure-ground.co.uk or 07772 617236

Christmas Morning…

Top 3 Christmas gifts for Her

It’s all about the kids. Unwrapping gifts, building toys, playing new games, so much excitement that the hours fly by. I try to make breakfast festive but fun, let’s face it, what child wants to sit and have breakfast when there’s a tub of sweets to munch through? The table is set with lots of Tutti Christmas felt decorations, small grey cones are filled with Christmas sweets. Buttermilk pancakes dusted with cinnamon and icing sugar are piled high to eat with freshly squeezed orange and a glass of champagne for mum and dad – just perfect.

Kirsty Adams Hand thrown porcelain tableware Common Projects grey trainers Tutti & Co 14K gold star earrings

Gift wrapping

Christmas Evening

I love to take time, and wrap presents beautifully. This year I have opted for pure simplicity, plain white, teamed with our grey signature print wrap. Tie simple ribbons or string around the centre, add a sprig of rosemary or olive, add a hand-written note on magnolia leaves, to create an interesting twist.

We have a large family and it’s often difficult to get everyone together at the same time for a formal Christmas dinner. So, a relaxed get together fits our lifestyle and family plans. Christmas sharing plates placed on a beautifully set table with lots of Christmas flowers works well for us, after all, it’s about enjoying good company, and a festive drink or two without a timetable.

82 www.luxe-magazine.co.uk

Alternative Christmas cake …

This year I will be making an alternative Christmas cake, a ‘pistachio and rosewater Persian love cake’ (see recipe overleaf ) inspired by Adam from Cole Café & Deli in Sunderland.

NOV/DEC17

tory OMES

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Your dream home and a holiday of a lifetime could be yours when you reserve at Fallows Park. Located in the heart of Wynyard Park this sought after development features a superb collection of high specification homes.

4 and 5 bedroom homes from £294,950 Part exchange available Let us tell you more - call 01740 645124 Marketing suite and show homes open Thursday to Monday, 11.00am - 5.00pm *Any promoted Story Homes offer is subject to terms and conditions. Offers are available on selected plots only, are subject to availability and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Prices and details are correct at time of being released for advertisement. All images are representative of a typical Story Homes interior/exterior and are for illustrative purposes only. Story Homes reserve the right to withdraw or alter these offers at any time. For further information please speak to a Sales Executive.

BUILDIN G HIGH Q UALITY

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FESTIVE RELAX in association with

Persian Love Cake Ingredients

www.greatlook.co.uk

Christmas nibbles...

Fig, Parma ham and creamed feta bruschetta, glazed with balsamic and dressed with rosemary Blue cheese with poached pears and roasted walnut bruschetta Salmon with sour cream and beetroot bruschetta Sage and red onion posh sausage rolls Baked vanilla cheesecake with poached plums These are a few of my favourite treats made by Adam at Cole Café & Deli, 1 Side Cottage, Back Roker Terrace, Sunderland SR6 9LX. Look out for recipes at luxe-magazine.co.uk

200g unsalted butter 150g caster sugar 4 medium eggs 12 cardamom pods 100g plain flour, sifted 275g ground almonds Zest and juice of 1 unwaxed lemon 1 tbsp rose water 1 tsp baking powder A generous pinch of fine sea salt For the drizzle topping 2 tbsp caster sugar Juice of 1/2 (half ) lemon 1/2 (half ) tbsp rose water For the icing 150g icing sugar Juice of 3/4 (three quarters) lemon 2 tsp cold water To decorate 2 tsp sliced pistachios 2 tsp dried rose petals (optional)

Method Pre-heat the oven to 160C/Gas 3. Grease a 22cm cake tin (one with a removable base) and line it with baking parchment.

In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together. When the mixture is thoroughly combined, beat in the eggs.

Place the cardamom pods in a mortar and work with a pestle to get the seeds out of the pods. Discard the pods and grind the seeds to a fine powder. Add them to the cake mixture, along with the flour, ground almonds, lemon zest and juice, rose water, baking powder and salt. Mix well.

Pour the mixture into the cake tin and bake in the oven for 45 minutes. To check if it is ready, stick a fork in the middle of the cake – it should come out dry.

Towards the end of the cooking time, make your drizzle topping. Place the caster sugar, lemon juice and rose water in a small pan over a low heat and heat until the sugar melts.

Remove the cake from the oven and place it on a wire rack. Poke holes all over the top of the warm cake and drizzle over the syrup.

When the cake is completely cool, make the icing by combining the icing sugar, lemon juice and a few teaspoons of water until you have a smooth, thick icing. Spoon the icing over the cake and finish with a sprinkling of sliced pistachios and, if you like, rose petals.

84 www.luxe-magazine.co.uk

NOV/DEC17

optimum opulence Feeling is believing... the latest innovation from AXOR

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NOV/DEC17

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www.luxe-magazine.co.uk 85

CHAPEL CHIC in association with

www.greatlook.co.uk

Heavenly hospitality Boutique hotel devotees – here’s the answer to your prayers in Alnwick...

There have been a fair few prayers offered up by Debbie Cook in the past few months.

Mostly to the gods of the building trade and planning department to guide her through what had seemed like a heavenly plan – tackling the conversion of a former convent into a stylish boutique hotel in Alnwick.

After a frenzied few months, Debbie is just about ready to give thanks. The Cookie Jar (a nod to their surname), has opened up and its delights are spilling out for all to share.

She confesses, it’s been a journey.

86 www.luxe-magazine.co.uk

When she and husband Robert, who is a former chief executive of Malmaison and Hotel du Vin and now with Virgin Active, set eyes on the sale boards at St Mary’s Convent in Bailiffgate, its potential was obvious.

During his time with HdV, Robert had transformed prisons, hospitals, breweries and warehouses into desirable hotels, so the conversion of a nunnery was, to them, an easy progression.

Though Debbie hadn’t worked for 14 years, her background is in the hospitality business, and her home for the past 17 years Northumberland, so she took on the project with gusto.

The result is a beautiful building. A very blue building, for no other reason than Debbie loves blue.

The entire colour scheme running through the hotel is inky blue and it creates a striking and unique atmosphere.

Obviously we’re talking shades of blue here, but nevertheless deep and bold tones, interspersed with splashes of dramatic wallpaper, contrasting fabrics and gatherings

It has been interesting to hear the stories people have of the building and time they have spent here

of accessories which offer up a hint of the building’s past.

“It has been interesting to hear the stories people have of the building and time they have spent here,” says Debbie with a wry smile.

Until relatively recently there were still nuns calling St Mary’s home – what they would make of its new incarnation can only be imagined.

Not least the reinvention of the stunning chapel as a lavish, lovely and, dare one say it, sexy master bedroom suite.

The chapel, as Debbie calls it, ‘the Mother Superior of all suites’, is on the first floor accessed by a warren of stairs.

It is impressive, featuring all the beautiful, historic details of the former chapel, such as stained glass windows and carved wooden beams. Debbie admits to more than a few headaches as she worked with architects to create the ‘mod cons’ of a boutique hotel -

NOV/DEC17

like a walk-in shower – while keeping the strong character of the historic chapel.

So, praise-be! You will find drench showers with higher powers and a heavenly bath tub for the perfect soak in the underfloor-heated bathroom. You’ll relax in indulgent robes and lay your head on a luxurious customdesigned bed, worshipping the god of super-fast wifi and the 60-inch flat screen.

Rooms (there are 11 in the Grade II listed building) are named after local places such as Bamburgh, Alnmouth and Holy Island (of course).

With their blue hues, attention to detail is everything. Leather trims on headboards, quality fabrics and bold contrasting wallpapers give a feeling of decadence.

Sink-in beds are intended to offer up a cosy welcome to visitors dealing with the Nothumberland climate. Your own jar of home-made cookies in the room is a friendly touch.

The interior design for the entire project was led by Matt Hulme, of Dynargh Design, a renowned interior designer. Matt was the designer behind many Hotel du Vin properties, notably Newcastle, Cambridge and Edinburgh.

Using eclectic prints and textures, he creates a bold but very inviting tone for the Cookie Jar. It is defiantly dramatic and boldly blue from the moment you step inside.

The project was completed in a staggering six months and the effort has been more than worth it - full of individual character, attention to detail and bags of style. Beds have chunky throws on them. There are vintage leather cases dotted around the place, heaps of old books and artfully shambolic ‘finds’ layered up on painted bookcases. It’s all a stylishly-smart version of ‘relaxed’.

Says Debbie: “The things that are important are often the things you don’t see – like the water – every room has to be able to shower at the same time! Great toiletries too - we have Penhaligons who come and inspect before they agree to supply.

“We built (very smart) kennels outside so people can bring their dogs – this is great for shooting parties.”

The Bailiffgate Bistro will open in full next next year, but currently offers small snack plates in the residents’ lounge, breakfast

The things that are important are often the things you don’t see every room has to be able to shower at the same time! and Afternoon Tea. It’s headed up by chef and general manager, Mick Holland, known for his skill in creating great food using the best local produce. Breakfasts see Craster kippers on the menu, as well as local sausage, bacon and black pudding for the ‘full Northumbrian’. Continuing the theme, the house G&Tea Afternoon Tea includes Northumberland Hepple Gin served over ice with Fever Tree tonic and a sprig of rosemary.

Blessed by historic surroundings, a cookie’s throw from the town’s famous castle, this decadent spot has answered more than a few mini-break prayers. www.cookiejaralnwick.com

Six beautiful homes.

THE LEAS T h e

Av e n u e

M e d b u r n ,

N E 2 0

0 J D

All homes include…

A contemporary kitchen with granite worktops Integrated kitchen appliances Log burning stove Downstairs underfloor heating Bi-folding doors

Plus much more!

One exclusive location.

Your perfect brand new home is here at The Leas in Medburn. The Leas offers a choice of luxury new 4 bedroom detached homes in this exclusive location, with prices starting from £550,000

You only need 5% deposit with Help to Buy

To book your appointment call us today or visit our website to find out more...

Help to Buy

Call 033 0005 0001 or 07712 089 663 or visit mandalehomes.com

*Terms and conditions apply to all offers, full details available upon request. Images are for guidance only.

NOV/DEC17

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ADVERTORIAL

SMART

home style

On the outskirts of leafy Gosforth, nestled in the ancient woodland of beautiful Gosforth Park, you’ll discover that one of the region’s most luxurious new residential developments is starting to take shape – The Walled Gardens.

This development is the latest from North East company All Saints Living and will be situated across two walled gardens; The North Walled Garden will contain eight, four-bedroom properties that have been designed to a contemporary finish, incorporating large south facing windows maximising the capture of natural light. The Southern Walled Garden will contain a further six, five bedroom semi-detached properties. These properties will be finished in a more traditional style in order to complement the surrounding dwellings.

The Walled Garden originally served the 18th Century Brandling Hall and was, more recently, home to a garden centre and aquatics retailer. Its sale for redevelopment has supported the much-vaunted improvement programme at Newcastle Racecourse. In an area renowned for its landscaping and wildlife, the homes will be built sympathetic to their surroundings with plenty of natural light and open, green spaces.

To retain the natural look of the site when viewed from a distance, these homes will also have sedum (grass) roofs, while the six, five bedroomed properties in the southern garden will have zinc roofs, resembling those of greenhouses.

These elite homes are already a much sought after and desirable address, thanks to being situated in a stunning gated community location but also thanks to every single home having the latest Smart Home Technology features in-built, as standard.

Both North and South Gardens properties all have individual smart home packages, expertly designed and installed by award-winning North East specialists Wakefields Smarter Home Technology.

Sales Manager for Wakefields, Pete Craggs reveals: “The design remit to make these homes smart homes was to offer the luxury of easy control. We are always committed to the idea that technology should make life more enjoyable, yet simpler at the same time. Wakefields is about embracing new features while still keeping it as simple as possible. We call this Smarter Home

www.wakefields.tech

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Technology. Luxury simplified and it’s all fitted as standard.”

The Walled Gardens is a prestigious development of ‘Smart Homes’, all tailored around you and the way you want to live.

A smart lighting system that always knows when it’s needed. When you enter a room, the right lighting is automatically selected for you by mood, conditions or function.

This smart lighting control reduces the number of times you’ll find yourself having to reach for a switch – and it saves on your electricity usage too. If someone gets up in the middle of the night, when the rest of the family is asleep, you’ll be guided to the bathroom with subtle dimmed lighting. Use mood lighting with personalised scenes within a room or across the house.

Included are Smart Temperature controls which learn your habits and know whether you are in the house or not – adapting the underfloor heating, radiators and hot water to ensure maximum efficiency and continuous comfort for the whole family.

Every home is ready for entertainment, with music and television systems ready for you to enjoy whatever you want, whenever you want, wherever you want – in the highest possible quality.

You’ll discover each property can automatically open and close Blinds and curtains, based on the time of day, temperature, and weather.

There is a Smart Security system that gives access to those who need it, and keep out those who don’t. It will also send key information to your smart phone, giving you 360 protection of your home.

You’ll find a Wi-Fi network capable of managing all your wireless devices through-out the home. Being able to access your favourite online content anywhere in the property is now possible.

The Walled Gardens offers a completely automated system that links it all together.

Allowing you to pull up on the driveway and have the house welcome you home.

Wakefields Smarter Home technology will also be there from the moment the new owner picks up the keys. “Together with All Saints Living, we’ve designed the technology throughout these stunning homes to be entirely personalised. Our reputation for service is second to none, so we’re always on hand to help with anything from a forgotten Wi-Fi password to installing a new television”.

0330 111 75 76

To discover more about the inclusive Smart Technology within the Walled Gardens, visit Wakefields Newcastle showroom (within Bang & Olufsen) on Rutherford Street.

To enquire about or reserve one of these luxury properties please contact the team at Bradley Hall Estate Agents, 165 High Street, Gosforth. 0191 284 2255. www.walledgardensgosforth.co.uk

info@wakefields.tech

NOV/DEC17

Beautiful and affordable KI T C H ENS

BE DROOMS

BAT H R OOM S O R A N G ERIE S

GUA RDIA N

DOORS

R O O F S

B I- F OL D

R E P L A CE M E NT

ROO F S

WI N D O WS

D O O R S R AD I AT O R S

10th Avenue West, Team Valley, Gateshead, NE11 0HL 0191 491 3836 www.greatlook.co.uk Opposite Retail World

LUXE LOCAL

Alnmouth

This pretty-as-a-picture village is definitely worth swooning over - stop by for dreamy beachy views, cosy pub lunches and much more...

A charming seaside village and a true epitome of the Northumberland countryside, Alnmouth is treasured for its independent tea rooms, cosy pubs and its delightful ocean front walks through the sand dunes and beyond.

It’s a beautiful village to base yourself when staying in Northumberland or visiting for the day. Stone cottages, beachfront villas and Victorian terraced houses line the high street, while small boats and ‘happy to be by the sea’ pooches claim the long stretch of beach.

Whether you’re popping out with your pup, checking in for a family getaway or here to browse the brilliant pubs, shops and cafes, there’s something for everyone and its beauty is evident in every nook and cranny.

CONNECTED >> Disconnecting with the real world might just be what you love most about Alnmouth. It’s a rural retreat by the coast, but that doesn’t mean to say it doesn’t boast excellent transport links to and from other Northumberland destinations and beyond.

Alnmouth railway station is located just one mile from the village. You can get from Alnmouth to Edinburgh in just over an hour and from Alnmouth to Newcastle in under an hour on the Virgin Trains East Coast line from Edinburgh to London Kings Cross.

This cosy coastal village is just 3.5 miles from the A1, so routes both north and south are easy to reach by car, as well as other

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major routes linking to the A19 and the Northumberland coast road.

Bus routes go to Alnwick and Newcastle, while Newcastle International Airport is just a 45-minute drive. There are also several stunning walking and cycling routes nearby.

SHOP >> A village that doesn’t miss a trick. Alnmouth has that ‘away-from-it-all’ feel, but it doesn’t fall short of lovely shops, boutiques and B&Bs that really celebrate the finer things in life. The Aln Gift Shop is the place to go for something sweet to take home with you, with treats inspired by the rural, coastal location. You’ll find quality gifts, a range of cards and beautiful artworks.

Alnmouth Country Store is a traditional grocers, selling homemade, locally-sourced food and drink to take away for a beach picnic or to sit in and enjoy in the small cafe. Expect cooked meats, soups and baked goods such as seasonal pies, fluffy scones and expertly crafted cakes. They also stock a wide range of delicatessen products - perfect for at-home cooking and recipe inspiration.

Specialising in locally sourced Northumberland goods, you’ll want to take everything away with you to share with friends and family.

FOOD >> Fancy a hearty pub meal post-walk? Head up into the village and check in at The Red Lion. It’s dog-friendly, so you can pop in with your pooch and enjoy a bite to eat and a local beer or two.

If you’d prefer food to go, pick up some takeaway fish and chips from The Hope & Anchor, or pick up a perfect pie at the grocers – a food-lovers hub in the centre of the village serving local produce, scones and more moreish nibbles. Look out for the specials and try the chicken and leak pie and the sausage and red onion pie.

The Village Tearoom is a cosy spot for brunch, late lunch or Afternoon Tea. It’s rustic inside with grey, washed wooden decor and driftwood furnishings. Go here for hearty breakfasts, fresh sandwiches, creative cakes and special treats.

As well as serving takeaway fish and chips, The Hope & Anchor offers a bit of everything. It’s an Italian restaurant featuring fish dishes and local favourites sourced from the immediate area, with freshly caught

seafood from Amble Harbour and fillet steaks from Longframlington’s R Greens butchers. While the pizza and pasta offering is oh-so scrumptious, with a traditional wood-fired pizza oven and ‘like-your-mama-made’ recipes in situ, the fish and chips are a speciality. The bar is dog-friendly and a much more relaxed affair, while the restaurant is perfect for special occasion dining.

STROLL >> Where the coast meets country, Alnmouth beach is about as beautiful as it gets. Stroll along the sand dunes, dip your toes in the water or follow the mouth of the river as it bends around the village. You’ll find small boats and local fishermen working away as you go. There’s a wide stretch of beach, perfect for tiring out excitable dogs and kids alike.

You can walk a nice loop around Alnmouth, starting from the roundabout as you enter the village and heading down the hill across the golf course and towards the beach.

Stretch your legs as you make your way across the sand dunes and take in the fresh sea air as the coastline bends to reach the mouth of the river at the other side of town.

Walk up through the quaint side streets and find yourself back on the high street to explore the shops, cafes and the many delights of Alnmouth.

NOV/DEC17

LUXE LOCAL

PROPERTY WATCH WITH DUNCAN YOUNG

my local Harvey is the brains, the barista, the barman and all things brilliant about St Valery B&B in Alnmouth. He heads up the boutique B&B with his four-legged friend, Roxy.

Three good things about living here >> • Having one of the best and most beautiful beaches on the heritage coast a few minutes’ walk away.

• Walking down the high street and everyone saying hello.

• A village where everyone looks out for each other. Having lived for many years in London where I never even knew my close neighbours, it’s been wonderful living in such a small, tight-knit and friendly community.

Three places to take visitors >> • The Alnwick Castle & Gardens • Barter Books in Alnwick • Bamburgh – a beautiful beach with a stunning castle An ‘In the know’ secret >> • ‘Adventures in Aude’ located at the Old School Gallery - serving delicious food from an old Citroen Van named Audrey!

• Scott’s of Alnmouth – a chic and stylish deli/café serving wonderful local produce, as well as delicious homemade baked goodies.

• The Seafood Shack at Beaches in Alnmouth – open in the summer months Sunday to Wednesday. Grab a fresh crab sandwich or 1/2 lobster and chips to eat on the beach. www.stvaleryalnmouth.com

property: three to choose Cottage charm Beck’n’Call, Birling West Cottage is a lovely five-bedroom property in Warkworth, a picturesque village close to Northumberland’s heritage coast.

Lovingly designed and beautifully maintained, this home oozes country charm and boasts exposed stone walls, an original tiled fireplace and cute cottage characteristics throughout. £460,000 www.georgefwhite.co.uk

Style and splendour This stunning detached home in Alnwick is perfect for the growing family with contemporary elegance in mind. Royal Oak Gardens has a beautifully-styled oak and glass staircase, a superb pillared entrance porch and all the of-themoment features for that added bit of wow-factor. £675,000 www.rookmatthewssayer.co.uk

House proud A beautiful family home at Alnside Lodge, Lesbury. With bespoke design in mind, this fabulous four-bedroom property boasts a beautiful private garden, a large gravelled driveway and a private annex creating versatile living accommodation for guests. The first floor offers four fabulous bedrooms complete with en-suite bathrooms and two offering private dressing rooms. £850,000 www.wearesignature.co.uk

NOV/DEC17

MARKET ON THE MOVE? Writing this article in mid October, I very much hope that the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement, due at the end of November, will address some of the concerns of the property industry.

The Council of Mortgage Lenders’ statistics show a very flat housing market and only modest growth since the beginning of 2017. First time buyers are continuing to rise in numbers but transactions are running around 7% lower than last year.

Also, since Buy to Let taxation penalties came into force in 2016, the number of transactions has dropped by more than 30% in the country.

In the North East we have seen slightly better figures than the national results.

What is clear is that we need to stimulate the housing market throughout all price levels and not just at first time buyer prices.

The current Stamp Duty gives exemption for houses up to £125,000 in value and thereafter begins a fairly hefty level of taxation, which needs to be reduced.

Due to the high taxation at the top of the housing market, many vendors considering selling are holding back - this is causing a bottleneck for properties being released into the marketplace for redevelopment and modernising.

In effect, many of the homeowners who are looking to downsize are holding on to their properties for longer because prices are poor and demand is low.

We must encourage this end of the market to move if we are to give complete freedom throughout all price levels.

First time buyers are a vital part of our economy. The current Help to Buy equity loan schemes are working very well and need further encouragement to continue the good work.

The ongoing challenge of ‘hybrid’ estate agents vs the traditional high street estate agent continues to show considerable variance in quality of service.

I have been amazed recently at the number of transactions which have proceeded with either low-fee or ‘hybrid’ agents who generally charge fixed fees of £500-£1500 upfront, rather than being target related and paid upon the sale of the property.

I was shocked in recent weeks to see a house listed in one of the popular areas of Newcastle with a low cost estate agent and how that house subsequently lost over 10% of its value. I put this down to the inability of the agent to know local market factors that would affect this property’s sale.

When considering an estate agent’s fee, it is important to make it target-related and, paid on results. I’ve never quite understood why people think someone will work hard for you if they are pre-paid for a service, rather than paid when the sale completes. There is no incentive for an agent to sell a property if they have been paid at the very outset. It simply becomes a transaction number with no downside or penalty to the person who has imposed it.

Traditional high street estate agents are paid on their results. I think more agents should be paid either on the time it takes to sell a house or the level of valuation that they achieve compared to their estimate at the beginning.

Too many estate agents are valuing at 10-30% higher than the final sale.

I believe that, in many cases, this is negligent and that vendors should be able to penalise an agent for them for inaccuracy, especially when a short period of time passes between the valuation point and the actual selling level.

Professional advice does not come cheaply. Professional advice does not come without knowledge and expertise specific to a local marketplace.

In a housing market and an economy that is somewhat fragile, it is essential that those who are seriously interested in moving seek good advice.

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

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4

Brunton Square Brunton Lane, Gosforth

2

Representing one of the first resales at Brunton Square, this stunning, stone detached house is beautifully located. The extensive list of improvements and luxury additions carried out by the owners is highly impressive and the property is presented to the very best standards.

Price Guide: £795,000 Ashleigh Sundin ashleigh.sundin@sandersonyoung.co.uk rare! Office: 0191 223 3500 From Sanderson Young

www.sandersonyoung.co.uk

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5

The Farmhouse Dodley Farm, Stamfordham

4

A fabulous, period, Northumbrian farmhouse with grounds of 2.46 acres, in a magnificent location with stunning views to the south overlooking a lake. The property includes an annexe cottage which could potentially be let out independently or combined with the original farmhouse.

Price Guide: £695,000 Ashleigh Sundin ashleigh.sundin@sandersonyoung.co.uk rare! Office: 0191 223 3500 From Sanderson Young

www.sandersonyoung.co.uk

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BLACK WOOD, WYNYARD

£720,000

A deceptively spacious five bedroom home with a pleasant aspect overlooking woodland, and a large garden with feature fire pit, decking a bbq and hot tub. The interior is presented to a very high standard and features Travertine flooring throughout the ground floor.

WOODSIDE HOUSE, HARPERLEY

£749,995

Located approximately 20 minutes drive from historic Durham City, Newcastle airport and the city centre, Woodside House is a combination of a period five bedroom property with 21st century luxury and layout, with further accommodation located in a separate annexe.

www.fineandcountry.com

Contact: 01740 645444

Contact: 0191 384 2277

local, regional, national and international specialists in property marketing

Durham 0191 384 2277

Darlington 01325 488 619

Wynyard 01740 645 444

info@durhamfineandcountry.co.uk

info@durhamfineandcountry.co.uk

info@wynyardfineandcountry.co.uk

WATERSIDE WAY, HARTLEPOOL A spectacular three storey, seven bedroom property with unique features and character wrapped up in a supersize home with golf course views, 7 Waterside Way is finished to the highest quality throughout.

VANE CLOSE, WYNYARD This fabulous five bedroom family home with a superb private garden and stylish interior is located Wynyard village, just minutes from Wynyard golf course. The large plot ensures the property is set back from the road with gardens encircling the Georgian-style house.

creative and intelligent marketing of individual and country property

£665,000 Contact: 0191 384 2277

£499,950 Contact: 01740 645444

PLAYING OUT

EXTRA TIME with George Friend The Boro defender prepares for a Luxe Christmas with shopping tips and festive gifts for him and for her Shopping! Whether you love it or hate it, at Christmas it’s often stressful and exhausting.

I’ve done the hard work for you with some top tips for him and for her that might be worth considering over the festive period...

for him

PACK UP IN STYLE >>

FIND YOUR FRAGRANCE >> Amouage Beloved Man, Maison Francis Kurkdjian OUD Silk Mood, Creed Aventus and Creed Vetiver Aftershave. Yes it’s an obvious one, but always appreciated. The two Creed fragrances are my favourites - they only need a small splash each day. I have team-mates past and present who highly recommend the Amouage and Kurkdjian fragrances, too. Choose any of these top colognes and he won’t be disappointed. >> www.selfridges.com

Sandqvist Grand Canvas Apollo Backpack black This simple and functional design leaves this backpack looking polished and plush. This Swedish brand can be used for work or worn casually. >> £175 www.sandqvist.net

SOMETHING SPECIAL

SOUND EFFECTS >>

DUTCH LOVE >>

Bose QuietComfort 35 wireless headphones II The high price tag is fully justified.

These superb headphones make hours of travelling on the team coach fly by. Acoustic Noise Cancelling technology, 20-hour battery life, combined with built in Google Assistant ensure that Bose remain the best on the market in my opinion. >> £329.95 www.bose.co.uk

Mininitials One, two or three initial men’s bracelet. A Dutch company recommended to me by a former teammate. Although selling jewellery predominantly for women, their unique and individual style can be personalised to suit a more masculine taste. The range boasts different colour straps attached to yellow, white or rose gold. >> From £235 www.minitials.nl

SOMETHING SPECIAL

for her

PERFECT PERSONALISATION >> HA Designs Everyone loves new PJs at Christmas time. HA Designs offer personalised luxury sleepwear - the perfect gift for a loved one. Visit the website and enjoy the endless possibilities on offer. Owned by a businesswoman who lives here in the North East, HA Designs has a fantastic range of sophisticated products worn by celebrities. You’ll find everything from nightwear and phone cases, to leather goods, candles and travel accessories. >> Nightwear from £40 www.hadesignsltd.com

STAR STUDDED >> Valentino Rockstud Leather bracelet Highly fashionable and distinctive, these iconic bracelets come in a variety of colours to choose from. >> £120 www.selfridges.com

PUCKER UP >> FESTIVE FRAGRANCE >> Diptyque candles and diffusers The Parisian company sell a wide selection of beautiful fragrances, filling your home with a delightful aroma over the festive period. The spicy Pomander candle is a favourite for Christmas reminiscent of oranges sprinkled with cloves and cinnamon. >> From £24 www.diptyqueparis.co.uk

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Charlotte Tilbury, The Dolce Vita Set Having previously bought this for my wife, Kerri, I found it easy to select the right makeup in store, best suited for her. By all accounts, it’s the perfect choice for any upcoming parties over Christmas and New Year. >> £165 www.charlottetilbury.com

NOV/DEC17

CHAP CHAT

CAMOSHITA Double-breasted wool blazer £765; www.seflridges.com

HUGO BOSS BLACK Cobra shell bomber jacket £475; www.harveynichols.com

COMME DES GARÇONS Amazingreen eau de parfum 100ml £90; www.conranshop.co.uk

ROBERTS Revival Uno DAB/DAB+/FM Digital radio with alarm £159.95; www.johnlewis.com

ASPINAL OF LONDON Classic 5oz leather hip flask £49; www.harrods.com

Man kit

GUCCI Black bee-embroidered wool blend scarf £360; www.harveynichols.com

Winter warmers, festive favourites and techy stuff to see you through the colder months

VERSACE Dylan blue 100ml gift set £65.99; www.psyche.co.uk

SAINT LAURENT Black crocodile-effect leather wallet £250; www.harveynichols.com OLYMPUS PEN E-PL8 Compact system camera £549.95; www.johnlewis.com

SMYTHSON Burlington small grained leather backpack. £795; www.selfridges.com

THE DALMORE King Alexander III £170; www.harrods.com

NOV/DEC17

COACH Campus brown leather backpack £650; www.harveynichols.com

JO MALONE LONDON English Oak & Redcurrant cologne 100ml £88; www.seflridges.com

KREAFUNK aGem in-ear headphones, plum £35; www.amara.com

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A CUT ABOVE

WELL

GROOMED

Whether you’re looking for an on-trend trim, a tamed beard or stand-out stubble, the North East is packed with top spots for male pampering and preening. Chloé Laing picks out some must-visits

AGENT BARBERING SALOON >> This family-run salon is an all-male modern hairdressing shop, specialising in everything from classic barbering to contemporary cutting. Owner Mike Forbes has been rocking and rolling his way through decades of styles, making men’s hair more fashionable since 1964 and, with a couple of famous faces along the way, you know your hair is in good hands. Alongside his son Ben, the creative duo’s quirky character is reflected in the shop’s black and red Belmont chairs, 70s-style light blue furnishings and a juke box ready that plays all the classic tunes.

T. 01642 271 999 A. 63 Station Road, Redcar, TS10 1RD F. @agentbarberingsaloon MR. TILLY’S MALE GROOMING >> Take some time for yourself and swing by Mr. Tilly’s Male Grooming in the heart of Newcastle. Owner Phillip Tilly makes you feel right at home with the fridges stocked up with beer, cool tunes playing out and the TV on to keep you relaxed as you indulge in some first-rate male grooming. Pop in for a stylish cut, razor finish, sleek shave, refreshing facial or detox scrub, where leather upholstery and redbrick walls set the tone for modern male treatments.

T. 0191 230 2374 A. 15 High Bridge Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1EW F. @MrTillys

MENU MALE GROOMING >> MENu knows that men want to feel their very best too - and so they make male grooming a part of normal life with an endless list of luxurious treatments. Expect full body massages, waxing, facials, deluxe hot and wet towel shaves and on-trend cuts - all of which will have you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated in no time.

T. 0191 259 2459 A. 66 Front Street, Tynemouth, NE30 4BT W. www.menu-malegrooming.co.uk

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TRAMPAS THE MEN’S ROOM >> Trampas provides the men of the North East with a luxurious, spa-like experience. Whether you want a head-to-toe makeover or a sleek shave, there’s something for you at their Durham shop. Treatments include cuts and shaves, waxing, body trimming, deep tissue massages, aesthetic treatments and male mani-pedis. Relax in their quirky shop with a coffee, a flick through magazines and your own personal digital TV. T. 0191 384 4443 A. Owengate House, Saddler Square, Durham, DH1 3HB W. www.trampas.co.uk

ALPHA MALE GROOMING >> If you’re looking for a sophisticated style truly unique to you, Alpha Male Grooming is the place to be. Taking your shape, your features and your flair into account, the team here will tailor their offering to suit you. An Alpha Male is all about character; doing the best you can do to make you stand out and look good. With cuts, massages, manicures, pedicures, waxing and overall grooming on offer, you’ll leave this spot feeling a new and improved you.

T. 0191 285 2955 A. 1 Henry Street, Gosforth, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE3 1DQ W. www.alphamalegrooming.co.uk

RUDE GROOMING >> Celebrating ten years in the business, Rude Grooming specialises in men’s hairdressing and traditional wet shaving. It’s sleek, stylish and offers a tailored service to suit the individual, all in a cool, contemporary atmosphere. With several options for ‘The Barnet’ including clipper, shampoo and style; as well as options for ‘The Beard’ with reshape and oils available, you can get the whole grooming experience under one roof on Linthorpe Road, Middlesbrough.

T. 01642 211 221 A. 153 Linthorpe Road, Middlesbrough, TS1 4AG W. www.rudegrooming.com

PATRICK FORSTER >> For the men who want more than just a quick trim. Patrick Forster’s barbershop is a place where gents can hang out, unwind and be pampered in their very own way. It’s a stylish, but very down-to-earth salon where clients can kick back and enjoy themselves; whether that’s with a personalised playlist, chatting about football fixtures or firing up the Xbox.

You’ll leave feeling relaxed and refreshed with a sharp new do.

T. 0191 222 1296 A. 67 High Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 6BX W. www.patrick-forster.co.uk

NOV/DEC17

CHRISTMAS GIFTS AVAIL ABLE NOW

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01642 888333

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G E T 1 0 % O F F YO U R O R D E R U S I N G C O D E ‘ LUX E 1 0 ’ W H E N YO U C H EC KO U T * T&Cs apply. Not applicable to sale items. Some brands may be excluded from this offer. Code may only be used once online. Not valid in-store.

MOTOR MAN

ATUL MALHOTRA Atul Malhotra is a company director with the Newcastle-based familyowned Malhotra Group.

A family and friends man, Atul is a new father to fivemonth-old daughter, Leila Lily, and has just celebrated his fifth wedding anniversary to wife Natalie...

CHILDHOOD CAR CRUSH >> Ferrari

TRACKS OF YOUR TYRES (MUSIC) >> John Legend or Coldplay

WHAT’S IN THE GARAGE NOW >> Two Rolls Royce, including a Wraith Black Badge, Range Rover, Bentley

DREAM ROAD TRIP >> South of France and then to Italy

IF YOU COULD OWN ANY CAR >> Bugatti CAPTAIN SLOW OR JEREMY? >> Jeremy WHO SHOULD PRESENT TOP GEAR? >> Keith Lemon!

WHO WITH >> My wife and new daughter of course!

MEMORABLE CAR MOMENTS >> A track day with Rolls Royce WHAT’S IN THE GLOVE BOX? >> Nothing just yet, the Wraith is only two weeks old HOW CLEAN IS YOUR CAR? >> Very. OCD clean freak here!

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NOV/DEC17

VA VA VOOM

Supercar spot Teesside’s brand new Porsche Centre has opened its doors. Time for the region’s need-for-speed motor enthusiasts to head to Stockton for their speed-thrills

NOV/DEC17

The cutting edge centre, on Concorde Way, near Stockton, is showing off its stuff after eight months of redevelopment, which has seen the building transform into a stunning 35,707 squarefoot showroom that has capacity for 15 new Porsche vehicles and 40 Porsche pre-owned vehicles.

Serving customers across the North East, including County Durham and North Yorkshire, it demonstrates a major investment in the Porsche brand and in the Teesside community, adding to UK and Ireland’s current 37-strong Porsche Centre Network.

Whether you’re searching for a new set of wheels, looking to service your own car, or simply in the mood to swoon over an impressive selection of luxury models, the new centre offers something for everyone.

Stop by to receive the full range of Porsche services, including new and Porsche Approved Pre-owned sales, servicing and parts (local delivery and collection ensures any servicing or repairs are conducted with minimal fuss), a service loan fleet and a full range of Porsche demonstrators, as well as a variety of new facilities and improved services.

Highlights include a nine bay workshop, an MOT bay, a four wheel alignment bay, a ‘driver assist’ calibration bay and Porsche Direct Dialogue bay, supporting quick, on-the-spot diagnosis, an executive lounge area, a ‘kids’ zone’, complete with iPads and gaming pod to keep little ones entertained while you browse, a ‘Smart Energy’ building management system and full LED lighting.

“Our brand-new Porsche Centre Teesside is one of the most impressive and advanced Porsche Centres in Europe,” says centre principal, Ross Jameson.

“The centre’s new look and state-of-the-art facilities are exemplary of Porsche’s brand

and dedication to customer service. We are lucky enough to be able to boast the only two-storey viewing area in the Porsche network for our Direct Dialogue Bay, which really makes for an exceptional experience for our customers.”

“Myself and my team are thrilled to be able to showcase Porsche to Teesside and the surrounding areas and we look forward to welcoming customers into our new home for all their Porsche requirements, whether that’s sales, servicing or parts.”

John Tordoff, chief executive of JCT600, adds: “As one of the most prestigious marques in the world, we are proud of our long-established relationship with Porsche.

“Having spent two years searching for the right site on Teesside to showcase these stunning sports cars, we are pleased to have been able to find this high-profile, accessible location which will complement our Leeds, Newcastle and Sheffield Porsche Centres.”

2017 has been an exciting year for Porsche, with the announcement of the new Panamera Sport Turismo. Debuting a new style, the model is the first of its kind in the sports saloon segment, boasting an unrivalled dynamic between career, family leisure and driving pleasure. Its 4+1 seat concept, with increased legroom and headroom and large luggage compartment offer excellent day-to-day usability, making it a real one-to-watch.

The centre combined the launch of the Panamera Sport Truism with its official opening on 13 October, which was attended by over 370 guests. For pictures see our Social Diary, page.

Porsche Centre Teesside, Concorde Way, Preston Farm Business Park, Stockton-onTees, TS18 3TA For more information, visit www.porscheteesside.co.uk

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REVVED UP

Bob Arora

AT THE WHEEL

Italian takeaway Alfas have always been about spirit and speed - the range-topping Gulia Quadrifoglio is one great playdate

Any petrolhead will tell you that until you’ve owned an Alfa you aren’t a proper petrolhead. Alfas have never had the best reputation for build quality or reliability but they have made some stunning-looking cars that also drive really well. As you may expect, I’ve owned one Alfa; I bought a 156 when they came out. My car was 3-litre petrol and when you started it, the car just sounded amazing. My car was surprisingly reliable but that didn’t stop buttons falling off the seats and trim coming away all over the shop! That said, when you drove the car, it just put a smile on your face; the performance was up there with its German rivals, even if the build quality wasn’t.

Another thing Alfa has is a very loyal customer base; they are a very passionate bunch who love all things Alfa. The car I’ve been driving this month is the new Gulia. When I was given the choice of driving the diesel or the range-topping Quadrifoglio, it was a no brainer. The Gulia is rear-wheel drive and this is no doubt to take on its German rivals, BMW and Mercedes. The last Alfa that was rear wheel drive

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was the 75 which ceased production 25 years ago.

The Fiat Group, which owns Alfa, is investing over £5 billion to make Alfa great again. After driving the Gulia I can say this investment is starting to pay off and they have also entered the very lucrative SUV market with the Stevlio. I haven’t driven that yet, but watch this space!

The Quadrifoglio is clearly aimed at the Mercedes AMG, Audi and its RS model and, lastly, at the BMW M range. The designers have done a great job and the car really looks the part with carbon fibre all over the place - and the impressive 19” alloys really help make the car look extremely sporty.

Alfa has used aluminium in key areas to keep the body weight down and, in doing so, the car has excellent power to weight ratio of 318bhp per tonne. The 2.9litre V6 is turbocharged and it pumps out 503bhp.

The engine has been inspired by Ferrari’s 3.9litre V6 which I’m sure isn’t a coincidence at all. The car gets to 60mph in under four seconds and its top speed is 191mph, driven sensibly the car should return most owners 30mpg. All UK Quadrifoglio’s come with an 8-speed automatic gearbox and 19” alloys as standard. The car I drove came with the optional ceramic brakes and Sparco seats. These body hugging seats are great and they make you feel like a Formula One driver. They do take up a bit of room for rear passengers and they are priced at £2,950 so I can’t see many owners opting for them.

The Alcantara-rimmed steering wheel looked and felt great.

My favourite bit was the starter button. I know. I’ve said it before but simple things and all that. The car’s ventilation dials and buttons are very simple and straightforward to use, its SatNav and communication system is also on par with its German rivals. The graphics and screen is a little bit cheap-looking for me, but as with all Alfas, it’s all about the engine and the drive. The materials used in the car are good, especially with a good scattering of leather, Alcantara and carbon fibre and make the interior feel like quite a special place to be. The rear seats don’t fold which doesn’t make it very practical at all. The boot opening is quite small, which doesn’t help at when loading the car with cases or

large amounts of shopping.

But the fun is in the driving.

The car’s exhaust note sounds really good and throaty.

When you change down via the gears the exhaust pops and crackles like no one’s business.

I know this is very childish, but I found myself looking for tunnels just to hear the car’s soundtrack of those pops and crackles. But beware in race mode - it turns off the traction control and this can make the car a real handful if you’re not careful.

After driving the Gulia I can honestly say Alfa is back on track and in the hot seat (pardon the pun) for good times again. The car looks and sounds amazing and it will be quite a rare sight on the roads.

Priced at £59k this car really ticks all the boxes for me and I’d have one over its German rivals all day long.

Car courtesy of Richard Hardie Alfa Newcastle.

NOV/DEC17

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Official fuel economy figures for the new BMW X3 range: Urban 42.8-52.3mpg (6.6-5.4l/100km). Extra Urban 49.6-58.9mpg (5.7-4.8l/100km).

Combined 47.1-56.5mpg (6-5l/100km). CO2 emissions: 158-132g/km.

Figures are obtained in a standardised test cycle. They are intended for comparisons between vehicles and may not be representative of what a user achieves under usual driving conditions.

Model shown is the new BMW X3 M40i which is expected to be available from December 2017. Fuel figures for this model are not yet available.

WOW FACTOR

Range Rover’s latest model, the Velar, has arrived to fill the space between Sport and Evoque. Perfectly placed to do just that, says Bob Arora

Velar makes a splash To say Range Rover can’t do any wrong at the moment has to be the understatement of the year!

From being a company that just produced one car, they are successfully launching cars in every market segment possible at the moment. They successfully launched the Range Rover Sport and then the equally popular Evoque, both cars have sold exceptionally well and the magic looks set to continue with the new Range Rover Velar.

The name Velar was first used on badging of the original 1970’s Range Rover so it’s quite apt they’ve bought the

name back. I managed to get a glimpse of this car quite a while ago, and it really has the wow factor with its stunning styling and recessed door handles amongst other fine features.

The car fits between the Evoque and the Sport, who knew one existed? I didn’t but with this car I’m sure they’ll have boat-loads of new customers. The designers have given the car a short front but a longer rear overhang. Add a sloping roofline and this car really has presence.

I drove the 3litre Diesel which by all accounts will be the best-selling car in the range, this is despite all things diesel

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being bad news right now.

We were actively encouraged by the Government to buy them but now they have the same stigma as - smokers people prefer to leave them out in the cold.

It’s a real shame really because diesels have not only great torque but they also have the added benefit of great economy. Having driven the 2litre diesel recently, I’d be tempted to order that engine over the more expensive larger one any day.

Performance ranges from a top speed of 130mph to 155mph and 0-60mph acceleration ranges from 8.4-seconds to 5.3-seconds, which isn’t bad for a car weighing nearly two tonnes.

Both V6 petrol and diesel engines get the benefit of air suspension and this really helps cars fitted with the massive 22” alloy wheels. The car is actually based on the same platform as the F-Pace, and, as with this model, aluminium has been used extensively to try to make the car not only lighter but more agile too.

The very fact it’s much more expensive than the Jag hasn’t stopped the army of buyers who’ve ordered the Velar. It looks really smart, especially in the range topping Dynamic Spec and with the all-important black pack, this car just looks the part!

When you step inside the Velar you realise this car is a real game changer for all of the car’s rivals.

The top screen controls the navigation, phone and radio, the screen at the bottom controls the temperature, along with the heated and cooling seats. The car I drove also had massaging seats.

The car’s suspension settings are also controlled by the bottom screen. The speedo and rev counter are both digital and they really ooze quality!

As you’d expect from a car of this calibre, the plastics are decent quality as is the leather. There’s also the option of a new more expensive material from a company called Kavadrat - but I’m not sure how many brave buyers have opted for this?

The car I drove was fitted with autonomous braking, lane assist, blind spot assist and the excellent matrix-led headlights. With all this help it sounds like the car is capable of driving itself.

When you step inside the Velar you realise this car is a real game changer for all of the car’s rivals

It was also fitted with park assist, which was quite handy as the car’s rear screen is quite tricky to see out of, especially with the thick pillars at the back. The Velar is no way as agile as the Porsche Macan; it feels a bit bulky and awkward even when driven in dynamic mode.

Driving the car in this mode does stiffen up the suspension and it also makes the gear changes and throttle response much sharper too.

Maybe it’s to do with my age, but I much preferred driving the car in comfort mode, it just makes the car much more relaxed and a more enjoyable place to be.

The car has good headroom in the front and rear but legroom is limited for passengers in the rear. The rear seat can be split in a 40-20-40 configuration and the boot space is a decent 673 litres; that was more than enough space for a few suitcases - and weekend bags galore.

The Velar is priced from £44K, but once you start ticking the boxes on the spec sheets, most cars will cost well over £70K which is dangerously close to the Sport, which let’s face it, is a bigger more practical car.

While I drove this car, loads of people came over and asked questions about it, the consensus was that it is not only very good looking, despite its rather high price, it’s going to sell like hot cakes and Land Rover will have another cash cow on its hands.

Car courtesy of Stratstone Land Rover Sunderland.

NOV/DEC17

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INFINITI NEWCASTLE MIDDLE ENGINE LANE, SILVERLINK BUSINESS PARK, NEWCASTLE, TYNE AND WEAR NE28 9NZ 03300 960866 | www.infinitinewcastle.com

NOV/DEC17

www.luxe-magazine.co.uk 105

TRAVEL FOR GROUPS

In association with:

luxe:looks North East Ladies’ Day, Ramside Hall, Sedgefield

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!

Middlesbrough & Teesside Philanthropic Foundation Ball, Wynyard Marquee Below > Jane Quaintrell, Selena Blain, Hayley O’Neill

Below > Toyah Wilcox, Elissa Baker

Above > Dorothy Gill, Hannah Larkin, Barbara Fawcett, Julie Larkin Above > Coreen Porter, Diane Scott

Below > Anna Cole, Clair Hudson

Above > Andy Preston, Alex Cochrane, Steve Cochrane, Emily Bentley Below > Jane Quaintell, Ben Quaintell

Above > Sandra Johnson, Martin Johnson, Elaine McLaineWood Above > Kerry Monk, Hannah Davison

Above > Vicky Barber, Jessica Maine, Lotty Reeves Below > Pam Royle, Audrey Royle

Below > Andrew McKie, Fiona McKie

Above > Kathryn Armstrong, Nadine Robinson, Tanya Garland

Above > Kathryn Armstrong, Jayne Van Geffen, Mike Van Geffen, Tanya Garland, Ken Robinson, Nadine Robinson, Helen Hogben, Simon Hogben Above > Clare Willett, Jonathan Willett

Above > Ann Dicken, Theresa Carling

Oyster Festival, Hardwick Hall Hotel, Sedgefield Below > Claire Clattenburg, Judith Jenkins

Below > Stephanie Mustoe, Faye Oughton

Above > Shelly Dunion, Peter Dunion, Lisa Dudley, Chris Foy

Above > Sonya Atkins, Sarah Carr, Alex Wilby, Ellie FisherThompson, Emma Glover Above > Rebecca Shields, Craig Shields

(0191) 338 8188 halodrive.co.uk 106 www.luxe-magazine.co.uk

Fizz

Above > Kim Henderson, Vickie Grierson

FESTIVE &

Group travel from the North East in our eight-seater executive vehicle plus two bottles of prosecco From £180 return.

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING & FESTIVE MARKETS

E D I N B U R G H / L E E DS / YO R K

NOV/DEC17

SOCIAL LIFE

Swarovski Store Opening, Middlesbrough Below > Courtney Simpson, Amelia Lily, Emily Train

Below > Jean Szili, Aranka Bradley

Below > Sarah Adams, Imogen Adams

Above > Courtney Simpson, Eleanor Wratten, Catherine Pearson, Michelle Pearson, Jade Affleck, Emily Train

Above > Amelia Lily, Sophie Chang

Wynyard Park Race Day for Alice House, Sedgefield Racecourse

Above > Amelia Lily, Eleanor Wratten

Mill Volvo Golf Day, Close House, Northumberland

Below > Martin Bennison, Craig Pinder, Matt Johnson, Michael Leather, Rob Elton

Below > Les Johnson, Alan Rutter, Eddy Cody, Peter Scott

Above > Abbie Taylor, Ellie Corney, Jacqui Corney

Above > Jeff Tabb, Steve Curran, Matt Barker, Simon Staples

Below > Tracy Woodall, Greg Hildreith, Julie Hildreith, Carol Sennet

Below > Simon Hewitson, Willard Wright, Alastair Gibson, Paul Salmon

Above > David Robinson, Brian Flynn, John Hall, Ian Rogerson

Above > Tracy Woodall, Mary Musgrave

Below > Nigel Stanwix, Alison Stanwix, Paul Potts, John Thompson

Below > Chris Musgrave, Alan Sykes, David Garside

Above > Bob Holmes, Robin Cairns, Bob Nicholson, Iain Leighton

Above > Anne Kirkwood, Derek Watt, Wendy Watt, Lynden Watt, Peter Watt

Porsche Teesside, Showroom Launch, Preston Farm, Eaglescliffe Below > Sheelagh Whittaker, Colin Whittaker

Below > Shuja Khan, Faaiz Khan

Below > Albert Walsh, Kenny Robinson, Phil Graham

Above > Julie White, Chris White, Olly White Above > Garth Sliufko, Olivia Sliufko

get together with the girls NOV/DEC17

Above > John Hallworth, Gillian Lewis

Group travel from the North East in our eight-seater executive vehicle plus two bottles of prosecco. From £180 return.

EDINBURGH / LEEDS / YORK

Conditions apply

www.luxe-magazine.co.uk 107

SOCIAL LIFE

COCO £4 Million Celebration Event, Newcastle Below > John Devine, Sandra Kullar, Dr Peter Warburton CBE

Below > Allison Curbishley, Fred Howie, Steve Cram CBE

Above > Holly Nelson, Isaac Lidaywa, Steve Cram, Bradley French

Below > Bradley French, Helen Cadzow, Craig Morgan

Above > Linda Hitman CEO, Lisa Liddell, Dr Eleanor Spencer-Regan

Barclays Gatsby Ball for CHUF, Gosforth Marriot Hotel

Berrys Golf Day, Close House, Northumberland

Below > Brydon Carse, Ellie-Lea Hall

Below > Geoff Thompson, Andrea Thompson, Carole Stonehouse, Phil Lynagh

Above > Graham Wylie, Mike Browne, Paul Mackings, Jim Hibbert Above > Helen Graham, Mark Graham

Above > Andy Johnston, Annessa Rebair

Below > Dave Purves, Gill Walton

Below > Ian Brown, Andrew Winney, Trudy Winney, Martin Owen

Below > Vanessa Wickens, Jason Wickens

Above > Steve Stone, John Harris, Jonathan Lupton, Steve Lightfoot Below > Colin Wilson, Franco Graziani, Mark Parkinson, David Ripley

Above > Denise Collins, Suzanne Smith, Shannon Hands Below > Steve Thompson, Andrea Erskine, Harriott Edgar, Phil Barron

Above > Chris Gowland, Jamie Gamble, Iain Morrison, Michael Sage

Red Sky Ball, White Party for CHUF, Ramside Hall, Durham Below > Sonia Hawes, Eve Hawes, Lynsey Foster

Above > Emma Petrucci, Sergio Petrucci

(0191) 338 8188 halodrive.co.uk 108 www.luxe-magazine.co.uk

Below > Debbie Dixon, Sharon Hall, Sam Moralee

Above > Maddie Costigan, Amanda Bell

Fizz

Below > Kay Graham, Aimee Wilson

Above > Ben Wilson, Jo Senior

FESTIVE &

Group travel from the North East in our eight-seater executive vehicle plus two bottles of prosecco From £180 return.

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING & FESTIVE MARKETS

E D I N B U R G H / L E E DS / YO R K

NOV/DEC17

Psyche Clothing 35th Birthday Celebration, Middlesbrough Below > Daisy Parkinson, Tony Parkinson, Gill Parkinson, Isabel Parkinson

Fizz

FESTIVE &

Below > Andy Skyrme, Katy Jo Benson

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING & FESTIVE MARKETS Above > Brian Echlin, Jordon Tyrrell

Above > Steve Cochrane, Tony Parkinson Below > Laura Robson, Helen Oliver, Courtney Doyle, Emma Lane

Above > Andrew Stonehouse, Angela Atkin, Rachel Hill, Christopher Percival

Tilly Bailey & Irvine Law Firm Golf Day, Wynyard Below > Daniel Potter, Chris Duggan, Matthew Smith, Matthew Waters

Below > Richard Robson, Peter Hodgson, Chris Knight, Andy Lawe

Group travel from the North East in our eight-seater executive vehicle plus two bottles of prosecco.

From £180 return E D I N B U R G H / L E E DS / YO R K

Above > Mark Dobing, Andy Brown, Paul Stevenson, Dominic O’Rourke

Return trip includes one pick-up point and three drop-offs (within a mile radius)

Below > Les Haywood, Dick Anderson, Jaonne Cowie, John Ellwood, Jeff Hind

Pick up 8.30am, return 9pm Conditions apply

Above > Andrew Moorby, Rod Dales, John Walters, Daniel Muirhead

Above > David Allenson, Iain Townsend, Paul Rennolds, James Dale

Institute of Directors event, Aston Martin, Newcastle Below > Christopher Wilkins, Jim Jordan

Below > Jim Harron, Daniel Cameron Roe, Therese Liddle, Nevil Tynemouth

Above > Malcom Follos, Gurpreet Saggu

Above > Chris Robson, John Molloy

Above > Gurpreet Saggu, Peter Neal Below > Lord Terence Davenport, David Scordino

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

NOV/DEC17

CALL FOR MORE DETAILS

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PARTING SHOT

Warming>> Hoping the gentle glow of festive merriment comes your way this Christmas. Greetings from all at Luxe. Image: www.nrphotography.co.uk

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NOV/DEC17

CHRISTMAS 2017

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NOV/DEC17